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Frayser testing-center visit positions Gov. Lee to pitch outreach, extend praise

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The turnout was heavy on Saturday as drive-thru COVID-19 testing was offered at Christ Community Health Services in Frayser. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises)

Frayser is one of the communities that Gov. Bill Lee references when he says, “We’ve made a particular effort to reach out into communities we hope will be more engaged in testing.”

That’s largely why he was at the Christ Community Health Services’ Frayser Center on Saturday.

“We want people to trust the process,” said Lee.

Gov. Bill Lee emphasizes a point during an exchange at the Christ Community Health Services drive-thru testing site in Frayser. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises)

Saturday’s Frayser visit was a part of a larger effort of some 18 open-testing sites to test at least 10,000 individuals in one day. A collaborative meeting of clinic directors greeted the governor.

“We’re just so grateful to Gov. Bill Lee and the state of Tennessee who sent us 600 additional test kits this week,” said Shantelle Leatherwood, Christ Community Health Services CEO Leatherwood. “Normally, we have been limited in our testing. We screen and test people who are experiencing flu-like symptoms. We schedule approximately 100 tests per day, with a 20-30 percent no-show rate.”

Dr. Ariel Long, a physician for Cherokee Health, was also on hand for Lee’s visit. Cherokee Health provides COVID-19 testing as part of the safety net medical system for indigent patients.

“We take patients who don’t have insurance and use a sliding scale for payment. This means that those who don’t have money for a regular doctor’s visit can still be treated,” Long said. “Our Frayser location has already been set up for drive-thru testing, and we are going to set up (a) Parkway Village location next week.”

Suited health-care workers were kept busy with testing that was available without a doctor’s referral or displayed symptoms. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises)

Ahead of Lee’s visit, the Tennessee Black Caucus of State Legislators (TBCSL) on Friday sent a letter to Lee’s office citing a concern associated with the fact that the African-American community in Memphis and the country as a whole is being disproportionately affected by the coronavirus.

“One of our biggest problems is that data is not being collected properly so that racial percentages are recorded,” said State Rep. G.A. Hardaway, the caucus’ chairman.

“In the federal CARES Act, our state gets money contingent on its Title VI. Compliance. That means those tested and treated must be identified fully with racial, gender, and other types of information.

Christ Community Health Services has eight health centers strategically located in underserved areas in Shelby County. Three other health systems – Memphis Health Center, Tri-State Health and Cherokee Health – comprise the safety net of care for Shelby County’s indigent population and those without health insurance.

The response to available coronavirus testing was self-evident. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises)

In Frayser on Saturday, hundreds of cars lined Frayser Blvd. for the special COVID-19 testing event, which offered a test to anyone, even without symptoms and a physician’s referral.

“I’m so very proud of what’s happening in this state,” Lee said. “The way people have stepped up and stayed home and done what everyone has asked them to do, I just want to thank everyone for that. People’s lives are going to be saved because you are doing this.

Gov. Lee cheerleading for testing in Frayser at the Christ Community Health Services drive-thru testing site. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises)

“And to the staff, you should be proud of the role you are playing. Tennessee was one of the first five states to test in the country.”

Lee ended his visit with prayer with clinic directors for their continued strength and direction in meeting the challenges presented by COVID-19.

 

 

 

 

TSD COVID-19 Flash! — Sen. Akbari plans town halls, numbers, Gov. Lee in Memphis, music vibe: “Lovely Day”

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"Aliens" left this message on a mural-adorned wall near Southwest Tennessee Community College's Union Campus. (Photo: Karanja A. Ajanaku)
Sen. Raumesh Akbari

Sen. Raumesh Akbari says that on the way to “a new normal” her goal is to make leaders accessible to the people of Memphis to answer questions and listen to what families are going through. That’s the thrust of a series of COVID-19 town hall meetings that begin Monday (April 27).

The meetings are crafted to provide up-to-date information on topics such as benefits for small businesses and workers who lost income due to the pandemic. The series will start with Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bob Rolfe, who will discuss support available to small business owners in Tennessee.

On Tuesday, Akbari (District 29) will host Ninth District Congressman Steve Cohen, who will discuss the CARES Act and what the funding means for Memphis and Tennessee.

“Everyone wants life to return to normal, but we have to listen to the public health experts, who know how to best handle coronavirus to guide us through this health crisis,” Akbari said.

Here’s the town hall schedule:

April 27: Small Business Support
Commissioner Bob Rolfe, Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development
Registration Link<https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIlfumsrjgvGtT1Ah3y1MTXNZ2DE0oaTeeH>

April 28: CARES Act: What it means for Tennesseans
U.S. Congressman Steve Cohen
Registration Link<https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0pde-qrDIsHdQlR0lbgcB27RTMjeE2rCSQ>

April 29: Criminal Justice
Commissioner Tony Parker, Tennessee Department of Correction
Registration Link<https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIvcOqrqj4rEtCyLeo57ubpA0oHnKeqhjKb>

April 30: Unemployment Due to Covid-19
Stamatia XiXis, legislative director for the Department of Labor and Workforce Development
Registration Link<https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAkd-urpz8iHNdQXGHmAfwm_Ta7pUi5jhzM>

