It’s a wonderful life for Hester Ford, who marked her 116th birthday at her home, surrounded by family and friends. Lots of family and friends. TheThe CharlotteCharlotteTHE VOICE Post PostOF THE BLACK COMMUNITY SINCE 1906 WEEK OF AUGUST 20, 2020 VOLUME 46, NUMBER 50 WWW.THECHARLOTTEPOST.COM $1.50 Off death row with repealed NC law By Herbert L. White [email protected] The Racial Justice Act has new life beyond its repeal. The North Carolina Supreme Court ruled 4-3 on Aug. 14 to com- mute Marcus Robinson’s death sentence to life without parole, a first for the state under the RJA, which was rescinded in 2013. The justices found that evidence supported the plain- tiffs’ claim that racial bias is often part of capital trials, involv- ing Black defendants up to intentionally ex- cluding Blacks from Hill JOEBIDEN.COM juries. In the majority opinion, Chief Justice Cheri Beas- U.S. Sen. and Democratic vice presidential candidate Kamala Harris has generated excitement among Black North Carolinians, says U.S. Rep. G.K. ley pointed to an “egregious legacy Butterfield, especially in the historically Black college and university community. Harris is a graduate of Howard University, an HBCU in Washington, of the racially discriminatory appli- D.C. North Carolina has 12 Black colleges, the most of any state in the country. cation” of the death penalty, writ- ing: “equal protection to all must be given—not merely promised.” The court found that returning Robinson, a Cumberland County Harris candidacy energizes resident, to death row despite “overwhelming evidence” ev- idence of racial bias violates the state constitution. The court ruled that he serve life without parole in- NC’s HBCU community stead. “Robinson’s claims under the RJA do not negate or diminish his guilt As a Black college grad, VP candidate has unique appeal in battleground state or the impact of his crimes on the By Herbert L. White victim’s family, the victim’s Biden named Harris as his running mate, to a more perfect union,” Butterfield said friends, and the community,” Beas- [email protected] students and alumni of Historically Black during a virtual meeting of HBCU sup- ley wrote. “Rather, the Act ensured U.S. Sen. Kamala Harris is creating a Colleges and Universities as well as porters Saturday. “John Lewis used to that even those who commit the buzz in North Carolina. members of the “Divine Nine” predomi- talk about it all the time. I’m excited most serious offenses are entitled Harris, the first Black and nantly Black sororities and fraternities about her being on the ticket, in particu- to a trial and sentencing free from Asian woman to run for are paying closer attention to the race lar I look forward to campaigning with racial discrimination.” vice president on a major and its historic implications. Harris, a her, but she has this network. I knew that The state Supreme Court in June political party’s ticket, is in- graduate of Howard University, an HBCU network was there, but I didn’t really, cleared a path for review of racial jecting new interest in in Washington, D.C., is a member of the really know it was there until after the discrimination in death penalty Democratic presidential majority-Black Alpha Kappa Alpha soror- announcement.” cases with a 6-1 decision that Black candidate Joe Biden’s cam- ity. There are 12 HBCUs in North Caro- Butterfield, a former state Supreme defendants Rayford Burke and An- paign among Black voters, lina – the most of any state. Court justice who earned undergraduate drew Ramseur were entitled to said U.S. Rep. G.K. Butter- “These students and these alumni of and law degrees at historically Black present evidence that prosecutors Butterfield field, who represents the these schools can look at Harris and North Carolina Central University in Dur- willfully excluded African Ameri- northeastern part of the beam with pride and know that we are ham, said Harris opens new doors for cans from their juries and racial state. A little more than a week after continuing to make progress in America Please see HARRIS | 2A bias tainted their trials. The court also ruled death row inmates who Please see RACIAL | 2A A new name for Small housing authority business schoarship fund grants still By Herbert L. White [email protected] The Charlotte Housing Authority Scholarship Fund available has a new name. The grant program for college-bound students liv- By Herbert L. White ing in subsidized housing is now Greater Steps [email protected] NATIONAL NEWSPAPER PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION Scholars, but its mission remains the same with fi- There’s still time to apply for nancial aid and mentoring. The goal is to help colle- President Donald Trump has held funding for the U.S. Postal Service, which critics say Charlotte’s small-business capital gians become independent and self-reliant members will hinder its ability to deliver packages as well as election ballots. grants. of the community. Applications for the city’s Open The name change is the result of three years of for Business Access to Capital feedback from organization stakeholders, including Trump administration Small Business Recovery grants are students, board members, partner organizations, available until Aug. 30 at 5 p.m. alumni, and donors. They were interviewed to better and expanded to include entrepre- understand perceptions of the scholarship program slammed over US Postal neurs who have received funding as well as the possibility of increasing engagement from the Paycheck Protection Pro- and support. The housing authority changed its gram, Golden LEAF, the city’s Micro name to Inlivian last year, which provided impetus Service budget slashing Business Relief Fund or other gov- for the scholarship fund. ernment sources. Businesses that “We learned two crucial points in our research,” By Stacy M. Brown to the COVID-19 emergency, the have already applied don’t need to said Aisha Strothers, the program’s executive direc- do it again. tor. “The first was a misconception among prospec- NATIONAL NEWSPAPER PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION post office would not fund operat- President Donald Trump has made Through the most recent round tive and current donors that the fund is part of ing expenses without borrowing no secret of his desire to dismantle of grants, the city gifted $3.8 mil- Inlivian and therefore, receives government funding. money. the United States Postal Service or lion to 362 small businesses im- We have a great partnership with Inlivian, and our “They have withheld that money. revamp the agency in a way that has pacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. programming benefits students living in Inlivian- They have broken the law,” Con- angered Democrats and others who In total, the program has given managed residences, but we are separate entities gressional Black Caucus Chair Karen said it’s a tactic to prevent mail-in more than $8 million to 753 small and rely solely on individual and private-sector sup- Bass told BlackPressUSA during a li- voting for the upcoming election. businesses. port. Another discovery was that many current stu- vestream interview last month. The CARES Act passed in April au- “We started by addressing the dents and alumni felt the former name was a Other Democratic lawmakers, in- thorized the postal service to bor- needs of small business owners mismatch for the aspirational and inspirational na- cluding Sen. Sherrod Brown (D- row up to $10 billion from the who were really struggling with no ture of the program.” Ohio), Rep. Bobby Scott (D-Va.), and Treasury Department for operating Rep. Hank Johnson (D-Ga.), also told other assistance, and now we are Please see 2A NEW NAME | expenses if it determines that, due Please see USPS|2A Please see SMALL | 2A INSIDE Digital edition: Please STAY IN TOUCH 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, August 20, 2020 Harris excites Black New name for scholarship Continued from page 1A “Greater Steps Scholars has grown from Greater Steps Scholars was launched in simply providing partial 1983 by John Crawford, who was the scholarships to offering a college community housing authority’s youth wrap-around service of services coordinator. Craw- one-on-one mentors, On The Net Continued from page 1A number of whom are Black,” Brooks ford and a friend pooled connections to intern- www.great- women in politics as well as students said. “Student debt