Bottom line for Panthers: When the defense plays lights out, they win TThhee CChhaarrllootttteeTHE VOICE P POF THE BLACKo oCOMMUNITYss SINCEtt 1906 WEEK OF NOVEMBER 26, 2020 VOLUME 47, NUMBER 12 WWW.THECHARLOTTEPOST.COM $1.50 « WOMB TO TOMB: THE RACIAL HEALTH GAP Election results mixed for women By Krystal Frierson FOR THE CHARLOTTE POST While political newcomers achieved many firsts across Amer- ica in 2020, North Carolina was more muted, especially for women of color. There’s more racial and political diversity with candidates success- ful running on platforms of equity in healthcare, education and crim- inal justice reform as well as elim- inating institutionalized racism, socio-economic disparities and gender inequalities. Additionally, they represent a larger portion of Millennial and Gen-Z Asian, Black, STOCK PHOTO; Hispanic, Indigenous, LGBTQ, and Long-standing racial health disparities have gained new awareness with the advancing coronavirus pandemic and related economic recession. LGBTQ people of color. According to Pew, more Ameri- cans exercised their vote in 2020 than any other election over the last 120 years. Additionally, there Prognosis uncertain for was a significant increase in Black voter turnout. According to CNN exit polls, the election of President- elect Joe Biden and running mate closing health disparities Kamala Harris was made possible by 90% turnout among Black women and 79% of Black men. In Between coronavirus and recession, there’s greater awareness of inequities North Carolina, 93% of Black women and 91% of Black men sup- By Herbert L. White honest discussion given the backdrop of are pressing given the intersection of ported Biden, who lost the state to racism that creates gaps, said Dr. Jerome economics and race. In Charlotte, for in- [email protected] President Donald Trump. Williams, Novant Health’s senior vice stance, where you live often determines In many instances, newcomers This article was produced as a project president of consumer engagement. exposure to negative health outcomes. A are ascending to represent margin- for the Dennis A. Hunt Fund for Health “We have to understand that's the study by the American Lung Association alized communities’ needs while Journalism, a program of the USC Annen- foundation that we're deal- on air pollution and health steering a polarized country in a berg Center for Health Journalism’s 2020 ing with, and ultimately we issues especially among new direction. As Pew suggests, National Fellowship. have to change those struc- Blacks found direct correla- “the elected officials will be rep- Who’s responsible for Charlotte’s tures,” he said. “Far too tions between air quality resenting two broad coalitions of health? many times, there are or- and health issues. voters who are deeply distrustful While there are long-acknowledged ganizations that go into “We know quite a few of one another.” Each party’s fun- gaps fueled by economic and racial dis- communities, grab data things actually,” said Dr. damental beliefs over policies, parities, there’s more awareness and ac- and exit communities, but Cheryl Lynn Walker-McGill, plans, and nationwide problems tivism to close disparities. In addition to they don't listen to the Williams Walker-McGill a Charlotte allergy and im- are at odds. growing demands to expand insurance community. Often, a munology specialist and Women dominated tickets across coverage to the poorest Americans, indi- number of the answers and solutions to former president of the local National the country, but in North Carolina, viduals can also make a difference, espe- the challenges are right there in the com- Medical Association’s affiliate. “One is Black women realized mixed re- cially in building awareness. munity if we just take time to listen. that air pollution negatively impacts sults in statewide races. In a nation split over whether access to “Now, some of those solutions may re- health in many ways. Even if you have Rep. Zack Hawkins, a Black Dem- health care should be a right, the discus- quire a business plan, may require fi- normal lungs when you're exposed to ocrat from Durham, showed his sion has moved to the forefront, espe- nancing, may require some type of really bad air quality it can impact them. support on Twitter, @zackhawk- cially given the country’s erratic partnership and support, but often those But, if you have underlying lung disease insnc, for Black women in North response to the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s answers are already in the community, such as asthma or emphysema, or COPD, Carolina. "Women Lead. That is incumbent upon health care providers, and we have to go and listen to them.” the impact can be much worse, and so it why I back these amazing four communities and lawmakers to have an For vulnerable populations, the needs Please see PROGNOSIS | 2A statewide candidates. When you go to the polls, make sure you vote down the ballot and vote for Please see BLACK WOMEN | 3A Down payment aid Restaurants for local frontline face more workers available uncertainty By Ashley Mahoney By Christian Green [email protected] Down payment assistance is expanding for essen- CAROLINA PUBLIC PRESS tial workers who want to buy a home in Mecklenburg After lockdowns in the spring County. E-FIX DEVELOPMENT CORP. pushed many independent restau- rants to the brink, warmer weather The city of Charlotte, Federal Home Loan Bank of An artist's rendering of E-Fix Development Corp.'s planned project at the former McDon- Atlanta and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Housing Part- and relaxed restrictions on capac- ald's Cafeteria site on Beatties Ford Road. Financial services giant J.P. Morgan Chase ity and alcohol sales allowed res- nership Inc. will extend the Community Heroes will be the anchor tenant. Homeownership Program to provide up to $30,000 taurants to find their footing and in down payment support for essential workers. The begin recouping their losses. program’s goal is to help essential workers become But with colder weather looming New development for the and the largest spikes in COVID-19 homeowners in the community they serve. “Homeownership helps people build wealth, and, cases to date, restaurant owners in turn, healthier, more stable neighborhoods,” said face what could prove to be a dif- Pamela Wideman, director of Housing & Neighbor- Beatties Ford Road corridor ficult few months. “COVID-19 cases are rising again, hood Services Department. “This program makes founder and CEO Christopher Den- many businesses are running low homeownership accessible to people who may not By Ashley Mahoney nis’ plans. Dennis last week com- on cash, they will lose some out- otherwise be able to afford it, while enabling our [email protected] memorated the first of multiple door seating capacity to cold workforce to live in the places they serve. It’s an im- E-Fix Development Corp. has planned projects for the corridor, weather, and consumers them- portant way to thank our community heroes on the broken ground on a re-use project breaking ground at 2023 Beatties selves say they aren’t fully com- front lines of this pandemic for their work and serv- along the Beatties Ford Road corri- Ford Road first. fortable dining inside,” said Lynn ice in our community.” dor. JPMorgan Chase will serve as the Minges, president of the N.C. Res- Eligible occupations include: Charlotte City site’s anchor tenant. taurant and Lodging Association. • Healthcare workers such as nurse assistants, Council District 2 Future projects for E-Fix include On The Net “If we don’t receive more sup- nurse practitioners, registered nurses and sanitation representative Mal- 2020 Beatties Ford Road, as well as https://e-fix- port, looking forward, our industry • Charter and public school teachers colm Graham al- an undisclosed additional site along development- is facing some serious challenges.” • First responders luded to future the corridor. McDonald’s Cafeteria corp.com/proj The financial strain is evident in • Child care workers projects when the once sat at 2023 Beatties Ford Road, ects/ the applications by restaurant • Grocery and pharmacy employees city unveiled its $24.5 where it was an anchor in the com- owners for government assistance. • City and county solid waste workers million Corridors of Op- munity for over 30 years before On Nov. 10, Gov. Roy Cooper an- • Workers in homeless shelters, including case portunity program in September but closing in 2003. Please see DOWN PAYMENT | 2A declined sharing details about E-Fix Please see DEVELOPMENT |2A Please see WINTER | 3A INSIDE Please STAY IN TOUCH Digital edition: Sports 5A Snapchat: thecharpost www.thecharlottepostnewspaper.com Recycle