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Vol. 47 No.33 Phone: 512-476-0082 Email: [email protected] March 19, 2021 Beyoncé Makes Grammy Award History INSIDE - Winning her 28th Grammy Award

Texas expands group 1C eligibility pool. RAPPIN’ See VACCINE Thomas Wyatt Page 3 It Ain’t About “Complying” Today, I’m putting so- cial justice trolls on Blast. By Naomi Richard I’m calling out all the VILLAGER “Compliers”, here and Entertainment Reporter COA prioritizes now. The ‘Red Herring’ vulnerable that Compliers have used populations. over the past decade to (VILLAGER) - See RENT mask their prejudice has Beyoncé and husband Page 5 just been caught, gutted, Jay-Z were in attendance fried, and devoured. at the outdoor and so- But first, let’s get on cially distanced 63rd the same page. Compliers: Grammy Awards where those individuals who ar- she won her 28th gue unarmed black men Grammy, making her the and women killed by police most decorated female are attributed to not com- plying with officer com- singer in all of Grammy Delta Beta Chapter mands. history! First the Hous- earns Academic Basically, Compliers ton Music Legend tied Excellence honor. attest Eric Garner died be- Alison Kraus for most See MISSION

cause he “didn’t” comply. Grammys won by a fe- Page 6 |

I say, go watch the tape. male performer (after http://austintexas.gov/ GET FACTS THE Compliers say she and Megan Thee George Floyd died because Stallion won Best Rap he “didn’t” comply. I say, Song for the “Savage” go watch the tape. remix). That tie didn’t

And Compliers say, | last the night though, as SELF-ASSESSMENT Philando Castile died be- cause he “didn’t” comply. Beyonce went on to I say, go watch the tape. break the tie-winning In every instance, the Record of the Year for core theme to blue lives “Black Parade!” Now

over black lives has been bona fide as the biggest | to distract observers from female music performer COVID-19 PUBLIC FREE TESTING the actual issue being scru- in Grammy history, tinized. Queen B shed tears, be- Enter Johnny ing overwhelmed with Damon; The “grenade” - emotions. lobbed into the Compliers’ Not to be outdone, entire argument and BLEW

Beyoncé’s daughter, |

IT UP! Mr. Damon and his STAY ORDERS HOME wife were arrested last nine-year old Blue Ivy week for DUI, among other Carter, won her first things that we’ll get to Grammy Award for the later. Now is the time “Brown Skinned Girl” where I say; Go Watch The Music Video. “As an art- Beyoncé during the 50th NAACP Awards. Photo by Earl Gibson. Tape! ist, I believe it’s my job I studied the one and all of our jobs to re- II, H.E.R. & Tiara Tho- March 14. There were hour and thirty-five- flect the times. And it’s mas, songwriters), and 84 categories ranging minute video of Damon’s been such a difficult “Better Than I Imagined” from outstanding arrest ad nauseam the day time. And so, I want to won Best R&B Song achievements in genres it was released. Not only did Damon not comply uplift, encourage, and (Robert Glasper featur- including pop, rock, rap, with officer commands, celebrate all the beauti- ing H.E.R. & Meshell Latin, classical, comedy

but he assaulted the of- ful Black queens and Ndegeocello). and more. Most awards |

ficer as well. At one-point, kings that continue to Best Gospel Perfor- were presented during HEALTH PROVIDERS

Ol’ Johnny boy knocked inspire me and inspire mance/Song went to the earlier Premiere Cer- | TRACKING DIGITAL DASHBOARD the officer’s body camera the whole world. I know “Movin’ On” by emony hosted by Jhene to the ground where it my daughter is watch- Jonathan McReynolds Aiko, a three-time nomi- stayed for three minutes ing. …Blue, congratula- & Mali Music (Darryl L. H.E.R. on Red Carpet Arrivals nee this year. for the 51st NAACP Awards. and eighteen seconds. All tions, she won a Howell, Jonathan Caleb Trevor Noah was Photo by Earl Gibson. the while, Ol’ Johnny Boy Grammy tonight. I’m so McReynolds, Kortney this year’s host for the is claiming he’s blue lives proud of you. And I’m so Jamaal Pollard & Terrell Love. An emotional televised portion of the matter and a Trump sup- honored to be your Demetrius Wilson, Ledisi won her first famous awards cer-

porter. covid19 But the amazing Mommy,” said Beyoncé. songwriters). The Best Grammy Award as Best emony and performers thing? Damon’s behind Other big wins Gospel Album went to R&B Performance for included to name a few never touched the ground. were Taylor Swift’s the incredibly talented “Black Parade.” And in a Billie Elish, Roddy Ricch, EVER! He, nor his wife – quarantine-produced PJ Morton, son of re- surprise twist, Best Con- Doja Cat, Jimmy “Duck”

whom was less compliant “Folklore” for Album of cording artist Bishop temporary Christian Holmes, DaBaby, Burna |

than him and charged with the Year. Billie Eilish’s Paul S. Morton, for his Music Album went to Boy and Cardi B per- CARE battery of a police officer “Everything I Wanted” first Gospel project titled Kanye West, for “Jesus Is forming WAP Live for the – didn’t receive a scratch. won Record of the Year “Gospel According to PJ.” King.” first time with Megan Oh, by the way, Damon’s but the 19-year-old re- John Legend, the The 63rd Annual Thee Stallion on a giant “resisting arrest” charge? peatedly said, “Megan appropriately named Grammy Award winners bed! That was dropped! So, what was that Thee Stallion deserved erudite judge on NBC’s were announced live at For a complete list about if (you name’em) it.” H.E.R. won Song of hit music competition The Staples Center in Los of 2021 Grammy Award would’ve complied, (s)he’d the Year for “I Can’t The Voice, also won Best Angeles to a small out- Winners, please visit still be alive? Shiiiiiiii.....! Breathe” (Dernst Emile R&B Album for Bigger door gathering on www.grammy.com. Page 2 ~ THE VILLAGER/March 19, 2021 THE COMMUNIQUÉ www.theaustinvillager.com Dawn Staley is a Legend in the Making coach and player is Staley? Let us count the ways. DAWN During her four seasons in college, she led Virginia to four NCAA Tournament, three Final Fours and one national By John Harris Jr. championship game. VILLAGER Sports She was named national Columnist player of the year in She is... 1991 and 1992. the DREAM. (VILLAGER) - South The national high Carolina women’s bas- school player of the year, ketball coach Dawn Staley is a three-time Staley, one of the great Olympic gold medalist. Black college coaches of She was voted by fans as all-time, male or female, one of the top 15 play- is a rare treasure to be ers in WNBA history and appreciated, admired was elected to the and honored. Naismith Memorial Bas- Staley leads the ketball Hall of Fame in Gamecocks into the 2013. NCAA Tournament as While still a WNBA the No. 1 overall seed. player, Staley, a Philadel- South Carolina faces phia native, also Mercer in the first round coached hometown Sunday at the Temple University Alamodome in San An- women’s program and tonio. Due to the threat guided the Owls to six of COVID-19, every tour- NCAA Tournament ap- nament game will be pearances. played in San Antonio, Now at South Caro- Austin or San Marcos, lina, Staley produced the with the championship program’s first No 1 Dawn Michelle Staley is an American basketball Hall of Fame game scheduled for April overall ranking in 2014, player, current University of South Carolina Gamecocks women’s 4 at the Alamodome. making her only the sec- basketball coach, and three-time U.S. Olympic gold medalist. If you can make it ond individual to both to San Antonio in per- play and coach a No. 1 male or female, to win able five times. The to COVID-19. She also more than the price of son, Staley is definitely ranked team. the Naismith Award Gamecocks have ad- won the other three admission to determine worth the effort and sac- In 2017, Staley honoring the nation’s vanced to the Elite Eight major national coach of if she can lead South rifice to observe up close guided South Carolina to top basketball coach, as three times in the last the year awards, after Carolina on another title and personal. Check her the program’s first both a player and coach. five NCAA Tournaments. she led her team to a 32- run. Her considerable out because the sister is women’s basketball na- Let that sink in for South Carolina would win season and a final input not only puts her bad - in a good way. If tional championship. a minute. have been the No. 1 No. 1 ranking before the on the map, it also high- Staley were a man, she Later that year, she was Entering this year’s overall seed last year tournament was can- lights the contributions would have a candy bar named head coach of NCAA Tournament, until the NCAA Tourna- celed. of female basketball named after her. She is the USA national team. Staley’s South Carolina ment was canceled due Staley is worth far players everywhere. legendary. In 2020, Staley be- teams have been the No. Just how great of a came the first coach, 1 overall seed a remark- Cynthia Erivo Plays Aretha Franklin in the Upcoming Third Season of National Geographic’s “Genius”

