Houston Defender: April 30, 2020

GET HELP WITH YOUR BILLS Find out how companies are helping consumers with their bills during COVID-19.

SPORTS

CEEDEE LAMB

This wide receiver led the pack of Houston area football talent the NFL selected during the 2020 draft.

Volume 89, issue 27 April 30, 2020

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NEWS

GREG ABBOTT The governor put more meat on the bone of his “Re-open Texas� plan for the coming weeks.

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DN On the web

FIT & FINE

People wait for a distribution of masks and food. -AP/ Bebeto Matthews

Gretchen Jèan Age: 58 Occupation: Sr. admin. assistant/Div. business manager, collegiate dance coach Education: University of North Texas Major: Communications Motto: “Live out your eulogy…be who you needed when you were younger.”

I LOVE… Dancing, teaching COVID-19 virtual aerobic classes, and helping others achieve their goals.

IG: @coachgee5 Facebook: @fit.maxwithgretchen Read more on Friday about Gretchen at defendernetwork.com If you are Fit & Fine email: fitnfine@defendernetwork.com

Message from the Editor This week we’ve got a lot going on in the news.

So we decided to look at some ways you can keep up with your beauty regimen at home. And because we want to continue to support our stylists, who are small business owners, check out the tips on how you can still help the pros in your life during this trying time.

Texas re-opens Texas has begun the process of re-opening, phasing in a multi-pronged plan to get the economy going again.

While we are all tired of being inside, I don’t know about heading out to the Where’s my money? malls and restaurants We tried to do an inforwhen we’ve yet to see our mal poll on who’s received numbers going down. stimulus checks and who While we don’t buy into hasn’t. We discovered some conspiracy theothere’s no rhyme or reason ries that they’re opento the payouts! Some peoing up places to kill off ple who had all their info Black folks (hair salons, correct are still waiting. nail shops, etc.), we can’t Others saw direct deposReShonda Tate help but look at the dispaits immediately. Check Billingsley rate numbers of African out irs.gov/getmypayment Americans dying (8 out to find out where your of 10 in Houston alone). That is reason money is. enough to stay home. And if you do go out, as State Rep. Senfronia Thompson Minority businesses says, “Stay six feet away so you don’t hope for help in round 2 have to go six feet under!”

I was stunned to read a recent report from the Center for Responsible LendBills, bills, bills! ing that roughly 95% of Black-owned How to get help businesses stand close to no chance of The coronavirus pandemic has devas- receiving a Paycheck Protection Protated the economy. We provide a look at gram loan through a mainstream bank how various companies and entities are or credit union. Many diverse business giving customers a helping hand. Times owners applied for loans through the are hard and many businesses are taking Small Business Administration proheed. Don’t suffer in silence. Check out gram, only to come up empty because our extensive list and get help. they either didn’t qualify or the funds had been exhausted by the time their DIY quarantine applications were processed. This is combeauty regimen pletely unacceptable and we’re praying Social isolation hasn’t just upended for a better outcome now that Congress our work and personal lives. It’s also dis- has approved round two for funding. rupted a lot of our self-care and beauty routines. While I love my stylist, it will Defender donor campaign be a minute before I go sit in his chair.

When I graduated from the University

of Texas at Austin, I was looking for a journalism job and came across an ad for a reporter for the Defender Newspaper in Houston. I got the job, even though I told the publisher, Sonny Messiah Jiles that my heart was in TV. She told me, “Well, we’ll just have to figure out how to make that happen.” And she did. And then she supported me as I went off and worked at several TV stations, wrote books, started a publishing company -- always letting me continue to freelance, and “come home” whenever I needed to. I’m home for good now, but the Defender is more than a job. This is family. That’s why watching the 90-year-old paper struggle from the weight of COVID-19 is heartbreaking.

During this trying time, it may be hard for people to financially support a cause, but if you can donate anything, it would be much appreciated. Thank you to all who have already given to help keep the Defender legacy alive. Donate at Bit.ly/ defendercovid.

Parents check-in By the way, parents that are home-schooling, y’all all right? Personally, I’m ready to tell my 12-year-old to just focus on his rap career. Make sure you’re taking care of your own mental health while you’re taking care of everyone else.

Let us know what you think Are you following us on social media? We love having active discussions on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @defendernetwork. Come and join in the discussions. Also, if you have people, entertainers or business owners we need to feature, let us know via Facebook or Twitter.

April 30, 2020 |

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DEFENDER NETWORK

DN News Ron Price resigns as secretary from TSU Board of Regents after explosive rant caught on tape.

Hear the audio at www.DefenderNetwork.com.

Dr. Austin Lane one of two finalists for Southern Illinois University chancellor.