Life 1B Twitter: @thecharpost A&E 5B To subscribe: (704) 376-0496 or online Facebook: The Charlotte Post Classified 4B http://tcppc.com/Subscribe Instagram: @thecharlottepost #PaperThursday 2A NEWS | The Charlotte Post Thursday, November 26, 2020 Prognosis uncertain on disparities Continued from page 1A nancy and childbirth have are also more likely to go hensive care that main- Development can cause inflammation in increased levels of risk. without access to health in- tains protections for those Continued from page 1A the lungs.” African Americans are surance. Even with Medi- with pre-existing con- “I’m excited to be a part of the change that is hap- Historically, that’s the three times more likely to care, the federal insurance ditions.” pening on Beatties Ford Road, the West End corri- hand Charlotte’s working- die in childbirth than their program for low-income Nearly 110,000 Mecklen- dor,” Dennis said. “We have been on this journey class Blacks were dealt – white counterparts, and Americans, an estimated burg residents suffer from since early 2019. It’s been a long time. To see this low-wage and often more U.S. Rep. Alma Adams, a minimum of 500,000 asthma, according to the day come into fruition is truly inspiring for me, dangerous jobs in the Charlotte Democrat and North Carolinians still lack lung association survey, in- especially in the midst of a global pandemic. We are city’s most environmen- co-founder and co-chair of coverage. The state is one cluding 30,000 children here to help facilitate positive change for all those tally-challenged areas. the Black Maternal Health of 12 that hasn’t expanded and more than 61,000 who live, work and invest positive change in this Even with the evolution of Caucus, is pushing Con- eligibility to tap into the people have chronic ob- community. Beatties Ford Road is strong, because technology, that role hasn’t gress to pass her bill, the program. Without em- structive pulmonary dis- of the people who live, work and invest here. I am changed for people who Kira Johnson Act, before ployer-provided insurance, ease. proud to be one of those people that are working lack the education or eco- dismissing the gap is widening. There’s even a gulf in air and living that dream.” nomic stature to aspire for the year. “I think people are start- quality among the state’s Said Mayor Vi Lyles: “This corridor is going to higher. H.R. 6144, ing to realize that health- most populous counties, make a difference.” “Many African Americans which gained care is attached to where urban living means E-Fix will work with Historic West End Partners were service workers, 13 additional corporate positions, higher major sources of air pollu- and the city to stimulate economic development maids, and there was a cosponsors paying jobs that comes tion. Mecklenburg and along the corridor. whole class of errand last week, is with it [as] part of your Wake each have more than “As the founder and program director for the His- runners which is now han- part of the benefits,” said DonnaMarie 1 million residents, but toric West End Partners, I want to say to you that dled by the internet and Adams Black Mater- Woodson, a two-time Mecklenburg County, with there can be a lot accomplished with a simple yes Amazon and things like nal Health cancer survivor and advo- 1.1 million people, has the and some perseverance,” J’Tanya Adams of HWEP that,” said Tom Hanchett, Momnibus, a series of bills cate for uni- state’s dirtiest air, scoring said. staff historian at Charlotte that would invest federal versal the lone “F” grade accord- Said Dennis: “Our work is about three pillars: local Mecklenburg Library. “A lot funding for programs to medical in- ing to the lung associa- community engagement, small business devel- of the hard labor at places improve childbirth survi- surance. “So tion’s pollution score card. opment and highlighting art and culture to drive like Charlotte Pipe and vor rates. as people are Charlotte is No. 41 in the intentional conversations. We believe in preserving Foundry… the Highland “Prior to the pandemic, losing their nation among most-pol- the history and culture of the West End community Park Mill, which is now Black moms were three to businesses, luted cities for ozone, a as we embrace the start of developments that will Heist Brewery in NoDa. The four times more likely than their jobs, major source of contami- reshape the outside perception, and I do say per- folks who picked up the white moms to die in child- they're going, nation. Ozone is especially Woodson ception, of the area, and showcase what is a strong cotton bales from Luton birth,” Adams said. “Since ‘where's the prevalent in lower-income and vibrant community.” where they needed to go. January, 38,000 pregnant health insurance? I don't and mostly Black neighbor- The Corridors of Opportunity program seeks to The people who handled women in the U.S. have have that anymore.’ So, it's hoods on the westside near address gaps in infrastructure, workforce, trans- the hot iron coming in to been diagnosed with speaking to our com- heavily traveled roads and portation, housing and code enforcement, business make pipes. Traditionally, COVID-19. As pregnant munity.” industry. In essence, they development, public safety and urban design. It is African Americans had to women continue to seek Cunningham, the House are far more susceptible underway on Beatties Ford Road and West Boule- do the jobs that a lot of necessary maternal health Democratic whip, agrees. than upper-income com- vard. Remaining corridors include Central Ave- other folks did not want, care during the pandemic, “According to the munities like Myers Park or nue/Albemarle, Freedom Drive/Wilkinson and those jobs were either we must invest in cul- numbers, we know that if Ballantyne, which is why Boulevard, Graham Street/North Tryon Street as dirty or harder on your turally competent organi- Medicaid expansion was to westside residents have well as Sugar Creek Road/Interstate 85. Council health.” zations. Community-based take place, it will signifi- urged city officials to re- member at-large James Mitchell credited city coun- Even breathing is harder health care providers are cantly help African Ameri- duce vehicle emissions cil’s January retreat with the motivation behind the on Blacks, where in North leading the charge in im- cans [and other] people of and even plant more trees, program, but more is needed. Carolina the disparity in proving outcomes for color significantly, because which produce oxygen, re- “I want my home to reflect the progressiveness cardiopulmonary disease Black women and birthing in most cases, they are es- duce erosion and mitigate of our community as a whole,” said Graham, who is clear-cut. More than persons. …Black moms sential workers. Besides, flooding, a source of mold. represents the Beatties Ford Road corridor. “This is 264,000 children and matter, and we need every the healthcare profes- “Living close to high traf- not a District 2 project. This is a citywide project 736,000 adults were dia- member of Congress to sionals that are not making fic areas will result in expo- that reflects the values of a community, that every- gnosed with asthma as of stand up and join us in wages on high enough, and sure to more pollution,” one deserves safe, affordable, decent housing, that 2019, according to the supporting policies that even like your employees Walker-McGill said. “It’s every community deserves to live in a community American Lung Associa- save lives.” at Amazon, Walmart in certainly living closer to free from crime, that every community deserves tion’s State of the Air re- A nurse by profession, those places, still a lot of well-traveled highways, adequate shopping and finance, that every com- port, but African state Rep. them qualify for Medicaid, but also highly traveled munity deserves to be the best it can be. Chris has Americans had a hospital- Carla Cun- because they are not their streets. So, if you live near taken a giant step forward to ensure that this will ization rate of 19.4 per ningham has income is still not high a street where there's a lot happen on Beatties Ford Road. This not just a 10,000 people, according been a lead- enough that they would of [industrial] work, there's groundbreaking. This is the first of many positive to the Department of ing advocate not qualify. a lot of traffic by cars, then activities for this corridor. Chris is just leading the Health and Human Serv- for wider An October survey by the your exposure is just going way. I assure you there will be others that will fol- ices. By comparison, health access, American Cancer Society to be more. A concern, of low. The city will do its fair