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Vol. 43 No. 40 Phone: 512-476-0082 Email: [email protected] February 19, 2016 CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH INSIDE AUSTIN SPURS TO HONOR SHERIFF HAMILTON DURING BLACK HISTORY MONTH

RAPPIN’ AUSTIN, Texas (Feb. from Southwest Texas Tommy Wyatt 15, 2016) – The Austin State University (now Rep. Cummings Spurs, presented by Texas State University), proposed college SWBC, will honor Travis Hamilton began his career cost estimate act. Early Voting is County Sheriff Greg in 1985 as a corrections See HINOJOSA now underway Hamilton as they cel- officer in the Travis County Page 2 Sheriff’s Office, holding With the early voting ebrate Black History the positions of D.A.R.E. period now underway, it is Month at Cedar Park Cen- Officer, Mounted Patrol time for us to make our ter on Sunday, Feb. 28, and Corrections Officer II. endorsements for the when Austin faces the Hamilton was appointed March 1, 2016 elections. At Oklahoma City Blue at 5 Chief of Enforcement at this time we will be issuing p.m. the Texas Alcoholic Bever- our choices for the Sheriff Greg Charismatic leader age Commission (TABC) in Democratic Party candi- Hamilton is currently the advocated to end 1994 and was selected to dates for county races. highest-ranking law en- domestic hunger. serve on the governor’s One of the more crowded forcement officer in Travis See MICKEY DWI Task Force Advisory races in Travis County is County. After earning a Page 5 for the position of County degree in criminal justice TRAVIS COUNTY SHERIFF GREG HAMILTON See ELECTED, page 2 Commissioner, Precinct 1 with five candidates. This race has probably had the AUSTIN’S most attention by residents of Commissioner, Precinct AFRICAN AMERICAN 1. All of the candidates are Dr. Cokley evaluates very qualified for the COMMUNITY academic statistics position. And in a crowded among minorities. race, it is very difficult to HERITAGE FESTIVAL See KAZI get a majority vote in the Page 6 first election. There will The African American Heritage Community probably be a lot of people Festival welcomes the return of Grammy Award facing runoff elections. So, winning R&B sensation, Howard Hewett along for the first round here are with and coming indie artist, Chris Hayzel. State our choices: The family-fun east Austin Community festival TRAVIS COUNTY Comptroller’s DISTRICT ATTORNEY produced in conjunction with University and – Gary Cobb has worked in Homecoming Day festivities will be held Satur- Office the DA’s office for more day, February 27, 2016 from 1:00 to 5:00 PM at than 25 years and Huston-Tillotson University located at 900 East Complicates understands all of the Chicon St. Enjoy artists, cultural exhibits and Finding divisions of the office. local favorites at the event. Festival proceeds Travis County Com- Unclaimed missioner, Pct. 1 – Arthur support scholarships for Huston-Tillotson Uni- Sampson has spent more versity students. Funds than 30 years as project Courtesy of the manager and supervisor on North Dallas Gazette: road and highway Writer Nicole James Scott construction. The roads in NOT SAFE FOR CHURCH Finding money owed rural Precinct 1 are in need Author Rev. Jasmine Rose Smothers, welcomed to Austin by Spelman Alumnae to you with the State of a lot of construction and AUSTIN, TX - Comptroller’s Office used repair. Spelman College Alum- to be as simple as 1-2-3 Travis County Sherriff nae, welcomed Spelman but as of September the – No endorsement. grad Rev. Jasmine Rose process has become more Travis County Constable, Smothers to Austin on Fri- difficult. Unclaimed Precinct 1 – Danny day, February 12, with a money for years has been Thomas deserves to be dinner in her honor at a guaranteed way of cash- reelected to the position. Hoover’s Cooking. Rev. See There are other races that Smothers, in Austin this $4 BILLION UNCLAIMED, we will give our choices for weekend as a guest of the page 2 next week. In the mean- Capital Area District time, if you are voting early United Methodist Church be authentic and step up you may look at other (UMC), was the keynote to the challenges of serv- group’s endorsements to speaker to an audience of ing effectively in changing help you make your over 200 for the ReThink “Mission Fields”. decision. Church Leadership work- The dynamic Rev. However, you have only shop held at the Lake Smothers is a stellar ex- one more week to make up Travis UMC on Saturday ample of the Spelman your minds. But, if there and guest speaker Sunday motto – to equip young is only one person on the morning at the Wesley women “to make a choice ballot that you feel strongly United Methodist Church. to change the world”. We Friday February 12th - Rev. Jasmine Rose Smothers (Front Center) wel- about, go and vote for that Rev. Smothers is an invite young women in the comed to Austin by Spelman Alumnae & family including: (Front Row - L person. But whatever we Associate Director of Con- Central Texas area to ex- to R): Spelman Golden Girl Lois B. Dabney ’45, Sandray Perry, Rev. Smoth- do, all of us have a nectional Ministries of the plore the opportunities at ers, Judge Harriet Murphy, Lateefah Neal-Franks, (Back L to R) Anita E. responsibility to vote. North Georgia Annual Spelman College. Dabney , Austin Chapter Alumnae President; Jemelle Tankersley, LaShawn We are asking for a lot Conference of the United If you are interested Tankersley. of changes in many areas. Methodist Church. She in making a “Choice to The only way to get those serves as the staff re- tural congregations, Cross- ognized for her work in “NOT SAFE FOR CHURCH Change the World”, or changes considered is to source for existing Black Cultural/Racial appoint- Connectional Ministry, as – Ten Commandments for learning more about have the right person in Church Development, ments, and Young Clergy it applies to stimulating Reaching New Genera- Spelman College, please place to work on them. Natural Church Develop- leadership. churches in a transforming tions”. Her book and her check out the website: Let’s Vote!! ment, Multi-Ethnic/Cul- She is nationally rec- world. She is co-author of message urge Christians to www.spelman.edu/ Page 2 ~ THE VILLAGER/February 19, 2016 THE COMMUNIQUÉ www.theaustinvillager.com Cummings, Hinojosa Introduce Unclaimed Money in the State of Texas is Steadily Rising and has Hit an All Time High, Legislation to Make $4 billion College Costs More Transparent Bill Would Allow American Families to Make Informed Decisions When Selecting Colleges Washington, D.C. - “Students and their Today, Rep. Elijah E. families deserve reliable Screenshot of the comptroller.texas.gov website. One Cummings, Ranking Mem- information about the of their revolving banners post a “Come and Get It!” mes- ber of the House Commit- costs of attending college sage refering to nearlly $4 billion in unclaimed monies. tee on Oversight and Gov- in order to make informed CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 According to the All businesses enti- ernment Reform, and Rep. decisions,” Cummings ing in on some extra Texas Comptroller of Pub- ties as well as govern- Rubén Hinojosa (D-TX) in- said. “I hope Congress will funds for a number of citi- lic Accounts Annual Finan- ment institutions are re- troduced H.R. 4533, the pass this common-sense zens. The amount can cial Report of 2014, the quired by state law to re- Net Price Calculator Im- legislation—which passed vary from as little as unclaimed property fund port any funds or property provement Act of 2016, the House in 2014—and 25cents to thousands of received $460 million in when the rightful owner which would improve ex- send it to the President’s dollars and until recently gross revenues, made fails to claim it. However, isting calculators used by desk so we can increase to claim your funds all you $205 million in claimant until recently these busi- students and their families U.S. Rep. Elijah E. transparency and help had to do was go to payments and transferred nesses were not required to estimate the costs of Cummings (D-Md.) See NET PRICE, page 8 www.ClaimItTexas.org, $255 million to the gen- to provide the owner’s de- attending college. type in your name and eral fund. tails for properties under press search. If your name Unclaimed money in $50. So for example, in appeared you would fill out the state of Texas is 2014 the Comptroller’s of- a form and send it to the steadily rising and has hit fice received $9.5 million Comptroller’s office. an all time high, $4 billion reported as aggregate Now, if you visit the according to the State properties that could not site, it states funds under Comptroller’s Office. And be published, claimed, or $25 are not listed. So how what do they do with all of returned to rightful owners do you know if you have those funds when no one because the property was money that is owed to you claims them? According to reported without the if it’s not listed? How will the law, the State cannot owner’s information. This you go about claiming your use the funds, however restricted the ability of funds if the State’s website they can be used as a citizens’ ability to claim does not list them? It may source of state revenue. In ownership of their prop- seem like a trivial amount, other words, lawmakers erty. however last year alone can use these funds to in- It is not only the duty the Comptroller’s office flate their state budgets. and responsibility of the processed 34,000 claims Unclaimed money State to make any and all for funds less than $25. comes from a number of public information easily The Comptroller’s of- sources. Some of which assessable to consumers fice claims it is committed include: Dividend, payroll but also act in good faith. to transparency and keep- or cashier’s checks - By removing funds under ing its citizenry informed Stocks, mutual fund ac- $25 from its website the so why the change? Ac- counts, bonds - Utility de- State Comptroller’s Office cording to an official from posits and other refunds - is purposely engaging in the Comptroller’s office Bank accounts and safe trickery and disenfranchis- it’s a matter of numbers. deposit box contents - In- ing a large portion of Tex- The claim is, the average surance proceeds - Min- ans. As it happens, one in small claim is $10 and it eral interest or royalty pay- four Texans has money requires $13 to process ments - Court deposits, being held by the State each request, alluding to trust funds, escrow ac- Comptroller’s Office wait- the State losing money. counts. ing to be claimed Hamilton was Elected Sheriff of Travis County in 2004

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 elected sheriff of Travis the Mothers Against Drunk County in November of Driving (MADD) National Board from 1996 to 2004. He has served since College Commission Advi- 2000. He was then elected January of 2005 and an- sory Board and was hon- president of the National nounced in late 2015 that ored with the Liquor Law Enforcement he would not be seeking organization’s Difference Association (NLLEA) and reelection. In addition to Makers Award. was a recipient of their serving as sheriff, To join the Austin Law Enforcement Agency Hamilton is a national Spurs in celebrating Black of the Year Award in both speaker and trainer for the History Month and honor- 1996 and 2003. The Na- Office of Juvenile Justice ing Sheriff Greg Hamilton tional Association for the and Delinquency Preven- on this special night, Advancement of Colored tion (OJJDP) under the U.S. please visit People (NAACP) honored Department of Justice. He austinspurs.com, him with the Law Enforce- also helps ticketmaster.com or call ment Leadership Award. colleges prevent binge (512) 236-8333 for ticket Hamilton was drinking as a member of information. www.theaustinvillager.com THE BULLETIN THE VILLAGER/February 19, 2016 ~ Page 3 2016 PROFILES Huston-Tillotson University We Want YOU! OF PROMINENCE INDUCTEES TO BE Basketball Player Shai Fields Named Advertise With FETED BY AUSTIN Red River Athletic Conference Player The CHAPTER – NWOA VILLAGER By Arlene L. Youngblood of the Week AUSTIN, TX - The Country Boyz Fixin’s Austin Metroplex Chapter 4140 E. 12th Street, Austin, TX 78721 of National Women of Featuring Fish, Poboys, Hot Wings, Pork Chops, Achievement, Inc. will in- Homemade Gumbo, Shrimp and Alligator duct 15 honorees for the DINE IN OR ORDER TO GO Fourteenth Biennial Afri- Mon - Friday 11 am - 8 p.m. can- American Women’s Saturday - 12 noon - 8 p.m. Closed Sunday Profiles of Prominence Call (512) 928-5555 2016 ceremony (formerly *Mention this ad and get a FREE 20 oz. Drink* known as the Hall of Fame). This year’s pro- gram will be held on Sat- urday, March 26, 2016 at DOUBLE St. James Missionary Bap- tist Church, 3417 East Mar- tin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Austin, Texas at 6 p.m. “R” with a reception after- ward. The 15 new members of the 2016 African-Ameri- can Women’s Profiles of Shai Fields of Huston-Tillotson University (Texas) GROCERY Prominence are: *We cash ALL Tax Refund*Checks *Check Out WACO, Texas – Shai ons were Rod Nealy ARTS: Para Agboga – in a 100-89 loss to Texas Fields of Huston-Tillotson (Houston Baptist, 2003), 450l East Martin Luther King Blvd. Museum Site Coordinator College. Fields then University (Texas) stood out Ronnie Battle (Bacone, and Theatre Manager for erupted for 44 points with as the Red River Athletic 2010), and Xavier Ebenezer Baptist Church the Carver Museum and five three-pointers to Conference (RRAC) Men’s Roberson (Our Lady of 1010 East 10th Street 512-478-1875 Fax 512-478-1892 Cultural Center. spark a 107-96 road vic- Basketball Player of the the Lake, 2015). HT sits