Olympic-sized challenges await Mallard Creek High graduate Gabbi Cunningham – namely packing for the trip to Tokyo TThhee CChhaarrllootttteeTHE VOICE P POF THE BLACKo oCOMMUNITYss SINCEtt 1906 WEEK OF JULY 22, 2021 VOLUME 47, NUMBER 46 WWW.THECHARLOTTEPOST.COM $1.50 Juvenile justice adjusts with law NC’s Raise the Age results in fewer teens charged as adults By Nadia Ramlagan NORTH CAROLINA NEWS SERVICE RALEIGH – In 2019, North Caro- lina stopped charging most 16- and 17-year-olds as adults, and a new report looks at the law’s ef- fects on the state's juvenile-justice system. The state reported there was only a 38% increase in the number of ATRIUM HEALTH youths referred to juvenile deten- Atrium Health President and CEO Gene Woods has led the company’s growth and stature as a regional economic power over five years. tion, about half of what was pre- dicted, after raising the age a person can be charged as an adult to 18. Tarrah Callahan, executive direc- Atrium Health CEO: It pays tor of Raleigh-based Conservatives for Criminal Justice Reform, pointed to the numerous societal benefits of not charging kids as adults. to be nimble in business, life “Enabling this population to start out their lives as 18-year-olds with- Gene Woods on flexibility, health care equity and his passion for music out an adult criminal record hang- By Herbert L. White trustees, talked about his early life, men- where a lot of actually interracial couples ing around their necks, to the fact [email protected] torship, leadership and equity at a recent in the Navy would go and had a robust that the majority of the kids in this A calendar mixup led Gene Woods into session of The Post’s C-Suite Conver- Portuguese population. So actually, it system are coming in with a men- a career in health administration. sations. Responses are edited for brevity was born on a base in Providence, it's tal-health diagnosis and really Atrium Health’s president and CEO as- and clarity. called Quonset Point. We lived there for ought to be treated accordingly,” pired to become a business professional His upbringing: a while, then in New Jersey then ended she said. when he enrolled at Pennsylvania State Woods: My father was born in a rural up going back to Spain. And so really the Because the first full year of University but veered to a different path town in Tennessee called Yuma, [in] most formative times in my life, I spent North Carolina’s Raise the Age law after a chance meeting with a hospital western Tennessee. I think the pop- seven years in Spain as a child from 4 all happened during the COVID-19 administrator at a health career day. In ulation when he was born was about the way to 11. pandemic, the report found the five years as Atrium Health’s CEO, 300, and so he tried to get out of there My mom is the oldest of 12, and my number of juvenile court cases Woods has led the company to unprece- as soon as possible and joined the Navy. dad’s the oldest of nine, so every time dipped dramatically and reduced dented growth that includes Charlotte’s And along his travels, he ended up in the family gets together, there's a lot the state's overall youth detention first medical school and recognition by Rota, Spain, southern Spain. going on. It's a big party, so that’s the population. the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Serbia is where my mother was born kind of environment I grew up in. Callahan pointed out both sides Services in 2020 for initiatives to reduce about an hour south of that town, so What directed him to health care ad- of the political aisle tout public health disparities. they actually got married, and it couldn't ministration: safety as a priority, but haven’t di- Woods, who is past chairman of the have been a more unlikely couple. Then Woods: The folks I grew up with, some gested the volume of data on the American Hospital Association board of they moved to Rhode Island. That's Please see ATRIUM | 2A efficacy of juvenile-detention pol- icies. “When we can show that tough- on-crime, ‘lock ‘em up and throw away the key’ policies, particularly «APPRECIATION for children, are not effective, then it really suggests that we need to James Cuthbertson, Please see FEWER | 2A father of The Post’s HBCUs split Top Seniors honor into haves, By Herbert L. White have-nots [email protected] By Piper Hudspeth Blackburn, Before he was a championship-winning tennis coach, James Oscar Cuthbertson Jr. was a champion Jeff Amy and Larry Fenn of Black academic achievement. THE ASSOCIATED PRESS Mr. Cuthbertson, founder of The Post’s Top Seniors ATLANTA — Two recent high- initiative, died July 8 at age 71. As a staff reporter in profile faculty appointments could 1975, he turned a lack of inclusion of Black high be a fundraising and enrollment school seniors in Charlotte-Mecklenburg into an an- bonanza for Howard University, nual recognition. Although his responsibilities in- one of the nation’s most presti- cluded writing the popular Prep Chatter TROY HULL | THE CHARLOTTE POST gious Black colleges. Many other sports column, Top Seniors was his sig- Mecklenburg County Public Health Director Gibbie Harris is retiring after nearly 40 years Black schools are not so fortunate; nature idea. of public health. in fact, many are struggling. “The [Charlotte] Observer had an out- Some, especially standing display of outstanding seniors smaller private col- in Mecklenburg County by school, and leges, have been fight- if you were not [No.] 1 or 2 in your class, Public health director bows ing for their survival you probably wouldn’t make that,” Mr. for years, with weak Cuthbertson Cuthbertson said in a 2014 interview endowments, aging recognizing Top Seniors’ 40th anniver- out – for certain this time buildings and steady sary. “Consequently, they didn’t have a wide array By Aaliyah Bowden work this time,” Harris said with a enrollment declines, of students.” all made worse by the [email protected] laugh. “I used to joke about the fact Dillard Top Seniors grew from a single-page announce- Mecklenburg County Public Health that I’m going into retirement. Once coronavirus pan- ment of 10 scholars in The Post’s print edition to a Director Alma “Gibbie” Harris is re- [the job is] in your blood, it’s sort of demic. “While larger HBCUs often glossy magazine with upwards of 200 student pro- tiring – again. hard to stop. I don’t know anybody have the funding resources nec- files, scholarships and public recognition as part of In 2015, Harris retired from Bun- in public health who ever quit doing essary to attract accomplished tal- the annual Charlotte Post Best gala. combe County Department of some work in that area, so I ent like Nikole Hannah-Jones and Mr. Cuthbertson’s passion was tennis, and he suc- Health but was then called in 2017 wouldn’t be surprised if I get in- Ta-Nehisi Coates, many smaller in- ceeded as a player and coach. At Olympic High to serve as Mecklenburg’s director. volved in volunteer work or possibly stitutions need donors to step for- School, he was the Trojans’ No. 3 seed, followed by In nearly 40 years in public health, consulting work.” ward, contributing much-needed a career at UNC Charlotte, where he joined the team Harris has earned numerous acco- Harris, 69, grew up in Statesville, financial resources for us to com- upon its return to campus in 1971. He earned his lades, including The Post’s 2020 where she had a legacy of health pete,” said Paulette Dillard, pres- varsity letter as a senior the next year. Newsmaker of the Year and North workers on her father’s side, which ident of Shaw University in Raleigh. At Johnson C. Smith, Mr. Cuthbertson coached the Carolina Health Director of the Year inspired her to pursue nursing. Har- Hannah-Jones accepted a faculty Golden Bulls men’s team to their most successful in 2011. ris’ grandfather worked in a hospi- position at Howard amid contro- Please see JAMES CUTHBERTSON | 2A “I’m going to see if I can make it Please see MECKLENBURG|3A Please see ACCLAIM | 2A

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«APPRECIATION Atrium Health CEO James Cuthbertson, father Continued from page 1A part of the mission. of them wanted to be doctors, some It showed up in the middle of of them wanted to be lawyers. No- COVID. Last April, when we saw in of Top Seniors and JCSU body knew what a healthcare admin- West Charlotte, in the West End area, istrator did. Nobody had any sense of that there were disparities in testing, what that was. I’m fluent in Spanish for example, it was all about action. It tennis coach, dies at age 71 because my mother spoke to me in wasn’t about words at that time. So, Spanish since day one, and I knew I we loaded up our roving vans, we Continued from page 1A liked business, so I thought I was work with the church communities, the campus tennis courts after Mr. Cuth- stretch ever with six straight CIAA cham- going to do some type of international and we made sure that those testing bertson and Winston R. Coleman. pionships (1999-2004), nine division ti- business. I spoke to a professor, and disparities were eliminated, working Mr. Cuthbertson earned a bachelor’s de- tles and four conference coach of the year he said, ‘Well, you’re in luck, there's a on the same thing with vaccines. I gree in history from UNC Charlotte and awards. During that span, JCSU won 84 career day on international business. think we have a powerful mission, master’s in journalism from UNC Chapel straight league matches. He was named Somehow, I got the dates messed up from the board throughout the organ- Hill. He was a member of the Charlotte the inaugural women’s coach in 