intensifies and re- their resources to help a col- ship opportunities, and ersteps.org at HBCUs and minority-serving insti- sults from the racial wealth gap. Al- lege student pay a $300 bill workshops that teach stu- tutions, with Biden pledging to pump most one in 10 Americans in their 40s to return for his senior year, dents the financial and soft $70 billion in infrastructure and stu- and 50s still hold student loan debt, sparking an idea to help sim- skills needed to be successful,” dent financial aid programs if elected. but college debt has especially im- ilarly situated people of lim- Strothers said. “Steps lead you out, but Another appeal for college graduates pacted millennials, who pursued edu- ited means. Since 1984, the Greater Steps lead you up, and the new and families’ votes is a debt forgive- cational opportunities during the Crawford foundation has awarded 940 name better showcases the opportunity ness initiative to eliminate a minimum height of the Great Recession and now scholarships totaling $3.8 and impact the program provides for its $10,000 in loans. struggle to pay down their student million, including 95 for the 2020-21 ac- scholars while retaining its sense of “There were 12 women considered loans instead of buying a house, ademic year. pride.” – six of the 12 were African American opening a business or setting aside women – and Kamala Harris rose to money for retirement.” the top,” Butterfield said. “The minute As the Democrats wrap up their na- Small business grants available it was announced, the sororities and tional convention Thursday, Butter- fraternities and the HBCU alumni as- field believes Blacks and women will Continued from page 1A ployees. The businesses within the Charlotte city sociation; grassroots organizations all turn their enthusiasm for Harris into including those businesses must be headquartered in limits across our state in particular, but all votes. that are in need of ad- Charlotte and must have • Employ 25 or fewer across the country, you could literally “I supported Hillary Clinton and ditional help,” City Council been affected by the pan- employees (including part- feel [the excitement].” traveled all over the country for her member James Mitchell demic. Businesses ranging timers, if it’s reported on Cassandra Brooks, a North Carolina many times [in the 2016 cycle], but said. “We’re finding that from convenience stores the company’s W-3) A&T State University alumnus who the energy that you will see in a Biden- the need is great and one and restaurants to hair sa- • Have been established earned undergraduate and graduate Harris campaign will be superior to grant payment is some- lons and florists have been before Jan. 1, 2020 degrees at the Greensboro school, any campaign in modern history, in- times not enough to keep awarded grants. • Have been affected by said she supports Biden’s pledge to al- cluding Obama-Biden,” he said. these small businesses “When schools first shut the COVID-19 pandemic leviate student debt, which has risen “You're going to see a turnout in this going.” down, it was really tough • Have gross sales for to $1.5 trillion among 44 million bor- election greater than the Obama turn- Applications and eligibil- for us, because school 2019 between $30,000-$2 rowers. out in 2008. That is my prediction, ity requirements are avail- translations make up a million “One in five adults who hold student really.” able at large part of our business,” • Not be involved in loans are behind on payments, a big fftc.org/CLTCityGrant. said Ron Ponton, owner of bankruptcy The program aims to dis- PSquared Linguistics, Grants will be issued tribute $30 million in fed- which received a $10,000 every two weeks and appli- eral CARES Act money to grant. “Thankfully, the Ac- cations will be selected small businesses. Founda- cess to Capital Small Busi- randomly by a software al- tion For The Carolinas is ness Recovery Grant will gorithm from the applicant Racial Justice Act appeal the administrator and help me keep my dream pool for review and are not grant-making partner. alive. The extra financial reviewed on a first-come, Continued from page 1A and Christina Walters were whether the state should The grants, which don’t cushion will allow me to first-served basis. The like- filed claims under the RJA the only death row inmates still have the right to carry have to be repaid, are dis- keep my office and staff lihood of receiving a grant before its repeal to present to have hearings under the out executions.” persed in increments of running for when things increases with an earlier their evidence in court. Racial Justice Act before In addition to study find- $10,000 for businesses open back up to normal.” application because it will The case was decided the law was repealed. All ings of bias, the defen- with five or fewer employ- Qualified small busi- be available for selection under the state constitu- four won their appeals and dants revealed ees and $25,000 for those nesses must: daily. Businesses only need tion, which can’t be ap- Cumberland County Su- prosecutors’ notes refer- between six and 25 em- • Be headquartered to apply once. pealed to a federal court. perior Court Judge Gregory ring to jurors with deni- “This is one of the most Weeks in 2012 resentenced grating terms like “blk important decisions I’ve them to life without parole wino” and training materi- ever seen from our state after finding systemic ex- als showing prosecutors USPS reductions criticized Supreme Court,” said clusion of Black jurors were instructed to invent Continued from page 1A Ardoin (R), Michigan Secre- are fundamental to the Gretchen Engel, executive tainted their trials. race-neutral reasons to BlackPressUSA that the tary of State Jocelyn Ben- functioning of the postal director of the Durham- The RJA led to a state- strike Black jurors from president is trying to dis- son (D) and Ohio Secretary service. Meanwhile, mail based Center for Death wide study showing prose- serving. mantle the postal service. of State Frank LaRose (R) delivery is slowing down Penalty Legislation. “It cutors dismissed Black After repeal of the RJA, Trump has steadfastly joined in signing the letter. under other decisions seems that Justice Beasley jurors from capital trials at the state Supreme Court opposed funding the “State and local election made by DeJoy, such as and her colleagues intend 2.5 times the rate as overturned Weeks’ ruling postal service. officials are busy planning eliminating overtime for to make good on the prom- whites. The disparity was on procedural grounds, Despite recently voting for the November general postal workers,” the organ- ise that no person should found to be driven by race ruling the hearings should with his wife by mail in a election, and many expect ization wrote in a state- be executed if race was a as opposed to other factors have been held separately Florida primary election, an increase in the use of ment. factor in their death sen- such as personal views on rather than combined and the president said he’s absentee and mail ballots, The U.S. Inspector Gen- tence. This is a critical capital punishment. prosecutors should have against mail-in voting. along with other election- eral opened an investiga- issue of racial justice, both “It’s unthinkable that we had more time to prepare “Trump is not stupid. He related mailings,” the state tion into DeJoy’s policy for people on death row could amass a mountain of their case. knows if there is a decent- officials wrote. changes at the post office. and for African Americans evidence showing that race The court ordered new sized turnout in this elec- “We view the [USPS] as a According to some law- seeking to participate in plays a role in the North hearings and the defen- tion, he loses,” Sen. Bernie vital partner in administer- makers, those changes are our democracy. It’s heart- Carolina death penalty and dants were returned to Sanders (D-Vt.) wrote on ing a safe, successful elec- reportedly taking a toll on ening to see the court rec- then just ignore it and re- death row, where they re- Twitter. tion and would like to learn military veterans who are ognizing that fact, in all its turn to executing people,” mained after a Superior “He and his friends be- more about any planned experiencing much longer difficulty and complexity, said Henderson Hill, an Court judge ruled they lieve they can suppress the changes around USPS serv- wait