Program helps low-income families Churches provide services to inmate households Defender News Service

Bishop James Dixon II, pastor of Community of Faith, and other ministers are partnering with the Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez on an Inmate Family Adoption Project. The new project identifies needy families within the zip codes of local churches. The ministers and congregations of each church in respective zip codes will gather to deliver food and other household supplies to families in need. In addition, the churches will provide counseling, mentoring, and other support services.

Dixon calls it, “Compassion In Action.”

Participating ministers include Harvest Time Church Bishop Sheldon Bady, Powerhouse Church of God in Christ Bishop Johnny Tates, Mt. Sinai Baptist Church Dr. Sam Gilbert II, Greenhouse International Church Pastor E.A. Deckard, Christ Missionary Baptist Church Pastor Billy Williams, The Word Church Pastor Jamail Johnson, Mt. Herman M.B.C. Pastor Trevy Washington, Household of Faith Community Church Dr. Kenneth Campbell, The Yale Street Baptist Church Pastor T. Leon Prestor, New Life Tabernacle Church of God in Christ Pastor Carl Davis and Gods Grace Community Church Pastor Isaac Matthews.

For more information call 832-767-9419 or email mickey_mouton@icloud.com Bishop James Dixon II

PVAMU virtual commencement ceremony May 9 Defender News Service

Prairie View A&M University will hold a virtual commencement ceremony for the Class of Spring 2020. In light of the coronavirus crisis, the university commencement committee has created a safer alternative to honor the academic achievements of 910 graduates.

James A. Wilson, Jr., Ph.D., university commencement chairman, said because of the pandemic pivot that PVAMU and the world have made, the committee chose “PVAMU Stronger Together” as the graduation’s celebration theme.

“The Commencement Steering Committee selected this because we know that the Panther Nation will emerge from these challenging times even more resilient and determined to continue the legacies of our great university,” he said.

If current restrictions banning large gatherings are lifted, the Spring 2020 graduates will be able to participate in a traditional commencement ceremony in August. The university plans to merge the spring ceremony with the August graduation ceremony.

PVAMU’S “A CELEBRATION OF OUR GRADUATES” Date: Saturday, May 9 Time: 10 a.m.

Link to view: www.pvamu.edu/ commencement

Mickey Leland statue unveiled in Hermann Park Defender News Service

Mayor Sylvester Turner, Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, Alison Leland and two U.S. Congress members recently unveiled a statue honoring the late Congressman Mickey Leland, a global humanitarian who devoted his life to helping others.

Leland, born Nov. 27, 1944, in Lubbock, and 15 others died in a plane crash on Aug. 7, 1989, while on a humanitarian mission to Fugnido, Ethiopia. He served six terms in Congress and six years as a Texas state legislator. He focused his political career on issues such as health and hunger.

The statue was installed in Hermann Park on the west plaza of Miller Outdoor Theatre. The project was a partnership between Harris County Precinct One, City of Houston and its Parks and Recreation Department and Houston First.

The project to erect the statue began in 2018 when Harris County Commissioners Court, at the request of Ellis, approved the sculpture’s creation. In 2019, Commissioners Court approved a contract with artist Edward “Ed” Joseph Dwight Jr. to create the statue.

VOLUME 89 - ISSUE 27 - APRIL 30, 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

The Mickey Leland statue sits in Herman Park.

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DEFENDER NETWORK

DN News

What state re-open plan means for you Aswad Walker

The plan to re-open Texas businesses recently unveiled

by Gov. Greg Abbott will take place in stages, with Phase 1 starting May 1. Businesses approved to re-open will be limited to 25% occupancy in their stores or face a $1,000 fine or 180 days in jail.

Referring to his earlier executive order that put stay-at-home orders in place until April 30, Abbott said, “That executive order has done its job to slow the spread of COVID-19, and I will let it expire as Gov. Greg scheduled. Now it’s time to set a new Abbott course; a course that responsibly opens up business in Texas.

Retailers

Businesses approved to re-open include all retail stores.

Retailers are encouraged to dedicate certain time periods daily for at-risk customers only, and to promote contactless payments. While malls will be open, their food court dining areas, play areas and interactive displays will remain closed.

Restaurants

Restaurant dine-in parties are required to maintain six feet distance from other parties, including while waiting to be seated. Moreover, no more than six people will be allowed per table.

Theaters

At movie theaters, customers are expected to keep at least two empty seats (six feet) between parties in a row. However, two or more members of the same party can sit next to one another. Additionally, every other row will remain empty for movie-goers.

Libraries & museums

During Phase 1, all museums and libraries can re-open under the same 25% occupancy and six feet of separation between customers guidelines, though they must keep closed any exhibits that have interactive elements, including child play areas.

Locally run public museums and libraries may operate only if permitted by the local government.

Healthcare professionals

Worship services

OPENING DURING PHASE 1, MAY 1 Retail stores Restaurants Movie theaters Malls Sole proprietors Libraries Museums Healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses, dentists) • Non-contact sports (up to four participants) • Funerals, burials, memorials • • • • • • • •

The green light has also been given to healthcare professionals to return to work with few restrictions.

