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Giving Back and Making a Difference

Time to Put Pension Politics Aside

By Mayor Sylvester Turner City Council members recently joined in a bi-partisan vote of support for a historic package of pension reforms.

PAGE 10

PAGES 20-21

The GHBC Honors Successful African-American Businesses and Entrepreneurs

Celebrating the Dream Through Scholarship By d-mars.com News Provider The North Houston Frontiers Club, Inc. (North Houston Frontiers) is one of the most wellrespected organizations in Houston, honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., while providing scholarships for deserving minority students in our community.

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PAGES 4-5

Celebrating Hiram H. Smith

By d-mars.com News Provider Hiram H. Smith is Founder and CEO of HiramStyle, Inc.

PAGE 30

Political Powerhouses Visit Texas Southern University I am a businessman. This is what I do each and every day. I love it. I love coming to work. I never have a bad day.

— Booker T. Washington

TSUTexans2016.indd 1

7/26/2016 2:29:58 PM

November 2016 3

Journal Behind The

Publisher’s Message

MR. D-MARS

SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr.

VICE PRESIDENT

“Giving Back and Making a Difference” is the theme for this issue of the d-mars.com Business Journal. This is the season of giving, but we should not forget to give beyond this season. It’s important to give back and make a difference, especially with your business. Your business can make great contributions to the community. Don’t forget to serve the community that keeps your business prosperous. Happy Thanksgiving!

Kim Floyd

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Dawn Paul

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES C.J. Johnson C.T. Foster Tiffany Black

This month’s journal shines the spotlight on the Greater Houston Black Chamber (GHBC) and their annual Pinnacle Awards. For the past 22 years, the GHBC has hosted the Pinnacle Awards honoring excellence, tenacity and dedication of entrepreneurial spirit in the African-American business community. The award ceremony was created to recognize outstanding African-American businesses.

As always, thank you for your continued support of d-mars.com. When you support us, you are supporting more than just our company; you are supporting the communities in which we live and work. Working together, we can succeed in making positive things happen.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Contents

L.C. Poullard Grady Carter Tony Gaines

MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes

LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNER Angel Rosa

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Charlette Washington

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Tashara Callaway

DISTRIBUTION

Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Comerica Bank Cynthia Nevels Texas Southern University William H. Harrison The Greater Houston Black Chamber Freddie Allen, NNPA Mayor Sylvester Turner d-mars.com News Provider

Texas Southern University News...............................................................................................................................................................4-5 Comerica Bank News........................................................................................................................................................................................ 6 Economic Development 3.0............................................................................................................................................................................. 8 Time to Put Pension Politics Aside..............................................................................................................................................................10 Plugging a Leak: Retirement Savings.........................................................................................................................................................10 Parents! What’s the Plan for Your Student After High School?........................................................................................................... 12 Make That Money.............................................................................................................................................................................................. 12 Nothing Changes If Nothing Changes........................................................................................................................................................ 14 Wireless Home Phone Devices......................................................................................................................................................................15 Celebrating the Dream Through Scholarship............................................................................................................................................16 NNPA News.........................................................................................................................................................................................................18 Greater Houston Black Chamber 2016 Pinnacle Awards................................................................................................................. 20-21 Are You a Savvy Donor?................................................................................................................................................................................. 22 Is Your Pension Protected?........................................................................................................................................................................... 22 The Ever-Growing Gap.................................................................................................................................................................................... 23 UNCF News........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 24 Do You Really Need a Real Estate Agent?................................................................................................................................................. 24 Millennials & Money........................................................................................................................................................................................26 Nielsen 2016 Report.........................................................................................................................................................................................28 Celebrating 10 Years of Style Genius: Hiram H. Smith...........................................................................................................................30 Trends In Ethnic Diversity............................................................................................................................................................................. 34

MR. D-MARS Tip of the Month “The hardest work in the world is being out of work.”

- Whitney Young, Jr.

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

4  November 2016

Texas Southern University News

Civil Rights Icon Rep. John Lewis Visits TSU By d-mars.com News Provider

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he Honorable John Lewis (DGA), congressman and Civil Rights Movement icon, visited Texas Southern University recently as a special guest of Congresswoman Shelia Jackson Lee (D-TX). The powerful duo participated in student forums and a voter-registration rally.

Rep. Rep.John JohnLewis: Lewis:Dedicated Dedicated to toBuilding Buildingthe theBeloved Beloved Community CommunityininAmerica America Often called "one of the most courageous persons the Civil Rights Movement ever produced," John Lewis has dedicated his life to protecting human rights, securing civil liberties, and building what he calls "The Beloved Community� in America. His dedication to the highest ethical standards and moral principles has won him the admiration of many of his colleagues on both sides of the aisle in the United States Congress.

While still a young man, John Lewis became a nationally recognized leader.

By 1963, he was dubbed one of the Big Six leaders of the Civil Rights Move-

ment. At the age of 23, he was an architect of and a keynote speaker at the historic March on Washington in August 1963.

Despite more than 40 arrests, physical attacks and serious injuries, John Lewis remained a devoted advocate of the philosophy of nonviolence. After leaving SNCC in 1966, he continued his commitment to the Civil Rights Movement as Associate Director of the Field Foundation and his participation in the Southern Regional Council's voter registration programs. Lewis went on to become the Director of the Voter Education Project (VEP). Under his leadership, the VEP transformed

the nation's political climate by adding nearly four million minorities to the voter rolls.

In 1977, John Lewis was appointed

by President Jimmy Carter to direct more than 250,000 volunteers of ACTION, the federal volunteer agency.

In 1981, he was elected to the Atlanta City Council. While serving on the Council, he was an advocate for ethics in government and neighborhood preservation. He was elected to Congress in November 1986 and has served as U.S. Representative of Georgia's Fifth Congressional District since then. He is Senior Chief Deputy Whip for the Democratic Party in leadership in the House, a member of the House Ways & Means Committee, a member of its Subcommittee on Income Security and Family Support, and Ranking Member of its Subcommittee on Oversight.

John Lewis has been awarded over 50 honorary degrees from prestigious colleges and universities throughout the United States, including Harvard University, Brown University and Princeton University. For more on Rep. John Lewis, please visit www.johnlewis. house.gov.

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November 2016 5

Texas Southern University News Congresswoman Sheila Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Jackson Lee: to Dedicated to Lee: Dedicated Upholding Upholding the Constitutional the Constitutional Rights of All Rights of All People People Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee is an inf luential and forceful voice in Washington. She is serving her tenth term (20 years) as a member of the United States House of Representatives. She represents the 18th Congressional District of Texas, centered in Houston, which is the energy capital of the world. Considered by many as the “Voice of Reason,” she is dedicated to upholding the Constitutional rights of all people.

During Congresswoman Jackson Lee’s tenure in Congress she has served on various Committees including the Committee on Foreign Affairs, Homeland Security, and Judiciary. She also led the fight for

Hate Crimes Prevention Act, played a significant role in the renewal and reauthorization of the Voting Rights Act, and contributed an amendment to the NASA reauthorization bill that will ensure equal access for minority and economically disadvantaged students to NASA’s education programs.

For more on Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, please visit www. jacksonlee.house.gov.

Rep. John Lewis & Rep. John Lewis &Sheila Congresswoman Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee: Making an Jackson Lee: Making an Impact at Texas Southern Impact at Texas Southern University University Reps. Lewis and Jackson Lee led a Congressional Breakfast Policy Discussion attended by local religious leaders and a Gun Control Forum, which included members of Moms Demand Action, an organization that advocates for gun safety and reform.

TSU students participated in a Get Out the Vote rally that stressed the importance of young people getting involved in the democratic process.

Congressman Lewis underscored his experiences as a young Freedom Fighter, battling for equal rights during the Civil Rights Movement.

“The vote is precious,” Rep. Lewis said at the rally. “The vote controls everything we do here in America and we’ve got to vote in November like we never ever voted before. Get your classmates, your roommates, your friends and all of your relatives to go out and vote.”

The rally was organized by TSU’s Democratic Club. University student government representatives spoke at the event, including SGA President Justin Lee and Student Regent Tramauni Brock.

The public discussion on gun legislation was held in the University’s Walter J. McCoy Auditorium before a packed audience of students, professors, pastors and local civic leaders.

Local and statewide elected officials were also in attendance.

About Texas Southern University

passage of the Fair Sentencing Act and this year garnered unanimous support to amend the 2012 Defense Authorization Bill that creates a day of honor for the return of our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. She has authored several immigration bills, such as H.R. 750, the "Save America Comprehensive Immigration Act," which sets forth a comprehensive and humane solution to the immigration problem, introduced legislation to enhance federal enforcement of hate crimes with H.R. 254, the David Ray

TSU offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs and concentrations – bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees – organized into 10 colleges and schools on a 150-acre campus nestled in the heart of Houston’s historic Third Ward. The University’s enrollment has a population of 8,000 undergraduate and graduate-school academic candidates. TSU has been a distinguished educational pioneer since 1927, and it has become one of the most diverse and respected institutions in Texas. TSU has positioned itself as a proactive leader in educating underserved students and many who are the first in their family to attend college. For more about TSU, please visit www.tsu.edu.

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

6 November 2016

Comerica Bank Donated 3,000 Meals To The Houston Food Bank, Teaching Money Skills To Pugh Elementary Students

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omerica Bank recently donated approximately 3,000 meals to the Houston Food Bank to feed hungry Houstonians as part of its “Harvesting Meals & Money Skills” event held with 25 fourth- and fifth-grade students from Pugh Elementary School.