times to receive mail- and taking bold action.” ACLU attorney from Char- were no longer entitled to vote by destroying the post ice due to COVID-19, prep- order prescription drugs. The decision marked the lotte who is part of the RJA appeals because the law office. We aren’t going to arations for increased Slowdowns at the post second time in three litigation. “The high court had been repealed. All four allow that to happen.” election-related mail, USPS office have reportedly also months the state Supreme declared that it’s unaccept- appealed to the state Su- Several postal workers staffing levels and process- resulted in seniors receiv- Court rejected attempts to able for North Carolina to preme Court, but the panel have reported the removal ing times, and other perti- ing their medications late void RJA hearings, which keep its head in the sand, has yet to decide on the of sorting machines at nent issues.” and other important mail allows death row inmates and we are grateful. It is Augustine, Golphin and postal facilities and the re- The postal service has like social security checks. to present evidence of ra- time for everyone in North Walters cases. moval of sidewalk mail- sent letters to warn 46 It has also angered those cial bias in capital cases. Carolina to ask themselves, “Our clients ended up in boxes. states that it could not who work for the agency. Robinson, Quintel Au- after decades of racially-bi- the ultimate Catch-22,” Postal officials reported guarantee all mail-in bal- Postal workers through- gustine, Tilmon Golphin ased prosecutions, Engel said. that in the last week, the lots cast for the November out the country have re- agency had removed letter election would arrive in ported low morale, and collection boxes in at least time to be counted. many have cited the ac- four states: New York, Ore- Some states, like Mary- tions of DeJoy, who was Charlotte, Urban League partner gon, Montana, and Indiana. land and Virginia, received appointed by Trump. On Postal workers in at least a “heightened warning” Aug. 14, the National Asso- three states – West Virginia, that the postal service ciation of Letter Carriers, a on renewable energy job training Florida, and Missouri – could not meet state-man- union that boasts nearly By Ashley Mahoney have received notification dated deadlines. 300,000 active and retired provide life-changing ca- careers that contribute to a that retail operating hours In response, a large postal workers, endorsed [email protected] reer opportunities for the greener economy and a also face reduction. group of protesters staged Democratic presidential The city of Charlotte residents in our com- more sustainable world. Removing mailboxes had a “noise demonstration” nominee Joe Biden. launched the Renewable munity most affected by We have had a long part- become a practice along on Saturday, Aug. 15, out- “Vice President Biden is, Energy and Efficiency COVID-19. Each graduating nership with the Urban marathon and parade side of Postmaster General was, and will continue to Workforce training pro- cohort is helping us de- League of the Central Car- routes since the 2013 Bos- Louis DeJoy’s home in be a fierce ally and de- gram to develop a work- velop a qualified workforce olinas, Inc. on training pro- ton Marathon bombing, Washington, D.C. fender of the United States force trained for a green well suited for an emerg- grams for technicians, and however, the latest remo- The demonstration was Postal Service, letter car- economy. ing, green economy.” look forward to working vals are believed inten- organized by the direct-ac- riers, and our fellow postal The RENEW training pro- The city will invest with the Urban League and tional and strategically tion group Shut Down D.C. brothers and sisters,” gram is a partnership be- $500,000 over a year into the City of Charlotte to ex- coordinated to impact the The organization said NALC President Fredric Ro- tween the city and the the program. Additional pand career readiness and election. they believe DeJoy is “dis- lando said in a statement. Urban League of the Cen- funding will be provided job placements through In response to the remo- mantling” the U.S. Postal “Together, Biden and tral Carolinas. from the CARES Act. They the RENEW program.” val of mailboxes and a Service in favor of Pres- [vice presidential running Program par- intend to recruit Charlotte Charlotte was one of 25 slowdown in the delivery ident Donald Trump’s re- mate] Sen. Kamala Harris ticipants will residents who have been cities to win the Bloomberg of mail, the National Asso- election. They said his fully exhibit the experi- become certi- displaced or otherwise Philanthropies American ciation of Secretaries of actions contribute to voter ence, dedication, thought- fied in heat- negatively impacted by the Cities Climate Challenge in State sent a letter to the suppression. fulness and steady hands ing, COVID-19 pandemic. 2018. The challenge is de- Postmaster General on “DeJoy has fired or re- that will work to ensure ventilation Thirty students will be signed to stimulate green Aug. 7. New Mexico Secre- assigned much of the exist- that letter carriers and and air con- trained and placed into the economies across U.S. tary of State Maggie Tou- ing USPS leadership and working families are put McDaniel ditioning for program’s first cohort in cities. louse Oliver (D), Louisiana ordered the removal of first.” entry-level September. “Fighting the climate cri- Secretary of State R. Kyle mail sorting machines that technician positions for ca- The program will also in- sis requires that we scale- reer opportunities in com- clude a Corporate Advisory up our clean energy future mercial and residential Council, consisting of local and invest heavily in our energy. Training will in- businesses in the energy workforce. There’s never clude renewable energy field. been a better time to bol- and energy efficiency. “The Urban League of ster opportunities and Trane Technologies as well Central Carolinas is excited pathways for people to as other companies in the to partner with the RENEW participate in the growing industry will provide pro- program,” Urban League of green econ- gram graduates with career Central Carolinas President omy,” said opportunities. A $15 an and CEO Teddy McDaniel Christina On The Net hour training stipend will said. “We provide state-of- Angelides, https://char- be provided to program the art training in HVAC director of lotteopenfor- participants during the 13- and sustainable technol- the Ameri- business.com/ week course organized by ogies to prepare Charlotte can Cities get virtual the Urban League of Cen- residents for a career in Climate Chal- tral Carolinas. Participants this high demand industry. lenge. “Charlotte’s RENEW back-to-school will have access to virtual The enhanced capacity of training program is exactly and hands-on training. the RENEW program will the type of smart, inclusive tutoring and “The RENEW Training allow us to provide suc- approach needed to get the reading help. Program is a fantastic city- cessful career paths for our economy humming community partnership,” clients who are in most again—it will no doubt Assistant City Manager need of these services dur- help build a brighter and Tracy Dodson, said in a ing this public health cri- stronger city. This is statement. “By working sis.” another example of the in- with the Urban League of Said Trane Technologies novative efforts the Amer- Central Carolinas and President and COO Dave ican Cities Climate Trane Technologies, the Regnery: “The HVAC in- Challenge is helping to City of Charlotte will use dustry is an excellent des- spearhead in cities across cmlibrary.org/calendar 704-416-0100 our CARES Act funding to tination for technical the U.S.”