share to ensure that whites were hospitalized at with mixed Cancer Action Network course, would be for young those who need just a little help to get across the a rate of 6.7 per 10,000. Cunningham results. The found that access to com- children who are more sus- finish line get the type of support that they need.” Combined with underlying Republican- prehensive medical care ceptible to the impact of co-morbidities such as leaning legislature passed that covers necessary serv- air pollution playing out- obesity and heart disease, a law in 2013 that blocked ices is the top health con- side for long periods of environmental challenges Medicaid expansion, es- cern of 51% of cancer time in those areas.” have life-and-death con- sentially freezing federal patients and survivors. Ultimately, Woodson be- Down payment aid sequences. eligibility at current levels. Twenty percent cited the lieves, social justice is key “People who have under- An alternative, Carolina availability of coverage to eliminating health dis- Continued from page 1A lying heart disease are Cares, never came up for a with job change. parities. Whether it’s a liv- workers and counselors going to be even more sus- vote in either chamber of “Cancer patients and sur- ing wage, insurance • Department of Social Services case and social workers ceptible to some of the the General Assembly after vivors are acutely aware of coverage or the environ- • Supply chain company employees challenges with air pollu- courts shot down work re- the critical importance of ment, everything is related • Funeral home employees. tion with exposure,” quirements for similar bills comprehensive coverage to what disproportionately Prospective buyers must have household incomes of Walker-McGill said. “But in other states. and the need to have ac- ails African Americans. 80.01%-120% of area median income in order to qualify. the reality for African Since then, COVID has cess to quality care even if “It's housing, it’s food de- For those who are not eligible for Community Heroes, Americans [is they are] are occurred,” Cunningham your job changes or you’re serts, it’s the wealth gap,” the HouseCharlotte program offers five-, 10- or 15-year more likely to have said, “and the subject laid off,” said Lisa Lacasse, she said. “It’s not being deferred and forgivable loans to cover down payment, asthma, more likely to matter still is discussed of ACS CAN’s president. paid. [A minimum wage of closing costs and interest rate buy down. The program have heart disease. And so, how to do it. Legislation “Sadly, the pandemic and $7.50 an hour] you’re will fund up to $10,000 for families with a household in- given that and then more was put in place in 2013 its associated economic working poor. You can't come at or beneath 80% of the area median. likely to live in areas where that we could not expand fallout have made these live on $7 an hour. And For buyers within Charlotte city limits, the program will there are higher amounts Medicaid, so the first thing priorities clear to many rent? Holy crap, the pricing provide up to $10,000 for public service employees with of poor air quality, the two that would have to happen millions more Americans. of rent has skyrocketed, so household incomes at or below 80% of the area median combined equal increased is we would have to repeal The survey underscores it's just all of the elements income; $7,500 for families with household incomes risk of having complica- that statute removed.” the imperative that elected overall. We’re just a micro- above 80% of the area median income not to exceed tions, and even increased Essential workers who lawmakers at every level of cosm here in Charlotte, but 110%. Up to $17,000 may be provided for families with risk of mortality.” live on the economic mar- government prioritize ac- it's representative of the household income at or below 80% of the area median For Black women, preg- gins and the unemployed cess to affordable, compre- rest of the country.” for buying a home in select high-cost neighborhoods.

CharlotteWater.org

FATS, OILS, GREASE & WIPES 3A NEWS | The Charlotte Post Thursday, November 26, 2020 Winter brings renewed Black women struggle pressures on restaurants in statewide elections Continued from page 1A each place. Many Durham Independent Restaurants nounced that a state Com- customers work in the bio- Association executive di- Continued from page 1A best judges must be trained to rec- merce Department pro- tech industry, which has rector, has also seen Yvonne Holley, Jessica Holmes, Lora ognize our own biases. We have to be gram providing mortgage, largely shifted online, owners struggle to manage Cubbage, and Cheri Beasley. #abetter- experts not just in law but in equity – rent and utility relief to while those working in the spectrum of customer northcarolina." equity that recognizes the difficult certain businesses and construction, money man- expectations. Cubbage, Holley, and Holmes all lost truths about our shared past. We must nonprofits would extend agement and law firms in “Many customers under- by small percentages in campaigns openly acknowledge the disparities its eligibility criteria to in- Raleigh continue with in- stand our limitations, but for state Court of Appeals, lieutenant that exist and are too often perpetu- clude full-service restau- person business. some will demand all the governor and secretary of labor, re- ated by our justice system.” rants. Owners could apply To meet the demands of comfort of indoor dining spectively. Beasley, the first Black During a forum hosted by The Fed- for up to $20,000 per es- a diverse clientele, Smith and all the safety of out- woman chief justice of the North Car- eralist Society, Newby responded to a tablishment with a cap of says he plans to invest in door dining,” Anderson olina Supreme Court, is locked in a question regarding whether there $40,000 total per business. outdoor heaters to attract said. “We can’t be all things tight battle against senior associate were two types of justice in North Car- Applications opened at 8 his wary Durham residents for all people of all differ- justice Paul Newby. olina. a.m. Nov. 12. By 5:30 p.m. during the winter. ent levels of comfort, but A trailing candidate may ask for a re- “Courts are made to decide cases that day, the department In Raleigh, he plans to restaurants are doing their count if the margin is and controversies that come before it. stopped accepting applica- create a large outdoor aw- best to accommodate as 10,000 votes or less in I have yet to meet a victim who cared tions. ning setup — a project he many people as they can.” North Carolina. On Nov. anything about the race of the perpe- More than 1,300 restau- has wanted to do for some Anderson dined in a res- 17, Newby led with 366 trator. Justice is blindfolded; justice rant applications were sub- time but finds especially taurant where the owner votes. Beasley's lawyer treats everyone the same. So, where’s mitted that day, exceeding important during the pan- purchased two air purifiers filed a formal request for the evidence that we're not treating the estimated $24 million demic. for $10,000, she said. The a recount. According to everyone the same? As a court, we can capacity that remained Some restaurateurs don’t science around the effec- NCSBE, recounts of 5 mil- do that. In terms of making public pol- from the original $40 mil- have space for outdoor tiveness of such systems is Beasley lion ballots cast in North icy and public pronouncements, I lion in allocated funding. dining and have had to uncertain, but “I think that Carolina's Supreme Court don't think that's the role of the judi- Making modifications shift to takeout. people are looking for any chief justice contest will begin later cial branch.” Restaurant owners ac- Chef Keith Rhodes and piece of security that’s out this week. The recount will take sev- A 2019 Brennen Center report on ross the state have found his co-owner and wife, there … whether it really eral days and must be completed by state supreme court diversity found that no single innovation Angela, operate their res- works or not,” she said. Nov. 25. that between 2000 and 2016, only five or response is a silver bul- taurant, Catch, in a Wil- AIR partnered with non- Senior Pastor Sh'Kur Francis of New candidates of color won state su- let. Instead, they are cre- mington strip mall setting profits Mountain BizWorks Hope United Methodist Church in At- preme court elections as nonincum- ating patchwork solutions where outdoor dining is and Co-operate WNC to lanta started a conversation on bents, while 46 candidates of color based on their unique busi- not an option. They closed purchase more than 