1998 and and actually went to the healthcare ca- ization feel it, have internalized it. … Alumni chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fra- led them to a runner-up finish in the reer day where there was a local hos- I think it really, it's a culture that's ternity. He served in numerous capacities CIAA’s first women’s tournament in 2002. pital administrator, and he said ready to continue to grow and be the at JCSU, including Disability Services co- In 18 years as coach (1998-2016), Mr. healthcare is going through signifi- lead organization in the country for ordinator, Reading Language Specialist, Cuthbertson racked up a 245-212 record cant transformation and we need social impact, starting with our com- Learning Resource Coordinator, Transfer with the men and 164-207 with the some young, bright minds to really munities, but also, we believe that we Mentor and advisor to the Fellowship of women. help us transform healthcare. can be a national model. Christian Athletes. In 2008, the board of trustees named If you care about community, if you Atrium’s leadership: really care about community, being a Woods: I feel extraordinarily good. healthcare executive is one of the best You know, there’s always work to do. «RAISE THE AGE ways you can actually improve So, every day I get up, saying, OK, people's health and wellbeing. And so what’s next? And how do we continue really, after that one little mistake, I to advance but from the board decided to join the undergraduate through the leadership team, every- Fewer NC teens charged program, Penn State Health Planning body's committed to help hope and administration, at the time was the healing for all. And it's not just words largest in the country, in terms of un- on some paper, it's really something dergrads. And so, and the rest is his- that gets us up and gets us motivated as adults with law change tory, as they say. every day. Continued from page 1A Impact of mentors: young children, and in some states, that's On being nimble a corporation: contemplate a much more holistic ap- I've always thought big and large. under the age of ten, that still can be If you are a $12 billion organization proach,” Callahan said. I’ve always knew from the day I be- treated as adults,” Mistrett said. “Those [like Atrium Health], if you get bigger Marcy Mistrett, senior fellow at The Sen- came an undergraduate at Penn State are for more serious crimes, generally and slower, that's not going to work in tencing Project and the report’s author, that I wanted to aspire to really have speaking, but that should not be allowed. today’s environment. So, agility is explained some states’ Raise the Age re- as big an influence and significance of The United States is an outlier in that.” really critical, and it has to do with forms haven’t addressed other pathways a difference that I could make. I Mistrett added mounting evidence sug- how we make decisions. I'll give you into adult court, such as judicial transfer thought that was going to be as CEO gests states should work to close expen- an example. In the middle of COVID, or automatic transfer, laws that allow as a larger organization, so that was sive and largely ineffective detention when things were really peaking, we youths to be charged as adults for more my dream from the beginning. Along centers and redirect resources toward a were running out of bed space and we serious offenses regardless of their age, those lines, I had some wonderful continuum of community care that allows knew that we had maybe two to three and are disproportionately applied to what I would say sponsors, more so the vast majority of youths to remain in weeks maximum before we would fill Black and brown youths. than mentors. their communities with strong supports. up our beds. “We have pathways that allow very My first job in a hospital was in a lit- … Physicians came to me and said tle rural town in Pennsylvania Tyrone ‘we got an idea that we can care for Hospital, the CEO there was African patients at home with COVID. We’ve American, and he helped me [by] giv- got the monitoring systems, we've got ing me increasingly big jobs to do at the medics that can go into the Acclaim, fundraising spread the time. I’d never had any experience houses, we've got everything. So, we’d and some of the things that he had me like to go ahead and give this a try.’ do and it was my way of learning and And within a matter of a couple of unevenly among HBCUs him helping guide me throughout it. weeks, we had made a major decision Continued from page 1A nations, at least for some. the pandemic, hire more He exposed me to a lot of his net- like providing care for COVID patients versy over whether she Mackenzie Scott, the ex- faculty, offer pay raises work essentially, so I got to meet folks in their home safely. And we've seen would be granted tenure at wife of former Amazon and upgrade heating and early in my career that I might not about 80,000 patients now at home. UNC Chapel Hill after founder Jeff Bezos, gave air-conditioning systems. have otherwise met and formed a re- So, the ability for being a large organ- critics questioned her cre- $560 million to 22 Black Student debt is a signifi- lationship with. And then I also ization to make decisions that quick dentials, specifically her colleges, including some cant drag on graduates of worked for one of the largest health is really important. Pulitzer Prize-winning with very limited endow- historically Black colleges, systems in the country, Catholic I always say my goal is and will con- work “The 1619 Project,” ments, as well as to the and administrators say it Health Initiatives. And the CEO there, tinue to be no matter how large we get which traces the country’s Thurgood Marshall College hurts enrollment. Limited Kevin Lofton … also really put a lot of is to make [Atrium Health], for lack of history with slavery. Fund and the United Negro endowments mean their faith in me and kept giving me more a better way of saying it, a small-town Coates, a Howard graduate, College Fund, both of campuses can’t subsidize areas of responsibility. And that's how feel, so that people know each other, is a journalist and best-sell- which raise money for tuition as much as wealth- I kind of developed and learned and and we build different forums for ing author who also re- Black colleges and univer- ier colleges. A large per- grew. people to connect. And my team cently joined Howard’s sities. Netflix founder Reed centage of students The other thing I will say, we talk knows no matter where they're at, in faculty. Hastings and his wife, enrolled at historically about white allies these days, and I Georgia or anywhere else, if they if Billions of dollars in fed- Patty Quillin, split $120 Black colleges come from had a number of folks coming up – they need to talk to me, I'll typically eral virus relief will help million among the United the poorest families, those white males – that really also showed get back to them the same day or the higher education, but it Negro College Fund, Spel- making $20,000 a year or me the ropes and gave me opportu- next day. may not be enough to man and Morehouse. less, which forces them to nity. So, I've been blessed with a lot of On Charlotte’s evolution from bank- change the long-term for- Former New York mayor borrow. Federal figures folks helping me throughout this jour- ing center 20 years ago to becoming a tunes of some historically and entrepreneur Michael show the typical Black col- ney. leader in medicine. Black schools. An Associ- Bloomberg pledged $100 lege graduate who bor- On leading a company like Atrium We aim to make it that way. We’re al- ated Press analysis of en- million for student aid at rowed money owes with its own history of bias against ready known nationally in so many rollment and endowment the four historically Black $52,000 in student loan Blacks, and the charge of improving ways at Atrium, and we believe to this data shows wide dispar- medical schools. debt, roughly double what health outcomes for everyone [new] medical school through this in- ities among 102 histori- “It’s allowing the schools the typical white student I think that's a really important novation district and through the new cally Black colleges and to see the opportunity to owes. question. I mean, I think, first of all, care sites that we’re providing in the universities, and a further be bigger than they pre- In addition to giving obviously, the board here five years strategies that we have this will be divide between private and viously thought was pos- more financial aid to stu- ago decided to hire me, first and fore- known as a healthcare town as well. public institutions. sible,” said Harry Williams, dents, many Black colleges most, because they felt I could do the And I think that's just good for the re- As one example, the five president and chief ex- are considering using their job. And that's always the important gion, and it’s good for North Carolina. wealthiest private Black ecutive of the Thurgood federal pandemic money thing, but also because they knew, On showcasing musical talents: colleges had endowments Marshall fund. to create campus work- given my background, that social jus- Woods: Actually, I’m in the middle ranging from $73,000 per Yet many lesser-known study jobs through which tice has been always something that's of finalizing an album. … We’re going student to more than schools continue to strug- students can earn income, been part of who I am, including when to put that out probably in the fall $200,000, far above the gle and scrape for money. provide