“Doctors, nurses, dentists; they need to get back to work.

But more importantly, patients need to get back in to see those doctors, nurses and dentists,” said Abbott, who added that all licensed hospitals must still reserve 15% capacity for COVID-19 patients.

Churches and other houses of worship are expected to designate reserved areas for at-risk populations or offer an “at-risk only” service. As in movie theaters, worshippers are expected to keep at least two seats empty (six feet) between parties in any row, expect for members of the same household. Parishioners are also expected to sit on alternating rows.

The same minimal standard health protocols (six feet separation, face coverings encouraged) apply to funerals, burials and memorials.

Sports

Non-contact, outdoor sports are allowed to resume. However, such activities can include no more than four participants at a time. Golf and tennis are okay. Basketball and football are not.

Testing

The re-open plan seeks to redouble efforts to “protect our most vulnerable senior citizens.”

During the announcement of his “re-open Texas” plan, Abbott said individuals 65 and over are “just over 20% of the Texans who test positive for COVID-19 but more than 75% of the deaths.”

If testing reveals no new spikes in hospital visits and deaths, Phase 2 will begin by May 18, with businesses allowed to expand to 50% occupancy.

View the plan at gov.texas.gov/opentexas.

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DEFENDER NETWORK

DN InFocus FOCUS SOCIAL HOW COMPANIES ARE HELPING CONSUMERS Clyde Jiles and Marilyn Marshall

are not federal loans. Contact your lender to confirm. Info: www.studentaid.gov Private Lenders – Many private lenders are offering automatic financial relief.

Contact your student loan servicer and explain your situation. Ask for a flexible repayment option. Note: Sallie Mae is a private lender. https://www.salliemae.com/ landing/coronavirus/

The coronavirus pandemic has devastated the economy, leading to massive unemployment, business closings and mounting debt. Here is a look at how various companies and entities are giving customers a helping hand: AUTOMAKERS Ford – Customers who purchased or leased vehicles through Ford Credit may be eligible to change payment due date or delay payment on case-by-case basis. Info: 1-800-723-4016 or www.ford.com General Motors – Late fees assessed on GM Financial loans and leases from March 1 through May 31 will be waived. Info: 1-800-284-2271 or www.gmfinancial.com Honda – Late-fee waivers, payment extensions and deferrals available for Honda Financial Services account holders. Info: www.hondafinancialservices.com Nissan – Retail and lease customers could receive payment extensions or defer Nissan Motor Acceptance Corporation payments. Info: 1-800-456-6622 or www. nissanusa.com/coronavirus.html Toyota – Toyota Financial Services customers can inquire about payment deferrals or extensions. Info: 1-800-874-8822 or www.toyotafinancial.com CREDIT CARD COMPANIES American Express – Options include lower monthly payments, temporary lower interest rates, relief from late payment fees, past-due account prevention. Info: 1-866703-4169 or www.americanexpress.com Capital One – Assistance includes waiving fees or deferring payments. Info: 1-800-227-4825 or www.capitalone.com Chase – Customers can delay up to three payments. Info: www.chase.com/digital/resources/coronavirus Citibank – Will waive minimum payment due requirement and late fees for two statement cycles. Non-delinquent accounts will be reported as current. Info: www.citibank.com Discover – Support varies by consumer: card, online banking or personal, home or student loan customers. Info: www.discover.com/coronavirus/#covid-faq *Note: Mastercard & Visa credit cards are issued through banks. Check with your bank on payment arrangements.

HOUSING

Mortgage Companies

Bank of America – Can provide payment deferrals or payment forbearances (postponement) for at least three months.

UTILITIES

Cable/Phone

Has paused foreclosure sales, evictions, repossessions. Info: 1-800-669-6650 or www.bankofamerica.com Fannie Mae – Forebearance plan offers reduction or suspension of mortgage payments of up to 12 months, in increments of up to six months. Includes late fee relief and repayment options. Info: www.fanniemae.com Freddie Mac – Offers forbearance for up to 12 months and modification options that lower payments or keep payments the same after forbearance period. Waives assessments of penalties and late fees, halts foreclosure actions and evictions of borrowers until at least May 17. Info: www.freddiemac.com Quicken Loans – Offers temporary pause of mortgage payments for initial period of three months; payments will not be reported as late. Info: 1-800-251-9080 or www.quickenloans.com Wells Fargo – Offers temporary pause of loan payments for initial three months.

Late fees will not be charged and additional missed payments will not be reported.

Past due accounts will not be referred to foreclosure. Info: 1-800-219-9739 or www.wellsfargo.com Renters

In Texas, the state Supreme Court has halted most eviction proceedings until April 30. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act, which provided $2 trillion in aid, included a 120-day moratorium on eviction filings on renters in homes covered by federally backed mortgages.

