bevo hooks strong - The Villager Newspaper
Transcription
bevo hooks strong - The Villager Newspaper
Presorted Standard U.S. Postage Paid Austin, Texas Permit No. 01949 TPA TEXAS PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION TheAustinVillager.com This paper can be recycled Vol. 41 No.34 Phone: 512-476-0082 Email: [email protected] Austin Says Goodbye to Legend RAPPIN’ Tommy Wyatt Welcome to Austin, Coach Strong!! Unless you have been in a coma for the last week, you know that the University of Texas has just hired a new football coach to replace coach Mack Brown. The new coach is Charlie Strong, former head coach at the University of Louisville. And while Louisville is known as a basketball school, Strong has had at least 11 wins in each of the last two seasons and a number of other accomplishments. But, now he will take on one of his greatest challenges of his 31 year coaching career. And that is not just winning games for The University of Texas (UT), but he will also have the challenge of making the UT Boosters happy. And that will be a greater chore than winning games on the field. He has already had a taste of that. Red McComb, one of the universities strong supporters has already come out to criticize the decision. And there are others waiting in the wings. You can believe that McComb is not the only booster who is not happy with the decision. Coach Strong will be under a microscope next season. U T fans do not take kindly to their school not winning conference championships or lack of consideration for the big show. However, he will have the support of President Bill Powers and newly hired Athletic Director Steve Patterson. Powers recently took on the U T Board of Regents who were threatening to remove him and he won that fight. He has also supported Gregg Vincent in his support of the minority communities of the city who have long been treated as outsiders in the city. Under the leadership of Powers and Vincent, these communities are beginning to feel like they can give their full support to UT. Coach Strong will have the full support of the Austin community in his effort to move UT back to the front in both the Big 12 Conference and the National Championship. AUSTIN, TX - On Christmas day of 2013, Austin, Texas lost a Legend. Rev. Dr. Marvin C. Griffin passes away at the age of 90. For more than 4 decades, Griffin has been a leader in the Austin community as a Pastor, School Board official, and community activist. He was the pastor of the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church for 42 years. He was elected to the Austin School Board early in his career in Austin. During his tenure, he became the first Black President of the Board. He was a community leader known for participation in all areas of the community. Under Griffin’s leadership, Ebenezer founded the East Austin Economic Development Corporation. Through this organization, much of the foun- dation was laid for the redevelopment of East Austin. Ebenezer also expanded it Day Care and Child Development center, built an office building, and a Senior Citizen Housing development. Griffin and a group of East Austin citizens formed the East 11th Street Village Association. This group wrote the plans that changed the zoning for E. 11th Street that led to the redevelopment of the street and surrounding area. He was a statewide political activist. He worked with the United Political Action (UPO) group on political campaigns. He was appointed by Gov. John B. Connally to the Texas Southern University Board of Regents. Griffin was delegated to the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. January 10, 2014 INSIDE Manor ISD places 1st in Texas scholar attendance face off. See EXCEL Page 2 Inspiring speakers commemorate Dr. King’s legacy of peace and unity. See ORATORY Page 6 Rev. Dr. Marvin C. Griffin Griffin, a state and national religious leader was laid to rest on Saturday, January 4, 2014. He was preceded in death by his wife Lois and daughter Gaynelle Griffin Jones. Griffin is survived by two daughters, Marva Griffin Carter and Ria Griffin, and a host of family members and friends. 21 year vet O’Brien, named head coach in NFL franchise. See TEXANS Page 7 BEVO HOOKS STRONG HOOK’EM UP - Texas president Bill Powers (left), newly hired Texas Longhorns head football coach Charlie Strong (centered) and newly hired athletics director Steve Patterson (right) hold up the Hook’em horns sign at the end of Monday's press conference. Strong is UT’s first Black head football coach in the school’s history. (Villager News) By Shirley A. Hammond, Villager Columnist and Author AUSTIN - Auburn labors under the fact that they have a mystery coach, but UT-Austin decisively announced their new football coach, Charlie Strong, in a January 6th press conference. Strong hails from Batesville, Arkansas and most recently served as coach at the University of Louisville. He is UT’s first African- American football coach. UT alum, students and fans bleed orange, and it looks like Strong feels that the color holds significant importance, as well. During the conference he said, “I don’t ever want to look at it as being the first,” Strong said. “I just want to look at it as I’m a coach, and that’s the way I want to be treated.” In more than eight months, supporters and skeptics alike will begin to see what Strong is capable of as he hopefully leads the team into resurrecting their championship status. To his credit is Coach of the year (twice). In addition, his leadership of the University of Louisville program has resulting in the posting of at least 11 wins in each of the last two seasons, a pair of Big East Conference Championships, the status as the country’s winningest teams, and four straight bowl game appearances with a 3-11 record. Strong has amassed 31 years of collegiate coaching, including defensive coordinator and assistant coach positions. He was a finalist for the Broyles Award three times. In 1996, the Broyles Award was established to recognize the dedication and hard work of the college football assistant coach. A married man with two daughters, it See Bill Powers on Charlie Strong, page 2 LBJ ALUMNUS TURNS AIRMAN Air Force Reserve Airman Danielle N. Franco-Denmon graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas. The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills. Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward Danielle N. Franco-Denmon an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force. Franco-Denmon is the daughter of Margaret and Clyde Denmon of Austin. She is a 2005 graduate of Lyndon B. Johnson High School, Austin. She earned an associate degree in 2010 from Austin Community College. www.theaustinvillager.com Page 2 ~ January 10, 2014/THE VILLAGER THE COMMUNIQUÉ UT President Bill Power on Coach Charlie Strong: “There Is No Question He’s A Winner!” CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 would appear that Strong had exposure to and knowledge of Texas before he became a coach candidate. At the press conference held on Monday, January 6 to announce the hiring of this 29th UT Austin head football coach, he spoke after the university’s athletic director and president offered their words. After explaining the benchmarks they established for head coach candidates, athletic director Steve Patterson stated, “So we’re excited to have Charlie join us here. He meets all those criteria, and we look forward to many years of success, hope- fully with Charlie here for the long haul.” UT President Bill Power followed with similar words of affirmation. “Throughout this process, it’s been clear that we’ve been looking for a coach who can win, and Charlie has shown that, but win with integrity. That’s what we’ve found in Charlie. There is no question he’s a winner.” He spoke of Strong’s amazing transformation of the Louisville football program into a championship team. Added Power, “His talents as a coach are truly evident. More important than that, he elevated the football pro- and fortunate to be the head coach here at the University of Texas to continue the tradition built by so many great coaches including Coach Royal and Coach Brown. I can’t wait to get started because at the University of Texas, I want to make sure that we build and represent the tradition and the history of this great program. We will work like its fourth-and-one or fourth-and-inches New UT Head Football Coach Charlie Strong more than that and gram while increasing foretold the future of make sure our Texas graduation rates, devel- the Texas Longhorns Exes are so happy with oping a culture rooted and mentioned his in- the product that we put in academic success.” sight into what he just on the field. A program Strong, who gradu- signed up for and that has won four naated from the University whose footsteps he fol- tional titles, it’s time to of Central Arkansas, lows in. “I am so thrilled put the program back State Library and Archives Open for Research on Second Saturdays Manor Excel Academy Wins High School Attendance Challenge - 1st in Central Texas, 19th in U.S. Additional Hours Begin January 2014 AUSTIN – Family historians, scholars, students and others interested in what is behind the ornate brass doors of the Lorenzo de Zavala State Archives and Library Building just east of the State Capitol will soon have more opportunities for discovery. Beginning this Saturday, January 11, the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC) will expand its hours of operation to better accommodate researchers. The agency’s three public service areas – the Texas State Archives, Texas Family Heritage Research Center, and the Reference and Information Center – will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. the second Saturday of each month. Maintaining the official history of Texas government, the State Archivesincludes archival government records dating back to the 18th century, as well as newspapers, journals, books, manuscripts, photographs, historical maps, and other historical resources. In addition to published resources in the Texas Family Heritage Research Center, users have full access to the popular genealogical web resources including Ancestry, Fold3 and Heritage Quest. The Reference and Information Center houses almost 2 million federal and Texas state agency publications. “Many people want to access our unique collections but are unable to visit during our regular business hours,” said State Archivist Jelain Chubb. “We believe these additional hours on the second Saturday of each month, along with our quarterly Genealogy After A sample from the Texas State Archives - This original color design sketch by Peter Krag shows the flag and seal for the Republic of Texas. It was approved on January 25, 1839, and signed on the top by Mirabeau Lamar, President of the Republic of Texas; John M. Hansford, Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives; and David Burnet, President of the Texas Senate. Image courtesy of the Texas State Library and Archives Commission. To learn more about TSLAC’s collections and agency operations, please visit www.tsl.texas.gov. Questions concerning Second Saturdays may be addressed to [email protected]. All are invited to follow TSLAC on online at www.facebook.com/ tslac and on Twitter at 17-year old and current high school student Darrell Harris aspires to be a Hip-Hop artist www.twitter.com/tslac for posts highlighting (Manor, TX) Manor is comprised of 80% at photos, maps, docu- ISD, in partnership with risk students who face ments and more from the E3 Alliance and Get many life challenges the agency’s collections. Schooled, are proud to that make a traditional announce Manor Excel school difficult for them Academy as the Central to succeed in. Through Texas Region high the use of technology School winner of the and focused and effecGraduate for Más Fall tive support services, Attendance Challenge. students are provided Nationwide, Manor Ex- with the skills, recel Academy placed 19th sources and opportuniout of all participating ties they need to commiddle and high plete their high school schools. The Challenge studies and set goals for was a friendly ten week success after graduacompetition to rally stu- tion. Manor Excel Acaddents to improve attendance and stay focused emy will be celebrating on education. More than their accomplishment 135,000 students par- with a school-wide ticipated nationally in lunch catered by Taco the 2013 Fall Attendance Bell followed by live D.J. school dance party Challenge. Manor Excel Acad- on Wednesday, January emy is a state-of-the-art 8 th from 11:15 a.m. – accelerated diploma 12:30 p.m. The School program with a strong will also be accepting a focus on providing sup- prize of $5000. Manor High School port for non-traditional students to succeed and also finished 40th nationTEXAS-SIZED HONOR - Samantha Riddle is become college ready. See HARRIS, page 5 crowned Miss Texas International 2013. (Arcus The student population Dark programs, will make our materials more accessible to a larger audience.” Regular business hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.The library is closed on most federal holidays. Researchers using original documents in the State Archives for the first time will be required to register and must present valid photo identification and proof of current address. Search Begins for the Next Teen, Miss and Mrs. Austin 2014 Do your New Year’s resolutions include becoming a betteryou and making a difference in your community? Have you ever dreamed of one day wearing a sparkling crown and sash to put a smile on a child’s face and bring awareness to a cause close to your heart? The International Pageant System recognizes ladies across the state, from teens to misses to married women, for their accomplishments and their desire to make a difference. The search is on and applications are now being accepted for the titles of Miss Teen Austin, Miss Austin and Mrs. Austin International 2014. These on the national stage.” The former football player complimented those who stood in the same shoes in the past, as well as those who now share his status as a coach in the Lone Star state. He said, “Nationally, the Texas high school coaches are king. My staff and I will be committed to closing the borders on this great state and making them realize that this is their program. We’ll recruit with fire, and we’ll recruit with passion. We’re devoted to making Austin the state capitol for college football as well as the state capitol of this state.” women will have the honor of representing their area at the Texas International Pageant to be held at the Granville Arts Center in the Dallas, Texas, area March 14 th -16 th. A new Miss Teen Texas International, Miss Texas International and Mrs. Texas International