subsidized child- I was chairman of the American Hos- sometime. I have some serious median endowment of less Shaw, one of the oldest his- care, buy personal com- pital Association, which is the lobby- players. I’ve got the trombone player than $16,000 per student. torically Black colleges in puters and help students ing organization for 5,000 hospitals in ran James Brown’s band for a decade. The largest endowment for the South, has an endow- pay for high-speed internet the country. And I’ve got sax player from Charlotte a public Black college was ment worth just $8,436 per connections. I started a national movement who actually played with Prince, I've less than $25,000 per stu- student and did not benefit At Shaw, officials hope around having health equity, so they got a whole bunch of who’s who on dent, though the public significantly from the wave renewed national interest knew that came to it as well. I think the album. It’s been fun because it's schools also receive state of private giving last year, in historically Black col- that's why they brought me on. If you been the job that I do is 24/7/365. It’s aid. said David Byrd, the col- leges and the role they play look at our mission, it’s to improve nice to every once in a while, get to Overall enrollment in his- lege’s vice president of fi- could spark enthusiasm health elevate hope and advance heal- the studio and do something a little torically Black colleges has nance. for schools with much ing for all, so when I first came here, bit different. … It's been very good for declined 11% in the most The college is able to smaller endowments that that was the most actually inspiring my mental health. recent 10-year period for “pay the bills” and get by, have had to choose be- which data is available, he said, but still has $26 tween updating buildings, from 325,609 in 2010 to million in deferred mainte- closing programs or keep- 289,507 in 2019. Enroll- nance. Shaw and other ing tuition affordable for ment at some campuses smaller Black colleges that their students. dropped by half during mostly depend on tuition More than 80% of Shaw’s Greenwood Massacre survivor that span, and several ad- are counting on help from undergraduates are eligible ministrators said enroll- the federal coronavirus re- for federal Pell Grants, ments dropped further lief championed by Pres- compared to roughly 45% shares story of terror and loss during the coronavirus ident Joe Biden and passed of Howard students. But By Stacy M. Brown in the thousands, a “I went to bed in my fam- pandemic last year. As a by Congress this spring. Byrd, the school’s financial NATIONAL NEWSPAPER number that included ily’s home in Greenwood, a rule, Black colleges also That aid package will send officer, said that’s also PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION many women and children. community that was rich, haven’t had the fundrais- roughly $2.6 billion to his- where the university has WASHINGTON — On the Two of those children, not only in terms of ing ability of other univer- torically Black colleges, al- had an impact for the past evening of May 31 1921, a Viola Fletcher, age 7, and wealth, but in culture, sities. The cumulative though the U.S. century and a half: giving vicious white mob from her newly community, and heritage. endowment for all histori- Department of Education low-income students the neighboring Tulsa, Okla- born brother, My family had a beautiful cal Black colleges through has not yet announced tools to find a career and homa, descended on the Hughes Van home. We had great neigh- 2019 was a little more than how it will allocate the succeed. prosperous African Ameri- Ellis, now 107 bors, and I had friends to $3.9 billion. That’s about money. “People think we want a can community of Green- and 100 re- play with. equal to the endowment Shaw plans to use the handout for nothing. We wood, intent on murdering, spectively are She continued: for the University of Min- money to fix older build- have a proven track record looting and burning that survivors of “I felt safe and had every- nesota alone. ings and dormitories and for producing a certain community to the ground. those two ter- thing a child could ask for. Of that amount, just expand a variety of student type of kid for 150 years,” rible days in I had a bright future ahead eight private Black colleges services. The federal aid Byrd said. “So, it’s not In the aftermath of the Fletcher nightmare that unfolded 1921. of me there in Greenwood, held 54% of the total: Spel- can be used to make up for really a handout; it’s an in- for Greenwood’s Black res- Viola Fletcher – affection- a place that could have man College, Hampton lost tuition income during vestment.” idents, every home and ately known as Mother given me the chance to University, Meharry Medi- business was destroyed, at Fletcher – appeared on the truly make a good life in cal College, Xavier Univer- sity of Louisiana, Blazing Fast an estimated cost in 1921 National Newspaper Pub- this country. But within a Internet! dollars of $4.5 million dol- lishers Association’s morn- few horrible hours, all of Morehouse College, Tuske- ADD TO YOUR PACKAGE FOR ONLY ing breaking news that was gone….” gee University, the More- $ 99 lars. 19./mo. Those survivors who wer- program, “Let It Be The night of the mas- house School of Medicine where available en’t able to escape the con- Known,” on July 19. sacre, Fletcher was roused and Howard, which counts flagration, which included Fletcher, who witnessed with her siblings by her Vice President Kamala Har- 2-YEAR TV PRICE GUARANTEE World War 1-era biplanes most of the violence and parents, Lucinda Ellis and ris among its graduates. $ 99 America’s Top 120 Package dropping gas bombs, horror, says she’s been John Wesley Ford, and Last summer’s protests 64 MO. 190 CHANNELS found themselves being haunted every day of her were told they had to leave over racial injustice for 12 Mos. Including Local Channels! their home immediately. brought renewed attention herded at gunpoint into long life with terrible CALL TODAY - For $100 Gift Card Promo Code: DISH100 concentration camps. dreams and memories. When the family came to historically Black col- The number of killed and “On that first night,” out into the street, they leges and universities and 1-855-376-8603 Offer ends 7/14/21. All offers require credit qualification, 24-month commitment with early termination fee and eAutoPay. Prices include Hopper Duo for qualifying customers. Hopper, injured are believed to be Mother Fletcher recounted, Please see TULSA|3A led to a surge in private do- Hopper w/Sling or Hopper 3 $5/mo. more. Upfront fees may apply based on credit qualification. 3A NEWS | The Charlotte Post Thursday, July 22, 2021 Mecklenburg public health Tulsa massacre survivor Continued from page 2A conceivable accomplishment of this director set to retire – again were greeted with images of unspeak- nation, including the civil rights able violence. movement, and even the election of a Last year, Harris and the “She was committed to Continued from page 1A The smell of acrid smoke and or- Black president,” said Dr. Toni Luck, Mecklenburg health de- working on dealing with tal, her grandmother was ange hot glow from burning homes, chief operating officer of Our Black partment were faced with health disparities, particu- an Army nurse, and other businesses and buildings created a Truth Inc., a recently launched social trying to stop the spread of larly among family members were horrific glow in the night sky. Chil- media platform designed to provide the novel coronavirus African Amer- physicians and worked in dren saw bodies of the dead lying in freedom of expression and respectful amid a global pandemic. icans, work- the field. the streets as the white mob made its exchange that members of the African The department com- ing on In 1976, she graduated way through Greenwood. American community often do not ex- pleted COVID-19 testing, diabetes and with a bachelor’s degree in “We were lucky. Many people perience on some social media plat- contact tracing, com- heart disease nursing from UNC Chapel weren’t. I will never forget the vio- forms municated with the media, and high Hill and returned to the lence of the white mob as we made “And then you have people like and started a hotline to an- blood pres- school to become a reg- our escape, and to this day I still see Mother Viola Fletcher, who lived to swer people’s questions sure,” he said. istered nurse, as well as Dunlap Black men being shot, still smell see all of that, but who has been about the virus, which is Chief Rob- earn a master’s degree in smoke and everything around us on haunted for 100 years by painful ongoing. ert Graham at Char-Meck public health. In 1982, Har- fire,” Mother Fletcher said. memories of all she and others in the In December when vac- Emergency Management ris was the first employee “I still see airplanes flying overhead Greenwood community suffered cines rolled out, there was worked with Harris in 2018 at Caldwell County Hos- dropping firebombs. and still hear the those two days from May 30 to June greater interest in getting during Hurricane Florence pice Incorporated and screams of terrified people. I relive 1, 1921. the shot, but interest has and has formed a close helped build the program the Massacre every day.” “It’s for this reason that my organi- waned since. friendship with her. from the ground up as the In May 2021, as Tulsa, enriched with zation and our sponsors are taking “Now we’re at a place “She’s like 5-feet tall, but state’s first facility. millions