National Geographic Television.

(VILLAGER) - Na- the Queen of Soul. “Ge- prodigy, an outspoken tional Geographic has nius: Aretha” will pre- civil rights champion, unveiled the trailer and miere March 21 on Na- and widely considered long-awaited release tional Geographic, and the greatest singer of date for “Genius: two new episodes will the past 50 years, receiv- Aretha Chain of Fools,” air on the following ing countless honors the third entry in its three days. throughout her career. anthology franchise. Season 3 will ex- Without knowing how The trailer can be plore Aretha Franklin’s to read music, Franklin viewed on YouTube at musical genius and in- taught herself to play https://youtu.be/ comparable career, as the piano and is re- ryGpdVuuq_Y. well as the immeasur- garded as one of the The eight-part sea- able impact and lasting world’s bestselling mu- son will center on the life influence she has had sical artists of all time, of musician and civil on music and culture with more than 75 mil- rights leader Aretha around the world. lion records sold during Franklin, also known as Franklin was a gospel her career. www.theaustinvillager.com THE BULLETIN THE VILLAGER/March 19, 2021 ~ Page 3 Barbara’s We Want YOU! Four Hundred Souls Advertise With Book Bag (A Community History of African America. 1619-2019) Edited by Ibram X. Kendrick and Keisha N. Blain The VILLAGER Country Boyz Fixin’s 4140 E. 12th Street, Austin, TX 78721 Featuring Fish, Poboys, Hot Wings, Pork Chops, Homemade Gumbo, Shrimp and Alligator DINE IN OR ORDER TO GO Mon - Fri: 11 am - 8 p.m. Saturday: 12 noon - 5 p.m. Book Review By Closed Sunday Barbara Williams Call (512) 928-5555 (VILLAGER) - This is a one volume book that tells the story of the DOUBLE four-hundred-year jour- ney of African Ameri- cans in the United States. The editors se- “R” lected a community of throughout the past four The essays are mentations of history, eighty black writers and hundred years different and informa- especially during the ten black poets to The chapters tive. They shine early years written chronicle this history of are short and easy to brightly on things that about. Essays are writ- GROCERY Black Americans from read. The first writer is have not been written ten about courageous 1619-2019. Nicole Hannah Jones. or talked about. They women and men as well *We cash ALL Tax Refund*Checks *Check Out Each writer cov- She tells why it is impor- show the strength and as the prominent leader- ers a period of five years tant for African Ameri- the resilience of African ship they provided for 450l East Martin Luther King Blvd. in an essay. The book is cans to tell their own his- Americans to overcome the race. WE INVITE EVERYONE! divided into ten parts. tory, most of which has and move things for- The is an excel- Sunday Each part ends with a been left out of Ameri- ward. Writers show lent book. Everyone can 10:00 a.m. Virtual Worship Service on YouTube Live. Click the poem. Each writer’s can history books. She that there are many to learn about the nation in QR code for Worship Services. piece revolves around a challenges students to admire and revere, but which they live and the 8:45 a.m. Christian Education Ministry person, place, thing, learn the African Ameri- there are many, many challenges and com- Experience via Zoom*. idea or event. can History is much more ordinary people plexities faced and Wednesday 7:00 p.m. - Midweek Prayer Service via Zoom* Having 80 differ- more diverse and com- who continue to press continue to be &RQWDFWWKHFKXUFKRI¿FHDWHEFRI¿FH#VEFJOREDOQHWIRUOLQN ent writer perspectives, plex than has been told forward. faced by African Ameri- Dr. Ricky Freeman, Senior Pastor 1010 E 10th St, Austin, TX 78702 Child Development Center (Ages 0-5) allows the reader a vari- in books. She says “we Black newspa- cans in this nation. Phone (512) 478-175 Fax (512) 478-1892 (512) 478-6709 ety of insights about wish to plead our own pers are cited as the *****5 out of 5 what has transpired cause.” main sources of docu- Rating. Agape Baptist Church In “THE CENTRE” Bldg. F-15 7801 North Lamar Blvd. (S.E. Corner of North Lamar and 183) Austin, Texas 78752 Vaccination events increase as AGAPE: A church for all people. “Where Jesus Christ is Magnified and the Love He exhibited is Exemplified.” Come, received God’s Unconditional Love for you. For there is No Greater Love! Texas opens vaccines to group 1C Church Services Sun. School – 9:30a Sun. Worship – 11:00a Mid-Week (TEXAS) - According to the Texas Department Thurs.: Praise, Prayer and Bible Study – 7:00PM of State Health Services, anyone 50 years old or Call: 454-1547 for transportation H. Ed Calahan, Pastor older will be eligible to get a Covid-19 vaccination Web: www.agapebcaustintx.com shot. They will join the eligibility pool alongside WEBBERVILLE those 65 and older and anyone 16 and up with an EBENEZER MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH underlying health issue. 1314 Weber St, There are now hundreds of providers admin- Webberville, Tx 78653 istering vaccines in the Austin area. (512) 276-7917 Texas health officials have also designated sev- Give thanks to the Lord for he eral local hospitals and health departments as vac- is good. -Psalms 136:1 Sunday Morning Worship cination hubs, which get the biggest allocations ev- had received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vac- Pastor W. B. Routt, Jr. 11 AM Cell # (512) 694-1877 ery week. cine. 2.8 million Texans are fully vaccinated, which Sunday School 10 AM As of Sunday, more than eight million Texans is approximately 9.7% of the population. Yaphet Kotto of ‘Live and Let Die,’ ‘Alien,’ dies at 81 By JAKE COYLE | AP NEWS NEW YORK (AP) — “Othello.” In 1969, he came to Baltimore to Yaphet Kotto, the com- replaced James Earl grace our television manding actor who Jones in the Pulitzer- drama,” said David brought tough magne- winning “The Great Simon, author of the tism and stately gravitas White Hope” on Broad- book that launched the to films including the way. His big-screen “Homicide” show. “But James Bond movie “Live breakthrough came as for me, he’ll always be Al DAVID CHAPEL Missionary Baptist Church and Let Die” and “Alien,” Lieutenant Pope in Giardello, the unlikeliest SUNDAY Christian Education 9:15a.m. | Worship 10:30 a.m. has died. He was 81. 1972's “Across 110th Sicilian, gently pulling Nursery Available Kotto’s wife, Tessie Street.” down the office blinds WEDNESDAY | Worship 1st Wed. monthly 7:00p.m. | Bible Study 7:30p.m. Sinahon, announced his Raised in the Bronx to glower at detectives death Monday in a and a descendent of in his squadroom.” Yaphet Kotto 2211 East Martin Luther King Jr., Blvd. Facebook post. She said Cameroonian royalty on Kotto sometimes Austin, TX 78702 (1939-2021) Office: 512-472-9748 Fax: 512-472-5399 he died Monday in the his father’s side, Kotto struggled with being Website: www.davidchapel.org Email: [email protected] Philippines. Kotto’s was best known for his Photo property of MGM typecast as a detective, Dr. Joseph C. Parker, Jr. “A Church with a Heart agent, Ryan Goldhar, infuriated FBI agent in and he lamented how Senior Pastor for The Community” confirmed Kotto’s “Midnight Run” who has Entebbe.” In Paul many of his characters Olive Branch Fellowship of Austin / All Faith Chapel death. his badge stolen by Rob- Schrader’s 1978 “Blue died in the end. 4110 Guadalupe St. Bldg #639 Austin, TX 78751 “You played a vil- ert De Niro, the James Collar,” about Detroit “I’m always called Sunday Morning “This life, therefore, is not lain on some of your Bond villain Mr. Big in auto workers, he starred powerful, bulky or im- Worship @ 11: am righteousness, but growth in righteousness; not health, but healing; not being, but movies but for me “Live and Let Die” and alongside Richard Pryor posing,” Kotto told the becoming; not rest, but exercise. We are not you’re a real hero and to the technician Dennis and Harvey Keitel as the Baltimore Sun in 1993. yet what we shall be, but we are growing toward it. The process is not yet finished, a lot of people,” wrote Parker in 1979’s “Alien.” ex-convict Smokey “Or they say I fill up a but it is going on. This is not the end, but it Sinahon. “He’s one of those James. room. I’m a 200-pound, is the road. All does not yet gleam in glory, Standing 6-foot-3- actors who deserved Kotto also co- 6-foot-3-inch Black guy. but all is being purified.” --- Martin Luther Romans 5:1 Therefore, having been inches, Yaphet more than the parts he starred in the 1987 And I think I have this Kenneth Hill, justified by faith, we have peace Frederick Kotto was a got,” wrote director Ava Arnold Schwarzenegger image of a monster. It’s Pastor with God through our Lord Jesus Christ regular and compelling Duvernay on Twitter. action film “The Run- very difficult.” BETHEL-ST. PAUL UNITED BAPTIST CHURCH presence across films, “But he took those parts ning Man” and played Al “I want to try to 877 W. Hempstead, Giddings, Texas 78942 television and Broad- and made them won- Giardello from 1993 to play a much more sen- way beginning with the derful all the same.” 1999 on the NBC series sitive man. A family Weekly Schedule films “Nothing But a Kotto was nomi- “Homicide: Life on the man,” he added. “There Sunday School 9:00 a.m. Man” (1964) and “The nated for an Emmy for Street.” is an aspect of Black Sunday Worship 10:45 a.m. Thomas Crown Affair” his performance as “Memories and re- people’s lives that is not Wednesday Night Bible (1968). He made his Ugandan dictator Idi spect for Yaphet Kotto, running or jumping.” Study 6:00p.m. Pastor J. R. Roberson stage debut in a Boston Amin in the 1977 televi- whose film career was Kotto is survived by & First lady (979) 542-2784 Church production of sion movie “Raid on legend even before he his wife and six children. Lillian Robertson (979) 540-6352 Home Page 4 ~ THE VILLAGER/March 19, 2021 YOUTH BRIGADE www.theaustinvillager.com

