Business Journal 159

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BUSINESS JOURNAL

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

November 2020

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Inspire, Inform & Educate

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159th Edition

Quality Is Always in Style at Quality Barber College Left to right: Owners, Monica Freeman and Niki Smith-Scott

12, 21

INSIDE

06

Texas Southern University Announced All-Star Lineup of Radio Personalities at The Vibe, Powered

by KTSU 90.9FM

08

The Greater Houston Black Chamber Hosted the Coveted Pinnacle and Upstart Awards at the 26th Annual Celebration of Black Business Excellence

28

5 Ways to Strengthen Your Financial Protection Plan

November 2020 | 3

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

MR. D-MARS CERTIFIED:

HMSDC

shining example of partnerships is Niki Smith-Scott and Monica Freeman, d-mars.com is proud to continue our partnership with the community, co-owners of Quality Barber College. Standing on their slogan “Where publishing positive content and success stories promoting the advancement quality is always in style,” this college brings high-quality training of our African American businesses and civic and community leaders. necessary to be competitive in the industry as a licensed barber. Scott and Have you truly leveraged your business relationships? There are many Freeman built this institution on a firm foundation entrepreneurs and business owners in your of “quality” in every sense of the word. And with circle, so are you forming partnerships with Scott and Freeman having a proven track record these individuals? Let me remind you that in entrepreneurship, there is an extension to the you cannot do anything alone. Partnerships “One man can be a crucial are part of the power that helps to build ingredient on a team, but one educational experience, affording students knowledge on business ownership, finance, and running day-toand advance our communities. To help man cannot make a team.” day operations. Together, these two entrepreneurs you achieve this type of growth, then your founded a barber college that prepares students with a mindset has to change. Collaborations — Kareem Abdul-Jabbar results-driven curriculum that goes beyond the chair. and putting your resources together with As always, thank you for your continued support others, everyone wins. Partnerships of d-mars.com, progressing our publication’s efforts to highlight the provide economic development, resulting in the creation of wealth for communities in which we serve, live, and work. Partnering together, we our community. This type of cooperation is an investment, growing the succeed in making positive things happen. economy and enhancing the well-being and quality of life for all residents.

This month’s cover story highlights a successful joint venture. A

Port of Houston

METRO

BEHIND THE JOURNAL PUBLISHER & CEO Keith J. Davis, Sr. COO & MANAGING EDITOR Kimberly Floyd ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla ART DIRECTOR Angel Rosa DISTRIBUTION Rockie Hayden PHOTOGRAPHY L.C. Poullard Grady Carter

City of Houston

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CONTENTS

DBE

ADVERTISING | MARKETING MEDIA | COMMUNICATION

06 COMMUNITY 06 Texas Southern University Announced All-Star Lineup of Radio Personalities at 04 The Vibe, Powered by KTSU 90.9FM 08 The Greater Houston Black Chamber Hosted the Coveted Pinnacle and Upstart Awards at the 26th Annual Celebration of Black Business Excellence 12 EDUCATION & CAREER 12 Tips for Landing a Job in the COVID-19 Era 26 Supporting Teachers on the Frontlines of COVID-19 12, 21 COVER STORY 12, 21 Quality Is Always in Style at Quality Barber College 13-20 HEALTH & WELLNESS 14 Amid COVID-19 Pandemic, Stop the Spread of Flu 16 COVID-19 and Face Coverings: The Different Types and Why it Matters 18 As Clinical Trials Halt, U.S. Covid Cases Surge 19 The Women Leading the Fight Against COVID-19

12, 21

VBE

OUR SERVICES

04 BUSINESS 04 How COVID-19 Has Changed the Way We Do Business Forever

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS d-mars.com

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• 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

28 FINANCE 28 5 Ways to Strengthen Your Financial Protection Plan

28

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4 | November 2020 BUSINESS

How COVID-19 Has Changed the Way We Do Business Forever By d-mars.com News Provider

T

he COVID-19 pandemic has fundamentally changed how business gets done. And when it comes to midsized and small businesses, the importance of investing in new technology, facilitating remote work and maintaining a tech-savvy workforce has never been so clear, according to a new survey.

Conducted by The Harris Poll for CIT Group Inc., a leading national bank focused on empowering businesses and personal savers, the survey of leaders of U.S. middle-market and small businesses is designed to illuminate the intersection of technolog y and talent.

Compa red to last year’s survey, significantly more leaders today believe continuous technological investment is a business requirement.

“The resiliency a nd f le x ibi lit y that technology can deliver businesses has been convincingly proven by COVID-19,” says David Harnisch, president of CIT’s Commercial Finance division. “Business leaders have taken that lesson to heart and are focused on making technology a fundamental part of their ‘tomorrow thinking’.”

Most executives surveyed wish that they’d invested even more in technology over the past 12 months. In fact, more than three in four middle market executives believe investments in technology would have helped their company fare better during the pandemic. For small businesses, roughly half felt similarly.