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PFIZER-COVID-19_C4591001_FLYER-WTE_CHARLOTTEPOST10.63X20.75_V1.5_01AUG2020 4A NEWS & OP-ED | The Charlotte Post Thursday, August 20, 2020 TheThe CharlotteCharlotte PostPost Protect Americans’ right to vote The Voice of the Black Community In the 55 years since the in place in North Carolina forts and send out harmful thing we can to make ac- passage of the Voting until 1970 and removed falsehoods about absentee cess to the ballot box easier Gerald O. Johnson | CEO/PUBLISHER Rights Act of 1965, the ex- only when forced by the voting. and more fair. pansion and protection of Supreme Court) to restric- And now, as this election This year, as we honor [email protected] voting rights afforded by tive voter ID laws and elim- moves to voting from both the anniversary of the Robert L. Johnson | PUBLISHER/GENERAL MANAGER this landmark bill has ination of same-day home due to the Coronavi- Voting Rights Act and the never been fully realized in registration. rus, the Trump Admin- spirit of Rep. John Lewis, a [email protected] our state. In 2013, Republicans in istration is working to civil rights pioneer who Herbert L. White | EDITOR IN CHIEF As the na- North Carolina’s state dismantle the United States made this issue his life’s tion con- legislature voted unani- Post Office itself. work, I will not allow voter [email protected] tinues to mously to pass an uncon- We need a leader who suppression to continue to grapple with scionable anti-voting law, recognizes and stands up be the norm in North Caro- Published weekly by The Charlotte Post Publishing Company the COVID-19 requiring voter identifica- against attempts to dis- lina. I spoke out against the Inc., 5118 Princess Street, Charlotte, NC 28269 (USPS #965500). pandemic, tion but forbidding the enfranchise people, par- Republican-controlled Subscription is $65 per year. Periodicals postage paid at Char- our right to forms of ID most ticularly in communities of state legislature’s attempts lotte, NC. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Charlotte vote has ALMA frequently held by people color and especially amid to disenfranchise people of Post, PO Box 30144, Charlotte, NC 28230 never been of color. Ultimately, the the uncertainty of a pan- color, students, the elderly, more impor- ADAMS U.S. Court of Appeals demic. and low-income North Car- tant—or more struck down the law, but Joe Biden has called voter olinians in 2018, and I’ll endangered. the GOP tried again in identification require- continue to press Congress In North Carolina, dis- 2018. Again, they failed, as ments an "attempt to re- to act to restore the Voting criminatory voter regula- the North Carolina Court of press minority voting Rights Act in 2020. What tions plague our past and Appeals found that the law masquerading as an at- we need now is a president Medicare for All our present. From voter ID was intended to suppress tempt to end corruption." who will join me in the laws to gerrymandering, African Americans’ votes. He has advocated for sec- fight to ensure everyone in voting in North Carolina Our right to vote is ond chance opportunities our state can exercise their would reduce has never been treated as it threatened not only by Re- to allow those who have civic duty and constitu- should be: a fundamental publicans’ attempts to sup- been convicted of a crime tional right. right bestowed upon all cit- press voters, but also by and served their time the That president is Joe racial inequities izens of this country. In- the dangerous misinfor- chance to fully reintegrate Biden. stead, it has consistently mation coming from the into society. Unlike Donald Alma Adams represents The American healthcare system is expensive, in- been used as a tool to si- White House. President Trump, Joe Biden believes the 12th Congressional Dis- efficient, and plagued by racial inequities. The lence minority com- Trump continues to turn a voting is a right, and I trict in the U.S. House. COVID-19 pandemic shines a harsh spotlight on munities, evolving from blind eye to his party’s bla- couldn’t agree more. We those deficiencies, particularly for Blacks and other literacy tests (which were tant voter suppression ef- should be doing every- minorities. George Floyd’s murder has forced the country to give long overdue attention to finally establishing ra- Honor John Lewis by voting Nov. 3 cial justice. Now is the moment for us to definitively address healthcare, along I watched the homegoing became a hallmark and sig- We must vote in record most important election in with other critical issues of racial jus- services for John Lewis nature of John Lewis was numbers on Nov. 3. Our my lifetime. This will be a tice. with both sadness and de- the right to vote. Years friends, relatives and defining moment for us. The United States has performed dis- termination. Our nation later, our right to vote is neighbors must join in this Electing Obama was a mally compared to other developed has lost a civil rights icon. still being called into ques- effort. Our constant hue proud and historic mo- countries. With 4% of the world’s pop- John Lewis marched, was tion and marginalized. and cry must be that we ment for America. We ulation, we have had 25% of COVID-19 almost killed The House of representa- must vote. needed him. He was a vi- JESSICA cases. Cases and deaths rise at alarming and jailed for tives has introduced the We are marching and sionary for our nation, and SCHORR rates, while many other countries have wanting a John Lewis Voting Rights protesting now. However, he had some sense. You controlled the spread. In the U.S., Black SAXE better Amer- Act. these marches and pro- and I know what we have and Hispanic communities have borne ica. He As men and women of tests must turn into votes. now. We must show him the brunt of the impact with three times wanted an good will and right think- Yes, we must be relentless the exit. My brothers and the rate of infection and twice the rate of death. In America ing, we can not let the and tireless in our cause sisters of all stripes, we Mecklenburg County, Black people accounted for where all of memory and contributions because the enemy wants must get him out of the 40% of the deaths not connected to long-term care JAMES us would be of Congressman Lewis to disrupt voting. We know White House. facilities. treated fairly. fade away. This struggle who the enemy is. John Lewis has been laid The main difference between the U.S. and the more EWERS His America for fairness continues and Recently, the current ad- to rest in Atlanta, yet his successful countries is our lack of a national health meant op- this may still be the case ministration floated the hopes and dreams are still program with universal coverage and coordinated portunities for all of us, not after many of us are gone. idea of postponing elec- with us. They will never health planning. Several of our failures point out just some of us. President Barack Obama tions. This has never hap- leave us. We must pay him how improving and extending Medicare to everyone The boy from Troy lived used some of 2nd Corin- pened before in the history the highest honor by vot- might have helped with Covid-19, especially for for other people so that we thians, chapter 4 in his eu- of our country. He believes ing for a new America on Black people. could benefit from living in logy of Lewis last week. he is the king and we are Nov. 3. This America will Before the pandemic, millions of Americans were the greatest country in the This scripture says, “We his subjects. enact laws that are fair and already uninsured or underinsured (insured but un- world. At 23 years of age, are hard pressed on every If we want a better Amer- impartial. able to afford medical care), with Blacks dispropor- he was the youngest side, but not crushed; per- ica, then we must vote for This America will no tionately affected. Many people deferred testing or speaker at the March on plexed, but not in despair; a better America. Let us longer give approval to po- treatment for fear of expense. The is the precise op- Washington in 1963. And persecuted, but not aban- make America great again, lice brutality and will no posite of the response needed to protect us all. at 25 years of age, he led doned; struck down, but just without him. longer remain silent. John People who have been exposed or are feeling sick the march from Selma to not destroyed.” There are 90 days left be- Lewis blazed the trail. need to be tested so they can be treated and isolated. Montgomery. Lewis said at “Progress is fragile, and fore we cast our ballots for Now, we must follow it. Their contacts must be traced and quarantined as the March on Washington: democracy is not auto- the next president of the James Ewers, who lives in needed to prevent spread. Instead, many people are “We do not want our free- matic,” Obama said. A con- United States of America New Orleans, is a Johnson dying and suffering severe illness after delaying dom gradually, we want it sistent urging in each of and other offices. Four C. Smith University