The New Tri-State Defender – April 30 - May 6, 2020

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VOL. 69, No. 18

April 30 - May 6, 2020

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SCS plans for in-person graduation ceremonies in July

by Laura Faith Kebede Chalkbeat

Shelby County Schools is planning in-person graduation ceremonies for July along with a “drive-thru senior salute” where students can pick up their diplomas and get their photo taken.

Supt. Joris Ray announced the plan for the district’s 6,000 seniors Tuesday during the school board’s April meeting.

“Our seniors have earned this moment, and we feel it is our responsibility to provide them with several opportunities to celebrate their hard work,” he said in a statement released during the meeting.

The long-awaited announcement comes about a week after the state released graduation ceremony guidelines. The district has been gathering input from high school seniors for about a month. School systems nationwide have grappled with how to honor their graduating students while still adhering to public health guidelines to stem the spread of the coronavirus.

Below is the tentative plan for senior activities, which are subject to change based on public health guidelines in effect at the time: May: The district plans to launch a website the week of May 18 that includes commemorative programs for families to download as keepsakes that list all graduates. The website

The response to available coronavirus testing was self-evident. (right) Gov. Bill Lee emphasizes a point during an exchange at the Christ Community Health Services drive-thru testing site in Frayser. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises)

Inching toward a phased-in reopening

SEE SCS ON PAGE 2

Drug proves effective against virus as economic damage rises

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Rolling out the outline for a plan to reopen after safer-at-home restrictions, Mayor Jim Strickland reiterated his position that getting back to business would be a delicate balance between resuming normal business activity and adhering to the directives of health officials. “…Our social distancing efforts and Safer at Home Order have shown promise,” said Strickland at Monday’s COVID-19 Joint Task Force Briefing.

“They have put us in a position to consider slowly and methodically opening up our city to get back to business.

Many hours of hard work went into the plan, he said, “and the spirit of collaboration has been truly amazing to witness.

I want to thank the other mayors and everyone involved for making this happen.”

Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris said collaborative efforts between county officials, municipal leaders and joint task force members have created a “phased reopening approach” which is not based on a specific date.

“Over the past several weeks, the municipal mayors and leadership from the Joint COVID-19 Task Force have consulted with the health department and local healthcare professionals to identify steps to get residents back to work safely,” Lee said.

“We have used data to drive decisions about when and how to restart our economy…We developed a phased reopening approach not based on a specific date…

The turnout was heavy on Saturday as drive-thru COVID-19 testing was offered at Christ Community Health Services in Frayser.

“Over the past several weeks, the municipal mayors and leadership from the Joint COVID-19 Task Force have consulted with the health department and local healthcare professionals to identify steps to get residents back to work safely.”

— Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris COVID-19 – Where do we stand? See Page 7 but on continued monitoring of data, and continued emphasis on social distancing.”

Local residents were encouraged to remain vigilant about adhering to social distancing guidelines, frequent hand-washing and the protection of face masks while easing cautiously into re-opening.

The Safer at Home Order will still be in effect, and the phased-in approach is actually a component of it, according to

Strickland.

The six mayors of cities located in the county all made concurring statements. “…As we move forward, it is still up to us as individuals to take our own precautions, and I feel we have a good plan for all of our communities,” said Arlington Mayor Mike Wissman. “…We must come up with a plan that we can get approval from our health department…And we must all do our part to social distance and wear cloth masks. We must not let our guard down,” said Bartlett Mayor Keith McDonald.

“Thank you to all the residents, businesses, healthcare professionals, and municipalities in Shelby County taking the steps needed to slow the spread of COVID-19 infections. Our communities’ encouraging, unified approach to work together continues as we safely get back to business,” said Collierville Mayor Stan Joyner.

“I am sure I speak for all of my colleagues when I say thank you to our residents for their cooperation. We are committed to a responsible approach for getting back to business and we are thrilled that the process is taking a county-wide approach,” Germantown Mayor

SEE OPEN ON PAGE 2

by Martin Crutsinger, Marilynn Marchione and Pat Eaton-Robb Associated Press

Scientists on Wednesday announced the first effective treatment against the coronavirus – an experimental drug that can speed the recovery of COVID-19 patients – in a major medical advance that came as the economic gloom caused by the scourge deepened in the U.S. and Europe.

The U.S. government said it is working to make the antiviral medication remdesivir available to patients as quickly as possible.

“What it has proven is that a drug can block this virus,” said Dr. Anthony Fauci, the U.S. government’s top infectious-disease expert. “This will be the standard of care.”

Still, word of the new drug came as the U.S. government reported that American economic output is shriveling in the biggest and fastest collapse since the Depression. The virus has killed over 220,000 people worldwide, including more than 60,000 confirmed deaths in the U.S., and led to lockdowns and other restrictions that have closed factories and other businesses around the globe.

The U.S. said its gross domestic product, or output of goods and services, shrank at

SEE TREATMENT ON PAGE 2

The New Tri-State Defender

April 30 - May 6, 2020

Page 2

NEWS TREATMENT CONTINUED FROM FRONT an annual rate of 4.8 percent in the January-March period, the sharpest quarterly drop since the global financial meltdown of more than a decade ago.

And the worst is yet to come: The Congressional Budget Office has estimated that the GDP of the world’s biggest economy will plunge at a 40 percent annual rate during the three-month period that ends in June.

The latest figures on people applying for unemployment benefits in the U.S. come out Thursday, with economists estimating perhaps 1 in 6 American workers, or nearly 30 million people, have lost their jobs over the past six weeks.

The U.S. unemployment rate for April will be released at the end of next week, and economists have said it could range as high as 20 percent – a level last seen during the Depression.

Mario Franco, who worked at a McDonald’s at a rest stop along Interstate 95 in Darien, Connecticut for 26 years, rising to night manager in charge of the kitchen staff, was laid off in late March. The 50-year-old said he has little savings and now relies on a food bank and union donations.

“They didn’t give us any notice,” he said through an interpreter. “They didn’t tell us about it. Just suddenly the night shift ended and that was it. There was no more work.”

Confirmed infections globally reached about 3.2 million, including 1 million in the U.S., according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University. The true numbers of deaths and infections are believed to be much higher because of limited testing, differences in counting the dead and concealment by some governments.

California-based biotech company Gilead Sciences and the U.S. government reported that in a major study, remdesivir shortened the time it takes for COVID-19

patients to recover by four days on average – from 15 days to 11. Also, a trend toward fewer deaths was seen among those on the drug, Fauci said.

The study was run by the U.S. National Institutes of Health and involved 1,063 hospitalized coronavirus patients around the world.

An effective treatment could have a profound effect on the outbreak, since a vaccine is probably a year or more away.

Economic damage, meanwhile, is piling up around the world.

The United Nations’ main labor body predicted the world will lose the equivalent of about 305 million full-time jobs in the second quarter.

It also projected that 1.6 billion workers in the “informal economy,” including those working beyond the reach of the government, “stand in immediate danger of having their livelihoods destroyed.”

That is nearly half the global workforce of 3.3 billion people.

In Europe, almost every measure of the economy is in free fall. Figures due to be released Thursday are expected to show a drop of about 4% in the first three months of the year in the eurozone, and an even steeper hit is projected this quarter. Unemployment is expected to rise to about 8% in March.

The figure would be worse if not for massive amounts of government aid to keep millions of workers on payrolls.

Government debt is exploding to cover the costs of such relief.

“The lockdowns to contain the COVID-19 pandemic are taking an unprecedented toll on the European economy,” said Florian Hense, an economist at Berenberg Bank.