at Bus Ministry Call 512-478-1875 BUSINESS: Edna tory over University of St. Week for the dates of Feb. Thomas (Texas). For the 3-10 in conference play Sunday Services Brinkley, Ph.D., Licensed Worship Service 8:00 A.M. 8-14. This is the 14th weekly and 6-15 on the season. Psychologist for The week, he connected on 23- Sunday School 9:00 A.M. award of the 2015-16 bas- of-53 field goal attempts Additional nomi- Discipleship Training 10:00 A.M. Brinkley Center and Board Worship Service 11:00 A.M. ketball season. and 25-of-30 free throws. nees included Cory Jones Member for Alliance for Wednesday Fields averaged 39.0 (Wiley), Curtis Jones African-American Health With a nation-leading 28.3 Midweek Prayer Service 7:00 P.M. points per game as the points per game on the (Langston), Joe Jackson Dr. Ricky Freeman, Child Development Center in Central Texas. Ages 0-5 years (Daily) 512-478-6709 Rams split a pair of confer- (Our Lady of the Lake), Pastor CIVIC LEADERSHIP: season, Fields is vying to ence contests last week. Chris Key (Jarvis Chris- · Vonnye Rice- become the fourth RRAC Mount Sinai Missionary Baptist Church The junior guard from tian), Brian Sylvester (LSU Gardner, Adjunct Profes- men’s basketball player to 5900 Cameron Road Austin, Texas 78723-1843 Houston accounted for 34 Alexandria), and Josh (512) 451-0808 (512) 302-4575 Fax sor for Austin Community win the NAIA scoring title. points and five rebounds Walker (LSU Shreveport). Web Site - www.themount.net College and Travis County Previous scoring champi- WORSHIP SERVICES Historical Commission vol- sity and published author. PROFESSIONAL of Links, Inc. and Jack and Sunday Worship - 7:45 a.m. & 11 a.m. unteer. HEALTH PROFES- LEADERSHIP: Ita Ufot, En- Jill of America, Inc. Church School - 9:45 a.m. Bible Studies - Mon, 6:30 p.m. & Wed., 12 noon · Opal Irving – re- SIONS: Judith Whitmire vironmental Engineering CAREGIVER: Wednesday Night Worship - 7 p.m. tired county agent for Enders, M.D., pediatrician Consultant and American Deborah Duncan, Program “Ministries For Mankind” Luke 4:18 Texas Agricultural Exten- for Austin Regional Clinic Red Cross Disaster Relief Coordinator for the Aus- A.W.. Anthony Mays, Senior Pastor sion Services and Austin and medical ministry vol- volunteer. tin/Travis County Health Food Bank volunteer. unteer for Greater Mt. PUBLIC SERVICE: and Human Services Pub- Agape Baptist Church COMMUNICATIONS: Zion Baptist Church. Doris J. Williams, Retired lic Health Division and In “The Centre” Bldg. F-15 7801 N. Lamar Blvd. (SE Corner of N Lamar and 183) AGAPE is a chuch for all people. “Where Jesus Christ is Magnified and the love He Linda Y. Jackson, Director LAW: Lieutenant Colonel for the Friendly Visitor and Care exhibited is Exemplified.” Come, receive God’s unconditional lovefor you. of University Relations for · Sandra Fitzpatrick, United States Army and Giver volunteer who pro- For there is no greater love! Huston-Tillotson Univer- J.D., Associate Judge for Substitute Teacher for the vides Faith-Based Services Church Services sity and Southern Regional Pflugerville Independent to Homebound individu- Sunday School 9:30 AM the City of Round Rock and Sunday Worship 11:00 AM Youth Coordinator for Zeta Austin Lawyers Care vol- School District. als. Mid-Week Service Thursday: Praise, Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. unteer. YOUTH ACHIEVE- This year’s honorary Prayer and Bible Study 7:00 PM EDUCATION: MENT: Mikaila Ulmer, chair is Dr. Gregory J. Rev. H. Ed Calahan Call 454-1547 for Transporation · Kimberly Wilson- Pastor Website www.agapebcaustintx.com Rosalee Martin, Ph.D., So- Vincent, J.D. – Attorney for Founder and Chief Execu- Vincent, Vice-President, ciology Professor and Act- The Fowler Law Firm, PC tive Officer of BeeSweet Division of Diversity and A Ministry That Ministers ing Dean for the College of and board member for the Lemonade and a student Community Engagement Arts and Sciences for Capital Area AIDS Legal at Trinity Episcopal School. for The University of Texas Huston -Tillotson Univer- Project. LIFETIME ACHIEVE- at Austin. MENT: Susie E. Sansom- An independent se- lection review commit- Piper, Retired Educator, Globalizing the Gospel free-lance historical writer tee, composed of mem- 1179 San Bernard Street, Edward M. Fleming, Austin, TX 78702, 512-478-7023 for The Rockdale Reporter bers of the Greater Aus- Sr. Pastor Sunday Morning Bible Study, 9:00 A.M. and musician for the St. tin Community, selected Sunday Morning Worship, 10:15 A.M. OLIVET BAPTIST James Missionary Baptist the inductees. The pub- Visit our website @ www.obcaus.org CHURCH Church Goldenaires. lic is invited. For more in- AWARD OF MERIT: formation about the DAVID CHAPEL Missionary Baptist Church Dorothy Madison, Retired event, email Austin.nwoa SUNDAY | Christian Education 9:15a.m. Educator, and a member @gmail.com. Worship 10:30 a.m. (MLK) Nursery Available Villager Youth Brigade will be taking sponsorships Do you have church news? Would you like to TUESDAY | TNT Bible Study starting summer of 2015.Your support has been purchase a monthly ad for your church? (Pflugerville) 6:45p.m. much appreciated over the years. Please continue Inquire TODAY! WEDNESDAY | Prayer & Praise 7:00p.m. to invest in Austin’s youth. We look forward to Bible Study 7:30p.m. another successful year with some promising Send your information to [email protected] students. FMI Call 512-476-0082 or call 512-476-0082 Dr. Joseph C. Parker, Jr. 512-472-9748 www.davidchapel.org Senior Pastor 2211 E.MLK @ Chestnut St. Austin, TX 78702 La Génération des Vainqueurs Olive Branch Fellowship of Austin / All Faith Chapel 4110 Guadalupe St Bldg #639 Austin, TX 78751 Ministry Church Sunday Morning This life, therefore, is not righteous- Imani Community Church Worship @ 11: am ness, but growth in righteousness; not health, Davis Elementray Auditorium 5214 West Duval Road Tuesday - Friday: 3pm -10pm but healing; not being, but becoming; not rest, but exercise. We are not yet what we shall be, Walking and Appointment Sunday School 9:00 A.M. but we are growing toward it. The process is Prophetess Wednesday Bible Study | 7:45pm Worship Service 10:00 A.M. not yet finished, but it is going on. This is not •Power Hour Bible Life Group 6:00 P.M. Stephanie N’Cho Friday Prayer |7:45pm the end, but it is the road. All does not yet Associate Pastor Sunday Service | 10:00am gleam in glory, but all is being purified. Imani Complex & Office, --- Martin Luther 11800 Mustang at Duval Austin, Texas 78727 469-226-4679 | www.vainqueurs.org Romans 5:1 Therefore,having been justified by faith, we have peace Visit:imanichurch.com 805 S. Sherman St. Richardson, TX 75081 Kenneth Hill, Pastor with God through our Lord Jesus Christ Rev. Dr. Jacquelyn Donald-Mims Office: 512-343-9300 GRACEWAY CHRISTIAN CHURCH St. Peter’s United Methodist Church The