The hurts just keep coming for the battered Panthers with losing streak up to five games
THE VOICE OF THE BLACK COMMUNITY SINCE 1906 TThhee CChhaarrlloottttee PPoosstt WEEK OF NOVEMBER 19, 2020 VOLUME 47, NUMBER 11 WWW.THECHARLOTTEPOST.COM $1.50 Push for housing access equality By Herbert L. White [email protected] Advocates for the formerly incar- cerated want Charlotte’s fair hous- ing ordinance to include guarantees for people with crim- inal records. The Reentry Housing Alliance will hold a press conference Tues- day to urge Charlotte City Council to drop barriers to people with records to when it considers changes to its fair housing policy. The most efficient path, they argue, is to create a local amend- ment to the state Fair Housing Or- dinance that is then governed locally. Charlotte, the only jurisdiction in North Carolina working on reentry housing justice. An estimated 55,000 people with criminal records – 8% of the city’s adults – GERRY BROOME | THE ASSOCIATED PRESS could be impacted by a change in the ordinance. Lt. Gov.-elect Mark Robinson, the first Black North Carolinian elected to the post, campaigned on a right-wing platform that ran counter to the political “As citizens, it is time we all get mainstream of the state's African American voters. past being OK with incremental change,” the alliance said in a statement. “The opportunity to create true equity in rental housing ‘I don’t back up from them:’ is within reach. However, with competing interests vying for the City Council’s favor in lobbying the General Assembly, this opportu- nity to enact equity-focused hous- Lt. Gov-elect divides, wins ing reform is in danger of being shouted down.” Mark Robinson makes history with statewide campaign on right wing principles The RHA will petition the council to enact a local amendment to the By Kristen Johnson and his booming voice resonates as he Post. Fair Housing Ordinance that talked about goals, which include more As a Black Republican who openly em- FOR THE CHARLOTTE POST would: funding for law enforcement and sup- braces controversial right-wing ideo- • Defer any inquiry into criminal Mark Robinson stood in front of an porting school choice. logies, Robinson belongs to the small convictions of applicants and their American flag the night of Nov. 3 to dis- “We’re happy to make history and minority of African American neoconser- household members until after the cuss his historic win as North Carolina’s we’re happy to be making it for the Re- vatives in the age of President Donald applicant is qualified. first Black lieutenant governor-elect with publican Party,” Robinson told WFMY- Trump who believe making American • Allow applicants to provide ev- media. TV. “Very first things I want to take on is great again doesn’t necessarily mean ad- idence of rehabilitation and/or The Republican first-time candidate increased care of our veterans in our dressing systemic issues that divide the other mitigating factors. and former furniture worker from state, supporting law enforcement in country. • Guarantee the right of a rental Greensboro won 51% of the vote against this state, and working with the state "The North Carolina Republican Party applicant to file a complaint if dis- Democratic challenger state Rep. Yvonne school board to try to shore up our is excited that Mark Robinson won the qualified based on their criminal Lewis Holley with support from the state schools.” election for Lieutenant Governor,” history. GOP and a hefty base of social media fol- Robinson’s campaign did not respond NCGOP Press Secretary Tim Wigginton • Name or create an administer- lowers. Robinson is physically imposing, to multiple interview requests by The Please see LT. GOV-ELECT | 2A ing body to investigate and enforce all renter complaints. • Direct landlords to post and/or list in writing a description of cir- cumstances that may be consid- ered by the landlord as basis for Local nonprofits refusal to rent. earn $25K in Duke Executive Energy grants order lowers
By Herbert L. White cap on indoor [email protected] Five Charlotte nonprofits are recipients of Duke gatherings Energy grants to organizations committed to social justice and racial equity in North Carolina. By Ashley Mahoney The utility company gave $1 million in grants [email protected] through the Duke Energy Foundation to 40 non- HANNA WONDMAGEGN | UNC MEDIA HUB profits in $25,000 gifts. North Carolina will remain in Earlier this year, the company committed to an an- Nicholas Clark, 31, poses for a portrait in his car in Durham on Oct. 30. By day, Clark Phase 3 during Thanksgiving, with nual social justice and racial equity grant cycle for runs his graphic design business, Cultured Brand, and works at a body shop. By night, a few changes. at least three years in North Carolina. The award is he helps out with Durhammeetz events, working to foster a positive community through Gov. Roy Cooper an- nounced Executive in addition to the more than $1 million the company a general love of cars. provided in support of racial equity across all juris- Order No. 176, which dictions in August. The $1 million in grants and ex- keeps the state in panded internal programs build upon previous Underground car culture is Phase 3 of reopening, efforts to support and encourage diversity, equity but also reduces in- and inclusion in the company and communities it door mass gatherings serves. from 25 people to 10 Cooper ‘like an escape from reality’ people for indoor so- “Racial equity sits at the core of our organization's cial events and indoor in-home purpose,” said Jason Terrell, executive director of By Drew Wayland custom painted to resemble a can Profound Gentlemen, one of the Charlotte non- gatherings. Families of 10 people UNC MEDIA HUB of Arizona Green Tea, in circles or more who live together are not profits. “We know that it takes a collective effort to DURHAM – The first car pulls into around the front left wheel, spin- create sustainable systemic change in the education subject to the order, which goes the pit, and white smoke fills the ning on a dime and leaving hot into effect on Nov. 13 at 5 p.m. and profession; we are grateful for the Duke Energy air within seconds. The crowd, black skids on the cold pavement. Foundation’s support as we build an education sys- runs through Dec. 4 at 5 p.m. Vio- about 60 people bundled up in He shifts the car into neutral, picks lating the directive is punishable as tem that our students and educators deserve.” winter coats and gloves, hold a new pivot point, and this time In addition to Profound Gentlemen, the other Char- a Class 2 misdemeanor. phones above their heads in hopes drifts the car in reverse. The rear “This reduction in our indoor lotte nonprofits to earn grants are Right Moves for they’ll capture the action on cam- of the car comes so close to the Youth, Greater Steps Scholars, NC Outward Bound gathering limit aims to slow the era. All they can see of the bright crowd they could make out the spread and bring down our School, and Center for Community Transitions, teal Lexus are its head and tail letters on his glowing neon license which aids the formerly incarcerated adjust to their numbers,” Cooper said. “It also lights, but the screeching of the plate, if any of them could read Ja- sends a serious signal to families, return to the community. tires and the scent of burning panese. “We all have a role and responsibility in advancing friends and neighbors across our rubber are unmistakable. Two more cars pull into the pit, state. Success in slowing the justice and equity,” Duke Energy North Carolina The driver, Nicholas Clark, is put- the makeshift arena set up in a cul- Please see DUKE | 2A ting on a show. He swings his car, Please see UNDERGROUND | 4A Please see EXECUTIVE | 2A INSIDE Please Digital edition: STAY IN TOUCH Sports 7A Snapchat: thecharpost www.thecharlottepostnewspaper.com Recycle Life 1B Twitter: @thecharpost A&E 6B To subscribe: (704) 376-0496 or online Facebook: The Charlotte Post Classified 5B http://tcppc.com/Subscribe Instagram: @thecharlottepost #PaperThursday 2A NEWS | The Charlotte Post Thursday, November 19, 2020 Lt. Gov.