However, there’s little question how important technology will be going forward, with the majority of respondents saying it’s crucial to future success.

Seemingly determined not to repeat the mistake of under-investing, the majority plan to invest as much or more in their business over the next 12 months as compared to the past year. Only 15% of small businesses say they may invest less this coming year, likely due to financial constraints resulting from the pandemic.

“Small businesses don’t always have the financial resources that larger enterprises often enjoy,” says Ken Martin, managing director of CIT’s Small Business Solutions group. “When investments are imperative, borrowing or leasing may be the right solution to acquiring the technology needed to remain competitive.”

When it comes to these upgrades, investments that make it easier for employees to work remotely are a clear priority. Over the next 12 months, 71% of middle market executives and 31% of small business leaders who plan to invest will spend on technology that facilitates remote work.

“It’s not just a matter of convenience.

Businesses that empower employees to work remotely have a clear competitive advantage,” says Denise Menelly, CIT's executive vice president and head of Technology and Operations.

This is a trend that’s likely here to stay. Approximately a quarter of small businesses operating remotely expect -- and want -- these changes to remain permanent after COVID-19 subsides, and about 40% of middle market executives expect the same, with some seeing it as a means to grow the company.

However, this digital transformation puts a premium on a tech-savvy workforce able to support customers and collaborate with colleagues remotely. While many believe their current workforce has the skills to keep up, businesses are also substantially more likely than last year to say companies need to focus on hiring tech-savvy talent.

While the COVID-19 pandemic has created a great deal of uncertainty for small and midsized businesses, it has in many ways clarified what’s needed to remain successful in an evolving world.

Source: StatePoint, www.statepoint. net

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

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November 2020 | 5

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6 | November 2020 COMMUNITY

Texas Southern University Announced

All-Star Lineup of Radio Personalities at The Vibe, Powered

by KTSU 90.9FM HBCUs such as

By d-mars.com News Provider

K

TSU 90.9FM recently announced a team of jocks and personalities who joined the new Urban Alternative public radio station, The Vibe. Rob G The General, Amir Diamond, Michele McKnight, and Steve Nice made their debut last month on The Vibe, which broadcasts and streams the cutting-edge format from the campus of Texas Southern University (TSU).

“The Vibe’s new lineup of jocks and personalities is a recipe for a success. We at KTSU are excited to evolve and serve our entire community by engaging a younger demographic and by using KTSU The Choice as a blueprint for quality programming. I’m excited for our new Vibe team to change the game for Houston radio, all while keeping our nearly 50-year legacy of excellence alive,” said KTSU General Manager Ernest Walker.

The Vibe launched over Labor Day Weekend, introducing the evolving sound at KTSU on the 90.9FM dial Monday through Saturday from 8pm to 5am and 24 hours/day from vibehouston.com and the interactive Vibe App. Appealing to Millennials and Generation Z through a mix of Hip Hop, R&B, and Neo-Soul, The Vibe fills a void in the Houston market with not only chart-topping music, but rising local and national artists, live and virtual performances and events, thoughtful programming, community outreach, and an urban news perspective. The Vibe was launched with funding from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

Gettotoknow knowthe thepersonalities: personalities: Get The all-star tea m begins with The Vibe’s new morning show jock, Rob G The General, a 20 year radio veteran, the mixing genius behind the Madd Hatta Morning Show (2004 2020) on KBXXFM 97.9 The Box, and morning show host of The Boom Juice Crew (2015-17) on KROI Boom 92. Rob G’s skilled DJ’ing has been requested around the globe, and he has DJ’d parties for some of the world’s biggest celebrities including Beyonce, Jay-Z, Diddy, Kevin Hart, Jamie Foxx and Erykah Badu, as well as organizations like the Houston Astros, the Houston Texans and Houston Rockets. During the global pandemic, Rob G has DJ’d fundraisers for local and national chapters of notable organizations such as the United Negro College Fund, Jack and Jill, and alumni chapters at

S p e l m a n Un i v e r s it y, H o w a r d University and Pr a i r i e Vi e w A&M University.

Rob G says, “I’m enthused to be a part of this new direction, this new vibe that is taking place on the campus of Texas Southern University. I’m looking forward to presenting radio in a fresh and unique way!”

A f ternoons on The Vibe will be hosted by radio roya lt y A mir Diamond.

Nick na med “The Hustler”

by Houston’s own Beyonce, Amir inherited his love for music and entertainment from his parents, Kandi Eastmen (Majic 102.1) and MC Spice (The Wendy Williams Experience), both highly celebrated radio gurus in Houston and beyond. The actor and multimedia personality began his broadcasting career in 2011, bringing light to the city on 97.9 The Box and RadioNow 92.1.

"I'm super excited to be joining The Vibe, powered by KTSU 90.9FM Radio. It's a dope concept that's young, fun and fresh! I've worked, attended summer camps and had my first college experience at Texas Southern University, so it feels amazing to be back home on the Tiger Walk. LET'S GO!" Diamond raves.