Church of Pentecost Felix Bamirin, Pastor 4509 Springdale Road Austin, Tx 78723 Leading People to Experience God’s Love, Know Jesus Christ & Grow in His Image Office 512- 926-1686 Fax 512-929-7281 Worship: Sunday-- The Church of Pentecost, USA Inc, JOIN US This SUNDAY / THURSDAY Christian Web Site- 10:00 am - 12:30 pm Austin offers a wide variety of opportuni- @ 12424 Scofield Farms Drive, Austin, TX 78758 stpetersaustintx.ning.com Tuesday Bible Studies-- ties for children, youth, adults, and older [email protected] 7:30pm - 9:00 pm adults to be involved in worship, spiritual THE PLACE WHERE WE STEP OUT ON FAITH. (By Parmer Lane Baptist Church building, behind Wells Fargo) Friday Prayers-- growth, education, community outreach, COME AND STEP OUT ON FAITH WITH US 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm SUNDAYS 10:30 A.M., THURSDAYS 7:30 P.M. Sunday School 8:45 a.m. and making a tangible difference to those Praise and Worship 10:15 a.m. 7801 N. Lamar Blvd, in need in our community. You too, can Experience Grace For Life Wednesday Bible Study 12:00 p.m. Suite D 102, make a positive difference in our commu- and Praise /Bible Study 6:30 p.m. Austin, Texas 78752 Call: 682.472.9073 l Email: [email protected] l Rev. Jack C. Gause (to include Children’s Choir Rehersaland nity through your prayers, your presence, Visit: www.gracewaycca.org Pastor Bible Study with age appropiate Activities) Tel: 512 302-1270 your gifts, your service, and your witness. Page 4 ~ THE VILLAGER/February 19, 2016 YOUTH BRIGADE www.theaustinvillager.com

Youth of Today Hope of Tomorrow

1st African American Female Pilot Black History Month Kids Day 2016 Dunk Contest left Texas in 1920 to go to was a demo of Dance France to become a pilot. Discovery's pre-school seemingly impossible There she completed flight dance class presented by dunks. Zach LaVine, the training at the best school Mrs.Lisa. The story read 2015 Dunk Contest cham- in France and was was called "Chocolate pion, and newcomer, awarded her Federation Me!" It was read by Ms. Aaron Gordon quickly blew Aéronautique Interna- Doreen Boyd, the Carver past the first two rounds tional License on June 15, Library's managing librar- and faced off in the cham- 1921. She traveled Europe, ian. I participated with 2 pionship round. LaVine gaining further flying ex- other family members has a registered 41.5 inch perience so that she could and we all agreed that it vertical leap and Gordon Kevin Parish perform in air shows. Af- was a very fun activity. has a registered 39 inch Park Crest M.S. ter 10 months of perfect- My favorite part was the vertical leap. ing her skills she became SaNaya White drumming because each The championship Ann Richards was thrilling and entertain- For black history the first licensed African and every time I tapped Ira “T.J.” Williams ing from the moment it month I am writing about American pilot. When she Last Saturday, Feb- the head of the drum I felt Cedar Ridge H. S. Bessie Coleman. She was returned to the U.S she ruary 13th was a special like I was telling pieces started. Aaron Gordon per- born in , Texas on performed a series of air day for the kids of Austin of an untold story. I felt On Saturday, Febru- formed three dunks where January 26, 1892. Educa- shows. On April 30, 1926, TX. This was a time to like I was just able to tune ary 13th, 2016, the NBA he jumped over the Or- tion for Coleman was lim- Coleman and her me- enjoy learning about and out all the other drum- (National Basketball Asso- lando Magic’s mascot. ited only to the eighth chanic William D. Wills being involved in their mers and play my own ciation) held their All-Star However, Zach LaVine took grade. When she was were test flying and a culture/heritage. It was drum! It was an amazing Skills Night in Toronto, over the contest by execut- done with school she wrench got stuck in the special because it was experience for me and Ontario, Canada. The ing three dunks from the worked as a laundress to gearbox and jammed it, the first time kids had the hopefully for others. event was filled with some free throw line. The con- get enough money to at- sending the plane twisting chance to go and learn A lot of people at- of the league’s best and test had to go into two ex- tend Langston University. downward. Bessie information about their tended, but if you did not brightest stars doing what tra rounds because the After one year at Coleman was not wearing past. The activities were get the opportunity to at- they do best. However, the two contestants kept tying Langston, she had to leave a seat belt so she was held at The George tend this year because highlight of the evening scores. But in the end, because she ran out thrown and died instantly. Washington Carver Mu- you did not know about it was the Verizon Slam Dunk Zach LaVine came out on money. After working and Her mechanic William D. seum, Cultural and Gene- or you did not think it Contest. top and won his second, saving enough money she Wills died in impact. alogy Center located at would be fun and inter- Four contestants consecutive dunk contest. 1165 Angelina Street Aus- esting. I recommend you from different teams com- These two athletes have "Remember Who You Are" tin, TX 78702. Some of go next year because I peted by showing their tre- brought back the excite- the activities that took really enjoyed it. Find a mendous leaping ability ment and intensity to the English teacher and and place were African Drum- activity that opens you up while pulling off fancy and NBA Dunk Contest. taught in the 20's - 40's. ming, photo-grams, mu- to your culture and She did not aprove of the sic, crafts, dance, and shows you who you really Kid’s Day use of bad grammar. She story time. are. "Play Your Own advocated for busing Afri- The dance activity Drum!" The activities that they had can American students to was: African drumming, Austin, TX so they could Louis Jacques Daguerre crafts inspired by black his- get a better high school tory month, a Chocolate Me! education. Caldwell El- are Boulevard du Temple, Story time, etc. They had a ementary School in Architectural Study, and Ava Roberts Juneteenth scavenger hunt Pflugerville was named in Linterieurd’ un Palais Spring Hill Elementary for which you had to answer her honor. Medieval. As a child some questions about the Fannie Mae Caldwell Mrs. Caldwell was a Daguerre lived in Bry-sur- end of slavery, the Emanci- was born a slave on May native of Pflugerville, TX! Marne, France. During pation proclamation and 1, 1900. She became an She died on May 13, 2004. his life as a painter he Juneteenth. They had a lot assisted Pierre Prevost ( of volunteers from Sarah Robertson 1764 – 1823) in the ex- AmeriCorps to help out with Athlos Leadership Acad. Valentine's Day ecution panoramic views the kids day. Valentine’s Day, my school of Rome Italy, London