-elect Mark Robinson Executive order Continued from page 1A race that’s too close to call. more than 15% of the Black viral video recorded at a lowers cap on indoor told The Post in an email. Still, Black conservatives vote since Richard Nixon in Greensboro City Council “Lieutenant Governor-Elect like Danielle Robinson be- 1960. meeting of him defending Robinson will bring strong lieve African Americans “The real pivot point was his right to bear arms. He gatherings in NC conservative leadership support the Democratic in the 1972 presidential has also been active on campaign,” said UNC Char- that North Carolina desper- Party in error. Robinson Facebook and posted neg- Continued from page 1A ately needs, and we cannot sees the Republican Party lotte political science pro- ative comments about the wait to see what great as a better option and fessor Eric Heberlig. Obama family, calling spread will help our businesses.” things he will accomplish leads North Carolina’s “Richard Nixon developed former first lady Michelle North Carolina entered Phase 3 on Oct. 2, and a while in office." “Blexit,” or Black exit, ini- what was called the South- Obama “a man” and accus- number of components from Executive Order No. 169, As the country confronts tiative to think “more ern Strategy. They found ing former President Ba- which Copper signed on Sept. 30, remain in place. The a racial reckoning with pro- freely” and support the issues that would tap into rack Obama of turning the mass gathering limit is still 50 people in outdoor set- tests amid a deadly pan- GOP. racial resentment without country into a “socialist tings. Multiple groups may gather in a given outdoor demic that has decimated “It’s very disheartening explicitly making racial ap- hell hole.” space—such as a park, beach or trail—but each individ- the economy, Black voters to see that the moment you peals, so they talked about Robinson also made ual group may not exceed 50 people. First Amendment were considered a crucial do not fit, for Black people, school busing, they talked comments claiming homo- activities are exempt from the 10-person indoor mass demographic Democrats another box they turn on about crime in cities, they sexuality is “the end of civ- gatherings limit, such as religious gatherings, weddings hoped would help ignite a you,” said Danielle Robin- talked about welfare ilization as we know it” and and funeral services. Also exempt are gatherings for blue wave across the coun- son, a board member of queens. They’re issues that referred to Black Demo- work or government services. try. Black conservatives, on the North Carolina Black trigger many racial stereo- crats as “slaves.” The following are also exempt but must operate under the other hand, stand on Conservative Voices coali- types.” “I don’t back up from capacity limits stated in previously established executive the fringes of the African tion. She is not related to The Southern Strategy them one bit,” he told orders: fitness and exercise facilities, restaurants, per- American political and so- Mark Robinson. “And it al- perfected by Nixon and WRAL. sonal care businesses, museums and aquariums, movie cial mainstream, confirm- most feels like they would crafted in 1964 by Repub- Former U.S. Rep. Eva theaters, hotels, conference centers and reception ven- ing the narrative that side with what has affec- lican presidential con- Clayton, the first Black ues. Airports, bus and train stations and stops, medical African Americans are not tionately become a white tender Barry Goldwater women elected to Con- facilities, libraries, shopping centers and malls can op- a monolith. ally over their own Black attracted white voters by gress from North Carolina, erate as normal. While Black Republicans brothers and sisters who appealing to racial and so- isn’t impressed by Robin- The state is reducing indoor mass gatherings in the in- have always been active in simply believe that success cial attitudes that can be son’s win as a significant terest of public health because the combination of colder state and local politics, the for our people can come found in today’s GOP. political event. weather and the holidays will bring more people inside. majority of African Ameri- from better policies which “It’s hard to both mobi- “Just being black isn’t Traditionally, more people who do not live together are cans vote for Democratic right now are on the Re- lize whites based on racial sufficient for me to rejoice around each other for extended periods of time during candidates like Gov. Roy publican platform.” resentment and appeal to in that,” said Clayton, a the holidays. Cooler temperatures often result in gath- Cooper, Attorney General Those policies include re- the targets of racial resent- Johnson C. Smith Univer- ering in enclosed settings, which leads to increased risk Josh Stein, and down-ballot ligious freedom, fiscal re- ment at the same time,” sity graduate who served of transmitting and contracting COVID-19. contenders who favor sponsibility, and school said Heberlig. “The way Re- five terms in Congress. “I Overwhelming the state’s hospitals is also a concern. Medicaid expansion, edu- choice, an idea that critics publicans have tried to do can’t deny that Mr. Robin- The North Carolina Department of Health and Human cation reforms, and ad- say would strip more state that is mostly through so- son has made a historical Services reported a record 3,119 cases and 1,279 hospi- dressing racial inequality. funding from underper- cial issues like abortion mark, the significance of talizations on Nov. 11, the day after Cooper signed Ex- Robinson has pledged to forming public schools. and homosexuality since that mark is doubtful.” ecutive Order No. 176. As of Nov. 12, the number of work with Cooper, who “We want the best for our many African Americans Clayton, a Democrat, reported cases decreased to 2,893. was re-elected to a second communities, we want to are conservative on those backed Holley, a four-term term. see our families whole, we issues. The challenge is if state lawmaker she consid- About 900,000 of the want to see us upwardly civil rights type issues are ered a stronger candidate state’s 1.5 million Black mobile,” said Danielle Rob- the higher priority and eco- and more equipped with a voters cast ballots early in inson, a Brooklyn native. nomic issues are a higher plan to unite North Caro- the general election, with “Mark Robinson got into priority for African Ameri- linians. Duke Energy grants the majority going to Dem- this with a commitment to can voters, those two are “I looked at her for what ocrats, who make up the values. I think he’s going to more aligned with the she stood for,” Clayton Continued from page 1A majority of registered be great in this position be- Democratic Party.” said. “She wanted to bring president Stephen DeMay said in a statement. voters, according to the cause he’s going to con- University of Florida po- people together, she “Duke Energy is committed to creating equal oppor- North Carolina State Board tinue to fight hard and litical science professor wanted to advance educa- tunities for the communities we serve, and we’re of Elections. While the speak up for those values.” Sharon Wright Austin tion, she wanted to ad- proud to support organizations already leading this presidential race between Black Americans began to agreed. vance employment. She critical work across North Carolina.” Trump and Democratic shift their support to the “Despite their member- also understood that there “We at the Brunswick County NAACP branch are President-elect Joe Biden is Democratic Party in 1936 ship in the Democratic was systemic racism. [Rob- very thankful for the gracious support of the Duke still too close to call, 92% of under the New Deal pol- Party, Black voters have a inson] denies that. He Energy Foundation,” branch president Carl Parker the state’s Black voters icies of President Franklin tendency to think right, doesn't see that he has to said in a statement. “Because all people have color, backed Biden compared to D. Roosevelt. It was ce- but vote left,” she said. work to improve equality.” this type of support and investment from local 6% for Trump. mented during the Civil “They have conservative Robinson doesn't see it partners such as Duke Energy allows us to work to- This year, more Black Rights Movement of the views on some topics be- that way. ward our mission to secure political, educational, candidates – especially 1960s with the election of cause of the influence of “There’s no way that if social and economic equality of rights in order to women – ran for Council of John F. Kennedy and his religion in their lives, but this was a racist nation that eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the State offices and judicial successor, Lyndon they vote for liberal candi- a Black man can be stand- health and well-being of all persons.” seats, including Jessica Johnson and the Repub- dates who have progres- ing here right now as lieu- Duke Energy is also strengthening its internal di- Holmes for labor commis- lican Party has tried, and sive views on social and tenant governor of North versity and inclusion programs to foster greater sioner and Cheri Beasley failed, to win them over racial issues.” Carolina,” he told re- awareness, respect and inclusion. for chief justice of the state since. Before his run for lieuten- porters. “There’s no way.” Supreme Court. Holmes No Republican presiden- ant governor, Robinson Kristen Johnson is an lost; Beasley is in a tight tial candidate has won gained recognition with a Election SOS fellow. 3A NEWS | The Charlotte Post Thursday, November 19, 2020
WHEN ICONIC MEETS INNOVATIVE THE RESULT IS ELECTRIC!