Comerica’s Lockwood Banking Center hosted the Pugh students who also “harvested” money skills by participating in a friendly financial literacy competition. The contest was designed to teach important financial literacy skills, including financial goals, budgeting, saving and credit. The winning class was awarded a pizza party that was held at the school.

“Because this is the harvest season, we think it is important to share bounty by supporting those in the community who often must go without proper meals. We’re pleased that Pugh Elementary students could participate with us in this meaningful event,” said Daphne Mcilveen, assistant banking center manager at Comerica’s Lockwood Banking Center.

“In addition, we invited students to join us at our banking center to see first hand how a bank operates and to learn some basic financial literacy skills. Children are never too young to be taught money skills that will aid them in school and later on in life,” Mcilveen added.

About Comerica Bank Comerica Incorporated (NYSE: CMA) is a financial services company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, and strategically aligned by three business segments: The Business Bank, The Retail Bank, and Wealth Management.

Comerica focuses on relationships, and helping people and businesses be successful. In addition to Texas, Comerica Bank locations can be found in Arizona, California, Florida and Michigan, with select businesses operating in several other states, as well as in Canada and Mexico. To find Comerica on Facebook, please visit www.facebook.com/ ComericaCares. Follow Comerica on Twitter at @ComericaCares and follow Comerica Chief Economist Robert Dye on Twitter at @Comerica_Econ.

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November 2016 7 CBP-6100-07 CRE Ad-MM.pdf

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Let’s grow, right now.

When it comes to business, timing is everything.

And, with historically low rates, there’s never been a more opportunistic time to expand your business with a commercial real estate loan from Comerica. As the leading bank for business*, we’ve been financing business expansion for nearly 150 years. Whether you need to build or purchase, expand or refinance, it’s the right time. Are you ready?

Call 800.705.2387, stop by a Comerica banking center or visit comerica.com/cre.

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MEMBER FDIC. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY LENDER. Comerica Bank NMLS ID: 480990 *Comerica ranks first nationally among the top 25 U.S. financial holding companies, based on commercial and industrial loans outstanding as a percentage of assets.

Data provided by SNL Financial, June 2015.

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RAISE YOUR EXPECTATIONS.

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8 November 2016

Economic Development 3.0: Making Money, People and Power Work for Local Small Businesses

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By Cynthia Nevels

Contributing Writer

rowdfunding will change the way innovation, entrepreneurship and jobs will be created in local communities in the future. What do you think of when you see a vacant commercial building in a middle class neighborhood?

Do you say to yourself, “I could start my own business there if I had the capital,” or “a Whole Foods should open here and bring new jobs?”

Have you ever asked yourself how enterprises like Whole Foods, Toyota, Jamba Juice, or Amazon.com select cities to plant their seeds to grow and the impact that decision has on local communities?

You can thank your powerful local economic development agents and their collaborative partners for the harvest in fast growing cities throughout North Texas.

Since the establishment of economic development corporations (EDCs) by legislatures over 30 years ago, city-level EDCs in Texas have grown in popularity and use by Texas cities to create jobs, promote innovation, improve the quality of life and increase the tax base.

Economic development can be defined as concerted efforts of municipal leaders, economic development agents, visitor bureaus, politicians and financial institutions collaborating to improve the economic well-being and quality of life for a community by creating and/or retaining jobs and supporting or growing incomes and the tax base.

Large enterprises, albeit vital to economic capacity building in some instances, are not the sole engine that drives longer-term growth. Longer-term growth relies on local innovation, local entrepreneurship, and local labor. Access to capital is the fuel that ignites this powerful ecosystem.

According to a report shared by the Texas Economic Development Council, a nonprofit trade association, more than 558 Texas cities levy an Economic Development Sales Tax and collectively bring in more than $376 million in tax revenues annually and is dispersed to local economic development corporations.

Historically, economic development agents direct considerable capital investment and incentives into the recruitment and development of large enterprises versus local small businesses. Capital investment and technical assistance for microbusinesses are left to communitybased organizations and colleges.

However, in September 2015, House Bill 1629 was passed in an effort to level the playing field and redirect investment into local small businesses from local folks. House Bill 1629 was authored by Dallas Representative Eric Johnson [D], Rep. Tan Parker [R], Rep. Jason Isaac [R], Rep. Rafael Anchia [D], and sponsored by Senator Royce West [D]. The new law puts the power of local economic capacity building into the hands of the people.

HB 1629 gives Texas EDCs, chambers of commerce, small business development centers, nonprofit organizations and the Texas Veterans Commission the ability to allow small businesses in their service areas to raise capital via equity crowdfunding online. Equity crowdfunding is a way for local Texas residents or investors to buy equity stakes in local small businesses online.

Economic development agents and

their collaborative partners can now launch equity crowdfunding portals to help local small businesses raise capital to fill the access to capital gap or provide advisory services to help entrepreneurs develop fundraising strategies to fuel job growth and business development in local communities.

This new powerful shift in direction for economic development agents is expected to change the value proposition chambers of commerce, EDCs, community development corporations and community development financial institutions (CDFIs) could offer to small businesses in their service areas.

Each year millions of dollars in tax revenue filter into local economic development corporations and powerful leaders work to bring big businesses to Texas.

Just think what could happen to vacant real estate and the unemployment numbers in underserved middle and low income communities for those agents who choose to use this new law.

Could longer term growth be expected if a percentage of that tax revenue was redirected into helping local small businesses acquire much needed capital using financial technologies?

Could economic development cor-

porations and chambers of commerce enhance their unique value proposition when it comes to creating new and viable small businesses, creating new jobs and increasing the income levels and tax base in North Texas cities?

The groundwork has been done to create a fertile environment for planting seeds of change in Dallas/Fort Worth and across the state of Texas.

Follow Cynthia on social media: Twitter @cynthianevels Facebook @ meetcynthianevels LinkedIn @cynthianevels.

On Dec. 6, Cynthia Nevels will be the featured speaker on Comerica Bank, DCCCD 10,000 Small Businesses, ThinkCrowdFund.com and Computershare’s crowdfunding web series. The partners will host a discussion on “Crowdfunding for Economic Development.” Cynthia will share her advice with economic development agents, share her vision for crowdfunding education, and answer questions about leveraging crowdfunding for economic capacity building in local communities while promoting her theory on Economic Development 3.0.

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November 2016  9

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

10 November 2016

Time to Put Pension Politics Aside

By Mayor Sylvester Turner Contributing Writer

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ity Council members recently joined in a bi-partisan vote of support for a historic package of pension reforms. With this vote, Houston is on the verge of accomplishing what few other cities have done – solving its multi-billion dollar pension challenges permanently and without requiring a tax hike. My office, City Council, the employee pension systems, the business community, the Arnold Foundation, The Kinder Institute and others who have been pushing for a solution for years, have all reached the same conclusion – this plan fixes what needs fixing. This is the first time ever that all concerned parties have been on the same page and moving forward in unison. It is one big family working together for the betterment of Houston and its citizens.

We are talking about eliminating nearly $8 billion of unfunded pension debt that is draining the City’s bank account, contributing to a decline in our credit rating and higher borrowing costs and hindering our ability to pay for the services our citizens not only need, but deserve from their City government. This plan will provide the

City with structural budget balance moving forward. It provides employees with secure and stable retirements and provides taxpayers with a plan they can afford. We are taking an absolutely unsustainable financial situation and making it sustainable.

A small minority wants to play politics with this issue. They say the numbers won’t work but yet provide nothing to prove that claim. They say we are moving too fast but fail to elaborate why. They say the plan has been crafted in secret while ignoring the vast amount of news coverage, social media discussion and position papers that have been

widely distributed. Not one person has come forward with an alternative that reforms the City’s pension system, reduces costs now and in the future, has broad-based support and does not require a tax rate hike.

Of course, the impact on taxpayers is a big concern, but it is insensitive to not also be concerned about the impact on our police officers, firefighters and municipal workers. They have put concessions on the table that have a real impact on their futures. In return for what they are giving up, taxpayers will have budget certainty. They deserve a big thank you for coming to the table.

Like a fixed rate mortgage payment plan, our $7.8 billion pension debt will be eliminated in 30 years. We will immediately cut the cost of employee benefits by $2.5 billion. If future pension costs begin to exceed pre-agreed limits, there is a mechanism to force additional benefits changes. This cost management component is probably the most important piece of these pension reforms because it will prevent us from ever having to deal with this situation again. We will base our market performance predictions on a more conservative seven percent rate of return, we will fully fund each pension system every year and the pension systems will be required to share information so we are better able to gauge cost trends.

Houston built the world’s largest inland port, Houston put a man on the moon and Houston leads the world when it comes to medical breakthroughs. We can also be a model for all the other cities wrestling with pension challenges. Nothing in this plan increases our debt burden, increases our budget or increases the tax rate. We have come farther than anyone on this issue and as we now head to the Texas Legislature for the final step of enacting our local plan into law, it is time to put the politics aside and do what is best for the financial future of this great city, its taxpayers and its municipal employees.

Plugging a Leak: Retirement Savings By d-mars.com News Provider

W

ould you plug a leak if it cost $6 billion a year?

That's the amount of "leakage" or retirement savings lost every year from retirement savers defaulting on their loans from 401(k) plans, according to a 2014 report by the Pension Research Council (PRC), Borrowing from the Future: 401(k) Plans and Loan Defaults. Draining retirement savings for other purposes ultimately makes is harder to prepare for retirement.