This past Saturday I I really enjoyed going hosted a Valentine’s Day England, Jerusalem Israel went to an event called Kids and celebrating Kids Day at and Athens Greece, Be- dance. It was pretty fun Zachariah Washington Day at the Carver museum. the Carver Museum. I would cause of political up- and a lot of my friends Crockett High School Kids day was on Saturday, really hope that everyone were there. It was also the heaval during and after February 13, 2016 for the would get a chance to go to first dance where one of “The daguerreotype the Revolution, young purpose to let kids know the Carver Museum and li- my friends didn’t start cry- is not merely an instru- Louis’ formal education and learn some interesting brary to see the importance ing halfway through. It was ment which serves to was limited and inconsis- facts about black history. of black culture. literally the best dance of draw Nature; on the con- tent. He did, however, the year until they stopped trary it is a chemical and show a talent for draw- Dino and Rock N Roll Plays it early. My friends said it physical process which ing, and at 13 became was because there was a gives her the power to apprenticed to an archi- of the other dinosaurs. I Genesis Stiggers fight but one fight is such reproduce herself.” This tect. According to some think that my music teacher Elgin Middle School an unfair reason to stop quote is from the lighting accounts, he also worked was trying to go by the grade the whole dance. Anyway, and photographer aspect as a customs official levels. The third grade play As you know Febru- I believe the dance was of the Daguerreotype one early in his career. When ended with a lot of kids do- ary 14th is Valentine’s Day. awesome and fun no mat- of Daguerre’s invention Daguerre created the Da- ing flips and cartwheels all For me, my Valentine’s ter what people say. which I will explain later. guerreotype in 1839 his across the stage! Day was pretty good. Al- Every Valentine’s Louis Jacques focus was not on theater The fourth graders also though I had to start the Day I think about what it Daguerre was born on per say but towards Pho- had a play but it was a rock day off doing chores, I got will look like next year. Will November 18, 1787 to tography. Daguerre’s n roll play!! My music to spend the night at my I still go to dances? Or will two loving parents by the contribution was unique teacher came up with most best friends house. I had I be one of those snobby name of Anna Antoinette because he was the first of the songs we sung in the Hauterre and Louis person to create image a lot of fun and there was eight-graders who think Malakhi Washington play. I was a disco dancer, Jacques Daguerre. Louis photography and created a lot of games we played that all school dances are Cunningham Elementary and everyone loved it!! The that I will play later on. I stupid like my sister was Jacques Daguerre died projection on the stage two plays were alike be- also had a blast playing last year? I have no idea on July 10, 1851. Origi- so now we can project Last week my school cause there was a lot of with their dog Molly. Al- what Valentine’s Day will nally Daguerre was things using lights and had a play about dinosaurs dancing and singing, but though I had to leave the look like next year, but I do trained as painter and images because of for all of the third graders. with two different themes. next morning, they had know that I won’t be one during his lifetime he cre- Daguerre’s invention. The play was funny, be- I really enjoyed myself! I caught a live possum in an of those girls who sits back ated beautiful and mar- The Diorama was unique cause there were a lot of could really tell that all of animal trap, which was waiting for a boy they like velous painting. because without his in- funny jokes. My art teacher the third and second grad- also the closest I’ve ever to ask them out, because Daguerre was first occu- vention we could not use made different Dinosaur ers put a lot of hard work been to a possum. boys are annoying! Have a pied as an inland rev- 3d perspective and see hats for the kids and they into it!!! I know that the On February 12th, great Valentine’s Day and enue officer. Some of his things many different were soo cute! They sang next plays are going to be or the Friday before I’ll see you later. most famous artworks angles. songs about rapters and all great!! www.theaustinvillager.com THE COURIER THE VILLAGER/February 10, 2016 ~ Page 5 Black History Month George “Mickey” Leland: A Fighter 200 years and that's placed into one month. I don't even recognize this Against World Wide Hunger "Black history month" stuff someone made up. I George Thomas each succeeding Congress “Mickey” Leland was celebrate black history until his death in August America's most effective 1989. month, every month be- spokesman for hungry As he visited soup cause they don't teach it at people in the United States kitchens and makeshift shel- school. The only thing they and throughout the world. ters, he became increasingly teach at school is how my During six terms in the Con- concerned about the hungry people were put in slavery gress, six years as a Texas and homeless. The work for Damon Luckett II routes. state legislator and, Demo- which he is best remem- Hays High School Black history month is cratic National Committee bered began when Leland just a fancy way for differ- official, he focused much co-authored legislation with Black history month ent races to say, "we get needed attention on issues Rep. Ben Gilman (R-NY) to es- shouldn't be Black history that black people had a bad of health and hunger and ral- tablish the House Select lied support that resulted in month. My history past". To me, there is no Committee on Hunger. both public and private ac- Speaker Thomas P. "Tip" shouldn't be placed in Feb- Black history month. Noth- tion. Leland combined the O'Neil named Leland chair- ruary only. My people ing on earth could make me skills of the charismatic man when it was enacted in were taken from our home feel comfortable with put- leader with the power of a 1984. The Select country for a distribution ting pain and hurt of my his- sophisticated behind-the- Committee's mandate was idea called slavery for over tory in one month. scenes congressman. He ma- to "conduct a continuing, tured during his years in Con- comprehensive study and gress into a brilliantly effec- review of the problems of Stokely Carmichael tive and influential advocate hunger and malnutrition." for food security and health Although it had no leg- mous slogan, “Black care rights for every human islative jurisdiction, the com- Power!". Stokely was a tre- being. When Mickey Leland George “Mickey” Leland mittee, for the first time, pro- mendous student and was died in 1989, he was Chair- November 27, 1944 - August 7, 1989 vided