Michele McKnight brings much-needed feminine energy to evenings on The Vibe,

along with over a decade of broadcast and radio experience at Hot AC, Top 40, Alternative, Urban AC and Hip Hop formatted stations in Houston, San Antonio, Peoria, Milwaukee, Prairie View and Lake Charles. McKnight credits Madd Hatta, The Vibe’s new Content Director and Texas Radio Hall of Fame Member, as well as Shelley Wade, the official voice of The Vibe, as her radio career influencers. “I'm really excited to be joining the team at the Vibe! New and fresh energy is always a beautiful thing, and I'm looking forward to playing a role in the greatness that KTSU 90.9FM already brings to the city of Houston,” McKnight says.

Seasoned DJ and mixer Steve Nice has held the spot for #1 rated mix shows in multiple markets for the last two decades. The fan favorite has graced the pages of The Source, XXL, and Vibe Magazines and garnered even more national attention with his appearances on BET, ESPN, MTV, and VH1. Between concert tours, weekly club venues (and currently the Mainstage DJ for the Essence Festival in the Superdome in New Orleans), Nice keeps a busy schedule. His media magic led him to the DFW's No. 1 radio station K104, Monday through Thursday on the D L Hu g h l e y R adio Show and now KTSU 90.9FM’s The Vibe. “It's an exciting time for TSU Radio! The Vibe is definitely what's needed not only for our TSU/3rd Ward community, but for the city of Houston. This was the first station to play my mixes on the air while I was attending school/playing football. It gave me the drive to continue radio from that point forward. It's only right that I give my talents back to the school that gave me a shot!” Nice shares.

For more information about programming and scheduling for The Vibe, please visit www.vibehouston.com.

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Source: KTSU Radio

November 2020 | 7

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8 | November 2020 COMMUNITY

The Greater Houston Black Chamber Hosted the Coveted Pinnacle and Upstart Awards at the 26th Annual Celebration of Black Business Excellence By d-mars.com

2020 Upstart Award: The Gingerbread School

News Provider

T

he Greater Houston Black Chamber (GHBC) held its 26th Annual Pinnacle Awards, Saturday, October 24, 2020, where several of Houston’s best and most promising Black-owned businesses received high honors.

The GHBC Pinnacle Award recognizes leading African-American entrepreneurs for their success in business and their positive impact on the communities and industries they serve.

Each year, five Pinnacle Awards and one Upstart Award are handed out to some of the most successful small businesses. This is the third-year a Rising Star award was also named.

2020 Pinnacle Award: HillDay Public Relations

In addition to these prestigious honors, the GHBC also honored several other businesses and individuals with community awards including: 2020 Rising Star Award: Total Wellness Assessment and Counseling

2020 Pinnacle Award: Lucille’s

• Lifetime Achievement Award – Robert F. Smith, Vista Equity Partners • Excellence Award – James Harris, H-E-B • Larry V. Green Advocate of the Year Award – Tamla Oates-Farney, Waste Management • Mickey Leland Public Leadership Award – Lina Hidalgo, Harris County Judge • Young Entrepreneur Award – Brice Everhart, Vallaire’s for Men • Niles Dillard of Superior Video Productions and Janette Hammond of CenterPoint Energy served as vice-chairs of the event, and Laurie Vignaud, president of Unity National Bank was the honorary chairperson.

2020 Pinnacle Award: J. Archer Insurance Group

Founded in 1935 as the city’s first AfricanAmerican civic organization, the GHBC has evolved into an active participant in the city of Houston’s socioeconomic process. The GHBC is the “go-to” organization for business development and community outreach partnership opportunities in the Houston African-American community. This annual awards celebration is one of the GHBC’s many efforts promoting greater unity among the African-American business community. Congratulations to all of the honorees.

2020 Pinnacle Award: Nuksys’s Fine Catering

For more information, please visit www.ghbcc.com

2020 Pinnacle Award: ReMax Legacy Living/ReMax 1st Class

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November 2020 | 9

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10 | November 2020

Providing Professional & Personal Development

Essential for A Barber Student’s Success By d-mars.com News Provider

B

arber employment statistics reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has Texas at the top of the list with the highest employment level and concentration of jobs and location quotients in this occupation. Preparing students with curriculum that goes beyond the chair for competency and competitiveness is “There is no other in Quality Barber College. Co-owned by Houston like Quality established business leaders Niki SmithScott and Monica Freeman, this college Barber College. In is built on a foundation of “quality” in addition to the every sense of the word, with barber students learning courses, cosmetology crossover courses, and master instruction courses for those how to provide exceptional hair who want to keep their skills sharp and services, our training is extensive trending with industry standards. And with Scott and Freeman having a proven to include finance, business, and track record in entrepreneurship, there is marketing support. We are proud to an extension to the educational experibe a vital element for a graduate’s ence, affording students knowledge on business ownership, finance, and runfirm foundation to be a strong force ning day-to-day operations. in this field.”