200 Twitter regarding the race. On Nov. lost. The report found that justices ness models and the be- during the initial lockdown high-quality outdoor 14, under his account @_shkurfrancis, who first reach the bench via an in- haviors of their clients. and eventually shifted to heaters to be used in he tweeted: “Cheri Beasley, the first terim appointment would more than Under the current restric- takeout service. downtown Asheville this African American Chief Justice of the likely have to stand in a contested tions, restaurants may op- Jane Anderson, Asheville winter. North Carolina Supreme Court, is election to keep their seat. Further, in- erate at 50% of dine-in holding on to reelection by 35 votes cumbent judges of color were chal- capacity as long as they after 5.5 million have been cast. lenged and lost more often than white follow sanitation require- EVERY VOTE MATTERS! Please don't incumbents. Men of color faced the ments. Because of social Dental Insurance underestimate the power of your most challenges, while distancing requirements, vote.” white men faced the restaurants may not be Get the dental care you deserve with dental insurance from The race between Beasley and least. able to reach even 50% ca- Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. It can help cover the Newby has been controversial among In Charlotte, DeAndrea pacity, depending on their services you’re most likely to use – North Carolina residents. Before Beas- Salvador won her race physical space. ley started her judicial career, she was for state Senate District For some restaurateurs, a former public defender; Newby, a 39, flipping the tradi- creating outdoor dining Cleanings X-rays Fillings Crowns Dentures former prosecutor. Their platforms tionally red district. She space has allowed for con- Preventive care starts right away and ideologies have clashed on sev- is a political newcomer, tinued business. Salvador eral cases. but no stranger in local Jason Smith, chef and Helps cover over 350 services Beasley addressed the intersection professional and com- owner of the 18 Restaurant Go to any dentist you want – but of justice and protests around the munity circles. She is founder of the Group, which includes save more with one in our network state in a call for greater accountabil- Renewable Energy Transition Initia- three eateries in the Trian- No deductible, no annual maximum ity. tive, a non-profit focused on helping gle, observed differences “In our courts, African Americans families reduce energy costs sustai- in consumer behavior even Call today for all the details. are more harshly treated, more se- nably. She serves on the boards of between patrons at Ra- 844-496-8601 verely punished, and more likely to be Clean Air Carolina and Youth Empow- leigh’s Cantina 18 and pa- presumed guilty,” she said in a June ered Solutions. Previously, she served trons of his Durham press conference. on the Mecklenburg County Air Qual- establishment, Harvest 18, Beasley emphasized that “even the ity Commission for three years. despite only 20 miles sep- arating the locations. dental50plus.com/ncpress Durham customers are much less willing to eat in- Product not available in all states. Includes the Participating Providers and Preventive Benefi ts Rider. Acceptance guaranteed for one insurance doors while the indoor policy/certifi cate of this type. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation. This specifi c offer is not available in CO, NY; call lunch crowd in Raleigh is 1-888-799-4433 or respond for similar offer. Certifi cate C250A (ID: C250E; The Charlotte Post surprisingly stable, he said, PA: C250Q); Insurance Policy P150 (GA: P150GA; NY: P150NY; OK: P150OK; Subscribe to TN: P150TN). 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© 2020 NATIONAL NEWSPAPER PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION 4A NEWS & OPINION | The Charlotte Post Thursday, November 26, 2020 TheThe CharlotteCharlotte PostPost Pandemic affirmed my education The Voice of the Black Community Gerald O. Johnson | CEO/PUBLISHER vision for most vulnerable students [email protected] Robert L. Johnson | PUBLISHER/GENERAL MANAGER I wish I could say being deliver a high-quality pub- equipped with the technol- allowed charter schools raised by two military par- lic education is urgent. Our ogy they needed and could like Sugar Creek to shine [email protected] ents and joining the mili- students cannot afford to be trained under such because of the ways we are tary myself prepared me lose one more day of learn- short notice. We set aside a positioned to expand the Herbert L. White | EDITOR IN CHIEF for the unique position I ing—their futures depend few hours and practiced role of school into one that [email protected] was faced on it. with each other and did serves not only our stu- with when Already one month into our best to troubleshoot dents, but the needs of the Published weekly by The Charlotte Post Publishing Company the coronavi- this school year, our com- technical matters. We also broader community. Inc., 5118 Princess Street, Charlotte, NC 28269 (USPS #965500). rus pandemic munity at Sugar Creek called and held a virtual The way Sugar Creek Subscription is $65 per year. Periodicals postage paid at Char- forced our Charter School is function- meeting with our families Charter School has been lotte, NC. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Charlotte schools to ing no differently than the to walk them through what able to use our flexible and Post, PO Box 30144, Charlotte, NC 28230 close; or that start of every school year, this instruction would look autonomous school model I drew on the albeit virtually. Our stu- like. to pivot quickly and meet CHERYL adversity I dents receive five hours of But it wasn’t just the in- the needs of our majority overcame live instruction, group ac- structional needs we Black student population is TURNER growing up tivities, and one-on-one needed to meet. We just one of the reasons as a Black extra support every day. needed to make sure we why the Black community Lying and teenaged girl in Germany. I Working with my teachers, could soften the blow the overwhelmingly supports can’t even say my experi- we were able to incorpo- coronavirus pandemic charter schools. In fact, ac- ences as a first-year rate extracurricular activ- would ultimately sideline cording to 2020 poll by the teacher in Baltimore City ities for our high school our families with. We hired American Federation for denying Trump Public Schools, one of the students to participate in extra guidance counselors Children, 62% of the Black toughest in the nation, pre- virtually, as well as "lunch and social workers to pro- community surveyed con- pared me to mitigate the and learn" workshops with vide support for both our firmed they would be less Republicans educational and socioeco- local leaders, including en- students and their parents. likely to support a pres- nomic fallout of the pan- trepreneurs. We also made regular idential candidate who Trump and members of the Republican Party are demic for students at But this didn’t happen phone calls and text mes- aims to eliminate all fed- sore losers. They have filed over 35 claims of voter Sugar Creek Charter School overnight. When Governor sages as ways to conduct eral public charter school fraud and election tampering and have had 24 of in Charlotte. Cooper announced school wellness checks. funding. them thrown out of court. When I look back at these closures in the middle of Meal delivery for our With so much uncer- The president held a meeting on last week with past seven months, what I March, we had only two McKinney-Vento group of tainty that lies ahead this some of his Republican operatives to see if there was credit to strategically guid- days to ensure our stu- students was never inter- school year, there are still a light at the end of the tunnel and a path to victory. ing my staff and students dents wouldn’t miss any rupted. Our social workers a few things I’m sure of. I I believe he was told that it was dark in through this unchartered instruction. My main con- continue to personally de- am a Black woman, a vet- that tunnel. territory is actually the cerns were providing the liver these daily meals and eran, and an educator com- Meanwhile, states are certifying their foundation upon which educational and physical we began including extra mitted to the vision that election results as true and accurate this innovative public needs of our students who food for the weekend. This every child deserves ac- declaring Biden the winner. Also Mr. T school was built. What de- are already burdened as also gives our social cess to a high-quality last week terminated