*Preproduction computer generated image shown. Available late 2020. 4A NEWS | The Charlotte Post Thursday, November 19, 2020 TheThe CharlotteCharlotte PostPost Greek, Hebrew guides to differences The Voice of the Black Community How can ancient Greek global warming, and pollu- Greek culture that devel- son as the path to truth Gerald O. Johnson | CEO/PUBLISHER and Hebrew thinking help tion of our water and air. oped especially in Athens and the Hebrews saw di- us understand why our Meanwhile, progressive and the Hebrew culture vine revelation as the path [email protected] friends who support other candidates get accused of that developed in ancient to ultimate truth.” Robert L. Johnson | PUBLISHER/GENERAL MANAGER political candidates see rejecting out-of-hand the Palestine.” These cultural debates things so differently from deeply held religious views Kramer points out how have continued through- [email protected] us? of others about marriage, these different ways of out the centuries and Why are we locked into abortion, and freedom of searching for the truth still today’s differences can, in Herbert L. White | EDITOR IN CHIEF such differ- religion. guide and undergird our part, be seen as the mod- [email protected] ent posi- Have we separated our- different approaches. ern expression of those tions? selves into two groups? He explains: “The Greeks long-existing tensions be- Published weekly by The Charlotte Post Publishing Company It is danger- One that holds out science developed the philosophi- tween the Greek and He- Inc., 5118 Princess Street, Charlotte, NC 28269 (USPS #965500). ous for as the path to knowledge cal understanding of rea- brew traditions in Western Subscription is $65 per year. Periodicals postage paid at Char- anyone to try and guidance for govern- son, stressed the rational intellectual life. lotte, NC. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Charlotte to explain mental policy and action? pursuit of knowledge, and Kramer reminds us, ho- Post, PO Box 30144, Charlotte, NC 28230 why people Or another that asserts we (in such thinkers as Aris- wever, that “nothing in his- support op- D.G. must look to some higher totle) emphasized the ob- tory ever stays exactly the posing politi- MARTIN authority to be the guide servation or study of same; of course, the debate cal figures or for public decisions about nature. Although the between what we might different po- morality and public policy? Greeks talked about the call ‘reason’ and ‘rev- Underground car litical parties or programs. UNC Chapel Hill’s Lloyd gods and a higher meta- elation’ took new forms as We sometimes rush to Kramer, director of Caro- physical realm, they were society, science, and cul- describe our opponents in lina Public Humanities and fascinated by the human ture evolved in the late culture, structure strong, condemning and a professor who special- body and the material nineteenth century.” disrespectful ways. izes in the history of differ- world. Americans on both sides Continued from page 1A The temptation is strong ent ideas throughout the “The Hebrews, in con- of today’s cultural divide de-sac in Durham’s warehouse district. It’s past to say simply that they are ages, points out that our trast, developed the idea of are influenced by both of midnight, and everyone in attendance found their too stupid or too unin- division into these two monotheism, stressed the these lasting traditions. But way here by word of mouth. The two cars, a low- formed to reach the right groups is not something unique human ability to few, if any of us, are pure riding Honda and a Subaru with a five-foot long conclusions . new. communicate with God, Greek or pure Hebrew. spoiler, take turns shooting flames out of their On the one hand, we say In an outline that accom- and (in such thinkers as the Nevertheless, applying the exhaust pipes. The noise is like a flurry of gunfire, they are too unthinking, panies his “The Great prophets) emphasized Greek and Hebrew differ- and what happens next is predictable. too old, too white, too con- Courses” lectures on “Eu- God’s role in human his- ent models to modern Casually, as if pulling into his own driveway, a servative, or on the other ropean Thought and Cul- tory. American political differ- police officer rolls into the pit. He doesn’t even hand, too diverse, too ture in the 20th Century,” “Although the Hebrews ences has helped me put flash his lights, as if the officer knows that the young, or too smug about he writes that these kinds wrote about political some of our different ap- sight of his vehicle will begin a process that their university educa- of differences “expressed events and real people act- proaches in perspective. happens nearly every Friday night in Durham. tions. the tension between the ing in the world, they gave D.G. Martin hosts “North The teenagers in the crowd make a run for it, Candidates who support two oldest strands of great attention to spiritual Carolina Bookwatch,” Sun- sprinting down the service road back to their nationalistic or conserva- thought in the Western cul- issues and to divine day 3:30 p.m. and Tuesday cars, but the older, more experienced drivers take tive positions get accused tural tradition. Historians powers or ethical injunc- at 5 p.m. on UNC-TV. The their time, pack up their things, and wait for of ignoring science and re- have often described West- tions. program also airs on the further instructions. In a few minutes there will jecting wholesale the con- ern civilization as a com- “To summarize these North Carolina Channel be a call or a text from one person or another, and clusions of scientists about plex fusion of two ancient distinctions in very broad Tuesday at 8 p.m. the new location will be set, maybe at the Big Lots the causes of pandemics, cultural traditions: the terms, the Greeks saw rea- on N.C. 55. The officer might follow them, or he might decide that he has better things to do. This is how Friday nights go for Durhammeetz, Help for America after Trump and its members never get tired of it. “What we do is provide structure and organiza- Trump will be remem- cause havoc and heart- both Arizona and Penn- they do not want to lose tion for a culture that usually doesn’t have a bered for mismanaging ache. You are rigged to tell sylvania. the power in their home whole lot of that,” says Dakota “SD” Tilley, the co- America and for upholding lies and plant seeds of Last Sunday, Mr. T finally states. Before we forget, he founder of Durhammeetz, one of the most active racism doubt every day. acknowledged that Biden received over 70 million car meets in North Carolina. “We have a really President Trump’s time Voter fraud, deceased won, but said that the elec- votes. good system of communication that helps keep in the White people voting, and faulty tion was rigged. Multiple This country, our Amer- us under the radar.” House is mail-in ballot procedures Republican and election of- ica, is in desperate need of The Triangle has had a thriving car culture for over. His ten- were comments that came ficials said the election was a physical and emotional decades, but before 2017, car meets in Raleigh ure there was from many Republicans. not rigged. There was no healing. We have been ren- and Durham were notorious for being disorgan- chaotic, and Fox News commentator evidence of voter fraud or dered mute by COVID-19 ized and sometimes dangerous events. Tilley crisis filled. Tucker Carlson had to impropriety. and psychological scarring. founded Durhammeetz as an alternative to pro- Like a bal- make an apology regarding The election system There are over 11 million mote a supportive, positive-minded community loon, he was a deceased person who al- worked overtime to ensure cases in the US and over that rejects violence and embraces collaboration. just full of legedly cast a ballot in the a safe and secure election. 