May 1: COVID-19 Family Support Town Hall
Commissioner Danielle Barnes, Tennessee Department of Human Services
Chief of Staff Whitney Page, Tennessee Department of Human Services
Registration Link<https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwudOCtrz4uHtJGVP07EFFBdy86Xt0hlfzr>


Gov. Bill Lee visits Memphis (April 25, 2020)

At Christ Community Health Center in Frayser on Saturday Gov. Lee said “Thank you!” — on behalf of Memphis-Shelby County residents — for the drive-thru COVID-19 testing. He prayed for God’s help and strength as “we walk through this pandemic.” (Photo: Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell)

Story developing. Check back with TSDMemphis.com


Shelby County Health Department COVID-19 Daily Update: April 26, 2020

Shelby County currently has 2,133 confirmed COVID-19 cases. The total number of deaths in Shelby County attributed to COVID-19 is 45.

For more information, visit: Shelby County Health Department has added a data page to its COVID-19 webpage: www.shelbytnhealth.com/coronavirus.


Today’s TSD Music Vibe:

 

Pandemic pressure adds to weight of recovery for those battling addiction

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The COVID-19 virus presents unique challenges for people already struggling in recovery from alcohol or drug addiction, according to local counselors and pastors.

In addition to sickness and death, the pandemic has caused many non-essential businesses to shut down. The devastating result is that since mid-March, more than 15 million American lost their jobs, according to a report by USA Today. If that trend continues, the unemployment rate could climb to nearly 16 percent, according to estimates by the Economic Policy Institute, a nonpartisan think tank.

Counselors say if a recovering alcoholics or addicts finds themselves facing a layoff, it would mean extra pressure and possible relapse.

Dr. Leon Edwards

Dr. Leon Edwards, a licensed clinical social worker, said he works with many people in recovery and that having a job helps them stay sober because it gives them something to focus on besides drinking or taking drugs.

“I have one client who is a waiter,” Edwards said. “They can’t wait on anyone. This person depends on family and friends (for extra money) until this thing is lifted.”

So far, Edwards said his patient has kept busy working the drive-through and helping out in the kitchen on his job.

He said he has other patients who have had their hours reduced, but are still working.

Edwards said jobs provide an anchor for people in recovery and losing that anchor can help cause them to relapse.

This is especially true if they don’t talk about their layoff or their struggles with alcohol and drugs with a self-help group, sponsor or anyone else.

Edwards said patients should talk about a job loss and the stress it generates with other people as much as possible because, “the more you talk about it the less power it has over you…

“I try to get them to look at the positive aspects, getting more time to spend with their family, getting to do that project they want to do but haven’t had the time for,” he said.

“I always preach to the clients that I serve, have open dialogue with your spouse,” Edwards said, “Be as transparent as possible. You have one time to mess things up.”

Edwards said there are also online support groups and other online services like Zoom that allow people to have virtual meetings to share their thoughts and concerns.

Ray Smith, admissions coordinator for the Oaks at La Paloma, said staying sober while facing a layoff or other hardship because of the COVID-19 virus can depend on where someone is or how far they are in their recovery.

“Are they mentally prepared to deal with this,” he said. “They may be nervous and anxious like everybody else. They may need some extra help.”

Dr. Stacy L. Spencer, senior pastor of New Direction Christian Church, said COVID-19 has caused unique problems for everyone. He said the virus and the lost jobs and other negative effects it causes provide challenges.

But he said there are ways we can stay connected, through the internet, and support each other.

“AA and groups like it help keep alcoholics and addicts accountable,” he said, about self-help groups.

Spencer said it is time to “be innovative” in thinking of ways to stay together as a community and giving each other support during these stressful times.

 

TSD COVID-19 Flash! — Abortions ruling, numbers, Rep. Maxine Waters shares, today’s music vibe: “Inner City Blues”

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This mural near Southwest Tennessee Community College is a reminder of the cycles in life. (Photo: Karanja A. Ajanaku)

Appeals court: Tennessee must continue allowing abortions

NASHVILLE (AP) — A federal appeals court has ruled that Tennessee must continue allowing abortions amid a temporary ban on nonessential medical procedures during the COVID-19outbreak.

The ruling follows a U.S. District judge’s order last week that abortions could proceed during the pandemic.

The Sixth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals, based in Cincinnati, issued its opinion Friday. The justices wrote that courts must give governments flexibility to respond to a crisis.

“Affording flexibility, however, is not the same as abdicating responsibility, especially when well-established constitutional rights are at stake, as the right to an abortion most assuredly is,” the court wrote in the 33-page opinion.

Tennessee’s attorney general had argued that abortions are not being singled out but treated like any other procedure that is not necessary to prevent death or serious bodily injury. Gov. Bill Lee issued an emergency order April 8 banning nonessential procedures for three weeks.

Alex Rieger, representing the Tennessee attorney general’s office, argued in court last week that the ban was to preserve the limited supply of protective equipment for doctors fighting COVID-19 and to help prevent the community spread of the disease.