But loans and withdrawals from 401(k) plans are sometimes the only options available to workers who are faced with unexpected financial emergencies.

Bankrate.com's 2016 Financial Security Index finds that 29 percent of Americans have no savings to address emergencies.

But other options are increasingly becoming available.

"Employers are focusing more on improving their employees' financial wellness by making available educational programs and introducing financial products that can help workers protect their savings," says Tom Foster, spokesperson for workplace solutions at Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co. (MassMutual). "It's important to make

sure you're aware of all of the benefits your employer makes available and how they can help you manage your personal finances."

Benefits are being introduced at the workplace to help employees address financial emergencies such as a critical illnesses, disabilities, accidents, big car repair bills or other misfortunes without cracking open their retirement savings: • Pre-approved emergency loans: Some programs allow employees to obtain credit online without having to fill out forms or visit a bank. The most helpful programs prequalify employees for credit based on their employment and their ability to repay. Often, employees can repay the loans through payroll deduction. The rates on such loans can be as low as 6 percent.

• Critical illness coverage: Medical treatment and other expenses related to a serious illness can quickly run into several thousands of dollars, especially with the growing prevalence of high-deductible health care coverage. Critical illness policies provide cash for insureds to pay for a myriad of expenses, from medical deductibles and co-pays to pharmaceuticals and comfort-related costs if an employee or a family member suffers a serious illness.

• Accident insurance: Few emergencies can derail personal finances more quickly than an injury caused by an ac-

cident, especially for those who live paycheck to paycheck. More than 40 million injuries are treated by emergency rooms every year, according to the 2014 FastStats report on Emergency Department Visits by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. Policies typically pay cash in a lumpsum to cover anything from medical insurance deductibles and co-pays, down time from work and other unanticipated expenses.

• Disability protection: Many people can't make ends meet for more than a few weeks without a paycheck.

A disabling accident or illness can easily knock someone out of work for weeks or even months.

Group disability policies are available to cover short-term disabilities that last as long as six months or long-term disabilities that can take years or even become permanent. Many workers should consider securing a policy that protects at least 50 percent of their paycheck and buy additional coverage of up to 60 percent or 70 percent, if available.

Many employers make these benefits available on a voluntary basis, meaning employees pay the premiums at rela-

tively low group rates.

"Taken together or individually, these protection benefits can help shield you against financial misfortunes and give you an alternative to tapping your retirement savings," Foster said. "Then, as your financial situation improves, you can gradually boost your personal and retirement savings to enhance your financial wellness." – BPT

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November 2016  11

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

12 November 2016

Parents! What’s the Plan for Your Student After High School?

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By d-mars.com News Provider

here was a time when a college degree was considered the surest path to financial security, a home and The American Dream. But today, when you talk about a university education, you’re just as likely to hear about student debt, dropouts and low wages.

Find the right fit.

What happened?

Start with the glut of college graduates.

There are more four-year degree holders in this country than ever before, and they frequently are underemployed or working in jobs outside of their chosen field.

Meanwhile, many carry student-loan debt they can’t repay –assuming they graduate at all. Currently, approximately 40 percent of students starting four-year colleges and 60-70 percent of students starting two-year colleges do not graduate, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

“In the new economy, it is no longer sufficient for a student to simply get a four-year degree and assume a job will follow,” says Doug Young, economic analyst and author of "Preparing our Students for Career Success - What Parents Should Know. " Young’s research, detailed in the new report, demonstrates how parents can help students find the best fit for career

Make That Money By d-mars.com News Provider

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et’s face it, not everyone has a few million dollars just laying around the house for a rainy day. Though you may be saving your coins the best you can to start your business, you may still need some extra income to help with expenses. We have all heard the phrase, “You have to do what you have to do, to get where you want to be.” Don’t get discouraged on your way to your entrepreneurial dreams. The road will not be easy, but in the end, it will definitely be worth it.

You may not want to take on a second full or part-time weekend job. That’s okay.

Your 9 to 5 job may be all you can juggle while putting your plan into action to be an entrepreneur. Your weekends should not require you to be on the 9 to 5 grind as well, as you need flexibility.

Are you out of options on how to bring in additional funds? No worries. Below are other ways to help you make that money, helping to bring in extra income to fund your dream.

Freelance Freelancing is the next best thing to being paid more for your full-time work, because professional work always pays more than unskilled. To find opportunities, let former colleagues or other person-

the nation’s leading postsecondary educator of transportation service technicians.

success by following an ‘occupation-driven’ model.

“Today parents need to point students toward education based on the career outcomes they seek, rather than encouraging all kids to go to college regardless of outcome or interest,” says Young.

View “Preparing our Students for Career Success - What Parents Should Know" here: www.uti.edu/prepare4future.

Talk to your student. What are their passions and interests? How do they learn best? Explore a range of occupations that might best fit your particular student, their learning style and interests. Start early, taking into account your student’s soft skills and make time to explore various career options.

Calculate earnings vs. cost.

Compare projected earnings for chosen career paths, along with costs of education and graduation rates at possible schools to determine which career path and necessary training will generate a positive return over the long term.

Explore industry-aligned technical training. Nearly two-thirds of the available jobs in our country require more training than high school, but less than a four-year degree. Many of these so-called “blue collar” careers are in high demand, pay well and are less vulnerable to threats

Gain experience.

such as automation.

Help your student find ways to try out different career opportunities and gain work experience early. Explore career technical-education courses in high school, including internships and job shadowing opportunities, as well as organizations such as SkillsUSA.

Project future job availability.

Employer focused training.

Explore careers most likely to need skilled workers that can’t be replaced by overseas workers or automated by computers.

Labor industry experts predict this category includes numerous jobs for people in the skilled trades and repair including plumbers, electricians, and automotive technicians, as well as customer-service representatives and clerks.

In the transportation industry alone, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that by 2024 there will be 1.2 million jobs in the automotive, diesel, motorcycle and marine industries. The transportation service industry has become highly technical, requiring training beyond high school.

“There are simply not enough qualified technicians to fill the industry need,” says Jerry Rutter, vice president of Industry and Employment Solutions at Universal Technical Institute (UTI) (www.uti.edu),

Choose an education program that equips graduates with the skills they’ll need in their chosen career and partners with industry and employers to ensure success. Research what percentage of students drop out, as well as the employment figures for those who graduate. This will be a great indicator of the quality of the school and employer demand for its graduates.

Following a career-focused model doesn’t exclude the possibility of a fouryear college being the right option for many career paths. Taking a career-focused approach and exploring all postsecondary education options simply opens doors to other possibilities, which may be a better fit for your student, putting them on the path to career success.

View “Preparing our Students for Career Success - What Parents Should Know" here: www.uti.edu/prepare4future. – BPT

al connections know that you’re available for freelance gigs.

Become a driver

Blog

If you’ve got wheels, you can earn extra money shuttling through Uber and Lyft.

If you have an area of expertise, you can create a website with ads and affiliate links, like blogger J. Money did (boosting his net worth $400,000 in 7 years) and as Smart Passive Income guru Pat Flynn, who has earned millions blogging.

Coach If you have enough experience in your field to coach others with their careers, then create a website — or, if you have one, add a section describing what you’d offer as a coach. Advertise your services in industry forums and give new clients a discount or other incentives to refer you.

Tutor Whether for high school students or adults, you can monetize your expertise by teaching people with less experience or knowledge than you in that subject area.

You can work with an established group like Kaplan for, say, SAT tutoring, or you could try hanging out your own shingle and making your services known either to students, parents and schools in your community. If you are targeting adults, you can create your own website or list your services with adult tutoring companies.

Teach an online course If you have an area of expertise, instruct a course through a site like Udemy

Wash cars Even if you don’t have wheels yourself, you can spiff up those of your family, friends and neighbors. or Skillshare.

Temp Many offices need temporary workers, so old-school companies like Kelly Services do still exist and list such opportunities. Indeed.com aggregates listings by location. Do an Internet search to find local listings.

Cash in on your craftsy side Do you knit or make jewelry or create letterpress items? Sell your wares on Etsy, Cargoh, Craft Foxes and other such sites.

Capitalize on your inner chef If your cooking skills regularly impress family and friends, get paid to create memorable meals for clients with KitchenSurfing.

Get paid to run errands If you’re handy and generally available to run errands, sign up with TaskRabbit or Zaarly, or just put a notice up on Craigslist to get groceries for time-crunched people or do general handy person tasks.

Walk dogs If you have a flexible schedule and a passion for pets, ask friends, family or neighbors if they might need a dog walker. You can also post your services on dog walking sites.

Cater waiter Try Waiters to Cater or find a local company offering cater waiters, and sign up for opportunities.

Clean homes Use a service to find housecleaning opportunities.

Mow lawns, rake leaves or shovel snow Again, ask friends, family and neighbors if they’d like to hire you for these services.

Make that money!

Sources www.moneytalksnews.com www.forbes.com

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

November 2016  13

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

14 November 2016

Nothing Changes If Nothing Changes – Why It’s Time for A Change

By William H. Harrison

B

Contributing Writer

ecause people are creatures of habit, it generally takes a life changing event for us to change. One unfavorable prognosis from the doctor and we quickly change our diet. If your business receives numerous complaints regarding poor customer service, you suddenly mandate new employee training. How much time could we save if we were able to identify what needs to be changed before an outside force made us change? This month’s article will empower you to recognize, make and measure change.