a single focus for hun- offered many scholarships man of the House Select ger-related issues. The to predominantly white Committee on Hunger. His low-income consumers with ber of the House Appropria- committee's impact and in- schools, but he chose committee studied the prob- access to affordable generic tions Committee. fluence would stem largely Howard University be- lems associated with domes- drugs. He also supported the Congressman Leland from Con- gressman Leland's cause of its black history. tic and international hunger creation of health care ac- was elected in November ability to generate aware- Stokely was elected na- and then delivered the prac- cess through Health Mainte- 1978 to the United States ness of complex hunger al- tical solution of food. tional chairman of the nance Organizations house of Representatives leviation issues and exert his Early Life and Education (HMO's). To accomplish his from the 18th Congressional personal moral leadership. In SNCC (Student Nonviolent George Thomas "Mickey" goals in Austin, he served on District of Houston, Texas. addition to focusing atten- Coordinating Committee, Averill Topps Leland, III, was born on No- the Texas State Labor Com- His congressional district in- tion on issues of hunger, his it was a very important O. Henry Middle School vember 27, 1944, in Lub- mittee, State Affairs Commit- cluded the neighborhood legislative initiatives would student Civil Rights group) bock, Texas, to Alice and tee, Human Resources Com- where he had grown up, and create the National Commis- Hello everybody, to- in May 1966. Stokely was George Thomas Leland, II. At mittee, Legislative Council, he was recognized as a sion on Infant Mortality, bet- day I am going to talk an inspired orator, persua- an early age, he, along with and Subcommittee on Occu- knowledgeable advocate for ter access to fresh food for about a black man named sive essayist, effective or- his mother and brother (Wil- pational and Industrial health,children and elderly. at-risk women, children and Stokely Carmichael. Be- ganizer and expansive liam Gaston Leland), took up safety. Leland was also His leadership abilities were infants, and the first compre- fore I do that though I thinker. He was also the residence in the Fifth Ward elected Vicd Chair of the quickly noted in Washington hensive services for the want to talk about a big honorary prime minister of Houston, Texas. Joint Committee on Prison and he was chosen Freshman homeless. Growing up in a pre- event coming up at my for the Black Panther Reform. He was the African- Majority Whip in his first Biography provided by dominately African American American legislator to serve term, and later served twice the Mickey Leland Center on school. At O'Henry we are Party. Stokely died on No- and Hispanic neighborhood, on the Senate-House confer- as At-Large Majority Whip. World Hunger & Peace at about to have STARR tests vember 15, 1988 and will Leland's first experience with ence Committee as a mem- Leland was re-elected to Texas Southern University. (a test to show how much be remembered forever. the "public" was in a segre- you’ve learned over the Well that's all for to- gated public school. Leland school year). I am kind of day but I will be back next showed early promise as a nervous, but I know I will week to tell you more student, however. He ranked do a good job. about what goes on at my in the top ten percent of his Stokely Carmichael school and the latest local class when he graduated in was a U.S. civil right activ- news. Until Next Time... 1964 from Philis Wheatley ist who made the very fa- Go O'Henry Mustangs! High School in Houston, Texas. While attending TSU (Texas Southern University) in the late sixties, Leland Southern University's School of Pharmacy in 1970 with a Bachelor of Science in Phar- macy. He served as an In- structor of Clinical Pharmacy at his alma mater from 1970- 71, and set up a "door to door" outreach campaign in low-income neighborhoods to inform people about their medical care options and to perform preliminary screen- ings. During the same period Mickey Leland organized and led the Black Citizens Action Teams ("Black Cats") to pro- test against police brutality. During the admin- istration of President Front Row: Erika Lipscomb and Leonard O. Spearman, Leland received an honorary February guest speaker Mr. Justin doctorate degree from Texas Humphreys; Back Row: Wesley Southern University. He mar- ried the former Alison Clark Dickerson, Kevin Parish, Ava Walton, a Georgetown Uni- Roberts, Latrice Lipscomb, Jarian versity law student, in 1983. Congressman Leland fa- Galloway, SaNaya White and Sarah thered three children, Jarrett Robertson. Photo by Angela Wyatt David (born February 6, 1986) and twins, Austin Mickey and Cameron George UT System Invests $2M to (born January 14, 1990, after Leland's death). Expand ‘Engineer Your World’ Leland's Political Ca- and Offer College Credit to reer In 1972, Mickey Leland was elected to the Texas High School Students House of Representatives from the 88th District of AUSTIN, Texas — The University of Texas System Houston, Texas. He served in Board of Regents has invested $2 million to expand The the Texas Legislature until University of Texas at Austin’s Engineer Your World pro- 1978. In Austin, Leland be- gram to better prepare high school students for college came famous as the cham- engineering programs and allow them to receive college pion of health care rights for credits. For more information, contact: the poor. Leland was largely responsible for the passage [email protected] or visit of legislation that provided engineeryourworld.org/ Page 6 ~ THE VILLAGER/February 19, 2016 HEADLINES www.theaustinvillager.com African American Teen Shot Dead by the APD “BACK IN by Tsoke THE DAY” (Chuch) Adjavon | therefore had no gun was police shooting. Numer- Villager Columnist still deemed to be a ous questions have been An African threat by the officer. Ac- raised, such as, “Why American Monday, February 8, cording to the Austin Po- couldn’t the officer use a Heritage and 2016, an African Ameri- lice Department, the “stunt gun” or shot the Biblical History can teen named David shooting death occurred teen in a non-life threat- Celebration Joseph was shot dead by “outside the dash board ening location. Despite, the responding Austin camera of the officer and the fact that officer who HAS BEEN Police Officer. After re- consequently there is no shot the teen was also an CANCELLED sponding to the “distur- video evidence of this African American, the bance scene,” the APD deadly encounter. Just equation of APD’s over FOR shot and killed the teen, recently, there have been usage of deadly force SATURDAY, David Joseph. According to numerous police forums should change. In other FEB. 20TH the APD officer, David Jo- in Austin calling for