The National Low Income Housing Coalition launched a searchable database that lets people check whether a federal moratorium on certain penalties, which lasts until Aug. 23, applies to where they live. After that period, a landlord still has to provide 30 days’ notice before residents must vacate the property.Info: nlihc.org/federal-moratoriums Other resources:

• Houston Apartment Association, www.haaonline.org

• Houston Housing Authority, www.housingforhouston.com • Texas Apartment Association, www.taa.org INSURANCE COMPANIES Allstate – Auto, home and powersport customers can request special plans delaying payments without penalty. Personal auto insurance customers will receive 15% back based on monthly premiums in April, May. Info: 1-877-810-2920 or www.allstate.com Geico – Paused cancellation of coverage due to non-payment and policy expiration through at least May 31. Giving auto, motorcycle and RV policyholders 15% credit on next six-month or 12-month policy term.

Info: 1-800-207-7847 or www.geico.com Liberty Mutual – Stopped charging late fees and temporarily paused personal auto and home coverage cancellations due to non-payment through at least June 1. Personal auto insurance customers will receive 15% refund on two months of premium. Info: 1-800-290-7933 or www.libertymutual.com Progressive – Waiving late fees, pausing collections and not canceling or non-renewing active policies due to non-payment through May 15. Personal auto policyholders receiving 20% premium credit for April, May. Info: 1-800- 776-4737 or www.progressive.com State Farm – On average, most customers will see a 25% policy credit. Please contact your State Farm Agent to discuss assistance options. https://www.statefarm. com/agent/ Info: 1-800-782-8332 or www. statefarm.com STUDENT LOANS Federal Student Aid – Payments automatically stopped from March 13-Sept.

30. Interest rate is 0% on defaulted and non-defaulted direct loans, defaulted and non-defaulted FFEL Program loans, Federal Perkins Loans. No debt collection for defaulted loans. Note: All student loans

AT&T – For the next 60 days (as of March 13, 2020), AT&T will not terminate service and will waive late payment fees for any wireless, home phone or broadband customer due to inability to pay their bill. Info: 1-800-288-2020 or www.att.com/help/covid-19/ Sprint – Customers must make payment arrangements which allow eligible customers additional time to pay the balance. Info: 1-888-211-4727 or www.sprint.com T-Mobile – Customers must make payment arrangements to temporarily waive late fees and suspend-and-restore. Info: 1-800-937-8997 or www.t-mobile.com Xfinity – Internet Essentials Service new customers will get 60 days complimentary. Xfinity will not disconnect a customer’s internet or mobile service for nonpayment, and we will not impose late fees if they contact us and let us know that they can’t pay their bills during this period. Info: 1-800-XFINITY or https://corporate.comcast.com/covid-19 Verizon – Will waive late fees and overage charges for 60 days from March 16 to May 13 for customers and small businesses* who let us know they are unable to pay as a result of economic hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and we will not terminate service to those customers.

Info: 1 (800) 922-0204 or www.verizonwireless.com Electric

Reliant – Will give everyone in our communities access to the electricity they need during this trying time, regardless of their financial circumstances.

If you’ve been financially affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, contact us 24/7 to learn about our CARE program, payment extensions, and deferred payment plans..

Info: 1-866-222-7100 or www.reliant.com TXU Energy – Is waiving late fees, extending payment due dates with no down payment required, reducing down payments and deferring balances over five equal installments. Info: 1-800-242-9113 or www.txu.com

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DN InFocus FOCUS SOCIAL

Do It Yourself

QUARANTINE BEAUTY REGIMEN Be realistic You don’t have to be a pro in most cases, but know there’s a reason you pay your stylist the big bucks. You should know going in that the quality of your efforts may not be the same (and that’s okay). At-home grooming is enough to get you by until social distancing and shutdowns end.

READERS WEIGH IN

HELPING OUT-OF-WORK BEAUTY PROS

How some people are weathering the isolation storm.

Many professionals in the beauty industry have been forced to close shop for the foreseeable future and lay off employees. Since they only make money when they’re working in a salon with clients, it has become a struggle to make ends meet and pay bills while they are out of work for an undetermined amount of time. Some stylists are also concerned that this new era of doing-it-yourself, will lead to people getting comfortable and giving up on the pros altogether.

If you’d like to support beauty professionals, here are a few tips:

“I removed my nails last night. Acetone was taking too long. I saw a YouTube video on how to remove my nails with Zipper Stripper sewing supplies. It did the trick.”

– Paulette Harper “I soaked my nails off a couple weeks ago. My daughter and I are keeping our hair in two strands twists until further notice. Wash, condition, moisturize and retwist every week. I did teach her how to do box braids a few weeks ago.”

– Staci Vilts White

Buy gift cards to use later: Purchase them from your salon to use at a later date when it’s safe to go back to a salon.