gradu- care. Many who tried to do the right thing and sought now.” his services was the impor- years ago, I realized that ate. testing and care were stuck with large bills. One of the freedoms that tance of voting. this election would be the The pandemic has worsened our pre-existing con- dition of insurance inadequacy. The surge in unem- «LETTERS ployment has predictably resulted in millions losing employer-based coverage. Many will remain unin- sured, especially in North Carolina and other states Fight cancer, honor survivors with donation that didn’t expand Medicaid. Even those eventually able to secure other insurance will suffer major dis- As a result of the pan- Lights of Hope Across September 12. top priority at the state and ruption as they navigate a new bureaucracy to ac- demic, American Cancer America event. I’m fundraising for this federal level. quire it and may be forced to change providers and Society Cancer Action Net- I’m blessed to be a five- beautiful tribute so ACS I’m lucky I don’t need to medications. work volunteers will not year survivor of colon and CAN may continue its mis- travel to make sure the This is the poison pill of our system: just when in- gather for the annual breast cancer and a proud sion advocating for every- voices of cancer patients dividuals most need health insurance and our coun- Lights of Hope ceremony advocate with the Ameri- one affected by cancer, and survivors are heard. I try most needs them to have it, it’s vanishes into the at the Lincoln Memorial in can Cancer Society Cancer including the estimated look forward to getting my ether. Washington, D.C., where Action Network. If cancer 59,620 North Carolinians neighbors, family Why have Black Americans suffered disproportion- tens of thousands of bags has also touched your life, who will receive a cancer members, and friends ac- ately from the COVID-19 pandemic? Multiple rea- are decorated and adorned you can make a difference diagnosis this year. ACS ross Charlotte involved in sons include inadequate insurance prior to the with the names of cancer through ACS CAN’s Lights CAN, the advocacy affiliate this heartfelt event. pandemic, loss of access due to loss of employment, survivors and those lost to of Hope Across America— of the American Cancer So- To purchase and ded- being essential workers, and having less ability to this horrible disease. a moving tribute to fight ciety works with law- icate a Lights of Hope bag, work from home. Black Americans are also more Instead, advocates will back against cancer. makers to pass policies visit my personal page at: likely to have underlying conditions that put them celebrate 10 years of hope Lights of Hope Bags fea- that help prevent cancer http://action.fight- at higher risk for complications or and death. These at home as part of a larger turing the names and pho- and ensure those who are cancer.org/goto/Donna- conditions are not due to genetics, but to racism, in- virtual event including tos of cancer survivors and diagnosed with the disease Marie_Woodson directly through its effects on education, economic right here in Charlotte, one those we’ve lost to cancer have access to the care DonnaMarie Woodson security, housing, and exposure to air pollution; and of the cities chose to be will be displayed coast to they need, as well as make Charlotte directly through the stress of racism itself. featured in the special coast for a virtual event on cancer research funding a Medicare is the most popular health insurance in the country. Black Americans should take particular pride in it, as Dr. Montague Cobb, president of the National Medical Association (NMA), led Black doc- NAACP sues US education chief tors in supporting Medicare, while the almost en- By Stacy M. Brown a lawsuit in federal court in ments are to distribute the of how many are Title I stu- tirely white American Medical Association opposed Washington, D.C., accusing fund based on the number dents. it. Because of the hard work of the NMA and the NATIONAL NEWSPAPER PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION DeVos of illegally changing of Title I, or low-wealth stu- “The rule is as immoral NAACP, hospitals had to integrate to accept Medicare the rules for allocating dents, in a particular as it is illegal,” NAACP law- money. The coronavirus pan- demic has focused the na- $13.2 billion in Coronavi- school. yers argue. Just as Medicare led to hospital integration in 1966, rus Aid, Relief, and Eco- Congress allowed CARES The NAACP filed the law- Medicare for All can be a major step toward elimi- tion’s attention on the essential role nomic Security, or CARES funds to go to institutions suit on behalf of a group of nating racism and racial inequities. With everyone in Act money to benefit that depend on tuition and parents and their children, the same system, everyone would be eligible for public schools play wealthy private K-12 donations because law- who are enrolled in eco- high-quality care. By cutting the connection with em- schools. makers said they recog- nomically disadvantaged ployment, no one would lose their coverage if they in families and com- “Recently, Secretary nized that some students public schools. The Pa- lost their job. Everyone could get care during a pan- DeVos issued regulations from low-income families sadena, California, Unified demic, protecting their health and that of the public. munities’ lives. that would force public attend private schools. School District, and Stam- People with high-risk conditions wouldn’t feel forced school districts to divert The lawsuit claims the ford, Connecticut, School to work just to keep their insurance. And everyone The NAACP DeVos said it’s also federal emergency relief share going to private District, joined the NAACP could get their necessary preventive or chronic ill- funds from public schools schools should have its in the lawsuit asking for an ness care, pandemic or not. exposed se- vere racial inequalities that and send them to private basis on the number of injunction to prevent It’s now more obvious than ever that our em- schools. By one estimate, Title I students attending DeVos from immediately ployer-based health system has failed us. As the pan- continue to plague the country’s education sys- over $1 billion would be those schools. instituting her change to demic has so harshly proved, it’s time for Medicare lost to private schools DeVos did not follow that the rule. for All. tem and disadvantaged students of color. under the rule,” Johnson rule, the NAACP contends, “In this moment of Dr. Jessica Schorr Saxe is a retired family physician declared. spelling out that hundreds crushing need for Amer- in Charlotte who is chair of Health Care Justice—NC. Rather than addressing those problems, NAACP “So, the NAACP filed a of millions of dollars in ica’s public schools, the Write her at [email protected]. lawsuit along with public CARES Act funds would im- Rule directs public school President Derrick Johnson declared that U.S. Secretary school families and school mediately divert from pub- districts to divert desper- of Education Betsy DeVos districts across the coun- lic schools to affluent ately needed CARES Act 1 “exploited the pandemic to try, challenging this unfair, private schools. funds to affluent students promote her personal unequal, and unjust rule. The controversial educa- in private schools or face agenda of funneling tax- We’ll fight this as hard as it tion secretary reportedly unlawful limitations on the Looking for the latest payer dollars to private takes – for as long as it holds a different interpre- way that those funds can schools and taking re- takes – to protect our stu- tation of how local school be spent – both in direct news affecting the sources away from the dents, schools, and com- districts should distribute contravention of the Act,” schools and the students munities.” the money. the lawsuit reads. “The African-American who need it most.” The NAACP’s lawsuit sug- Her interim final rule al- Rule harms American chil- “We simply can’t let this gests that the CARES Act, lows sharing the money dren and subverts the will community? happen. So, we’re taking which was signed by Pres- equally with private of Congress; it cannot her to court,” Johnson an- ident Donald Trump earlier schools based on the stand.” thecharlottepost.com nounced. this year, says explicitly number of students in The NAACP formally filed that local school depart- those schools, regardless By Ashley Mahoney open through Oct. 29. “There’s work going on right The Charlotte Post PAGE 5A [email protected] now on a couple of targets that Charlotte Charlotte FC will be busy over we think are very interesting,” the next three months. Tepper Sports and Entertain-