In Paris, aircraft maker Airbus reported a first-quarter loss of 481 million euros ($515 million), laid off thousands of workers and sought billions in loans to pull through the crisis. U.S.-based rival

Boeing said it is cutting 10 percent of its workforce and reducing the production rate of commercial jets.

Italy’s credit rating was lowered in the first downgrade of a major economy as a result of the crisis. Its rating stands just one level above junk bond status. Italy expects its economy to shrink 8 percent this year.

Germany’s economy minister said the government is projecting a contraction of about 11 percent in GDP by the end of the quarter. But he also predicted a sharp recovery in 2021.

Many economists are skeptical the U.S. economy will bounce back quickly later in the year, noting that the virus could flare up again or consumers and employees might be too worried to return to business as usual.

“The virus has done a lot of damage to the economy, and there is just so much uncertainty now,” said Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics.

In other developments, Britain raised its death toll to more than 26,000 after adding more than 3,800 nursing home deaths that were previously not included.

With the crisis easing in places like Italy, France and Spain, European governments are making adjustments in their transportation networks to try to get their economies running again without setting off a second wave of infections.

In Italy, Milan is putting red stickers on the floor to tell bus passengers how far apart to stand. The Dutch are putting on longer, roomier trains. Berlin and many other cities are opening up more lanes to bicyclists. And in Britain, bus passengers are using the middle or rear doors to reduce the risk to the driver.

(Associated Press journalists around the world contributed to this report. Follow AP pandemic coverage at http://apnews.com/ VirusOutbreak and https://apnews.com/ UnderstandingtheOutbreak.)

June: Students and their families can visit their high school campus the week of June 8 to pick up diplomas and awards in a “drive-thru senior salute.” Students can participate in themed photo opportunities that adhere to social distancing guidelines.

SCS CONTINUED FROM FRONT will also provide updates about graduation activities.

(Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises)

OPEN CONTINUED FROM FRONT Mike Palazzolo said.

Lakeland Mayor Mike Cunningham thanked “all Shelby County Leadership, Mayor Harris, and all municipal mayors for working collaboratively during this pandemic and now building our plans for reopening…I would also like to thank our citizens for their patience

July: In-person graduation ceremonies are tentatively scheduled for July 13-26. Since public health guidelines may still prohibit large gatherings then, virtual ceremonies will be a backup option. Details on when and where the ceremonies will be held will be announced

and cooperation through all of this.”

Millington Mayor Terry Jones, said, “…We look forward to working with the other municipalities across our county to implement this plan and getting our economy going again. We will continue to follow state guidance and health directives from the Shelby County Health Department to achieve a safe and measured approach to this matrix.”

closer to the date.

Graduation ceremony plans for the district’s 57 charter schools and the state-run Achievement School District are separate. Ray said parents can expect more information soon about refunds for senior fees.

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The New Tri-State Defender

April 30 - May 6, 2020

Page 3

NEWS

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PERSPECTIVE The New Tri-State Defender, April 30 - May 6, 2020, Page 4

Living through COVID-19: A trio of profiles – Part V because of (COVID-19) virus concerns,” Cook said.

Now, the last two sessions will be held virtually.

The course, according to the Assisi website, covers “what every nonprofit should know before applying for a grant.”

Cowan said her organization probably is not ready to apply for a grant. However, the course has reinforced the necessity of her nonprofit to complete a strategic plan, which she has been working to complete.

Still, she said joining the classes has been beneficial because of the networking and contacts she has made, and what she has learned.

by Jerome Wright jwright@tsdmemphis.com

This is the fifth installment of The New Tri-State Defender’s ongoing account of three Memphians coping with the coronavirus amid government-directed efforts to slow the virus’ spread.

An eye-opening moment When James Cook was forced to close his two businesses at Memphis International Airport – Runway 901 Bar & Grill and Lenny’s Grill and Subs – because of a lack of airport passengers, he went to work for another Lenny’s franchisee.

And, to supplement that income, he began working for his father’s landscaping business.

He cuts grass in the morning and then clocks in at a Midtown area Lenny’s at 2 p.m.

Tuesday, he told The New Tri-State Defender that Lenny’s business has increased to a point where he can rehire some of the workers he had to lay off from his airport businesses. It would be for 24 to 30 hours a week.

There were no takers, he said.

“A lot don’t want to come back until the unemployment supplements end in July.

The unemployment is paying them more a week than I can pay them. I don’t blame them,” Cook said.

Tennessee has begun paying approved unemployment claimants their $600 Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefit, in addition to their Tennessee Unemployment Compensation (TUC) benefit.

Claimants, under current guidelines, will be eligible for the additional $600 under the FPUC program until July 31, 2020.

Cook thinks other businesses looking for workers are facing the same problem. That said, he still needs to find workers.

Looking toward May 10

James Cook

William Gandy Jr. “We’re all waiting until June,” he said.

That is when they anticipate airport traffic will pick up enough to allow them to start planning to reopen.

A learning opportunity reopens

Margaret Cowan “Right now, I’m having to try to find high school students or people, who can’t qualify for unemployment (to fill the jobs),” Cook said.

Meanwhile, he and other airport concessionaires engaged in a conference call last.

Margaret Cowan, founding keeper of the nonprofit I Am My Sister’s Keeper, which works with single working mothers to increase their earning potential, recently received some good news.

The Assisi Foundation is restarting its “Before You Ask” educational series, designed to help nonprofit leaders and staff “further define and refine goals and strategy before you ask for necessary funding.”

Cowan said, “You have to take the course before you ask them for money.”

It is a 12-week course, where nonprofit leaders met with presenters once a week.

“We were at 10 weeks when it stopped

That is when William Gandy Jr. hopes he can get back to cutting hair, realizing there will be restrictions.

Those restrictions include having customers make an appointment so that none of the barbers will have more than one customer in the shop at the same time, masks, social distancing, and sanitizing his equipment and barber chair after finishing each customer.

Gov. Bill Lee issued an executive order Tuesday, extending the closure of bars and close-contact businesses through the end of May, but said Wednesday he planned to reopen salons and barber shops in the state’s rural areas May 6.

The state’s six largest counties are excluded. The governor has allowed officials in those counties, including Memphis-Shelby, to determine when it is safe to reopen businesses.

Meanwhile, Gandy said his brother, Joseph Gandy, has been released from quarantine after recovering from the virus.

“Now he has to worry about not doing what he shouldn’t have been doing in the first place,” William said.

LOC’D IN WITH LOC

Lessons learned from a pandemic An inside view as Memphis’ only HBCU (historically black college and university) navigates through the coronavirus pandemic while maintaining its mission.

by Christie Harper Special to The New Tri-State Defender

My career at LeMoyne-Owen College began 15 years ago, as an adjunct English and Humanities professor. At the time, I was working in a similar role at other area colleges and universities, but LeMoyne-Owen stood out.

There is a family atmosphere and closeness with students and staff that isn’t present at many larger schools. Therefore, when I transitioned to teaching full-time a few years ago, LOC was my choice. Times like these further validate that decision.

When we left for the extended Spring Break in mid-March, we had no idea we wouldn’t be coming back this school year. We were informed a few days into the break that we’d transition to remote learning. It seemed daunt-

ing initially, but it’s taught both students and faculty the value of life-long learning, collaboration and embracing shifts in work and culture.

A few things I’ve learned so far stand out: First, LeMoyne-Owen College has a unique adChristie vantage in that our faculty Harper is highly diverse.