Several other states are grappling with similar issues. Judges in the past week have ruled to allow abortions to continue in Arkansas, Oklahoma, Ohio and Texas.


Shelby County Health Department COVID-19 Daily Update: April 25, 2020

Shelby County currently has 2038 confirmed COVID-19 cases. The total number of deaths in Shelby County attributed to COVID-19 is 44.

 


Memphis Health Center gets grant funding

Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) on Friday announced that Memphis Health Center Inc. will receive a $3,758,920 grant from the Department of Health and Human Services. 

“Memphis Health Center and other community health centers are on the front lines as the coronavirus pandemic spreads through our region,” Cohen said in a released statement. “This funding is especially important and timely as we see growing evidence of the virus disproportionately affecting African Americans and those with underlying health risks.

“Memphis Health Center is providing access to testing and care for those affected by the virus and continues to support our underserved communities.”


Maxine Waters says her sister near death with COVID-19

NNPA NEWSWIRE — “I’m going to take a moment to dedicate this legislation to my dear sister, who is dying in a hospital in St. Louis, Missouri right now, infected by the coronavirus,” Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) announced as she voted on a new coronavirus small business package. READ more


Today’s TSD music vibe:


Playing golf with a pandemic handicap

The African American Golfers Digest notes that “many medical experts” consider golf one of the safest activities to participate in during the COVID-19 pandemic, as long as you take proper precautions.  READ more 


 

 

 

 

Tennessee won’t enforce new reopening guidelines

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Photo by Robin Rudd / Some of the signs present expressed a more utilitarian message. A Freedom Rally was held on the Market Street Bridge in Chattanooga, Tennessee on April 19, 2020 to protest governmental measures taken during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Robin Rudd/Chattanooga Times Free Press via AP)

by Kimberlee Kruesi and Jonathan Mattise —

Gov. Bill Lee on Friday released more details about how restaurants and retail stores across most of Tennessee should reopen next week to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, while acknowledging the state will not enforce such measures to ensure implementation.

The Republican governor argued that businesses and consumers will be in charge of ensuring that the state’s new recommendations, dubbed the “Tennessee pledge,” are practiced.

“We think that the consumers will enforce them, the business community itself will enforce them, the industry groups that have influence and impact and developed guidelines for industries, that’s how this is going to be enforced,” Lee told reporters.

Tennessee unveiled the new guidelines the same day as some businesses began slowly reopening in Georgia. Yet several public health experts have warned that reopening a state too soon could result in a new surge in coronavirus infections.
Gov. Bill Lee during an earlier COVID-19 update visit to Memphis. (Photo: Screen capture)

Lee, who was in Memphis today (April 25) to observe Christ Community Health Services COVID 19 testing in Frayser, has defended reopening large parts of the state’s economy by arguing that Tennessee has seen a steady decline in the growth rate of new cases, as well as stressing the importance of helping the thousands of Tennesseans who have lost their job due to COVID-19.

The reopening plan applies to 89 out of the state’s 95 counties. It does not apply to Tennessee’s largest cities, including Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville and Chattanooga, leaving that decision to metro leaders — who have all held off from promising to reopen by any particular date.

“As far as the state goes, you kind of have to ask them what they’re looking at because if you look at the overall state numbers they’re climbing,” said Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke, who said his city would not be reopening Monday. “Most of what we’ve been seeing is that public health experts want to see consistent decline before you alter your regime and get more people together.”

Berke said being nestled along the Tennessee-Georgia border has created confusion for many residents trying to figure out what restrictions apply to them.

“We know what happens in one place effects the other,” he said. “So as Georgia has even more openings than in Tennessee and Tennessee has more openings than Chattanooga, it creates a lot of confusion for people and a lot of concern.”

Meanwhile, Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris on Friday extended a stay-at-home order until April 30. It applies to residents who live outside the city of Memphis but live in suburban municipalities such as Collierville and Germantown. Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland this week extended the city’s order until May 5.

Both mayors in Tennessee’s largest county have said gradual steps to ease restrictions on businesses and other aspects of daily life will likely be taken after those orders expire.

Shelby County has reported 1,981 cases and 43 deaths. County health department epidemiologist David Sweat said cases have increased this week at a daily rate of about 35-50 cases, indicating the reported number of new cases may have plateaued on a day-to-day basis.

“That is good news,” Sweat said.

Local leaders in Knoxville say business won’t reopen until at least May 1.

According to Lee’s guidelines, restaurants in most of the state may reopen dine-in service Monday and retail stores may reopen in-person shopping Wednesday. Further guidance for gyms, salons, barbershops and other close-contact shops will be handed down next week, Lee said, but those businesses will likely reopen later in May.

Both restaurants and stores are urged to keep capacity at 50 percent. Employees are told to wear cloth masks and gloves.

The state also suggests that restaurants should sanitize contact surfaces every two hours, avoid self-serve buffets and limit seating to six people per table. Live music is also discouraged.

“We believe the Tennessee Pledge will allow us a mechanism for businesses to rally around providing a safe environment for their workers,” Department of Tourist Development Mark Ezell said.

For retailers, the state asks businesses to encourage customers to wear masks, implement one-way aisles and increase curbside services.