of dollars dedicated to the Mother Fletcher and Uncle Redd to Af- where we are having she stands like she’s a hun- “In the beginning for a centennial of the Tulsa Massacre, rica. When we met her and her brother smaller pop-up clinics dred feet tall,” Graham while I was the only em- Fletcher made an appearance before in Tulsa during the Centennial, she ex- where people can easily ac- said. “When Gibbie speaks, ployee,” she said. “I sort of Congress to give testimony regarding pressed a wish to finally and at last cess the vaccine,” Harris people listen.” did it all there in the begin- the hardships of her life. see Africa, a personal dream Mother said. “We’re going door to Graham added that Har- ning and then slowly they “When my family was forced to Fletcher’s had for decades. door to educate people on ris is very personable. started adding staff so that leave Tulsa, I lost my chance at a good “And thanks to my partners, two the vaccine, helping them “Gibbie and I the talk all we were able to expand the education. I never finished school young African American geniuses, Mi- understand how to access the time,” he said. “We talk service in that com- past the fourth grade. I never made chael and Eric Thompson, founders of the vaccine. So, for our about non-COVID things. I munity.” much money,” Fletcher told Congress. the new social media platform, Our staff and for our other want to make sure that As health director for “My country, the state of Oklahoma, Black Truth, she will, at long last make partners in the com- she’s OK mentally, and in a Wake, Buncombe, and and city of Tulsa took a lot from me that wished for dream come true, re- munity, it’s been an evolu- good place, and she wants Mecklenburg counties, she and from so many others. Despite placing bad memories with what we tion of making sure that to make sure that I’m OK responded to several pub- this, I spent time supporting the coun- know will be good ones in beautiful we're meeting the need at and that our staff [is] OK.” lic health crises. try during the Second World War, Ghana.” the time because the need Harris said she plans on She worked for Wake working in California’s shipyards.” In addition, Our Black Truth will also continues to change.” spending more time with County Human Services She continued: produce a documentary film to cap- As of July 14, there have her family in retirement. amid the HIV epidemic in “But for most of my life, I was a do- ture every moment of this historic oc- been 115,518 COVID cases She and her husband, 1992 and Hurricane Ka- mestic worker serving white families. casion. and 990 deaths reported in Chuck, have been married trina in 2005. Harris wore But to this day, I can barely afford my Fletcher and her brother, Hughes Mecklenburg, according to 42 years and they have two several hats there, prima- everyday needs, while the city of Van Ellis, known in the community as the health department. children and two grand- rily as health director, but Tulsa has unjustly used the names “Uncle Redd,” will be traveling to Half of residents have re- children. She enjoys cook- also as a program manager and stories of victims like me to en- Accra, Ghana, West Africa in August ceived at least one dose of ing gumbo and watching for HIV and STD programs, rich itself while I continue to live in where the itinerary includes hospital- the vaccine, and 46% are “Star Trek” and “Star and as a nurse practitioner. poverty.” ity courtesy of the Ghanaian people, fully vaccinated, which re- Wars.” When Katrina struck New After years of being relegated as hid- meeting government officials, tribal flects statewide trends. “I feel like I have created Orleans, Wake County den history, Tulsa’s Black Wall Street chiefs and Nanas; a tour Cape Coast to County Commissioners an environment where created a shelter for the massacre has finally begun to gain its see the dungeons at the slave castles Chair George Dunlap said people can come together victims. rightful place in the history of the there and stand in the “Door of No Re- that Harris has helped to successfully address “We had a facility that the United States, with news media inter- turn.” navigate Mecklenburg public health issues,” Har- county managed,” said views and entertainment programs They will also be greeted by Our through the global pan- ris said. “The two things I Harris. “We housed around (most notably “60 Minutes” on CBS, Black Truth’s on-ground partner, H.E. demic. enjoy most about working 700 individuals that came and HBO’s “The Watchmen” series), Ambassador Erieka Bennett, head of “She basically led Meck- in public health is working from New Orleans. We had and documentary films retelling the mission at the Diaspora Africa Forum, lenburg County through with a dedicated public three planes. We had story of the events that took place. the only embassy for the African Di- both the pandemic, and health staff to do the work adults, we had children, we Most Americans, until now, had very aspora, located in Accra. through COVID,” Dunlap we need to do for and with had families. And so, they little knowledge of, and when and if it “They will be feted by an adoring said. “One of the things we our community. If we don’t lived at that site for three was spoken of, was classified as a public here in Accra, and receive wanted to do was speak have a strong, dedicated, weeks. We were able to “race riot,” which has very different honors from Ghanaian chiefs and with one voice, and she passionate, public health transition everybody out at connotations than a massacre. nanas and a delegation of nobles from was that.” staff, we can’t get it done.” the end of three weeks. We “Imagine a long life where you saw Nigeria based here in Accra,” Bennett Dunlap also pointed out Aaliyah Bowden, who didn’t want them to stay in men walk on the moon, and every said. the shelter indefinitely, Harris’ work with address- covers health for The Post, and they didn't either,” ing health disparities in is a Report for America Harris said. Black communities. corps member.

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The Community Energy Center, a cooperative with the National Newspaper Publishers Association and National Association of Hispanic Publications Media, will provide information and perspectives on the integral role of the energy sector in daily life for American families in a wide range of communities. 4A OPINION | The Charlotte Post Thursday, July 22, 2021 TheThe CharlotteCharlotte PostPost Gov. Cooper maps alternative plan The Voice of the Black Community North Carolina may go a where people are better sis and making our state better, more inclusive Gerald O. Johnson | CEO/PUBLISHER third straight year without educated, healthier, with more resilient in the face of place to live and work for a new state budget. We def- more money in their increasing storms.” He everyone.” [email protected] initely will go an 11th pockets, and where there would “expand access to He’d also make job train- Robert L. Johnson | PUBLISHER/GENERAL MANAGER straight year without a are more equitable oppor- clean energy technologies, ing more affordable and budget written by Demo- tunities for people to have invest in clean energy eco- available. He’d invest in in- [email protected] crats. lives of purpose and abun- nomic development, pro- frastructure – from schools What would such a crea- dance. Every single day I mote offshore wind, and to bridges to broadband. Herbert L. White | EDITOR IN CHIEF ture look like? Democratic come to work with this build the clean energy He’d help businesses hurt [email protected] Gov. Roy Cooper has goal in mind.” workforce to catalyze by the pandemic – restau- shown us. As political messages go, North Carolina’s econ- rants, hotels, conventions, Published weekly by The Charlotte Post Publishing Company His plan is it’s somewhat clunky. But omy.” hospitality and tourism. Inc., 5118 Princess Street, Charlotte, NC 28269 (USPS #965500). sweeping and it’s clear. And Cooper has “It means investing in In 2017 and 2018, the Subscription is $65 per year. Periodicals postage paid at Char- starkly differ- stuck to it consistently public schools.” He wants legislature overrode lotte, NC. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Charlotte ent from since he ran in 2016. “more children getting Cooper’s vetoes and Post, PO Box 30144, Charlotte, NC 28230 budgets Senate Republicans, sup- high quality pre-K and a passed its own budget. His passed by Re- ported by four Democrats, healthy start at birth. More vetoes withstood override publicans passed their budget last children who learn to read attempts in 2019 and since 2011. month. (The Democrats’ in elementary school. More 2020, and the state went GARY Cooper would districts would get a lot of children inspired to learn without an updated transform money in the package.) trades in middle school. budget. Spending con- Missing woman PEARCE North Caro- The Senate budget is more And more well-paid edu- tinued at prior levels, leav- lina’s health- of the same since 2011: cators who can guide chil- ing needs unmet and care, education, energy more tax cuts for corpora- dren as well as adults issues unaddressed. use, infrastructure, job tions, limited budget in- getting trained for a sec- The governor’s plan in Manteo isn’t training, pandemic assis- creases for public schools ond career.” won’t pass this year, again. tance and approach to ra- and paltry pay raises (3% “And that means paying We’ll see if he persuades cial issues. over two years) for teachers more” – 10% Republicans to make sig- Virginia Dare But few North Carolin- teachers. raises over the next two nificant changes. But he ians know that. The governor says his years. Cooper would spend has met his responsibility, What happened to her? News tends to focus on approach “means fighting $1.5 billion of the $6.5 bil- as the state’s chief ex- If you raise this question in Manteo on Roanoke Is- the legislature; something for access to affordable, lion in surplus revenue to ecutive and the Democratic land at the edge of the Outer Banks, people will think newsworthy happens there quality healthcare.” He “meet (the state’s) consti- Party’s leader, to offer an you are asking about Virginia Dare. In 1587, she was nearly every day. Cooper would expand Medicaid tutional obligation of en- alternative vision for North the first English child born in North America. isn’t one to pound the po- healthcare coverage to a suring every student has Carolina’s future. But John Railey’s new book, “The Lost Colony Mur- dium and command the half-million more people: access to a sound basic Gary Pearce was a re- der on the Outer Banks: Seeking Justice for Brenda cameras. He prefers pa- “It makes people healthier. education.” porter and editor at The Joyce Holland,” asks that same question about Hol- tient, persistent persuasion It uses tax dollars wisely In a time of heightened News & Observer, a politi- land. She was a 19-year-old mountain girl from Can- with legislators. and reduces health care attention to racial issues, cal consultant, and an ad- ton, a student at Campbell College, and a make-up The governor reiterated costs for businesses. It the Governor says his vi- viser to Governor Jim Hunt artist working in the summer production of Paul his “mission statement” in makes health care more sion “means fighting dis- (1976-1984 and 1992- Green’s outdoor drama, “The Lost Colony.” an email this month to fair. It reaches rural areas.” crimination at every turn 2000). He blogs about pol- An enthusiastic worker, always on time, Holland supporters: “It means a commitment and promoting policies itics and public policy at failed to show up for work on the even- “I want a North Carolina to solving our climate cri- that make North Carolina a www.NewDayforNC.com. ing of July 1, 1967. Dare County Sheriff Frank Cahoon took charge of the missing person in- vestigation and called for help from the State Bureau of Investigation. After a The Lost Cause and insurrection massive search, her bloated body was sighted in the Albemarle Sound near A violent insurrection en- known as “Lost Cause” being used to justify new infiltration and indoctrina- D.G. Manteo. gulfed the U.S. Capitol just ideology had a purpose. voter suppression laws tion in schools, businesses, Holland’s death and probable murder six months ago. One They wanted people to aimed at preventing future government agencies, and MARTIN shocked the region. Reporters from all United States view the defense of slavery Democratic wins. It is a lie even the military. Conser- over the world flooded onto Manteo’s Capitol Police and the “southern way of that Trumpists will use to vatives who until the past island. officer, Brian life” as a noble cause. They mobilize white right-wing few months proclaimed Railey follows the less than perfect investigation. Sicknick, died, wanted to create justifica- voters in 2022 and 2024. themselves champions of There were a number of promising suspects includ- and other tions for the brutally en- Lies about the Jan. 6 in- free speech and academic ing the boy Brenda Holland dated on the evening and Capitol police forced segregation and surrection began while it freedom have turned on a early morning of June 30/July 1, his roommate, are still heal- subjugation of Black was still under way. Right- dime and are supporting another boy who had recently sexually assaulted ing. Investi- people during the Jim wing figures claimed with- laws banning teaching or Holland, the grandson of an Episcopal minister, a gators are still Crow era. They created and out evidence that the discussing racism in the local dentist, and a Black man who had been accused BEN going through promoted in textbooks and attack was not led by classroom. by a woman seeking revenge. JEALOUS video and so- media a false version of Trump supporters but by The campaign against Railey gives a critical review of the sheriff’s treat- cial media history. And they used that unnamed leftists. Some critical race theory is de- ment of all the suspects, but, in the end, he does not documenting false version of history to claim that it was all signed to scare white par- charge any of them. the attempt to disrupt con- keep a grip on power that planned by Trump’s “deep ents and other Americans A great strength of Railey’s rendition of the story gressional affirmation of they did not deserve to state” enemies in the FBI. into fearing the growing is the suspense he creates for the reader, who will President Joe Biden’s vic- hold. And now we have an presence of Black and not know Railey’s conclusion about the actual killer tory. Just six months ago. Republicans who deny or added layer: the frantic brown people in positions until the very end. But many Republican downplay the insurrection- campaign against “critical of influence and power. It He puts his readers in the shoes of Sheriff Cahoon leaders are already trying ists’ attempt to overturn race theory.” The manufac- is designed to inflame as he does his best to crack the case. Then he leads to rewrite the history of the presidential election tured panic about critical fears and provoke fearful them through Railey’s research and the basis for his that day and what led up to are creating their own Lost race theory demonstrates people into action to “pro- persuasive conclusion about the real killer’s identity. it. Cause ideology. They are why right-wing funders tect” themselves and their The charm of the book goes beyond the author’s Some are downplaying trying to portray Stop the spent billions of dollars loved ones. It is designed story-telling gifts. He takes readers back to the 1960s the seriousness of the at- Steal activists and insurrec- over the past few decades to bury our understanding on the Outer Banks and the town of Manteo, lovely tack on Congress. They tionists as patriots pursu- building an infrastructure of history in an effort to and complicated, with its fishing and seafaring tra- portray the invasion as a ing a noble cause—the of political and media net- control the future. Its per- ditions. The history and relics of unsuccessful set- tourist outing. Some far- defense of “election inte- works. Think tanks, media petrators are playing with tlement in the late 1500s and today’s production of right activists are trying to grity” and the “purity of outlets, political organiza- fire. “The Lost Colony” enrich this complex setting. shift blame away from the the ballot box.” tions, religious-right We cannot successfully Railey gives bit parts to some famous people living Trump supporters who What we have here is groups, AstroTurf opera- face our future by lying in the town during the time of the murder: Andy were clearly responsible layer upon layer of lies. tions, and Republican pol- about our past, ignoring Griffith, who made his home there, and the late pow- for inciting and carrying Trump’s claim that his iticians have all swung into the realities of the present, erful state legislative leader, Marc Basnight, who out the attack. victory was stolen by Black action, sounding alarms or outlawing the truth. Our grew up and lived in Manteo. The people spreading and brown voters in cor- about the supposedly dire path forward must be as a Railey has promised to write a biography of Grif- lies about the Capitol in- rupt cities was the lie that threat of students, sol- multiracial, multiethnic, re- fith. I wish he would write one about Basnight. surrection are the spiritual fueled insurrectionists’ diers, and employees ligiously diverse demo- Coincidently, Basnight’s sister, Dotty, plays a heirs to the Daughters of rage. It was repeated end- learning to think critically cratic society united by a major role in the book. Rainey writes that when she the Confederacy. They are lessly on right-wing media. about the racism in our shared commitment to the was 35 in 1967, “she had cut her hair into a bob and the ideological descen- It is still repeated by country’s past and our in- principles of equality, fair- dyed it blond again. She was 35 but looked 25. The dants of those who spent Trump and his supporters stitutions. ness, opportunity, and jus- town and the beach were hers.” decades lying to the Amer- to portray President Joe They are recycling the tice for all. Thus, she looked something like Brenda Holland, ican public about slavery Biden and Vice President red scare propaganda used Ben Jealous is president of and that coincidence turns out to be important to and the Civil War. Kamala Harris as illegiti- against Martin Luther King People For the American Railey later on. Promoters of pro-Con- mate. Jr. and other civil rights ac- Way. Ultimately, when Railey shares his conclusion federacy propaganda The stolen-election lie is tivists, warning of Marxist about who killed Holland, he is persuasive. But we will never know if it would have been enough to convince a jury beyond a rea- sonable doubt. What we do know for sure is that Railey, already Keep HBCUs in a permanent light widely admired as an investigative journalist, has The brilliance of HBCUs tended the University of Another African Ameri- internship opportunities written a masterpiece of entertaining non-fiction. is creating