Quality Barber College offers fulltime and part-time schedules, payment plans, and discounted services to the —Niki Smith-Scott, public with haircuts, tapers, fades, hot Co-Owner of Quality Barber College lather shaves, and facials. This licensed barber institution is strategically located in the community, attracting their target student market for a valuable student and client experience. Quality is the cornerstone of this business, offering a first-rate education and tools for success in an exceptional setting. Standing on their slogan “Where quality is always in style,” this college brings high-quality training necessary to be competitive in the industry as a licensed barber.

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November 2020 | 11

d-mars.com Q&A with

Quality Barber College: Please talk about how during COVID-19 you are prepared to continue to instruct students in a productive and safe learning environment.

Quality Barber College has adapted to overcome the challenges of COVID-19.

We are open for operation during this pandemic. We balance the educational, social, and emotional needs of our students along with the health and safety of students, staff, and clients.

Though the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation does set out a minimum standard that businesses must abide by, we exceed those standards. We require temperature checks for students, clients, and instructors, hand washing before and after each client, and tools and equipment are thoroughly sanitized. In addition, students are socially distanced (at least 6 feet apart) while in class, also wearing masks throughout the day. These are just some of the measures Quality Barber College has in place for the protection of our students, staff, and clients during this pandemic.

Talk about Quality Barber College’s special elements and approach to instruction that help make students a force in this profession after graduation.

Our campus has set the bar on how barber schools should look, with an appealing design layout and atmosphere for a positive experience for students and visitors. We host panel discussions and events with past and present barber shop owners who discuss the ins and outs of business ownership. Franchise salon owners and renters come in to speak on the pros and cons of receiving a salary vs. paying for booth rental. And our students gain knowledge in finance with accountants and financial advisors, discussing taxes, savings, credit scores, and investing. Our program also provides students with marketing knowledge and plans to help generate clients and revenue.

“Quality Barber College is a licensed barber school, and providing a quality education is the cornerstone of our business. We believe students choose our barber college over others because of our proven track record, reputation, learning environment, and quality instruction.”

—Monica Freeman, Co-Owner of Quality Barber College For information on how to enroll at Quality Barber College or to make an appointment for services, please visit www.qualitybarbercollege.com.

Source: www.bls.gov

Are you seeing more female barbers enter this field, and how is Quality Barber College encouraging women to pursue a profession in this male-dominated industry?

Yes! Absolutely! And men are now accustomed to having females cut their hair. In addition, there are several upscale barber shops/ salons that offer memberships and private rooms for barber services where women fit right in. We encourage women to join the barbering industry through our class offerings. We have marketed our school to cosmetologists, a field mostly sought after by women. But our curriculum allows cosmetologists to earn a barber license in a shorter amount of time. This gives cosmetologists the opportunity to broaden their knowledge and expand their services.

Can you please share with us a student success story?

There are so many success stories. The students I love to see are the ones who have no experience, but are excited to work in the field.

We have a student who was laid off during this pandemic and could not find employment. But he took this opportunity to come to Quality Barber College and learn the barbering trade. This student is on his way to a great career, being in high demand. It’s also a wonderful feeling when clients come in feeling down and low about their appearance, but leave feeling and looking great.

Quality Barber College is on a mission to bring high-quality training to individuals desiring a lucrative career as a licensed barber. Students can be a high school student in an at-risk area, an ex-offender deserving a second chance, or someone seeking a career change. Quality Barber College is exceptional in barber education and professional development. But what makes this institution stand out from the rest are its tools for a student’s personal development, skills just as important for a successful career.

When COVID-19 required city mandated business closures, clients couldn’t get haircuts. And people are now more aware and appreciative of how valuable barbers and cosmetologists are to their everyday life. The demand and Quality Barber College’s curriculum and success rate are proof supporting a student’s ability to thrive in this field. And to broaden the college’s reach to a wider student market and increase enrollment, Scott and Freeman plan to expand, with a second school within the next 2 years.

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12 | November 2020 EDUCATION & CAREER

Tips for Landing a Job in the COVID-19 Era By d-mars.com NNPA Provider

T

he job hunt after college is exhilarating and emotional while at the same time stressful and exhausting. Adding a global pandemic into the mix threatens to upend the process for the nearly 4 million 2020 graduates.

For recent graduates, the disruption to the hiring and internship experience has brought unexpected challenges and adversity, and tested their ability to persevere.

Some internships have been canceled or pushed back and job offers have been rescinded as companies have frozen hiring to lessen the financial burden brought on by the pandemic. Travel bans are restricting graduates from taking jobs across borders and graduates are faced with fewer job openings and increased competition for those jobs. These are just some of the added roadblocks new graduates are facing in 2020.