Recognizing the Need for Change – Successful leaders are adept at recognizing when their company or strategy needs to change. Jack Welch, former CEO of GE, said it best, “You have to change, preferably before you have to."

There are a few classic signs that indicate you need to institute change. Low morale or a lack of motivation throughout your organization is one clue. When everything seems business as usual, that’s the perfect time to change it up. Missed goals or slow progress toward your goals should prompt you to change. Recognizing the need for change before your team, employees or customers do is vital.

Making the Change – Correctly choosing what to change in your company is the defining moment of any successful change endeavor. Start with

yourself first. Is your leadership style getting the job done? What areas do you need to improve in? Next, observe your company culture. Have you created a culture of excellence or one of mediocrity? Do you have a cohesive team or a group of individual performers? Finally review your current strategy to investigate if it fits the current business environment. This may require you to return to the drawing board and come up with a new approach to jumpstart your business.

Measuring the Change – Without a

measurement system in place, it’s next to impossible to know if your change initiative is effective. Also its important to remember that change happens in increments. There is a chance that your efforts will pay off immediately, yet the challenging change targets may require additional time. Resistance will come from those inside your organization.

This is to be expected as no one enjoys change. Your customers will need time adjusting also. Remember that your level of commitment will determine how much gets changed. Be prepared to answer all the tough questions that are going to come your way. Everyone will inquire how the change impacts them and how the changes are going to be accomplished. Ensure you have the answers to these and other questions that will come your way.

As a business leader, it’s your job to manage change in your organization. It all starts with recognizing the need for change and making it happen.

Will Harrison is Principal Consultant at West Arlington Consulting Group. West Arlington focuses on helping business owners and managers improve the customer experience. You can contact Will at info@westarlingtonconsultgroup.com.

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November 2016  15

Wireless Home Phone Devices By d-mars.com News Provider

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t seems more and more of us are "cutting the cord" these days, moving away from hard-wired connections to cable TV, internet service and more. The freedom to go wireless offers options that we couldn't have imagined just five or 10 years ago - you can stream movies on your phone while sitting in the backyard, or do a Google search as you wait in line at the grocery store.

The last bastion of hard-wired service, the good old home telephone, is undergoing this transformation as well. Cellular providers now offer devices that let you turn your traditional home phone into a line on your cellular account. You keep your home phone number, and even continue using your existing home telephone. But you're no longer required to stay tethered to phone jacks - nor do you have to keep your home phone at home.

Small device, simple setup Wireless home phone service is offered under various names - usually Wireless Home Phone or Home Phone Connect.

It allows a regular wired telephone to connect to cellular networks as if it were a mobile phone.

Connections are made via a small device you can place almost anywhere in your home. It's about the size of a wireless router, and contains the necessary electronics to provide voice-only telephone service to your phone from one or two jacks on the back of the unit.

It also has a small radio antenna and a transceiver for the wireless side of the connection.

The only plug-ins required are your phone (or its charging base) into one of the rear jacks, and a power cord. Most wireless home phone devices also include LED indicator lights on the front to show signal strength and indicate waiting voicemail messages.

Savings on landline, long distance If you already have cellphone service, you can add wireless home phone to your account for the cost of purchasing the device (expect to pay around $50), plus the cost of adding a secondary line for the service, which can be as little as $10 per month.

With most carriers, you'll simply share the airtime minutes on your existing monthly cellular plan with your home phone line. Nationwide coverage is also a feature of most cellular calling plans, so in addition to your redundant landline service, you eliminate the need for a long distance carrier. There are even special rates just for seniors: for instance, Consumer Cellular, which specializes in service to users over 50 years of age, offers no-contract, post-paid plans at discounted rates to AARP members.

If you don't currently have cellular service, you can still convert your landline to mobile simply by ordering a wireless

home phone device, then signing up for a monthly service plan that covers the number of minutes you're likely to use each month.

Never miss a call anywhere you go Wireless home phone service redefines the meaning of "home." The device is completely portable, so your service is, too; you can make and receive calls anywhere you have access to a cellular signal and an electrical outlet. Set it up anywhere you want in your home - you're no longer restricted to locations near a wall jack.

Perhaps more significantly, you can take it with you to a second home, a hotel or even a campsite and still receive calls made to your home telephone number, if cellular reception and a power source are available. It also works well with home phones that have additional handsets.

By connecting the wireless home phone device to the base of your primary cordless phone, it becomes accessible to your other cordless extensions, giving you even more calling flexibility.

Making the cut Like any cord cutting measure, wireless home phone service isn't necessarily for everybody. Your telephone service becomes completely dependent on a cellular signal - if, for instance, the nearest cell tower experiences an outage, you'll be unable to make anything except emergency calls. There's also no data signal on the line, so wireless home phone devices can't be used with medical monitoring devices or fax machines.

But if you've been seeking a way to cut the costs of your landline service while also keeping your longtime home telephone number, it offers a practical and affordable solution. You save on monthly service, eliminate long distance charges, and the portability offers true modern luxury, especially for "snowbirds" or retirees who travel frequently.

It's a nice way to make yourself feel at home - wherever you go! – BPT

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16 November 2016

Celebrating the Dream Through Scholarship By d-mars.com News Provider

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he North Houston Frontiers Club, Inc. (North Houston Frontiers) is one of the most well-respected organizations in Houston, honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., while providing scholarships for deserving minority students in our community. Their efforts continue to make a positive impact and open doors for our future leaders to be successful and continue in the footsteps of Dr. King. North Houston Frontiers continues to providing much needed assistance for our young people in the Greater Houston area. They host events which contribute to their scholarship initiatives, and their upcoming 29th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Breakfast held on Monday, January 16, 2017, is one of those events.

The North Houston Frontiers is a non-profit, 501(c)(3), service organization, dedicated to providing educational and monetary assistance to talented, deserving students in the Greater Houston area. The North Houston Frontiers Club's membership is composed of committed African-American male and female volunteers, who are determined to give something back to the community. The club annually hosts the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Breakfast to support the

North Houston Frontiers' Minority Scholarship Program.

The North Houston Frontiers’ Scholarship Program since 1986, has selflessly awarded over one million dollars to deserving college bound minority high school seniors in Houston. Because of the generous financial contributions and support of the community, corporate sponsors, schools and members of the organization, the scholarship program continues to be a success, helping to make a difference in the lives of our young people.

The North Houston Frontiers changed its scholarship award program in 2014, from a 4 year award program over 4 years, to a single award for one year. The awards will be divided into two categories to serve the greatest number of students in the Harris County area. This allows them to meet the

growing need to help students who may not attend a 4 year college or university after high school graduation. The single award for 4 year schools will be $1,000.00. The single award for 2 year schools will be $500.00.

This year marks the twenty-ninth anniversary of the event and it is sure to be a special occasion. The Keynote Speaker will be Houston’s Mayor Sylvester Turner. During the breakfast, the prestigious Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major Award will be presented to Ricky Anderson, Attorney at Law. The Honorary Co-Chairs are Sonny and Jodie Lee Jiles, Houston Defenders Media Group.

The North Houston Frontiers invite you or your organization to join them in this necessary initiative as a sponsor to help further the goals and educational ideals of Dr. King. The need is great in

our community to provide educational opportunities for young and gifted individuals to reach the levels of success Dr. King dreamed of them achieving in this country. With your help, they can continue assisting Houston area youth and help them advance in their educational endeavors. The sponsorship levels: Underwriter ($55,000), Partnership ($10,000), Platinum ($5,500), Gold ($3,500), Silver ($2,500), or Supporter ($1,000).

The net proceeds from the breakfast are used to fund the scholarship program. The North Houston Frontiers has awarded over $1.1 million dollars in scholarships to date. For more information about the North Houston Frontiers Club, Inc., and the 29th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Breakfast held on January 16, 2017 at the George R. Brown Convention Center (1001 Avenida De Las Americas, Houston, TX 77010), please visit www.nhfrontiers.com.

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November 2016  17

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18 November 2016

NNPA & Howard University Team Up to Poll Black Voters

By Freddie Allen

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Managing Editor, NNPA Newswire

n a historic effort to measure the pulse of African American voters, the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) partnered with Howard University to conduct the first scientific poll focused on the Black community taken during the 2016 election cycle.

“The NNPA was pleased to join with one of the nation’s leading historically Black colleges and universities, Howard University in Washington, D.C., to conduct, analyze, and present timely and strategic findings that pertain to the political, economic, and social interests of Black Americans across the United States,” said Benjamin Chavis, the president and CEO of the NNPA. The NNPA represents more than 200 Black-owned media companies that reach an estimated 20 million readers every week.

“The Howard University/NNPA National Black Voter Poll is very important during this momentous season of political change,” said Chavis.

The 2016 Howard University/NNPA National Black Voters Poll covered a range of issues including racial inequality, criminal justice system, jobs and the economy, global trade, terrorism, education, immigration, and environmental pollution. The poll was conducted by landline telephone and more than 420 people, who self-identified as Black, completed the questionnaire.

Rubin Patterson, the chairman of the Department of Sociology and Criminology, said that the 2016 National Black Voter Poll is of huge importance, not only because it is a collaborative product of two major Black institutions — Howard University and the National Newspaper Publishers Association — but also because it is the first scientific poll of the Black community concerning the 2016 election season.