“Only by working together as a community of volunteers can we successfully reboot our economy, a vital component of our lives, our security, our liberty, and successfully move through this public health crisis,” Lee said.

Tennessee had more than 8,700 confirmed cases of COVID-19 as of Thursday, a jump in more than 460 positive cases from the day before. At least 168 residents have died.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up within weeks. For some, especially older adults and those with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness and be life-threatening.

(Adrian Sainz contributed to this report from Memphis, Tennessee. Follow AP coverage of the pandemic at https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak and https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak)

Hard work pays off for UofM’s Gibson with draft by Washington

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Antonio Gibson proved too much to handle for Cincinatti in the 2019 AAC Championship game at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium. (Photo: Warren Roseborough)

With the 66th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, the Washington Redskins chose Antonio Gibson, the University of Memphis multiple-offensive threat.

When you play as Antonio Gibson did in the AAC Championship you get the MVP trophy. (Photo: Warren Roseborough)

In Gibson, Washington gets the 2019 American Athletic Conference Special Teams Player of the Year and an all-conference wide receiver. He is the first Tiger selected in this year’s draft.

After two seasons at East Central (Miss.) Community College, Gibson became a two-year letter-winner for the Tigers. This past season he appeared in all 28 games at Memphis with 11 starts.

Gibson caught 44 passes for 834 yards and 10 TDs for the Tigers. That included 38 catches for 735 yards and eight TDs in 2019 while helping Memphis to an AAC Championship and a Goodyear Cotton Bowl appearance.

After playing behind 2019 NFL draftees Darrell Henderson and Tony Pollard, Gibson spent some time at running back in his senior campaign, finishing with 33 rushes for 369 yards and four touchdowns.

He also took over at kickoff return following the graduation of Pollard, who shared the NCAA career KOR touchdown record (7) before being drafted by the Cowboys in 2019. Gibson finished with 24 kickoff returns for 647 yards and one touchdown.

His play at wideout, running back and kickoff return helped Gibson tally 1,749 all-purpose yards in 2019 as a senior, a total that ranks fifth in Memphis history.

He was named the Walter Camp National Offensive Player of the Week on Nov. 4 after recording 368 all-purpose yards against then-undefeated SMU. In that game, nationally-televised after Memphis hosted ESPN’s GameDay that morning, Gibson scored three touchdowns (one rushing, one receiving and one kickoff return TD).

In the AAC championship game, Gibson finished with 234 all-purpose yards and two touchdowns, including a game-winning, six-yard reception with 1:14 remaining. He was named the AAC Championship MVP for his efforts and helped Memphis earn its first-ever New Year’s Six bowl berth.

In the Cotton Bowl, Gibson finished with 117 all-purpose yards. He completed his collegiate career with an invitation to the Senior Bowl, where he competed as a running back.


GALLERY: Photos by Warren Roseborough


This marks the seventh-straight season Memphis football has had a player drafted.

  • 2020   Antonio Gibson, RB, Washington Redskins, Third Round, Pick 66
  • 2019   Darrell Henderson, RB, Los Angeles Rams, Third Round, Pick 70
  • 2019   Tony Pollard, RB, Dallas Cowboys, Fourth Round, Pick 128
  • 2018   Anthony Miller, WR, Chicago Bears, Second Round, Pick 51
  • 2018   Genard Avery, LB, Cleveland Browns, Fifth Round, Pick 150
  • 2017   Jake Elliott, Place-Kicker, Cincinnati Bengals, Fifth Round, Pick 118
  • 2016   Paxton Lynch, Quarterback, Denver Broncos, First Round, Pick 22
  • 2015   Bobby McCain, Cornerback, Miami Dolphins, Fifth Round, Pick 145
  • 2015   Martin Ifedi, Defensive End, St. Louis Rams, Seventh Round, Pick 227
  • 2014   Lonnie Ballentine, Defensive Back, Houston Texas, Pick 256

Gibson is the fifth Tiger drafted by Washington:

  • 1983 – Richard Williams
  • 1975 – Carl Taylor
  • 1970 – Danny Pierce
  • 1954 – Will Renfro).

Source: -www.gotigersgo.com

 

 

 

About that question: When will you have a baby?

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Raimin and Mishala Holmes are shown here before the birth of their baby boy and after Mishala was diagnosed with Antiphospholipid Syndrome. (Courtesy photo)

by Brittany Holst —

“When will you have a baby? You aren’t getting any younger!”

“Your child needs a brother or a sister to play with, are you going to have anymore?”

TSD iMom columnist Brittany Holst (Photo: Shirley Jackson)

Asking such questions most often reflect curiosity with no ill intent. However, for some the questions could trigger a flow of emotions for varying reasons.

Some women dream of having a basketball team of babies, while others are content with one or two. There are some women who want to wait until they are successful in their careers with financial stability, while others have no desire for children.

The list of reasons for not having a child can include those who may struggle with infertility or have experienced a miscarriage or stillbirth.

According to the American Pregnancy Association, infertility affects 10-15 percent of couples within the United States. And studies have shown 10 percent to 25 percent of all clinically recognized pregnancies will end in a miscarriage.