Youth of Today Hope of Tomorrow Mask Off Texas Snowstorm of 2021 The African American Flag rested normally churches, businesses, when Governor Abbott throughout the night. and homes throughout lifted the mask mandate The next morning, I this country. They be- and increased the capac- woke up with the pecu- lieved the flag would ity to 100% for all busi- liar thought that it was promote and represent nesses. With people ex- earlier than usual. I fig- positive and non-politi- periencing Covid fatigue, ured with the excessive cal principles that would some may be confused snow school was des- assist African-Ameri- by the governor’s an- tined to be cancelled cans, and all Americans, nouncement. So many which was tremendous to change their mindsets Ava Roberts are ready to go back to news to hear on a Mon- from the negative im- Pflugerville H. S. not wearing masks and day morning. I used my ages that permeate the not social distancing. phone to play some re- African-American com- This week of March But unmistakably the laxing sounds to help me munities, to those posi- 15 is spring break for COVID-19 pandemic has get back to sleep. Before tive images that would many schools in the Aus- not ended. Lacee Johnson I knew it, I drifted back Kaitlyn Cannon activate a renewed tin area. Also, it’s the I will encourage Connally High School to sleep. When I woke Bluebonnet Trail Elem. sense of purpose. That time when many are you to keep practicing up, I could not believe purpose would be real- traveling to Texas Covid safety measures. The snowstorm we that the power was still The history of the ized in flying the flag beaches for vacation and What we have done all endured during the out, and it was very cold African American Flag throughout the country. relaxation. And this over the last year should month of February was in the house. There was first appeared during the Flag colors with its year, it is also the time continue. Stay safe! one example of the no heater providing hot American Civil War of own meanings are: many crises Texas has air throughout the 1861 to 1865. The Con- Purple—the regal his- Middle School Goals faced during the year of house. I ended up sitting federate Army soldiers tory of African Ameri- 2021. For many of us our in my chair piled on blan- flew their black flag to cans; Gold flashes or criticism, prioritize tasks faith, health, and kets all the way until symbolize the opposite light around the star— and become more orga- wellbeing were all put to 2:40 pm. Eventually, I fig- of the white flag of sur- Perseverance, Love, nized. I understand why the test as we battled ured my frantic waiting render. The black flag knowledge and spiritual- people give constructive the loss of power, was not going to bring meant that the union ity; Black strip near criticism. Constructive internet, and warmth. the power back on any- would not give in nor purple field—African criticism is given to allow My story and overall ex- time soon, so with this surrender, and that en- American are close to people to develop and perience during these news I got inside of my emy combatants would regality; Green strip— grow. Today, I struggle times were surely a dif- bed and napped on and be killed. Abundant life in Africa, with receiving construc- ficult, starting from the off for the rest of that In the year 1991 at Gold strip—The riches of tive criticism. I struggle exact beginning of the entire day. I kept waking the African-American Africa; Red, white & with prioritizing tasks. outage. up just on that slight Banquet, Tonya and blue—The integral part The things that are most That night it was piece of hope the power David Harvey of Balti- African Americans play, important are the things calmer than ever before. would be back on, but more, Maryland were have played, and will I do last and rush I opened my window frankly, that hope singing the Black Na- play in America’s great- through. slightly to get some fresh brought me nothing. My tional Anthem, when ness; and Eight-pointed Aiden Loyden Moving forward, I air while I continued to mother and I only had they decided a flag black star—Each indi- Teravista Elementary would like to do the watch my show. Unex- one meal that day as she would was needed to vidual African American tasks that are most im- pectedly, the typical irri- warmed up leftover symbolize the meaning Theme of the central th My 5 grade year is portant to least impor- tating buffering circle meat by filling the sink of the past, present, and black star is ‘Black Stars coming to an end. That tant. I’ve also realized gazed back at me, inter- with hot water then future of the African- Can Shine Too”. Eight means middle school is I’m not a very organized rupting my show with its placing the meat in a bag American life in the points of the star reflect. right around the corner. person. To be successful constant movements and letting it sit in the United States of African Americans’: As- To be successful in and to prioritize tasks around and around the hot water. Although this America, the purpose of pirations, Family, Righ- middle school, I need to you must first be orga- screen. I got up and deli- was a lengthy process, the African-American teousness, Individuality, set goals. Some of my nized. Middle school will cately walked across the but it brought us well flag. The Harveys envi- Community, Ability, No- goals are to focus on start calculating my GPA house trying not to needed nutrients. After sioned the flag flowing bility, Scholarship. things that are impor- and I don’t want to slack. awaken my mother. I finished eating, I stayed on the campuses of His- ARTICLE REFER- tant to my success such This is why I’ve decided When I went into the liv- in bed for the rest of the torical Black Colleges ENCE: The Google as handle constructive to set goals. ing room, I did not night. and Universities (HBCU), Internet, Date: February bother trying to flick on The next day was a African American 10,2009 The Bluest Eye Book Review the lights as I knew the simple cycle of the pre- house well and did not vious day. This time a wall. were starting to fade incidentally, my mother have a desire to allow around I never left the The day after was and walking with our happened to purchase any unnecessary light to bed except for the short thankfully the last day of legs was almost like the book, The Bluest Eye, follow my path back up- time I took to eat with our despair. The tem- walking with pencil for me as a gift, before stairs. When I got a few my mother. She used the peratures were signifi- sticks. We waited about our Toni Morrison course feet away from the same hot water tech- cantly lower than be- 30 minutes and we was presented to my internet router, I saw nique she used last time fore, and I was able to packed up some basic class. I was able to start there was no blue light to heat up the food we see my own breath supplies and headed to- reading the book with a beaming from it as it had. I slept throughout while inside the house. wards my grandparents’ book group that I was generally does. This is that day, each time wak- My mom used the bits of house. Being inside the placed into. Together we the point at which I un- ing up to no power and battery she had left to car was the first time I created a schedule for derstood the power was heat. I lost more hope in desperately call her boss felt heat in almost 3 days the number of pages we out, but it was not ex- it ever coming back. The to see if he would come now. I was still shaken up should be on when we actly a crazed thought cold temperatures out to get us. Thankfully, by the experience we met, discussed the book, since it had been snow- seemed to continue to he was more than will- underwent but none- and asked each other ing continually for the take over the house. At ing to come pick us up. theless, but I told my SaNaya White questions to better our duration of the night. I this point, I was unable While we waited, I was mother’s boss how much Ann Richards understanding and re- made my way back up to to feel my feet, and walk- genuinely starting to be- I appreciated him and his ceive different perspec- my room and laid still in ing or getting up became come worried for my me son for their sacrifice and In my English class, tives. bed. I closed the gap be- a task that required me and my mother’s safety, safety to come and pick my classmates and I The Bluest Eye, is a tween my window and leaning against a rail or the feeling in our fingers up my mother and me. were asked to select a novel that takes place in book by the author Toni Ohio, and describes the trayed. Pecola’s life ness. Toni Morrison uses interesting, unique, and beauty and ugliness Morrison. For those that story of a young African drastically changes as her novel to portray the well written, focusing on varying among individual are not familiar with Toni American girl named she goes through a dif- demonization of African the beauty and indiffer- perspectives. Personally, Morrison, she is an Afri- Pecola who lived during ficult and devastating American culture and ence of individuals. It ac- I loved this book, and I can American, poet, nov- the times following the situation. This causes identity, focusing and knowledged how spe- recommend it to others elist, essayist, and book Great Depression. her to neglect the truth, acknowledging the ef- cific situations and the who are in search of editor. Some of the Pecola prayed for blues and turn to focusing on fects of internalized rac- continuation of actions something that will books presented to us to eyes so that she would the identity of having ism. The Bluest Eye was over the course of a life- cause them to read, choose from include, be loved and seen as blue eyes. On a more de- not what I expected at time can lead to a nega- question the story, ac- Beloved, The Bluest Eye, beautiful, just as the tailed note, the novel fo- all. tive impact on individu- cept the knowledge, and Song of Solomon, and blond blue-eyed Ameri- cuses on the social ide- I truly enjoyed it als and others that they look at life through a dif- many other options. Co- can kids were por- als of beauty and ugli- and believe that it was interact with. The idea of ferent lens. www.theaustinvillager.com HEADLINES Page 5 ~ THE VILLAGER/March 19, 2021 Tying up loose Strings “rollover” assignments instead. Yes, I do have over a week to complete them, but I don’t want to do work over my break at all. Those assignments are the kinds that I ei- ther have to get done on the same day or scramble to finish days before they’re due. I’m all settled in Austin, TX – The Relief of Emergency Needs Significant policy changes in the City of Austin’s Florida. I pretty much for Tenants (RENT) Assistance Program Application RENT program beginning in March 2021: know