a buzz in the Notre Dame and received can scholar, Ta-Nehisi for students. It should serve as a model for any other writer who higher education com- her bachelor’s degree Coates, will also join the The pandemic made our wants to sort out an unsolved crime and write a munity. Some would argue there. Until last week, Ni- Howard faculty. Their road campuses pause over the readable and entertaining book about it. that the notoriety around kole Hannah-Jones was on to HU will be a reminder to past year. It appears now D.G. Martin hosts “North Carolina Bookwatch,” Sun- them is at an all-time high. the verge of joining the many the power and in- that in the coming months, day 3:30 p.m. and Tuesday at 5 p.m. on PBS North If you went to journalism faculty at UNC fluence that our schools they will be back! There Carolina. The program also airs on the North Caro- an HBCU like I Chapel Hill. She had a have in America. It is my will be some modifications lina Channel Tuesday at 8 p.m. and other times. did, the pride treasure trove of honors thinking that more African and it will be up to each you have has and awards at UNC. She re- Americans in higher educa- school to define what been multi- ceived the Young Alumni tion and other fields will those modifications will plied. Award in 2017; the Distin- want to cast their futures be. Follow The Post on social media They are guished Alumna Award in with HBCUs. Students will return to getting kudos 2019 and was inducted The power of publicity the “block” to talk in be- monthly. into the N.C. Media Hall of gave us an inside view at tween classes. They will JAMES Alumni of Fame in 2020. what happens when Black have big stories to tell and EWERS these schools Hannah-Jones had also people test traditional sys- maybe some big laughs, are blazing won the Pulitzer Prize in tems. We come out too. We as alumni must trails and capturing honors 2020 for her work on the stronger and better for it. continue to support them as well as opportunities. 1619 Project. In the coming months with our time, money and Scholars and stars who She said: “I have loved and years, our schools will connections. We can do no @thecharpost The Charlotte graduated from Histori- the University of North be more coveted destina- less. Post cally Black Colleges and Carolina at Chapel Hill tions and not off-road de- HBCUs have been bea- Universities are crossing since I was a child watch- tours. Faculty will see them cons of excellence for The Charlotte Post the academic sands with ing Tar Heels basketball on as their first choice for em- years. By being proactive, distinction. Their journeys television.” These com- ployment. we can have a hand in their are bringing them back full ments came from her as With more distinguished growth for decades to circle to their roots. she resigned her would be HBCU faculty will come come. We take pride in Don’t let the stairs Say it loud. I’m an HBCU tenured position at the more students of all eth- them because of what they grad and proud! University of North Caro- nicities. Recruiting high have done for us. limit your mobility. Many would say that lina at Chapel Hill. caliber students will be- Historically Black Col- HBCU graduates and Afri- She has moved on to a come less difficult. Part- leges and Universities have The AmeriGlide Rave 2 stair lift is the ideal solution for anyone: can Americans as a race more prestigious position. nerships with corporations been steadfast and have have landed many posi- Hannah-Jones is now the are becoming more never wavered from their Who struggles with using the stairs tions at PWIs (Predomi- Knight Chair in Race and frequent. They are seeing mission. That is worried about risking a fall nantly White Institutions). Journalism at Howard Uni- the viability and value of Johnson C. Smith Univer- Who wants to access all of their home Now, if you are Black and versity in Washington, D.C. HBCUs and their graduates. sity graduate James Ewers did not go to an HBCU, you Howard is one of the most Seeking out these alli- lives in New Orleans. Call now to save on a Rave 2 stair lift! want to work at an HBCU. renowned HBCUs in the ances will influence the di- Take for example, Nikole country. It was founded in versity of the workforce 1-888-618-0918 Hannah-Jones who at- 1867. and will also provide more The Charlotte Post PAGE 5A

THURSDAY, JULY22, 2021

CAROLINA PANTHERS Carolina Panthers left tackle Trent Scott started four games last year after signing a free agent deal upon being waived by the Chargers. He’s back to compete for the job in 2021. Training days: Topics worthy of attention at Panthers camp Sam Darnold’s progress, edge rushers and left tackle are bound to be among the subjects of scrutiny By Herbert L. White 28 when the first practice thers, however, believe Darnold is a Darnold is an upgrade over Teddy [email protected] session opens. starting NFL quarterback Bridgewater, who stumbled in game- Training camp is around the corner Among the subjects of with tons of potential that winning situations in his only season for the Carolina Panthers, and so are intense scrutiny are: can be realized in their of- in Charlotte, or more of the same. questions. Sam Darnold’s effective- fense. Vertical weapons After going 5-11 in Matt Rhule’s first ness at quarterback. No doubt he’ll have way D.J. Moore and Robby Anderson each season as coach, the Panthers are still This will be the main more skill-position went over 1,000-yards receiving last in transition, especially at quarterback topic of conversation weapons in Carolina, but year, which made Curtis Samuel ex- and offensive line. The defense is still throughout camp. Darnold to win big in this league, pendable in free agency. one of the NFL’s youngest, and it re- was nothing less than a Darnold D.J. Moore quarterbacks can’t be by- Anderson is playing for a new deal mains to be seen if there’s a franchise riddle in three seasons with standers. and Moore is on the final year of his quarterback on the roster. We’ll start to the Jets, which is appropriate because The good news for everyone is it rookie contract and certainly in line for arrive at some answers starting on July they were terrible as a team. The Pan- won’t take long to find out whether Please see TRAINING DAYS | 6A

CIAA football Coverage returns to the of HBCUs field after a has come a pandemic year long way When The Triangle Tribune was Bowie State’s dominance born in 1998, one of our main goals was to give HBCU sports among season’s themes more coverage in areas that were By Herbert L. White lacking. [email protected] In the spring of CIAA football is back after a pandemic-dri- that year, the CIAA ven hiatus. hosted its annual The league’s July 22 virtual media day general meeting at a kicks off the sport’s return after taking 2020 hotel right across off because of COVID-19 restrictions. Be- the street from our cause every team in the league took the year CURTIS WILSON | THE CHARLOTTE POST office. So, I decided off from games, there’s more anxiety over to attend. After all, Johnson C. Smith coach Kermit Blount, who led the Golden Bulls to a 4-6 record before signing a unknowns heading into the start of fall what better way to BONITTA one-year extension afterwards, has yet to go over .500 with the program. Blount, like other CIAA drills next month, including how much get acquainted with coaches, were forced to sit out the 2020 campaign when league officials opted to cancel the BEST teaching, learning and fitness were lost to the people you’re season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. the pandemic. going to cover, Before practices kick off, here are a few eraging 39.7 points per game in 2019 while national level. right? subjects to ponder: allowing 15.6. If there’s a challenge to BSU’s The league’s best dual-threat quarterback, When I walked into the room Bowie State is still the team to beat. supremacy, it’ll likely be Virginia Union, Ja’Rome Johnson, is back after passing for and told the conference staff why The Bulldogs are accustomed to running which like the Bulldogs, are nationally 1,860 yards and 22 touchdowns in 2019 as I was there, they looked at me like things in the CIAA with the last two cham- ranked, but coach Damon Wilson has put well as rushing for another 996 yards and I was some homeless person off pionships as the league’s top program av- Bowie State in position to make noise on a Please see AFTER LOSING |6A the street begging for a piece of bread. One staffer ran to tell another Following brother led Armour to MLS career one and then another. Finally, I was told I could stay but couldn’t By Ashley Mahoney so I started playing.”, decision, as his parents stress education, eat any of the food. By the time I [email protected] Between the ages of 5-13, Armour always but intends to start taking college courses found a seat in the back in the Adam Armour got into soccer because he played with older competitors, including online soon., corner, I felt the entire room star- wanted to be like his older brother Ethan., Ethan., “I knew [Duke] was a great school aca- ing at me. It was obvious they It led to Armour landing a Major League “I was always playing with him, and play- demically and in terms of soccer, so I com- weren’t used to any media cover- Soccer contract at age 18 and the Cary na- ing with the older kids,” Armour said. “He mitted there,” Armour said. “I was excited, ing the event. tive is the youngest player – and first Black stepped away for a couple years to play but I always had the dream to play profes- Many HBCUs during that time athlete – to sign with Charlotte