Houston Defender: March 26, 2020

STAY AT HOME IN FOCUS

Impacts of coronavirus on

BLACK BUSINESS

Davis Adams

Volume 89, issue 22 March 26, 2020

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DN On the web

FIT & FINE Chichi Nwaorie Age: 36 Occupation: Fitness entrepreneur Education: University of Houston Major: Journalism/Mass Communications Motto: “She is clothed with strength and dignity and she laughs without fear of the future.” Prov. 31:25

I LOVE… To hear people’s fitness stories. It’s motivating!

Message from the Publisher The coronavirus is impacting our lives in so Editor Marilyn Marshall as she delved into the many ways it’s hard to keep up. This virus will af“Do’s and Don’ts” because there are some guidefect our children’s education, our family financlines you should follow and she offers some es, the census, the upcoming election and small valuable resources. businesses that support our communities.

And even with sports shutdown, Sports ediAs a result, the Defender decided to focus tors Terrance Harris (PVAMU AD wants GIRL on the Coronavirus Impact on Houston Small POWER) and Jodie B. Jiles (What’s Next for Black Businesses. I would like to thank the HISD) were able to find good stories to share. businesses who shared their perspective with Sonny Messiah Jiles The Defender STAY HOME, STAY SAFE Defender People editor Aswad Walker and encampaign is underway. So get the DIGITAL courage restaurant owners doing take-out to register with DEFENDER. We will still have newspapers at the grocery the Defender: http://bit.ly/defendergoodeats. stores but we will not distribute at other community locaEducating your children was the focal point of Associate tions. Join us via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

COVID-19 FITNESS PLAN For inspiration, we turned to the Defender’s Fit & Fine fitness enthusiasts for tips to keep the weight off and maintain fitness: SEE VIDEOS AND HEALTHY RECIPES ON DEFENDERNETWORK.COM. Keep it fun

“Participate in social media challenges, enjoy outdoor exercises and connect with trainers for virtual workout sessions.” – Joy Diggs “Set aside 30 minutes daily to be #CoronaFit and #CoronaFine. Set up a room or area in your home just for working out.

Find a good kettlebell workout or participate in some of the fitness challenges on Instagram.”- Stevie Brown “Get an accountability partner and check in daily. Post your own exercise videos and tag others to jump in with you.

When you motivate others, you unknowingly motivate yourself to keep pushing forward.” – Ian Buchanan “Pull out those rollerblades – yes, I know you have a pair! Remember how much fun it was [to rollerblade]?”

– Chichi Nwaorie Stick to a schedule, goals

“Create a schedule. With the uncertainty of the outside world, being able to take control of something will feel good.” – Stevie Brown

“Regardless of your quarantine situation, stick to a schedule!

If you used to workout at noon, continue to do so now. This is not a break from your bills, kids, responsibilities and certainly not from your goals. As depressed as you may be right now, imagine how you’d feel after this is all over and you’re back to where you first started.” – Ian Buchanan “This is a great time to revisit the goals you’ve made and see how far you’ve come. There may be new space in your schedule to create another small fitness goal. Post your new goal on social media and motivate others.” – Lillian Abdalla “Use this time wisely. Meditate, calm your mind, body and spirit. Read, grow, practice self-love and gratitude.”

– Jermaine Patterson Eat for fuel, not boredom

“Keep low-calorie snacks on hand and stick to your normal eating schedule. Set an alarm for times to eat and drink water.”

– Joy Diggs “Stay motivated by creating new, healthy recipes and eat immune-boosting foods. Avoid emotional eating.” – Crystal Hadnott “Remember to eat to fuel your body and not kill the boredom.”

– Chichi Nwaorie

Defender Network

Stay Home Stay Safe IG: @chicenitza IG: @sweatworkhtx Read more on Friday about Chichi at defendernetwork.com If you are Fit & Fine email: fitnfine@defendernetwork.com

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DN News Congress passes $2T stimulus bill The White House and Senate leaders of both parties agreed on an unprecedented $2-trillion package emergency legislation to rush sweeping aid to businesses, workers and a health care system slammed by the coronavirus pandemic.

The urgently needed pandemic response measure is the largest economic rescue in history. Under the agreement, $250 billion will be set aside for direct payments to individuals and families, $350 billion in small business loans, $250 billion in unemployment insurance benefits and $500 billion in loans for distressed companies.

Full details are pending but so far, here are highlights:

ONE-TIME PAYMENT • Individuals who earn $75,000 (adjusted gross income) or less receive $1,200 • Married couples earning up to $150,000 receive $2,400 • $500 per each child INELIGIBLE • Individuals earning over $99,000 • Married, childless couples earning over $198,000 OTHER HIGHLIGHTS • Payment for furloughed and self-employed workers • Money for cash-strapped states.

• Creation of inspector general and oversight board for corporate dollars

Coronavirus: Things to know ReShonda Tate Billingsley

At last count, the number of Greater Houston-area coronavirus cases stood at 292 with two deaths and 21 recoveries reported. While many people are aware of the growing crisis with coronavirus, there is a lot more information that some don’t know.