246,000 people have “At the Raleigh meets and at the old Durham hot air. He JAMES election. This system worked before passed away. meets, sometimes you’d see guys get hot heads may not go EWERS James Blalock of Coving- and it worked this time The president does not about something and start arguing,” he says. home, but he ton, Georgia voted on Nov. too. care. He only cares about “Then all their boys have to back them up, you is going to 3, according to Mr. T’s Mr. Trump is seen in the himself. This narrative has know, and things get out of hand real fast. I don’t have to leave the White team and later Tucker Carl- eyes of many as holding up been in play since he took like seeing guns pulled on somebody at an event House. son. Mr. Blalock, a former progress. He is withhold- office. Yet at some point he that’s just supposed to be for fun.” The election was held on postal carrier passed away ing valuable information will come to the painful Although these meets draw law enforcement Nov. 3 and was one of the in 2006. from the Biden camp re- conclusion that he has presence on a frequent basis, efforts to reach the most contentious in United However, it was Mr. Bla- garding national security. come to the end of his Durham Police Department for comment were States history. Here we are lock’s widow that cast the The General Services Ad- road. It is a dead end. He is unsuccessful. weeks later counting votes ballot. Newton County, ministration has not yet finished and it will be final Tilley manages Durhammeetz with the help of and certifying states’ elec- Georgia officials said: “Her signed off on the formal in the next few months. some of its long-time members, including Nich- toral vote counts. voter registration was transition documents. He will be leaving the olas Clark, the driver of the Arizona Tea car. Usually, this post-elec- signed as Mrs. James E. Bla- Former president Barack White House in January Clark, 31, works at a bodyshop in Durham and tion ritual would go unno- lock, Jr. and that is exactly Obama recently assailed and America will breathe a runs his own graphic design business, the name ticed and taken for how she voted in the No- both Trump and the Re- sigh of relief. Sanity and of which is decaled onto dozens of cars at every granted. As we know, this vember 3rd general elec- publicans on the CBS pro- ethical behavior are just meet. election was different. tion.” gram “60 Minutes” for around the corner. “I’m Nick,” he introduces himself, “a.k.a. Cul- Why? It was because we A lawsuit filed by the doing so. He said he was Hold on America. It is tured Brand.” have a political thief as president’s lawyers was re- not surprised at Trump, coming. Keeping the meets safe and positive is a weekly commander in-chief. He cently dropped in Arizona. but the Republican Party James Ewers is a Johnson chore, but the core group of drivers leads by ex- started months ago hurling Lawyers representing him knows better. C. Smith University gradu- ample. accusations that if he did in Pennsylvania decided to Mr. T is power hungry, ate who lives in New Or- “We don’t want anyone to feel alienated or not win, the election was bow out of representing and his Republican col- leans. boxed out,” Clark says, “because that’s when rigged. Well Mr. T, you are him. As we know, pres- leagues are afraid of him. people try to show off too much and get heated. rigged! You are rigged to ident-elect Joe Biden won They are afraid because I try to talk to everybody, make sure they feel wel- come and comfortable, talk about their car and just see what they got going on in their life. Some- times I hear some real crazy stories and I tell Black Americans could benefit them they can lean on us if they need to.” The meets don’t start in warehouse back lots, but in brightly lit shopping centers. This is where 50 to 100 cars and their drivers gather from 7 p.m. until 10, when the pit location is decided on from homeownership program by Tilley, Clark and others, then passed around. the community at large, about 14 months, doesn’t some kind of program, ex- Dozens of people mill about, some with drinks By Christopher G. Cox and the community it see the real estate land- cept African Americans,” in their hands and others with cigarettes, around FOR THE CHARLOTTE POST serves. scape changing for at least he continues. Williams be- cars blasting music out of rear-facing subwoofers, “The real estate market “I have seen this movie another nine months be- lieves that the U.S. Depart- trucks lifted three feet above their axles and Ja- continues to be a seller’s before,” says Williams. “In cause some 40 million ment of Housing and panese performance cars with rainbow running market,” says Donnell Wil- 2008, 2009 and 2010 when people are still unem- Urban Development lights. One car is wrapped with the exaggerated liams, broker of record and blacks lost 90% of their ployed, and thousands are should work to create such faces of anime characters, another has two green owner of Destiny Realty, wealth because our wealth still applying for unem- an African American fo- floodlights pointed at the sky. Two men in what and president of the Na- is in our homes. We are ployment benefits. “When cused program. “I’m cal- looks like a ‘50s-era Formula 1 racer on three tional Association of Real trying to get a seat at the the population at large ling for a meeting.” he said. wheels roll through the main strip, and everyone Estate Brokers. “With mort- table, not be on the menu.” catches a cold,” says Wil- Asked how he counsels points and takes pictures while the driver and his gage interest rates low and One of the primary rea- liams, “we catch COVID sellers in a real estate mar- passenger smile with pride. demand for housing high, sons the housing market is 19.” ket where they seem to Clark is an enthusiast of ‘VIP’ or ‘presidential’ homes aren’t staying on so tight is a growing COVID One way to address these have the upper hand, Wil- cars, luxury vehicles with booth seating in the the market as long.” 19 inspired desire by many continuing inequities in liams says he warns that back and tables bolted to the floorboard. According to a recent people to leave more the real estate market, Wil- the highest offer is not al- “But any kind of modification that somebody survey by Freddie Mac, densely populated cities liams explains, would be ways the best offer. puts a lot of time and effort and personality into, mortgage interest rates fell and relocate to outlying the creation of a national “Offers are coming in I respect that,” he says. to a new all-time low of areas where they can “have African American home- above the asking price,” Caleb Riley, 23, drives the anime car, a ‘97 2.81% in mid-October. their own space. This is ownership plan. “Don’t tell Williams says, “but they Honda Prelude in impressive condition for its age. The tight housing market creating a buzz in the mar- me we can’t do it or that are not always the best “Lot of people laugh at this set-up, but I’ve makes it especially diffi- ketplace,” he says. it’s too far reaching be- offer. I urge sellers to sit worked really hard on it and the people here cult for Blacks aspiring to Based in Morristown, N.J., cause it’s been done be- down with their agent and know that,” he says. “I don’t care if some guy at become homeowners, Williams says he is aware fore,” he says. Williams closely examine all aspects f—ing Food Lion says it’s wack, I know I’ve got noted Williams, while at of apartment buildings in points out that when the of the offers to determine my boys here who appreciate me and what I do.” the same time it makes for Newark that are hard to FHA was established it was which one is best. That’s For many people who immerse themselves in a difficult real estate envi- rent because so many for whites only. He also the strongest piece of ad- the custom car lifestyle, the community becomes ronment for Black real es- people are trying to leave. notes that a program called vice I can give sellers right their main social outlet, a place to be with friends tate brokers, who, as “In some places,” he notes, HUD 184 was established now.” and enjoy each other’s craft. NAREB president, he is “you can actually own a in 1992 to provide home Christopher G. Cox is “It’s just like an escape from reality where you concerned about. Founded house cheaper than you loan guarantees for Native publisher and managing don’t have to worry about no bills, you don’t in Tampa, Florida, in 1947, can rent it for.” Americans. editor at gotta worry about no personal problems you NAREB’s purpose is to en- Williams, who has been “So, you’re telling me ev- www.realesavvy.com. have, it’s like you step out,” Clark says. “And we hance the economic im- president of NAREB for erybody is getting help, or like to use our cars to express ourselves. It’s al- provement of its members, most like Sims, like a virtual reality. You can be a totally different person to who you are on the regular.” Since the beginning of the pandemic, the group’s capacity for empathy and support have shone. Some members have lost jobs and had to Follow us on social media give up their cars to help pay their bills, and other members, including Tilley, have started paying visits to their homes and giving rides when they are needed. 5A NEWS | The Charlotte Post Thursday, November 19, 2020