FC on a two- other sports like football, basketball, but sionally.” played second and third fiddle to year deal with one-year option., soccer was my sport. I never really played Armour received U.S. Youth National predominately white confer- “I really got into the game because of my any other sport. My brother got me into it, Team call ups as a junior and senior in high ences, both by mainstream media older brother. He’s a year and a half older,” and I kind of just fell in love with it.”, school, including the 2019 FIFA U-17 World and sports journalists. Armour said. “Growing up I really always Ethan attends North Carolina and Adam Cup in Brazil and Concacaf U-17 Champi- The prestigious gigs were the wanted to be like him and do stuff that he committed as a high school sophomore to onship (he has 19 USYNT caps). That drew power Division I conferences, the play at Duke but opted to pursue a profes- the attention European and MLS clubs. After was doing. He started playing from a young NBA and NFL. ,Too many of the age, and of course I wanted to follow him, sional career now. He said it was a difficult Please see FOLLOWING |6A journalists covering HBCU sports saw it as just a steppingstone to a promotion on another beat. And Mallard Creek grad Cunningham stoked for Olympic Games the reporters who actually en- By Ashley Mahoney challenge.,, working with Johnson her sophomore year joyed covering HBCUs and [email protected] “The hardest part about traveling is hon- at North Carolina State, and he continued to weren’t looking to go anywhere Gabriele Cunningham is ready for the estly the packing,” Cunningham said with coach her as she made the transition to pro- else were viewed as second class. Olympics., a laugh. “I have my parents kind of help me fessional athlete., Even more disrespectful was The 23-year-old Mallard Creek High alum- pack. My dad is really good at folding and “I felt going into my professional career, how some journalists didn’t even nus will compete in the 100- making sure everything fits into the suit- that he was the best person to coach me,” bother to learn about the confer- meter hurdles at the case, so I always have him help me because Cunningham said. “I had seen some success ences or their history. I can’t tell rescheduled Summer I am a person who overpacks. If you tell me in some of my events [with him as my you the number of times I sat at a Olympics Games in Tokyo, I’m staying for a week, I will probably pack coach], and really just his mindset toward table or in a press box next to a which run July 23 through for three.”, things and his attention to detail makes him reporter who tried to pump me Aug. 8. The women’s 100- Packing is a welcome hurdle after last a great coach. Those were some of the for information so he could write meter hurdles final is sched- year. The road to the Olympics has been things I needed in order to get better as an his story. uled for Aug. 2 at 11:50 a.m. rocky, with the COVID-19 pandemic push- athlete. He is really good at having you But HBCU sports information Cunningham in Tokyo (10:50 p.m. on Aug. ing the Games back from 2020. Cunning- mentally and physically prepared. He’s departments didn’t make it easy 1 in Charlotte). She leaves for ham continued to train, competing in 10 been there in those moments so he knows either back then – especially on Japan on July 24, and the community held meets and working with coach Allen John- how to coach you through them and tell the Division II level. I had no idea a surprise sendoff at Mallard Creek over the son, who won gold in the 110-meter hurdles you exactly how to handle it.”, record keeping was so bad at weekend to wish her luck. Now comes the in the 1996 Games in Atlanta. She began Please see CUNNINGHAM | 6A Please see COVERAGE | 6A 6A SPORTS | The Charlotte Post Thursday, July 22, 2021

After losing football to pandemic, CIAA on schedule to return Continued from page 5A the year, transferring to Fort Valley 12 scores. State after his freshman season. To Fayetteville State aims to stay on top make the transition easier, Blount in- in the Southern Division. vested in recruiting offensive line help. Logic says Fayetteville State is the Quarterback may be a larger prob- prohibitive favorite, based on the Bron- lem. Three-year starter Antonio Wallace cos’ stockpile of talent expected to re- battled concussion symptoms in 2019 turn. Coach Richard Hayes is one of the and the depth behind him under- CIAA’s best, and his defense has been achieved. With a nine-game schedule, excellent, especially against division the Golden Bulls probably need to go foes. over .500 in order to keep Blount on the If there’s an unknown, it’s the of- job. fense, which lost running back Stevie Stepping up to Livingstone. Green to graduation, Richard Latimer That would be Sean Gilbert, a former (West Mecklenburg High) to the trans- NFL defensive tackle who played with fer portal and coordinator Maurice the Carolina Panthers, Los Angeles Flowers, now head coach at Albany Rams, Washington Football Team and State. Oakland (now Las Vegas) Raiders. A for- Kermit Blount’s final stand. mer assistant coach at South Mecklen- The Johnson C. Smith coach has one burg and West Charlotte high schools, last chance to prove he can make the this is Gilbert’s first head coach job at Golden Bulls respectable after going 4- any level, and he has a tall task of 6 in 2019. That lift will be a bit heavier pulling Livingstone out of the Southern with 1,000-yard running back Emanuel Division basement. Wilson, the CIAA’s offensive rookie of Coverage of Black college sports finally picks up steam CHARLOTTE FC Continued from page 5A timers” continued to serve an HBCU mar- some institutions until I asked a couple of ket thirsty for attention and respect. The Charlotte FC defender Adam Armour, 18, is the youngest player signed by the MLS expansion sports information directors to help me arrival of Boxtorow.com and HBCU Game- team. with a series I wanted to write. They were day only served to upgrade the HBCU land- all gung-ho at first to give their school scape. some media coverage until I started asking Then, click! Mainstream media, desper- Following brother led Adam for research material. Then they stopped ate to stop the financial drain, finally saw returning my calls. the light: HBCU fans tailgate. HBCU fans After a while, I understood the limita- travel. HBCU fans spend money. And let’s Armour to MLS, Charlotte FC tions HBCU SIDs had to work with, but I did not even get started on the bands! not – and never will – understand why Now, HBCUs have become a smorgas- Continued from page 5A FC signing with MLS experi- pendence rotate between someone would throw out old media bord for sports journalists. More games are de-committing from Duke, ence. He and Armour have three and four in the back, guides, and then tell you they can’t find being televised or streamed than ever be- Armour went to Germany’s several months to develop with Roberts at center back the information you need. fore, and corporate America is finally wak- second-division side FC chemistry leading up to and Dean at left back. If But the tide started to change with the ing up in the sponsorship department. Nurnberg in 2 Bundesliga. Charlotte FC’s inaugural they play three in the back, beginning of the Great Recession in 2007 Covering HBCU sports is so much fun. It He signed with FC Nurnberg season in 2022., Armour would play left and the internet steadily gaining in popu- makes putting up with sensitive coaches in July 2020 after playing “It’s exciting to have Adam wing, and left back if Jef- larity. ,Newspapers were forced to slash who can’t take criticism (especially from a on an academy contract for there and to be able to play fries opts for four., jobs, and sports journalism, which was woman), alumni who think Black media North Carolina FC in USL with him this year and see “Adam is a really good seen as untouchable, became part of the should NEVER say anything negative about Championship after playing what kind of player he is, young player that we are ex- casualties. Soon the demand far exceeded their school and even the occasional dis- in the NCFC youth system see what kind of person he cited to have in,” Jeffries the supply of jobs for those major confer- respect by the institutions we cover, all and its USL League Two is,” Bronico said. “The more said. “He is a left-sided at- ences. worth it. side. Armour’s time in Ger- you play with somebody, tacking guy, very clever In the meantime, veteran sports journal- And, thankfully, I can eat at the table many fell under the cloud the better chemistry you passer [with] really good ists like Lut Williams (Black College Sports now. of the COVID-19 pandemic, build. It’s exciting to get a ideas in the final third. It Page), Eric Moore (onnidan.com), John Dell Bonitta Best is sports editor at The Trian- but he made the most of the chance to play with him six, will be interesting to see (The Winston-Salem Journal), Herbert gle Tribune in Durham. experience., seven months before we how he integrates once we White (The Charlotte Post) and other “old- “Even if we couldn’t play start with Charlotte FC. I’m get him on the field more matches, I made sure every looking forward to the time fully.”, day in training I was learn- we have together.”, Armour has played both ing everything I could,” he Said Armour: “We’re mak- left back and on the wing. Training days: Topics worth a said. “Off the field I was ing sure we’re staying sharp Growing up he played up learning everything I could, this season, making sure we top as a forward, but