No matter the case, simply asking questions about when one may conceive can stir up deep emotions.

One of my friends, who is not even 30 years old, told me that she was very offended when someone said to her, “What are you waiting for? You’re not getting any younger, your eggs are rotting.”

In a report published by the Center for Disease Control in 2016, “Mean Age of Mothers is on the Rise: United States, 2000–2014,” the average age of first-time mothers has risen from 24.9 years in 2000 to 26.3 years in 2014.

The statistics do not take into consideration those who have had unsuccessful pregnancies due to miscarriages or stillbirths. Individuals do not often speak openly about such situations.

However, Mishala Holmes, mother of a newborn, tells her story of issues she dealt with during her pregnancies.

A few years ago, she was expecting the birth of her daughter and preparing for her college graduation.

“At 31 weeks pregnant, my world and my life completely changed. After not feeling movement from my baby, I went into the hospital only to discover that there was no heartbeat (the child was still born) and there was what seemed to be a clot in her umbilical cord. A few years went by, healing took place and I finally was able to move on and life changed for me,” she said.

Mishala married Raimin Holmes, Sr. in 2019. When she discovered she was pregnant, she became really anxious.

“I immediately began to think ‘what if’ and lived everyday wondering if I’d suddenly stop feeling movement again. Three years after the day I lost my first born, I was finally diagnosed with Antiphospholipid Syndrome.

“Essentially, my blood clots every time my blood count levels are higher in my body. So, that meant that every pregnancy from this one to the next calls for daily blood thinner injections in my belly,” Mishala explained.

Many women experience several emotions after losing a child and later finding they are pregnant again. There are feelings of joy, cautiousness, nervousness and fear all at the same time.

“Though nervous at first, I was willing to do whatever it took to keep my child and myself alive and healthy. Many women are faced with the fear of not being able to conceive or not even being able to carry their children to term,” Mishala said.

“I was one of those women. For this reason, people must approach with caution when questioning the womb of a woman. Many are battling secret stories that nobody may ever know.

“Many are praying with their spouses for the strength to carry their baby to term. As I now sit and hold my son every day, I appreciate every battle I went through to get here,” she said.

“Though I would give anything to have my first born here with me, I know that she is in a better place and I am blessed with a beautiful baby boy that brings me so much joy.”

Is there anything wrong with having only one child or even no children at all?

Children are a big responsibility and I salute all mothers making a way for themselves and their child(ren). I understand why some women prefer to wait longer to have a child as it allows them time to establish themselves professionally and find stability.

Regardless of how many children a person has, be mindful when asking women about bearing children. It can be a touchy subject as one does not know the experiences others have gone through.

(Brittany Jackson was part of the first corps of iTeen reporters for The New Tri-State Defender. Now as Brittany Holst, her iMom column is a periodic look at motherhood through millennial eyes.)

 

TSD COVID-19 Flash! – Reopening moves, people stepping up, more testing, a ‘virtual’ summit, music vibe: “Back In Stride Again”

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This sign of support conveys a heartfealt message to passersby on McLean in Midtown. (Photo: Karanja A. Ajanaku)

Lee issues guidelines for restaurants, retail stores to reopen in 89 counties

Gov. Bill Lee today issued the first steps from the “Tennessee Pledge,” the state’s rollout of guidance and best practices for Tennessee businesses in 89 of the state’s 95 counties to keep employees and customers safe during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The first industries to receive guidance through the plan include the restaurant and retail industries.

The state is working with Shelby, Madison, Davidson, Hamilton, Knox, and Sullivan on plans to reopen businesses in those counties.

“Tennesseans pulled together to flatten the curve, and it is time for people to begin to get back to work and back to their businesses,” Lee said. “We are pursuing a careful, measured approach to reopening our economy that does not depend on heavy-handed mandates but instead provides practical tools for businesses of all sizes.”

Lee underscored the Tennessee Pledge plan for safe economic recovery is supported by data showing Tennessee’s curve of novel coronavirus infections hitting a plateau.

Tennessee has seen the average daily growth rate remain stable for 14 days, in addition to a steady downward trajectory in positive tests as a percentage of total tests since April 1. The state has also ramped up testing, including open testing available to all Tennesseans across 33 sites over last weekend, 18 this weekend, and more the next.

Meanwhile, 15 percent of Tennessee’s workforce filed unemployment claims as of this week – more than 400,000 people. State officials predict a $5 billion loss in the state’s gross domestic product during 2020.

Gov. Bill Lee as he explained his shelter in place order. (TSD file photo via TN.gov)

Lee announced Tennessee restaurants are able to reopen Monday at 50 percent occupancy. Additionally, Tennessee retailers are able to reopen on Wednesday at 50 percent occupancy. The state recommends that employees in both industries wear cloth face coverings and that business owners follow federal guidelines for hygiene and workplace sanitation standards related to the pandemic. The full guidance offered by the state for both sectors can be found here.

“Like the rest of the country, Tennessee has taken an unprecedented economic hit with families and small businesses feeling the most pain,” Lee said. “We must stay vigilant as a state, continue to practice social distancing, and engage in best practices at our businesses so that we can stay open.”