my way around Portal opens on Monday, March 15, 2021. The City Tenants and landlords can apply; Households town. It was nice how I of Austin received funding from the U.S. Depart- may be eligible to receive up to 15 months of rent Rebekah McNeal quickly found good local ment of the Treasury through the Emergency Rental assistance; RENT funds can cover fees on the lease Round Rock H. S. shopping centers and Assistance Program in early 2021. The RENT Assis- agreement, including internet services, utilities in- I’ve pretty much grocery stores. I’ve had tance Program provides $25 million of direct rent cluded with the rent, and fees for garage use, stor- wrapped up school be- some pretty great res- support for income-eligible Austin renters who are age, service animals, and pets; and Through collabo- fore spring break. I have taurant food and some financially impacted by COVID-19. ration with Austin Energy, the RENT program will a few assignments left not-so-great food too. The updated program guidelines have been provide approved application information to Aus- before I’m free, then I Swimming and playing enhanced to address equity, prioritize vulnerable tin Energy for Austin Energy customers in need of got many annoying last- around in the pool has and low-income populations, and create stronger utility assistance. This will eliminate having to sepa- minute assignments. been relaxing and coordination of tenant stabilization services includ- rately apply for utility assistance if the RENT pro- They weren’t technically fun.This break came up ing connecting approved applicants to Austin En- gram determines the applicant is eligible. last minute. The grading at a perfect time be- ergy for utility assistance. Further, renters are not Eligibility Requirements: period ended on Friday, cause I am spent. I’m required to be U.S. citizens or legal residents to ap- To apply, applicants must meet the eligibility and these are due the done with school things ply. Renters who received rent support from the requirements below: Have an income of no more week after spring break. and I’m ready to relax 2020 RENT program can apply using the same ac- than 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI); One I guess I should call them and enjoy my vacation. count; this program can provide funding for the or more members of your household must have ei- months that have unpaid rent. ther: qualified for unemployment benefits OR pro- The RENT program will randomly select appli- vide proof that due to COVID-19 you: have less in- Michael Buro cations weekly on Fridays for processing. If selected come, have more costs or bills, or experienced other and the application qualifies, payment will be is- financial hardship; One or more members of your Vandegrift high school. sued directly to the landlord who is owed rent pay- household must demonstrate they: are at risk of ex- He has been teach- ments. periencing homelessness or their housing situation ing for 5 years and wants RENT Program Enhancements & Benefits: is uncertain, which may include a past due utility/ to retire around his 10th The RENT Assistance Program can help rent- rent notice or eviction notice OR live in unsafe or year of teaching. He is ers financially impacted by the pandemic pay rent unhealthy housing conditions; and Live within the outstanding at what he as far back as April 2020 until December 2021. City of Austin Full Purpose Jurisdiction boundaries. does and works to the Significant policy changes from the federal Applicants can verify using the City of Austin Juris- best of his abilities. This government include the following: Timing for land- dictional Boundaries map. The address on the ap- is what makes him so lord response has been reduced (which allows pay- plication must be the applicant’s primary residence. hard working and deter- ments to be made directly to the renter when land- Application Help: mined. He has gone to lords are unresponsive); More flexibility in allow- For additional information, including instruc- UT and graduated there able forms of documentation; Allowing for self-cer- tions, a how-to video, frequently asked questions, and loves working with tification; Categorical eligibility for households ap- and application assistance, visit kids. Montrae Nelson proved to receive benefits from other government www.AustinTexas.gov/RENT, email He wants to find Four Points M. S. assistance programs with the same or lower-income [email protected] or call the RENT more jobs related to so- limitations; and Eligibility for households receiving Call Center at 512-488-1397 between 8 a.m. and 6 Hello everyone, cial working. He wants to federal subsidies. p.m. CST, Monday through Friday. christmas break is over help people in need and and school is starting is willing to put as much back up again. While all time as he can into it. Operation Reconnect - AISD Action Day Volunteer Form the teachers are getting Mr.Buro is also a football things together for their coach and coach the QB students there is one position and loves what teacher that stands out he does. Thank you above the rest. His name Mr.Buro for letting me is Michael Buro. Mr.Buro interview you and hav- teaches World History ing such a great story to and Geography at tell. Thanks for reading!! Calling all volunteers! Help us block walk and reconnect with our AISD families! Operation Recon- Austin Continues nect is a door-to-door neighborhood walk to engage and recruit families back to Austin ISD schools, Saturday, April 10, 2021 – 8:00 am to 1:00 pm. The focus of the event is schools in the northeast Vaccine Distribution for corridor of the district. Register to volunteer via our online form, https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/ Phase 1B Individuals 1FAIpQLSdguB4nfbbCNpY634rvCx4vDqQWTPqp5b5bG_ksPqO4jjQ0-A/viewform April 9th standard face-to-face in- the Centers for Disease struction and an optional Control and Prevention Instructional virtual hybrid model for and the American Acad- the 2021-22 school year. emy of Pediatrics. Day The commitment from Finally, as you may 2021-2022 our district will include have heard, cases and Vaccine Approval that with these options, hospitalization across The Moderna, Pfizer, and Johnson & Johnson vac- teachers will be selected the state and nation cines have received an Emergency Use Authorization School Year for one model to elimi- have gone down in re- from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Return to nate the concurrent cent weeks. While this Vaccine Eligibility Stephanie S. Elizalde news indicates our People currently eligible to receive the COVID-19 Standard AISD Superintendent (teaching via Zoom and in vaccine in Texas include: person at the same time) united efforts are paying Phase 1A: Frontline healthcare workers and resi- Instruction day on Friday, April 9 — instructional design. off, we will only end this dents of long-term care facilities on-campus and remotely. There are many more de- pandemic if we continue Phase 1B: People 65+ or 16+ with a medical con- Dear Austin ISD This day was previously tails to come, but we to practice health and dition that puts them at increased risk for severe dis- families, announced as an asyn- wanted to share as much safety measures. ease I appreciate your chronous day. On April 9, as we can as we move Whether you are on cam- Phase 1C: People 50 to 64, regardless of medical continued flexibility transportation will be through this very fluid pus or in public, I encour- conditions. throughout this school provided for students process. As we continue age you to keep wearing School and licensed childcare personnel year as it has allowed us who attend on campus. to work with our internal your face mask, social dis- Phase 1C and school and licensed childcare per- to adjust as needed in the Students learning re- team members and re- tancing where needed, sonnel were recently added to the eligibility list by the interest of our students, motely will be engaged ceive additional guid- and to take advantage of Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). families, and staff. with their teachers. ance from the Texas Edu- any opportunity to obtain The demand for vaccine in these eligible groups We recognize that In addition, we rec- a vaccine. is exceeding the supply of many providers across the cation Agency, we will Austin area. students have lost a lot of ognize that spring is when share updated plans for Thank you for being APH is working to prioritize the vaccine for more time this year in days of families are planning for the fall. AISD will con- a part of Austin ISD. than 200,000 1A and 1B individuals in our system who instruction. In an effort to fall. We anticipate wel- tinue to follow safety Sincerely, have not yet received the vaccine, along with newly recover some time, we coming students back to protocols as recom- Stephanie S. Elizalde eligible education professionals, early childhood staff, will offer a regular school campuses and providing mended, at that time, by Superintendent and 1C individuals. In the coming days, APH will make modifications to our registration platform to include AISD Community Retreat Part 3: Eliminating Disparities in Discipline and the 1C population. Punishment - Workgroup Updates & Action Steps A handful of other local providers receive smaller Wednesday, April 14 | 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. allocations each week. A list of local providers can be https://zoom.us/j/96134361744?pwd=VVBsei9tM0FwR0dlWGF1SGpMN1gzZz09 found at centraltxvaccs.org. Meeting ID: 961 3436 1744 and Passcode: 147980 Page 6 ~ THE VILLAGER/March 19, 2021 DIASPORA www.theaustinvillager.com seeks to highlight the Af- tween the US and the Texas rican Diaspora in Central African continent. DELTA BETA CHAPTER Texas and create a Jackson's nonprofit bridge with the African sought to establish a Africa American community. STEAM program in Cen- XINOS AND KUDOS During this event, there tral Texas and Ghana. “Mission Possible: Building A Future of Opportunities” Fest will be numerous con- Finally, the Texas versation panel ses- Africa Fest strongly be- by Tsoke (Chuch) sions. lieves that a Adjavon Furthermore, one raprochement between VILLAGER of the speakers for the African Americans and Columnist African American cul- Africans can open up ture will be Draeka Jack- numerous opportunities (VILLAGER) - Texas son. Jackson founded ranging from culture, Africa Fest will occur Oc- Dignified Virtue and has education, and business. tober 25-27, 2021, in traveled numerous For instance, it is a plat- Pflugerville, Texas. The times to West Africa, in form that connects event will be the 6th edi- which she has sought to Americans and African tion of this festival and establish a bridge be- entrepreneurs.

