Business Journal 157

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BUSINESS JOURNAL

Entrepreneur | Business | Education and Career | Finance | Legal | Real Estate | Technology | Insurance

September 2020

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Inspire, Inform & Educate

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157th Edition

Frenchy’s Chicken

Breaks Ground on New Flagship Scott Street Location LEFT TO RIGHT: Percy “King” Creuzot, III and Sallie Creuzot 10-11

INSIDE

10-11

06

Myra Mallet Joins Houston Habitat As First Chief Financial Officer

Congratulations to Frenchy’s chicken on the new location and your journey of more than 51 years of showing how a successful family-run business supports the community it calls home. -MR. D-MARS

26

Ige Johnson Awarded Membership in RE/MAX Hall of Fame

September 2020 | 3

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

MR. D-MARS CERTIFIED:

HMSDC

d-mars.com is proud to share the success stories of African American businesses and civic and community leaders. We know that success does not always come easy and it is not always measured in money. How have you helped your fellow entrepreneur? Have you supported your locally-owned African American business? Have you donated to a nonprofit that is working in our underserved communities? Questions to think about and actions to take.

This month’s issue highlights Frenchy’s Chicken. Frenchy’s has been a Houston community staple since 1969. The beloved original location on Scott Street will be moving… just down the street to a new

Port of Houston

BEHIND THE JOURNAL PUBLISHER & CEO Keith J. Davis, Sr. COO & MANAGING EDITOR Kimberly Floyd ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla STAFF WRITER Carly Hammack ART DIRECTOR Angel Rosa DISTRIBUTION Rockie Hayden PHOTOGRAPHY L.C. Poullard Grady Carter CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Noel Pinnock Stacy M. Brown Reggie Collier d-mars.com

METRO

“Success isn’t about how much money you make.

It’s about the difference you make in people’s lives.”

-Michelle Obama

City of Houston

state of the art building. The Creuzot Family, along with friends and community leaders, recently broke ground on the new location. As a black business owner, I looked up to Mr. Creuzot when I was growing up and just starting my business.

Congratulations to the Creuzot Family for more than 51 years of showing us how a familyowned and operated business kindly and humbly supports the community it serves.

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

HISD

CONTENTS

VBE

DBE

OUR SERVICES

04 BUSINESS 04 Diversifying the Talent Pool Drives a More Inclusive Workforce 06­ Myra Mallet Joins Houston Habitat As First Chief Financial Officer 08 Houston Ranks 11 in 100 Best Cities in America 09 COMMUNITY 09 Black Education Matters: Children’s Book Lights the Path to College for Black Students 09, 12 EDUCATION & CAREER 09 Prepping for a Successful School Year 12 4 ways to get ready for school no matter where you’re learning 10-11 COVER STORY 10-11 Frenchy’s Chicken Breaks Ground on New Flagship Scott Street Location 13-20 HEALTH & WELLNESS 14 Protecting Your Eyesight Against The Silent Advance Of Glaucoma 16 How to care for your eyes while working from home 18 How to help your children cope with the pandemic 20 5 Common Questions About Life Insurance

HUB

10-11

22 FINANCE 22 How do you prepare for the future when life is so uncertain now?

22 Tips for Handling Your Finances During a Crisis 24 PRESS RELEASE 24 Ige Johnson Awarded Membership in RE/MAX Hall of Fame

ADVERTISING | MARKETING MEDIA | COMMUNICATION • Business Journal • Health & Wellness Journal • Community Journal • Black Pages Online Business Directory • Top 50 Black Health, Medical & Wellness Professionals • Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs • Top 30 Influential Women of Houston • Top 25 Prime & Subcontractors for Diversity • Business Connection • Business Development • Business Consulting • Graphic Design • Photography • Printing • Web Design • Online & Email Marketing • Public Relations • Social Media • Advertising • Writing • Promotional Marketing

26 TECHNOLOGY 26 Creating connections in a high-tech world: 3 tips to improve customer service 26 7 ways technology can help you make the most of your summer 30 TRAVEL 30 8 simple tips to travel responsibly in 2020

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4 | September 2020 BUSINESS

Diversifying the Talent Pool Drives a More Inclusive Workforce By d-mars.com News Provider

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ccording to Partnership data, in 2018, roughly 3 million adults in the Houston MSA over the age of 25 did not hold a bachelor’s degree or higher degree. About 923,000 – or 20% - of adults over the age of 25 in the Houston MSA have taken some college courses but do not have a degree. Just more than 1 million individuals in that age group – 23% - have a high school diploma or GED but did not move on the college. And, about 736,000 adults over the age of 25 – or 16% - lack a high school diploma.

That nearly 3 million people – or roughly 60% of adults over the age of 25 – could be left out of the talent pool for well-paying jobs due to on one specific criterion: Whether they hold a bachelor’s degree.

According to the report “Dismissed by Degrees,” research conducted by Accenture, Grads of Life and the Harvard Business School, there is a significant discrepancy between the demand for a college degree in job postings and the number of employees currently in those jobs who have a college degree. It also highlights the adverse impact degree requirement have on employers who end up paying college degreed employees at a premium for these roles and then not retaining them.

Individuals without that degree but who might otherwise have the skills and knowledge to perform the job – and perform it well – may be dissuaded from applying or could have their applications dismissed on the bases of not meeting requirements. This specific educational attainment could also prevent otherwise qualified middle-skill workers from transitioning into advanced middle-skill and high-skilled occupations, as evidenced in UpSkill Houston’s July report “Navigating the Changing Nature of Work.”

While requiring a bachelor’s degree could leave a significant portion of the overall population out of good careers and progression, it could particularly hold back Black and Hispanic residents. According to Partnership data, more than 27% of Black and 15% of Hispanic adults over the age of 25 lack a bachelor’s or higher degree or higher degree. Just under 9% of Black adults are without a high school diploma; that percentage soars to just less than 36% of Hispanic adults.

Educational attainment appears to also impact household income. Rice University’s Kinder Institute for Urban Studies reported in its 2020 Kinder Houston Area Survey that the region’s U.S.-born Black and U.S.-born Hispanic residents were both twice as likely to have household incomes below $37,000 than U.S.-born Anglo residents. Hispanic immigrants were three times as likely.

But increasingly companies are removing the bachelor’s degree as a minimum requirement, opting instead for the degree or equivalent

experience or simply focusing on experience with no degree preference – particularly in tech areas. Examples include Apple, Google and IBM. Earlier this year, Tesla boss Elon Musk announced via Twitter that educational background was irrelevant to work in his artificial intelligence (AI) department.

As recently as June, the federal government announced steps to adopt this shift, too. By presidential order, the U.S. Office of Personnel Management is to revise its job qualifications, de-emphasizing whether an applicant has a college degree and placing more weight on an applicant’s skills. The order acknowledges an unclear relationship between holding a degree and having a strong skillset and specifically cites degree barriers as barriers to economic mobility inclusivity.

“Degree-based hiring is especially likely to exclude qualified candidates for jobs related to emerging technologies and those with weak connections between educational attainment and the skills or competencies required to perform them. Moreover, unnecessary obstacles to opportunity disproportionately burden low-income Americans and decrease economic mobility,” the order states. “Modernizing our country’s processes for identifying and hiring talent will provide America a more inclusive and demand-driven labor force,” it reads.