Lee’s administration assembled the Tennessee Economic Recovery Group, pulling together the state’s departments of tourism, economic development, and revenue, members of the Tennessee General Assembly, and business leaders to safely reboot Tennessee’s economy. The group is chaired by Tennessee Department of Tourist Development Commissioner Mark Ezell.

Ezell said the state’s guidelines for restaurants and retail stores were developed in cooperation with business leaders in both sectors, mayors from across the state, and members of the legislature and health experts, as well as Unified Command which includes the Tennessee Department of Health.

He added the reopening of future sectors would be accomplished with similar input from industry leaders and elected officials.

“We need Tennessee businesses, workers, and consumers to step up and pledge to follow these guidelines,” Ezell said. “It is critically important that we maintain our commitment to social distancing and adhere to these new guidelines so that we can continue to reopen our economy.”


Memphis Education Fund Donates $150,000 to support students, families

Memphis Education Fund (MEF) has donated $150,000 to assist struggling families and to provide technology for students.

MEF is contributing $100,000 in “Family Relief Grants” to help over 500 Shelby County Schools (SCS) and Achievement School District (ASD), including many charter schools, families, and 1,300 students that are struggling to stay financially afloat during the pandemic.

Households receiving grants are being referred by MEF’s community partners. The grants, which range from $150 to $250 per household, can be used for rent, utilities, medical and sanitizing products, transportation, and student education supplies.

Additionally, to help narrow the digital equity gap, MEF is donating $50,000 to SCS fundraising intermediary School Seed and the Tennessee Charter School Center to provide laptops and devices.

Terence Patterson

“When our public schools were forced to close, district leaders and educators here in Shelby County immediately swung into action to address the most pressing needs — prioritizing student and teacher health, providing food to students in need, and supporting parents as the shift began to support remote learning and home instruction,” said Terence Patterson, CEO of the Memphis Education Fund.

“The Memphis Education Fund, in partnership with our local grantees, is pleased to be able to support these efforts to advance learning and access across our community.  We hope others will join this conversation and help.”

(For more information about the Memphis Education Fund and these efforts, visit www.MemphisEducationFund.org.)


UTHSC opens COVID-19 testing site in Frayer

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center is adding new drive-thru testing sites that will be open a few days a week in areas of need in the community. The first site opened Tuesday in Frayser at the North Frayser Community Center, 2555 Saint Elmo Ave.

“We are hopeful that this testing will allow us to better understand the incidence of COVID-19 in symptomatic patients, so that we can reduce spread throughout our region,” said College of Medicine Dean Scott Strome, MD.

The Frayser site is a similar, but smaller, version of the drive-thru testing site at Tiger Lane at the Mid-South Fairgrounds that was established in March by UTHSC and its affiliated clinical practice partner, University Clinical Health, in collaboration with the Shelby County Health Department and the City of Memphis.

The scheduling procedure at the new site also is similar to that used for Tiger Lane. Appointments can be made by texting “covid” to 901.203.5526.

Jon McCullers, MD, interim senior executive associate dean for Clinical Affairs in the UTHSC College of Medicine, said he expects the fairgrounds site to remain the primary UTHSC testing location.

While the Frayser site will be open only one day this week, it is tentatively scheduled to be open Monday through Wednesday next week. Tiger Lane will be open Thursday through Saturday. The hours are tentatively 8:45 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.

Jon McCullers, MD. (Photo: Allen Gillespie/UTHSC)

“It’s an evolving process, as we’re trying to figure out what’s the best way to meet the needs of the community,” Dr. McCullers said. He added that the two may operate at the same time in the future, if the demand warrants, as guidelines for who can be tested ease to include those with mild or moderate symptoms.

Initial discussions by the university about opening several sites have evolved as more organizations have provided testing in the community.

“The question is then, how many more sites do we need, is one more site enough, or two more sites enough,” Dr. McCullers said. “We’ve kind of settled on, we’re going to open up probably two more sites, maybe three, that we are going to staff maybe a couple of times a week, so we can rotate and have one to two sites open around the city.

“That way, we’re covering more, but we’re not concentrating all in one place and we’re not deploying a huge amount of resources if there isn’t demand for it.”


Coming next week: “New Normal” virtual summit

On Tuesday, April 28, Shelby County business leaders will convene online for a series of discussions about how to conduct business in the shadow of COVID-19.

The summit takes place between 9 a.m. and noon and includes four “micro conferences” to provide industry-specific information for the government sector, large employers, hospitality and restaurant businesses, and small business owners.

“As conversations shift to determine how we re-open businesses over the next several weeks and months, we want to make sure that our local community can do so safely,” says Danielle Inez, Shelby County Mayor’s Office chief of staff and co-organizer of the summit. “We received over 200 registrations within the first two hours of announcing the New Normal Virtual Summit, so I believe our local employers want to make sure we’re working collaboratively to get this right.”

“This has been a tough time for everyone,” says Paul Morris, owner of Jack Morris Auto Glass and a presenter during the Small Business Micro Conference. “Our employees are looking to us for guidance and reassurance that we’re going to get through this. As business owners, we’re working swiftly to secure funding and health recommendations so that we can reduce lay-offs and ensure that workers can safely provide for their families.”