We have professors who are homegrown, but we also have some from across the country and globe. Each of us comes with various skill sets and interests, and we are all different ethnicities, cultures and ages. While many of us have already been incorporating advanced technology into our teaching and curriculum, some of us have also experienced a learning curve. Rather than creating a stall in progress, we have kept our core goals in the forefront, which are to provide our students with a quality education and peer-to-peer support.

Daily, we are talking by phone, FaceTime and email to assist one another in the work. Our department chair, Linda White, Ph.D., has been especially supportive of us, providing an additional layer of expertise and resources.

Secondly, our students are resilient.

Having myself experienced the 9/11 tragedy as a young adult and the feeling of uncertainty during that time, I am in awe of how well they are navigating this crisis. This generation is often labeled as entitled or coddled, but they’ve accepted the current reality and moved forward without complaints. They are excited and engaged in the coursework, despite the challenges and changes.

Without prompting, I receive ongoing correspondence from students requesting in depth discussions about their assigned readings. Although I miss being in the classroom with them, their independence has kept the dialogue about lessons moving without interruption, which wasn’t possible before, with only 50 minutes of instruction time.

They also miss seeing their classmates, teachers and administrators. A student recently

told me, “I can’t believe I actually miss being in school.” I believe they consider us family just as much as we do them.

Lastly, we are each learning new skills from the administrators, down.

In the end, faculty members now have additional knowledge and competencies that level up our flexibility and creativity in instruction.

And although students may be tech savvy with platforms that interest them socially, like Snapchat and Tik Tok, those skills can be quite different from those acquired in an educational setting. These skills they’re putting into practice now are transferable to post-graduate studies and the working world and will help ensure an easier transition following graduation.

Ultimately, we’re excited about the acceleration in remote learning and other changes to come that will positively impact the College in a big way. It’s a great feeling to be a part of an institution that wants to see everyone win.

(Christie Harper (MA, MFA) works in the Department of English, Division of Humanities and Fine Arts at LeMoyne-Owen College.)

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The New Tri-State Defender

April 30 - May 6, 2020

Page 5

RELIGION

Preaching amid the pandemic...

The Rev. Gerald Rayborn, pastor of New Sinai Church on Horn Lake Rd., held a socially-distanced service last Sunday. His sermon’s essence was about faith, with this title: “When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hold on.” It was a message that resonated with Bonnie Rayborn (right), the church’s first lady. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley)

Mission Possible: COSM celebrates 40 years of service ‘from the heart’ TSD Newsroom Six weeks ago, Mission Possible: COSM founder Thelma Nelms was standing in front of an overflow crowd at the National Civil Rights Museum to accept a Living Legacy Award presented by state Rep. Barbara Cooper. At the time, she was pushing forward with plans for the non-profit’s 40th anniversary celebration.

That celebration took place this past weekend, however, it was a far cry from anything in Nelm’s past.

The coronavirus pandemic made it untenable to host the sit-down-together gathering that annually brought together supporters “from small to great, individuals to corporate donors, schools and churches, law enforcement to lawbreakers, food and restaurant giants to small mom and pop operations.”

As she has done since founding Mission Possible: COSM (Christian Outreach Service Mission), Nelms – along with her team – improvised. The result was the Mission Possible 40th Anniversary Web-A-Thon.

The online happening featured Imogene Stanbury’s a cappella rendition of Happy Birthday, testimonials and more.

Nelms, who serves as president, and Mission Possible: COSM are passionate about ministering to the needs of thousands of Memphians each year. Services include food and clothing; elderly assistance; counseling services and training for youth, married couples, workplace employees and employers; and prayer support based on Christian principles and concepts.

In a letter “From the Heart of

Mission Possible: COSM founder/President Thelma Nelms was honored as a Living Legend during a ceremony at the National Civil Rights Museum in March.

(Photo: Karanja A. Ajanaku) Thelma Nelms” distributed in advance of the online celebration, she sat the context, pivoting off the naming of Lucille Hawthorne as the winner of the group’s Teacher Award.

Hawthorne, Nelms wrote, “lived in the ‘neighborhood’ in a pretty white house on Pontotoc, where Street Ministries is now housed – just across the street from Leath Elementary School – located at 427 Linden, Memphis, Tennessee ‘38126’, where she obviously loved the little ‘poor’ children who she taught; thusly, making a difference in the lives of thousands who her students touched and continue to touch!!!

“You too can ‘reach out and touch someone’s life and make this world a better place.!!”

Teachers, Nelms wrote, were “Relationship” driven, teaching

more than reading, writing and arithmetic. “That spirit of service went far beyond the call of duty and spilled over into our churches through Sunday School teachers – many who were less formally educated. It was a collaboration at ist best in our little ‘38126’ village.”

Noting that 38126 is one of the poorest communities in the MidSouth, Nelms said, recently a question has resounded: Can any good thing come out of ZIP code 38126.

Rooted in 38126, Nelms said the answer is, “Yes!” And, Mission Possible, she said, “has helped that community make improvements and aims to continue its efforts by bringing ‘class’ through workshops and training to brothers, sisters, families and fellow citizens in the ‘38126’

area, as well as the entire MidSouth community.”

Before as now, Mission Possible: COSM’s needs include volunteers, non-perishable food items, copy/typing paper, coats, transportation, cell phones, life coaches, computers & ink cartridges, computer supplies, postage and envelopes and monetary donations.

Wrote Nelms: “Even though we are unable to celebrate our 40th anniversary ‘together’ in our usual vast crowds, please be reminded that needs have not changed, and we still need ‘Your’ HELP! NO Deposits – NO Returns!!!”

(For more information, visit Mission Possible: COSM at 2400 Poplar Ave. Suite 428; call 901-458-HELP or email mission. possible@att.net. Visit www.missionpossiblecosm.org)

Faith leaders weigh in on re-opening TSD Newsroom A group of 15 clergy, representing major dioceses and congregations in West Tennessee, are calling for what they label a moral, thoughtful approach to move the community forward instead one driven solely by political, economic or even health concerns.

In a statement released Tuesday, the clergy group said, “We do not presume to speak for all clergy in the city and surrounding areas, but we hope that our voices reflect the wide and deep fabric of Memphis and West Tennessee’s congregational life.”

Four guiding principles were outlined: • We will rely on the medical and scientific community as our primary resource for information.

• We will work collaboratively to responsibly care for those who contract COVID-19.

• We will collaborate to determine when returning to in-person worship is possible.

• We will continue to speak up.

An invitation was issued for all faith leaders in Memphis and West Tennessee to sign the Clergy COVID-19 Response Statement and support the guiding principles.

The signors to the letter include: Imam Anwar Arafat, Islamic Center of Tennessee Bishop Linwood Dillard, Citadel of Deliverance COGIC Bishop William T. McAlilly, Nashville Episcopal Area, UMC Rabbi Micah D. Greenstein, Temple Israel Scott Morris, MD, MDiv, Church Health Bishop Phoebe Roaf, Episcopal Diocese of West Tennessee Pastor John Siebeling, The Life Church Rev. Deborah B. Smith, Metro District, UMC Rev. Rufus Smith, Hope Church Memphis Rev. Dr. Stacy L. Spencer, New Direction Christian Church Rev. Dr. Shane Stanford, Christ United Methodist Church Rev. Dr. Gina M. Stewart, Christ Missionary Baptist Church Bishop David P. Talley, Catholic Diocese of Memphis Rev. Dr. J. Lawrence Turner, Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church Rev. Scott Walters, Calvary Episcopal Church (To view the petition, visit ChurchHealth.org/ fce.)