the words, it points to the seph did not follow need to equip all police fact that the APD’s train- AND IS BEING APD Chief Art Acevedo through to his commands officers with body cam- ing regardless to their RESCHEDULED and consequently, the of- eras. However, there has After the recent race, still tends to be FOR ficer used “deadly force”. not been any APD officer shooting, a lot of con- more aggressive when Although, David Jo- “officially wearing body cerned citizen groups have David Joseph dealing with Black/Afri- ANOTHER seph was “naked” and cameras.” visibly expressed their “outcry” to yet another can American suspects. DAY. KAZI Early Voting Has Begun by Tsoke one can see, there are nu- (Chuch) Adjavon | Host merous races that the voters Villager Columnist must pay close attention to Annual After months of cam- while casting their votes. paigning, the polls in Central In the 345th District Book his book. He mentioned Texas have finally opened Court Race, both candidates that his book “debunk” a up. For these election cycles, are vying to replace former Judge Stephen Yelenoski. lot of statements in Central Texan voters espe- cially, Democrats have a long The 345th District Court is a Review which conservatives have list of candidates on the bal- “civil matter” that deals with stated that African lot. Since, this is “the presi- non-felony cases. One can- Club American students don’t dential year of elections”, didate, Jan Soifer is consid- want to perform aca- ered to be the “establish- by Tsoke the experts are believing demically. According to ment” candidate while Me- (Chuch) Adjavon | that more people will go out Professor Cokley, “the lissa Mather is considered to Villager Columnist to the polls. data points that African On the top of the bal- be “non-establishment” American students are lots it will be between Ma- candidate. So far, Jan Soifer On February 15, eager to learn as much as dame Secretary Hillary the former Travis County Party Chair has received all 2016, KAZI with Hopeton others.” UT Austin Professor Clinton versus Senator Candidate Eldridge Hays held their habitual Prior from writing Kevin Cokley Bernie Sanders who are the endorsements from the various Democratic Party book review at the his book, he had written both running for the White sioner Race, the Constable lectualism.” It uses Afri- Race, Travis County District clubs. On the other hand, Pflugerville Public library. numerous essays in re- House. In addition, there are can American identities numerous “down ballot Attorney Race, the 345th Melisa Mather has not re- For this show, a Univer- gards of African Ameri- as the framework to un- races” such as the Travis District Court Race and the ceived much support from sity of Texas, at Austin, can and Education. Just derstand academic County Precinct Commis- 450th District Court Race. As the party. Professor Mr. Kevin recently, he wrote a achievements.It also ex- Cokley was their guest for book. Dr. Cokley stated poses the bias of “deficit the Book Review Club. that his book, “The Myth thinking” that presumes Mr. Kevin Coakely was in- of Black Anti-Intellectual- that under-achievement vited to talk about the ism” provides, “a com- among black students is book he recently wrote prehensive and critical related to deficiencies in called “The Myth of Black examination of black motivation, intelligence, Anti-Intellectualism”. identity and its implica- culture, or socialization”. At the book review, tions for black academic Dr. Cokley is a pro- Dr. Cokley spoke about achievement and intel- fessor in the Department of Educational Psychol- ogy as well as the Depart- ment of African and Afri- can American Diaspora Studies. Dr. Kevin Cokley “encompasses numerous facets of African Ameri- can psychology. Specifi- cally, Dr. Cokley re- searches racial and eth- nic identity development and correlates of aca- demic achievement such as academic self-con- cept” www.theaustinvillager.com CLASSIFIEDS THE VILLAGER/February 19, 2016 ~ Page 7 EMPLOYMENT | PROPOSALS | PUBLIC INFORMATION FOR SALE | FOR RENT | BIDS | MISCELLANEOUS The Winners of the ’47th NAACP Image Awards’ Announced Live by Naomi Richard | The Austin Villager Newspaper Loretta Devine, Shonda Rhimes, Omari Hardwick, The winners of the “47th NAACP Image Awards” Wendy Raquel Robinson, Sanaa Lathan, RonReaco Lee, were announced during the live broadcast from Pasa- Keke Palmer, Teyonah Parris, Michael Ealy, Tom Joyner, dena Civic Auditorium which aired on TV One (9-11 p.m. LeToya Luckett, Ken Jeong, F. Gary Gray and more. Also ET live/PT tape-delayed) on February 5, 2016. The two- expected are cast members from “Empire” – Terrence hour live special was hosted by Anthony Anderson. Howard, Taraji P. Henson, , Bryshere Gray, There was a one-hour live pre-show from the red car- Grace Gealy, Trai Byers, Serayah, Gabourey Sidibe, pet hosted by Terrence Jenkins and Tracey Edmonds. Ta’Rhonda Jones, Kaitlin Doubleday, Lee Daniels, Danny NAACP Chairwoman Rosyln Brock presented the Strong and more. NAACP Chairman’s Award to Brittany “Bree” Newsome; The winners of the “47th NAACP Image Awards” in Justice League NYC; Concerned Student 1950 Collec- the non-televised categories were announced during a tive at the University of Missouri, Columbia; The Uni- gala dinner celebration that took place Thursday, Feb- versity of Mississippi NAACP College Chapter; Rev. Dr. ruary 4, 2016, at the Pasadena Conference Center – the Otis Moss III; Rev. Dr. Howard-John Wesley; Rev. Dr. event was hosted by Affion Crockett and Nischelle , and Jussie Smollett. Turner. The awards dinner included a special tribute to NAACP President Cornell William Brooks pre- Julian Bond, former Chairman of the NAACP. sented the NAACP President’s Award to John Legend. The NAACP Image Awards is the premiere Some of the biggest names in film, television and multicultural awards show. It celebrates the accomplish- music appeared including Viola Davis, Gabrielle Union, ments of people of color in the fields of television, mu- Gina Rodriguez, Kerry Washington, Morris Chestnut, Ice sic, literature and film, and also honors individuals or Cube, LL Cool J, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Tika Sumpter, groups who promote social justice through creative en- Keegan-Michael Key, O’Shea Jackson Jr., Jurnee deavors. Smollett-Bell, Chadwick Boseman, Shameik Moore, For a complete list of the 47th NAACP Image Award Abraham Attah, Michael B. Jordan, Tracee Ellis Ross, winners, visit www.naacpimageawards.net. The City of Austin Announces 6 Week Michael B. Jordan poses in the press room with Summer Internship for High Schoolers his awards for outstanding actor in a motion picture The City of Austin will iors and seniors. It’s a six kids for “Creed” and entertainer of the year at the 47th have summer youth em- week internship, 20 hours, In the