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VISIT FOODLION.COM FOR MORE HOLIDAY IDEAS! 6A NEWS | The Charlotte Post Thursday, November 19, 2020 Speculation swirls Trump Midshipman 1st Class will quit for Pence pardon Sydney Barber makes By Stacy M. Brown and other news outlets are also publish- NATIONAL NEWSPAPER PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION ing articles related to Trump’s possibility of pardoning himself. Naval Academy history According to multiple news reports, Each outlet speculates that the Pres- with the walls of defeat from the 2020 ident is sure to pardon Trump organiza- By Stacy M. Brown Barber served as the 13th how she intends to make election closing in, lame-duck President tion employees who might come under NATIONAL NEWSPAPER company’s executive of- the world a better place ficer and currently serves Donald Trump may be seeking a way to investigation. PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION and her accompanying avoid prosecution after he is no longer in Attorney and former New York City as the Brigade’s 1st regi- bias for action,” said Lt. office while still claiming victory in the Midshipman 1st Class ment executive officer. Commander Darby Yeager, Mayor Rudy Giuliani reportedly is under Sydney Barber, a mechani- election. federal investigation, and former Trump She also initiated a STEM a member of the U.S. Navy Numerous outlets are reporting that cal engineering major from outreach program that lev- Academy’s Truman Schol- advisor Steve Bannon has already been Illinois, has been named Trump is preparing for life after the White indicted. erages mentoring, litera- arship Selection Commit- House, planning a major media platform brigade commander for ture, and service lessons to tee. It’s believed a pardon will occur for the spring semester at the that could net him billions of dollars be- Jared Kushner’s father, Charles Kushner, serve middle school-aged “We were incredibly cause of his robust following. U.S. Naval Academy in An- girls of color. proud to have Sydney rep- who was prosecuted by former New Jer- napolis, Maryland. He’s also examining a host of presiden- sey Governor Chris Christie and pleaded Barber led a team to or- resent the Naval Academy tial pardons, including for his family Barber, a track star with a ganize the inaugural U.S. in her Truman Scholarship guilty in 2004 to tax evasion, retaliating stated desire to work as a members and himself. against a witness and lying to the Federal Naval Academy Black Fe- interview this year,” Yeager One former Democrat aide even floated Marine Corps ground of- male Network Breakfast to added. Election Commission. ficer, be- this wild prediction on Nov. 14: Forbes reported that President-elect Joe bridge the generational Janie Mines, who became In an editorial for The Hill, Brent Bu- comes the gap between current black the first Black woman to Biden wouldn’t pardon Trump. first Black dowsky, who served as an aide to former “If Trump can’t pardon himself, he midshipmen and alumni. graduate from the Naval Sen. Lloyd Bentsen (D-Texas) and former woman to Barber is recently cred- Academy in 1980, ex- would likely have to preemptively resign lead the Naval Rep. Bill Alexander (D-Ark.), said “Trump from office so that Vice President Mike ited with mobilizing a team pressed her excitement for will resign the presidency, and [Vice Pres- Academy’s of more than 180 midship- Barber on Twitter. Pence could assume the presidency and student body. ident] Mike Pence will pardon him.” pardon him,” the magazine reported, men, faculty, and alumni “This bought me to tears. “A presidential pardon by Pence would The brigade to develop the Midship- This young woman, Mid- echoing the editorial by Brent Budowsky commander not offer protection from cases originat- Barber man Diversity Team to shipman Sydney Barber, in The Hill. heads the ing in states, but those cases will be far Any pardon Trump potentially receives promote greater diversity, will be the first Black Fe- more manageable if they are not sunk Academy’s day-to-day ac- inclusivity, and equity male Brigade Commander would only apply to alleged federal tivities and trains the class into a morass of federal cases that only a crimes. within the Brigade. at the U.S. Naval Academy. federal pardon can protect him from,” Bu- of approximately 4,500 “Sydney stands out 40 years later. Thank you, New York Attorney General Letitia midshipmen. Barber be- dowsky added. “While I suspect we will James and Manhattan District Attorney amongst her peers, for not Sydney! Love you!” Mines learn that he is not nearly as wealthy as comes the 16th woman to only her exemplary record tweeted. Cyrus Vance have separate state-related serve in that role. he claims, Trump can reap extravagant fi- fraud and financial crimes cases involv- but for her clear vision of nancial rewards from the mother of all “Earning the title of bri- ing Trump. gade commander speaks business deals which he could conclude A federal pardon would not hinder shortly after he leaves office.” volumes, but the title itself prosecution in those cases. is not nearly as significant CNN reported that current and former Only the governor could offer Trump Trump administration officials say as the opportunity it brings such protection. to lead a team in doing there’s been minimal preparation for an Trump’s adversarial and sometimes expected onslaught of clemencies, as something I believe will be volatile relationship with New York Dem- truly special,” Barber said Trump is still pursuing dubious legal ocratic Mayor Andrew Cuomo makes challenges to the election. in a news release. “I am such a state-level pardon challenging to humbled to play a small But his Twitter feed over the past three imagine. years offers a working list of where the role in this momentous “The ‘Power to grant Reprieves and Par- season of American his- President might turn to wield his pardon dons for Offenses against the United power – primarily toward those targeted tory.” States, except in Cases of Impeachment,’ As a walk-on sprinter and by former special counsel Robert is vested in the President,” the Depart- Mueller’s investigation. hurdler of the Navy ment of Justice wrote in August 1974, Women’s Varsity Track and “Perhaps the biggest looming pardon days before President Richard Nixon re- question is whether Trump will consider Field team, Barber has let- signed. tered all three years of granting himself a pardon, amid state in- “This raises the question of whether the vestigations into his business and fi- competing and is an President can pardon himself. Under the Academy record holder for nances and the prospect of federal fundamental rule that no one may be a investigators scrutinizing him after he the outdoor 4x400m relay, judge in his own case, it would seem that according to her biogra- leaves office,” CNN’s Evan Perez noted. the question should be answered in the Vanity Fair, Forbes, The Independent, phy. negative,” Forbes reported. She is the co-president of the Navy Fellowship of Christian Athletes, secre- tary for the National Soci- Restaurants struggle as ety of Black Engineers, and a USNA Gospel Choir and Midshipman Black Studies restrictions remain Club member. By Christian Green CAROLINA PUBLIC PRESS After lockdowns in the The Charlotte Post Foundation spring pushed many inde- pendent restaurants to the brink, warmer weather and relaxed restrictions on ca- pacity and alcohol sales al- In P Partnershipp with ith lowed restaurants to find their footing and begin re- /BUVSBM4QSJOHT'BSN couping their losses. But with colder weather UI(FOFSBUJPO"GSJDBO"NFSJDBO looming and the largest spikes in COVID-19 cases to date, restaurant owners COLBY RABON / CAROLINA PUBLIC PRESS face what could prove to be a difficult few months. Owais Ahmed and Sophia Rafiqi of Chicago prepared to 8F5IBOL:PV “COVID-19 cases are ris- place a to-go order at Baba Nahm on Nov. 17. The down- ing again, many businesses town Asheville restaurant's dining room remains closed. GPS are running low on cash, Under the current restric- important during the pan- :PVS4VQQPSU they will lose some out- tions, restaurants may op- demic. door seating capacity to erate at 50% of dine-in Some restaurateurs don’t cold weather, and con- capacity as long as they have space for outdoor sumers themselves say follow sanitation require- dining and have had to they aren’t fully comfort- ments. Because of social