The New Tri-State Defender, April 30 - May 6, 2020, Page 6

‘Family’ CD – something good emerges from pandemic challenge

by TSD Newsroom

The infectious storytelling of the Prophet Najee mixed with hard hitting instrumentals to make him standout performer. (Instagram screen capture)

Hear 901 Music Festival 2020 was a virtual hit!

by Brianna A. Smith Special to The New Tri-State Defender

A number of artists and musical institutions are taking the show to Instagram live to share some musical joy during these trying times.

With venues on lock down across the city, Hear 901 Music Festival 2020 (Blue T.O.M Records, The University of Memphis’ Student Run Record Label) put on a virtual concert that was an entertaining watch from the safety of my couch.

The Hear 901 Festival is a culmination of an entire year of study for music industry students at the U of M. “It is a platform to showcase the skills they have gained from the Music School. They get to plan, book, promote and produce a full-fledged music festival by themselves,” said Colin Dunning, a U of M music Brianna business student.

A. Smith Blue T.O.M. (Tigers of Memphis) Records is managed by students, for students. From public relations to booking, students work to help fellow student musicians develop their full potential and talent.

“As a whole, this is an opportunity to showcase the upcoming Memphis Music scene to the local and national community of the music world,” said Dunning.

The host of the evening, Jordan Occasionally (JD), was a ball of talent and energy. She won a fan in me!

She opened the show singing her R&B ballad “Coffee” and followed up thanking guests for tuning in virtually.

“Tonight, we’ll be presenting the Hear 901 Music Festival. It usually happens live at a dope venue space but this evening it’ll be happening in our dope home spaces.”

The show typically takes place at The Bluff on Highland, which usually holds around 300-400 people (students mainly).

“It is usually a pretty good size event for our artists to perform, so going from that size to virtual was definitely a significant shift in how we had to approach this festival,” said Dunning.

The show was extremely diverse and full of local talent performing original music.

The first performer of the night was Sam Ryden, whose musical style range from folksy Americana to an acoustic soul/pop vibe. His sound was mature and his guitar and vocal talents were equally amazing.

Kelsey Taylor, an indie singer and songwriter, followed. She had such beautiful tone and control. “I write music that’s really lyrical,” she said.

She put on a show that was an incredible display of powerful vocals and soulful expression. I would love to see her perform live one day.

Reminiscent of John Mayer, Compton McMurry fused sugary pop hooks with timeless stories and raw, acoustic textures. His songs lean heavily on inspiration from stories in the Bible

Jordan Occasionally (JD), the host of the evening, was a ball of talent and energy.

(Courtesy photo) and other classic literature. He blessed us as the third performer of the night. Compton’s sound was folk-pop groove featuring him playing the guitar. He had a feel good, chill set.

Midway through the show, host JD introduced the audience to the president of Blue TOM ‘Big Mike’. “I’m really so proud of everyone on our committee that put towards the effort to make this virtual festival happen,” said Mike. “This is amazing. The artists sound amazing.”

The original festival was scheduled for April 11, but was cancelled the week before because of the virus.

“A couple of days before the original festival date Nick Black and Ben Yonas, our event coordinators, were brainstorming and came up with the idea for the virtual festival,” said Dunning.

“The next two weeks consisted of planning and coordinating Instagram Live, marketing, artist availability, and how to fill all of our time slots with entertainment,” he said.

Jalan Veasley, the fourth performer of the night, said, “Music should excite you; music should invite you; music should spread a message and tell a story.”

His poetry background mixed with his natural charisma made him a diverse and special addition to the lineup. Jalan had a cool flow to himself and a great uplifting message through rap.

His personality and energy were eminent!

The Prophet Najee, a Nigerian rapper from Memphis, was my favorite act of the night. Najee’s infectious story telling mixed with hard hitting instrumentals made him a standout performer.

“A lil rona not gone stop us,” he said. “Vibe out with me.” His energy was contagious and truly what the world needs right now.

Avon Park Band was the headliner. They played songs from their latest EP “Watson.”

They are an indie-alternative band based in Memphis, that formed after its members got good responses while playing together at house shows.

The band consists of drummer/lead vocalist Will Crowe, guitarist/vocalist Connor Bankey, guitarist/vocalist Will Buehler, and bassist Alex Haggard. Together, they delivered fun, upbeat music that I consider enjoyable to fans of any genre of music.

Blue T.O.M. Records hosts several events to highlight their artists. For more information visit their website www.bluetomrecords.com.

Donald O’Conner – known to many as the founder/director of Watoto – and his son, Nick, have released a new CD – “Family” – inspired by being at home during the pandemic and reflecting on “how the family unit is the best way to overcome life’s struggles and challenges.”

Families are experiencing struggle all over the world but even through this, they maintain the strength that family connections bring, said O’Conner, adding it’s not limited to just the people we live with.

“Family” can mean different things to different people, including classmates, co-workers, church members, sports teammates.

“Our hopes with this song/video are that (1) the ‘new normal’ becomes one that is family first, whatever you consider to be your family, and (2) that you will enjoy the love, joy and positive power from your family to overcome all challenges that this time and future times may bring,” O’Conner said.

Reflecting on the love that all children have for performing arts activities – and given the rich and historical performing arts culture of African and African- American people, the WatotoAcademy of the Performing Arts was formed, said O’Conner, a Memphian, musician, songwriter, producer and certified music instructor.

The WatotoAcademy uses African and African-American music, songs, dance, stage performance styles, literature and American history as the foundation for its curriculum.

O’Conner believed that local urban youth and families needed a program that addressed and reversed deeply-rooted negative patterns of thinking and behavior.

Through the “History on Stage” concert component, a variety of artistic styles, literature and African-American history are used to

introduce students to the historical experiences and accomplishments of their ancestors.

Live stage performances give WatotoAcademy youth the “unique experience of singing, dancing and performing their way through their cultural history.” O’Conner said it has improved their self-image, taught them to appreciate their cultural heritage and take an active responsibility in their overall development and success in life.

Drawing on a largely African-American student population, all program graduates have finished high school; many have gone on to college and post-graduate study. Students are instructed to think critically, encouraged to explore/research, motivated to discover their latent talents/abilities and to develop their own path in life.

Recently, O’Conner’s work was credited for a six-percent increase in reading scores and an eight-percent increase in math scores of a group of urban 2nd through 5th grade youth.

He now travels throughout the country teaching, lecturing and sharing his WatotoAcademy formula for youth development through the arts via his book “The Ngoma Drum Circle”.

(For more about Donald O’Conner and the WatotoAcademy of the Performing Arts, visit www.watotoacademy.org. Watch “Family” video at https://youtu.be/Erwv9rK_vDQ.)

Family Written by Nick “Shemar” O’Conner and Donald O’Conner Intro Yeah, Yeah, Yeah, Yeah Hey! , Yeah, Yeah, Yeah, Yeah Hey! We’re family, we’re family, all together.

We’re family, we’re family, and we’ll last forever, oh yeah.

Verse 1: It’s a family affair no time to be scared, it don’t really matter if you here or there.

Thinking bout you all the time, making sure you’re okay.

Always got you on my mind, hoping you have a good day.

I know it’s such a crazy time being in this world.

This song goes out to all the boys and girls.

Stay strong listen to my philosophy.

Chorus: Cause we’re family, we’re family, all together.

We’re family, we’re family and we’ll last forever.

We’re family, we’re family through this stormy weather.

We’re family, we’re family, oh yeah Verse 2: Somebody tell corona that we’re gonna fight back.

I promise to you all that we will get our life back.

When school starts we’re gonna end up on the right track.