(VILLAGER) - Last Black Americans. How- Item 67 week the Austin City ever, the best way to im- Council passed item 67 on proving the lives of Black its agenda. Moreover, Americans in the Austin Passes item 67 recognizes and area is to make housing acknowledges the city's more affordable." the role of disenfranchising Austin is the only big Black Austinites through city where its black popu- The Xinos and Kudos of the Delta Beta Chapter (Austin, Texas) of the Na- past discrimination lation has seen stagnant tional Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc. (NSPDK, Inc.) demonstrated determina- Austin caused by the urban re- growth, produced by rac- tion to finish the mission of completing their first virtual regional youth confer- ence. The Xinos (girls) and Kudos (boys) are in grades 9th thru 12th. NSPDK, Inc. newal policies and the ist policies coming from is a professional nonprofit organization of active and retired female educators 1928 master plan. Fur- Downtown. For a long City committed to the pursuit of excellence in education as they mentor, tutor and thermore, it calls for the time, the Austin Police support the youth of the United States of America. creation of black re- Department was notori- The NSPDK, Inc. first virtual and the 48th Xinos and 38th Kudos first virtual Council sources and cultural cen- ous for its aggressive Southwest Regional Conference was held February 26–27, 2021 via Zoom. Ap- manner of dealing with ters. proximately 275 students from four states, under the guidance and online moni- According to black motorists. Hope- toring of member sponsors and HUB parent chaperones, participated in general by Tsoke (Chuch) Diaspora Vote, "item 67 is fully, item 67 will be a key sessions, development workshops, and competitions in academic excellence, Adjavon a good measure at mak- in creating a positive qual- informative speaking, singing, instrumental music, poetry, art, and presentation VILLAGER ing a positive step toward ity of life for Black resi- of chapter activity books. Columnist improving the lives of dents. National President Dr. Etta Carter (Gamma Nu Chapter, Little Rock, Arkan- sas) states,”The theme, “Mission Possible” is needed more in these times than ever before. You have proven that with resiliency, creativity, leadership, sister- Spring hood, and never giving up, that the Mission is Possible. The attending youth will Fling learn that this is a life lesson that will be much needed in adulthood.” (Austin, TX) - Satur- day, March 27, 2021 - 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM No contact, drive thru event to pick up eggs and prizes for home hunt. Be sure to waive at the Bunny! Givens Recreation Center | 3811 E. 12th ST | 512-974-2430 Dittmar Recreation Center | 1009 W Dittmar Rd | 512-974-6090 Gus Garcia Recre- Montopolis Recre- Turner-Roberts ation Center | 1201 E. ation Center | 1200 Recreation Center | Rundberg Ln. | 5122- Montopolis Dr. | 512- 7210 Colony Loop Dr. | 978-2525 974-2300 512-978-2690 Watermark Scholars Southwest Regional Director Anita O’Neal (Gamma Tau Chapter, San Anto- Program Awards Women nio, Texas) states, “Again, this year we are committed to trying to instill in the mindset of all our youth leadership skills as they develop through life. One of the major components of the National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa is to enhance Studying STEM and develop YOUTH in your local community throughout the sororal year. So, our conference is when we gather together to showcase the outstanding youth from Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas. We will ‘Build a Future of Op- portunities’ in the Southwest Region. We are a region that has a clear focus of “Emerging, Enhancing, Embracing and Digging Deep to make it Happen.” Delta Beta Chapter Xinos earned the following recognitions: Academic Ex- cellence—Erica Shepherd, Kymorah Carter, Keearah Kyles-Newman and Katherine (AUSTIN, Texas)- March 16, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Watermark, an edu- Nellie; Informative Speaking—Katherine Nellie; Heritage Bowl Participants— cational intelligence software provider, announces its second year of the Wa- Maya Crawford, Tania Youman and Keearah Kyles-Newman (support); Talent— termark Scholars scholarship program, focusing on female students who are Erica Shepherd (modified poem, “Xinos Girl!! Xinos Girl!!”, dedicated to the rd pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) studies. women of Delta Beta Chapter); Chapter Activity Book—3 Place; and largest Two scholarships of $5,000 each will be awarded for the Fall 2021 aca- number of Xinos in attendance for the first ever virtual conference—12 Xinos. Delta Beta Chapter Kudos earned the following recognitions: Academic demic term. Entry deadline is July 15, 2021. Excellence—Jon Batiste, Charleston Rabb, Jonathan Porter, Juanel Sippio II and Who is Eligible? Artist Tyson; Informative Speaking—3rd Place—Jeremiah Adams; Heritage Bowl U.S. residents enrolled at U.S.-based colleges or universities (2- or 4-year Participant—Juanel Sippio II; Talent—1st Place, Poetry—Jeremiah Adams; Art— institutions), Identifies as a woman, and With a sophomore/second year-or- Photography—Jonathan Porter; and Chapter Scrapbook—1st Place. higher standing currently enrolled in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Special recognition goes to the newly elected 2021-2022 Southwest Re- Mathematics degree-granting program for Fall 2021 OR demonstrating plans gional Xinos President—Kymorah Carter; 2020-2021 Regional Officers—Xinos to pursue a career in the field of science or technology after graduation Vice-President—Erica Shepherd, Xinos Chaplain—Mariah Leonard and Kudos How to Apply: President—Artist Tyson; Regional Ambassadors—Xinos Kayla Owens and Kudos Students are asked to share stories of who inspired them to pursue a Jonathan Porter; Chapter Delegates—Xinos Hanna Austin and Kymorah Carter; career in science or technology and what they are inspired to do with that Chapter Delegates—Kudos Jonathan Porter and Juanel Sippio II; and Graduating knowledge in 500-word written essays or 2-minute video submissions. Seniors—Xinos Erica Shepherd, Mariah Leonard, Moniscia Blaylark and Zaria Watermark’s Scholarship Committee will review all of the submissions after Hamilton and Kudos Jonathan Porter. July 15, 2021, and assess each against a common set of criteria including: quality Special appreciation is extended to the Xinos Sponsor—Esther “Pixi” Phillips; of response, clarity and proficiency in communication, and polish of presenta- Kudos Sponsor—Brenda Kay Fowler; Hub Parents Advisor—Crystal L. Jones, HUB tion. Winners will be notified and asked to verify enrollment in an eligible parents and Delta Beta members for their untiring support of our youth through- institution. Previous applicants are eligible to reapply for the 2021 scholar- out the school year, and for helping to prepare our youth for their first virtual ship. regional conference. Watermark Scholars is an annual program intended to provide financial For information about membership into NSPDK, Inc. and its affiliate groups, opportunities to female college students pursuing STEM-related studies and please contact Delta Beta Chapter President Estelle Brooks at (512) 940-6741 or careers. email [email protected] www.theaustinvillager.com CLASSIFIEDS THE VILLAGER/March 19, 2021 ~ Page 7