Chris Krebs, the fines a charter school is the Black and brown children workers an opportunity to school. Through this lens cybersecurity and infrastructure idea of providing access from low-income families. personally ensure these the pandemic has only em- agency chief for his highly inaccurate for every student to an ex- My staff and I immediately students are doing well boldened my support for remarks about voter integrity. cellent education, the idea started reaching out to our physically and emotionally charter schools and belief JAMES “Then you will know the truth and of personalized learning, local elected officials and and have the resources that we need more of EWERS the truth will set you free.” We have and the idea of meeting the business leaders to find they need to log in and them. And finally, I vote. heard this Bible verse many times. unique needs of students. ways to provide all our stu- complete their assign- Cheryl Turner is the Su- Being truthful was something we For my school community, dents with access to ments. perintendent of Sugar learned to do when we were children. If we told an which is composed of 90% Chrome Books, iPads, and The pandemic has tragi- Creek Charter School in untruth, we would be chastised for it. Black students, many of portable Wifi hotspots. cally underscored our na- Charlotte. As adults, we realized that lying had its repercus- whom come from low-in- The next step was to en- tion’s educational sions and they were not good. In order not to deal come families, the need to sure our teachers were inequities, but it has also with the ramifications of lying, just tell the truth. Be honest. That is exactly what Krebs did. He told the truth. Being president: Donald Trump and me In a tweet, Krebs said: “Honored to serve. We did it right. Defend today. Secure tomorrow.” Many in I had hoped that Donald the needs of students who but there was no one to pe- I was discouraged. both parties are applauding the job Krebs did. Trump’s term would be looked like me to people tition to. There were no bi- I left that school feeling In our recent memory is the tampering by the Rus- written in pencil, not pen. who couldn’t visualize liv- partisan or impartial hopeless as many students sians in the 2016 presidential election. Despite the Easily erasable. ing a life outside of their observers and no estab- do. As if they are powerless Russian interference, Hillary Clinton conceded gra- A small moment in his- own. And, at first, it made lished process by which to and cannot create change ciously to Mr. T. tory that would have no ef- me angry. question or contest. Na- no matter how hard they Then President Barack Obama did not make any fect or plague over this In 2016, I became pres- tionally, political cam- try. But one year at Howard attempts to thwart a smooth transition of power. De- country. ident – of the Class of paigns have an army of University completely re- nise Turner Roth was the General Services Admin- Since the beginning of 2019. It was my job to plan election observers and at- modeled my mindset. istration administrator when Trump won the 2016 his first cam- events and activities for torneys dispatched across Being surrounded by other election. paign, he my peers. I adamantly the country to make sure black students who experi- She said: “I was the GSA administrator under Pres- came across pushed for free events be- that all votes are counted enced the same thing let ident Barack Obama. On the day after the presiden- as childish cause I knew many stu- and that the democratic me know I wasn’t crazy. tial election in 2016, I ascertained that Donald and proudly dents didn’t have the extra process plays out. Not so Having professors who Trump had won. My determination was based on misinformed. money to pay. Yet when in the halls of many of the created lesson plans cen- several factors.” Records indicated those factors in- It was clear to this was proposed in a country’s K-12 schools tered around preparing me cluded Trump’s clear margin of victory and the me that his team meeting, the other where future leaders are to be a successful seeker of states validating the results. beliefs were students and the advisor trained. With no supervi- justice gave me enough Now in 2020, Mr. T cannot accept the fact that he ASHLEIGH rooted in the claimed it wasn’t realistic. I sor to petition to on my momentum to come home will not earn a second term to be president of this FIELDS misfortune wouldn’t let it go. As pres- campus, my observation is as a first-time voter who country. Mr. T, sadly but factually, it is what it is. of white priv- ident, I decided that if we that some minority stu- feels as though I am mak- You lost. ilege. couldn’t have an event dents simply lose forfeit- ing a difference. I am also There are those in the Republican Party who are He’s never had to ride the where the circumstances ing positions that could uplifted by the millions telling him it is over. Gov. Larry Hogan of Maryland bus. He’s never had to allowed every student to have bolstered their col- around the country who said: “Trump is making the U.S. look like a banana work a minimum wage job attend, we wouldn’t have lege applications with ad- showed up to make a state- republic.” Chris Christie, former governor of New where you’re treated well any at all. This standoff mirable positions in ment. Alone we may be si- Jersey and a Trump supporter said: “Quite frankly, below average. He didn’t brought me the title of a student government. lenced but collectively we the conduct of the president’s legal team has been a go to a Title 1 school with rebel. But, in my own eyes, It was then, on this small are dominant. Therein lies national embarrassment.” He made these comments a Republican principal I had just become a rev- level, that I realized the im- the lesson. on the ABC program “This Week.” Others like Sens. where a majority of the olutionary with a cause. portance of voting and To my fellow young Mitt Romney from Utah and Susan Collins from teachers are white and The next year, I joined how the spread of infor- leaders of all races and Maine have also made statements telling the pres- most of the students are student congress, which mation is the only way to socio-economic back- ident that his time is up. minorities. proposes events for the en- help combat voter sup- grounds, I say let’s stand It is slowly but surely becoming a reality to Mr. T The concept of having tire school through a dif- pression. So, I spent my firm and united. If we as in- and his loyalists that their sour grapes approach to less and wanting more has ferent advisor. I just knew last year at East Mecklen- dividuals continue to pro- contesting this election is not working. He is on the never crossed his mind. So, it was my chance for burg working on the school mote truth, equity and outside looking in and there is no chance. Bring on I don’t really blame him for change. However, I was newspaper writing about activism, change will Little Anthony and the Imperials so the outgoing acting in the manner that sadly disappointed. I soon stories I hoped would come. I know the journey president can hear that song, “I’m on the outside he does. When he won the came to realize that this broaden perspectives and doesn’t end after we vote, looking in.” 2016 election, I was sitting advisor seemed to hold the influence the minds of but it does allow us a Time is on the side of Joe Biden. The sand in the in a classroom at East same perspective as the privileged students and chance at another more in- hourglass is coming out which means this president Mecklenburg High School, previous one, but with staff. Yet, when I spoke to clusive reality. Knowing will have to make some alternative plans. He will a place I did not know even more control behind my advisor about writing that I positively contrib- have a change of address. would challenge me in the the scenes over student ac- articles on gentrification of uted to what the next four Now is the time for the current GSA administrator, way it did. The very place tivities and elections. And the Silver Oaks neighbor- years in America will look Emily W. Murphy, to ascertain that Biden won the that showed me why my there was no clear system hood near the campus, the like is justice enough for election. She can no longer stall and delay the inev- mother taught me that be- of checks and balances. school’s outrageous sus- me. itable which is Biden will be the next president of the cause I am Black, I have to There were some ques- pension rates and policies, Ashleigh Fields is a soph- United States of America. be twice as good. I had to tions about the posted re- or the implicit racial bias of omore