“Bought a gel nail lamp and drill it arrived today from Amazon.” – Theia Brown

Pay them for a future service: If your beauty professional isn’t currently working, you can CashApp, Venmo, or Zelle them funds for a future appointment to help them have some income now.

“I am a nail salon girl...in the meantime and in between time, I’m making due with Color Street nail applications. It’s real polish in strip form that you just stick on your nails. They last between 7-14 days and you just remove it with polish remover.

Quick and easy to apply and I feel like I actually wanna look at my nails now.”

– I.J. Johnson

Do a Skype or Facetime appointment at home: If you’re not sure how to do a hair or skin treatment and want a professional’s advice, ask if you can pay them to help you over the phone or via video chat.

your hair alone. “You can groom or touch up your current shape, but don’t attempt an entire new cut or style,” said Wanda Anderson with Serenity Studios.

Tackling the gray One of the fastest growing industries during the shutdown is hair dye. While some are embracing their gray, many can’t bear the Keep it healthy site of nature taking its course in their head.

Experts say to focus on keeping your hair But local hair stylists are pretty clear when it clean and conditioned between appointcomes to tackling your gray, leave your hair ments. “For maintaining hair at home, always color to the professionals. try to use the same products your stylist uses.

“If you are used to going If you have no access to the to a salon/stylist, only use products, always ask your spray on color if you have stylist what she suggests. It it; (Walmart, Walgreens,etc is never good to just pick should have it),” said Tami something off the shelf espeVienn of Elige Salon in Third cially because it smells good,” Ward. “If you use any type For maintaining Vienn said. of semi permanent, rinse, or hair at home, box color you will ruin the always try to Break out the color of your gray or natural accessories use the same hair and it requires extensive Accessories will extend color correction, which is products your the appearance of your style extremely difficult to correct stylist uses. while having salon withon gray hair.” drawal. A headband will If you have push overgrown bangs out no access to Cutting your hair of your way for a fresh look.

If you’re in need of a hair- the products, Try a bun for a polished look cut, it’s also best to save that always ask your with a scrunchie. For ponyfor the pros. In the mean- stylist what she tail lovers, slick back the time, Anderson says, you front of the hair for a clean suggests.” can focus on taking care of look and decorate the back Tami Vienn with a large printed scarf. your hair at home so it’ll be healthy when it’s time to go to the salon again. If you do decide to cut, Doing your nails just trim it, and always do it on dry hair You can recreate a nail salon experience at only. Solicit help from family members so home with the right tools, although you may not you don’t have to even try to cut the back of be able to do a gel manicure or a professional

“Using quarantine as an opportunity to buy and try new hair products and hair styles every few days. Also, using a pedicure kit, tub, Epsom salt, Listerine combo for at-home pedicures. Managing just fine...” – Nicole Scott

dip manicure. Start with clean nails and a quality base coat/top coat and polish. File nails gently in one direction and then buff. Gently push back cuticles. Massage nails with hand cream and remove the residue. Apply a base coat, let it dry, and apply a color in thin strokes down the middle and both sides. Follow with a top coat. At-home manicures can also be a fun and relaxing activity. You can get your daughters or mom to join in.

At-home waxing For most people waxing is nixed for the foreseeable future as salons have closed. You can stick to shaving or trimming at home for the time being, but you can also try a variety of at-home waxing options — if you’re brave enough.

Beauty pro, Lisa James advises novice waxers to avoid the more serious hot wax products. But if you have some experience with them, her recommendation is Sally Hansen Microwave Hard Wax. “It’s so easy to use — and efficient. You literally pop it into the microwave for one minute and your wax is instantly ready for use. I will note though, this is for the more experienced waxers. I would not recommend doing it if it’s your first time and have no real experience waxing. Wax strips are best for beginners,” James says.

“I graduated from YouTube Protective Styles with a certificate. I had hair for an appointment (before this), so I used it. Used the rubber band method to put in twists. I will say for the first time I did a decent job. If I needed to go out, no need for a headwrap anymore. My stylists need to beware; if I have to do this a few more times, they won’t be seeing much of me.”

– Bonita Lee Penn “My hair is still holding up for now. I have never applied a relaxer or color to my own hair myself and I don’t believe this is the time to start. I have short hair and have never worn a scarf to bed, but I am now finding a scarf to be helpful in keeping the new growth flat!” – Jackie Simien “I’m about to braid it up. YouTube is a lifesaver. The only issue I’ve had was getting the extra products I’ve needed. I think it’s also a good time to experiment with different things that I wouldn’t have done if I went out every day. I’m having a little bit of fun with it. Also learning how to cut my sons’ hair.” – Nicole Bird Lester “Had to go back 15 years to my cosmetology days. Found a distributor to bring supplies to my door step...no kinks for me!” – QianaJoi James “I soaked my dip off...warm up that acetone a bit. It works faster.”