We’ve compiled some of the most important facts on the local, state and national levels.

May 26 runoff elections moved to July 14

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott postponed the May 26 primary runoff elections until July 14 in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Early voting will take place July 6-10. The most prominent race is between Dallas State Sen. Royce West and former Air Force pilot MJ Hegar. Both Democrats want to unseat Republican U.S. Sen. John Cornyn.

Updates on elective surgeries, ‘shelter-in-place’

Abbott is also issuing orders to increase health care and hospital capacity as COVID19 spreads throughout the state. However, he will not issue a “shelter-in-place” order for Texas, as many other governors have done.

All health care professionals must also postpone all surgeries and procedures that are not urgent and necessary. Abbot said the state is testing “to the full extent of testing capabilities,” and the number of cases has increased as testing has ramped up. Lack of resources is still an issue, and the governor added it would take “several weeks” to know

if Texas is slowing the spread of COVID19 and that any decisions to reopen schools would come only after enough progress had been made.

Regulations waived

Texas is waiving certain rules relating to vehicle registration, parking placards for persons with disabilities and titling to aid the state’s efforts to combat COVID-19. The suspensions will allow Texans to avoid penalties for failure to timely title or register a vehicle, or renew a parking placard.

Drive-thru testing facilities are increasing across Texas.

TESTING

Although health providers across the country are dealing with a shortage of tests, in part due to a lack of testing swabs, Texas has lagged behind much of the rest of the country when it comes to prevention and containment, according to a recent analysis from WalletHub. Houston is working overtime to put up testing sites to combat the spread of coronavirus. Here are places for you to be tested: OPTION 1: A drive-thru testing operation opened by Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee at United Memorial Medical Center in Harris County.

Price: Free OPTION 2: Next Level Urgent Care is conducting drive-thru testing at several locations across the area.

Price: Insurance co-pay or $200 without insurance

OPTION 3: Legacy Community Health has opened several satellite clinics: Legacy Fifth Ward, 3811 Lyons Ave.; Legacy Montrose, 1415 California St.; and Legacy Southwest, 6441 High Star Dr. Price: Varies, based on insurance OPTION 4: A testing facility at Butler Stadium which focuses on first-responders and healthcare workers.

GET ALL YOUR CORONAVIRUS QUESTIONS ANSWERED AT: WWW.READYHARRIS.ORG CITY HOTLINE TAKES QUESTIONS The Houston Health Department has a hotline for questions about COVID-19. Call 832-393-4220 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Residents without access to healthcare can call the triage line for COVID-19-related questions at 713-634-1110 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week. Surrounding counties also have testing locations.

Check your area health department for more information.

Income tax deadline moved to July 15

The Trump administration has decided to push the income tax filing date from April 15 to July 15. Taxpayers and businesses will have this additional time to file and make payments without interest or penalties.

Metro changes include suspended fare collection

Metro is making several modifications to services amid the COVID-19 outbreak.

The Houston transit agency is temporarily suspending collection of fares on local bus routes, light rail, Park & Ride and MetroLift.

In an effort to support social distancing, passengers must use the rear door when boarding and exiting a local bus. Only passengers with mobility issues will be able to request the use of the front door of the bus to access the ramp. In addition, online RideStore and physical RideStore locations will be closed until further notice.

VOLUME 89 - NUMBER 22 - MARCH 26, 2020 Publisher | CEO Sonceria Messiah-Jiles

Managing Editor ReShonda Tate Billingsley

Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler

Associate Editor Marilyn Marshall

Strategic Alllance Clyde Jiles

People Editor Aswad Walker

Creative Director Michael Grant

Sports Terrance Harris Jodie B. Jiles

Photographers Ray Carrington III Jimmie Aggison

Engagement Manager Margo Williams Hubbard

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Newspaper Inc. and audited by Alliance for Audited Media (AAM). Only digital subscriptions are available at: www.defendernetwork.com/subscribe No paper subscriptions available. All materials covered by 2020 copyright. No materials herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher. 713-663-6996 | P.O. Box 8005, Houston, Tx 77288

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DN News Civil rights groups push expanded absentee voting

Defender News Service

Hundreds of civil rights organizations are calling on state governments to expand absentee voting in the face of the coronavirus pandemic. In Texas, that may require an act of the governor.

Anthony Gutierrez, executive director with Common Cause Texas, said allowing widespread use of mail-in balloting is necessary to protect voters, who may fear to show up at the polls in large numbers and risk catching COVID-19. He said that’s not the only reason.

“I’m worried that election workers are simply not going to show up,” Gutierrez said, “because the vast majority of people who are working at our poll sites right now in Texas, and everywhere in America for that matter, tend to be older Americans. They fall into that pool of people who are most at risk during this pandemic. Obviously if election workers don’t show up, poll sites don’t open.

There’s nobody to operate the machines and check in voters.”