Texas GOP introduce doesn’t matter your “This was already State Rep. Jared largest county in the party affiliation, what in process, but then the Patterson, a Republican country and the news slew of voting matters is our collective 2020 election was so in from Denton County, in- outlet reported the area efforts to agree and to the national spotlight, troduced one of the bills had the highest voter restriction bills achieve the goal of en- and so many people attempting to limit early turnout in the state. suring we promote in- have questions, so many voting hours to only in- “All of those were following 2020 elections tegrity in the election people have concerns,” clude the hours of 6 a.m. used by all voters both By DeMicia Inman | The GRIO process,” Abbott said he said to NBC News. “I and 9 p.m. Republican, Democrats, according to the news would say that has “Momma always Independents, folks (GRIO) - Republican “We must pass laws outlet in reference to raised the profile of the said nothing good hap- from all walks of life who lawmakers in Texas have to prevent election offi- the Harris County mail- issue.” pens after midnight,” he are eligible voters took moved to introduce laws cials from jeopardizing in ballot process. The He continued, “It’s tweeted. “Momma al- advantage of those poli- to tighten ID require- the election process,” outlet reported the gov- important that the sys- ways said nothing good cies,” Hidalgo responded ments, limit early voting Gov. Abbott said Monday ernor accused county tem be fair, but it’s happens after midnight. according to the report. and enhance conse- according to the report. elections offices of at- equally important that That includes at polling She addressed the quences for errors. He continued to urge law- tempting to send unso- people know it’s fair, so places. I filed HB 2293 GOP proposed laws on NBC News reported makers to move the bills licited applications to they’ll participate, so because of irregularities Twitter, writing “We’re more than two dozen quickly “to my desk so I millions of voters who they’ll vote.” in Harris County polling incredibly proud of hav- GOP-sponsored elec- can sign it.” would not be eligible to Changes proposed hours of operation and ing shattered turnout tions bills are under con- According to vote by mail. by the bills seek to limit the opportunity for records in 2020. That’s sideration in the Legisla- KHOU11, Abbot and NBC News reported early voting to certain voter fraud when no one how this beautiful sys- ture. The changes could other GOP leaders say Republican State Sen. hours or to standardize is looking.” tem is supposed to work. likely occur this year as the laws are to prevent Bryan Hughes intro- hours across the state, According to Hildalgo continued, the moves have seen voting fraud. duced the 27-page bill banning tents and ga- KHOU11, Harris County “Laws designed to hold support from Texas Gov- “Doesn’t matter with several new restric- rages for early voting, Judge Lina Hidalgo said on to power by sup- ernor Greg Abbott. what party you’re in, it tions and penalties. The and take aim at where the laws are a direct re- pressing votes is the laws have been empow- and when voters cast sponse to voter turnout stuff of failed states, not Listen Live ))) ered by the 2020 elec- their ballots before Elec- in the 2020 election. the greatest democracy tion. tion Day. Harris county is the third in the world.”