“As a result of this poll, candidates and those who will be successful in occupying the White House and controlling Congress will know the prioritized issues and nuanced concerns of the complex Black community,” said Rubin Patterson, the chairman of the Department of Sociology and Criminology. “We hope that these findings will shape their policy and legislative agendas starting next year.”

The 2016 National Black Voter Poll is of huge importance, not only because it is a collaborative product of two major Black institutions — Howard University and the National Newspaper Publishers Association — but also because it is the first scientific poll of the black community concerning the 2016 election season.

Howard University faculty and stu-

Rubin Patterson, the chairman of the Department of Sociology and Criminology, said that the 2016 is the first scientific poll of the Black community concerning the 2016 election season.

A Howard University student conducts an interview for the 2016 Howard University/NNPA National Black Voters Poll. dents from multiple departments were represented including Economics, Political Science, Sociology, and Communications, Culture, and Media Studies.

“This multi-disciplinary team has drawn on its expertise to develop a comprehensive polling instrument designed to assess the opinions of Black Americans on the presidential candidates and other important issues facing the Black

community and the nation,” said Terri Adams, the associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.

William E. Spriggs, the chief economist at the AFL-CIO and an economics professor at Howard University, said that the national poll will let people see the motivation of registered Black voters to vote and the motivations behind their

choice of candidates.

“Instead of hidden behind a mask of race as motivation, this survey will show how income, education, success in the job market, all act to motivate the Black vote,” said Spriggs.

Denise Rolark Barnes, the chairwoman of the NNPA, said that African Americans have a huge stake in this election and mainstream polls have often ignored their issues.

“This joint effort between Howard University and the NNPA shows just how much we care what African Americans think about the issues that will influence their voting choices on November 8,” said Rolark Barnes.

Rolark Barnes continued: “The Howard University faculty and students are to be commended for leading this historic and noteworthy effort. Their findings will show that Black voters will make a difference in the outcomes of this election in counties, cities and states where they live all across this country. It will show that Black voters matter and their votes do, too.”

According to an ABC News/Washington Post poll conducted in September, 93 percent of likely Black voters favored former Secretary Hillary Clinton in the presidential race; just three percent of likely Black voters favored the Republican presidential nominee, Donald Trump.

Chavis said that the HU-NNPA National Black Voter Poll is very important during this momentous season of political change.

Chavis continued: “The NNPA newspapers reach more than 20 million Black American readers every week and we know there is a hunger and thirst for the vital information and perspectives that the results of this poll will reveal.”

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November 2016  19

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

20 November 2016

Greater Houston

The 2016 Pinnacle Awards Cel By d-mars.com News Provider

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ounded in 1935 as the city’s first African-American civic organization, the Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce (GHBC) has evolved into an active participant in the City of Houston’s socioeconomic process. The organization is a 501(c)(6), not-for-profit, private, member-driven organization that serves the Greater Houston Area. The GHBC recently held its 22nd Annual Pinnacle Awards celebrating the success of African-American businesses.

AboutGHBC GHBC About Houston is one of the largest cities in the nation, located in a culturally diverse metropolitan region of over 5 million residents – and growing at more than twice the national pace. African-Americans constitute more than 20 percent of the population. The GHBC helps its partners and members navigate Houston’s large, diverse population, industries and the many nuances, which are unique to our city. The GHBC is the “go-to” organization for business development and community outreach partnership opportunities in the Houston African-American community.

The GHBC is dedicated to supporting African-American small businesses in the areas of education, certification and accessing contracting opportunities and capital. The GHBC is Houston’s premier source for identifying quality and qualified African-American, multi-sectored small businesses to do business with. The organization has a database of over 2,000 unique resources and members.

The GHBC has earned Houston’s trust and has built solid alliances with the Port of Houston Authority, Shell, Marathon Oil, CenterPoint Energy, Reliant Energy, United Healthcare, Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Initiative, the Greater Houston Partnership, Rice University, Houston Community College System, Texas Southern University, the Houston Minority Supplier Development Council and other organizations to ensure it is providing accessible resources to its members and the business community. Partnering with the GHBC is synonymous with having access to potential new customers, quality African-American small business resources and demonstrates a care for doing business with the African-American community.

Membership Membership Houston is a large, thriving city that depends on its business owners, organizations, and citizens for its continued growth and success. The GHBC is proud that many can attest to the benefits of membership with the organization. Their alliances with corporate partners create

unique and very present opportunities to connect and flourish.

The mission of the GHBC is to both secure and retain a broad and diverse base of members that reflect the culture of the GHBC community, and provide financial and volunteer resources to implement the organization’s initiatives.

Foundation Foundation The GHBC takes great joy in enriching the business community that it serves. The Foundation is an extension of the GHBC that works tirelessly to provide opportunities for members, aspiring entrepreneurs, professionals and students. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports all GHBC programs.

Over the past 38 years, the GHBC has given countless dollars toward advancing, educating, equipping and empowering other minority business entrepreneurs, professionals and students.

This work of charity is both relevant

and necessary to meet the growing needs of our community.

The GHBC is focused on assisting both mature and young minority entrepreneurs to both create and facilitate growth for their businesses. Their goal is to ensure the continual success of the Foundation so that GHBC efforts can help ensure the long-term success of its member companies and corporate partners.

ThePinnacle PinnacleAwards Awards The For the past 22 years, the GHBC has hosted the Pinnacle Awards honoring excellence, tenacity and dedication of entrepreneurial spirit in the African-American business community. The GHBC established the Pinnacle Awards in 1994. The award ceremony was created to recognize outstanding African-American businesses in the greater Houston area. The Pinnacle Award is the most prestigious award that the GHBC bestows in honor of Black-owned businesses.

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

November 2016 21

n Black Chamber

lebrates the Height of Success The awards go to African-American entrepreneurs who not only have succeeded in business, but have positively impacted the communities and industries they serve. Recipients are professional, capable and committed to maintaining a high quality business operation worthy of the Pinnacle Award.

The2016 2016 Pinnacle Pinnacle The Awards winners: winners: Awards • Fort Bend Academy of Arts and Dance • Hiram Style, LLC • Kelly Kaluza and Associates • The Education Valet, Inc. • The Sutton Insurance Agency, Inc.

In addition to the coveted Pinnacle Awards, the GHBC 2016 Upstart Award was awarded to Taylor Elite Transportation, LLC. “Pinnacle continues to expand our reach within the African-American and greater Houston community,” says Che’ McFerrin, Pinnacle Co-Chair, Supplier Diversity Lead with NRG. “I'm honored to celebrate each business who courageously expands economic empowerment for all.”

The program also honored Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner with the Lifetime Achievement Award, and SenatorElect Borris L. Miles with the Mickey Leland Entrepreneurial Public Leadership Award. Other community award recipients were Janette Cosley, Ensemble Theater, with the Endurance Award; Errol Allen, II, National Black MBA – Houston Chapter with the Excellence Award; and LaMecia Butler, Super Bowl Host Committee with the Advocate of the Year Award.

“The evening was such a majestic display of the impact and influence of the GHBC in the city of Houston. It was an honor to serve as Co-Chair alongside Mrs. McFerrin to celebrate all who were in attendance,” stated Co-Chair Latoya Bullard-Franklin, CEO of The Bulsard Group, LLC. Houston’s local clergy also received honors: Bishop James Dixon, Community of Faith, Co-Pastors Remus and Mia Wright, Fountain of Praise and Pastor Kirbyjon Caldwell, Windsor Village UMC were honored with the Community of Faith Award.

The GHBC continues to represent the interests of and promote greater unity among the African-American business community. The GHBC Pinnacle Award ceremony will continue to recognize and honor outstanding African-American businesses that are paying it forward.

For more information about the Greater Houston Black Chamber, please visit www.ghbcc.com or call the GHBC at (713) 660-8299.

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

22  November 2016

Are You a Savvy Donor?

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By d-mars.com News Provider

hile many people may be thinking of pumpkins, apple picking and football in the fall, this time of year also marks the beginning of the holiday giving season.

Savvy donors understand the practical benefit of giving before the end of the calendar year - to ensure credit is received on their next tax return. In fact, about 34 percent of all charitable giving is done in the last three months of the year, according to Blackbaud Inc., a leading supplier of software and data intelligence services for nonprofit organizations.

If you are planning to support a charitable organization this holiday season, consider these tips for smart giving.

Do your research. More than 1 million charities are registered with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Compare organizations and study how they function by visiting sites such as the Better Business Bureau.

The best charitable organizations ensure that the majority of their revenue goes to the causes they support, not operating expenses.

Only give to registered charities.

In order to accept donations, most charitable organizations - depending on the state - must be registered with the Department of Justice (DOJ).

Before you donate, check your state's DOJ database to confirm the organization is registered.

Make sure your gift is tax-deductible. The government recognizes the value of charitable organizations, so many contributions to approved charities are tax-deductible. The key to receiving a tax deduction is making sure the charitable organization you choose is qualified by the IRS. To be sure, visit the IRS website. You must also keep accurate records, so get a written acknowledgment or receipt for your fi-

nancial contribution.

For those who can't afford to contribute financially to a cause, there are other ways to make a positive local impact throughout the year.

Do business with companies that also give back. According to the National Philanthropic Trust, corporate giving in 2015 increased to $18.46 billion - a 3.9 percent increase from $17.77 billion in 2014. Companies large and small - are finding new ways to enhance their own corporate giving.