At the same time, many companies are pivoting to virtual interviews and networking events and, in some instances, entire internships have gone remote.

With remote jobs and internships comes new challenges for students and grads to overcome. Kristen Wahl, director of the EcoCAR Mobility Challenge and the Advanced Vehicle Technology Competition program at Argonne National Laboratory, has helped thousands of students land jobs post-college during her 20-plus years leading the program.

Here are a few tips from Wahl for landing

that first job in the COVID-19 era: Use the virtual tools at your disposal to network with recruiters. With in-person events off the table this fall, jobseekers need to seek alternative methods for making the connections that previously would have happened at career fairs. Reach out to your network on LinkedIn and other recruiting platforms. Email the professional contacts you've made through industry organizations or extracurricular activities.

Pick up the phone and call recruiters to learn more about an open position.

It's all about taking the extra step to stand out from the crowd when first impressions are no longer face-to-face.

Take advantage of virtual recruiting fairs and career prep sessions. Is your school hosting a virtual career fair? Is the student organization you're a member of bringing in a guest speaker for a virtual chat? Identify the many opportunities available to connect with potential employers and use them to make connections. To stand out from the crowd, you'll need to be an active participant. Ask questions. Share thoughts. Contribute to the conversation. Don't be afraid to speak up, but also make sure you do your research on the company first.

At EcoCAR, we identified ways to connect students with prospective employers. We quickly ramped up virtual recruiting webinars and career prep sessions, continued facilitating personal introductions and industry mentoring opportunities and revised our recruiting tools to better match talent with relevant positions.

And finally, practice your virtual personal sales pitch and refine your digital professional presence to reflect all you have to offer. Make sure your LinkedIn and portfolio highlight your experiences and skills. Go beyond just sharing your degree information and articulate your value proposition.

This includes showcasing your outof-the-classroom experiences, leadership training, previous internships, as well as describing times you overcame adversity.

Recruiters want problem solvers and critical thinkers. They want someone who will pick up a new skill quickly and learn fast. So, instead of looking at the pandemic as a setback on your job search journey, view it as an opportunity to demonstrate you possess these qualities and are right for the job.

Source: BPT

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d-mars.com

November 2020 | 13 June 2020 | 13

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HEALTH & WELLNESS JOURNAL

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

November 2020

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Inspire, Inform & Educate

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100th Edition

The

Women Leading the Fight Against COVID-19

19

INSIDE

14

Amid COVID-19 Pandemic, Stop the Spread of Flu

16

COVID-19 and Face Coverings: The Different Types and Why it Matters Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

18

As Clinical Trials Halt, U.S. Covid Cases Surge

14 | November 2020 HEALTH

Amid COVID-19 Pandemic, Stop the Spread of Flu “No one has time to get sick from flu -- especially this year,” says Dr. Bailey. “Getting a flu shot is one thing we all can do to help protect ourselves, our families and our communities.”

By d-mars.com News Provider

A

mid the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, with hospitals and health care workers already overburdened, medical experts say it’s more important than ever to slow the spread of the flu. In a typical year, the flu causes tens of millions of illnesses, hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations, and tens of thousands of deaths in the U.S. That is why the Ad Council, the American Medical Association (AMA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the CDC Foundation have launched a new campaign, “No One Has Time for Flu.” As part of the campaign, Dr. Susan R. Bailey, M.D., president of the AMA, is sharing important insights about flu vaccination:

• Flu vaccines are safe: The flu vaccine is a safe, effective step that physicians and public health experts recommend to protect patients and their loved ones from getting sick with influenza. This year, doctor's offices and pharmacies are taking steps to ensure vaccines can be provided safely during the COVID-19 pandemic. The CDC recommends that each year everyone 6 months and older (with rare exceptions) get a flu vaccine early in the season, preferably by the end of October, before flu is spreading widely.

• Getting one is important this year: Because you can get flu and COVID-19 at the same time, it’s especially important for people with underlying health conditions that put them at higher risk of serious complications -- and their caregivers -- to get their flu shot. At the community level, the potential impact of a bad flu season during the COVID-19 pandemic could be devastating. Getting a flu shot will help keep others healthy and help make sure health care workers and hospitals have the resources to continue to treat

Source: StatePoint

COVID-19 patients.

• Flu protection is especially urgent for people of color: Due to longstanding health care inequities, Black and Latinx/Hispanic people are disproportionately affected by underlying conditions which can cause both COVID-19 and flu complications. This results in much greater rates of flu-related hospitalizations. Indeed, a new CDC analysis of 10 flu seasons showed that Black people were hospitalized at a rate twice as high as White people.

Black and LatinX/Hispanic communities are also less likely to get vaccinated due to a range of barriers. CDC data shows that in the 2019-20 flu season, Latinx/Hispanic adults had the lowest flu vaccination coverage (38.3 percent), with non-Hispanic Black adults next lowest (41.2 percent).