Makingthe theShift Shiftto toSkills-Based Making Skills-Based Hiring Hiring The Markle Foundation’s Skillful initiative, which is dedicated to enable all Americans, and particularly those without a four-year degree, to secure good jobs in a changing economy, characterizes a “skills-based” job posting as one that uses competencies to attract candidates with the skills required for the job, distinguishes qualification between required and preferred competencies and reduces bias by using inclusive language.

By contrast, a “pedigree-based” posting uses credentials (like a degree or work experience) to assume a skill level, lists qualifications that lack specificity and prioritization and may include unintentional bias creating barriers to qualified applicants.

Skillful operates in in Colorado and Indiana, and facilitates the Skillful State Network, a coalition of 20 state governors to accelerate development and deployment of effective skills-based practices to transform their labor markets.

It offers a four-step guide for writing a skills-based job posting to help employers get started, and shares success stories.

Companies can begin the process by identifying the skills employees need to carry out specific duties in their particular roles.

UpSkill Houston believes that by considering the skills individuals need to perform well in a role and seeking them out in a talent pool, employers can help Houstonians connect to good jobs and increase economic opportunity and prosperity for all.

Source: Greater Houston Partnership

VOTE YOUR WAY

Vote by Mail Vote In Person Early Voting Drive-Thru Voting 24-Hour Voting Last day to register to vote: October 5 Vote by Mail applications due: October 23 Early Voting: October 13-30 Election Day: November 3

HarrisVotes.com

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September 2020 | 5

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6 | September 2020 PRESS RELEASE

Myra Mallet Joins

Houston Habitat As First Chief Financial Officer By d-mars.com News Provider

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ou ston Habitat for Humanity has hired its first Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Myra Mallet as the organization continues to expand its services in support of home, community, and hope. With an annual budget of $17M, Houston Habitat is a leader in the development of affordable housing in Houston where one in seven households spend half or more of their income on housing.

A s CFO, Mallet will oversee Finance, Mortgage Services, Human Resources, and IT departments. The Houston Habitat Board of Directors led a national search to fill the position. “It is truly significant that we have come to a place where we can add the position of CFO,” commented Executive Director Allison Hay, “With COVID-19 and Hurricane Harvey, the need has never been greater to provide those most in need with a safe place to call home. Myra will be crucial to our ability to activate our strategic plan and provide the necessary financial structure to ensure we can deliver on our mission.”

Mallet will be key in the development of Robins Landing, a 127 acre mixed-use, mixedincome, master-planned community in near northeast Houston for those in all stages of life.

The project is scheduled to break ground in 2021.

Mallet is a Certified Public Accountant with more than 25 years of experience in financial operations, business development, and project management. She comes to Houston Habitat from BHP, where she was most recently Head of Enterprise Improvement, Finance. Prior to that position she served in multiple roles at BHP including Head of Finance Business Partnering and Operations Accounting Controller. In addition, she has held management positions in accounting, finance, and training with Transocean, Resolution Performance Products, and Shell Chemical Company.

Mallet received her Master of Science in Accounting from the University of

St. Thomas and a Bachelor of Science from Alcorn State University. “I have long admired Houston Habitat and I am eager to bring my expertise to support and expand their commitment to affordable housing,” commented Mallet.

Mallet resides in Cypress and is a life member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Alcorn State University Alumni Association, and a founding member of The Word of God Christian Fellowship Church. She is originally from Natchez, Mississippi.

Committed to a world where everyone has a decent place to live, Houston Habitat for Humanity’s work includes new home

Final HEB Diversity Red ads.qxp

4/7/08

11:24 AM

Page 5

At H-E-B, each and every Partner is responsible for upholding our commitment to diversity. Our daily actions value both the differences and

construction, home rehabilitation and disaster repair, infrastructure development for new communities, neighborhood revitalization and community building in the city of Houston. Houston Habitat has built more than 1,050 homes in 11 Houston neighborhoods, including the Fifth Ward and Northeast and Southeast quadrants. In addition to building, the organization has also repaired homes throughout Houston due to natural disasters; since Hurricane Harvey Houston Habitat has repaired more than 550 homes for families who are without resources to make repairs.

similarities that make our Customers, Communities and Partners so unique.

®

For more information on diversity at H-E-B, visit

www.heb.com

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©2008 H-E-B Food Stores

September 2020 | 7

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Houston Ranks11

8 | September 2020

BUSINESS

in 100 Best Cities in America By d-mars.com News Provider

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very big city across America has wrestled with the challenges brought by the global pandemic.

That is why Houston First is especially pleased to share that Houston is the top ranking Texas city, coming in at number 11 out of 100 cities across the country

by Resonance Consultancy, a strategic business marketing, development and research company.

This is the fifth year for the organization’s recently released rankings, which also factors in effects of COVID-19 on a city’s unemployment rate, income equality, and number of confirmed cases.

Considered to be one of the most comprehensive and respected ranking systems worldwide, Resonance Consultancy measures a number of standard factors including weather, crime, household incomes. However, taking it a step further, Resonance also analyzes data generated by people who engage with restaurants, shops, nightlife, museums and other experiences that make a city a great place to be. This data—all gathered pre-pandemic— incorporates Facebook check-ins, Instagram hashtags, TripAdvisor reviews, and Google searches and trends.

In its final report, Resonance describes Houston as one of the country’s most ethnically diverse cities with the fourth largest concentration of Fortune 500 companies

and restaurants. Also mentioned in Houston’s profile is its role in bringing the world one step closer to space tourism with the development of Houston Spaceport.

Resonance sums up Houston as the “smart, skilled and soulful, American city of the future.”

“It is good to be recognized in such a respected and thoughtful ranking system. We wholeheartedly agree, Houston is indeed

‘America’s city of the future.’ From medicine to space to energy, we are at the forefront of innovation. We are resilient problem-solvers who work together to find common solutions, no matter if we’re facing Hurricane Harvey or a global pandemic,” said David Mincberg, Board Chair, Houston First Corporation. “Houston continues to grow and get better, so we invite those who live here to rediscover our city and visitors to come as soon as it is safe and enjoy all that Houston has to offer.”

As the destination management organization for the city, Houston First is pleased to share these rankings and to know that despite the pandemic we are moving in the right direction with our efforts to position Houston as a world-class destination for leisure and business travelers.

To see the full report, including Resonance Consultancy’s methodology, go here.

About Houston First Houston First is the official destination management organization for the city of Houston.

In addition, Houston First owns the Hilton Americas- Houston hotel, manages the George R. Brown Convention Center along with 10 cityowned properties and developed the Avenida Houston entertainment district.

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Source: www.houstonfirst.com/

September 2020 | 9 COMMUNITY

BLACK EDUCATION MATTERS:

Children’s Book Lights the Path to College for Black Students By d-mars.com News Provider

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hat Is College? is an inspirational book by Henry Keculah about new friends BJ and Uche, two boys who explore the option of going to college when they get older. Through an enlightening conversation, Uche helps BJ learn the ins and outs of what it takes to get into college and the benefits of earning a degree. What Is College is a quick but informative read that helps parents and students in grades K-12 understand the basics around going to college.