For instance, Ply Gem Industries, a leading U.S. manufacturer of home building products including windows, siding, roofing and more, recently launched the Home for Good project to build affordable housing across America. The company made a multiyear commitment to donate more than $1 million in products and funds to Habitat for Humanity - helping build nearly 300 homes in 2016 alone - with company associates and industry professionals also volunteering their time to support the project.

"Corporations today have an obligation to the communities they serve," says Gary E. Robinette, chairman and CEO, Ply Gem Industries. "In fact, multiple studies show that consumers are increasingly more willing to do business with companies that make positive social impacts. Ply Gem's Home for Good project embodies this philosophy while ensuring that we help make the communities where we live, work and play better."

Take your giving beyond a monetary donation by getting involved.

The holiday season often serves as a reminder for citizens to give back by volunteering their time. Check out programs like Home for Good, which offer the opportunity to volunteer in cities across the United States. To find ways to make a difference in your area, visit www.HomeForGoodProject.com.

By following these tips, you can make a difference this season and reduce your tax burden for the upcoming year. – BPT

Is Your Pension Protected?

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By d-mars.com News Provider

veryone knows it is important to save for retirement in order to build a nest egg and enjoy the "golden years." So why is it that state and local governments many times act irresponsibly when it comes to saving for the future of public employees?

Government pensions are the way in which state and local public employees like teachers, police officers and firefighters receive retirement benefits. Typically both the employee and the government set aside money each year to be invested.

The investments will hopefully grow over time, and both the annual contributions and the investment growth is understood to form the pool of money public employees will be able to use once they reach retirement. That's the theory.

Unfortunately, according to Unaccountable and Unaffordable 2016, a new, state-by state analysis from the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), government pensions are being massively underfunded across the states, and now hardworking taxpayers are on the hook. What is the price tag? Across the 50 states, unfunded pension obligations now total $5.6 trillion. Now, that number sounds large at a national scale, but what does it mean for the average American? To be exact, this state pension debt equates to an average price tag of $17,427 for every man, woman and child in the United States.

There are numerous reasons why pension liabilities are so large. For one, the stock market is not growing as quickly as many assumed it would, exiting the recent economic downturn. Therefore, investments for many pension funds are not meeting expectations. The average pension fund assumes they will earn a whopping 7.37 percent on their investments over the long term. These overlyoptimistic assumptions fly in the face of

what many financial experts are calling a "new normal" of lower than expected investment earnings in the future.

Another inconvenient truth is that many state governments have failed to deposit the annually required contributions into pension funds every year. The urge to spend more money on other government projects, however well intentioned, has diverted much-needed contributions away from pensions and has contributed significantly to unfunded liabilities.

When pensions are unstable, millions of Americans are faced with an uncertain retirement. However, this is not only a problem for government workers - it affects all Americans. Without a sustainable solution to underfunded pensions, higher taxes will be the reality for all hardworking taxpayers.

What's more, an increasing percentage of state budgets are being drained to pay pension benefits, with less money available for important functions like funding public schools and fixing roads. One especially sobering story comes from Illinois, where since 2009, this trend is so extreme that 89 cents out of every new dollar of education spending has gone to teacher pensions, leaving just 11 cents for salaries, textbooks, building costs and the various in-classroom costs of education. And by 2025, Illinois will spend more on teacher-retirement costs than it will spend on the classroom.

Pension funding is not a Republican vs. Democrat issue. It's a retirement issue that affects all Americans. Unfunded pension liabilities will be harmful to the future of workers, retirees and taxpayers alike, if forward-thinking policymakers do not tackle pension reform in a timely fashion.

To find out more about how prepared your state is and to see the full report, Unaccountable and Unaffordable 2016, is available at Alec.org/PensionDebt2016. – BPT

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November 2016 23

The Ever-Growing Gap: African-American & Latino Families Won’t Match White Wealth for Centuries

CFED & Institute for Policy Studies Report Key Findings

AMONG THE POLICY INTERVENTIONS SUGGESTED TO ADDRESS THIS GROWING CRISIS:

his report examines the growing racial wealth divide for Black and Latinos households and the ways that accelerating concentrations of wealth at the top compound and exacerbate this divide. They looked at trends in wealth accumulation from 1983 to 2013, as well as projections of what the next thirty years might bring. They also consider the impact public policy has had in contributing to the racial wealth divide and how new policies can close this gap.

Conduct an evidence-based, government-wide audit of federal policies to understand the role current policies play in perpetuating or closing the racial wealth divide. In order to address the racial wealth divide, policymakers first need to understand how current federal policies are leaving households of color behind.

Fix unfair, upside-down tax incentives to ensure households of color also receive support to build wealth.

Only by reforming the U.S. tax code and redeploying the more than half-trillion dollars spent on unfair tax programs can we ensure that all families—particularly households of color—have the same opportunities to build wealth that wealthy families currently enjoy.

Address the distorting influence of concentrated wealth at the top through the expansion of existing progressive taxes and the exploration of a dedicated wealth tax. Expanding opportunity for those at the bottom of the economic spectrum is not enough: we must also address the growing concentration of wealth at the top, predominantly in White hands, if we are going to reduce the racial wealth divide.

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THEIR MOST SIGNIFICANT FINDINGS ILLUSTRATE THE MAGNITUDE OF THE RACIAL WEALTH DISPARITY: • Over the past 30 years, the average wealth of White families has grown by 84%—1.2 times the rate of growth for the Latino population and three times the rate of growth for the Black population. If the past 30 years were to repeat, the next three decades would see the average wealth of White households increase by over $18,000 per year, while Latino and Black households would see their respective wealth increase by about $2,250 and $750 per year.

• Over the past 30 years, the wealth of the Forbes 400 richest Americans has grown by an average of 736%—10 times the rate of growth for the Latino population and 27 times the rate of growth for the Black population. Today, the wealthiest 100 members of the Forbes list alone own about as much wealth as the entire African-American population combined, while the wealthiest 186 members of the Forbes 400 own as much wealth as the entire Latino population combined. If average Black households had enjoyed the same growth rate as the Forbes 400 over the past 30 years, they would have an extra $475,000 in wealth today. Latino households would have an extra $386,000.

• By 2043—the year in which it is pro-

jected that people of color will make up a majority of the U.S. population—the wealth divide between White families and Latino and Black families will have doubled, on average, from about $500,000 in 2013 to over $1 million.

• If average Black family wealth continues to grow at the same pace it has over the past three decades, it would take Black families 228 years to amass the same amount of wealth White families have today. That’s just 17 years shorter than the 245-year span of slavery in this country. For the average Latino family, it would take 84 years to amass the same amount of wealth White families have today—that’s the year 2097.

#RacialWealthGap

Source: www.ips-dc.org

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

24 November 2016

UNCFMember HBCUs Help To Improve Student Loan Default Rates

By d-mars.com News Provider

UNCF-member historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) made significant progress in reducing student loan defaults rates, according to FY 2013 Cohort Default Rate data released recently. Two-thirds of the 37 HBCUs supported by UNCF reduced their FY 2013 Cohort Default Rates (CDRs) compared to the prior year, and some institutions cut default rates by 40 percent or more over the last two years.

“UNCF-member institutions have devoted tremendous time, resources and effort to reduce student loan defaults, all while using scarce funds to do their part, and these efforts are paying off,” said Dr. Michael L. Lomax, UNCF president and CEO. “Now, federal policymakers must step up to the plate to provide debt relief and better student loan services to the 80 percent of HBCU students who must borrow to get to and through college.”

Notably, all 101 eligible HBCUs produced three-year CDRs that fall below the 30 percent regulatory threshold. HBCUs were recognized by the Education Department for innovative approaches toward default management and reduction, including best practices such as tracking measureable goals, engaging students at orientation with borrower topics, enhanced entrance and exit counseling, increased contact with delinquent borrowers and borrower tracking.

For additional progress on student loan debt, delinquencies and defaults, UNCF recommends that federal policymakers: • Reduce the need for low-income students to borrow by increasing grant and work-study opportunities • Make federal student loans less costly for students and their parents • Hold federal student loan servicing contractors accountable for serving students at a high level • Establish a single, simple and automatic income-based repayment plan for all federal student loan borrowers Source: hbcubuzz.com

Do You Really Need a Real Estate Agent?

By d-mars.com News Provider

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hen it comes to selling your property, you want the best price possible.

Though you may want to get an agent for the convenience, Investopedia has some great reasons as to why you may not need a real estate agent. Some of the situations below may apply to you.

You have the time and effort to devote to the sale.

Selling a property takes a lot of time and effort, and here is another area where an agent can really earn his or her commission. Marketing, showing and responding to questions about the property can become a full-time job.

A real estate agent may be able to sell your property faster. He or she may already have a file of people who are looking for a property like yours. In addition, the agent can quickly list your property with a multiple listing service (MLS) that can greatly increase the property's exposure on the market. The agent may network with other agents to find out if they have potential buyers for the property. They will include the property on the company's website and advertise in a variety of channels. That being said, if you've got the time (and this is how you want to spend it) you can certainly venture out on your own. Create your own listing on websites that specialize in FSBOs - for sale by owner.

Popular websites include www. forsalebyowner.com and www.ListByOwnerInMLS.com, which allows your property to be entered into the

MLS for a fee.

You are familiar with real estate procedures and contracts.

While most real estate agents are not lawyers, they do provide guidance and direction in making sure that all of the proper paperwork has been completed.

Most agents are experienced in what documents are required - and when, where and by whom they must be filed.

Even with an agent, however, you will still need to retain a lawyer to handle the legal documentation. If you are familiar with real estate transactions, you can, with the help of a lawyer, complete all the necessary paperwork without the assistance of a real estate agent.