at Howard Univer- Administrator Murphy, America is waiting. be able to communicate sults of campus elections, some of our administrators sity in Washington, D.C. James Ewers lives in New Orleans and a graduate of Johnson C. Smith University. JCSU and CMPD partner to fight crime By Ashley Mahoney and 2% increase in the sec- about any assistance they CMPD will also provide [email protected] ond). could provide, as well as additional surveillance for Johnson C. Smith Univer- According to CMPD data, the district attorney’s of- trouble spots through its sity’s Campus Police De- 112 violent crimes were re- fice. Cherry also reached Sky Tower and Mobile partment is taking a ported within a 1-mile vi- out to mental health offi- Camera Unit. holistic approach to ad- cinity of the school since cials at Atrium Health, JCSU opted for a remote Awesome Oranges! dressing vio- June 1. homeless shelters and fall semester due to the lent and petty “We had somewhat of a food banks. The goal was COVID-19 pandemic with Grove crime in the rise of violent crime in the to create a team that could the intention of bringing Navels area. area very, very close to address and prevent crime. students back on campus That starts JCSU—the side streets “We are going to ramp up for in-person instruction with looking within this area – so much our presence in the area,” for the spring semester. Petite Red Navels for every op- so that we had to get in- Cherry said. “We are going Prior to their leaving, portunity to volved,” Cherry said. “And to increase staffing levels. Cherry noticed increased positively en- in one instance had to We are going to bring in the student complaints about render aid to victims and bike team from CMPD to being harassed in the Tangerines Cherry gage com- munity for help identify possible sus- us, while at the same neighborhood – particu- JCSU Campus Police De- pects in the case, and it time mental health and larly over the last year. partment Chief Jermain also led up to arrests. That homeless shelter officials “We want to put some- ONLY Cherry. It also includes col- is what spurred me to start are going to engage indi- thing in play now to at Petite Navel 99* laborating with the Char- talking to our partners viduals in the area who are least get started with ad- $19 lotte-Mecklenburg Police about what we can do miti- suffering from mental ill- dressing it so that the cam- Special limited Department to reduce gate that.” ness or lack of housing and pus community would time offer! crime in the area surround- Cherry met with CMPD food. It is going to be a know that this issue is on administration at the Metro multifaceted approach. the radar and here are SAVE $15! ing campus, as well as High In JCSU’s off-campus proper- Division station on Beatties While we are doing what some of the things we are Reg. Price $34.99 Vitamin C ties. Ford Road, less than 2 we are doing on the en- doing to address it,” he CMPD’s third quarter miles from JCSU, to dis- forcement side, they at the said. “Our students, faculty Call 1-888-802-0489 to order item 496X public safety report for cuss potential strategies. very same time will be and staff deserve to move or Visit HaleGroves.com/MN122 2020 shows an 11% in- He spoke with officials reaching out to individuals about the community with- * Only $19.99 (reg. $34.99) plus $5.99 shipping and handling per pack to 48 crease in violent crime (5% from the Mecklenburg who need assistance in out fear of being harassed contiguous states. Some restrictions may apply. IC: HNVH-N122 increase in the first quarter County Sheriff’s Office other areas.” or falling victim to crime.” The Charlotte Post SportPAGEs 5A THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2020

ASHLEY MAHONEY | THE CHARLOTTE POST LaMelo Ball's passing skill and size puts him in position to play in multiple lineups for the Hornets, who drafted him third in last week's NBA draft. Why LaMelo’s the fellow ’ top pick adds playmaking skill and recognizable name to roster in need of pizazz By Herbert L. White “I feel like I fit anywhere real good, and it’s a pick-up game. They all are playing for and just a high-level kid. First of all, [he’s [email protected] definitely the point forward I feel like could money, they want to win a spot, they want a] top tier playmaker with size, versatility,

work because it’s definitely positionless to win a game, so they’re playing for real. can make plays for others. To me what the LaMelo Ball fits neatly into every box for now,” he said last week. “You And you’re talking about guys anywhere league is nowadays is playmakers, at the the Charlotte Hornets. can just get in and go, so Mitch is definitely from 22 to 38 years old. So, yeah it tells guard spot, at the wing spot. Guys that can

Their top draft pick can play three posi- saying the right stuff.” you something. It gives you an indication make plays for others, make the right play. tions and his passing skill should demand Another selling point, Kupchak, said, is to some degree that he can compete and He makes it look effortless, he’s a hell of a he gets opportunities to play in multiple Ball’s maturity, honed after two years of that he can hold his own against grown talent. I’m thrilled to have him, and I think lineups, a critical asset in today’s NBA. professional competition against players men – which is what he’s going to be facing he fits our style of play. …I think it’s a heck“ Charlotte general manager Mitch Kupchak twice his age. in the NBA. of a pick for our franchise, for our organi- said Ball’s flexibility made him an attrac- “To play against grown men in Lithuania Said head coach : “We love zation, for our city.” tive prospect at guard or wing. The 6-7 Ball and in Australia, that tells you something,” the pick. We’ve studied him a tremendous Ball, the third pick overall, joins a young agrees. Kupchak said. “To those guys, it’s not like amount, I got to see him last week in LA Please see LAMELO | 6A I pretty much want to work on everything, not really bottle cap anything, so I can just be an all-around player. Charlotte Hornets guard LaMELO BALL Versatile“ and athletic best describe 2020 draft class By Ashley Mahoney The Ball name is well known in the NBA. guard positions as well as small forward. play. …I think it’s a heck of a pick for our [email protected] His older brother Lonzo plays While he enters the league with a reputa- franchise, for our organization, for our The Charlotte Hornets went for versatil- for New Orleans and his father Lavar Ball tion as a productive passer, Ball intends to city.” ity in the 2020 NBA Draft. claimed in recent years he would beat develop each aspect of his game. Ball played abroad the last two years, They finished with four players, includ- one-on-one. Jordan hap- “I pretty much want to work on every- most recently in Australia’s National Bas- ing a marquee name in guard LaMelo Ball, pens to be the Hornets owner. thing, not really bottle cap anything, so I ketball League with the Illawara Hawks, whom Charlotte selected third overall, fol- “I don’t think [the matchup] is going to can just be an all-around player,” he said. where he earned the Rookie of the Year lowed by second-round picks center Ver- happen, and I think we know how it would Said Hornets head coach James Borrego: award by averaging 17 points, 7.5 re- non Carey Jr. of Duke and College of turn out, to be honest,” LaMelo said. “That “To me what the league is nowadays is bounds, seven assists and 1.7 steals per Charleston guard at 32nd and is my pops and my boss, so I’m on both playmakers, at the guard spot, at the wing game in 12 games. Ball ranked second in 56th respectively. They also acquired Nick sides now.” spot. Guys that can make plays for others, the league in assists and steals and became Richards (42nd overall) from New Orleans Antics aside, the 6-foot-7 guard promises make the right play. [Ball] makes it look ef- the youngest player in NBL history to pro- in exchange for a second-round pick in to draw at the box office—pandemic per- fortless, he’s a hell of a talent. I’m thrilled duce a triple-double, with 32 points, 11 re- 2024. mitting—and has the potential to play both to have him, and I think he fits our style of Please see VERSATILE | 6A