Published by 4.0 GPA, What Is College? debuted as an Amazon best seller. It is an important body of work, particularly for African American children who, at times, are not afforded the same opportunities to advance their education as children of other ethnicities due to a lack of exposure.

Keculah says he wrote the book to underscore the value of higher education and to show children at a young age that they have options when it comes to their future.

As a former social studies teacher, Keculah saw up close the consequences of young people only seeing limited

choices about the path their lives could take.

"I had more students die or end up in prison than graduate from college," Keculah said. "Seeing the challenges I faced firsthand with college and career readiness, I wanted to create a book that would expose students to college as early as elementary school. I dedicated this book to my close friend from high school and college who passed away a few years ago."

In addition to becoming an author, Keculah is also the founder of 4.0 GPA, an award-winning education consulting company that works with school districts to help prepare students for higher education. Keculah was named one of the top 16 social entrepreneurs in the United States by BBVA Compass Bank. In addition to What Is College?, Keculah has also published the Hali Academy STEM Coloring Book for NFL legend Tamba Hali’s non-profit organization. It’s a paperback book filled with illustrations depicting various careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

What Is College? is illustrated by Lakeem Wilson and available for purchase on Amazon.com. For additional information or inquiries about What Is College?, contact 4.0 GPA at 281-247-0306.

EDUCATION & CAREER

Prepping for a Successful School Year By d-mars.com News Provider

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hether heading back to the classroom or back to a digital device this fall, it is important to be prepared. Get your children set up for academic success with the following resources and gear: • Comfortable workstation: A few considerations will improve ergonomics and comfort, for better focus when working at home. Consider a heightadjustable table or desk as well as an adjustable chair in order to accommodate your growing child’s needs. If possible, select an area for your child to work that gets plenty of natural light. A good desk lamp is also essential.

• Math tools: Did you know that there are free math resources available online that can help to alleviate the challenges posed by remote-learning? Check out Casio’s learning site, available at CasioEducation.com/remotelearning, which provides math activities, YouTube videos, an online calculator and downloadable resources. The brand also offers a variety of models of scientific and graphing calculators, providing students of all levels with the features they’ll need to make the grade.

• Headphones: With so many distractions that can derail a student’s attention, a good set of noise-canceling headphones can make all the difference.

• Music instruction: Give kids the tools they need to play music wherever and whenever they’d like.

With the ultra-compact LK-S250 keyboard, novices can easily learn to play

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favorite songs using the instrument’s Key Lighting system and library of built-in songs. By connecting to the free Chordana Play app, they can take lessons further by mastering favorite tunes from downloaded MIDI files. The class-compliant USB port connects to any Mac, PC, iOS or Android device with no drivers needed.

• Functional fashion: The best accessories also serve a purpose. Look for a watch that has a range of features that help students stay on task. Check out the Pro Trek line of watches. Its different alarm settings can be used to keep a schedule.

Be sure kids are equipped for a successful school year, no matter where or how their learning takes place.

10 | September 2020

Frenchy’s Chicken

Breaks Ground on New Flagship Scott St

BIG GROUP PHOTO FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Larry Freeman, Representative from the Office of Congresswoman Shelia Jackson Lee John Scroggins, Senior VP Community Development Lender, Allegiance Bank Angele Creuzot, Frenchy’s Chicken Sylvester Turner, Mayor City of Houston Sallie Creuzot, Frenchy’s Chicken Percy “ King” Creuzot, III, Frenchy’s Chicken Anthony Gaynor, Frenchy’s Chicken Percy “PC” Creuzot, IV, Frenchy’s Chicken Gerald Womack, Womack Development & Investment Realtors Ernest Hunter II, Frenchy’s Chicken John Creuzot, Dallas County District Attorney By d-mars.com News Provider

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rom its humble beginnings as a small po boy shop in Houston, Frenchy’s Chicken has now become a fried chicken empire, serving their secret family recipe that has been a hit since day one.

Percy Creuzot, a New Orleans native, came to Houston in 1965 as a traveling salesman, but he quickly realized food was his true passion. And in 1969, Frenchy’s was born.

“Fried chicken was just coming on the scene as a fast food item,” Percy “King” Creuzot, son of Percy Creuzot, said. “A friend of my dad’s talked him into jumping on the chicken train instead of doing po’boys. Our chicken quickly became very popular, and eventually he changed the name to Frenchy’s Chicken.”

The popularity of Frenchy’s is evident to anyone that sees the consistently long lines outside the restaurant. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many other businesses have struggled to stay afloat, those traffic stopping lines have remained steadfast.

After several decades of success at its original location on Scott Street, Frenchy’s has embarked on a new endeavor with plans to move to a brand new location in late 2020.

“We were approached by Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church about selling our original location to make room for their new sanctuary,” Creuzot said. “My partner, Anthony Gainer, and I decided we would not be the ones to stand in the way of God’s work. So, we sold them the land and have been working on the

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September 2020 | 11

treet Location

Keith “MR. D-MARS” Davis, Sr. Congratulations on the new location and your journey of more than 51 years of showing how a successful familyrun business operates and supports the community it calls home. Best wishes on the next 51 years of greatness! plans for our next step ever since.”

Frenchy’s new location will boast bigger and better amenities, including a larger facility with indoor and outdoor seating. The downstairs restaurant area will be 3,300 square feet, with an additional 2,200 square feet upstairs consisting of offices and conference rooms available for rent.

“This new location will be more spacious and give us a better flow for an efficient restaurant,” Creuzot said.

Despite the already impressive number of customers, Frenchy’s is expecting a boost in business at the new location. It will be directly across the street from the University of Houston’s football stadium, an area of heavy foot traffic and hungry Houston residents.

“We are excited about all the potential this new location holds for us,” Creuzot said.

As for what else is next for Frenchy’s, Creuzot “Traffic from the University said the opportunities are endless.

“Right now we are really focused on getting of Houston and the amount this new location up and running, but after that, we hope to look into expanding our of seating we will be able to reach even further across the Houston area with more locations,” Creuzot said. “We want offer are great opportunities for to bring our signature chicken and fast and friendly service to as many people as we can.” us to deliver even more fast and New Frenchy’s location is friendly service.”

3602 Scott Street

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Houston, TX 77004

12 | September 2020

4

EDUCATION & CAREER

ways to get ready for school no matter where you’re learning

top-notch Wi-Fi throughout the house, making any room a perfect classroom.

By d-mars.com News Provider

T

he new school year will look different for everyone this year, but whether students are gearing up for an in-person, online or hybrid learning experience, the right school supplies can help keep them motivated and productive all year long.

Now more than ever, teachers and parents are heading online to prepare for the school year. In fact, according to the National Retail Federation, online school supply shopping is on the rise, with more than half (55%) of K-12 shoppers planning to buy their supplies online this year. If you're setting up an at-home learning space or preparing for a safe return to the classroom, online stores like Amazon make it easy to get everything you need.

Here are some tips on how you can prepare for the new school year:

1

Stock up on essentials Start the year off fresh and organized with a new planner, an ample supply of notebooks and fun, colorful folders. A mesh desk organizer will help your kids stay organized so they never misplace their pens and pencils (or their homework). Sparkle Mechanical Pencils will have them feeling stylish and eliminate pencil shavings - which is especially helpful if your kitchen is doubling as your classroom this year.