A real estate agent can also help you set a reasonable asking price for your home based on comparables in the area. You could instead pay a real estate appraiser to do this; typically this service costs about $200 and the appraiser will provide a fair market price for the property.

You will be available to show the property.

One of the things that you are paying for through a real estate agent's commission is convenience. The agent must be available to show potential buyers the property, or can arrange a lock box containing keys to the property so that buyers can view the property on their own.

The agent will ask to see identification and will document who viewed the property and when.

Many buyers look at dozens of properties before making a decision, and if your property isn't easy to view (i.e. you are not freely available to show the property) the potential buyer will probably move on to the next home on the list. However, if you are frequently home - if you work from home, are a stay-at-home parent or are

otherwise a homebody - you may be able to make this work.

You are a savvy marketer.

While we have all cringed at some real estate agents' listing descriptions - think "quaint bungalow needs a little TLC" - most do provide the positive spin a property needs to attract potential buyers. They know the current market, what elements of a property are the "hot topics" and what homebuyers are looking for now. In short, they know what sells and they know the lingo. In addition to the property's description, an agent can provide a host of marketing venues to get the word out.

Can you do the same? You bet, especially if you have a little marketing savvy and internet know-how. Listing your property on FSBO websites is a sound choice, and a perfect write-up and professional looking photos will set you apart from the masses who list on these sites. Additionally, a website dedicated to your property can assist in attracting potential buyers, especially if it includes a virtual tour of the property and other useful information such as details on nearby schools and hospitals. A domain name can be purchased for less than $10 per year and typically comes with website templates that you can customize to showcase your property. You can also place ads in local newspapers and put a brochure box at the property containing a detailed flyer.

It’s completely up to you whether or not to go with a real estate agent when selling your property. If you go at it on your own and see you are unsuccessful, you can hire an agent to do the selling.

If you have the time, energy and enthusiasm to put into selling your property, you may not need a real estate agent.

Source: Investopedia

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26 November 2016

Millennials & Money

can result in a penalty at tax time. Montanaro points out that this penalty has risen to 2.5 percent of household adjusted gross income in 2016, or a flat rate which is expected to rise in the coming years.

For millennials who may not currently have large medical bills or health issues, Montanaro recommends they look at a high-deductible plan with a health savings account (HSA). An HSA allows account holders to set aside pre-tax money for health expenses and free-up some emergency cash when they do eventually need it.

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By d-mars.com News Provider

illennials are frequently criticized for needing instant gratification, but recent reports point out that they actually have more patience than previous generations. Both the U.S. Census Bureau and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say millennials are delaying getting married and starting a family by almost a decade.

And it’s not just life decisions millennials are postponing; this behavior is also prevalent in their financial decisions. According to a recent survey from Bankrate.com, millennials are putting off important financial moves due to high levels of student debt.

“Knocking out debt should be a priority when you are young, but it’s also important to balance that with other key financial priorities,” says JJ Montanaro, a financial planner with USAA. “Time is your number one ally when planning for the future and delaying now may cost you more in the long run.”

Montanaro highlights the three main financial priorities millennials shouldn’t hit the pause button on: Life insurance A recent LIMRA survey found that one

in three millennials acknowledge they need additional life insurance coverage.

However, most aren’t purchasing it because they think it’s too expensive or because they have other financial priorities.

While millennials may not immediately reap the benefits of life insurance coverage, locking in the cost of life insurance premiums at a young age can pay off in the future. Montanaro explains that life insurance premiums will only increase with age and additional health complications.

With many life changes likely on the horizon, millennials should find a plan that offers term life event options that allow them to easily increase coverage following significant events such as get-

ting married, having a child or buying a home.

Montanaro also points out that life insurance may not cost as much as buyers anticipate. According to LIMRA, more than eight in 10 people overestimate the cost of a policy. He says a life insurance calculator is a great place to start to understand coverage needs and estimate costs.

Health insurance Regardless of overall health or age, it’s important to have health insurance and understand what it covers to avoid additional penalties and plan for the unexpected.

Under the Affordable Care Act, not having a qualified health insurance plan

Retirement investing Only one-third of individuals aged 18 to 35 say they invest in the market, according to a recent Bankrate. com survey. Montanaro says sitting on the sidelines with retirement savings may result in millennials missing out on the power of compounding returns and may even extend their retirement timeline.

But retirement investing doesn’t have to be intimidating. Montanaro recommends starting small with a low-cost mutual fund, such as a target date fund, that allows a low entry point, requires little maintenance and invests in a portfolio that automatically adjusts as retirement gets closer.

The most important step is to get a foot in the door. While USAA recommends investing 10 percent of your income toward retirement, even earmarking 1 percent for the future provides a foundation upon which to build. – BPT

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

November 2016  27

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

28 November 2016

Nielsen 2016 Report:

Black Millennials Close The Digital Divide By d-mars.com News Provider

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lack Millennials are 11.5 million strong and leading a viral vanguard that is driving African-Americans’ innovative use of mobile technology and closing the digital divide. Nielsen highlights this group in a new report, "Young, Connected and Black: African-American Millennials Are Driving Social Change and Leading Digital Advancement.”

With $162 billion in buying power and undisputed cultural influence, Black Millennials are using their power to successfully raise awareness of issues facing the Black community and influence decisions shaping our world. Media and brands are taking notice, creating campaigns and content that target this increasingly influential demographic with greater ad spends and more diverse programming.

The sixth in Nielsen’s Diverse Intelligence Series focused on Black consumers, "Young, Connected and Black" paints a picture of a Black diaspora that is techsavvy; socially and civically engaged; growing in population (46.3 million or 14% of the U.S. population) and buying power (nearly $1.2 trillion in 2015); and optimistic about the future.

“We have entered a new era whereby technology has become a great equalizer,” said Cheryl Grace (née PearsonMcNeil), Senior Vice President, U.S. Strategic Community Alliances and Consumer Engagement. "Black Millennials are leading the way in their use of technology to impact change and get their voices heard.”

The 83.1 million U.S. Millennials are considered a key voting bloc this November. Black Millennials represent 14% of all Millennials and 25% of the total Black population. The top five markets for Black Millennials (by population) are New York, Atlanta, Chicago, DC and South Florida (Miami/ Ft. Lauderdale). Weeks before the 2016 presidential race, the power of the Black electorate is a particular point of interest given the records set in 2012 when, bolstered by its Millennial population, African-Americans had the highest rate of voter registration and voter turnout of any demographic group in the U.S. “African-American Millennials are blazing trails to the center of the debate over matters that are paramount to their future success and safety—all as their influence over mainstream consumers grows,” said Deborah GrayYoung, Managing Partner, D. GrayYoung Inc., a multicultural marketing consulting firm and Nielsen External Advisory Council member. “Nielsen continues to be the definitive source of independent third-party insights on consumers of color. This annual report is an essential tool for organizations looking to develop a deeper contextual understanding of the influence and

economic power of Black consumers.”

The 2016 report delves into the spending and viewing habits of African-Americans overall and credits a voracious appetite for television content with the dramatic increase in diverse television programming. Between 2011 and 2015, broadcast network TV ad spend focused on Black audiences (defined as ad dollars placed on programming with greater than 50% Black viewers) increased by 255%. The Top 10 TV shows among Black Millennials 18–24 and Blacks 35+ all had predominately Black casts or lead actors who are key to the storyline (e.g.

“Empire,” “How to Get Away With Murder,” and “The Walking Dead”).

Some other key highlights from the report:

African-Americans are Closing the Digital Divide • African-American Millennials are 25% more likely than all Millennials to say they are among the first of their friends/colleagues to try new technology products.

• As smartphone owners, AfricanAmericans (91%) are second only to Asian-Americans (94%).

• 91% of African-Americans say they access the Internet on a mobile device, an increase from 86% in 2015, which further cements their status as digital leaders.

A Viral Vanguard: Social media engagement

Education advancements of Black Millennials

• 55% of Black Millennials report spending at least one hour a day on social networking sites, which is 6% higher than all Millennials, while 29% say they spend at least three hours a day, 9% higher than all Millennials.

• 28% of African-Americans age 35+ say they use social networking sites for at least one hour per day, which is 2% higher than the total population in this age group. Ten percent of AfricanAmericans age 35+ say they use social networking sites for at least three hours per day, which is 2% higher than the total population age 35+).

• 89% of African Americans ages 25–34 completed high school, compared to 77% of Black Americans ages 55 and older.

• 21% of African Americans ages 25–34 have an associate’s college degree or higher, versus 17% of those who are 55 and older.

Voracious Content Consumers • African-American Millennials watch nearly 33 hours of live and DVR time-shifted television per week, about 12 and half more hours per week than total Millennials.

• African-American Millennials spend about two hours more per week (eight hours and 29 minutes versus six hours and 28 minutes) using the internet on PCs, and about an hour more weekly (three hours and 47 minutes versus two hours and 33 minutes) watching video on PCs than total Millennials.

African-American incomes and spending power • Overall Black spending power is projected to reach $1.4 trillion by 2020.

• From 2004 – 20014 the number of Black households with annual incomes of $50,000 - $75,000 increased 18% compared to 2% for the total U.S. For Black households earning $100,000+ annually, the increase between 2004 and 2014 was 95%, compared with 66% for the total population.

• The share of Black households with an income less than $25,000 declined from 43% in 2004 to 37% of the total African-American population in 2014.