will be crowned then, kickstarting a year unlike any other for the lucky ladies who will represent Texas, wearing the most beautiful crown in the Lone Star State. “The Texas International system is something that dads and husbands can be proud of their daughters and wives participating in,” said Rachel Hedstrom, See WHO WILL BE, page 5 Media) www.theaustinvillager.com THE VILLAGER/January 10, 2014 ~ Page 3 CHURCH & TOWN BULLETIN 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 . “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! Church Services Sunday School Sunday Worship 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.org 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. True Hope Apostolic Church The Apostle Gerald E. Loveless, Senior Pastor www.thcm.org 8863 Anderson Mill Rd. Austin, TX 78653 512-744-5851 Cell 512-547-HOPE Church 512-767-4979 Assistant, Elder Walker HT’s Annual Lecture to Address Divine Calling in Work and Life (AUSTIN, Texas) — “Vocare: The Art of Listening for Divine Calling in Work and Life” will be addressed during the Seventh Annual Huston-Tillotson University Bishop E.T. Dixon Lecture that will be held on Thursday, Jan. 30, 2014, from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on the campus in the AgardLovinggood Auditorium, 900 Chicon Street. Rev. Bridgette Young Ross, Assistant General Secretary for Collegiate Ministries, Division of Higher Education at the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry, will use biblical principles and her life’s journey in sales, marketing, and human resources in corporate America to her current work in the ministry to Charles Maund Toyota 8400 Research Blvd. P.O. Box 1608 Austin, TX 78758 Damon Luckett Sales Consultant (512) 458-2222 damon_luckett@ charlesmaundtoyota.com Rev. Bridgette Young Ross relate the topic to those seeking answers to their purpose in life. Her gift also includes equipping young people to hear God’s calling through her passion for teaching, spiritual nurturing, and Christian formation. Ross is a liaison to The United Methodist Campus Ministry Association, and the National Association of College and University Chaplains and College Union. Prior to her current positions, Ross served for nine years at Emory University as the Senior Associate Dean of the Chapel and Religious Life, and for two years as the Director of the Wesley Foundation at Georgia Tech. She is an ordained Elder of the North Georgia Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church and served in various local church and conference appointments before answering the particular call to be in ministry on the college campus. A native of Chicago, Illinois, Ross earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from the DOUBLE 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 [email protected] THE PLACE WHERE WE STEP OUT ON FAITH. COME AND STEP OUT ON FAITH WITH US 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. Rev. Jack C. Gause Pastor (to include Children’s Choir Rehersaland Bible Study with age appropiate Activities) Ebenezer Baptist Church 1010 East 10th Street 512-478-1875 Fax 512-478-1892 Bus Ministry Dr. Ricky Freeman, Pastor Wednesday Midweek Prayer Service 7:00 P.M. Child Development Center Ages 0-5 years (Daily) 512-478-6709 Felix Bamirin, Pastor GRACEWAY CHRISTIAN CHURCH Experience Grace For Life JOIN US This SUNDAY / THURSDAY @ 12424 Scofield Farms Drive, Austin, TX 78758 (By Parmer Lane Baptist Church building, behind Wells Fargo) SUNDAYS 10:30 A.M., THURSDAYS 7:30 P.M. Call: 682.472.9073 l Email: [email protected] l Visit: www.gracewaycca.org 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 Visit:imanichurch.com Office: 512-343-9300 The Church of Pentecost Richard Glasco, Agent 11824 Jollyville Rd Suite 300 Austin, TX 78759-2300 (512) 250-5533 Ask me about Disability Income Insurance the The bills don’t stop when State Farm Way. you’re sick or hurt and statefarm.com have no income State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company *Home Office: Bloomington, Illinois Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. Call for details on coverage, cost, restrictions and renewability Worship: Sunday-10:00 am - 12:30 pm Tuesday Bible Studies-7:30pm - 9:00 pm Friday Prayers-7:30 pm - 9:30 pm 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 Advertise With The Kenneth Hill, Pastor Romans 5:1 Therefore,having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ See PV Mime, page 5 INSURANCE THAT IS! 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 evening concert. Stated Freeman, “I have had the opportunity to witness PV Mime’s ministry on multiple occasions, both at ALC and in the auditorium on the school campus. I must say that my impression has always been the same. The anointing on their ministry is amazing. I am constantly amazed that such young men can minister with such passion to the point that their experience with God is evident. I am always happy and proud to see young people doing anything positive and for the LORD...” He added that the excellence they bring to their performance amounts to the “cherry on top.” The annual “Rise Up” event will take HOW’S YOUR HEALTH? Imani Community Church We Want YOU! VILLAGER Reverential, much anointed, expressive, and sometimes high octane. This describes the PV Mime ministry of Prairie View A&M. On Saturday, January 4 they hosted a Night of Worship event at Abundant Life Community Baptist Church in Wells Branch (ALC). The evening event was one of their fund raisers leading up to their Second annual “Rise Up” Mime Ministry. Admission was $5. ALC pastor DeChard I.H.M. Freeman shared that he was happy to offer up the church facilities as a venue for this group, in large part because one of the mime artist is a member and Gospel son at ALC. Minister Nicolas Hunt was amongst the performers during the Saturday 450l East Martin Luther King Blvd. Rev. Dr. Jacquelyn Donald-Mims 8:00 A.M. 9:00 A.M. 10:00 A.M. 11:00 A.M. By Shirley A. Hammond *We cash ALL Tax Refund*Checks *Check Out Davis Elementray Auditorium nity in numerous positions while establishing innovative programs before and after becoming president of Philander Smith College in Little Rock, Arkansas. He retired in 1992 and died in 1996. HustonTillotson is affiliated with The United Methodist Church, the United Church of Christ, and offers a minor in religious studies. Free and open to the public. For more information, contact Rev. Donald E. Brewington, University Chaplain, 512.505.3054, or email him at address [email protected]. PV Mime ministry of Prairie View A&M “R” GROCERY Call 512-478-1875 Sunday Services Worship Service Sunday School Discipleship Training Worship Service Illinois Institute of Technology, a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and a Master of Divinity from Gammon Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center. Dixon, for which the lecture is named, is one of two HT graduates to receive “bishop” status. He graduated magna cum laude from what was Samuel Huston College in 1943 before earning a degree from Drew Theological Seminary. He served the church and commu- Wes Spears Spears Law 30 Years Experience Personal Injury, [email protected] Criminal and Family Law Attorney 401 Congress Avenue Austin, Texas, 78701 Suite 1540 512-696-2222 512-687-3499 *Austin and Kileen | *Principal Office www.theaustinvillager.com