• Getting vaccinated is easy: Vaccines are often free or offered at very low cost. To learn more about safe, affordable flu vaccination, including where to get one in your area, visit GetMyFluShot.org. You can also view a short video on flu vaccination by visiting, youtu.be/cl7wNuU5IIU.

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November 2020 | 15

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16 | November 2020 HEALTH

COVID-19 and Face Coverings:

The Different Types and Why it Matters By d-mars.com News Provider

Y

our neighbor is selling fashion masks. Your uncle – expert at everything – wears a sophisticated respirator with a valve. Your dental hygienist wears a medical mask. Your kid is running off to sports practice in a team-supplied neck gaiter. Is there a difference between these face coverings?

In the U.S., over 7 million people have been infected by COVID-19 and over 200,000 have died. According to health authorities, the virus that causes COVID-19 predominantly spreads when people talk, cough and sneeze. In addition to measures such as maintaining physical distancing and frequent handwashing, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently recommends everyone wear a cloth mask when out in public, especially in areas where physical distancing is a challenge, to help slow the spread of COVID-19. Since respirators are in critical supply and the global personal protective equipment (PPE) industry can’t make enough to meet this current demand, respirators and medical masks should be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders.

Wearing a face covering is important: a cloth face covering, such as a reusable mask may help protect others from the wearer. A respirator (when worn properly) helps protect the wearer from airborne hazards around them.

With the COVID-19 pandemic still affecting our daily lives, it's important to know how choosing a face covering can help those on the frontlines to get what they need to continue the fight.

One of the world’s biggest manufacturers of N95 respirators, 3M, created a chart, available at news.3m.com, to help explain the differences between cloth masks/face coverings, surgical masks, and N95 respirators. Ultimately, how you live and work should inform the type of mask you wear.

Face coverings and masks: general public and workers. At public spaces and certain workplaces where protection from occupational hazards is not needed, non-medical disposable and cloth masks that cover your nose and mouth completely may help reduce the spread of COVID-19 (along with other measures such as physical distancing and frequent handwashing) by protecting others from exposure to particles generated by the wearer. Designs with unfiltered valves, such as those with drinking straw holes, or any visible gaps, are not sufficient face coverings under some government guidance. General use masks should not be overly tight and should feel comfortable to wear. A face mask is not the same as a medical mask or respirator.

Medical masks: health care workers.

Medical masks are designed to be used by health care workers to help provide a barrier to high-velocity streams of liquid, as well as a barrier to particles that might be expelled by the wearer. This second reason is why health care workers wear medical masks – to help protect patients. Patients may also wear them to help protect others around them.

Medical masks meet specific standards and are FDA-cleared for hospital use in the U.S. They fit loosely on the face, so do not provide respiratory protection.

N95 Respirators: health care and critical frontline and certain other essential workers. When used correctly, N95 respirators are designed to create a tight seal to the face and provide respiratory protection. Because the entire surface of the respirator is a filter, it is efficient at capturing at least 95% of non-oily airborne particles that the wearer might breathe in, including liquid droplets that may contain viruses and germs. Respirators with valves are not recommended by the CDC for use in certain settings, such as health care environments that require a sterile field.

For more information on different face coverings, visit www.3m.com.

To stay up to date, consult the CDC and other health authorities for the latest guidelines, updates and recommended precautions around COVID-19.

Source: StatePoint

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November 2020 | 17

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18 | November 2020 HEALTH

As Clinical Trials Halt, U.S. Covid Cases Surge

contract the virus are known in just 52 percent of cases, 7 of the 10 U.S. counNNPA Newswire ties with the highest death rates from COVID-19 have populations where li Lilly recently announced that people of color make up the majority, acit would pause a government- cording to data compiled by USA Today. sponsored COVID-19 cliniOf the top 50 counties with the highcal trial because of a potential safety est death rates, 31 are populated mostly concern. by people of color.

The drug manufacturer did not spec“Put simply, America’s history of racify the concern, but the experimental ism was itself a preexisting condition,” vaccine is reportedly similar to the one study authors wrote for USA Today.

President Donald Trump has claimed Additionally, one report noted that cured him of the coronavirus. had African Americans died at the same Earlier, Johnson & Johnson put the rate as whites; approximately 20,800 brakes on a COVID-19 vaccine trial af- Black people would still be alive. ter the company noted an “unexplained Dr. James Hildreth, the president of illness” reported by a participant. the historically Black Meharry Medical I n C ol le g e i n S e p t e m b e r, Nashville, Great Britain Tennessee, told officials held the Black Press off on a pothat his school “By engaging with the four tential vaccine is among four when a particiHBCUs preBlack medical schools, pant reported paring to host [participants] will have a concerning on c a mpu s reaction. individuals who look like them, C O V I D -19 The difficulclinical trials. sitting across the table, having ty in producDr. Hildreth ing a vaccine these conversations, and we previously adfor the deadly vised against think that’s going to make a virus comes as any vaccine huge difference.” a new wave of touted by C OV I D -19 Trump, where infection has t he presibegun. dent exclaimed would be ready before Data provided by Johns Hopkins Election Day. University in Maryland revealed that “It’s true that Black people have little the U.S. surpassed 51,000 new daily trust in clinical trials, and that’s undercases on Oct. 13, marking the first time standable,” Dr. Hildreth stressed. “We’ve in over two months that the number engendered a level of trust with commuexceeded 50,000. nities of color that other organizations The average daily number of new cases just don’t have, and it’s imperative for stands at 48 percent higher than two us as HBCUs to rise to this occasion.” months ago when 34,354 were reported.