Source Nielsen at www.nielsen.com

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

November 2016  29

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

30 November 2016

Celebrating 10 Years of Style Genius: Hiram H. Smith By d-mars.com News Provider

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eet Hiram H. Smith, Founder and CEO of HiramStyle, Inc., a full-service event production and design company which boasts a stellar roster of local and national clients.

Hiram was recently honored as the recipient of the 2016 Pinnacle Award for African American achievement in business awarded by the Greater Houston Chamber. Behind his friendly, outgoing personality, however, is a journey that speaks impressively to the perseverance that must accompany talent to succeed in any field.

A native of New Orleans, Hiram – along with his widowed mother, sisters and their families – relocated to Houston in 2005, after the devastating impact of Hurricane Katrina. Hiram’s Gentilly neighborhood was inundated

by Katrina’s flood waters, forcing him to abandon his home and an awardwinning career as an event designer with an outstanding reputation for creating elegant décor and a transformative ambience in diverse venues for his clients.

Not one to be defeated, Hiram rebuilt a life and career in Houston, making quite a name for himself as one of the premier event production and management companies in Houston and around the nation.

In 2006, his hard work and prayerful determination resulted in the establishment of HiramStyle, a name he chose to connect him personally to the high-end standards of his brand, while strengthening his bond with clients.

Hiram credits much of his success in an enterprise which requires strategic networking relationships with the public and private sectors, as well as industry vendors, to the generous and welcoming support of the Houston Business Community.

Over the past decade, HiramStyle has become an authentic success story.

Guided by Hiram’s creative genius, the company has gained widespread local and national recognition for its toptier presentations for a diverse group of individual, corporate and organizational clients. Operating from its Houston base, HiramStyle translates a passion for excellence and attention to detail into customized event styling services with signature touches of elegance, particularly distinctive floral treatments, designed to elevate any gathering into a visually stimulating and unforgettable experience. Indeed, HiramStyle’s rise from its post-Katina trials to professional triumphs is a testimony not only to entrepreneurship as a vehicle for achievement over

formidable odds, but a tribute to the caring support of business peers who open their hearts and resources to newcomers.

HiramStyle’s client roster currently includes AARP, National Association of Black Realtors, Houston Black Realtors, BET, Black Enterprise, CocaCola, Walmart, Prudential, MonAmi Entertainment, National Association of Market Developers, National Urban League, Odyssey Media Network, Oprah Winfrey’s OWN Network, TVOne, among others, as well as national conferences for sororities and

fraternities. Additionally, HiramStyle coordinated a major event for the Texas Legislative Black Caucus under the leadership of then Rep. Sylvester Turner, now Mayor of Houston.

Throughout his career, Hiram Smith has been dedicated to giving back to the community. He has had a special interest in helping young people to grow into leadership, while uplifting the lives of those of all ages and from all walks of life. He has worked with the Prayer Institute of Windsor Village, the Fountain of Praise Epiphany Benefit, the Metamorphosis Empowerment Wom-

en’s Program, St. John’s Senior Citizens Program, the Texas Southern University Mentoring Program and the Fashion Lab, which Hiram developed to harness the creativity and redirect the lives of hundreds of youth in at-risk situations in New Orleans – many of whom are now making their mark in a variety of related fields.

Most recently, Hiram has teamed with Texas Southern University and other concerned entities to launch The Authorized Foundation. This 501c3 nonprofit organization is dedicated to nurturing and mentoring disadvantaged youth and young adults in the urban communities of Houston, Texas, and New Orleans, Louisiana initially, with plans for expansion into other selected cities. The Authorized Foundation is a multi-ethnic, inclusive, hands-on organization welcoming all through programming that targets those in home environments that are financially, emotionally, parentally and spiritually challenged. Their mission is to influence and develop a national community of young people who will transform their lives by embracing their “Authorized Selves” – intellectually, creatively and personally – to become fully realized legacy-bearers who will in turn effect positive growth in their families and communities.

Through this effort, HiramStyle seeks to continue to “pay it forward” to the next generation of leaders.

A dynamic decade as a stellar event company is no small feat and Hiram is celebrating big – and of course, in style – with HiramStyle 10! This not-to-bemissed benefit gala, now in the final planning stages for 2017, will reflect the WOW factor that characterizes Hiram Smith’s distinctive events. According to Hiram, “We’re excited to showcase HiramStyle’s pride in Houston as one of the fastest growing cities in the nation and an emerging international presence under Mayor Turner’s leadership. We’re bringing in popular celebrity guests and other major surprises are in store for attendees.” A part of the proceeds will be used to support and expand the work of The Authorized Foundation in the Houston community.

“In honor of the decade,” Hiram adds, “I will recognize individuals with an All Access Award as a gesture of appreciation for the helping hands that embraced, inspired, pushed and encouraged HiramStyle over the years, as well as those whose generous spirit assisted in opening doors. I am truly appreciative to those in Houston who have embraced me and this company. I don’t take it for granted.”

For more on HiramStyle, please visit www.hiramstyle.com. Stay tuned for updates on the exciting HiramStyle10! event coming in 2017.

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Trends In Ethnic Diversity:

Women – Owned Businesses

State of Women Owned Businesses Report

I

n 1997, there were just under 1 million (929,445) firms owned by minority women, accounting for one in six (17%) women-owned firms. That number has skyrocketed to an estimated 3,111,300 as of 2015, now comprising one in three (33%) women-owned firms. These 3.1 million multicultural women-owned firms employ 1.6 million workers in addition to the owner and generate an estimated $268 billion in revenues.

Average Size of Women-Owned Firms by Race/Ethnicity

Race/Ethnicity

Number of Firms

Avg. # Employees (other than owner)

Avg. Revenues per Firm

All women-owned firms

9,410,800

0.8

$155,477

All minority-owned

3,111,300

0.5

86,199

African American

1,319,400

0.2

39,893

Asian American

714,100

1.0

170,723

Latina

1,094,400

0.4

68,479

Native American/ Alaska Native

125,800

0.3

81,849

Native Hawaiian/ Pacific Islander

21,200

0.8

96,877

Non-Minority

6,299,500

1.0

189,694

While minority women-owned firms are smaller than nonminority womenowned businesses both in terms of average employment and revenues, their growth in number and economic clout is generally far outpacing that of all women-owned firms. Indeed, the growth in the number of African American (up 322% from 1997 to 2015), Asian American (+195%), Latina (+224%), Native American/ Alaska Native (+135%), and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (+268%) women-owned firms all top the growth in the number of non-minority women-owned firms (+40%) over the past 18 years.

Growth in employment (except among Native American/Alaska Native womenowned firms) and revenue growth are also stronger among firms owned by minority women than among non-minority women-owned firms. While this is, in part, due to growth from a smaller base number, it does indicate that business ownership is an increasing career path for all women. Firms owned by African American women number an estimated 1,319,400 as of 2015. These 1.3 million firms employ 297,500

workers in addition to the owner and generate an estimated $52.6 billion in revenue.

African American women own fully 49% of all African American-owned firms, employ 29% of the workers employed by African American-owned firms, and contribute 29% of the revenue generated by African American-owned businesses. While nationally African American women comprise 14% of all women-owned firms, African American women comprise a greater than average share of all women-owned firms in Georgia (35%), Maryland (33%), and Illinois (22%).

Firms owned by Latinas number an estimated 1,094,400 as of 2015. These firms employ 451,100 workers in addition to the owner and generate an estimated $74.9 billion in revenue. Latina women own 37% of all Latino-owned firms, employ 20% of the workers employed by Latino-owned firms, and contribute 16% of the revenue generated by Latino-owned businesses. While nationally 12% of women-owned firms are owned by Latinas, Latinas comprise the greatest share of all women-owned firms in New Mexico (31%), Texas (26%), Florida (25%) and California (21%).

Firms owned by Asian American women number an estimated 714,100 as of 2015. These firms employ 733,800 workers in addition to the owner and generate an estimated $121.9 billion in revenue. Asian American women own 36% of all Asian American-owned firms, employ 23% of the workers employed by Asian Americanowned firms, and contribute 19% of the revenue generated by Asian Americanowned businesses. While nationally Asian American women own 8% of womenowned firms, a greater than average share of Asian American women-owned firms (compared to all women-owned firms in the state) can be found in Hawaii (56%), California (18%), New Jersey (11%) and New York (11%).

Firms owned by Native American or Alaska Native women number an estimated 125,800 as of 2015. These firms employ 37,700 workers in addition to the owner and generate an estimated $10.3 billion in revenue. Native American/Alaska Native women own 48% of all Native American/Alaska Native-owned firms, employ 35% of the workers, and contribute 30% of the revenue generated by Native American/ Alaska Native-owned businesses. While nationally Native American/Alaska Native women comprise just 1% of women-owned firms, that share rises to 11% in Oklahoma, 8% in New Mexico and 3% in Arizona.

Firms owned by Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander women number an estimated 21,200 as of 2015. These firms employ 16,000 workers in addition to the owner and generate an estimated $2 billion in revenue. Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander women own 42% of all Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander-owned firms, employ 40% of the workers, and contribute 26% of the revenue generated by Native Hawaiian/ Pacific Islander owned businesses. Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander women-owned firms comprise less than 0.5% of the women-owned business population nationally.

In Hawaii, however, 13% of women-owned firms are majority owned by Native Hawaiians or natives of other Pacific Islands.

Source: The 2015 State of Women Owned Businesses Report

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