Under TexTEXAS VOTERS as law, residents have to meet one 41.4% of four condiWhite tions to vote absentee. They have 32.1% to be over 65, Hispanic overseas, in jail 12.3% or disabled. GutiAfrican American errez said that by itself should not 5.0% provide a legal Asian barrier to expanding the use 9.2% of mail-in ballots.

Other “The secretary Source: 2018 of state can issue Census estimates an advisory simply stating that any Texan who wants to vote by mail because of COVID-19 concerns is allowed to do so by just checking the disabled box on the form,” he said.

The legislature, not the secretary of state, sets the criteria for eligibility for mail-in ballots.

JOHN SPINK / AJC

Elections Coordinators scan absentee ballots.

CLASSIFIED TABC PUBLIC NOTICE

Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a mixed beverage permit by State of Mind HTX, LLC DBA State of Mind HTX to be located at 2632 N. Durham Dr. Houston, TX 77008.

Managers of LLC are A.D. Wright and Kristin Wright.

If I could do one thing, I’d have a daycare closer to work.

If you could do one thing for your community, what would it be? More daycare centers? More funding for Head Start? Completing the 2020 Census is a safe and easy way to inform how billions of dollars in funding flow into your community for hundreds of services.

Respond online, by phone, or by mail.

Complete the census at:

2020CENSUS.GOV Paid for by U.S. Census Bureau.

C24097_1a_2019_Census_Daycare_Newspaper_HalfPage_SizeA_9_75x6.indd 02.25.20 Epson

A24097x08B_340-00034703_CMYK_news.tif

4C Newspaper - Size A

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DN InFocus

STAY AT HOME COUNTY JUDGE, MAYOR UNVEIL PLAN Community priority: Health & Safety

Houston and Harris County residents are ordered to “stay home” and “work safe” through Friday, April 3. County Judge Lina Hidalgo and Mayor Sylvester Turner announced the order to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Hidalgo said the order applies throughout Harris County, including incorporated areas.

“This means that all of us should stay home unless our jobs are essential for the health and safety of our community,” she said.

Turner said the city is in a health care crisis and that steps must be taken to slow the progression of the virus “so we are not in this situation longer than we need to be.”

Steps to be taken include: STAYING HOME

Residents who work in non-essential industries must stay at home except when they need to conduct essential business and activities. All public or private gatherings outside of a single household or living unit are prohibited except for essential activities. If someone in a household has tested positive for COVID-19 the household will be ordered to isolate and members of the household will not be able to go to work.

GOING OUT

SOCIAL DISTANCING

Residents still can go to the grocery store, pharmacy, gas station or other similar essential establishments. They can stop by restaurants, which are only allowed to serve food through take-out, drive-thru or delivery. They can leave home to seek medical Harris County treatment or to care for Judge Lina Hidalgo a family member or a pet in another household. They can engage in outdoor activities as long they practice social distancing and stay 6 feet away from others. Local parks will remain open but playgrounds, exercise equipment, benches, basketball courts and other such areas are off limits because the virus can live on surfaces.

The requirement for social distancing remains in effect everywhere. Residents must stay 6 feet away from others, whether at the office or in a restaurant take-out line.

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner

Concerning essential businesses that can remain open, Hidalgo and Turner referred to 16 sectors that meet the federal government’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency guidelines. In addition, daycares that provide support for essential employees will be open.

The 16 sectors are: chemical, commercial facilities, communications, critical manufacturing, dams, defense industrial base, emergency services, energy, financial services, food and agriculture, government facilities, health care and public health, information technology, nuclear reactors/materials /waste, transportation systems and water and wastewater systems.

CHURCH & RELIGION

Religious and worship services will only take place via video or teleconference. Exceptions will be made for faith leaders to minister one-on-one for mental health or spiritual health purposes as long as social distancing is implemented.

SHOW ME THE COVID-19 MONEY

Small Business Financial Sources SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan Customer Service: 1-800-659-2955 Texas small businesess can now apply for SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) to help with the COVID-19 crisis.

non-profits is 2.75%.

EIDLs have long-term repayment options, up to a maximum of 30 years. Terms are determined on a case-by-case basis, based on the borrower’s ability to repay.

What’s an EIDL? The SBA EIDL program can provide low-interest loans of up to $2 million to businesses and private non-profits.

EIDLs may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills.

The interest rate is 3.75% for small businesses without credit available elsewhere. The interest rate for

How do I apply?

Online at SBA.gov/disaster.

Need help? Call the SBA’s Disaster Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.

Individuals who are deaf or hardof-hearing can call 800-877-8339.

BUSINESS RESOURCES Facebook Small Business Grant Program Financing type: Grants and advertising credits Funding Limit: TBD, the total fund is $100 million in cash and ad credits |$5,000 increments Who it’s for: Any small business in over 30 countries where Facebook operates

GOING TO WORK

Website: https://www. facebook.com/business/ boost/grantfacebook.com/ business Small Business Development Center 713-752-8444 sbdc.uh.edu Houston SCORE 713-487-6565 Houston.score.org

Women’s Business Center 713-681-9232 wbea-teaxs.org/womens-business-center U.S. Small Business Administration 713-773-6500 sba.gov/tx/houston

DAILY WEBINARS

The SBA Houston District Office provides the latest information to help small businesses with their economic recovery from the effects of the coronavirus.