For younger students, stock up on crayons, markers and colored pencils, to give them a chance to unleash their creative side. Amazon's Ready for School store offers low prices on these essentials and more, all shipped safely to your door.

Additionally, if the kids are at home all day, you may need to load up on more snacks this year. Try something that comes in single-portion servings for an easy snack that won't leave a mess in the kitchen.

3

Upgrade your tech A whopping 40% of parents are looking to invest in digital resources to supplement school education, according to the 2020 Deloitte back-to-school survey.

Whether it's full-time, part-time or supplemental, digital learning is an important part of education. Start by checking out Amazon's digital education center, which includes educational content and workbooks for students.

Or with the All-new Fire HD 8 Kids

Edition Tablet, students and parents can research and download educational apps to supplement school in a fun and engaging way. The device comes with a kid-proof case to protect from drops and bumps and has a built-in stand for hands-free use. Finally, remember to manage screen time by setting rules for usage and providing children with Kids Blue Light Blocking Glasses to protect developing eyes from harsh light.

4

2

Set up an at-home learning space An organized and productive learning space can help keep students motivated while learning from home. With Amazon's Educator Shop, teachers - and parents-turned-teachers - can easily find everything they need to set up their learning space.

Upgrade your student's setup with a desk, a comfortable chair and a printer like the all-in one HP printer, to start.

Add a cool lamp to help brighten up their space or a fun desk accessory, like a plant to add some color and life. Finally, boost connectivity with routers such as this eero router to ensure you have

Set up healthy routines Getting out of "summer mode," especially this year, can make sticking to a routine difficult. With the start of the new school year fast approaching, start easing back into healthy routines now by setting earlier alarms or having family reading time in the evening.

As the school year gets going, make quick, healthy lunches extra fun by packing things ahead of time in colorful, reusable lunch containers like these Bento boxes. And don't forget hydration - keeping a durable water bottle with your kids whether they're at home or school is important. The Contigo Water Bottle is perfect for keeping kids hydrated and provides water in a personal, sanitary container that won't leak. But if your kids are spending their days learning from the kitchen table, don't forget to take breaks throughout the day. Just taking a few breaks during the day to stretch or go for a walk can keep your family moving and active!

Find all of your school-year essentials and more at amazon. com/readyforschool.

Source: BPT

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September 2020 | 13 June 2020 | 13

FREE

® ®

HEALTH & WELLNESS JOURNAL

BIOTECH | BUSINESS | CAREER | EDUCATION | HEALTHY LIFESTYLES | MEDICAL | MENTAL HEALTH | POLICY | RESEARCH | SPORTS MEDICINE

September 2020

|

Inspire, Inform & Educate

|

98th Edition

Protecting Your

Eyesight

Against The Silent Advance Of Glaucoma 14

INSIDE

16

How to care for your eyes while working from home

20

How to help your children cope with the pandemic Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

18

5 Common Questions About Life Insurance

14  |  September 2020

Protecting your eyesight against the silent advance of glaucoma HEALTH

By d-mars.com News Provider

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ill I go blind?" It's a frightening thought that most people have when they are first told they have glaucoma.

"Patients are almost always concerned that they are going to lose their vision," says Andrew Iwach, M.D., executive director of the Glaucoma Center of San Francisco. "The good news for the majority of patients is that we can maintain their vision with treatment."

The sneak thief of sight Glaucoma, an eye disease that damages the optic nerve, is the leading cause of irreversible blindness. Currently, it affects more than three million people in the United States.

The National Eye Institute projects this number will rise by 58% over the next decade to 4.2 million people.

The most common form of the disease is open-angle glaucoma, which affects 90% of patients and occurs when the eye's drainage canals become clogged over time, according to the Glaucoma Research Foundation.

Open-angle glaucoma has been called "the sneak thief of sight" because it strikes without symptoms. In fact, experts estimate that half of the patients who have glaucoma don't know it. As much as 40% of vision can be lost without a person noticing. And once that eyesight is lost, it's permanently gone.

"I didn't have any symptoms prior to diagnosis," says

Richie Kahn, 34, who was diagnosed in March 2019. "By then, glaucoma had already stolen part of my vision. I was surprised to learn that my brain was actually compensating for my vision loss by filling in the blanks."

Hope through treatment Since glaucoma has no symptoms in its early stages and progresses slowly over many years, eye doctors emphasize the importance of regular eye exams t o detect the disease before there's a significant loss of vision.

The target for glaucoma therapy is to lower intraocular pressure (IOP). High IOP causes damage to the optic nerve, which produces vision loss in the disease. Approaches to lowering IOP include a wide range of eye drop medications, laser treatments that are performed in a doctor's office, and several types of incisional surgery.

Trinh Green, M.D., has lived with glaucoma for 24 years after being diagnosed at age 21. Like Richie, she had no symptoms of the disease, so news of her diagnosis came as a total surprise. Her advice to others is to remain calm and stay optimistic throughout their care and treatment.

"I think it's very important for people to stay calm after learning they have glaucoma," says Trinh. "There are many more treatments available in the last few years. I also owe so much to Dr. Iwach. He's a very calming presence.

Whenever there was a setback and the disease progressed, he would tell me, 'I have a few more tricks up my sleeve.'"

The power of knowledge In addition to early detection and treatment, Dr. Iwach emphasizes the importance of patients learning everything they can about glaucoma.

"Getting the facts, including risk factors and treatment options, can empower patients to improve their outcomes and reduce their fears," he says.

Dr. Iwach encourages all his patients to read "Understanding and Living with Glaucoma," published by the Glaucoma Research Foundation. The free booklet, updated and newly illustrated, offers a comprehensive introduction to glaucoma and guidance about how patients can work with their doctors to manage the disease.

Glaucoma patients like Richie found power in knowledge in their fight against glaucoma.

"Everyone's journey will be different and you have to be willing to advocate for yourself," says Richie. "I learned a lot from the Glaucoma Research Foundation. Staying informed about my particular situation allows me to be an active member of my own care team, doing my part to preserve my vision."

A free copy of "Understanding and Living with Glaucoma" can be downloaded or ordered at www.glaucoma.org/ booklet.

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Source: BPT

September 2020 | 15

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16 | September 2020 HEALTH

How to care for your while working from home

eyes By d-mars.com News Provider

I

f you are one of the many people now working or attending school from home, you know that there are many challenges involved. One of the major changes to your life may be how much time you're now spending staring at a screen for hours at a time.

If you're feeling the effects of increased eye discomfort and/or eye dryness, you're not alone. The impact of those additional hours on your computer or tablet - at the same time allergy season is kicking into high gear - can take its toll on your eyes.

Optometrist Dr. Whitney Hauser, OD, FAAO explains that eye dryness can be caused by many different factors, and that sometimes more than one factor can be affecting someone's eyes at the same time.

Causes for eye dryness include:

• Medications you may be taking • Aging • Ophthalmic surgery • Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), which especially affects postmenopausal women • Contact lens wear

• Allergies • Environmental factors like air dryness • Use of digital devices

"It's important to note that all eye dryness is not the same," says Hauser, "and establishing the specific type of eye dryness a person has is important for creating a customized treatment plan."