– Bridgette Wilkins “I bought a pair of clippers and cut all my hair off. Something I had been afraid to do. Best decision I’ve made. I wish I had done it sooner. It’s healthy and looks sooo good.” – Shuronda Robinson “So far I’ve given myself a manicure and clipped and filed my toenails (no polish) ... waxed brows, lip and chin. I [might start] saving that $150 a month!”

– Stephanie Alfred

Adobe Stock

T

he quarantine has upended our work and personal lives, in turn disrupting a lot of our self-care and beauty routines. With hairstylists, manicurists and aestheticians on lockdown with the rest of us, many are having to resort to “do-it-yourself ” beauty regimens.

Having a pro help you do your hair, nails, and waxing has become a luxury for many.

With the quarantine, there are a few things to keep in mind as you tackle your beauty needs yourself.

ReShonda Tate Billingsley

“My stylist put together kits w/products she uses, i.e. shampoo, conditioner, wrapping foam, oils, etc. She ships it to you overnight. Once I used her products I was good. My hair came out great.”

– Tyla Gordon-Mapp “Nails are fragile and short. I took my braids out. Lord why did I do that? Anyway, I attempted to relax my natural hair...EPIC FAILURE. So my roots are straight and the ends are curls. I’ve also ‘trimmed’ my ends twice and now I’m bald headed.”

– Esperita Edwards Garrison

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DEFENDER NETWORK

DN InFocus FOCUS SOCIAL

Carol Guess

Ingrid Robinson

Paycheck Protection Program Round 2 Margo Williams Hubbard

Round two of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) has begun with an additional $310 billion designated to help small businesses keep employees on the payroll. To help level the playing field, $60 billion has been set aside for minority- and women-owned businesses through community banks, credit unions and alternative lending companies.

This time around, the Small Business Administration (SBA) has tried to close the loopholes that allowed wealthy organizations to rake in the money during round one.

Aside from acting fast, what else can Black-owned businesses do to be funded?

The Defender interviewed Ingrid Robinson, president of the Houston Minority Supplier Development Council, and Carol Guess, president of the Greater Houston Black Chamber, who shared best practices and tips to improve the chances for PPP funding in round two.

Defender: What is the best way for Black small businesses to apply for PPP round two?

Robinson: The best way to get a PPP

loan is wherever you have a relationship.

If you have a strong relationship with your bank and they are willing to work quickly on your behalf, that is the best route. If you are not that fortunate, HMSDC can help. As part of our advocacy efforts for minority businesses, we have a strong relationship with regional banks and Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), which are non-profit banks.

For example, I received a call from a CDFI asking if we had MBEs that could not get processed through their banks and, if so, to send them their way. I would advise minority-owned businesses to pick up the phone and give us a call [713-271-7805]. We have all sorts of resources including private grants posted in the COVID-19 resource section of our website at www.hmsdc.org.

Guess: It is best for businesses to apply for the second round as soon as possible and to utilize services like Operation Hope (www.operationhope.org), a non-profit organization that will help business owners correctly fill out the EIDL loan application at no cost.

Defender: Are there any application “tips” you can share?

Robinson: If you were in business in

2019, the program is designed to look at your average payroll over the course of that year. Many payroll entities like ADP have created a report that you can download and it pulls all the information you need into one single report, making it easy to calculate the amount you are entitled to apply for.

Remember, while you can use PPP funds to pay rent, utilities, telephone and internet

BANKING CENTERS Regarding banks, we are told that several are only working with their current customers. Following is a list of banks that will work with companies without a current banking relationship and have worked favorably with minority business owners related to the PPP loan: • Unity National Bank • Wallis Bank • Mint National Bank • First Financial Bank • Third Coast Bank • Woodforest National Bank • Texas Gulf Bank • First Texas Bank • CelticBank • Tech companies accepting applications: Kabbage, Bluevine, Crossriver, OnDeck, Veem, PayPal, Nav, Lendio and Divvy

charges, you can only be awarded based on payroll and benefits.

Most importantly, you want to maintain the same number of employees for which you applied over the next eight weeks after funding so the loan will be forgiven. This is not an automatic forgiveness; however, you must maintain those employees to request and be granted forgiveness of the loan. HMSDC has a PPP worksheet on our COVID-19 Resource page that can be used to figure out the calculation.

Guess: The following are some do’s and don’ts to avoid PPP loan rejection: (1) Do

not submit more than one application. (2) Do have complete financials, including correct bank account numbers. (3) Do make sure child support payments are up to date. (4) Do what you can to close out any bankruptcies.

Defender: Are third-party lenders and organizations like Sean “Diddy” Combs’ “Our Fair Share” platform helpful?

Robinson: I believe any resource that helps minority-owned businesses understand how to apply for a PPP loan is a good thing. There are local banks like Unity who are a part of the National Bankers Association and have prioritized financing minority business owners for decades. The criteria for applying for the PPP loan is the same no matter where you go. The advantage is finding an institution that will ensure your paperwork is completed correctly, can expedite SBA review, and prioritize the processing of your loan quickly before funds are depleted again.