Information will be given on how to apply and where to get additional help with preparing and applying for an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan. Sessions will allow for chat Q&A. The information presented in all calls will be the same.

9 a.m.

Join Zoom Meeting https://score.zoom.us/j/401014156 Meeting ID: 401 014 156 Join mobile +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) Meeting ID: 401 014 156 11 a.m. (Spanish/Español) Join Zoom Meeting https://score.zoom.us/j/953359546 Meeting ID: 953 359 546 Join mobile +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) Meeting ID: 953 359 546

1 p.m.

Join Zoom Meeting https://score.zoom.us/j/358760584 Meeting ID: 358 760 584 Join mobile +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) Meeting ID: 358 760 584 3 p.m.

Join Zoom Meeting https://score.zoom.us/j/293099534 Join mobile +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) Meeting ID: 293 099 534

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DN InFocus FOCUS SOCIAL

ATTENTION: HOUSTON BLACK RESTAURANTS OFFERING TAKE-OUT

‘Good Eats’ - Black-owned restaurants and chefs ordering take-out services.

Visit defendernetwork.com for the Good Eats listing.

To be added to Good Eats, submit your information: http://bit.ly/defendergoodeats.

HOUSTON IMPACT: BLACK BUSINESS & CORONAVIRUS Aswad Walker s individuals and entire countries are impacted by the coronavirus global pandemic, we can’t forget the very real impact it’s having upon Black businesses and entrepreneurs. The Defender spoke with six local business owners for a first-hand view of the impact and how the community can support them in these times.

A

Q:

What impact has the pandemic had on your business?

Q:

How can the Black community support your business at this time?

JACKIE ADAMS

BONITA BILLINGS

NICHOLAS BOATNER

5306 Almeda Rd. Melodramaboutique.com 713-523-1608

8770 Hwy 6, Suite 300, Missouri City 832-440-7134

9811 W. Broadway St. www.sugarrushpearland.com 713-434-7874

“My business has been slow from the beginning of the outbreak since I am a lifestyle boutique and people shop me for vacations and special events throughout the city, such as luncheons, teas and fashion shows, which have been cancelled and being rescheduled for later this year. Now with the new bar closures and dine-out only restrictions for restaurants, people are just in shock and and there is no movement for most small businesses. In other words, traffic has been shut down for small businesses.”

“The coronavirus pandemic has crippled my business. I was totally devastated [recently] when I received the news from our county judge in Fort Bend forcing all bars and restaurants in the county to cease operations effective at midnight. My first thought was for my 12 employees that totally depend on the bar for income. My second thought was for the musicians and DJs that play at my bar on a monthly basis. Most of them heavily relied on the extra income to make ends meet.

They are totally out of work. My third thought of many, was if my business along with other small businesses will be able to survive this pandemic. We are very hopeful and prayerful that we will overcome.”

“Our business has experienced a major impact. Because businesses can’t offer a dinein service, business has dropped. We are predominately a to-go eating place anyway, but still business is slow. With dining places closed, and us being a dessert place, it has directly impacted our business.”

“This pandemic is as afflicting to businesses as it is to the human body. Just as individuals are affirmed, ill and may even die, it’s the same with businesses. We are affirmed and ailing, and many may even die.”

“This is an incredibly difficult time for the hospitality and tourism industry. Our company has been impacted significantly during this time. We share the same challenges as hotels, convention centers, theater centers and fellow food service operators. The drastic and sudden change in demand for our services due to the coronavirus outbreak could create significant long-term financial and structural damage to our business model with the job losses in the millions for the hospitality sector. We have worked to keep core employees on the payroll with reduced hours while we work through the current challenges.”

“The coronavirus has affected my business in both negative and positive ways. The mass cancellation of events for my clients has obviously had a negative effect. All of the work and planning that go into events just went out the window in a matter of days. That’s devastating for my clients, and therefore, it has an effect on my company as well. On the other hand, because I provide services that help clients handle crisis communication, I am actually getting many requests from people who were not already among my client base. Usually, in times of crises, it’s firms like mine that business owners turn to for help with messaging and strategy.”

“I am pushing online shopping via our website (www.melodramaboutique.com), but I created an in-store experience which is what my clients enjoyed, with different trunk shows and community partnerships, which I have had to cancel. I have also had to change our store hours to Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.”

“We’ve had to become very creative, asking the community to continue to support us by offering ‘Wine By the Bottle’ sales for curbside or delivery within a five-mile radius.

We have a limited menu, but we are offering food and drink to go for curbside pickup, Tuesday through Saturday, 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. A GoFundMe account has been implemented to support my employees and the ongoing operation expense of the bar during these turbulent times. All donations are greatly appreciated. We will survive! This is only a setup for a big comeback.”

“The community can support us by placing call-in orders or by ordering desserts to go online at www.sugarrushpearland.com.