She recommends identifying what factors may be exacerbating your eye discomfort by trying some of the strategies below.

How can you help relieve the discomfort and dryness your eyes are experiencing?

Takefrequent frequentbreaks breaksfrom 1. 1. Take from screens screens Take periodic breaks not just to look away from the screen or shut your eyes briefly to rest them, but to actually get up and walk around, looking at objects at different distances and directions to relieve eye strain. Set a timer on your phone or computer to remind yourself to take breaks every 15 to 20 minutes.

2. Blink Blinkfrequently frequently 2.

Even more regularly, remind yourself to blink slowly and gently. Blinking throughout the day helps to keep your eyes moisturized.

Close your eyes gently a few times in a row as often as you can, to help keep your eyes from getting too dried out as you stare at your computer screen.

2. Blink 3.

Keep the air frequently clean Change your HVAC filter frequently to help reduce potential allergens in your home.

Consider also using an indoor air filter in the room where you work, especially if you know that you suffer from allergies.

4. Try Tryartificial artificialtears tears 4.

Use lubricating eye drops to help relieve temporary eye dryness, irritation and discomfort. For over-the-counter artificial tears to help improve the symptoms of eye dryness, with low incidence of blurring with each use, choose from Allergan's family

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of Refresh Relieva lubricant eye drops to help protect and care for your eyes: Refresh Relieva, Refresh Relieva PF preservative-free multidose or Refresh Relieva for Contacts.

"Refresh Relieva works well for many patients because it comes in both a multidose preservative-free version as well one specifically for contact lens wearers," says Hauser.

5. Avoid Avoidrubbing rubbing 5.

While you may be tempted to rub your tired eyes for temporary relief, rubbing can actually irritate your eyes in the long run.

Instead of rubbing your eyes when they feel itchy or discomfort, reach for artificial tears or eye drops to help provide relief from your symptoms.

Be sure to contact your health care provider or eye doctor if you experience eye pain or discomfort that does not go away using these tips, as it can be a sign of a more serious issue.

For information about products to relieve your eye discomfort or irritation, visit Refreshbrand.com.

Dr. Hauser is a paid Allergan consultant.

Source: BPT

September 2020 | 17

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5

18 | September 2020 HEALTH

Common

Questions About Life Insurance

By d-mars.com News Provider

C

OVID-19 has significantly impacted our lives in many ways.

It has even led some people to start reconsidering the importance of life insurance to protect loved ones who would be left behind should something happen.

“If you’re researching life insurance for the first time, don’t be surprised if you find it intimidating and confusing. Life insurance can be complex, and everyone’s needs are different -- there is no one-sizefits-all,” says Louis Colaizzo, senior vice president of Erie Family Life. “The best advice is to talk with your insurance agent who can walk you through how the various coverages work and help you determine the type and amount that’s right for you and your family.”

themeantime, meantime,here hereare are InInthe answers to five of the most answers to five of the most commonquestions questionspeople peoplehave common have about life insurance from about life insurance from Erie Erie Insurance: Insurance:

that’s usually when people think about life insurance. Life insurance can provide peace of mind and ensure your loved ones are able to handle not only final expenses, but also pay off debts, such as credit cards and even a mortgage.

3. How much does life insurance cost?

The cost will vary based on the type and amount you purchase, but it is often much more affordable than many people think. Depending on the type of policy and amount of coverage, a policy can cost less than $15 per month.

4. Is it taxable? Most of the time the death benefit from a life insurance policy is not taxable for beneficiaries, which is one of its advantages when it is part of an overall financial plan.

5. What’s the difference between term and whole life insurance? Term provides coverage for a specific number of years and is generally the most affordable option. For example, some people may buy a term life insurance policy so it’s in effect just long enough to pay off a mortgage or cover a child’s college tuition costs, but later it is no longer needed.

Whole life insurance is designed to last a lifetime and builds cash value.

“Now that you have some basic information under your belt, a next step is to have a deeper discussion with your insurance agent to find out whether you need life insurance and if so, what type and how much,” says Colaizzo. “When it comes to life insurance, the only wrong choice is doing nothing at all.”

1. Can you get life insurance during the pandemic? Most healthy people can still purchase coverage but there may be a different process, as insurance companies are making changes to provide quotes while maintaining social distancing. Others may offer insurance that doesn’t require a medical exam.

For example, Erie Insurance offers a policy called ERIExpress Life that was designed to serve people who may have thought the process was too lengthy or complicated. It offers affordable life insurance in as little as a few minutes with a simple application and no physical exam.

2. Why is life insurance important?

Maybe you just got married, had your first child, bought a house or are thinking about put ting a child through college.

Whatever major life change is happening,

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September 2020 | 19

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20  |  September 2020 HEALTH

How to help your children cope with the pandemic By d-mars.com News Provider

B

y Dr. Bela Sood, MD, child and adolescent psychiatrist and senior mental health policy professor at Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU. This pandemic is unlike anything we've ever experienced, so how can we help our children cope, especially when we're also feeling anxious? The key lies in acknowledging our own fears and concerns, while understanding how each individual child handles emotional challenges.

Parenting is hard. Parenting during a pandemic can feel especially challenging as you balance changes in work, home and school. Here's how you can provide support and reassurance, whatever your child's stage of development.

Startwith withyourself yourself Start Even infants pick up on their parents' moods, so your emotional state will affect how your children cope.

As instructed on airplanes, during turbulence you should put on your own oxygen mask before helping others. The same is true of turbulent times: Take care of yourself first.

Reflect on how you feel: Are you angry about disrupted routines? Worried about the future? Missing loved ones? When you're stressed, practice self-care: Exercise, meditate or talk with a friend. This will help you feel more "centered" so you can model calm, positive attitudes and behavior.

Limitmedia mediaexposure exposure Limit It's easy to become overwhelmed by negative news. Stay with your children during news reports and encourage them to ask questions. Limit your own exposure too, as it can affect your mood.

Consideryour yourchild's child‘sstage of Consider stage of development development Babies and toddlers won't understand what's happening, but they respond to emotional cues. Though it's not always easy, if you can stay calm and positive, they're more likely to relax.

Maintain routines, as all children thrive on predictable schedules. Knowing when to expect meals, playtime and bedtime helps them feel more safe and secure.

Preschoolers have many questions about everything, but keep your explanations simple. Discuss the virus as being like a very bad cold or flu when explaining why everyone is wearing masks or why they can't go on play dates.

Validate your child's feelings by saying, "I understand you're upset right now," or "It's okay to miss grandma. I miss her too."

Let your children connect with others safely. Make video calls to relatives or socialize with a small group of neighbors outdoors while practicing social distancing.

Help your child write letters to friends.

School-aged children are more

peer-oriented, but they still appreciate spending time with parents. It's a great opportunity to start new hobbies together, while also letting them pursue their own interests.

If your children appear anxious, angry or sad, encourage them to talk about it.

Share how you're feeling, too. Establish a weekly "check-in" dinner where everyone has a turn to express their feelings.

Include children in chores and activities that give them a feeling of control. Let them assume responsibilities like folding laundry or cleaning, offering choices about what activities they prefer.