The Major League Soccer ex- ment President Tom Glick said. pansion franchise, as well as “That’s going to be a core focus FC open to other clubs, enters the league’s of what we do.”
secondary transfer window, Charlotte signed Spanish mid- which begins Aug. 12 – a day fielder Sergio Ruiz during the transfers after the MLS is Back Tourna- two-day transfer window in July. ment final between Portland and Sports “ He occupies one of their eight in- THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2020 Orlando. The window remains Please see WINDOW | 6A
For me, it’s just taking the time to go over Kelly makes a few things after practice,not rushing off the practice field, understanding that we scoring a “ have to make up for lost time. Panthers linebacker TAHIR WHITEHEAD celebration, statement Independence striker backs social justice cause By Ashley Mahoney [email protected] MATTHEWS—The USL Championship’s all-time leading goal scorer made a pow- erful statement in support of Black Lives Matter. When striker Dane Kelly scored the first goal at the Sportsplex at Matthews in 294 days to put the Charlotte Independence up 1-0 against the Charleston Battery, he did more than score his first home goal for the Jacks. He took a knee, and raised his fist to the sky. Kelly’s teammates en- gulfed him, not just in celebration, but in continued support of using their plat- forms as professional athletes to make a statement that Black Lives Matter to this team. The match ended 1-all, putting Charlotte in third with five points in Group G. “It was definitely something I told my- BRANDON TODD | CAROLINA PANTHERS self I’m going to do every time I score to Carolina Panthers linebacker Tahir Whitehead is adjusting to his new team in preparation for his ninth NFL season. “For me it’s represent Black Lives Matter and our just taking the time to go over a few things after practice, not rushing off the practice field, understanding that we have to make Black community,” Kelly said. “We as pro- fessionals have to take a stand, and if up for lost time,” he said. Whitehead, who is taking over the middle linebacker job for the retired Luke Kuechly, spent his first six others see us taking a stand, that shows a seasons with Detroit and the last two in Oakland before signing with the Panthers as a free agent. lot, and that’s a big statement. I feel really good about myself doing that.” Said defender Hugh Roberts: “I com- mend him, and I even show him a lot of respect for just doing that because a lot Whitehead in learning, of people still don’t even send a message. [His celebration] was very powerful.” Charlotte players have been taking a stand before social unrest spread across the country when George Floyd was killed by police in Minneapolis, Minnesota in leading frame of mind May. Roberts and goalkeeper Brandon Miller spoke out against the lack of action from the club’s front office in the imme- Veteran free agent signee adds experience to young Panthers defense diate weeks following Floyd’s death, and By Ashley Mahoney go over a few things after practice, and won’t play preseason games, the anti-Black Lives Matter tweets that [email protected] not rushing off the practice field, un- either. For experienced players like have come from Independence majority Football is as much about learning derstanding that we Whitehead, that means bringing the owner Dan DiMicco. They have also be- as leading for Tahir Whitehead. have to make up for lost newcomers up to speed quickly now come advocates in the community, part- Heading into his ninth season in time,” said Whitehead, that they are on the field together. nering with groups like Heal Charlotte for the NFL, the Carolina Panthers line- who spent the last two “At this point, they are just coming socioeconomic change. Roberts also part- backer is helping lead a young de- seasons with Oakland in like a deer in the headlights you nered with local podcast The Queen’s fense during an unprecedented time and was the 2019 know, eyes wide open, not knowing English Soccer Show to create a founda- in the game. Carolina drafted seven Raiders’ Walter Payton exactly what’s going on, but I take it tion that promotes awareness for BLM. players on defense for the first time Man of the Year nomi- serious being a veteran,” he said, They created a Black Lives Matter T-shirt by OMJ Clothing, which serves as a fund- in franchise – and the league’s com- Whitehead nee. “being a leader to kind of put their mon draft era – history in April. Whitehead, who also minds at ease and get them to under- Please see INDEPENDENCE | 6A Change is around every corner, spent six seasons in Detroit, has stand, ‘look, this is not your first year from the way the team has to go played 125 games, tallying 593 tack- playing football. Yes, this is your first about training camp due to COVID- les, five interceptions, and three year in the league, but this isn’t your 19, to changes among players and sacks. His single-season best was 92 first year playing football. Go back to coaching staff with additions like solo tackles (125 total) in 2016 for your training. first-time NFL head coach Matt Rhule the Lions. “All the stuff that you’ve learned and new defensive coordinator in Panthers rookies, like their peers over the years since you’ve been Phil Snow. That’s a lot to throw at a across the NFL, didn’t get the typical playing football, that’s what you rely veteran, let alone a rookie. spring experience of organized team on. Just go put your mind at ease. “For me it’s just taking the time to practices because of the pandemic Please see WHITEHEAD | 6A DE Weatherly: Worth is more than a job title By Ashley Mahoney sota behind Pro Bowlers Danielle do, because I play for the Panthers [email protected] Hunter and Everson Griffen. and I am a professional athlete. Sports are not the only way for a While Weatherly loves what he People see value, see worth in me as Black man to succeed in America. does, he wants the next generation to an individual, but when people don’t Americans worship Black athletes know their worth lies beyond foot- know what I do for a living, I get on the court and field, but when they ball. The decal he intends to wear treated differently. It shouldn’t take do not know what the ordinary guy this season in support of the Black what someone does or who they are walking down the street does for a Lives Matter movement reflects that. for them to then deserve to be living, a different perception is often “I am going to wear a decal,” treated fairly.” attached. Weatherly said. “The one I will wear Attention turned toward the Black Stephen Weatherly knows the pres- is a variation of Black Lives Matter, Lives Matter movement earlier this sure of having his worth as a person and just put “All Black Lives Matters.” year with the shooting death by two attached to his line of work. The Car- Especially given my standing, and white men of Ahmaud Arbery in olina Panthers defensive end signed where I am in the community, often Georgia while going for a run. CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE times when I met with people, my life Breonna Taylor was shot and killed a a two-year deal in March after spend- Charlotte Independence striker Dane Kelly, has been validated because of what I Please see | 6A ing his first four seasons with Minne- WEATHERLY the USL Championship’s all-time leading scorer, uses his soccer platform to show sup- port for the Black Lives Matter movement. Revised NC high school calendar means packed 2021 schedules By Herbert L. White from DHHS as it relates to how we could [email protected] perhaps play sports. We know that this is The earliest sports will return to North very fluid. … We hope that the conditions Carolina public schools is November. in our state as it relates to this pandemic, Cross country and volleyball practice we’ll have gotten to that point whenever are scheduled to open Nov. 4 and compe- we hear Dr. [Mandy] Cohen talk, she will tition starts on Nov. 16 ac- be satisfied that those percentages and cording to the state athletic the numbers are where they need to be in association’s revised sports North Carolina.” calendar. The