We’re doing curbside orders so customers don’t have to come in and spend any extra time. We have a vast cleaning system in our store that we’ve always abided by. However, we are taking above-and-beyond precautions to keep our customers safe, offering hand sanitizer for customers...”

“As we comply with city and county mandates regarding calling in orders and picking up orders to go, the community can do the same: calling in orders and picking them up to go and being committed to doing that. Recently, our community had a business that was publicly challenged and the people responded. But, as I said then, we’ve got to understand Black businesses are perpetually in danger, and we have to be that vigilant at all times regarding supporting our businesses. Because even our strongest businesses will take a hit at this time, and other businesses may even be faced with closure.”

“To specifically help restaurant/catering operators like myself, if you’re financially capable, take advantage of any pick-up or delivery food programs. Lemond Kitchen has family meals, kitchen and grocery essentials available online for customers to order. Also, we will get through this, so start thinking of how individuals and companies can support larger-scale orders and catering for the late summer and fall...No business, big or small, is immune to the current climate. We will need a Houston renaissance like a modern-day Black Wall Street, to ensure African American entrepreneurs survive the current challenges organizing collectively with community leaders and residents to successfully respond to the new economy that lies ahead.

“We provide a number of services that are important to Black business owners, including social media management, PR and marketing, writing and editing and communication strategy. I hope members of the business community would consider hiring our firm for any of these needs. Most importantly though, I encourage everyone to practice social distancing and be diligent in helping to slow the spread of the virus. That would help out everyone.”

Melodrama Boutique

B’s Wine Bar

Sugar Rush Pearland

MARCUS DAVIS

tbk Holdings, Inc. the breakfast klub, Reggae Hut Café, Kulture, Alley Kat Bar & Lounge

REGINALD MARTIN

MISTY STARKS

Lemond Kitchen

Misty Blue Media & 3B Resource Group

www.lemondkitchen.com 713-790-0441

www.mistybluemedia.com 832-283-7575

One-on-One with Black Chamber Chairperson Carol Guess The Greater Houston Black Chamber (GHBC) works tirelessly to reach and partner with AfricanAmerican owned businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals. The Defender talked with GHBC Chair Carol Guess about what they’re doing to help Black businesses move forward.

Carol Guess

Defender: Many small and minority-owned businesses are bracing for the economic impact from the coronavirus. What do you see as being the major challenges ahead for them?

Carol Guess: Cash flow, lay-offs and closures. Many of our businesses are service-oriented and need human interaction to generate sales. Without receiving this interaction, our businesses will not receive the cash injection needed to conduct daily operations. Accordingly, this will lead to lay-offs for some businesses, and unfortunately, closures, as the end date of this crisis is unknown.

Defender: What will the chamber do to assist those businesses?

Guess: The chamber is providing continuing information to our members pertaining to measures that can help them sustain their businesses, and also letting the public know that our businesses are open for business. A couple of these efforts include “chamber chat” sessions with business industry leaders and experts in industries that directly impact our member businesses to provide them with information that can help them sustain during this tough time.

We are also providing information to the public regarding our member businesses that are open for business through

our buy Black initiative at www.houstonbuyblack.com and through postings highlighting our members’ products and services through email campaigns, and on our Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn platforms.

Defender: Is there anything that business owners can do in the meantime to ride this out?

Guess: First and foremost, we want to make sure everyone takes measures to stay safe. We want the public to stay informed so that they take this coronavirus pandemic seriously, show care for their own safety and that of their employees.

We encourage business owners to do all they can to minimize their community spread footprint.

Secondly, businesses can review their product/service offerings to pivot toward what is in demand now, and offer their products/services, if possible, in a manner that fits today’s demand. They can also take a look at discounting products/services, or suspending or eliminating offerings that are cash or labor intensive to produce. Also, business owners can take advantage of the SBA disaster loan program that Texas is now eligible for and apply at sba.gov to help remedy cash flow issues.

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DN InFocus FOCUS SOCIAL

DO’S AND DON’TS for educating at home

T

Marilyn Marshall

he coronavirus pandemic has had a major impact on parents and students in Houston and beyond, as they find ways to deal with school closures.

Many parents are juggling working from home with instructing their kids at home, and are uncertain how long the situation will last.

Here are do’s and don’ts for moms and dads.

DO’s • Stay abreast of how your child’s school and district are continuing learning opportunities. If remote learning is offered, use the assignments provided to create structure and supplement them with activities as needed.

• Keep home education simple. Try setting a goal of several hours of instruction per day.

Many students are fresher in the morning, so it’s good to start with a subject like math.

• Implement a daily schedule. Kenetha Jones, a Houston career counselor and mother of a 5-year-old daughter, Tierrah, said they are up by 7 a.m. so she can begin taking work calls from home by 8 a.m. By 9 a.m., her daughter is busy with lessons provided by her school. They also have a regularly scheduled lunchtime.

• Create a school space. Clear off the kitchen or dining room table or share or add another desk. Determine if you will need a blackboard and an empty wall or bulletin board to post calendars or schedules. Have a designated storage space or bookshelf for pens, pencils, notebooks, workbooks and textbooks.