Teenagers are beginning to separate psychologically from their parents, so being forced to be together all day can be tough on them, as well as on parents! Older teens are missing out on significant milestones, like homecoming, sports or performing arts, which may be important parts of their identities.

Put yourself in your teen's shoes. This period is hardest for teens who derive energy from peer interactions. Show empathy by saying, "This must be so disappointing for you." Help them find creative ways to make this time memorable and connect with peers who practice social distancing.

The weekly family dinner may be the perfect time to listen to your teen and problem-solve together.

Warningsigns signs Warning It's normal for kids to occasionally seem sad, anxious or angry. Encourage them to voice their feelings and acknowledge that it's okay for them to feel that way.

If your child becomes increasingly withdrawn, disconnected or obsessed with video games or other self-isolating activities, it may be a signal that they're preoccupied with worries about the future or other topics. Try drawing them out to determine whether you should seek their pediatrician's advice. It's challenging to keep children entertained at home 24/7, so don't be too hard on yourself. Offer additional social support from close friends and relatives.

If you think it would help them to get counseling and they're reluctant, tell them that when you're in trouble, you seek help.

Let them choose whether to participate or not. If your child is unwilling to talk to a counselor, you may find it helpful to see a therapist to share observations of your child, get a better understanding of what may be happening and develop strategies to support them.

For the latest on COVID-19 and resources to support your family's mental health, visit chrichmond.org/covid-resources.

Source: BPT

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September 2020 | 21

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22 | September 2020

How do you prepare for the future when life is so uncertain now?

By d-mars.com News Provider

A

s the ongoing coronavirus pandemic continues to present health and economic challenges, it is difficult to focus on anything other than the present. It's important, though, not to lose sight of the years ahead and to take steps that can put you in a better position when we emerge on the other side.

The youngest baby boomers - the generation born between 1944 and 1964 - turned 55 last year. This, coupled with the uncertain job picture, means many of us are thinking more seriously about what we will need to successfully retire.

In the past, the years leading up to retirement have been a time of hope and optimism. We've looked forward to fulfilling our dreams of doing the things we might have missed while working, such as dedicating more time to family and friends, checking items off a bucket list, or even pursuing a meaningful second career.

However, many of the traditional assumptions about this phase of life have been challenged over the past decade, including the idea that we'll retire at 65. In fact, MetLife's Evolving Retirement Model Study found nearly one in 10 workers (9%) never expect to retire. Many of us are choosing to continue working and, in light of the current situation, some who have already retired, especially

FINANCE

those in health care, are even being asked to return to work.

What's behind this change? It turns out that it's more than just the current market volatility. Perhaps one of the most significant reasons is the decline in companyfinanced pensions. Many companies have shifted from defined benefit, or pension, plans, which promise retirees a monthly income benefit for life, to defined contribution (DC) plans. DC plans, such as 401(k)s, are the main source of retirement savings for most workers.

While employers often make contributions to these plans, workers are primarily responsible for their retirement security. With this in mind, there are three key steps you can take now to prepare for the years after you finish working regardless of whether that day is decades away or just over the horizon.

Createaaplan plantotoeliminate eliminatedebt. debt.

1.1.Create Whether you carry a balance on a credit card, have student loans or a mortgage, start paying off your debts now. Reducing your monthly expenses not only allows you to save more for retirement, but also gives you more flexibility with how you spend money after you stop working.

2.2.Make Makeretirement retirementsavings savingsautomatic, automatic,and and don't don‘tmiss missout outon on"free „freemoney." money.“

Many employers offer a retirement savings plan, such as a 401(k), to their employees. The sooner you begin saving, the sooner your savings can begin to build up over time. Help your nest egg grow even faster by contributing enough to take full advantage of any matching

contributions your employer offers. For example, your company might match 100% of your contribution, up to 6% of your salary. In other words, if you earn $50,000 a year and save at least $3,000, your company will match that amount by contributing $3,000 to your retirement as well.

Understandhow howyour yourretirement retirementsavings savings 3.3.Understand translatesinto intoincome. income. translates Take the time during your working years to understand how much income you might receive in retirement based on your retirement savings. The U.S. Department of Labor offers a simple retirement income projection tool that can help you get started. If you see that projections are falling short of where you think you might need them to be, consider filling the gap by increasing the amount you are saving. Additionally, if you are over the age of 50, you can make catch-up contributions to your 401(k) or individual retirement account.

MetLife's Study also asked workers and retirees the age of the oldest person they know. On average, that person is almost 85 years old, and 45% of survey participants believe they'll live that long too. Many of us can, therefore, expect to live 20 years - or more - in retirement, and we'll need our savings to last. The question is: Will we be able to enjoy a comfortable and secure retirement, especially during periods of market turmoil like we are experiencing now?

Having a predictable income can make a big difference and fortunately relief may be in sight. While many employers don't yet offer guaranteed retirement income options in their 401(k) plans, a new law passed at the end of 2019 could change this. That's good news, considering that 95% of workers and retirees say it's important for retirees to have a source of guaranteed retirement income they cannot outlive.

MetLife's Study was conducted online with 1,518 U.S. adults ages 33-75 who are either employed full time or retired and have access to a defined benefit or defined contribution plan through their current employer or the employer from which they retired. Data were weighted, where necessary, to align with actual population proportions. The Study was conducted by The Harris Poll between Aug. 19 and Sept. 6, 2019.

Source: BPT

FINANCE

Tips for Handling Your Finances During a Crisis By d-mars.com News Provider

W

ith record numbers of Americans filing for unemployment and many facing income loss, the financial impacts of COVID-19 are far-reaching.

“Times of financial crisis can be overwhelming,” says head of Wells Fargo & Company’s Innovation Group, Lisa Frazier, who learned this lesson at a young age when her family struggled to make ends meet on the farm. “But you don’t need to navigate these waters alone.

Numerous resources are available, so don’t be afraid to ask for help.”

Toget getaahandle handleon onyour yourfinances, To finances, consider tips consider these tips these and resources and resources from Frazier from Frazier and the expertsand at the experts Wells Fargo: at Wells Fargo: 1. Guard against fraud. The Federal Trade Commission and other agencies have warned consumers to watch out

for scammers exploiting the crisis. Be suspicious of messages claiming to be from creditors, employers or charities you do not recognize. Don’t respond to these emails or phone calls directly.

Only contact phone numbers or email addresses you know are accurate, like the contact information on a creditor’s or charity’s website.

2. Bank online. As banks and retailers adjust in-person services and hours, consider managing finances online or through mobile banking. With most digital tools, you can easily check account balances, pay bills and make transfers. Consider direct deposit of your tax refund this year, which is faster than a paper check. Digital banking may also allow you to more easily send money to family in need or to receive funds from people who may be in a position to ease your financial burden.

3. Know your credit score. Many banks and other services allow you to access your credit score online. Take advantage of this feature to ensure the information is accurate and look for areas

where you can improve. A financial coach can help you understand which money decisions will impact your score and how to preserve it as best as possible.

4. Use credit wisely. If you need to carry balances or borrow more, make a list of your current credit sources, including current balances, credit limits and annual percentage rates (APRs). Note the end date of any zero percent introductory offers.