Page 4 ~ January 10, 2014/THE VILLAGER YOUTH BRIGADE Youth of Today Senior Project take it easy my Senior year," as well as "Everything seems pointless, I know all this already." A committee will study the work completed at area high schools, build a set of qualities to build within students, and brainstorm Alon Rodgers ideas. Meeting dates/ Hendrickson Highschool times will be set to meet There is more infor- the convenience of the mation about the pro- team members. If your posed Senior Year parents are interested, Project. This is planned please tell them to conas the capstone project tact the principal, Devin at for graduation and will Padavil begin next school year. [email protected]. Hawks varsity basThe mythical ailment of "Senioritis" strikes some ketball team (10-10) 12th graders across the played in the Cedar nation during their last Park Tournament last year of high school. Re- week going two and two gardless of the quality of and hosted Stoney a student's school, some Point on New Years' common symptoms of Eve. Our next home "senioritis" include the game will be against statements, "I am ready cross town rival the to graduate and move Pflugerville Panthers out of here," "I want to (15-5) on Jan. 7. Hope of Tomorrow Happy 2014 to do any work and not have any obligations. I could honestly have relaxed for another good two weeks before going back to school. The only thing that is pushing me to get through this semester is the fact that I’m almost a senior. Just one more semester and I will be one Kiara Myers step closer to being free. Vista Ridge H.S. It’s weird to think that at This winter break this time next year I will be was much needed! I applying to colleges and spent basically everyday getting letters back. I just sleeping in until 12:30 hope that this semester p.m. and watching mov- goes by as fast as the ies for the rest of the time. past one and that my It felt so good to not have grades stay the same. teacher how you are doing in science and they will give you a grade on your craftsmanship, the effort you put into it and originality. Some Examples of the projects that the students will be displaying is how cheese rots, does food coloring effect waters evaporation process, what are the effects Zachariah Washington when you mix baking Cedars Academy soda and vinegar and At Cedars Interna- many more projects to tional Academy we are come. That’s something having a science fair that you don’t what to when we get back from miss. I will see you the break. It will tell your there!!!! Imani Demps Del Valle High School TheVillagerAnd BlackRegistryCompany @TheVillagerATX www.TheAustinVillager.com happy that Christmas break is over because I get to go back to school. All of my days at school have gone by very quickly and it doesn't feel like I have been in school for four months. Over my Christmas break, I went to a lot of cities and even got a chance to ride Amtrak and Megabus. Christmas was great! I can't wait for Christmas break to come again! Until next time, Go Pease Bobcats Second Semester Cedars Science Fair So this week we go back to school, I'm ready. I know the week after this one we take finals and I'm not prepared to do that but I have to. I'm going to try and do everything that needs to be done so I can pass. I hate being out of school because when we are in school we are one step closer to the end of the year. I can't wait until next year. Christmas 2013 year but my mother made some because my dad loves pork. He always says, if you eat pork on New Year’s Day, you will live high on the hog for the rest of the year.” I don’t know about that. At the beginnings of the year people like to start fresh with their diet and exercise. They try to give Averill Topps up some bad habits like Pease Elementary Sarah Robertson eating too much, smokPioneer Crossing Elem. Christmas break is ing and start a new The New Year is hobby. I really don’t have finally over and it's back here. I had a great Christ- any really bad habits to to Pease Elementary. To mas and New Year holi- give up, but I will try read- tell the truth, I am kind of day season. This year ing a little more this year for Christmas we did and I try to do something something different we I never done before like had a fish fry instead of golf. the traditional dishes with Well, school starts this week, holiday time is friends. It was great! For the New Year over. I am very happy we had pork chops, about that because I love black eye pea, cabbage school and I miss all my and macaroni and friends. I hope this secheese. We really don’t mester will be a great eat pork much during the one. Happy New Year! One More Semester I’m Ready Black Registry Happy New Year Lanette Demps Del Valle High School “The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character - that is the goal of true education. - Martin Luther King, Jr. I hope everyone had a great christmas and a Happy New Year. I hope the goals you want that you succeed in. I hope this year I pass alo my classes with an 80 or above I hope I stay in color guard and do a good jod in that. I wish Everyone has a great year. Wesley Dickerson Cedar Ridge H.S. I am very excited to start this next semester even though I’m positive I won’t be saying that once I receive my first project or essay. My first semester in high school was everything I expected and more. My basketball team is doing well, the football team gave a good effort in the playoffs, which was fun to watch, and most of all my grades fulfilled all expectations. I am very proud to be able to truly say that I like my school. My first impression of Cedar Ridge was fantastic, the teachers and coaches are nice and the school itself is a great building that is well mapped out. This next semester holds many new and exciting things for the rest of the school year. I am excited to do many things this semester. For example I have my first DECA competition in February. DECA is my school’s business club of which I am a proud member. Also district play just started in basketball so hopefully we can bring home the championship. Although as they school year goes on one thing is always certain, everything gets harder. Even blow off classes might actually be a surprise; it’s impossible to know. Although it is crucial to stay calm because stress never does any good. So I plan to go into this next semester calm, cool, and confident and finish my freshman year strong. Oil companies hire a online professor to teach Africans how to drill for natural gas. by Kimberly Jarrett Beginning in February, students in Mozambique will learn online from a Texas Tech University professor how to drill for gas in the Mozambique Channel between East Africa and the Madagascar Island, according to a Jan. 3 report in THE JOURNAL OF BLACKS IN HIGHER EDUCATION. The report stated that oil companies leasing areas where “significant gas discoveries have been found” hired the professor because there are few petroleum engineers in the region. The Indian Ocean borders the east of Mozambique, and Tanzaia, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, and South Africa border it landside. www.theaustinvillager.com THE VILLAGER/January 10, 2014 ~ Page 5 YOUTH BRIGADE National Forum For Black Public Administrators Central Texas Chapter ATX Youth Summit 2014 "A Celebration of Teen Creativity" Join Women in Jazz and NFBPA, in partnership with Austin Parks and