most lucrative Cohen is DHHS secretary. programs, boys’ basketball While there are no guarantees high and football, start practice school sports will take place, the associa- Dec. 7 and Feb. 8 respec- tion’s plan allows some clarity should the tively. Every sport will be pandemic subsides in North Carolina. limited in the number of reg- Tucker Here are some takeaways and what they ular season contests, with mean to students, coaches, admin- basketball held to 14 games and football istrators and parents. seven in keeping with guidance from the • Postseason play is an iffy proposition. state Department of Health and Human The association and stakeholders have Services to limit spread of the coronavi- had conversations about playoffs, Tucker rus, which causes COVID-19. said, but no concrete plan has been de- TROY HULL | THE CHARLOTTE POST “We didn’t put this calendar together veloped. The goal as of now is to get sea- sons underway when it’s safe to do so. If North Carolina’s public schools are to sponsor championship sports during the 2020-21 ac- based on assumptions,” NCHSAA Com- “After the regular season ends, we have ademic year, the majority – including football – will take place in the winter and spring. missioner Que Tucker said. “We put the calendar together based on the guidelines Please see NEW | 6A 6A SPORTS | The Charlotte Post Thursday, August 20, 2020
New high school calendar Whitehead in learning, means packed schedules leading frame of mind Continued from page 5A that’s supposed to happen.’ No. Ask me move schedules forward. Continued from page 5A Make sure that you put your eyes where questions. I leave the floor open. not put those in place, but as it relates If Gov. Roy Cooper lifts more restric- you need to be. Focus in on the tech- “I don’t care if this is year nine or a to our having some discussion about tions on mass gatherings, NCHSAA nique, the details, and just listen to the rookie. One of my old coaches, Jim Cal- additional contests, we have had won’t plunge ahead with an accel- coaches. dwell, used to say, ‘a good idea holds no those discussions, but they have not erated or widened calendar. Conver- “If I see something that’s not quite right, rank.’ At the end of the day, don’t get taken any concrete shape at this sations with school districts, athletic I chime in. ‘Hey, you might want to tweak caught up in if you’re a 10-year vet, or if point,” she told reporters last week. directors and health experts will be this, or do this a little bit differently.’” you’re a rookie coming in. Everybody has “We will continue to look at that and needed before adopting any adjust- Whitehead still has room to grow, too, something to say. Everybody has good then work with our board to try to see ment. and on a one-year $2.5 million deal with thoughts. You just have to feed off each if that is something we would be able State and local officials will make the Panthers, he is not afraid to take ad- other.” to allow.” the call on fan attendance. vice from younger players. Whitehead replaces All Pro Luke • All sports schedules will be cur- Cooper has wide latitude over how “I’m open minded enough to take Kuechly at middle linebacker, but he is tailed, including football and basket- many people can gather at athletic pointers from them,” Whitehead said. making the most of still having Kuechly ball campaigns. Football, the closest events, and Tucker is convinced that “I’m always eager to learn from others, so around to pick his brain. Kuechly joined thing to a revenue-generating sport will continue. I’ll ask them questions. ‘Hey, what are the Panthers staff as a pro scout after an- for many schools, will be limited to “I think at some point in time, the your thoughts about that rep?’ Just to nouncing his retirement in January. seven games. NCHSAA has yet to re- governor is going to have to play a make them feel comfortable to speak on “I still take advantage of the fact that quire schools to play league games ex- large role in how many people can certain things, and not just let guys make Luke is in the building,” said Whitehead, clusively as a concession to gather outdoors once we get that in- mistakes or see something wrong, and who pointed out they both entered the non-conference rivalries. formation,” she said, “and if it is such think, ‘oh, well I guess that’s the way league in 2012. “We haven’t zeroed in on whether it that we could gather larger groups in has to be all conference games,” a stadium and that there is flexibility Tucker said. “We understand that to be able to help determine that, then every member school plays in a con- we will participate with our member ference, unless they’re an independ- schools in terms of ‘here’s what we ent member, but they all play in a think you ought to do,’ Tucker said. conference and conference games are “But I think the first step has to be always important. Would we like for taken from the governor’s office from everybody to be able to play every the Department of Health and Human member of their conference? Abso- Services as it relates to gatherings out- lutely, we would like that. But as we doors.” move forward, we want to be very There’ll be a lot of schedule overlap. flexible and we want to remain open Lacrosse, boys’ soccer and football, as to how we look at that so that as we for example, will occupy space on the make decisions about what the play- calendar and in terms of facilities. offs would look like, who could qual- There’s usually some overlap every ify for those playoffs, then we would year – think football and volleyball certainly look at it. playoffs and the start of boys’ and “With that in mind, we need to have girls’ basketball – but Tucker acknowl- this many conference games of all we edges it’ll be more pronounced. could say that it doesn’t matter how “We have to make those adjust- many conference games are involved, ments,” she said. “What I just want to that the conferences could then make remind everybody is this: We hope the determination as to who would that this is a one-year blip on our qualify into the playoffs.” radar, and that we will have to make
Moving to Phase 3 reopening won’t some sacrifices.” BRANDON TODD | CAROLINA PANTHERS Panthers defensive end Stephen Weatherly stresses that the worth of Black Americans extend beyond their job title. “A lot of people in this world will see me and see what I do and think I’m an amazing person and give me value, but then my cousin, my mom, my brother, all aren’t [valued] because they don’t do what I do for a living,” Window of opportunity opens for he said. Charlotte FC with transfer period Weatherly: Sports, music aren’t Continued from page 5A in the coming months include central de- ternational roster spots, which the league fender, defensive central midfielder, of- added in 2008. However, those slots are fensive central midfielder and striker. only paths to fame and fortune tradeable in full season increments, so a “We’re going to have to prepare and Continued from page 5A ment. club may have more or less than eight be- look at the players who would fit our couple of weeks later in her apartment in “For a long time, it’s been stereotyped cause with trades, a limit on the number playing style who would fit, potentially, Louisville, Kentucky by police. Then that there’s only a handful of ways to of international roster spots on a roster the future head coach’s ideas, and also George Floyd’s death sent shock waves make it out,” he said. “I feel like as some- does not exist. the players who will be building blocks across the nation. Police knelt on his neck one who is successful, not only in sports, Charlotte’s inaugural season was post- like Sergio is,” Krneta said. “Sergio is the for nearly nine minutes in Minneapolis, but off the field, it’s partly my job to poned to 2022 due to the coronavirus, so first building block of our future team.” Minnesota on May 25. show the next generation that you can they will loan any players signed during Charlotte intends to use the economic Whatever the NFL season may look like succeed in multiple different ways. It the transfer window. Club Sporting Direc- challenges of COVID-19 to their advan- in the face of COVID-19, players like feels like that’s the only way, until you tor Zoran Krneta is focused on sending tage. Glick used the example of Ruiz, Weatherly do not intend to let the mo- show the next generation that there are players to second division leagues