• Be flexible. There are bound to be interruptions during the day, especially if you’re working from home as well. You might have to balance tight deadlines, conference calls or webinars with educating at home. Household chores still need to be done as well, and some permanent homeschool parents have their kids perform chores before schoolwork or count chore time as school. In addition, be prepared to adapt your schedule to your child’s changing needs.

DON’TS • Don’t try to do it all. You can’t help your child with a math problem, talk to you boss on the phone, mop the floor and fix lunch all at the same time. Multitasking doesn’t necessarily save time and it might actually take you more time to complete two projects together than it would to finish each one separately.

• Don’t be afraid to think outside the box.

Make learning fun.

According to the National Home School Association, games like Monopoly teach math and baking can teach about fractions. Let your kids make recycled art out of used jars, plastic bottles or cardboard tubes from paper towels rolls.

• Don’t feel you need to be an expert in every subject. According to the online educational program Khan Academy, “It’s okay to not know the subject. This is a great time to be a role model for being curious and how to learn. You might say, ‘I don’t know all the answers myself, let’s find out the ways to learn this material.’”

• Don’t neglect playtime. Kids need time to play now more than ever, and it should be a part of your daily routine. Keeping social distancing in mind, let your kids go outside for fresh air and exercise. You can take walks or ride bikes. Avoid playground equipment since the National Institutes of Health says the coronavirus can survive on metal surfaces for several days.

• Don’t let the lack of a computer or Internet service discourage you. HISD teachers have begun reaching out to families to establish students’ digital curriculum access needs so campuses can determine paper-based resources schools need to provide. Fort Bend ISD said that if the district transitions to online learning, student options include checking out laptops from feeder pattern high schools and picking up paper packets. Comcast is offering new customers in qualified low-income households 60 days of complimentary Internet Essentials service. Call 1-855-846-8376 or visit www.internetessentials.com.

Sample homeschool schedule 8:30 a.m. – Math 9:15 a.m. – Language arts 9:45 a.m. – Snack/break 10:15 a.m. - Reading 11 a.m. – Science 11:45 a.m. – Lunch 12:45 p.m. – History/social studies 1:30 p.m. – Electives (art, music, etc.)

Supplementary online resources ABCmouse Reading, math, science & art, ages 2-8 abcmouse.com Facing History and Ourselves Resources exploring racism & prejudice, grades 6-12 https://www.facinghistory.org/ Fun Brain Reading & math games, grades pre-K-8 http://www.funbrain.com Khan Academy Practice exercises & videos, various topics, all ages, https://www.khanacademy.org/ Math Playground Math games & videos, grades 1-6 http://www.mathplayground.com/ National Geographic Kids Geography, science, culture & animals, ages 6-14, https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/ PBS Kids Educational games & videos, ages 2-5 pbskids.org Reading Eggs Reading, ages 2-13, readingeggs.com ReadWriteThink Reading & writing, grades pre-K–12 http://www.readwritethink.org/ Starfall Language arts & music, grades pre-K-3 www.starfall.com Virtual Nerd Math tutorials, grades 6-12, virtualnerd.com

Xfinity offers all these educational resources through your cable box.

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DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Entertainment MOVIES TO WATCH DURING YOUR

T

QUARANTINE

he coronavirus has millions of Americans cooped up inside and many are exploring TV and streaming sites. There are many flicks that offer some escape and comfort in a storm of distressing news. There are also dramas for those interested in viruses.The Defender compiled some must-see TV to pass the time while you’re on lockdown or quarantine.

“Dolemite Is My Name” (Netflix) – Eddie Murphy returns to the big screen as 1970s comedian Rudy Ray Moore, as he creates his beloved raunchy alter ego “Dolemite,” one of the stars of the “blaxploitation” film era.

“American Son” (Netflix) – Adapted from the acclaimed Broadway play that also stars Kerry Washington, “American Son” follows an estranged couple as they await news on their missing teen son in a Florida police station.

“Barry” (Netflix) – This Barack Obama biopic follows No. 44 as he navigates his junior year at Columbia University, struggling to stay connected to his parents and schoolmates.

“Monogamy” (Amazon Prime) – The ensemble drama features four couples who travel to undergo a new type of treatment called swap therapy to repair their broken marriage.

“The Intruder” (Amazon Prime) – A couple (Megan Goode, Michael Ealy) buys their dream house to take the next steps as a family but then suspect that the seller has hidden motivations beyond a quick sale.

“Sextuplets” (Netflix) – While expecting his own child, Alan (Marlon Wayans) discovers he’s a sextuplet and sets out to find his five siblings, all played by Wayans.

“The Black Godfather” (Netflix) – This eye-opening documentary tells the untold story of Clarence Avant, known as the “Black Godfather” among Hollywood’s elite, in the music industry and politics.