Greater Memphis Chamber CEO Beverly Robertson says, “We have over 7,500 professional members, many of whom have participated in one of a myriad of virtual workshops and conference calls that we’ve hosted in light of COVID-19. We’re in constant communication with local, state, and federal partners about what may best serve the needs of Memphis and Shelby County. We’re pleased to bring this information to the forefront during the New Normal Virtual Summit.”

Bobby White, co-organizer of the summit and Chief of Public Policy for the Greater Memphis Chamber, announced the New Normal Virtual Summit during a COVID-19 press briefing hosted by Harris and the Shelby County Health Department.

Learn more about each micro conference and register for free at http://covid19.shelbycountytn.gov.


Today’s TSD music vibe:

 

COVID-19 claimed Terry Adam’s life; could not shake her faith

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Terry Adams (seated) with her daughter, Tina Shinault, and Ron Shinault, her son-in-law. (Courtesy photo)

“…It was Wednesday, early morning. I sat outside her room at the window in ICU. A wonderful nurse named Emily was there at my mother’s bedside. Emily was playing a song taken from Psalms 23 called ‘Safe in His Arms.’ Emily had the phone next to my mother’s (Terry Adams) ear as my Aunt Louise and I were saying our last words.  I perceived she was tired. I wanted my mother to know that I was there. Emily was holding her hand, and I said, ‘Mama, Emily is holding your hand for me.’ And just as my aunt and I finished saying my last our words, I watched my mother’s heart rate go down to zero. Mother had gone to be with the Lord, and she was completely healed.”

– Tina Shinault, daughter of Terry Adams

Terry Adams, 67, is counted among the Shelby County fatalities of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Like all of the coronavirus dead, she has a life story worth telling and a wealth of memories for loved ones to cherish.

“My mother attended Hamilton, all the way from elementary through junior high, and high school,” said Tina Shinault, a registered nurse working in hospice.

“After Hamilton, ‘Mother’ attended Tennessee Tech Vocational School for childcare. That’s the only work she has ever done and ever wanted to do.”

Of the seven children born to John Quincy Adams and Tennie Cleonia Holloway Adams, the youngest of three that survived to adulthood was Terry Adams.

“They had seven children, but there were four childhood deaths,” explained Adam’s sister, Louise Adams-Short. “I am the oldest, my sister, Mintie, was in the middle, and Terry was the youngest. Mintie passed away in 2013.”

Terry Adams (Courtesy photo)

Prior to contracting the novel coronavirus, Adams had experienced renal failure and was on dialysis.

“My mom called me Saturday while I was at work to let me know that she was sick to her stomach,” Shinault said. “She further told me she started feeling ‘tired’ on Friday, but she felt better when she laid down. …I gave her some instructions and told her to drink her protein shake to see how she would do. She was better when I got off work and I did not have to go over, as I was trying to social distance from my mom because I work in healthcare.

“She told me on Sunday she felt better, but on Monday evening she did not when I had gone by to check on her. She was able to drink her protein shake later that night.”

When Adams went to dialysis on Tuesday, the staff noticed that she was very quiet.

“That was out of character for her,” said her sister, Adams-Short. “She liked to talk a lot, and Terry was nosey. She was feisty and nosey. Terry wanted to know what was going on around her.”

Instead of the usual person that picked her up and dropped her off, Adams told dialysis staff she wanted her daughter, Tina, to pick her up. They called Tina, and she came right on.

Although there was no fever, Adams was shaking, weak and had a rasping cough that didn’t sound good to Shinault.

“Mother didn’t want to go to the ER, but I took her anyway to Baptist East. She had pneumonia brought on by complications from COVID-19.”

When she reached out at about 5 p.m. on Thursday to FaceTime with her mother, Shinault discovered her mother in respiratory distress. She called the nurse’s station to get someone there to help her mother. Her husband was with her on the call and the two of them read Scripture to Adams to help calm her.

That night, Adams underwent dialysis and her heart rate elevated. A nurse, Joey, got Shinault and her aunt on the phone in an effort to calm Adams and lower her heart rate. That effort failed and Adams was taken to cardiovascular ICU, early Friday morning.

Early Sunday morning, Adams’ heart stopped. Staff worked to get it started again and she was placed on the ventilator. On Monday night, Adams’ family found out from the doctor that her liver went into shock because of this.

Adams was able to Facetime with Shinault, her husband, her aunt, all her nieces, nephews and friends.

On Tuesday, a nurse placed the phone to Adams’ ear and Shinault played music from The Clark Sisters and others. It was a very pivotal time for Shinault because this was the time she felt peace, that it would not be long and that it was OK to release her mother. The next morning, one of the nurses, Emily, played “Safe in His Arms” for  Adams while Shinault and her aunt were on the phone.


“Because the Lord is my Shepherd,

I have everything I need.

“He lets me rest in the meadow’s grass

“And He leads me beside the quiet stream.

“He restores my failing health, and

“He helps me to do what honors Him the most,

“That’s why I’m safe in His arms…”


“Emily held her hand for me as I sat outside her room at the window, Shinault said.”