like where several clubs were interested in ment fade into oblivion to advocate for all different ways, and you talk about it.” England’s Championship or Spain’s Se- him, but could not afford the transfer fee, Black lives. It starts with leading by example. gunda Division, which Ruiz knows well, because of their economic status. Ho- “A lot of people in this world will see me “You make it be OK and you don’t con- having signed with Charlotte from Racing wever, they are able to pay his salary as a and see what I do, and think I’m an amaz- demn those who may think differently Santander. player on loan. ing person and give me value but then my and be a nerd, we called them ‘Black Krneta said they will build around Ruiz “If there is an opportunity for us to get cousin, my mom, my brother, all aren’t nerds,’” Weatherly said. “Back before it and will look to bring in players who fit the player on a discounted price in terms [valued] because they don’t do what I do was cool to be into anime and cartoons the spine of the team during the transfer of the transfer fee and the salary, then we for a living,” he said. “That’s why I will and stuff like that, I was one of those kids, window. Potential positions they will sign will need to look at that,” Krneta said. wear a decal that says, ‘All Black Lives but now it’s like highly celebrated. It’s a Matter,’ not just the ones you root for.” slow evolution and to say, ‘there’s bigger. Weatherly wants the next generation to There’s more. There’s more than one way Independence striker Dane Kelly know that the stereotype of how to build for you to be successful. It doesn’t have a better life is not exclusive to entertain- to be a microphone or a ball.’” makes statement with every goal « HBCU Continued from page 5A more than just a check donation,” Rob- raising catalyst to help local organiza- erts said. tions that empower communities of Said coach Mike Jeffries: “It’s a clear NC Central celebrates its first color; Roots in the Community Services, message and a strong message from Creative Player Foundation and Block Dane. Players have been very supportive Love Charlotte. Roberts wrote his first of the Black Lives Matter movement, and check from the project on Aug. 10 – $800 they do it in different ways. We have decade as Division I program for Block Love Charlotte. He intends to do some who are little bit more at the fore- Bill Hayes was in a zone. was once the third-largest utation as a fundraiser. more. front, and that’s fantastic. We have other The subject of North Car- tourney in the country, be- One entertaining story he “I’m going to go out, not just to donate, guys who show their support in their own olina Central athletics and hind only the ACC Tourna- recalled was how he con- but help give out food to the homeless, ways. That was just a positive message the role he ment and Big East vinced the Durham Bulls to and stick around, make sure people know from Dane.” played in Tournament. And neither allow the baseball team to my face and my name, and that this is moving the of them had Mr. CIAA! use the Durham Bulls Ath- department So when Hayes and letic Park for their home from Division McCree decided to get games. USWNT standout Sam Mewis II to Division I feedback from alumni After a 30-year hiatus, had the chapters, they were in for baseball was returning as a former ath- one rude awakening. DI sport but with no home letics director “During that first year, field. So Hayes went a-cal- transfers to Manchester City BONITTA on fire. they did not want to give ling at the Bulls office. By Ashley Mahoney goal and one assist. She president and general man- BEST Hayes up the CIAA Tournament,” He didn’t say who he [email protected] also organized a team ager Curt Johnson: “Sam is joined current Hayes said. “We got told talked to, but after re- Sam Mewis is heading to fundraiser for the National a special person, player, AD Ingrid off, cursed out…we kept peatedly being told no, for- England. Black Justice Coalition, and leader. She has been Wicker McCree on a Zoom getting knocked up side get it, you’re out of your The three-time NWSL raising $10,811 through an instrumental in establish- meeting on Tuesday to the head about the CIAA mind (my words) during champion and United online auction. ing the special culture that celebrate the 10th anniver- Tournament.” the meeting, he gave a little States women’s national “Sam has been a tremen- now exists within the North sary of NCCU’s reclassifica- It also didn’t help that be- history lesson. team World Cup winner de- dous leader for our club Carolina Courage team and tion. tween 2005-07, NCCU cap- “I asked him, ‘do you parts the North Carolina and her development has more broadly in the entire Hayes, who played foot- tured eight conference know where you are sit- Courage for Manchester been astronomical,” Cou- club. We wish her the best ball at NCCU and coached championships, and foot- ting?’” Hayes said. “’I used City Women’s Football rage head coach Paul Riley in this new journey and at Wake Forest, Winston- ball was king. to live right down the Club in the FA Women’s said. “She has improved look forward to her return.” Salem State and North Car- But things started to street. Do you see Highway Super League. The Courage her game in every depart- Mewis is well acquainted olina A&T – the latter two change after Ammons 147, this whole area was will retain her NWSL rights. ment and I’m super proud with Manchester City, hav- as head coach – was hired hired two consulting firms black Hayti. I used to play “I’ve been so lucky to be of the player she has be- ing beaten them in the by new chancellor James to help out. It was their stickball right over there. part of the Courage for the come. This step to Man- 2019 Women’s Inter- Ammons in 2003 to lead suggestion to make the And you’re telling me we last three and a half years,” chester City is important in national Champions Cup. the Eagles in a new era. transition argument more can’t play our games Mewis said in a statement. many aspects. She gets to The English side’s 2019-20 You’d think the biggest about academics than ath- here?” “It’s been so challenging, be uncomfortable again, campaign secured their hurdle would have been letics that opened eyes – The Eagles played at the rewarding, and fun to com- her role will change, differ- place in a fifth straight raising money to increase a and wallets. DBAP for three seasons. pete with my teammates ent tactics, and she will be UEFA Women’s Champions $2 million athletics budget McCree, who at one time Needless to say, it made for and friends in front of the shaped even further as she League. to over $10 million per DI had more campus jobs quite a nice recruiting tool. most wonderful fans. I strives to become the best “I’m excited to join Man- standards. But money is- than an octopus has arms The team moved to the miss North Carolina al- box-to-box midfielder in chester City as I feel the ex- sues were the least of (softball and volleyball smaller and more intimate ready and I hope to return the world. perience will expose me to Hayes’ and McCree’s prob- coach, compliance, profes- Durham Athletic Park on to the team in the future.” “Most important for Sam new challenges,” Mewis lems. sor), was building her ca- Foster Street in 2010. The Mewis, who joined the right now are competitive said. “The team has so It may be hard for you reer in athletics DAP is actually a better fit. Courage in 2017, leaves games, especially leading many talented players and young’uns to fathom, but administration. Hayes There is no bad seat and with 14 goals and 11 as- into an Olympic year, and I am really looking forward the CIAA was the happen- credits her with handling fans are on top of the ac- sists over 5,121 minutes. she will be able to play 20 to getting started. I’m hon- ing place back in the day – most of the planning and tion. She played in all five of games over the next six to ored to have this opportu- all because of one event. organizing and keeping the But history was made. the Courage’s NWSL Chal- seven months, which is nity and I hope that I can Some of us had a special chancellor informed. Bonitta Best is sports edi- lenge Cup matches this hugely valuable.” impact the team posi- piggy bank just to save for Hayes, on the other hand, tor at The Triangle Tribune year, with 379 minutes, a Said North Carolina club tively.” the CIAA Tournament. It was earning quite a rep- in Durham.