it was I was talking to the guys are doing what we can for left back that landed him an look as Panthers camp opens that were experienced and the team for the Independ- opportunity with the stuff, so I still got the most ence when we’re playing USYNT., Continued from page 5A his own last season as a spot starter. out of it. I feel like it was a right now, but definitely “One day, my coach told an extension. Their futures are tied at least Rookie class picture. big contributor to me gain- preparing ourselves for next me the national team in part to Darnold’s handling of the offense Top draft pick Jaycee Horn drew raves in ing maturity on and off the year. We’re definitely very wanted to see me at left offseason camps for his competitive na- and ability to get the ball to them. To- field.”, excited about that. back,” Armour said. “I gether, Moore and Anderson give Carolina ture and physical approach to playing cor- Armour, who is on loan Independence head coach played there in the show- home run threats on the outside, so there’s nerback, so his progression will likely lead with USL Championship and general manager Mike case, and I actually really no reason for Darnold not to succeed as a to a starting spot when the regular season side Charlotte Independ- Jeffries expects Armour to enjoyed it. It allowed me to passer. kicks off. ence leading up to Charlotte get up to speed quickly with work on the defensive part Brian Burns and Hasson Reddick ready to The offensive rookie draft pick worth FC’s inaugural season, joins the Independence due to his of my game. I am a player wreak havoc as edge rushers. keeping an eye on might be Chuba Hub- midfielder Brandt Bronico athleticism and good tech- that can go forward and can bard, an electrifying running back who Reddick, who was signed as a free agent on loan to the second-divi- nical abilities., also defend, and I’ve been during the offseason, had his best cam- broke into the national consciousness with sion club. Bronico, a Char- Defenders Christian Dean making sure that I’m getting paign in 2020 with Arizona, racking up his a 2,000-yard rushing season at Oklahoma lotte 49ers alumnus and and Hugh Roberts are also as close as possible to per- first double-digit sack season. Meanwhile, State in 2019. Hubbard’s production slid fellow North Carolinian, is helping Armour along with fecting both sides of my Burns was one sack away from his first in 2020, which is why he was available in the only current Charlotte his development. The Inde- game in that aspect.” double-digit sack season. If these two can the fourth round, but he’s likely to get continue the upward trajectory, Carolina’s every opportunity to back up Christian Mc- pass rush can be really good. Caffrey and get some valuable touches as Make a decision (or not) at left tackle. well. There’s a logjam of contenders, starting Roster surprises. Marveaux extends career with Jacks with Cameron Erving, a journeyman who Undrafted free agents usually don’t draw By Ashley Mahoney lotte’s 3-2 loss to New York Red Bulls II the is on his fourth team in six seasons. The a lot of attention, but guard David Moore [email protected] game before. Charlotte secured their first Panthers believe a little consistency and has in preseason workouts. The Grambling Sylvain Marveaux doesn’t play like he is point after three consecutive losses., good health are what Erving needs to be State alum fell into Carolina’s lap after the nearing the end of his soccer career., Marveaux’s experience at higher levels is the answer, but don’t underestimate Trent draft and if training camp goes anything The French midfielder spent most of his apparent to those on the sidelines and his Scott, who was brought in on waivers last like minicamps, Moore will be a strong can- career in top-flight European football, with teammates. year from the Chargers and more than held didate to make the squad. clubs like Newcastle United in the English “He elevated everyone’s game up an- Premier League and FC Lorient in Ligue 1, other notch,” defender Hugh Roberts said. France’s first division along with 224 pro- “He came through two weeks ago with a Cunningham stoked for Tokyo Games fessional caps and 43 goals. Understand- touch of class. Yes, he might be on the Continued from page 5A Olympics, lost her appeal against a five- ing the clock is ticking on his professional back end of his career, but his level is still Cunningham began to consider running year ban for violating anti-doping rules. career, Marveaux, 35, told agent Jerome high, still phenomenal. He sees the game professionally while attending Mallard She was charged with tampering by the Meary he wanted to play in the United on a different level. He could have scored Creek. When she began competing at New Athletics Integrity Unit, which said she fal- States, which led to the Charlotte Inde- at least twice today. It’s honestly what we Balance Nationals and receiving calls from sified medical forms with the intent to de- pendence., needed.”, coaches her junior and senior high school ceive anti-doping officials when she “When I was in Lorient, I didn’t play a lot While Marveaux is new to the squad, he seasons she knew choosing a college missed a test in January. McNeal, who was this season and I thought, ‘the end of my provides veteran experience. Charlotte has would play a key role in her Olympic recovering from an abortion, changed the career is coming,’” Marveaux said. “I would a number of new faces this season, many dreams., date on the forms, because she thought the like to be able to play [in the United States] of whom are fairly young., “Any athlete who does an Olympic sport, doctor wrote the wrong date. The Court of and finish my career here. I talked with my “A lot of our veteran guys haven’t really their goal is to make the Olympic team and Arbitration for Sport upheld the ruling., agent and told him, ‘if you get something, been playing all season,” Roberts said. then of course to medal,” Cunningham McNeal still participated in the trials and talk to me about it.’”, “Yes, we have been getting results, but this said., ran a qualifying time. Cunningham, who Marveaux did not know anything about is still a young team. It’s really just been Cunningham’s experience at last was invited for processing immediately Charlotte, but when he asked around, he me, Clay [Dimick, defender] and Jake [Are- month’s Olympic Trials in Oregon came after the trials, said she has not had a heard it was a great place to live., man, midfielder], Brandon [Miller, goal- with a mix of emotions. She ran consecu- chance to speak with her., Independence head coach and general keeper] too. It’s been a bunch of new faces. tive personal bests: 12.67 seconds in the Everything changed on July 2 when Cun- manager Mike Jeffries worked with Meary For [Marveaux] to come through composed first round, 12.61 in the second and 12.53 ningham received the call promoting her on other players, including Independence [and] creating chances, we needed that. I in the final, but Christina Clemons edged to the Olympics., defender Thomas de Villardi, so signing give him a lot of kudos. He had a great her out for the third spot. Keni Harrison “I was at practice, and I was just about to Marveaux was a no-brainer., game tonight.”, finished first in 12.47 seconds, followed leave to go right in my first European meet “He is a wonderful person in terms of the Marveaux primarily plays the No. 10, an by Brianna McNeal at 12.51 seconds., over in Hungary,” she said. “I actually non-soccer side and obviously a really attacking playmaker, typically an attacking “Of course I was disappointed, because I missed [the call] the first time, because I quality player,” Jeffries said. “You could midfielder. Jeffries said Marveaux could didn’t know what was going to happen, but was practicing.”, see some of the level and vision he has. have seen more time against Phoenix, but I was also proud of myself, because I came Cunningham’s coach told her to call We’re looking forward to getting him fully he intends to work him into the group each round and gave it my best,” Cunning- back, which she protested because they integrated into the group. It’s been a short slowly. A word everyone seems to use to ham said. “I was able to come out with were in the middle of practice and that was period, so he’s not quite up to match fit- describe Marveaux’s presence on the ball three PRs in a row. I went out there and what she wanted to focus on., ness., You saw glimpses of what he is ca- is “composed,” which the Independence gave it my all and that everything that we “At that point, I had to tell my parents pable of.”, will benefit from down the stretch., had done in training had paid off. No mat- and all the people I know who have been Marveaux earned his first start for the In- “I like to be someone my teammates can ter what the decision was going to be I was waiting to see what was going to happen,” dependence in their 1-all draw earlier this rely on and make a difference with my just going to keep training and keep trying Cunningham said. “I took a moment away month against Phoenix Rising and earned passing,” he said. “I like to be in the No. 10 to get better preparing for the meets to from practice to kind of enjoy that mo- an assist on striker Irvin Parra’s goal in the role. I think I might be 50-60% [match fit]. come.”, ment and then I got right back to it, so that second minute. He also played all of the I have a lot more I can do.”, McNeal, who won gold at the 2016 Rio I could continue training and preparing.” first half, 26 minutes more than in Char-