Recreation as they host the Annual ATX Youth Summit. Members are encouraged to spread the word to youth ages 717. Workshops will include: Born Again Bodies Transformational Programs, Dance and Fit; Let's Make a Film; Totally Cool/Totally Art Teen Art Workshop; Women in Jazz Singers' Performance Workshop; and Dancin' Jazzi Workshop. To register, Visit: www.atxyouthsummit 2014.eventbrite.com Or call 512-258-6947 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 across the state in every grade. Each day our students miss costs our schools about $38 in lost state revenue. Across Central Texas, our schools have been losing more than $91 million a year! That’s why E 3 Alliance spearheaded a regional campaign to improve attendance starting in 2011. Since the start of the campaign, Central Texas schools have saved more than $12M in increased revenue due to improved attendance. “We are honored and extremely proud of our students,” said Manor Excel Academy Principal Eduardo Lozano. “Our team has worked tirelessly to instill and promote a culture of attendance and dedication to learning at Manor Excel. Our students know that to learn you have to show up and show resilience and commitment to learning. We are immensely proud of their diligence, discipline and focus on good attendance. We could not be more proud!” PV Mime CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 place at Prairie View A&M on January 25. The all day workshop will feature classes from children to adults at beginner to advanced level. There will also be praise dancing and leadership classes. On April 19 they will have their 10th anniversary celebration which will commemorate their 10 years of ministry at the university. Founders, former participants and others who fostered the furtherance of this ministry will be in attendance. After the performance, Pastor Freeman praised them for the amazing anointing they displayed and marveled at the way the performers used their bodies to worship in this special way. The cast showcased their well-practiced routines to a variety of praise and worship songs. Many in the audience stated that they got turned up as they watched them in routines of expressive praise. One Accord performed as a female duo. Leader Shaleetha Jackson and another female in the quad group rendered excellence in their praise performance, as well. The president of PV Mime is a junior majoring in biology and minoring in chemistry. He stated that he wishes to become an anesthesiologist. Jaquan McIntosh hails from New Jersey, but has lived in Texas for a number of years. He said this is both his third year miming and his third year as a believer. He recalled that another member of the group invited him to an open house event provided by Breakfast and lunch included Registration 8:00 - 9:00 am Workshops start at 9:00, ages 7-17 Workshops: · Born Again Bodies Transformational Programs, Dance and Fitness · Let's Make A Film · Totally Cool/Totally Art Teen Art Workshop · Women in Jazz Singers' Performance Workshop · Dancin' Jazzi Workshop Who Will be the Next to Wear the Most Beautiful Crown in the Lone Star State? HARRIS WINS WORD HIP-HOP CONTEST ally, and one of their students Darrell Harris won the national SAT word hip-hop contest. A video of Darrell’s winning rap can be seen here: https:/ /getschooled.com/befamous/hip-hop-actwinners-round-one Get Schooled, in partnership with the Taco Bell Foundation for Teens, sponsored the Challenge in districts throughout the country from October 7 to December 13, 2013. Partnering with local school districts and backbone organizations such as E3 Alliance, the Challenge provided students with incentives and fun, educational activities that engaged students while providing college planning information and promoting a peer culture that supports attendance improvement and academic success. High absenteeism has been a challenge in Central Texas. Each year, Central Texas students are absent 2.4 million days of school and miss more days of school than their peers Saturday, January 25, 2014 from 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. @ George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center 1165 Angelina St., Austin, TX 78702 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 director of Texas International and former Mrs. Texas International 2012. “This is the kind of system that rewards women for who they are and what they want for themselves and their families.” No previous pageant experience is necessary, and there is no talent or swimsuit division. Married women compete in interview, fitness wear and evening gown, where they are escorted by their husbands on stage. Teen and miss contestants compete in interview, fitness wear and evening gown, as well as “fun fashion,” a category devoted to showing off their own personal style in an ageappropriate outfit of their choosing. “It’s all about cel- ebrating women as they truly are, and showing a level of confidence as they sparkle on-stage,” said Hedstrom. Mrs. applicants must be married and between the ages of 21 and 56 as of July 1, 2014. Miss applicants must be unmarried and between the ages of 19 and 30, and teen applicants must be unmarried and between the ages of 13 and 18 as of July 1, 2014. The women selected as Miss Teen Austin, Miss Austin and Mrs. Austin will serve as ambassadors from the Austin area with an official title and sash. Other area titles are also available. The women crowned as Miss Teen Texas International, Miss Texas International and Mrs. Texas International 2014 will each receive a prize package valued in the thousands of dollars and the opportunity to represent Texas at the 2014 Mrs. International, Miss International or Miss Teen International Pageant in Florida in July. Mrs. Texas International 2013 Michelle Berndt is a mom of two and a fourth-generation breast cancer survivor who was crowned while wearing a wig, a result of her chemotherapy and radiation treatments. She has spoken across the southwest and in the media about her campaign against cancer, and has been featured in a documentary about her mission. Miss Texas International 2013 Samantha Riddle is an advocate for heart disease awareness, and has lobbied the Texas State Legislature, working closely with the American Heart Association and serving myriad nonprofit causes, for which she frequently makes appearances. Miss Teen Texas International 2013 Kylie Boyd is a student at Texas Tech University, where she is also a barrel racer. She has led the Polar Bear Plunge at Sea World of Texas, and has shot forNational Geographic magazine, in which she will be featured later this year. “The International system allows women to be at their best and to chase their dreams,” said Hedstrom. “It’s not about fitting into an unrealistic norm; it’s about helping these women get to that next level and do something meaningful and fulfilling. Competing is about investing in who they are, not trying to be someone they are not. In that, these girls find success.” To request an application to represent your area, please contact Rachel Hedstrom. PV Mime and said it opened his eyes as to what mime ministry is as opposed to theatrical miming. He listed some of the benefits he gains from participating, love, brotherhood, intercessory Prayer, strength and humility, and a love for God that has continue to grow “Even when we don’t have our paint on we are always