If your credit is good, consider requesting higher credit limits, which can soften the impact of higher-than-usual balances on your credit score and reinforce your safety net.

5. Seek free expert help. Feeling uncertain about which bills to pay first?

Struggling to pay rent and other household needs? There is help available.

A financial coach can help you tap government benefits and other resources and get on track. This is why the Wells Fargo Foundation is supporting the following nonprofits that provide free, confidential financial coaching over the phone and online to anyone facing financial hardships:

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• Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education: Sign up to meet with a certified-financial coach at yellowribbonnetwork.org/afcpecovid19.

• National Disability Institute: Visit the Financial Resilience Center at NationalDisabilityInstitute.org/financialresilience-center for accessible financial health resources and to connect with a certified-financial coach with disabilityrelated experience.

• National Foundation for Credit Counseling: Call 1-844-865-1971 or visit nfcc.org/locator to connect with a financial counselor for assistance with managing creditors or debt.

• Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund: Visit fecpublic.org/about for a list of locations in cities across the U.S. offering virtual financial counseling as a free public service.

As you take steps to protect your health, be sure to also take steps to protect your finances.

Source: StatePoint

September 2020 | 23

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24 | September 2020 PRESS RELEASE

Top 30 Influential Woman of Houston

Ige Johnson

Awarded Membership in RE/MAX Hall of Fame

By d-mars.com News Provider

C

ongratulations to our 2017 Top 30 Influential Women honoree, Ige Johnson, owner of RE/ MAX® Generation in Humble, TX, for her incredible achievement of gaining membership in the exclusive RE/MAX® Hall of Fame for earning more than $1 million in commissions during the course of her career with the top real estate franchise.

The prestigious Hall of Fame award celebrates the most exceptional sales professionals during their careers with RE/MAX®. Johnson’s real estate sales have exceeded $30,000,000 to over 200 clients since RE/ MAX® Generation was established. She was formally acknowledged during the 2017 RE/MAX® of Texas

State Convention as RE/MAX® of Texas Rookie Franchise Office of the Year for being one of the fastest growing offices in the State of Texas.

With more than 15 years of experience in the real estate industry, Johnson ascribes her success to her core values: delivering high-quality client experience through integrity, professionalism, and a result-driven approach.

Among Johnson’s achievements with RE/MAX® are: Platinum Club Team 2017, 2018, and 2019 and RE/ MAX® Top 500 in the State of Texas.

Outside of the franchise, Johnson has also been recognized as one of Houston’s Top 30 Influential Women 2017, 20 Under 40 Rising Stars in Real Estate 2017, Expertise’s Best Real Estate Agents in Houston 2019, and Houston Agent Magazine Who’s Who in Residential Real Estate 2020.

“I have worked with Ige for years and watched her grow into this amazing leader. Ultimately, it all boils down to hard work! Her work ethic is phenomenal and there is no task too large or small. Her efforts are never marginal; yet, she performs on an exceptional level," said Toyia Chenevert-Henderson, a realtor for RE/MAX®Generation.

Aside from being a real estate broker and owner of

RE/MAX® Generation, Johnson is also the owner of several small businesses including: Dynasty Partners, Glo Beauty Bar & Suites, and The Crown Kollection.

Johnson is also a firm advocate of gender and racial equality and provides opportunities for women of all races to succeed. She proudly leads The Ige Johnson Group, a team of high-achieving women in real estate.

She also provides business and life coaching for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Ige Johnson’s office at RE/MAX® Generation is located at 8650 N. Sam Houston Pkwy E. Humble, TX. You can reach her by visiting www.igejohnson.com.

About RE/MAX Generation: RE/MAX Generation is a locally owned and operated full-service real estate brokerage. Founded in 2016, the brokerage has 35 Realtors® and is located at 8650 N. Sam Houston Pkwy E. Humble, TX. To learn more, please visit www.remaxgeneration.com.

For more information, contact:

Ige Johnson, Broker/Owner RE/MAX Generation Email: igejohnson.ads@gmail.com Website: www.igejohnson.com

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September 2020 | 25

TH E

E X P E R T

N E TW O R K

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26  |  September 2020

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28 | September 2020 TECHNOLOGY

Creating connections in a high-tech world:

3 tips to improve customer service By d-mars.com News Provider

I

n customer service, as in many other areas of life, as technology becomes more sophisticated, relationships get more complex. While technology makes it easier for customers to interact with businesses, an action as simple as finding an auto repair shop can quickly overwhelm consumers with multiple channels, opinions, advertisers and behind-the-scenes engagement systems.

What was once a straightforward sales and marketing funnel has become a cycle, with customers consistently in the evaluation stage and customer service reps having to convince current customers over and over of the value they're providing. Customers expect excellent, fast and personalized service when interacting with businesses, and that puts a lot of pressure on your customer experience team.

"In a world that has become increasingly technology-focused - even more so as a result of the massive move to working from home during the pandemic - the personal, human touch is so valuable for companies seeking to make important connections with their customers and partners," said Kate Winkler,

CEO of Ruby, a premier provider of live virtual receptionist and chat services for small businesses. "Every phone call or website visit is crucial to the survival of a business, so the demands on customer support teams have increased exponentially."

To help you succeed and grow in today's business environment, here are a few best practices you can implement to build loyalty and win new business.

1.

Invest in your customer service infrastructure.

It's essential to serve your customers where they are, not where they used to be, which means investing in a multichannel (or omnichannel) strategy:

• In-store presence (if applicable) • Live call answering rather than a directory or voicemail only • Website chat to interact with customers looking for information in real time • Social media support and proactive updates about your business

Even if your business isn't a 24-hour operation, some form of customer support may need to be available 24/7, 365 days a year. Recent developments have redefined the "typical workday," as more customers are doing business during the evenings and weekends. For many companies, it isn't feasible or cost-effective to manage this expanded support in-house, so outsourced communication solutions such as a virtual receptionist service can ensure the needs of your customers and prospective customers are met.

2.

2. Train team members in active listening.

Handling customer concerns is more than providing solutions - it's making sure customers feel heard. Being present in customer conversations is key to showing you care. Never assume you know what a customer

wants or needs, even if you've heard the problem 100 times. Practice active listening by offering small verbal cues ("yep," "that's right," "mm-hmm"), taking notes, reiterating what you've heard, and responding in ways that indicate you've been paying close attention. It's an art, but one that's easy to master.

3.

3. Encourage personalized customer interactions.

To build trust with your customers, focus on creating and nurturing relationships. Companies that prioritize customer interactions and provide access to valuable resources and information are more likely to weather economic stress and even thrive through word-of-mouth referrals. A few suggestions: • Use the customer's name • Establish a customer response goal (e.g., all calls/ emails/messages responded to within 24 hours) • Send communications that are not issue- or sales-related, such as interesting articles relevant to the customer's business, or congratulations on a recent office move • Celebrate important milestones such as birthdays, marriages, births, etc.

Alongside (and in some cases in place of) sales and marketing efforts, investing in your customer experience can have a dramatic effect on customer acquisition and retention. Small businesses without a dedicated support team should consider investing in tools and services - like virtual receptionists and live chat - that can provide a professional, compassionate voice focused on delivering a consistent experience that will make your business stand out from the competition.