The AUSTIN COMMUNITY COLLEGE (ACC) Texas' last DISTRICT is requesting sealed bids from Breakfast qualified firms for the purposes of selecting a Public Utility respondent to provide anOnline Tutoring Plat- Commission Club form Services for the following solicitation. •Request for Competitive Sealed Proposal member New Jobs for the (CSP) No. 924-21-215-00-S-SMAll bids must resigns at Gov. be submitted to the Procure to Pay (P2P) De- Week of 03/14/21 partment buyer of record by no later than on Academic Coach Greg Abbott's Friday, April 2, 2021 at 12:00 PM Central Stan- Job2103032 request dard Time (CST). Solicitation documents are Highland Campus & available on the ACC website at:http:// Coordinator, BY CASSANDRA www.austincc.edu/offices/purchasing/adver- Clinical Lab-Nursing POLLOCK AND Job 2103030 SHAWN MULCAHY T. L. Wyatt Damita Shanklin tised-solicitations. All responses must be emailed to the buyer of record, by the date and Eastview Campus The Texas Tribune time indicated above and annotated in the so- Advocate, Special We Want YOU! licitation. Notice: ACC Business Offices and Populations (TXT) - Public Utility campus locations are currently closed to the Job2103028 Commission Chair Arthur Advertise With D'Andrea, the only re- public due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation. HaysCampus maining member of the However, the Business Services Office Staff are Director, Accounting The three-seat board that working remotely facilitate the needs of its cus- Job 2103027 Service Center regulates Texas utilities, is VILLAGER tomers. resigning from his post, Assistant, Senior Gov. Greg Abbott said Administrative Tuesday night. Job 2103026 Abbott said in a state- Highland Campus ment that he asked for and Assistant III, accepted D'Andrea's resig- Administrative nation and plans to name Job 2103024 "a replacement in the com- Highland Campus ing days who will have the Technician, Health responsibility of charting a Sciences Simulation new and fresh course for Specialist the agency." Job 2103023 He is the latest in a Highland Campus long line of officials who Coordinator, Student have left the PUC or the Affairs Communication Electric Reliability Council & Outreach of Texas since last Job 2103006 month's deadly winter Highland Business storm plunged large Center swaths of Texas into sub- freezing temperatures Program Manager, and overwhelmed the Governance, Risk & state's electricity infra- Compliance structure, causing mas- Job 2103003 sive power outages. At Service Center least 57 people died in Apply at HR Texas from hypothermia Middle Fiskville Rd. 6th Floor, Austin, TX 78752 — according to prelimi- Job Line (512 223-5621 nary data the state health hhtp://www./austincc.ed department released EEOC/AA/M/F/D/V Monday.