“High Flying Bird” (Netflix) – Shot “First Match” (Netflix) – A completely on an iPhone, the drama teenage girl grows up in Brooklyn’s follows a sports agent who concocts a Brownsville foster care system and risky plan in order to end an NBA lockout. joins a boys’ wrestling team in an effort to get the attention of her “ReMastered: The Two Killings father, an ex-prisoner who was a of Sam Cooke” (Netflix) – The star wrestler at her age. documentary delves into the events surrounding the mysterious murder “Outbreak” (Netflix) – The medical of Sam Cooke, the musician and disaster flick stars scientists trying activist who died in the midst of the to contain a virus that’s spread Civil Rights Movement in 1964. from a monkey brought to the U.S. from Africa, after a customs agent “Roxanne Roxanne” (Netflix) – The lets it go. While trying to find a cure, biopic tells the story of Queens-born a general tries to hone in on the emcee Roxanne Shanté, who rose to virus as a deadly bio-weapon. fame at the age of 14 following the release of her 1984 single “Roxanne’s “Contagion” (Hulu, Amazon Prime) Revenge.” While she’s considered one – The movie follows a variety of of hip-hop’s first female rappers, the people – including healthcare film depicts her struggle to succeed providers, government officials in the male-dominated music and normal folks – during a global industry of the 1980s. pandemic.

“Quincy” (Netflix) – Follows the life of composer and producer Quincy Jones, who counted celebrities like Ray Charles, Marlon Brando and Frank Sinatra as friends. His daughter, Rashida Jones, co-directed the film.

“Nappily Ever After” (Netflix) – The film follows the story of a woman who has it all (the perfect house, boyfriend and job) but decides to cut her hair off after her life begins to crumble.

“93 Days” (Netflix) – In this film, doctors and officials race to contain an outbreak of the deadly Ebola virus. Based on the 2014 situation in Nigeria, the movie stars Danny Glover. The film was dedicated to Ameyo Adadevoh, a doctor who played a key role in containing the outbreak and who died in 2014.

“Little Fires Everywhere” (Hulu) – The movie starring Kerry Washington follows the intertwined fates of the picture-perfect Richardson family and an enigmatic mother and daughter who upend their lives.

“Juanita” (Netflix) – Alfre Woodard plays a woman who uproots her life to take a trip to Montana, leaving her three grown children behind in order to better herself.

Legendary DJ D-Nice lifts spirits with #ClubQuarantine

DJ DNice is keeping the party going as the world remains on pause in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic—and everyone is invited. The beloved DJ—who is also a music industry icon on the turntables—has been hosting daily jam sessions appropriately titled “Homeschool” live from his personal Instagram page, keeping spirits high with an endless playlist of hits. He says he’ll continue the party on his Instagram page for the foreseeable future.

10 | March 26, 2020 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports Rockets forward P.J. Tucker is set to open his own boutique sneaker store in Houston later this year.

Devonte Patterson and Gerard Andrus, Prairie View A&M seniors, named to Boxtorow’s 12th annual Division I HBCU All-America First Team.

Roughnecks’ Walker is NFL bound Terrance Harris

It should come as little surprise that Houston Roughnecks breakout star P.J. Walker would be a coveted commodity by the NFL once the XFL season was over.

The Seattle Seahawks, Denver Broncos and Arizona Cardinals all came calling, but his former Temple coach, Matt Rhule, won out when Walker agreed to a two-year free agent contract to join the Carolina Panthers as a backup quarterback.

While backing up quarterbacks like Russell Wilson in Seattle and Kyler Murray in Arizona had intrigue, joining Rhule in his first season heading up the Panthers seemed to make the most sense. Rhule and Walker won together at Temple and Rhule knows exactly what he is getting in Walker and how to get the best out of him.

Walker will know the offense and the verbiage better than even anticipated starter Teddy Bridgewater, who was recently signed by the Panthers to replace Cam Newton.

Walker had spent parts of the past few seasons as a practice squad quarterback with the Indianapolis Colts, but the 5-foot-11 quarterback lacked any meaningful snaps and playing experience during that time.

Walker, however, finally got those opportunities in his debut with the rebooted XFL this season. And he did not disappoint. The dual-threat quarterback showed his ability to lead a team with minimum errors, guiding the Roughnecks to a 5-0 start while completing nearly 65% of his passes for 1,338 yards and throwing for 15 touchdowns and just four interceptions and running for another 99 yards and a touchdown.

Walker became the league’s best player in its season that was shortened due to the coronavirus pandemic.

When the XFL canceled its season earlier this month it said that players could immediately start signing with NFL teams.

P.J. Walker

Alicia Pete shakes hand with a PV supporter.

PVAMU ATHLETIC DIRECTOR WANTS

GIRL POWER

Terrance Harris

One thing Alicia Pete has is purpose.

As the interim athletic director at her alma mater, Prairie View A&M University, she takes pride in helping student athletes be the best they can be in the classroom and on the playing field. Another broader purpose Pete has is being an inspiration and help to other women who want to succeed in the male-dominated career as a senior athletic administrator.