It’s too far in the year to try and back track.

I can’t wait to go and eat lunch with my friends.

Go out and play, maybe swing, yea it depends.

Catch up with my friends at the bus stop.

The only thing I love is that I don’t need an alarm clock.

It’s a house party go and do your dance.

Please do not forget to go and wash your hands.

And we gone bring each other to the promise land.

And we gone make it through this hope you understand.

Chorus: Verse 3: This corona situation been a curse and a blessing.

Yeah, we all can learn from it cause its teaching us a lesson.

Stay with your family cause we all got time.

No more work, don’t call me, don’t hit my line.

Let’s relax, watch a movie, play some Uno cards.

We have fun in the house we don’t need a car.

Monopoly, enjoy life this is the family part.

We can make it through together, we some superstars Chorus: End Chorus: We’re family, family, family, family (repeat 8 times) And we’ll last forever, all together.

Copyright April 15, 2020

The New Tri-State Defender

April 30 - May 6, 2020

Page 7

COVID-19 UPDATE

COVID-19: Where do we stand?

High case numbers in Hickory Hill, ZIP code 38118, detainees at ‘201’

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell Special to The New Tri-State Defender

High numbers of individuals are testing positive for the COVID-19 virus in Hickory Hill, communities in the 38118 ZIP code and among detainees held at the Shelby County Jail at 201 Poplar.

Overall, numbers in Shelby County, however, are promising, according to officials at Wednesday’s COVID-19 Joint Task Force Update.

According to Shelby County Health Department Director Alisa Haushalter, the total number of coronavirus cases now stands at 2,403, up from 2,320 Tuesday, in the county, with 46 deaths.

The spike was not unexpected, since a broader net has been cast to extend testing for the virus.

“We have been able to meet the needs of those who need to be tested locally,” said Haushalter. “We want to continue to expand our capacity to actually get people tested.

And the lab capacity is there…

“About a month ago, our turnaround time from when a specimen was taken and we received a report could be as much as 6-10 days. That caused significant delays in getting people isolated. The turnaround time on average is 24-48 hours…

“We have standardized our education that occurs at the testing sites so that people know they have to be isolated once they are tested, and if results come back positive, they remain in isolation. That is critical to us reducing transmission.”

Largely African-American communities in Hickory Hill and in the 38118 ZIP code were singled out as a large concentration of positive cases.

Specifically, in 38118, Haushalter said, people live very closely together in the same neighborhoods. There appears to be “transmission based on family relationships and social relationships,” people going to the same facilities who may or may not be practicing good social distancing and wearing masks.

Outreach has been to distribute educational materials to those communities and making direct contact with community leaders there.

Shelby County Sheriff Floyd Bonner Jr. made a rare appearance at the update to talk about staff and detainees testing positive for coronavirus at the Downtown jail.

There have been 155 detainees and 37 employees who have tested positive, he said. One person is hospitalized, but it was not clear whether it is an inmate or employee.

“It’s very difficult to practice social distancing in a jail,” Bonner said. “You have to remember this facility was built more than 40 years ago. This pandemic was not even thought of at that time. Now, what we have done in the jail during this process (is to make sure) all inmates have

“Aliens” left this message on a mural-adorned wall near Southwest Tennessee Community College’s Union Campus. (Photo: Karanja A. Ajanaku)

The Huey’s on Madison displays this message.

(Photo: Karanja A. Ajanaku) access to soap and hand sanitizers.

“We are constantly cleaning the jail. About two weeks ago now, we issued all inmates and all of the correctional deputies in the jail masks. We’re doing all we can do to fight this virus and slow it down. We’ve moved some of the inmates up to the sixth floor so that the area could be sanitized.”

Bonner said these problems are not unique to Shelby County, but that jails all across the country are struggling with these issues.

Because of the close proximity all inmates have, Bonner said managing the conditions contributing to the spread

of the virus is difficult. But he also has reduced the jail’s population.

“I believe now our count is 381,” Bonner said. “Since January, that reduction is roughly about 17 percent. So, we’re going to continue to work with our law enforcement partners – the judges, the attorney general’s office – to see how many more we can safely release out into the community.”

The mayors of Memphis, Shelby County and its suburbs Monday announced a jointly-developed reopening plan titled “Back to Business.”

The plan, which does not give a specific opening date, has three phases of at least 14 days each, and progression to each new phase will depend on a flat or declining COVID-19 case count countywide and the ability to test and trace those who get sick.

The county’s health officials will advise government officials by observing data-driven indicators as the slowing of new cases, stabilized and decreasing numbers, more testing with a continued downward trend.

Gov. Bill Lee issued an executive order Tuesday, extending the closure of bars and close-contact businesses through the end of May, but said Wednesday he planned to reopen salons and barber shops in the state’s rural areas May 6.

The state’s six largest counties are excluded. The governor has allowed officials in those counties, including Memphis-Shelby, to determine when it is safe to reopen businesses.

Also Monday, Lee allowed restaurants in the state’s 89 smaller counties to reopen under strict guidelines. The state’s six largest counties, including Shelby, also were excluded from that order.

COMMUNITY The New Tri-State Defender, April 30 - May 6, 2020, Page 8

United Way Free Tax Prep begins extended season

‘Earth-shattering’ KIPP school closings spur petition drive

TSD Newsroom

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell Special to The New Tri-State Defender

For parents of KIPP Memphis Preparatory Middle (KMPM) and KIPP Memphis Preparatory Elementary (KMPE) Schools, news of the schools’ closing propelled the South Memphis community into protest.

A petition launched over the weekend now boasts more than 1,500 signatures.

“The KIPP schools are great education options because of their college preparatory curricula, but there are so many other programs that assist the families of students who attend,” said Gerri Rosser, PTO president. “There is a bin on the side of the school where anyone in the community who needs toiletries and other household necessities can just come up and get what they need.

“We are a family, and we are all devastated. A laundry room was also added on to the school so families could come up and wash their clothes. There are dryers, and a place to iron them as well.

We want to make sure our students are clean and neat in their uniforms every day.”

A news release from the board of directors said the schools operating in the former site of Corry Middle School at 2230 Corry would close June 2020. The other five KIPP schools will remain open.

“While the community welcomed our network with open arms, we’ve been unable to fulfill our academic promise to our students, teachers and families,” said James Boyd, chairman of the KIPP Memphis board of directors. “We strongly believe this decision is in the best interest of our KIPP Memphis community and is a step in the right direction to improve our organization’s ability to build a stronger network of schools.”

The COVID-19 pandemic also played a role in the decision to close the schools, as “its financial impact prevented opportunities for the schools to receive longterm funding from historic philanthropic resources,” according to the release.

Rosser and other parents immediately vowed to continue fighting the move. Seniors living in the community, families with no school-age children and friends

PTO President Gerri Rosser with her daughter, Karmen Young, a third-grader at KIPP. (Courtesy photos) of the KIPP schools housed have signed the online petition to have the decisions reversed.

The news was broken to parents and the community through emails as well as the weekly school news publication.

Deidre Lathan, mother of six, received her email at 4:53 a.m. on Friday, informing her that the KIPP schools could not accept student applications for the upcoming year because they would not be re-opened.

“This is not just a school to us,” said Lathan. This is the place where we can get clothes, shoes, food, employment assistance, and even help with housing.

“KIPP is our community center and social services office. We had no say-so. The faculty had no say-so. The administration had no say-so. We were all just told that the schools were closing, like there was nothing more to be said about it.”