Guess: Small businesses should use any reputable help they can get. I would suggest checking the comments posted regarding any organization working with business owners to complete applications, and also try tested businesses resources such as the Small Business Development Center (www. sbdc.uh.edu). These organizations have webinars available to help business owners with both EIDL and PPP applications on its website. Our chamber will also host a webinar for members regarding the EIDL loan application.

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DEFENDER NETWORK

DN InFocus FOCUS SOCIAL

Comcast program keeps residents connected Defender News Service

Comcast is helping Houstonians stay connected to the internet as more schools announced extended online learning and companies continue to encourage employees to work from home due to the Coronavirus.

“As we all navigate through this pandemic, we recognize that our company plays an important role in helping our customers stay connected—their families, their workplaces, their schools and the latest information about the virus—through the Internet,” said Michael Bybee, external communications director for Comcast’s Houston region. “Connectivity matters right now more than ever, so we’re doing all we can to deliver the most accessible and reliable internet experience possible.”

Comcast is taking steps to implement the following new policies for the next 60 days, and other important initiatives: Xfinity WiFi Free For Everyone

Xfinity WiFi hotspots across the country will be available to anyone who needs them for free – including non-Xfinity Internet subscribers. For a map of Xfinity WiFi hotspots, visit www.xfinity.com/wifi. Once at a hotspot, consumers should select the “xfin-

itywifi” network name in the list of available hotspots, and then launch a browser.

Pausing Data Plan

While the vast majority of customers do not come close to using 1TB of data in a month, Comcast is pausing data plans for 60 days giving all customers Unlimited data for no additional charge.

service was increased to 25 Mbps downstream and 3 Mbps upstream. That increase will go into effect for no additional fee and it will become the new base speed for the program going forward.

News, Information and Educational Content on X1 and Flex

No Disconnects or Late Fees

A customer’s internet service will not be disconnected or assessed a late fees if they contact Comcast and say that they can’t pay their bills during this period. Representatives will offer flexible payment options and can help find other solutions.

Internet Essentials Free to New Customers

Low income families who live in a Comcast service area to sign-up for Internet Essentials, the nation’s largest and most comprehensive broadband adoption program. New customers will receive 60 days of complimentary Internet Essentials service, which is normally available to all qualified low-income households for $9.95/month. Additionally, for all new and existing Internet Essentials customers, the speed of the program’s Internet

For those with school-age students at home, Comcast has created new educational collections for all grade levels in partnership with Common Sense Media. Customers can also get the most current news and information on Coronavirus by saying “Coronavirus” into their X1 or Flex voice remote.

MY SKIN COLOR SHOULD NOT RESTRICT WHERE I CAN RENT. To learn more about fair housing contact the Fair Housing Hotline at 832.394.6200 or visit www.houstontx.gov/housing

Congratulations!

FORT BEND ISD’S 2020

ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY TEACHERS OF THE YEAR Fort Bend ISD applauds its outstanding 2020 District Teachers of the Year. Kelly Stavinoha from Madden Elementary and Janet Menzie from Clements High School represent excellence in education.

Both deserve this honor because of their dedication to ensuring all students reach their full potential.

FBISD would like to recognize ALL of its teachers who are going above and beyond supporting our nearly 79,000 students during the COVID-19 pandemic. To all of them, we say thank you!

To the entire FBISD Community,

We express our sincere gratitude for your continued support and partnership.

Though we are not together in our traditional setting, we remain united in our mission – to inspire and equip all students for futures beyond what they can imagine. fortbendisd.com

Stay up to date on social

10 | April 30, 2020 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports

TEXANS PLUG MAJOR HOLES WITH DRAFT

By Terrance Harris

Texans head coach and general manager Bill O’Brien definitely had to approach this year’s NFL draft much differently than in the past.

The COVID-19 pandemic forced NFL teams and draft-eligible players to forgo face-to-face meetings after social distancing became a thing in mid-March and then the three-day daft was done virtually. But the Texans overcame all obstacles and nuances to address some major needs – particularly on the defensive front – while leaving us scratching our heads on a couple of the picks.

Void of a first-round pick because of last season’s trade with Miami for left tackle Laremy Tunsil, who reached a deal with the team over the weekend, the Texans made a couple of instant impact selections in the second and third rounds with TCU former Elkins standout defensive lineman Ross Blacklock (40th overall) and edge rusher Jonathan Greenard (90th overall) out of Florida.

O’Brien, who made three trades during the third day of the draft, added some depth and perhaps some building blocks for the future with fourth round selections of offensive tackle Charlie Heck (126th overall) and cornerback John Reid (141st overall) and fifth- round pick Isaiah Coulter (171st overall).

We targeted certain guys in the draft and obviously we didn’t get all of them, you never do, but we were able to get five that we really liked and I feel really good about that.”