shift to takeout. able dining inside,” said distancing requirements, Chef Keith Rhodes and Lynn Minges, president of restaurants may not be his co-owner and wife, the N.C. Restaurant and able to reach even 50% ca- Angela, operate their res- Lodging Association. pacity, depending on their taurant, Catch, in a Wil- “If we don’t receive more physical space. mington strip mall setting support, looking forward, For some restaurateurs, where outdoor dining is our industry is facing some creating outdoor dining not an option. They closed serious challenges.” space has allowed for con- during the initial lockdown The financial strain is ev- tinued business. and eventually shifted to ident in the applications by Jason Smith, chef and takeout service. restaurant owners for gov- owner of the 18 Restaurant Jane Anderson, Asheville ernment assistance. Group, which includes Independent Restaurants On Nov. 10, Gov. Roy three eateries in the Trian- Association executive di- Cooper announced that a gle, observed differences rector, has also seen state Commerce Depart- in consumer behavior even owners struggle to manage ment program providing between patrons at Ra- the spectrum of customer mortgage, rent and utility leigh’s Cantina 18 and pa- expectations. relief to certain businesses trons of his Durham “Many customers under- and nonprofits would ex- establishment, Harvest 18, stand our limitations, but tend its eligibility criteria despite only 20 miles sep- some will demand all the to include full-service res- arating the locations. comfort of indoor dining taurants. Owners could Durham customers are and all the safety of out- apply for up to $20,000 much less willing to eat in- door dining,” Anderson per establishment with a doors while the indoor said. “We can’t be all things cap of $40,000 total per lunch crowd in Raleigh is for all people of all differ- business. surprisingly stable, he said, ent levels of comfort, but Applications opened at 8 attributing the difference restaurants are doing their a.m. Nov. 12. By 5:30 p.m. to the type of work done in best to accommodate as that day, the department each place. Many Durham many people as they can.” stopped accepting applica- customers work in the bio- Anderson dined in a res- tions. tech industry, which has taurant where the owner More than 1,300 restau- largely shifted online, purchased two air purifiers rant applications were sub- while those working in for $10,000, she said. The mitted that day, exceeding construction, money man- science around the effec- the estimated $24 million agement and law firms in tiveness of such systems is capacity that remained Raleigh continue with in- uncertain, but “I think that from the original $40 mil- person business. people are looking for any lion in allocated funding. To meet the demands of piece of security that’s out Making modifications a diverse clientele, Smith there … whether it really Restaurant owners ac- says he plans to invest in works or not,” she said. ross the state have found outdoor heaters to attract AIR partnered with non- that no single innovation his wary Durham residents profits Mountain BizWorks or response is a silver bul- during the winter. and Co-operate WNC to let. Instead, they are cre- In Raleigh, he plans to purchase more than 200 ating patchwork solutions create a large outdoor aw- high-quality outdoor based on their unique busi- ning setup — a project he heaters to be used in ness models and the be- has wanted to do for some downtown Asheville this haviors of their clients. time but finds especially winter. The Charlotte Post SportPAGEs 7A THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2020
CAROLINA PANTHERS Carolina Panthers quarterback Teddy Bridgewater (5) left their 46-23 loss to Tampa Bay last week with a knee injury that coach Matt Rhule says isn’t serious. Good news: Teddy’s OK Panthers coach Rhule believes quarterback Bridgewater won’t miss time after hurting knee vs. Tampa Bay By Steve Reed That’s great news for the Panthers con- Neither Bridgewater nor McCaffrey was knee in the fourth quarter and had to be THE ASSOCIATED PRESS sidering Bridgewater’s back- made available to speak to reporters Mon- replaced by P.J. Walker. Bridgewater, who The reeling Carolina Panthers desper- ups have just two career day. has started all 10 games this season, did
ately needed some good news coming off starts between them. The Panthers (3-7) can certainly use all not return. their fifth straight loss, and it appears they Rhule was less forthcoming hands on deck as they look to rebound He had started off hot Sunday complet- got some on Monday. on the status of 2019 All-Pro from a 46-23 thrashing by the Tampa Bay ing his first 13 passes, including two
Coach Matt Rhule said on a video confer- running back Christian Mc- Buccaneers on Sunday. The Panthers were touchdown passes, before the wheels ence call that medical tests revealed that Caffrey, who is still recover- outgained 544-177 and the Bucs racked up began to fall off. Carolina managed just 35 Teddy Bridgewater “does not have a seri- ing from a shoulder injury. 30 first downs. yards in the second half and was outscored ous knee injury” and he added that he’s Bridgewater Rhule is still hopeful McCaf- It was a loss that Rhule called “com- 29-6 after intermission. “ hopeful the quarterback will return to frey will play Sunday but pletely unacceptable.” The Panthers clearly missed McCaffrey, practice Wednesday and play on Sunday sounded less optimistic about his status, What was already a bad day looked to get who has scored two touchdowns in each against the Detroit Lions. calling him “week to week.” worse when Bridgewater injured his right Please see THIRD | 8A
I don’t want to curse every other word, but he basically told everybody to look in the mirror. Carolina Panthers cornerback RASUL DOUGLAS on teammate Shaq Thompson’s lockerroom tirade after their 46-23 loss to Tampa Bay Frustration,“ like losses, pile up for struggling Panthers By Steve Reed ond-half performance, while calling Sun- better in the third quarter,” Rhule said. “It’s third-down opportunities, and the THE ASSOCIATED PRESS day’s home loss “completely been consistent and one of the few things Bucs$ scored on nine straight Frustration grows along with losing unacceptable from every we haven’t improved. The third-down de- possessions$following a first-quarter fum- streak member of that locker room fense — and really, today, third-down of- ble by Ronald Jones. Frustration is growing in Carolina. — player (or) coach.” fense — and third-quarter offense, those The Panthers entered the game last in the Following the team’s fifth straight The problem with Carolina are the two things. We need to figure some- NFL in third-down defense, and they re- loss,$ an embarrassing 46-23$ setback (3-7) is the same issues keep thing out.” peatedly allowed Brady and Jones to keep against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Pan- occurring — a lack of pro- The Panthers and Buccaneers were tied drives alive. Brady accounted for four TDs, thers linebacker and team captain Shaq duction on offense in the at 17 at halftime. and Jones rushed for 192 yards, including Thompson cussed out his teammates in third quarter, and getting off But the second half was all Tampa Bay. a backbreaking 98-yard touchdown on a the locker room. Thompson the field on third down on The Buccaneers outgained the Panthers play Thompson repeatedly called out to A short while later, first-year coach Matt defense. 322-35 after intermission and outscored his defensive teammates in the huddle and Rhule said on a Zoom call he was “unbe- That has sent the season into a tailspin. them 29-6. Tom Brady helped the Bucs again before the snap. lievably disappointed” in his team’s sec- “We better find a way to do something control the clock by converting 10 of 16 Please see LOSSES | 8A