Some relief NC Central for Panthers weighs league affiliations with defense North Carolina Central women’s and men’s basketball teams open their seasons next Wednesday as questions surround the future Third-down efficiency, of Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, and NCCU’s role in that future. QB pressuire are key Athletic director Ingrid Wicker McCree tried By Herbert L. White to answer those inquiries at last week’s board [email protected] of trustees meeting. Questions The are better when the were emailed to Wicker McCree defense is at its best. prior to the meeting for discus- Sunday’s 20-0 win against Detroit was sion. One that was on many peo- Carolina’s first shutout in five seasons and BRANDON TODD | CAROLINA PANTHERS ple’s minds was the future of the MEAC. improved them to 4-0 this season when lim- Carolina Panthers defensive ends Efe Obada (left) and Brian Burns sack Detroit quarterback iting opponents under 20 points. After giv- Wicker McCree said the confer- Matthew Stafford in the Panthers' 20-0 win Sunday at Bank of America Stadium. The shutout was ing up 46 points a week earlier in a loss to ence was actively seeking new Tampa Bay that earned a sharp rebuke from Carolina's first since a 38-0 victory against Atlanta in 2015. members, which would be a main topic of discussion at the athletic linebacker , they bounced special. We just have to do our jobs and “It was great,” said Burns, who has a team- BONITTA directors’ meeting later this week. back in a big way to snap a five-game losing guys went out there and they did their jobs best 6.0 sacks. “Throughout the week we She explained that with Division BEST streak. and did them well.” were preaching details, we were preaching I-FCS conferences focusing on be- “It is not easy to do in this league,” free Defensive end Brian Burns did especially execution, everybody doing their job at an coming more regionalized in the near future, safety Tre Boston said. “When you do it, it’s well with two of the Panthers’ five sacks, elite level and our preparation really the MEAC has the opportunity to pick up some a blessing. It attests to the hard work that five tackles, four quarterback hits and a showed today. Man, we just had a lot of fun schools between Delaware and South Car- you put in, week in, week out. Especially like pass defensed. Carolina’s pass rush, which out there, to be honest.” olina. [defensive coordinator Joe Brady] just got outside of Burns has struggled at times this While Burns was good, he was far from That led, of course, to the biggest question done saying, last week we got it handed to season, beat up on Lions quarterback the sole defensive lineman to stand out. Fel- of the morning: NCCU’s status in the MEAC. It us and this week we came back out under- Matthew Stafford and limited him to 18-of- low end Efe Obada racked up 1.5 sacks and was obvious Wicker McCree didn’t want to go standing that, we don’t have to do anything 33 passing for 178 yards. Please see A RELIEF |6A into much detail – probably because she knew « CIAA BASKETBALL I was listening in – but a couple of trustees didn’t give her much choice. The MEAC’s sponsorship of sports is “at a bare minimum and that’s a concern,” she said. CIAA schedules hoops tip off for January The cancellation of cross country, along with schools opting out of the spring season en- By Ashley Mahoney specifically men’s and women’s bleheaders. However, the league in Washington, D.C. on Nov. 25 tirely, is hurting student- athletes, she contin- [email protected] basketball, on Jan. 9, 2021. The cited health and safety as their at 5 p.m. The Lions’ non-confer- ued. NCCU needs to add another women’s The CIAA unveiled its men’s 16-game conference schedule in- decision to move to split sched- ence schedule also includes sport to be Title IX compliant, but the MEAC and women’s basketball 2020-21 cludes 10 division and six cross- ules to finish the regular season games at Syracuse on Dec. 2, at doesn’t sponsor the sport they’re considering. regular season schedule today. division games. Regular season with division play scheduled to Saint Joseph’s on Dec. 13, at “If we don’t have the sports, then athletes The NCAA Division II confer- play runs through Feb. 20, with open on Jan. 28. Delaware State on Dec. 16 and can’t play.” ence announced in October that the cross-divisional component However, Lincoln (Pa.) has non- the home opener on Jan. 4 When pushed about the possibility of NCCU the league’s board of directors ending on Jan. 25. conference games on its sched- against Washington Adventist. leaving the conference, Wicker McCree said and Athletic Directors Associa- Cross-divisional games will ule, with the women set to open Johnson C. Smith will travel to tion voted to begin winter sports, feature men’s and women’s dou- the season at George Washington Please see CIAA | 6A Please see NC CENTRAL | 6A 6A SPORTS | The Charlotte Post Thursday, November 26, 2020 Versatile and athletic best describe 2020 draft class Continued from page 5A to adjust to the pace of the professional level, bounds and 13 assists versus the Cairns but after that it is time to lock in, as preseason Taipans. Then he wrote his name in the NBL starts on Dec. 11, followed by the regular sea- history books again, becoming the fourth son on Dec. 22. player in league history and first since 2005, “Just gotta get going, because the season is to record back-to-back triple-doubles (25 about to be here,” he said. points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists against Charlotte went for another big man in the ). He also played in Richards, who spent three seasons at Ken- eight games for Lithuania’s LKL, averaging 6.5 tucky. The 6-foot-11 center left the Wildcats points and 2.4 assists in 2017-18 before re- ranked third in program history in career field turning stateside to the Junior Basketball As- goal percentage at 62.8%. Last season he av- sociation in 2018, winning the championship eraged 14 points per game, 7.8 rebounds and with the Los Angeles Ballers and earning All- 2.1 blocks, earning All-SEC first team and SEC Star accolades. There he averaged 39.6 points all-defensive team. He led the SEC and was per game, 14.6 boards and 11.5 assists. The fourth in the nation in percentage NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL ATHLETICS league was established by his father. at 64.4%. He also ranked second in the SEC in North Carolina Central athletics is weighing its options regarding future conference af- “I’ve been all over the world,” Ball said. “All blocks and third in rebounds. filiations as the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference sheds membership. Three schools – the spots I went to, I feel like I learned some- Amid the pandemic, he has been working North Carolina A&T, Florida A&M and Bethune-Cookman – are leaving June 30. thing. It definitely helped a lot.” out four times per day. Said Hornets general manager Mitch “Twice on court, [and] sometimes I would Kupchak: “To play against grown men in go in the weight room with my strength coach Lithuania and in Australia, that tells you and just get in there for another hour,” NC Central weighs its something. “To those guys, it’s not like it’s a Richards said. “That’s basically my schedule pick-up game. They all are playing for money, for about six days a week.” they want to win a spot, they want to win a Richards joins former Kentucky teammate league affiliation options game, so they’re playing for real.” forward P.J. Washington, which he believes Carey comes to Charlotte from Duke, where will help in adjusting to the team and the city. Continued from page 5A there), William & Mary, Drexel, etc. The he played a single season. There the 6-foot- Riller, a 6-foot-3 guard, earned All-Colonial there were four conferences they CAA is the crème of the FCS football 10 center/power forward earned U.S. Basket- Athletic Association first team selection over would consider: crop, and “the budgets are very high,” ball Writers Association Freshman of the Year, his last three seasons, as well as earning a 1.Atlantic Sun Conference, headquar- Wicker McCree said. ACC Rookie of the Year, All-America second spot on the all-rookie team. He left the tered in Georgia, and comprised of nine Now, again, nobody said the Eagles team, All-ACC first team and all-freshman. He Cougars ranked second in program history teams from Kentucky, Georgia, Florida, are leaving the MEAC tomorrow, but it’s produced 17.8 points, 8.8 rebounds and 1.6 with 2,474 points (third in league history). He Virginia, Tennessee and Alabama. obvious the administration is exploring blocks per game while finishing second in the averaged 18.7 points per game, 3.3 rebounds However, the ASUN does not sponsor other options, which they would be conference with 15 double-doubles. From the and 2.8 assists over his career with the football (teams play in other confer- crazy not to. Wicker McCree said a field he shot 57.7% and 38.1% from the three- Cougars. Last season he scored 21.9 points ences as football-only members), but presentation will be made to the board point line. per game. Wicker McCree said officials want to in January. “We will be ready to do Carey was the only ACC player to rank in Coming from a mid-major program, he add the sport and is aggressively pur- what we need to do.” the top 10 in field goal percentage, which he knows what it is like to be the underdog, and suing HBCUs. As stated previously, the athletics de- led the conference in, scoring (third), re- has no problem with it. 2. The Big South Conference has al- partment has suffered a $2.8 million bounding (fourth) and blocks (sixth). His “[Charlotte] is getting a guy who can do a ready snagged MEAC schools’ Hamp- decrease. Furloughs, she said, were in- biggest adjustment has been dropping lot with less,” Riller said. “In college, I had a ton and North Carolina A&T, which stituted across the board to “save our weight—30 pounds to be exact. He went from lot on my plate. A lot of the time, you could leaves after this season. student-athletes.” 