ministering with our conduct and how we live,” explained the 20 year old, who is believing by faith that he’s bound for the school’s Undergraduate Medical Academy. For more information, or to donate to their fundraising efforts, contact [email protected] or visit www.pvmime.com. www.theaustinvillager.com Page 6 ~ January 10, 2014/THE VILLAGER CITY ~ STATE ~ NATIONAL ~ WORLD Now that the district line is set for the Austin City Council, there are numerous candidates who have declared their intention to run for office. One of the candidates running for the Austin City Council District 10 is Tina Cannon. Ms. Tina Cannon is a partner at Napkin Venture. Previously Ms. Cannon served as the CEO and the CoFounder of Pets MD.Com that was acquired by another company. Furthermore she served as the "Entrepreneur in Residence" at Texas State University. As the campaign rolls out, Ms. Tina Cannon has already set some core principles of her campaign. Some of the core principles as stated by Ms. Cannon are to enhance, "Many growing local businesses and entrepreneurship; to ensure an open and transparent taxes and to impact affordability issues; to have city budget reviews; to promote affordable housing; to cut wasteful spending; and by Tsoke (Chuch) Adjavon to have a building consensus among new district leaders." These are some core principles that she plans to elaborate on during the campaign. Moreover, Austin city council district 10 covers parts of Central, North and North West Austin area. According to the census report, District 10 is 86 percent White; 2 percent Black; 9 percent Hispanic and 8 percent Asian." The district includes neighborhoods like: Old Enfield; and Bryker Woods. Most Austinites believe that the 10-1 Tina Cannon, contender for Austin City Council. plans offers the best government; to increase servation; to protect our type of representation financial accountability environment and on the city county level. at the City Hall; to fis- Austin’s unique culture; But now the question cally have a responsible to repair our broken in- will people show up to approach to energy con- frastructure; to reduce the polls. Cannon Runs for ACC District 10 Growing Ivorian Community Good Hope MBC 2014 Leadership Conference Please join Pastor Michael Oyedokun, II and church leaders at Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church for the annual Leadership Conference on Saturday, January 11, 2014. Get ready for an engaging learning journey as we discover the art and science of effective communication. The conference will begin at 9:00 a.m. and will last until 2:00 p.m. Lunch will be included Mrs. Kobeman, Chantal Eldridge, and Mrs. Ndri at the Ivorian and a donation of $5.00 Association New Year Eve event. Photo by Tsoke (Chuch) Adjavon is encouraged. The theme for the LeaderDuring this event, lies that are members of ship Conference is: by Tsoke the Ivorian Association the association. In addi(Chuch) Adjavon Cultivating Christian invited its members, tion, there are hundreds Communication: On New Year’s other African Diasporas, of other Ivorian living "The Value of Eve, the growing dignitaries, and poten- within the Central Texas Knowing the Scoop" Ivorian Diaspora held tial candidates running areas that include cities an event that was meant for offices in Central like Waco, Killeen, to build unity within Texas. Not only were Temple, Round Rock, their community. In the Ivorian there, but there Pflugerville, Austin, past 3 years, the nation were Africans of various Manor, and San Marcos. of Ivory Coast has come countries such as Togo, In general, the African out of a bloody civil war Cameroon, Guinea, Diaspora has been that divided their nation Burkina Faso, and Nige- growing in Central based on politics. More- ria. In addition, a poten- Texas due to the growover, this division was tial candidate like ing economy in the reEldridge gion. reflected even within its Chantal Moreover, the diaspora living in the showed up to the event. 1 Timothy 4:1 – 6; 1 United States. However For Chantal it was an Ivorian Diaspora has now, the challenge of the opportunity to meet the been able to succeed Peter 3:13 – 16 Communication is Ivorian Association is to ever growing Ivorian here in Central Texas. continue to break the and African community Some members of the at the Heart of the MatIvoirian community are ter: wall of division and to in Central Texas. Encouraging othDuring the past de- business owners whose unite all of its diaspora that goes beyond politi- cade, the Ivorian com- businesses contribute to ers through the art of efcal belief or ethnic back- munity in Central Texas the tax base in Central fective communication ground. So far, the has steadily been grow- Texas. Some members is important for a body president of the Ivorian ing. According to the of the community are of Christians. And a community has been president of the Ivorian professionals, while ministry is incomplete bringing his community community, there are others are students in unless there is the presence of learning. about 45 different fami- Central Texas. together. The Facilitator is Lisa Pierce-Jones, who Competition will take works as a Corporate place at the George Trainer/Consultant in Washington Carver the Human Resources Museum’s Boyd Vance and Organizational DeTheatre on Tuesday, velopment department January 14, 2014 from at TG. The MLK Oratory 6:00 – 8:00pm. FMI: 512.934.4601 MLK Oratory Competition Texas House District Voters Will Cast Ballot in Special Election by Tsoke (Chuch) Adjavon On November 5, 2013 Central Texans went to the polls to elect a candidate to represent the people living in the their candidates at the ballot box. For instance, Democrats chose among Jade Chang Sheppard, Rico Reyes, and Celia Israel. In this very much contested and watched race, Celia Israel won. On the other hand, the Republicans chose Mike Van De Walle. Moreover, Governor Perry has set the election day of the Texas House District 50 on January 28, 2014. The early voting period for this special election is supposed to be from January 20th to January 24th and whoever wins will serve the remainder of the State Representative Mark Strama's unexpired term. In addition, each candidate will have to run again in their own political party primaries. Since both candidates Celia Israel (Democrat candidate) and Mike Van De Walle (Republican candidate) did not receive 50%, then the race will go into a runoff. Moreover, the Texas Celia Israel northern parts of Travis County which include Jade Chang Sheppard Rico Reyes Pflugerville, parts of North and North-West Austin, and parts of Manor. Democrats and Republicans each had the opportunity to choose House District 50 is very racially and ethnically diverse. Texas House District 50 is also considered to have various high tech sector businesses in Travis County. In addition it is considered to be a swing district which could be won by either political party. THE TAX MAN COMETH Business Tax Obligations Part of operating a business profitably consists of managing your tax reporting requirements correctly and managing your tax bills in the most advantageous ways. Non-compliance can, in some cases, completely cripple a business. This class explores most common tax situations that will affect a small to medium size business. You'll learn how to prepare and file taxes for sales, payroll, franchise, federal income, personal property, real property, and non-Texas returns. Taught by a University of Texas Adjunct Instructor, the class counts toward the sixcourse requirement to get a Small Business Success Skills Certification. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Entrepreneur Center. The is a registration fee includes light breakfast. Call for more information. FMI Visit: austinsmallbiz.com or call 512.974.7800 www.theaustinvillager.com THE VILLAGER/January 10, 2014 ~ Page 7 CLASSIFIEDS ~ PUBLIC INFORMATION Bill O’Brien takes over the helm at the Houston Texans By Terry Davis Sports Media Caster The Houston Texans after winning the South division of the American Football Conference (AFC) fired Gary Kubiak after a going 211 this season. Defensive coordinator Wade Phillips assumed the title as interim head with 3 games remaining in the season. Former Penn State head coach and New England Patriots offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien was named the third head coach in Houston Texans franchise history by owner Bob McNair, chief operating officer Cal McNair and general manager and executive vice president of football operations Rick Smith, it was announced today. O’Brien, who has 21 years of coaching ex- perience at the college and NFL levels, spent the last two years leading Penn State to a 15-9 record. He was the Bear Bryant, Maxwell Football Club and ESPN National Coach of the Year, as well as being named the named the Big Ten coach of the year by the media and coaches following his first season at the helm despite working under extraordinarily difficult conditions. O’Brien took over the head coaching duties from legendary coach Joe Paterno, after he was force to resign after the Jerry Sandusky scandal. From many media reports and from O’Brien himself, many of the Paterno loyalist never really accepted him has the coach. Despite very hard NCAA sanctions against Penn State O’Brien was able to be successful. In O’Brien’s first season at Penn State, the Nittany Lions overcame EMPLOYMENT PROPOSALS PUBLIC INFORMATION FOR SALE FOR RENT BIDS MISCELLANEOUS REQUEST FOR MBE/WBE Subcontractor Participation Alpha Building Corporation intends to submit a bid for the following project: ABIA Building 60050 Improvements – Phase II The Work consists of Interior renovations of offices and meeting rooms, and associated MEP modifications Located at: 2716 Spirit of Texas Dr. Austin, TX 78719 CIP ID# 6001.084 IFB# 6100 CLMC459 You may contact Mandy Germany @ 512-4730871 for more specific scope detail, additional information for submitting your bid, and general questions in regard to qualifications required. We ask that interested subcontractors submit their bids by January 15, 2014 @ 3:00 PM. Bid Documents may be obtained at One Texas Center, 505 Barton Springs Road, Ste. 760, Austin, TX 78704. Copies will be available in CD format at no cost. City of Austin Purchasing Office The City of Austin Purchasing Office invites you to view current bid solicitations at https:// w w w. c i . a u s t i n . t x . u s / f i n a n c e o n l i n e / vendor_connection/solicitation/solicitations.cfm. Vendors are encouraged to register on-line in the City’s Vendor Self Service System. Once your company is registered, you will receive notifications about new bid opportunities. For additional information regarding current bid opportunities or Vendor Registration, please call the Purchasing Office at 512-974-2500. For information on the City of Austin’s Minority Owned and Women-Owned Procurement Program and the certification process, please contact the Small & Minority Business Resources Department at 512-974-7600 or visit their website at http://www.austintexas.gov/smbr. Bill O'Brien (photo courtesy of USA Today SI) heavy NCAA recruiting sanctions, the transfer of several key contributors, a four-year postseason ban and the negative attention that came with it to post an 8-4 record. O’Brien also served as offensive coordinator and directed a unit that averaged 437.0 yards per game in conference play to the lead the Big Ten and produced the conference’s top rusher, receiver and passer. O’Brien returned in 2013 to lead the Nittany Lions to a 75 record and upset wins against 18th-ranked Michigan and 14thranked Wisconsin in the season finale. Prior to taking over at Penn State, O’Brien helped lead the New England Patriots to a pair of Super Bowl berths in his five years on staff with the team. From 2009-10, O’Brien served as quarterbacks coach with the Patriots before adding the duties of offensive coordinator in 2011. With O’Brien directing the offense in 2011, New England led the AFC with 32.1 points per game and ranked sec- World Religion Day & The Golden Rule the fellow man. In Christianity, the words, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” are found in Luke 6:31. This scripture translates in Judaism to “What is hateful to you, do not to your fellow man. That is the entire law; all the rest is commentary.” Other religions have their own versions of this verse or maxim, and it is often called The Golden Rule, or the ethics of reprocity. In the United States, the Protestant faith (which includes Christianity) is practiced by 61% with Roman Catholic following at, 25% and Jewish at 2%. The remaining 12% included those reporting to be followers of another faith or none. The Protestant movement was traced back to Martin Luther, who in the 16th century is credited with publishing a thesis that included salvation, justification and ecclesiology. According to the World Religion Day website, the aim is to unite everyone, whatever their faith, by showing us all that there are common foundations to all religions and that together we can help humanity and live in harmony. The concept of “world religion” is historically based on a subjective perception of temporal or theological importance, usually from a Western, “Christian” (or at least “Abrahamic”) perspective. January 18, 2014 marks World Religion Day across the globe. The day was implemented in 1950 by the Bahai faith. Their objective was to get followers of the faith to observe the day publicly wherever they might be. While the celebratory day encapsulates all religions, inarguably one of the most common religious verses or quotes across several religions deal with treatment of Austin Travis County Integral Care is currently seeking applications through an open enrollment process for each Request for Application (RFA) shown below: · RFA for Non-Traditional Community Based Support Services · RFA for Licensed, Certified Professional and Counseling Services The open enrollment process begins January 6, 2014; the deadline to submit an application is April 7, 2014. Please click on the link below to download the RFA and follow the submission instructions in the RFA. http://www.integralcare.org/ ?nd=provider_rfa If you have any questions regarding the RFA, please send an e-mail to [email protected]. ond in the NFL in total offense (428.0 yards per game) and passing (317.8). Quarterback Tom Brady ranked second in the NFL with a careerhigh 5,235 yards passing and wide receiver Wes Welker (1,569 yards) and tight end Rob Gronkowski (1,327 yards) both set career highs while ranking first and second, respectively, among AFC receivers. Gronkowski also set an NFL singleseason record for tight ends in 2011 with 17 touchdown receptions. Brady was named NFL MVP with O’Brien as his