Bill O’Brien

“We targeted certain guys in the draft and obviously we didn’t get all of them, you never do, but we were able to get five that we really liked and I feel really good about that,” said O’Brien, who began the process of bringing aboard undrafted college free agents immediately following the draft.

“I do think that’s a good point that you’re mak-

ing relative to the free agents that are still out there.

That’s why I’m saying there’s still a lot of opportunities to build the roster in different ways as we head on down the road here.”

As for this year’s draft, the additions of Blacklock and Greenard seem to answer some immediate needs for a defense that allowed an NFL-worst 6.1 yards per play last season. Blacklock replaces departed interior defensive lineman D.J. Reader and over time will become an upgrade because of his athleticism and ability to be explosive in the middle.

“I bring physicality, I bring passion, I bring leadership, I bring just relentless effort,” said Blacklock, a product of Missouri City. “I just want to be able to be the best I can be. My potential is through the roof just like anybody else’s would be, and I just want to be able to make sure I can reach that potential and more, and just keep growing and improving as the years go by.”

Greenard, meanwhile, gives the Texans a speed pass rusher who should eventual develop into a strong run stopper.

“My biggest strength is just my knowledge of the game, my natural instincts, just having a knack for the ball,” Greenard said. “Things I’m going to work, just overall being at the top of my pass rush just to make sure that I get my pass rush and my sacks a lot more easier.”

FIVE MEMBERS 2020 DRAFT CLASS

ROSS BLACKLOCK

JONATHAN GREENARD

CHARLIE HECK

JOHN REID

ISAIAH COULTER

Position: Defensive line Draft position: 2nd round Ht.: 6’4 Wt.: 305 pounds College: TCU Draft grade: A Say What: “Very impressive guy, worked out a little bit,” O’Brien said. “Just a real impressive guy, so we were thrilled to be able to draft him when we did there at 40.”

Position: OLB/Edge Rusher Draft position: 3rd round Ht.: 6’3 Wt.: 263 College: Florida Draft grade: A Say What: “One of the things that both of these guys bring, Jon brings, is toughness, he brings a football intelligence,” O’Brien said. “He’s a humble, he’s a hungry guy.

I think he falls into that category of dependable, tough and smart.”

Position: Offensive tackle Draft position: 4th round Ht.: 6’8 Wt.: 315 College: North Carolina Draft grade: C Say What: “I think he’s pretty much a tackle,” O’Brien. “I think he can play both sides. Great guy. Really smart, works hard.”

Position: Cornerback Draft position: 4th round Ht.: 5’10 Wt.: 181 College: Penn State Draft grade: B Say What: “I’ve known John for a while,” O’Brien said. “When I was at Penn State he was a sophomore in high school and came to our camp. I think we offered him a scholarship right there.”

Position: Wide Receiver Draft position: 5th round Ht.: 6’3 Wt.: 191 College: Rhode Island Draft grade: C+ Say What: “I would say I’m just coming in ready to work,” Coulter said. “I’m hungry, eager to just learn.

I just want to help any way I can, whether that’s on special teams or a role in the receiving room. I’m just trying to help those guys out and help them get to where they want to be at.”

April 30, 2020 |

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DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports

55 million people watched the virtual draft over 3 days

Houston area players win in NFL Draft T 17 CEEDEE LAMB Position: Wide receiver Team: Dallas College: Oklahoma High School: Foster

40 ROSS BLACKLOCK

Position: Defensive tackle Team: Texans College: TCU High School: Elkins

20 K’LAVON CHAISSON Position: Defensive end Team: Jacksonville College: LSU High School: North Shore

44 GRANT DELPIT Position: Safety Team: Cleveland College: LSU High School: St. Thomas/Lamar

he NFL’s first virtual draft certainly seemed to have a Houston feel to it.

During the first two rounds of the NFL Draft, 7 of the first 45 players drafted were from the Houston area and for those keeping count, that is better than 15% of the players. Houston had a total of 10 players picked over the three-day seven-round draft.

Here is a list of the Houston-area players selected in this year’s NFL Draft.

2020 Houston area draft class

45 ANTOINE WINFIELD Position: Safety Team: Tampa Bay College: University of Minnesota High School: Woodlands

53 JALEN HURTS

Position: Quarterback Team: Philadelphia College: Oklahoma/Alabama High School: Channelview

27

23 KENNETH MURRAY

Position: Linebacker Team: Los Angeles Chargers College: Oklahoma High School: Elkins

JORDYN BROOKS Position: Linebacker Team: Seattle College: Texas Tech High School: Stratford

184

72 JOSH JONES

Position: Offensive tackle Team: Arizona College: University of Houston High School: George Bush

BRAVVION ROY

Position: Defensive tackle Team (drafted): Carolina (184th) College: Baylor High School: Spring

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DEFENDER NETWORK

When staying home is important, staying connected matters.

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