270 in college to 240 now. see certain things that you probably won’t see 3. The Southern Conference is one of On a side note, Wicker McCree ad- “Just eating better, that was one of the in the future. I think I bring a lot to the table the stronger FCS football conferences monished the media as being “very ag- things [I did to lose weight], and hiring a chef that I did in college—a guard that puts a lot with Furman, Wofford, East Tennessee gressive” in our reporting. She called after finishing the season—that’s it really,” of pressure on the defense, is good in transi- State and Tennessee at Chattanooga. out HBCU Gameday for reporting on Carey said. “Me losing the pounds definitely tion, is an exciting type of player, but more They are also quite expensive. While Norfolk State’s recent board meeting, increased my athleticism, mobility to guard importantly I think Charlotte is getting a good the MEAC requires a $250,000 depar- forcing the AD to comment on things guards and switching, things like that.” human and a very good teammate that will ture fee, the SoCon’s entry fee is she wasn’t ready to comment on. Carey said he will give himself a day or two represent the team and the city well.” $650,000, she said. I guess we all should just sit by the 4. The granddaddy of the four is the phone and wait for it to ring instead. Colonial Athletic Association, which is Bonitta Best is sports editor at The Tri- LaMelo Ball brings playmaking composed of James Madison (‘nuff said angle Tribune in Durham. skills and big name to Charlotte Independence’s Valentin Continued from page 5A “Definitely,” Ball said. “I love transition. I team that was playing its best basketball would love that the team would be in transi- Sabella ready for next step when the coronavirus prematurely ended the tion, and I feel like it’s going to be fun this By Ashley Mahoney the playoffs with a 2-1 loss to Hornets’ season. The starting backcourt of year.” [email protected] Charleston, Sabella’s season was a and Devonte Graham return, but In a draft in which there was no consensus Valentin Sabella is in prime position bright one. Jeffries utilized him more Ball is a bigger option at guard and can move top prospect, Ball was in the mix as the No. 1 for a breakout season. as a midfielder than at forward, credit- out to small forward and make plays. Ball’s pick along with Anthony Edwards of Georgia, Check his Instagram on any given ing how much the young player bought NBA-ready passing assets opens new possi- who went to Minnesota and Memphis’ James day and you will see the Charlotte In- into what was asked of him and how bilities in Charlotte, where Borrego is putting Wiseman, who was picked by Golden State. dependence midfielder putting in off- much he worked on his right foot dur- emphasis on picking up the pace offensively Ball isn’t stressed about winding up with season work back in Miami. He rose ing quarantine and the shortened sea- and creating mismatches through versatility. Charlotte, which also drafted a pair of centers from the UPSL to the USL Champi- son. “He’s a guy that can at his posi- in Vernon Carey Jr. and Nick Richards as well onship in 2019, impressing the Inde- “He dealt with the change in position tion,” Borrego said. “He’s got size, he’s a great as College of Charleston point guard Grant pendence staff after the Florida Soccer and what was being asked of him really outlet guy, he can bring it on his own, he sees Riller. Soldiers knocked the Jacks out of the well,” Jeffries said. the floor, his kick ahead game is elite. He’s “I definitely feel great falling [to] them,” he Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in the sec- With the addition of Charlotte FC to going to start a number of our fast breaks. said. But the way I’ve fallen down, I never ond round. the Charlotte soccer landscape, the The ball’s going to be in all of our guys hands, looked at it like that because, like I say, what- Sabella was 19 when he signed his possibility of players moving up the it’s not just going to be in LaMelo’s, it’s going ever happens, happens, and I feel like it’s first professional contract, which the ranks locally is up for discussion. While to be in Devonte’s, Terry’s, Miles [Bridges], P.J. God’s plan. So, wherever He wanted to put Independence have taken the option the USL attracts players who are in the [Washington]. This is an offense where the me, that’s where He put me, and I feel like on during the offseason. twilight of their career, youngsters like ball is moving – he’s an elite ball mover, he He’s going to let me blossom there.” “Next year is an important year for Sabella have a unique opportunity to wants to share the ball, move the ball.” him,” coach Mike Jeffries said. develop and get onto MLS sides’ radar Sabella scored two goals during the before the expansion team kicks off in condensed regular season. The second 2022. came in the regular season finale at “He can definitely push himself to the rival North Carolina FC late in stoppage next level,” Jeffries said. time to put the Jacks ahead. The left- In addition to taking the option on footed attacking player found the back Sabella, two Independence players CIAA announces basketball schedule of the net off his right foot outside the have multi-year contracts: goalkeeper box to clinch Charlotte’s first home Brandon Miller’s deal keeps him here Continued from page 5A on Jan. 9 at 5 p.m. to open con- continue to work with Baltimore playoff match in club history and first through 2021 and striker/midfielder Lincoln for its conference opener ference play. to ensure safety protocols are met place in Group G at 8-4-4 for 28 points. Enzo Martinez’s contract runs through on Jan. 9 at 2 p.m. The tournament remains sched- throughout the season and dur- While the fairytale ended quickly in 2022. The Lions men opened play uled for Feb. 22-27 in Baltimore ing the tournament. with a 99-78 win at home against after a 15-year run in Charlotte, To view the full women’s sched- Salem. Their remaining non-con- where the league is headquar- ule: https://theciaa.com/calen- ference schedule includes hosting tered. dar.aspx?path=wbball Bluefield State on Nov. 23, at Mor- The league and member institu- To view the full men’s schedule: Follow The Post on social media gan State on Dec. 1, at Saint tions are monitoring the COVID- https://theciaa.com/calendar.asp Peter’s on Dec. 4, at Salem on Dec. 19 pandemic and will adapt to x?path=mbball 12 and hosting Washington Ad- federal, state, local, NCAA and ventist on Jan. 6. They host JCSU campus guidelines. They will also Snapchat A relief for Panthers with defense Continued from page 5A do you get off the field on third ball. You’re not worried about recovered a fum- down? You make the plays; you anything that goes wrong, be- Twitter ble, Carolina’s 13th takeaway this get off the field on third down.” cause you’re just having fun, just season and the 10th straight Said Burns: “We put a lot of em- getting back to the game.” game they managed at least one phasis on details and that was With the shutout – the seventh turnover. They even managed to one of our main problems. We re- in franchise history and first since win on third down, an area of ally solved that today and we Dec. 13, 2015 in a 38-0 romp at concern throughout the season, showed it. To be honest, every- Atlanta – Carolina will look to by limiting Detroit to 3-of-14. one was just playing, just having build on it. Defensively, it means Facebook “That’s what we have been say- fun. You play your best ball when winning on third down, for ing to our guys: ‘hey, there are you are having fun. When you’re starters. going to be opportunities,” Car- beating up on somebody else, “I think it gives us confidence,” olina coach Matt Rhule said. “How that’s when you play your best strong safety said.