Dr. Hildreth noted that Meharry’s More than 36,000 COVID-19 pa- trial would feature a vaccine made by tients were hospitalized on Oct. 13, the Novavax. highest number recorded since August.

“I’ll be the first patient,” Dr. Hildreth Statistics from the Centers for Disease said, again punctuating the trust that’s Control and Prevention reveal that needed to secure African American African Americans remain three times participants. as likely as whites to contract the coro“By engaging with the four Black navirus, five times as likely to end up in medical schools, [participants] will have the hospital, and twice as likely to die individuals who look like them, sitting from COVID-19. across the table, having these conversaWhile the race and tions, and we think that’s going to make e t h n i c i t y o f a huge difference.” t hose who

By Stacy M. Brown

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November 2020 | 19 HEALTH

The Women Leading the Fight Against COVID-19 By d-mars.com News Provider

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ess than 30 percent of the world’s researchers are women, according to the UNESCO Institute for Statistics. However, one team fighting against COVID-19 is not only leading the charge to save lives, but also in empowering women in science, encouraging the next generation of girls and young women to pursue STEM education.

At biotechnology company Allied BioScience, chief science officer Maha El-Sayed, PhD leads a femaledominated team of researchers, and their work has the potential to be a game changer in the fight against COVID-19 and other future viruses. Their product, SurfaceWise2, continuously kills 99.9 percent of viruses, including, most importantly, the virus that causes COVID-19.

“When it comes to women in STEM, there’s a lot of untapped potential. It’s my hope that our team can inspire young women to pursue careers in science, and inspire other research teams to bring more talented women into the fold and elevate them to positions where they can drive real change,” says Dr. El-Sayed.

As Dr. El-Sayed explains, human coronaviruses can persist on inanimate surfaces such as plastic, glass, fibers and metals for up to nine days. This makes it critical to protect high-traffic facilities where the contamination of surfaces is continuous, such as schools, stadiums, restaurants, offices and retail spaces. More advanced than comparative products in reducing chemical and disinfectant exposure, SurfaceWise2 was proven in independent

studies conducted by infectious disease experts to be effective against Human Coronavirus 229E, the EPAapproved surrogate, demonstrating the ability to successfully protect against COVID-19. It’s the first such product to be EPA-approved.

So how is it used? Compatible with virtually all surfaces, SufaceWise2 is applied via an electronic spray for efficient, complete and uniform treatment. Droplets are small -- 900 times smaller than an average droplet -- and applied at a force of 75 times greater than gravity, causing a “wraparound effect,” and a natural force of attraction between the sprayed droplets and target surfaces. Once applied, the long-lasting antiviral coating physically breaks down the cells of bacteria and viruses that land on treated surfaces, effectively and continuously killing them without giving the bacteria a chance to mutate and build up resistance.

Despite its potency, this solution is very safe for humans, even in enclosed spaces.

Non-toxic, non-irritating, odorless and containing no chemicals that produce harmful vapors or gases, it’s already used by airlines, hospitality and travel companies, and in healthcare spaces. In the coming months, Dr. ElSayed and her team

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expect to see further use in professional sporting facilities, restaurant dining rooms, offices, schools and other spaces.

As the nation fights to safely reopen, the work of dedicated, female scientists is making a vital difference in saving lives and in helping businesses, communities and families return to normalcy.

To learn more about the work and achievements of Dr. El-Sayed and her team, visit www.surfacewise. com.

“Shedding light on the scientific achievements of women, particularly at this critical time in history, is essential to inspiring the next generation of girls and young women to pursue STEM education and careers in science,” says Dr. El-Sayed.

Source: StatePoint,

20 | November 2020

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24 | November 2020

RE-ELECT DISTRICT ATTORNEY KIM OGG "Reforming our system while protecting you. "

D.A. Kim Ogg's Record of Common Sense Reform

Public Safety Officials Agree:

RE-ELECT KIM OGG

Increased the hiring of Latino, African American, and internationally diverse prosecutors by 100% to better serve all crime victims.

Increased police accountability by investigating and prosecuting 35 officers and jailers for offenses ranging from theft to murder.