meantime, NAACP Image Awards at the Pasadena Civic Audi- ployment for rising high and paying $8 per hour. please join us at our Tues- torium on Friday, Feb. 5, 2016, in Pasadena, Calif. school sophomores, jun- www.AustinTexas.gov/ day, March 8, 2016 meet- (Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP) ing at 6 PM at St. James REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Baptist Church, 3417 Mar- DPR Construction will receive Subcontractor and Material Vendor proposals for an ‘early- tin Luther King Drive, Aus- release’ civil package (surface parking lots), as part of the Charles Schwab Corporate tin, Texas 78721. Please Campus project, located at 2309 Gracy Farms Lane in Austin, Texas. Proposals will be accepted on or before March 1, 2016 at 2:00 PM CST. Proposal packages include the “Like” and “Invite” your following trades: friends to like the • Erosion Control & Tree Protection www.Facebook.com/ City of Austin Featured Job BlackLivesMatterAustin Opportunities • Site Demolition page. The City of Austin is currently accepting • Earthwork Save the Dates: SXSW applications for the following positions: Second • Asphalt Paving Line Music March at 10:16 • Public Event Worker, (15 Temporary Positions) • Parking Striping / Parking Signage / Parking Bumpers AM on March 19, 2016 starting at the Historic Vic- • Community Recreation Activity • Street End Barricades tory Grill, 1104 East 11th Specialist • Site Concrete Street, Austin, Texas 78702. Protest at the Cor- • Lifeguard (100 Temporary/Seasonal • Site Caulking & Sealants rections Corporation of America’s Austin Transi- Openings) • Site Utilities (Storm Only) tional Center on March 21, • Facility Service Coordinator • Landscaping (Trees Only) & Irrigation 2016 at 12 PM Noon in honor of the historic pro- • Misc. Sub-Tier Electrical (please note that the Electrical scope of work for • IT Application Developer Senior and IT test of Robert Sobukwe of this project was awarded under a previous bid package) Application Developer (2 Openings) South Africa protesting For additional information, or to obtain project documents, please contact Mark Gray at mass incarceration of • Street & Bridge Operations Crew Lead [email protected], or Ryan Krogstad at [email protected] (512) 345-7699. Blacks. Subcontractors and Material Vendors are encouraged to attend one of the two scheduled • Power System Engineer Senior pre-bid conferences to be held at DPR’s main office, located at 9606 MoPac Expressway Big Estate Sale for North, Suite 300, Austin, TX 78759: Please visit the City of Austin employment • Lorene Lofton February 23, 2016 @ 2:00 PM CST, or website at www.austincityjobs.org to view When: Friday Feb 19 • requirements and apply for these and other job February 24, 2016 @ 2:00 PM CST and Sat Feb 20 opportunities. We encourage you to check the DPR Construction is an EEO Employer and all HUB and M/WBE Subcontractors and Where: 2205 S L Davis Material Vendors are strongly encouraged to submit proposals for this project. Avenue employment website often as new job Time: 9am-2pm opportunities are posted daily. Selling: Hats, purses, If you have any questions or need assistance, clothing, shoes, please call 512-974-3210 or email us at handkerchiefs, [email protected]. appliances, and much The City of Austin is an Equal Opportunity Employer. more Cash Only, please

City of Austin Purchasing Office

The City of Austin Purchasing Office invites New Jobs for the Week of 02/14/2016 you to view current bid solicitations at https:// Cashier www.ci.austin.tx.us/financeonline/ Multiple Locations Job# 1602008 vendor_connection/solicitation/solicitations.cfm. Cashier Vendors are encouraged to register on-line in the Multiple Locations Job# 1602003 City’s Vendor Self Service System. Once your Technician, Science Lab-Part- company is registered, you will receive notifica- Time (75%) Pinnacle Campus tions about new bid opportunities. For additional Job# 1602007 information regarding current bid opportunities Technician, Heating Ventilation & Air-Conditioning or Vendor Registration, please call the Purchas- Service Center Job# 1602005 ing Office at 512-974-2500. Faculty, Technical Welding For information on the City of Austin’s Mi- Round Rock Campus Job# 1602002 nority Owned and Women-Owned Procurement Apply at HR Program and the certification process, please Middle Fiskville Rd. 6th Floor, Austin, TX 78752 contact the Small & Minority Business Resources Job Line (512 223-5621 Department at 512-974-7600 or visit their website hhtp://www./austincc.ed EEOC/AA/M/F/D/V at http://www.austintexas.gov/smbr. Page 8 ~ THE VILLAGER/February 19, 2016 THE DISPATCH www.theaustinvillager.com The Net Price Calculator Improvement Act of 2016 would require higher education institutions to display prominently on their websites the costs of expenses Continued from page 2

BALTIMORE (Jan. 9, 2007) Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) The Honorable Dr. Donald C. Winter, right, U.S. Rep. Elijah E. Cummings (D-Md.), Maritime Industries Academy Principal Kevin Brooks, and students of the academy sing the national anthem. Secretary Winter and Rep. Cummings spoke to approxi- mately 300 students at the academy about career opportunities in the Navy and Marine Corps. The academy is designed to prepare students on a job-readiness track for maritime related industry occupations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Com- munication Specialist 2nd Class Kevin S. O'Brien (Released) more students accu- tant and transformative in The Net Price Calcu- rately compare college their lives. We must en- lator Improvement Act of cost estimates.” sure greater cost transpar- 2016 would improve exist- “The financial pres- ency and affordability to ing law by requiring higher sure of enrolling in and at- create a more inviting ex- education institutions to tending colleges and uni- perience in the pursuit of display prominently on versities in our country can higher education.” their websites the costs of be highly stressful and bur- Congress first re- tuition, room and board, densome,” said Hinojosa. quired Net Price Calcula- and other expenses. The “In response, the Net Price tor tools in 2008 when it bill also would protect stu- Calculator Improvement reauthorized the Higher dents using the tools from Act will provide aspiring Education Act, but imple- personal data collection, students and their families mentation has been incon- and it would authorize the with current and accurate sistent and has led to con- Secretary of Education to data to consider their op- fusion among students create a universal calculator tions and arrive at a more and institutions over the to enable students to easily informed decision that will specific data provided by and quickly compare col- be among the most impor- the calculator. lege cost estimates.