Pandemic fallout, housing relief and hard-to-resist dessert
The U.S. has hit 200,000 deaths related to COVID-19 — a number so immense I still can't fully wrap my mind around it.
The American South began covering coronavirus when the first presumptive case appeared in New Orleans, (our home base). Seemingly overnight, a spike catapulted a city known for revelry into devastation.
We wrote stories about the city's spike, and the disparities in vulnerable Black and immigrant communities across the South. The impact on Gulf Coast shrimpers, oyster farmers and those on small farms that supply fresh vegetables. We wrote about gig musicians in trouble, the chaos within ICE detention centers, the long-term impact on restaurants, families and how even in a time of mourning, where music could be a salve, the Jazz funeral was on pause.
We still have a long way to go in finding answers and relief.
The 'Get to know us' stories this week can be found within the words you just read. If something speaks to you, click the link/s and read more.
More in Southern news
WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? : New Orleans bar owners, without the support of dining services, are struggling and desperate for answers.
HOUSE OF TULIP HOPES TO BE A REFUGE : A group of advocates in New Orleans is working to create the city’s first home for transgender and gender non-confirming people who are experiencing homelessness. The group is finalizing the purchase of a multi-unit home that will provide living space for up to 12 people at a time. Unlike some shelters in the area, the home won’t have specific requirements or restrictions that would limit who could access living space. Read more about the effort here.
Ancient Creatures and a Covid-19 vaccine
These creatures have fluorescent blue blood that provides a line of defense against toxins. For 40 years, humans have harnessed that same power to help keep us safe. Now, the horseshoe crab is poised to assume a vital role in a drug the whole world awaits — a COVID-19 vaccine. Read more here.
SAY HER NAME : 26-year-old Breonna Taylor was fatally shot by police in her Louisville home on March 13. A Jefferson County grand jury has indicted one of three police officers involved. But there is more to the story. You can keep up with the latest news on the Breonna Taylor (decision and reaction) by visiting our partners at Louisville Courier.
Down with Dixie?
As the U.S. began grappling with a racial reckoning, the music industry took notice. Musicians started to use their platform to speak out about justice. Dolly Parton had a lot to say here. Other musicians began to distance themselves from name affiliations that could suggest they opposed change. The word "Dixie" (Confederate-era linked and racially charged for some) came under scrutiny.
The Dixie Chicks changed their name to simply, The Chicks.
Now, Dixie Beer, a brand out of New Orleans, is asking for help selecting a new name. The company launched a web page where you can suggest a new one. More here.
Meanwhile, the University of Southern Mississippi is considering a name change of its 'Dixie Darlings' dance team. The feelings are mixed.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg remembered
- In Memphis, Tenn., people gathered outside the Judge D’Army Bailey Courthouse to honor the legacy of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Ginsburg, 87, died Sept.18. RBG fought for gender equality throughout her law career.
Always room for dessert
If you're still in the mood for baking, we suggest this Italian Cream Cake recipe. It's an excerpt from "Recipes and Remembrances of Fair Dillard," a cookbook that features new and old recipes from the historically black college Dillard in New Orleans.
Also, I know it’s officially fall and maybe you’re all about the warmth of pumpkin-spiced everything. But just in case you’re looking to extend summer with a beverage chilled with ice, here's a how-to for a signature New Orleans cocktail, the sazerac.
What's the South talking about?
Don't miss our top reads. Every Thursday we share stories from our coverage area, which includes: Georgia, Alabama, the Carolinas, Tennessee, Mississippi and Louisiana. Click here!
We promise, this will warm your heart
Loida Guillén Strong worked toward her doctorate degree in nursing at the University of Central Florida for three years in secret to surprise her mom on graduation day. The reaction is golden.
Thank you reading!
Have a thought? I would love to hear from you at: theamericansouth@gannett.com
Ashley Hopkinson
Editor, The American South