An email from the schools’ enrollment office read, in part: “Thank you for submitting your application to attend KIPP Memphis Preparatory Middle School (KMPM), located at 2230 Corry Road, Memphis, TN. We regret to inform you that beginning in the 2020-2021 academic year, KMPM will no longer be in operation. However, KIPP Memphis Collegiate Schools does have two other options…for we are excited to offer you…”

Rosser said although Facebook Live classes have been hosted by KIPP faculty in music, math and other subjects, the early ending of the school year because of the COVID-19 pandemic was “traumatic enough for our students.”

KIPP students working in the garden before the safer-athome restrictions.

Each teacher still operates a Google Classroom, but it’s just not the same, parents said.

“We are a family at the schools,” said Rosser. “For us, a holistic approach to education gives our children a wider safety net. They know that if their family needs food, or if they don’t have proper clothing and shoes, students know that the faculty and staff at KIPP will make sure that families have what they need. This includes families that don’t even have children.”

Rosser said the goal of the petition drive is to show the KIPP Board of Directors that the community needs these schools to stay open, not just for a well-rounded, college-prep education, but for the social services and other supportive efforts to an impoverished community.

“I sent a letter, along with the petition and signatures to Mr. Boyd,” said Rosser. “I have not heard anything back yet, but I wanted them to see all the support we have. We want to work together along with the board to keep our school open, not just for now, but for many years to come.”

Lathan is especially concerned about her son, Steven. He is autistic and received an official diagnosis only after enrolling in KIPP.

“It looked like just a kid acting out, a real behavioral problem,” said Lathan. “But they got Steven the help he needed. We got an official diagnosis, and they formed an entire team to deal with Steven’s issues.

“There is a regular teacher, two special education teachers, two guidance counselors, a speech therapist, and an occupational therapist. He is so much better, and he is doing well in school. I just don’t know what we are going to do. Closing KIPP will be such a great setback for him.”

The Knowledge is Power Program, commonly known as KIPP, is a nationwide network of non-profit, open-enrollment, college-preparatory schools in low-income communities throughout the country.

KIPP is America’s largest network of public charter schools, with administrative offices in San Francisco, Chicago, and New York City.

KIPP Memphis’ five remaining schools are KIPP Memphis Academy Elementary, KIPP Memphis Academy Middle, KIPP Memphis Collegiate Elementary, KIPP Memphis Collegiate Middle and KIPP Memphis Collegiate High.

(For more information, visit kippmemphis.org.)

After shifting operations during the COVID-19 pandemic to protect the safety and well-being of volunteers, staff and participants, United Way of the Mid-South’s Free Tax Prep is continuing its Drive-Thru Drop-Off tax preparation for the extended season.

The aim is to “help low to moderate income families get Dr. Kenneth access to any S. Robinson funds that will continue moving them from where they are to where they dream to be”.

The Drive-Thru Drop-Off service was created as a low-risk alternative that allows filers to submit tax return documents to process their refunds without leaving their vehicles, meeting social distancing guidelines.

Amidst the pandemic, the IRS extended the regular filing deadline to July 15th, 2020. Beginning Monday, May 11th, Free Tax Prep’s Drive-Thru Drop-Off will be open to file current year returns, prior year returns and amended returns. Participants will still need to bring all appropriate documentation.

A “Stimulus Hotline” will be activated to help individuals understand their eligibility. The hotline will also provide resources to prepare “stimulus” related returns and to check the status of the current payment. All services will be open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will be closed for holidays May 23rd, May 25th, July 3rd, and July 4th.

Dr. Kenneth S. Robinson “The adaptability of the Free Tax Prep program allowed us to file 700 returns, generating over $600,000 in refunds during the three weeks of our Drive-Thru Drop-Off service, which temporarily closed on April 15th,” said Rev. Kenneth S. Robinson, M.D., President & CEO, United Way of the Mid-South.

“These numbers make it evident that we must continue meeting the needs of our neighbors in this versatile way, ensuring individuals are able to make the most of their refunds.”

No appointment is necessary.

Individuals can call the United Way of the Mid-South Relief Call Center, powered by Driving The Dream at (888) 709-0630 for more information.

Chef Phillip Dewayne cooking love-filled meals for Humes Middle School families TSD Newsroom

Chef Phillip Dewayne (Courtesy photo)

Chef Phillip Dewayne – the owner and operator of Park + Cherry Café inside the Dixon Gallery & Gardens and RECOVER meal prep service – has a treat in the works for families near Humes Middle School.

On Tuesday (May 5), at least 150 students and their parents can pick up a well-balanced meal and a beverage beginning at 4 p.m. at the school located at 659 N. Manassas St. The meals are being donated by philan-

thropists Brad and Felicia Robinson and will be distributed on a firstcome, first-serve basis.

For the past few weeks, Chef Dewayne has been donating meals to front line workers at local hospitals.

Some he finances himself; others with gifts from people who want to show their gratitude. Approached by the Robinson’s to do something for children in the community, he readily agreed.

The Robinson’s are aware of the various disparities families in low-income neighborhoods face, such as

food insecurity. They reasoned that providing meals was a simple and loving way to support the community’s children.

“Many families have lost income while the city tries to stop the spread of coronavirus,” Dewayne said. “Our school system and concerned citizens have been making sure students receive lunch so the Robinson’s and I decided to provide dinner as another way to assist and let the residents know we care about them and their health and nutrition. We hope to receive additional funding to make this

an ongoing effort.”

City Councilwoman Michalyn Easter-Thomas (District 7) helped organize the meal distribution.

“It is my pleasure to connect those who want to help the people of my district,” said Easter-Thomas.

(Any other concerned citizens wanting to donate to Chef Phillip Dewayne’s meal distribution efforts can contact chefphillipdewayne@gmail. com or call 901-296-0507.)

The New Tri-State Defender

April 30 - May 6, 2020

Page 9

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NOTICE TO BIDDERS Shelby County Government has issued Sealed Bid number I000613, Shelby County Assessor’s Office Renovation-Phase V @1075 Mullins Station Road.

Information regarding this Bid is located on the County’s website at www.shelbycountytn.gov . At the top of the home page, click on the dropdown box under “Business”, Click on “Purchasing” and “Bids” to locate the name of the above described Sealed Bid. SEALED BID I000613 DUE DATE MAY 26TH, 2020 AT 2:00 PM CST (SB-I000613) SHELBY COUNTY ASSESSOR’S OFFICE RENOVATION- PHASE V @1075 MULLINS STATION ROAD Site Visit – Please contact Project Manager, Mr. Maurice Denbow @ maurice.denbow@ shelbycountytn.gov or (901) 643-3114 to schedule your site-visit to survey the scope of work.

Shelby County is an equal opportunity affirmative action employer, drug-free with policies of non-discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or military service.

By order of LEE HARRIS, MAYOR SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT NOTICE TO BIDDERS Shelby County Government has issued Sealed Bid number I000622 Big Creek Park Construction- Phase I. Information regarding this Bid is located on the County’s website at www.shelbycountytn.gov . At the top of the home page, click on the dropdown box under “Business”, Click on “Purchasing” and “Bids” to locate the name of the above described Sealed Bid. SEALED BID I000622 DUE DATE MONDAY, JUNE 1ST, 2020 @ 2:00 PM CST (SB-I000622) BIG CREEK PARK CONSTRUCTION- PHASE I All bids will be opened and read via teleconference by Shelby County Government at the time mentioned above. Please use the following information to join the bid opening: To join by phone, call the necessary numbers below: External: +19012222777 Internal: 22777 Meeting ID: 9012222260# Meeting PIN: 06222# Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting – All interested respondents are invited to participate in this meeting via teleconference on Wednesday, May 13, 2020 at 9:30 am (CST).