Source: BPT

TECHNOLOGY

7 ways technology can help you make the most of your summer By d-mars.com News Provider

W

ith summer upon us and travel plans likely on hold, it's time to figure out what's on your family's summer bucket list. Whether it's learning a new language, reading one book a week or exploring your culinary skills, there are many different ways a smart home with Amazon Alexa can make this summer your best one yet. From enabling Skills to setting up Routines, here are seven different ways Amazon Devices and Alexa can help:

1.1.Rise Riseand andshine shine Although many of us think of summer as the time to sleep in, try setting a consistent routine this season. Start the day off right by setting a Routine through your Alexa app. Alexa can wake you at the same time each day with a friendly "good morning," play your favorite song or even turn on your bedside lamp with an Amazon Smart Plug.

2.2.Practice Practiceself-care self-care Make yourself a priority this summer.

Whether that includes working out, doing yoga, or taking a moment to slow down and meditate, Alexa can help you stay on track.

With the Fire TV Stick 4K, ask Alexa to start a 7-minute workout for a quick sweat or open your favorite workout with the Peloton app.

3.3.Get Getwork workdone done A productive work environment can help increase your daily performance. Upgrade your home Wi-Fi with an eero mesh wi-fi router for reliable signal and an Echo Dot to stay on top of tasks with your calendar and to-do lists. In addition to being able to control your schedule, you also have full control over your voice recordings and more with Alexa. Alexa and Echo devices are built with multiple layers of privacy - from microphone and camera controls to the ability to review and delete your voice recordings. It's easy to manage your recordings by simply saying, "Alexa, delete what I just said" or "Alexa, delete everything I said today." You can also use the Alexa app or Alexa Privacy

Settings for full control over your voice recordings and more.

4.4.Learn Learnnew newskills skills Take this summer to expand your k nowledge and learn new skills. With Amazon Devices, you can start learning a new language with the Rosetta Stone skill or read new books with the Fire HD 8 Tablet or Kindle Paperwhite. Learn new skills in the kitchen by trying recipes with the Food Network Kitchen skill on the Echo Show.

5.5.Plan Planfor forthe theweek week Staying organized will help keep your summer stress-free. Easily plan your week by asking Alexa to create a to-do list and set reminders for important tasks. With Alexa Voice Shopping, you can easily order items such as paper towels or a new set of grilling tools for your weekend backyard barbecue.

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6.6.Spend and Spendtime timewith withfamily family friends and friends While you may not physically be with friends and family, it's easy to stay in touch with the Echo Show. For extra face to face time, enable Drop-In and ask Alexa to connect you with your contacts directly.

Winddown downfor forthe theday day 7.7.Wind When it's time to wind down, use the Fire TV Cube to watch your favorite shows or movies on streaming platforms like Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu and Disney+. You can also set up a "Good Night" Routine that uses your smart lights to automatically dim brightness to 50% and play relaxing music to quiet your mind.

These devices make it easier to stick to a routine this summer that works for both you and your family. Taking a few minutes to set up a Routine will save you time down the road - and make home life simpler and smarter. Discover everything Alexa and Amazon Devices can do for you at Amazon.com/devices.

Source: BPT

September 2020 | 29

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30 | September 2020 TRAVEL

simple tips to travel responsibly in 2020 By d-mars.com News Provider

T

housands of families put travel plans on hold due to COVID-19. As the travel industry is reopening and favorite tourist spots are welcoming guests, people are making vacation plans that keep safety and responsibility top of mind.

If you're ready to travel again, it's important to remain diligent so you can enjoy favorite destinations while prioritizing important health measures. This not only helps protect you and your family, but everyone else - from the workers to the residents to fellow travelers. Here are some tips for traveling responsibly:

Wear Wearaamask maskwhen whenininpublic public The CDC continues to recommend all people over the age of 2 to wear a mask in public spaces and many municipalities, including in the Myrtle Beach area, are mandating masks in shared spaces. When packing your bags, be sure to pack a box of disposable masks or place designated masks in a bag labeled with each person's name. You might even make the vacation special by getting custom fabric masks made rather than traditional matching T-shirts this year.

least 20 seconds is best, but if that's not an option, pack plenty of hand sanitizer.

Practice Practicesocial socialdistancing distancing Practice social distancing by staying 6 feet away from others not in your family or travel group. Many public spaces will have signage to remind you of this as well as floor markers. Remember, this applies to everywhere you go, including the beach.

Visit Visitoutdoor outdoorparks parks Expansive parks and outdoor spaces make it easy to stay socially distant and therefore typically do not require masks. Add these options to your travel itinerary. For example, Myrtle Beach State Park in South Carolina is a quiet escape where social distancing is easy, with a nature trail, stunning ocean views and a great fishing spot on Myrtle Beach pier.

Respect Respectone-way one-waywalking walkingpaths paths Many locations have implemented one-way paths to better organize visitor flow and limit the spread of germs. Respect these requests when traveling. Brookgreen Gardens is one such location that is welcoming visitors but asks people follow one-way paths while exploring more than 900 works by 300 of the greatest

Wash Washhands handsfrequently frequently Hand washing helps remove and prevent the spread of germs. When traveling, wash hands regularly, especially after touching public surfaces such as at a store or museum. Remember, always wash hands before you eat. Washing with soap and water for at

names in American sculpture history.

Keepititsmall small Keep Individual or small group tours are great for enjoying time together safely. In Myrtle Beach, Black River Outdoors offers private, eco-friendly kayak tours where visitors can learn about the salt marsh ecosystem and the plants and creatures who inhabit it. Another option is Action Water Sportz, which provides jet ski rentals to satisfy your drive for aquatic adventure.

Explorethoughtful thoughtfuldining diningoptions options Explore Restaurants across the Grand Strand are all practicing safe social distancing guidelines. Dining al fresco is a smart option, and with oceanfront views at restaurants Sea Captain's House, Drunken Jacks or RipTydz you'll enjoy a fresh breeze and tasty foods. Ask about precautions indoor restaurants are taking as well. For instance, Benjamin's Calabash Seafood requires guests to wear gloves while at the buffet and masks throughout the restaurant except while eating at your table.

Prepareand andpack packpatience patience Prepare Many things are different due to COVID-19 and it requires everyone to work together. Keep in mind, some attractions and restaurants have limited seating or entry availability. Plan ahead when possible and always be patient. Research location-specific sites like visitmyrtlebeach.com or individual hotel and attraction websites to determine what is open and what safety procedures are in place.

Practice social distancing by staying 6' away from others. This applies to everywhere you go, including the beach.

KEEP THE ARTS ALIVE IN HOUSTON For almost five decades, Bayou City Art Festival has helped thousands of Houstonians create fond memories. In an effort to continue our mission, we are launching a fundraising campaign in partnership with the City of Houston to support the arts and our local nonprofit partners. Individuals and corporations can ensure the Bayou City Art

TO DONATE TEXT “SAVEOURART” TO 243725 or visit www.bayoucityartfestival.com BAYOU CITY ART VIRTUAL EXPERIENCE OCTOBER 5TH - 11TH

Festival’s return to Memorial Park and Downtown Houston and it’s programming in the community by committing to donate and by participating in the many upcoming fundraising events.

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September 2020 | 31

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