position coach in 2010 after throwing for 36 touchdowns against only four interceptions and a league-best 111.0 passer rating. O’Brien joined the Patriots’ staff as an offensive assistant in 2007 and was promoted to wide receivers coach in 2008. He began his coaching career at his alma mater, Brown University, in 1993 as a tight ends coach before serv- ing as inside linebackers coach in 1994. O’Brien spent the next eight years at Georgia Tech, rising from a graduate assistant position from 1995-97 to assistant head coach by 2002. He coached the Yellow Jackets’ running backs from 1998-2000 and was offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach in 2001. From 2003-04, O’Brien served as the running backs coach at Maryland before taking over as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Duke for the 2005 and 2006 seasons. Born in Dorchester, Mass., O’Brien grew up in the Boston suburb of Andover and played linebacker and defensive end at Brown from 1990-92. He graduated with a double concentration in political science and organizational behavioral management in 1992. O’Brien and his wife, Colleen, have two sons: Jack, 11, and Michael, 8. For more informaAlso at the site, tion, and ideas for celyou can find out all about this day and ways ebrating one’s faith, visit to get involved and in- www.worldreligionday.org/ spirational poetry, such as God’s Garden. Excerpts from a poem by Robert Kogan and Mary Sullivan found on the site follows: GOD’S GARDEN; God’s love is not a secret; It’s etched upon each face; The We Make people garden is but Advertising one; The budding human race. Affordable Ideas for World 1 x 3 $48.00 Religion Day: Memorize a verse or poem 2 x 2 $64.00 about one’s faith, a fam2 x 5 $160.00 ily activity would be to 3 x 5 $240.00 study the 8 pillars of character and discuss 3 x 10.5 $504.00 how they can be practiced, children (as well Call Now! as adults) can write a 512.476.0082 poem about their faith, develop an action plan for practicing random acts of kindness, scripting prayers to pray and meditate upon, and learn more about The Silver Rule. You’re Unique! And we are honoring you and celebrating MLK Day! Now Hiring at all locations (North, South & Central) Are you looking for a great place to work? Stop your search, you found us! Please join us at our Open House event where you can find out why Bright Horizons has been named fourteen times as one of FORTUNE magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For.” We are hiring for Infant, Preschool and oncall Substitute Teachers! Join us for an onsite interview with a hiring manager and find out information about our company and program! Friday, January 17, 2014 @ 12:00pm-3:00pm Location: Bright Horizons at Oak Hill 6111 Davis Lane, Austin, TX 78749 Apply online www.brighthorizons.com/careers and be sure to RSVP by contacting: Christie Hall, Recruitment Manager [email protected] p: 512.926.2786 Bright Horizons Family Solutions is an Affirmative Action employer, committed to diversity in our workplace. www.theaustinvillager.com Page 8 ~ January 10, 2014/THE VILLAGER PROGRAMS ~ AWARENESS Cover To Cover…‘Nothing to Lose’ By Terri Schlichenmeyer - Special to the NNPA from the New Pittsburgh Courier “No” is definitely not your favorite word. You can’t stand to hear it in any form. You can’t stand to read it and you very rarely say it. You hate the word because it only means you can’t have something you want. That’s a word you’ve removed from your vocabulary. So how far would you go to get your heart’s greatest desire? In the new book “Nothing to Lose” by Angela Winter, three friends want what they want— and they’ll destroy lives to get it. Sherise Robinson was “demanding and spoiled, and that was the way she liked it.” She’d grown up on in Southeast D.C. and had clawed her way to where she was, working with the man who would surely be the next President of the United States. Yes, she was at the top of her game, but it hadn’t been easy. Sherise had slept with a lot of men, both for revenge and for social position. It had almost cost her marriage but she and Justin had been in therapy and were now more in love than ever before. Sherise only hoped that would be enough if, for some reason, the lid was ever blown off the biggest potential scandal of alltime. It had been a long year for Billie Carter, but things were finally looking up. She’d made a career-altering mistake at her D.C. law firm, and while the partners were reluctant to fire her, she knew they were relieved when she re- have to work with her ex-husband on a big case. The first part would be a piece of cake. The second part would almost ruin everything. Erica Kent had discovered the truth about her paternity by mistake. It was a bigger mistake to confront powerful Jonah Nolan about it because now he wanted to control her life, for her own good, he claimed. But Erica was fully capable of making decisions and finding her own love. Wasn’t she? Oh, my. Where do I begin? Let’s start with this: I fully believe there are way too many characters in this book; eight signed. After six months with strings attached. of them before you’re of joblessness, though, Billie had to win over a even at the end of page her old lawschool chum headhunter and, once three. Add in an exoffered her a plum job— she did that, she would tremely convoluted tangle of infidelity that ultimately matters little to the storyline and you’re off to a not-sogood start. If it got better, I would tell you. But I can’t. From this weak opening, more characters are added: manipulators, alcoholics, liars, sniping “girls,” not much to like. The scandals are ho-hum, toss in a silly faux-intrigue story-with-a-story, and it’s all quite hard to follow. No matter: I pretty much stopped caring long before the contrived ending is revealed. There are better books out there—some, by author Angela Winters! but I just can’t recommend this one. You may want to try “Nothing to Lose” but I don’t see anything to gain by it. Number of Black-Owned TV Stations Plummets to Zero By Joseph Torres and S. Derek Turner Special to the NNPA from New America Media affairs is the culmination of a trend that started in the late 1990s when Congress and the Federal Communications Commission allowed massive consolidation in the broadcasting industry. This policy shift crowded out existing owners of color and ensured that it would be nearly impossible for new owners to access the public airwaves. Recent FCC actions (and in some cases, inaction) have only hastened this decline in opportunities for diverse broadcasters. When Free Press released its first report on the state of TV own- ership in 2006, we found that there were only 18 African Americanowned and operated full-power commercial TV stations – representing just 1.3 percent of all such stations. By December 2012, those 18 had shrunk to just five. And now they’re all gone. U.S. media – and barely anyone noticed. There are now zero Black-owned and operWe just experi- ated full-power TV staenced a shameful mile- tions in our country. This sorry state of stone in the history of It’s Time To Renew Your classified listing in the Black Registry Directory for 2014 The only classified directory of African American Businesses of the Austin metropolitan area. Deadline extended to renew is January 31, 2014 Call (512) 476-0082 To be included. For more information go to theaustinvillager.com