Are you interested in doing business with the City of Austin? We are here for you! City of Austin Purchasing Office Vendor Registration 512-974-2018 [email protected] www.austintexas.gov/department/purchasing For information on the City of Austin’s Minority/ Women-Owned Procurement Program please contact the Small & Minority Business Resources at 512-974-7600 or visit www.austintexas.gov/smbr. Page 8 ~ THE VILLAGER/March 19, 2021 THE DISPATCH www.theaustinvillager.com Senate GOP seeks ruling on Biden Democrats play defense limits on border wall funding BY REBECCA BEITSCH | THE HILL on border crisis BY CRISTINA MARCOS | THE HILL

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. PHOTO: Office Of The Governor (THE HILL) - The Durbin (Ill.), the Judi- the border to showcase An immigrant family is pictured awaiting COVID-19 test results on surge of migrants at the ciary Committee chair- their concerns. February 25, 2021 after being released by U.S. immigration southern border is put- man and second-ranking Democrats are ac- authorities in Brownsville, Texas. [JOHN MOORE/GETTY IMAGES] ting Democrats on the Senate Democrat. cusing the GOP of trying (THE HILL) - A Congress,” lawmakers their letter argued that defensive and building Homeland Security to change the subject group of 40 Republican wrote in a letter spear- notification does not pressure on Congress to Secretary Alejandro from their opposition to senators is asking the headed by Sen. Shelley qualify as a “special mes- consider comprehensive Mayorkas said Tuesday the $1.9 trillion COVID- Government Account- Moore Capito (R-W.V.). sage” needed to perma- immigration reform in that the number of at- 19 relief package, which ability Office (GAO) to The White House nently withdraw funds, the early months of tempted migrant cross- polls show is widely step in and limit Presi- referred The Hill to GAO adding that even if Biden President Biden’s new ings at the southern bor- popular with the Ameri- dent Biden’s ability to for comment, who did does so now it “will not term in office. der is on track to reach its can public. halt construction of the not immediately re- cure the unlawful ac- Biden and congres- highest level in two de- “The Republicans border wall. spond. tions he has taken to sional Democrats cam- cades. The recent surge have for a long period of Biden did so with The issue is a com- date.” paigned on reversing the has been attributed to a time used immigration an executive order on his plex one. The Supreme Court Trump administration’s variety of factors, includ- as a political football to first day in office, freez- The White House already agreed to cancel hard-line immigration ing the COVID-19 pan- impart fear and appre- ing nearly $1.4 billion in has frequently refused a hearing on the emer- policies with more hu- demic exacerbating eco- hension in the minds of funds Congress set aside to answer reporter gency funds used for the mane alternatives, but nomic hardship in Central Americans,” said House for the wall. questions about the re- wall after a number of it’s proving to be a tricky America, hurricanes in Majority Leader Steny But lawmakers say maining border wall organizations sued the balance of wanting to Honduras, and border Hoyer (D-Md.). the move infringes on funds and how they Trump administration. appear firm on border smugglers encouraging “We need to deal Congress’s power of the might be used. Funding for the security while encourag- migrants to come under with this present prob- purse, requesting a legal In February it also wall has already proven ing compassionate treat- the new U.S. president. lem, but what we need opinion from GAO. sent a formal notice to a political issue for ment of migrants seek- Republicans are to deal with ... is com- “An appropriations Congress that it would Biden, with Sen. Josh ing asylum. seizing on the perceived prehensive immigration act is a law like any terminate the emer- Hawley (R-Mo.) putting “I think we need to change in immigration reform so there is a ra- other; therefore, the gency designation that a hold on Department of deal with this reality at policies under Biden as tional system in place president must take care President Trump used to Homeland Security Sec- the border. I’ve said to a primary factor, with that we can all agree is a to ensure that appro- justify diverting military retary Alejandro the administration, House and Senate system that can and priations are prudently funding to its construc- Mayorkas’s nomination come forward with your GOP lawmakers making should and must work,” obligated in the manner tion. earlier this year due to plan,” said Sen. Dick highly publicized trips to he added. they were provided by But lawmakers in border wall funding. Biden admin unveils $10B Homeland Security head school testing plan for rejects GOP claims of Covid-19 border `crisis’ The program is aimed at helping in-person learning restart By BEN FOX and NOMAAN MERCHANT | AP NEWS broadly before the school year's end.

By DAVID LIM | POLITICO

(POLITICO) - The $122 billion in new Covid tions that have been hit Biden administration relief funding for the hard by the pandemic. WASHINGTON humanitarian crisis.” Biden in a difficult spot. will spend $10 billion to nation’s K-12 schools, “COVID-19 testing is (AP) — The head of the The number of mi- He is criticized by Repub- screen schoolchildren which the agency said critical to saving lives and Department of Home- grants being stopped at licans for what they view for Covid-19 to help has- would be made available restoring economic activ- land Security, pushing the U.S.-Mexico border as encouragement to il- ten their return to in- to states “this month.” ity,” said Norris Cochran, back against Republican has been rising since last legal border crossers person learning. Education Secre- acting secretary of Health criticism of the Biden April, and the adminis- and by some Democrats The Centers for Dis- tary Miguel Cardona and Human Services. “As administration’s border tration is still rapidly over the prolonged de- ease Control and Pre- sent letters to state offi- part of the Biden policies, refused on sending back most single tention of minors. The vention will administer cials, notifying them of Administration’s National Wednesday to say that a adults and families un- situation is also a chal- the school-screening their share of the fund- Strategy, HHS will con- surge of migrant chil- der a public health order lenge to his effort to program, announced ing, which is being allo- tinue to expand our ca- dren entering the United issued by Trump at the overhaul broader Trump Wednesday. The agency cated based on a for- pacity to get testing to the State is a “crisis.” start of the COVID-19 policies intended to cur- is giving $10 billion in mula in the Covid-19 re- individuals and the places As GOP members pandemic. But the U.S. is tail both legal and illegal American Rescue Plan lief law. that need it most, so we of Congress argued that now allowing teens and immigration. funds to states and cer- States and school can prevent transmission President Joe Biden had children to stay, at least “I can say quite tain cities to set up test- districts “should plan to of the virus and defeat the wrongly rolled back im- temporarily, and they clearly: Don’t come ing, with the aim of re- expend these funds to pandemic.” migration policies en- have been coming in over,” Biden said in an opening schools in the safely reopen schools as The announce- acted by former Presi- ever larger numbers. ABC News interview that final months of the expeditiously as possible ment comes a day after dent Donald Trump, DHS More than 4,000 aired Wednesday. school year. this spring, sustain their the Food and Drug Ad- Secretary Alejandro migrant children were The number of mi- The CDC and state healthy operations, and ministration announced Mayorkas pointed to an- being held by the Border grants attempting to and local health depart- address the significant it would allow some other Trump policy that Patrol as of Sunday, in- cross the border is at the ments will provide tech- academic, social, emo- Covid-19 test developers was widely reviled: the cluding at least 3,000 in highest level since nical assistance to tional, and mental to sell their products separation of immigrant custody longer than the March 2019. Mayorkas schools to help set up health needs of their over the counter with- families under a “zero 72-hour limit set by a on Tuesday said it was and implement the new students,” Cardona out studying how well tolerance” policy on bor- court order, according to on pace to hit a 20-year screening programs in wrote in the letter. the tests perform in der crossings. a U.S. official. The peak. schools. The idea is to The administration people without symp- “A crisis is when a agency took in an addi- “The situation at repeatedly test students coupled the school test- toms — as long as the nation is willing to rip a tional 561 on Monday, the southwest border is and teachers for Covid- ing announcement with test is accurate in people 9-year-old child out of twice the recent aver- difficult,” Mayorkas said 19 to detect those who the news that it is spend- with symptoms. CDC the hands of his or her age, according to a sec- in his most extensive re- are infected but without ing $2.25 billion to bol- also released updated parent and separate that ond official. Both offi- marks to date on the symptoms to limit the ster testing and contact guidance Wednesday on family to deter future cials spoke on condition subject. “We are work- spread of the virus. tracing in high-risk and the use of repeated test- migration,” Mayorkas of anonymity to discuss ing around the clock to The Education De- underserved communi- ing to stop the spread of told the House Home- figures not yet publicly manage it and we will partment on Wednes- ties, such as those in ru- Covid-19 by people who land Security Commit- released. continue to do so. That day also moved to begin ral areas or with signifi- are infected but do not tee. “That, to me, is a The rise has left is our job.” distributing the nearly cant minority popula- have symptoms.