Please use the following information to join the pre-bid meeting: To join by phone, call the necessary numbers below: External: +19012222777 Internal: 22777

Meeting ID: 9012222260# Meeting PIN: 06222# Respondents may also contact Shelby County for information at the following numbers, TTY Number (901) 222-2301 or for information in Spanish 901222-4289. Shelby County is an equal opportunity affirmative action employer, drug-free, and with policies of non-discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or military service. Shelby County encourages participation from WBE, MBE, LOSB, and Section 3 firms and vendors under this CDBG-NDR response.

By order of LEE HARRIS, MAYOR SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT LEGAL NOTICE Request for Bids RFB Number 20-0029 Warehouse Relocation Services Sealed bids for providing services for the Warehouse Relocation will be received by the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (Authority), Procurement Department, Memphis International Airport, 4121 Runway Road, Suite B, Memphis, TN 38118-6613, until 2:00 PM local time, May 27, 2020.

Responses will be opened and publicly read thirty (30) minutes after the response deadline at the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority’s Project Center located at 4225 Airways Blvd., Memphis, Tennessee 38116. A complete Request for Bids Packet with submittal instructions, additional data, and response format may be found on the Authority’s website on or after April 27, 2020.

All Bidders are responsible for checking the Authority’s website up to the submission deadline for any updates, addenda or additional information.

In accordance with the Authority’s purchasing policies, the Authority will give a preference to businesses located in Shelby County, Tennessee when awarding contracts and making purchases, unless prohibited by law. The successful Bidder must sign a contract with the Authority that includes Federal Aviation Administration provisions, if applicable, regarding the Buy American Preference, Foreign Trade Restriction, Davis-Bacon, Affirmative Action, Debarment and Suspension, and DrugFree Workplace, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

The Authority reserves the right to reject any or all responses to this Request for Bids in whole or in part; to waive any informalities, technicalities, or omissions related to this Request for Bids; and to reject responses on any other basis authorized by the Authority’s purchasing policies.

The Authority is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination based on the grounds of age, race, sex, color, national origin, disability, marital status, military service, or sexual orientation in its hiring

and employment practices and in the admission to, access to, or operation of its programs, services, and activities.

By order of: Scott A. Brockman, A.A.E. President and CEO Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority LEGAL NOTICE Request for Bids MSCAA Project Number 141379-05-01 Baggage Service Offices – Construction

strooms – Construction will be received by the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (Authority), Procurement Department, 4121 Runway Road, Suite B, Memphis, TN 38118, until 1:00 PM local time on 6/1/2020. Bids will not be received at any other location. Within 30 minutes thereafter, the bids will be opened and publicly via teleconference (Phone: (312) 757-3121 / Access Code: 254-073-429).

The Bid Documents, including a description of the scope of work, the required response format, and additional instructions may be obtained on or after April 28, 2020 online at www. flymemphis.com.

Sealed bids for Baggage Service Offices – Construction will be received by the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (Authority), Procurement Department, 4121 Runway Road, Suite B, Memphis, TN 38118, until 2:00 PM Local Time on 6/1/2020. Bids will not be received at any other location. Within 30 minutes thereafter, the bids will be opened and publicly read via teleconference (Phone: (408) 650-3123 / Access Code: 240-552-901). The Bid Documents, including a description of the scope of work, the required response format, and additional instructions may be obtained on or after April 27, 2020 online at www. flymemphis.com.

A Pre-Bid Meeting will be held Tuesday, May 12, 2020, at 2:30 p.m. local time via phone/video conferencing (Link: https://global. gotomeeting.com/join/214529445; Phone: (669) 224-3412 / Access Code: 214-529-445). Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the project site will be available for inspection Wednesday, May 13, 2020 between 9:00-11:00 a.m. by appointment only (limit two representatives per bidder). Site visits can be requested at ecrestrooms@ flymemphis.com. Instructions on Pre-Bid Meeting and Site Visit requests can be found at https:// www.flymemphis.com/rfps-rfqs.

Attendance at the Pre-Bid Meeting is strongly recommended.

A Pre-Bid Meeting will be held Wednesday, May 13, 2020, at 2:30 p.m. local time via phone/video conferencing (Link: https://global. gotomeeting.com/join/118237349; Phone: 1 (224) 501-3412 / Access Code: 118-237-349; meeting ID: 118 237 349 ). Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the project site will be available for inspection Thursday, May 14, 2020 between 1:30-3:30 p.m. by appointment only (limit two representatives per bidder). Site visits can be requested at bsoconstruction@flymemphis.com.

Instructions on Pre-Bid Meeting and Site Visit requests can be found at https://www.flymemphis.com/rfpsrfqs. Attendance at the Pre-Bid Meeting is strongly recommended.

All Bidders are responsible for checking the Authority’s website up to the submission deadline for any updates, addenda or additional information. The successful Bidder must sign a contract with the Authority that includes Federal Aviation Administration provisions, if applicable, regarding the Buy American Preference, Foreign Trade Restriction, Davis-Bacon, Affirmative Action, Debarment and Suspension, and Drug-Free Workplace, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

All Bidders are responsible for checking the Authority’s website up to the submission deadline for any updates, addenda or additional information. The successful Bidder must sign a contract with the Authority that includes Federal Aviation Administration provisions, if applicable, regarding the Buy American Preference, Foreign Trade Restriction, Davis-Bacon, Affirmative Action, Debarment and Suspension, and Drug-Free Workplace, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Each bid must be made by a contractor licensed in Tennessee and be accompanied by a 5% Bid Guarantee. The successful bidder must execute a Performance Bond and a Payment Bond in the amount of 100% each of the Contract Price and meet the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation goal for this project, which is 21%.

The Authority reserves the right to reject any or all responses to this Request for Bids in whole or in part; to waive any informalities, technicalities, or omissions related to this Request for Bids; and to reject responses on any other basis authorized by the Authority’s purchasing policies.

The Authority is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination based on the grounds of age, race, sex, color, national origin, disability, marital status, military service, or sexual orientation in its hiring and employment practices and in the admission to, access to, or operation of its programs, services, and activities.

By order of: Scott A. Brockman, A.A.E. President and CEO Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority LEGAL NOTICE Request for Bids MSCAA Project Number 141379-47-01 East Cargo Building Restrooms Sealed bids for East Cargo Re-

Each bid must be made by a contractor licensed in Tennessee and be accompanied by a 5% Bid Guarantee. The successful bidder must execute a Performance Bond and a Payment Bond in the amount of 100% each of the Contract Price. The bidder must be DBE-, ACDBE-, or SBE-certified.

Subcontractors and suppliers are not required to be certified.

The Authority reserves the right to reject any or all responses to this Request for Bids in whole or in part; to waive any informalities, technicalities, or omissions related to this Request for Bids; and to reject responses on any other basis authorized by the Authority’s purchasing policies.

The Authority is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination based on the grounds of age, race, sex, color, national origin, disability, marital status, military service, or sexual orientation in its hiring and employment practices and in the admission to, access to, or operation of its programs, services, and activities.

By order of: Scott A. Brockman, A.A.E. President and CEO Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority PUBLIC NOTICE SHELBY COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AMENDMENT TO THE CONSOLIDATED PLAN ALLOCATION OF CBDG-CV FUNDS AS A RESULT OF THE CARES ACT PROPOSED CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN Shelby County has received a special allocation of Community Development Block Grant funds to be used to prevent, prepare for, and respond to the coronavirus.