“I think we all need to understand is that we need to have more girl power,” said Pete, who came to PVAMU on a basketball and volleyball scholarship and later coached bowling and volleyball for the Panthers.

“I want the young student athletes, the females, to understand that if this is something they want to do in life they need to work hard and don’t give up. There are not a lot of women in the position of interim athletic director or even athletic director or commissioner so a lot of females just feel like it’s a man power.

“But I think if you set your goals and reach your goals you can actually go where you want to go.”

To back up her words, Pete has become a mentor to a few women and even a young man who have all made their

I know what our studentathletes need.

I know what I needed when I was a student-athlete.

We didn’t even have an academic program. Just the things that I didn’t have that I know that they would need.”

Alicia Pete

PVAMU sports stats Sports categories: 18 Student-athletes: 420 Athletic budget: $7 million

desires known to work in a senior athletic administrative role. It’s not enough for her talk it, so Pete has been more than willing to walk the walk.

“At this point I’ve started to delegate and test this person out just to see where their challenge is or if they have any challenges,” said Pete, referring to a man and woman she currently works with.

Pete, who was appointed interim athletic director in July 2019, is reaching back while also hoping to claim the permanent athletic director title at PVAMU. The school is currently accepting applications for the role until March 26 at which point a committee will interview and recommend candidates for university President Ruth Simmons to consider.

When asked would she like to be considered for the permanent role, she answered in the affirmative.

“If the opportunity is given I would say yes,” answered Pete, who has worked in the PVAMU athletic department as either a coach or senior women’s administrator the last 33 years. “There are a lot of things I can do to improve the program but if not my ultimate goal is to become a commissioner.”

Follow Terrance Harris on Twitter @terranceharris.

March 26, 2020 |

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DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports What’s next for HISD athletics?

Athletic Director Andre Walker speaks on coronavirus

Jodie B. Jiles

With the coronavirus pandemic leading to the closing of HISD and cancellation of games along with all other district athletic programs, what’s is next for high school sports?

HISD winter sports took a hit when the Yates High School boys’ basketball team, which was No. 1 team in Texas for Class 4A, was unable to get a redemption shot at a Texas championship when the UIL cancelled the state tournament due to the coronavirus spread. In addition, the soccer playoffs were canceled.

The Defender spoke with HISD athletic director Andre Walker, who has held the position since 2018, to discuss the issue at hand.

Defender: What are HISD’s plans for the remainder of the year regarding athletics?

Walker: Right now that is an unknown because we don’t know what is going to happen or when we will be able to go back to school or if we will be able to go back to school. So now we are focusing on our plans for next year with the understanding that if we have to pick up the ball and get back in this year we are ready to do that as well.

Defender: How do you think this will impact HISD athletics moving forward?

Walker: Our coaches are going to have to still handle the kids, so, that is an impact in itself because our coaches have so much influence on our athletes. From what they are doing, to what they are eating and the preparation of preparing for spring ball...

It is a major impact, but do understand our coaches are calling our kids just to make sure they are doing alright. Because that is the number one deal. “How are the kids doing? How are they managing this?”

Defender: What advice would you give graduating seniors who might miss out on the opportunity to showcase their talents this spring?

Walker: They have to continue to work

out and eat right. Our hopes are that they will be able to get back in and the season will be shortened. We hope they can still have those opportunities again. But in HISD AD the mean time they need to Andre continue to work out and be Walker ready for whatever happens.

Just be ready because they won’t have time to get ready this season.

So, be prepared for what is next.”

Defender: What advice do you have for the parents of student-athletes?

Walker: Just continue to push them.

Make them get up, go out and get their work in whether it is inside or outside in the back or front yard. While at the same time exercising caution and being socially distant…Parents also want to keep their child mentally focused which is really hard to do, but they need to be mentally focused for whatever happens.

Defender: Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?

Walker: Stay prayerful, be supportive and know that whatever decisions are made are made in the best interests of everybody.”

DID YOU KNOW?

Yates graduating senior and multi-sport athlete Clarence Jiles gets his work in with daily push-ups while HISD is closed.

The 2020 NFL Draft is stacked with greater Houston area talent, particularly in the first two rounds according to experts. Here is a sneak peek at some of the local names to be called sooner than later at the NFL Draft on April 23rd - 25th.

C.D. LAMB Wide Receiver

GRANT DELPHIT Safety

JALEN HURTS Quarterback

• University of Oklahoma • (Richmond) Foster HS, Richmond, TX

• Louisiana State University • Lamar HS, New Orleans, LA (relocated to Houston, TX after Katrina)

• University of Oklahoma • Channelview HS, Channelview, TX

K’LAVON CHAISSON Outside Linebacker • Louisiana State University • North Shore HS, Houston, TX

MARVIN WILSON Defensive Tackle

JOSHUA JONES Left Tackle

• Florida State University • (Bellaire) Episcopal HS, Bellaire, TX

• University of Houston • George Bush HS, Richmond, TX

ANTOINE WINFIELD JR. Safety • University of Minnesota • The Woodlands HS, Woodlands, TX

12 | March 26, 2020 |

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