NCCU’s Former JCSU Mills lands athletes turn homecoming on big stage to homegiving Eagles cornerback earns ‘Lumber Company’ aids berth in the Senior Bowl By Herbert L. White the homeless community [email protected] By Ken Koontz North Carolina Central cornerback Bryan SPECIAL TO THE POST Mills has earned an audition in a major col- The last weekend of October has tradition- lege all-star game. ally been homecoming at Johnson C. Smith Mills, a senior from Palmdale, California, University. However, because of COVID-19 has been invited to the Reese’s Senior Bowl, and resulting pandemic, that annual classic becoming the third Eagle in school history was shut down.$ to land a spot in one of the KE SHAWN ENNIS | NC CENTRAL ATHLETICS But the JCSU spirit was still alive as demon- country’s most prestigious North Carolina Central cornerback Bryan Mills earned a berth in the Reese’s Senior Bowl, one of strated by the athletic boosters club of mostly pre-NFL draft showcases.$The the most prestigious college all-star games. former Golden Bulls athletes called the Lum- other two – Doug Wilkerson ber Company. (1970) and Robert Massey coached by NFL staffs, had 93 players Mills paced the MEAC with five intercep- Initially formed in 1990 with 20 members (1989) – each went on to earn drafted over the last two years.$$ tions and ranked second with 13 passes de- and now totaling more than 50, the Lumber Pro Bowl selections in the Mills, who opted out of the 2020 season fended. He also tallied 22 tackles and tied Company would not allow the pandemic to NFL.$ due to COVID-19 concerns, earned 2019 All- the NCCU record for interceptions in a game shut them down for homecoming weekend. The Senior Bowl is sched- MEAC first team and American Football with three against Morgan State. $ Mills Instead, they renamed it “HomeGiving 2020” uled for Jan. 30 at South Al- Coaches Association FCS Coaches All-Amer- In April, Mills earned a spot on a list of top and made their annual gathering a charitable abama’s Hancock Whitney Stadium. The ica and BOXTOROW All-America in his only Black college prospects for the 2021 draft event. game, which showcases top prospects who season at NCCU after transferring from Col- by Draft Diamonds, an online publication A collection of volunteers and supporters have finished their college eligibility lege of Canyons. focused on HBCU football.$ converged on Charlotte’s Women’s Shelter to serve brunch instead doing what would nor- mally have been traditional homecoming-re- « QUEEN CITY FOOTBALL CHRONICLE lated activities. And the most popular event being their annual tailgate party and cooking set-up in the university’s special parking lot converted to cooking competition and tailgat- Independence’s Roberts embraces philanthropy ing. By Ashley Mahoney the condensed USL Champi- They created T-shirts advocat- clothing for donation to Block The Lumber Company’s focus this year was [email protected] onship regular season, he collab- ing for the Black Lives Matter Love Charlotte. His Charlotte In- collecting winter coats and clothing for the Soccer season is over for Hugh orated with The Queen’s English movement and a Gofundme dependence teammates and homeless.$ Roberts, but the season of giving Soccer Show podcast to create a page was created, raising over Charlotte Eagles youth club fam- “Homeless people can more readily survive does not end.$ foundation to benefit local or- $3,000. They used $1,000 to buy ilies also gave to the initiative.$ summer heat, but it’s the freezing winters The Charlotte Independence ganizations empowering com- school supplies and winter Roberts, who is also youth when most of them die,” said DeBloise Payne, defender is focusing on turning munities of color:$ Roots in the clothes and will donate $1,000 coach for the Charlotte Eagles, a former football tight end. “We got a lot of his podcast BackYardFooty into Community Services, Creative each to Block Love Charlotte and saw an outpouring of support various winter items and we are very thankful a brand associated with philan- Player Foundation and Block Creative Player Foundation. from Eagles families after he for the support we have received. But, our ef- thropy and community. During Love Charlotte.$ Hugh Roberts gathers winter Please see IT’S ALWAYS | 8A Please see FORMER | 8A 8A SPORTS | The Charlotte Post Thursday, November 19, 2020 Losses and frustration pile up for Carolina Continued from page 7A part of the season where — this organization But Carolina players still wound up out of has been through seasons where we’ve lost position and a big hole opened for Jones. six, seven, eight games in a row. Where do we That left Thompson fed up in the locker want to go with this? Where do we want to go room. as a team?” “I don’t want to curse every The Panthers are back home to face the other word, but he basically told Lions Sunday. everybody to look in the mir- Christian McCaffrey is expected to return, ror,” Panthers cornerback Rasul but it’s unclear if the Panthers will have Douglas said. “Like the coaches Teddy Bridgewater under center. The veteran have been preaching all week — QB left in the fourth quarter with a knee in- details, leverage, assignment jury and did not return, although the game Douglas and winning your one-on-ones. was getting out of hand at that point. None of us did any of that. The Rhule offered no updated on Bridgewater’s COURTESY KEN KOONTZ whole team, we all did bad. He basically status after the game. cursed everybody out and said we didn’t fight “No one feels sorry for us,” Rhule said Former Johnson C. Smith athletes turned the traditional homecoming activity into phi- hard enough, we didn’t want it more.” plainly. lanthropy with a clothing drive for the homeless. Thompson didn’t speak to reporters after Bridgewater started the game by complet- the game, but his frustration might stem from ing his first 13 passes, including two for having seen this scenario play out before. touchdowns. But Carolina finished 1 of 9 on Former JCSU athletes In 2018, the Panthers were 6-2 before a third-down conversions and managed just 35 seven-game losing streak cost them a spot in yards in the second half. the postseason. Last year the Panthers lost “We’ve played them twice now and they eight straight to close the season with a 5-11 sacked and pressured and hit us,” Rhule said. aid homeless neighbors record. Now the Panthers have lost five in a “That’s been the issue. That’s really been the Continued from page 7A cigars, food, good cheer and old war row after a 3-2 start. issue for us this year offensively. When we forts don’t stop after today,” he noted, stories that as one alum said, “some- “He just wanted to let us know that every- have time, there are some guys open, but you “because we have other similar proj- times change from year-to-year in ac- one has to buy in,” safety Tre Boston said of have to have time. We just didn’t have ects in the works.” curacy.” Thompson’s remarks. “Right now, we’re at a enough time up front.” After feeding at the Women’s Shelter, But it really didn’t matter, since they the Lumber Company gathered in the were all together and trying to make a Biddleville Park near their annual cam- positive difference in the lives of many Third down boggles the Panthers pus homecoming tailgate site to share less fortunate. Continued from page 7A the numbers get worse as the Panthers drop of the three games he has played. He sat out to 15th in second-quarter points per game against the Bucs with a sprained AC joint in (7.9), 31st in third-quarter points per game Charlotte women’s soccer his shoulder after missing six games earlier (2.4) and 27th in fourth-quarter points per this season with a high ankle sprain. game (6.4). WHAT’S WORKING On Sunday, Bridgewater was a perfect 10 While Carolina’s offensive line has not been for 10 on pass attempts in the first quarter, sign eight to letters of intent a strength this season, right tackle Taylor piling up 93 passing yards and two touch- By Ashley Mahoney school’s Patriot Award for academic ex- downs. During the final three quarters, he Moton has been the one exception. He has [email protected] cellence three times in 2019.