This allocation was authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), Public Law 116-136, which was signed by President Trump on March 27, 2020, to respond to the growing effects of this historic public health crisis. The CARES Act made available $5 billion in Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus (CDBG-CV) funds. Of this amount, the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban

Development (HUD) is immediately allocating $2 billion based on the fiscal year 2020 CDBG formula.

The remaining $3 billion shall be allocated based on needs using best available data, in the following tranches: $1 billion shall be allocated to States and insular areas within 45 days of enactment of the Cares Act, and $2 billion shall be distributed to states and local governments at the discretion of the Secretary. Up to $10 million will be set aside for technical assistance.

Given the immediate needs faced by our communities, HUD has announced the first allocation of funds. Shelby County’s allocation is $704,206 in CDBG-CV funds to address the needs in low- to moderate- income areas of Shelby County outside of the City of Memphis.

On April 1, 2020, HUD released a memorandum on Availability of Waivers of Community Planning and Development (CPD) Grant Program and Consolidated Plan Requirements to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 and Mitigate Economic Impacts Caused

by COVID-19. Two waivers were made available in relation to consolidated plan requirements and are detailed below. Shelby County Government proposes amending the Citizen Participation Plan in order to use the two waivers to consolidated plan requirements through the end of program year 2020 which is June 30, 2021.

Citizen Participation Public Comment Period for Consolidated Plan Amendment Requirement: 30-day Public Comment Period.

Citations: 24 CFR 91.105(c)(2) and (k), 24 CFR 91.115(c)(2) and (i) and 24 CFR 91.401 Explanation: A CPD grantee may amend an approved consolidated plan in accordance with 24 CFR 91.505. Substantial amendments to the consolidated plan are subject to the citizen participation process in the grantee’s citizen participation plan. The citizen participation plan must provide citizens with 30 days to comment on substantial amendments.

Justification: Given the need to expedite actions to respond to COVID-19, HUD waives 24 CFR 91.105(c)(2) and (k), 91.115(c)(2) and (i) as specified below, in order to balance the need to respond quickly to the growing spread and effects of COVID-19 with the statutory requirement to provide reasonable notice and opportunity for citizens to comment on substantial amendments concerning the proposed uses of CDBG, HOME, HTF, HOPWA or ESG funds.

Applicability: This 30-day minimum for the required public comment period is waived for substantial amendments, provided that no less than 5 days are provided for public comments on each substantial amendment. The waiver is available through the end of the recipient’s 2020 program year.

Any recipient wishing to undertake further amendments to prior year plans following the 2020 program year can do so during the development of its FY 2021 Annual Action Plan.

Implementation in Shelby County: Effective May 11, 2020 through June 30, 2021, the citizen participation public comment period for substantial amendments is 5 days.

Citizen Participation Reasonable Notice and Opportunity to Comment Requirement: Reasonable Notice and Opportunity to Comment.

Citations: 24 CFR 91.105(c)(2) and (k), 24 CFR 91.115(c)(2) and (i) and 24 CFR 91.401 Explanation: As noted above, the regulations at 24 CFR 91.105 (for local governments) and 91.115 (for States) set forth the citizen participation plan requirements for recipients. For substantial amendments to the consolidated plan, the regulations require the recipient to follow its citizen participation plan to provide citizens with reasonable notice and opportunity to comment. The citizen participation plan must state how reasonable notice and opportunity to comment will be given.

Justification: HUD recognizes the efforts to contain COVID-19 require limiting public gatherings, such as those often used to obtain citizen participation, and that there is a need to respond quickly to the growing spread and effects of COVID-19. Therefore, HUD waives 24 CFR 91.105(c)(2) and (k), 24 CFR 91.115(c)(2) and (i) and 24 CFR 91.401 as specified below to allow these grantees to determine what constitutes reasonable notice and opportunity to comment given their circumstances.

Applicability: This authority is in effect through the end of the 2020 program year.

Implementation in Shelby County: Effective May 11, 2020 through June 30, 2021, reasonable notice and opportunity to comment will be provided via public notice and at least one virtual public hearing.

Public notices will be published the Memphis Flyer, La Prensa Latina (a bilingual publication serving the Hispanic population), and in the New Tri-State Defender or the Silver Star News (publications serving the African American population). The County will also distribute public notices through the Department of Housing website and the City of Memphis main library listserv. The public notices will include date/time and access information on the virtual public hearing where citizens can provide comments and ask questions.

As a result of the special allocation of CDBG-CV and waivers to consolidated plan requirements, SCDH proposes amending the PY 2019 Annual Action Plan to reflect the $704,206 in CDBG-CV funds to be used for Public Service Activities. Also proposed is an amendment to the Citizen Participation Plan to make use of the two waivers to consolidated plan requirements which are detailed above.

The substantial amendment to the PY 2019 Annual Action Plan and the Proposed Citizen Participation Plan will be available for public review from May 4, 2020 through May 8, 2020 on the Department of Housing webpage on the Shelby County Government website at the following link: http://www. shelbycountytn.gov/3103/Reports-and-Plans. This information will also be distributed via email through the City of Memphis main library listserv.

In order to solicit public comments on the Amendment to the Consolidated Plan and Proposed Citizen Participation Plan, SCDH will hold a virtual public hearing; Tuesday, May 5, 2020 at 5:30pm.

To join the virtual hearing go to this web address https://zoom. us/j/3793977959 or dial (301) 715-8592 and enter meeting ID: 3793977959. If you plan to attend the public hearing and have special needs, please contact the Department of Housing at Sydney. wright@shelbycountytn.gov by Monday, May 4, 2020 and we will work to accommodate you.

Written comments should be addressed to Ms. Sydney Wright (Sydney.wright@shelbycountytn. gov), Shelby County Department of Housing, 1075 Mullins Station Road, Memphis, TN 38134. SCDH will respond to written comments within five working days of their receipt. For questions concerning the Amendment to the Consolidated Plan and/or the Proposed Citizen Participation Plan, please contact the Sydney Wright or for TTY at 901- 222-2301.

Para mas información en Español, por favor llame al 901-222-3993.

The Shelby County Department of Housing does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age or disability in employment or provision of services. Equal opportunity/equal access provider.

Lee Harris Shelby County Mayor Attest: Scott Walkup, Administrator Department of Housing

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The New Tri-State Defender

April 30 - May 6, 2020

Page 10

We’ll get through this COVID-19 health challenge together.

We’re here for you every step of the way.

To help you get the health care you need, we’ve: Waived member costs for COVID-19 treatment until May 31, 2020. That means if you’re diagnosed with COVID-19, you won’t have to pay for your treatment with network providers.

Eliminated member costs associated with COVID-19 testing. That means if you’re tested, you won’t have to pay for the test or doctor visit for it.

Relaxed rules for safer access to prescriptions. That means you can get early refills and 90-day mail order refills on your maintenance medications so you can shelter at home easier.

Expanded telehealth care options.

That means you can have a video or phone visit with your in-network providers who offer it, keeping you safer at home.

We’re also helping feed Tennesseans.

Many in our state sadly are worried where their next meal will be coming from.

Our BlueCross Foundation donated $3.25 million to food banks across our state to help all our neighbors.

1 Cameron Hill Circle | Chattanooga, TN 37402 | bcbst.com BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, Inc., an Independent Licensee of the BlueCross BlueShield Association

We can’t remove the threat or fear this virus has created.

But we can make it easier for you to get the care you need.

We’re right here for Tennessee.

To learn more, please visit BCBSTupdates.com.