After Shinault and her aunt said last words, Adams died.

“There were a lot of nights and days spent talking with Mother on FaceTime. I appreciate all the wonderful nurses who made the FaceTiming possible.”

The doctors, nurses, respiratory, dialysis and all the hospital staff, Shinault said, were “so caring. They did everything they possibly could. Emily held mother’s hand in my stead as I spoke to Mother. Then, finally, it was time to let go. And thank God, she went in peace.”

Adams attended Holy Temple as a child. For many years, she was a member of Union Valley Baptist Church, serving as an usher and Sunday School teacher. Her last church home was A Worship Experience Christian Center, where she was a pulpit aide.

The wake for her was held last Thursday (April 16) at the Vance Avenue Chapel of R. S. Lewis and Sons Funeral Home. Observing social-distance requirements, only 10 people were allowed inside at a time.

Everyone was asked to wear a mask and no one was allowed to touch the body, in accordance to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention directives.

At noon the next day, a graveside service was streamed on Facebook Live.

 

#ACCESS901: The kids are alright

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Addison is finding a lot to like about homeschooling. (Courtesy photos)

It seems that during these Times of Corona that the kids are alright.

TSD #Access901 columnist Joy Doss. (Photo: Demarcus Bowser)

They seem to be coping better than adults for the most part, as well they should. They should have the luxury of childhood balanced with being informed. We should not task them with our anxiety and stress!

I’ll be honest. I thought my daughter, Addison, and I would butt heads every day. But that has not been the case – not like I thought anyway. The pre-teen blues have gone from deep, dark blue to more of a sky blue. We are managing. We have our separate spaces, but she actually wants to be around me more.

Go figure. I swear kids are a mystery.

Taking it to the source, I spoke to Addison and her friend Baili to gain some kid perspective.

Of course, you have to catch them in the mood. If you have to coax and cajole and pull info out inch-by-inch like a magician’s scarf, then just never mind. But I found a good space.

Both Addison and Baili are in sixth grade. Both normally have a pretty rigorous after-school activity schedule. So, are they in fact alright?

Addison likes homeschooling minus the momager taskmaster of course. (JD Note: She’ll live. This is what moms do!) “More of the quizzes and tests are open book. I like that part.”

While not the biggest fan of the distance learning model, Baili puts in the work. (Courtesy photo)

Baili, on the other hand, says she does not like the distance learning model at all. It seems like both schools got up to speed fairly quickly, with the girls carrying about the same workload as usual.

However, with Baili, one or two  of the teachers are not actively using Google Meet, which makes her feel a little uncertain. The class is getting the assignments without the attention or communication.

Meanwhile, Addison is feeling like there is too much communication, specifically referring to her daily 8 a.m. morning advisory/homeroom. She’s fine with the rest of the schedule.

Even with FaceTime (ALLLLL DAY!), both Addison and Baili miss physically seeing their friends. The isolation is setting in a little.

Just Dance with Mom probably isn’t the same. Both go on family walks. But they need their homegirls. Truth be told, so do the parents!

Speaking of which, can we talk about technology? Xfinity do better! The girls are getting kicked out their classes and contending with spotty connectivity. They both brought this up and feel frustrated.

I even bought the Xfi pods and they aren’t helping! Grrrr! Fortunately, the teachers are understanding.

What about more time with mom? Baili likes having more time “but when you want a break and want to go somewhere you can’t. You have nowhere to go but your room.” Um, SAME!

However, the million-dollar question is, how are they coping with all of this uncertainty?

Addison says she isn’t stressed or scared because she knows she’s staying safe. “I’m a  little worried but not as much because I’m not always out.”

I asked if she worries about mommy. She worries about my grocery runs, but knows that I am taking the proper precautions. I assured her that I do curbside pick-up whenever possible and, most importantly, we CANNOT PostMate food every day!

COVID hit a little closer to home for Baili, as her grandmother contracted a form of it. Naturally, it stoked her fears. Fortunately, her grandmother recovering and will be fine.  “I was scared at first after my grandma got it. Anyone can get it. Especially kids because we carry germs.”

Petri dishes I tell ya!  Now that we’ve integrated gloves and masks into our new normal, she feels safer.

Then there’s summer. Everyone’s plans are shot! What to do?! Addison and I are both disappointed because she was accepted to Alvin Ailey ballet summer intensive in New York.

She told me, “I’m really sad about summer camp. I wanted to go to Ailey so badly!”  We agreed that it sucks but safety is the priority, especially as New York is being hit the hardest.

Baili went to Ailey last summer but had plans to go to a sleep-away camp this year. “I don’t like it but If I’m safe, I can just find other stuff to do.”

They seem to be rolling with the punches!

Should they open the economy at the end of May?

Baili: “I don’t think they should. They’re saying the masks work but I feel like they aren’t 100 percent certain. Just because the numbers went down…I just feel like we’re not ready yet.”

Addison: “I think that it’s good but everybody shouldn’t think that it’s over. It’s not and we should still be cautious. You can still get the virus and they don’t have a vaccination for it.”

Welp, the kids are indeed alright. And they have spoken. Stay safe yall!