$ played extremely well, which is a good for the was a combined 8 of 14 for 39 yards with one Eight players will join Charlotte 49ers “We have had the opportunity to see fourth-year pro considering he’s in a contract interception. women’s soccer in 2021. her play numerous times,” Cullen said. year and will become an unrestricted free INJURED Six of the newcomers to sign National “She comes from a very athletic back- agent. Cornerback Donte Jackson continues to Letters of Intent on Nov. 11 are from ground with her family and a pedigree Expect Moton, who earned $1 million this give the Panthers everything he can, playing North Carolina, with the remaining pair of a soccer background, which I love. season, to cash in if he hits the free agent through a painful toe injury. But it’s rare now from South Carolina and Illinois. She has a good feel for the game, an at- market. when Jackson can get through an entire game “We are exceptionally excited about tacking player with great instincts and WHAT NEEDS HELP due to the lingering injury. the incoming class; we’re very proud good personality going to goal. She has Carolina’s third-down defense has been Rhule said Monday he will consider all op- of the work we do here with the recruit- the ability to dribble beyond the first brutal this year, as opponents are converting tions moving forward with the ailing Jackson, ment of the players,” coach John Cullen defender.” an NFL-worst 55.2% of their opportunities into including sitting him down to allow the injury said in a statement. “We always look for Francher is from Wake Forest, and at- first downs. On Sunday, the Buccaneers con- a chance to heal. Jackson left Sunday’s loss high-character individuals, great fami- tends Heritage High. In addition to her verted 10 of 16 third down chances. to the Buccaneers in the second half after his lies, wonderful soccer players, ex- all-conference academic success, she While Tom Brady converted a third-and-19, toe began to act up. tremely coachable young ladies and earned 4A North Carolina Soccer third-and-11 and third-and-7, most of Tampa Running back Mike Davis injured his hand players who will be great student-ath- Coaches Association All-State, All-Re- Bay’s chain-moving drives simply meant against Tampa Bay, but managed to return letes who will represent us well on the gion 5, all-conference as a sophomore, picking up a yard or two, which means Car- and finished the game. field, in the community and in the the only year she has been eligible for olina’s defense isn’t winning on first and sec- KEY NUMBER classroom.” high school soccer so far. She also ond down, either. 544 — Total number of yards surrendered Charlotte signed three locals in Hay- earned MVP after her performance in STOCK UP by the Panthers on Sunday to the Buccaneers, den Hord, Ella Joaquin and Camden the 4A state championship game. The Panthers are getting good production the third-most allowed in the franchise’s 26- Poole. “One of three from the same club from punter Joe Charlton, who averaged 54.3 year history. Hord, a midfielder/forward, played program that will hopefully translate yards per punt against the Bucs with two of NEXT STEPS for Charlotte Soccer Academy under- into success here at Charlotte,” Cullen his four punts being downed inside the The Panthers’ coaching staff will have to 19 ECNL. She also played for the Char- said. “She’s another gifted technical Tampa Bay 10. But it’s never good when your focus on making sure this season doesn’t slip lotte Soccer Academy United States player. She’s extremely coachable and punter is one of your better players. away after a lopsided defeat to the Bucca- Soccer Development Academy side a talented young player. She’s a player STOCK DOWN neers. That means getting players to buy in from 2017-19. The U.S. Soccer Federa- we think will break into the lineup, like Carolina has started fast in games this sea- to the process and not try to do too much on tion eliminated the DA earlier this year. many of the others, very quickly.” son. But continuing that momentum after the their own, which can lead to players being out Hord, who attends Cuthbertson High, Rodelli, a midfielder from Carrboro, first 15 minutes has been an issue. The third of position. was also a member of the 2016 North attends Chapel Hill High. She has quarter, in particular, has been a major prob- For the Panthers, it comes down to winning Carolina Olympic Development Pro- played club soccer exclusively and lem. the third quarter on offense and third downs gram Region III state team and played earned an invitation to the U.S. Market The Panthers are seventh in the league in on defense. for the state ODP Team 1 from 2014- Training Center in 2017-18. From first-quarter points per game (6.6). However, 16. 2017-20 she played in the DA, qualify- “She’s someone who’s exceptionally ing for national playoffs in 2018 and good in those hard spaces,” Cullen 2019. said. “She can play wide but also play Then she joined ECNL in 2020-21. centrally. She finds those pockets of She is also a member of the National space that allows her to get on the ball, Latin Honor Society, with a 4.6 grade It’s always giving season for Roberts get faced up..” point average. Joaquin, who lives in Matthews, at- “[She is] an excellent young technical Continued from page 7A teammates were also key contrib- shipping things in and dropping tends Porter Ridge High and plays for player,” Cullen said. “Very smart, very posted about the foundation utors.$ things off. Just the impact from the Charlotte Independence ECNL composed, very poised on the ball. holding a school supply and “All my Eagles family dropped the whole community has been squad. The midfielder was voted to the That’s essential to us with how we play. clothing donation drive at Block off clothes and school supplies,” tremendous, and to have the 2019 All-Region 8 and All-Southwest 4A We play through the midfield and bring Love Charlotte. His Independence Roberts said. “People have been whole community’s support has Conference first team. numbers forward through building and been big.” “She is very, very comfortable on the we want players who are comfortable After distributing winter sup- ball,” Cullen said. “She can play as a on the ball. She has high soccer intelli- plies to the homeless over the holding midfield player. She plays with gence in terms of the middle of the weekend, Roberts intends to take poise and composure and is a good, pitch. She’s very good at knitting things school supplies and winter cloth- two-footed player. We want to get her together, a neat, timely player. She’s ing donations to Charlotte-Meck- close to goal because she has some improving all the time with her attack- lenburg Schools this week. He great ideas around that area.” ing game and getting better and better also has a few ideas in mind for Poole, an outside midfielder/forward, with her defensive side of the game. the holidays.$ attends Hough High and plays for the Her style of player suits the style we “I feel like I have some roots Charlotte Independence ECNL. She was like to play here.” here, and meeting a bunch of fans voted to the North Carolina Soccer Striker Hanna Kimmelman and de- and people in the community has Coaches Association All-Region 9 and fender Kiara Praelle are the out-of-state been great,” said Roberts, whose All-I-Meck 4A teams in 2018 and 2019. signees. father graduated from Garinger “Camden is a player we’ve had our Kimmelman is from Greenville, South High School.$ eye on for quite a while,” Cullen said. Carolina, where she attends Southside Roberts is an active advocate for “She’s a left-footed player. She’s a Christian Academy and plays for South social change, speaking out player who I feel has great versatility – Carolina United FC. She was voted to against racial injustice locally and she can play left back, left wing back, the 2019 2A South Carolina High nationally. However, the Indepen- left midfield or even left forward.” School Soccer Coaches Association all- dence’s front office was slow to Macey Bader, Braelynn Francher and state and all-region teams, and earned speak out against racial injustice Kate Rodelli are part of the North Car- all-region honors in 2018. She scored and has not separated itself from olina Courage Academy. 27 goals and had 26 assists in 2019 for the anti-Black Lives Matter social Bader, an attacking midfielder from her high school team, leading them to media sentiments of majority Apex, attends Friendship High. She the 2A state title.$ owner Dan DiMicco. Yet players earned North Carolina Soccer Coaches “A young lady who came to a couple like Roberts remain committed to Association All-Region 6 team and all- of our ID events and improved each creating change.$ conference recognition as a sophomore time she came back,” Cullen said. “The Charlotte community has in 2019 while also leading the team to “What I liked about her was her desire gotten behind me this whole the third round of the state playoffs. to go$to goal. She’s always the main at- COURTESY HUGH ROBERTS quarantine, and having my back She led her high school team in as- tacking threat of her club team and car- Charlotte Independence defender Hugh Roberts is using his platform to before my own club had my back sists, while serving as her club’s lead- rying the fight to the opposition. She’s raise awareness for the city's homeless as well as social justice initiatives. said a lot,” Roberts said.$ ing scorer. Bader also earned her a great finisher of the ball.” The Post’s podcast for local sports. Follow on Snapchat thecharpost
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