People's Filibuster in Texas

It was quite a scene at the Texas State Capital and will likely be one for the history books.

Here's the line from Leticia Van de Putte that provoked the first people's filibuster in Texas:

The applause in response to her statement began the people's filibuster where the chambers became so noisy, the Senate was unable to proceed.

Here's a clip from the rotunda.

No matter your point of view on the issue that provoked it, the People's Filibuster has proven it's efficacy.

Lt. Governor David Dewhurst called the people's response: "Occupy Wall Street tactics".

Power-washing City Hall During Occupy Austin

I received a call that the Austin City Council made the decision to have the mall in front of City Hall power-washed between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. The requirement was for all signage, equipment, tents, etc. be removed so that the city could clean.  Occupants were told they would be allowed to return after the cleaning.

Officers and occupiers were respectful and communicated with little confrontation throughout the process.  Occupiers were told that they should move across the street, which most complied with. 

 A lone occupier stays until the last moments.

 

The power-washing begins.

Initially, police had advised everyone that no one would be allowed on the sidewalks in front of City Hall. 

After discussions with occupiers, the police advised the crowd that they could be on the sidewalk as long as they did not impede traffic.

Four occupiers refused to vacate and were arrested without incident.  But not without some good humor.

 

  Of course, not all arrested were in such high spirits.

 All in all, the actions of the occupiers and the police made me proud to live in Austin.