Collected and/or returned $30 million in restitution to victims of violent, financial, and environmental crimes

Harris County Sheriff

ED GONZALEZ

Harris County Commissioner and Former Sheriff

ADRIAN GARCIA

Former Houston Chief of Police and Mayor

LEE P. BROWN

Former Houston Chief of Po5lice

CHARLES MCCLELLAND

Saved taxpayers $28 million dollars each year by not prosecuting misdemeanor marijuana.

Redirected over 3,000 + non-violent mentally ill offenders to treatment instead of jail.

Constable

Exonerated 5 wrongly convicted individuals through evidence-based prosecution.

SHERMAN EAGLETON

Former Houston Chief of Police

C.O. "BRAD" BRADFORD

Pol. Adv. paid for by Kim Ogg for Harris County District Attorney, Scott Poerschke, Treasurer.

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Constable

Constable

ALAN ROSEN

MAY WALKER

November 2020 | 25

TH E

E X P E R T

N E TW O R K

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26 | November 2020 EDUCATION & CAREER

Supporting Teachers on the Frontlines of

COVID-19 By d-mars.com NNPA Provider

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ducators are among the many on the frontlines of COVID-19. During a time of immense disruption, they are quickly adapting their teaching methods, testing new skills, and discovering solutions to advance learning in profound new ways.

For K-12 educators who are designing instructional resources that align with the needs of today’s remote- and hybrid-teaching realities, a new emergency fund can potentially aid their efforts.

Launched by the National Geographic Society, the fund aims to directly support at least 50 teaching professionals, including formal and informal classroom educators, with grants ranging from $1,000–8,000. In an effort to support as many teachers and students as possible, the resources created by grant recipients will become freely available on the National Geographic Society education website, and within the National Geographic education communities on Twitter and Facebook.

on remote- and hybrid-learning resources, methodologies and practices that use the power of science, social studies and geography to help students understand the significance of current and complex challenges, such as a global pandemic.

Other priorities include instructional resources that help students bridge their personal experiences to a more global perspective on critical issues such as sustainability and social justice.

In an effort to identify, support and elevate a range of educator voices, perspectives and communities, priority will be given to those working in communities that have been particularly hard hit by the pandemic and who have not previously received National Geographic funding. Applicants can apply individually, in collaboration with other educators or with National Geographic Explorers. To learn more, visit NatGeoEd.org/covidgrants. To provide additional guidance during the application process, the Society is offering weekly virtual “Design Labs.”

Educators can also ask questions by visiting @NatGeoEducation on Twitter.

During an unusual school year, new avenues of support and funding are emerging. Leveraging these resources can help educators continue their mission of preparing young people to confront the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

Final HEB Diversity Red ads.qxp

4/7/08

11:24 AM

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At H-E-B, each and every Partner is responsible for upholding our

Source: StatePoint

commitment to diversity. Our daily

“The role of teachers has never been more important as they work tirelessly to engage and inspire their students in a socially distant world,”

actions value both the differences and similarities that make our Customers, Communities and Partners so unique.

says Vicki Phillips, chief education officer at the National Geographic Society.

“Our goal is to equip educators with the resources and support they need to continue creating, innovating and pioneering new ways of teaching so their peers and their students can continue growing.”

The fund places particular emphasis

®

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

www.heb.com

©2008 H-E-B Food Stores

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November 2020 | 27

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28 | November 2020 FINANCE

5 Ways to Strengthen Your Financial Protection Plan Lincoln Financial on how consumers can create a more robust financial protection plan:

By d-mars.com News Provider

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any Americans are feeling things like their health, job and retirement savings are at risk.

U.S. adults are most concerned about protection in times of economic uncertainty, according to a June 2020 Protection Study by Lincoln Financial Group and CivicScience. Specifically, the study found the pandemic has increased Americans’ concerns around having enough money saved for emergencies (39%), the impact of market volatility on their investments (30%), as well as having enough money for a comfortable retirement (29%).

“This year’s volatile market, along with the pandemic, has reinforced for many consumers just how important it is to have a well-rounded financial plan, one that can help weather these challenging times and set you up for success in the long-term,” said Jamie Ohl, executive vice president and president, Retirement Plan Services for Lincoln Financial Group.

“Make it a priority to have open conversations about your finances and your retirement goals with your loved ones so you can create a strategy to protect your future.”

Now is the perfect time to explore how to best protect against risk. Here are five suggestions from

• Fund the Future. Life insurance can be more than just a death benefit, with some types of policies offering income replacement for unforeseen events. It can also protect your financial security from the impact of taxes, market volatility and longevity. It’s not just for individuals and families either, but businesses too.

• Protect Your Paycheck. Go beyond health insurance and look at disability, accident and critical illness coverages, especially those available through your employer, to prevent income gaps and keep you from paying out of pocket for covered expenses.

• Add Protection to Your Portfolio. Consider diversifying your portfolio with an annuity. It can provide protected growth and monthly lifetime income for a

portion of your portfolio – to help cover expenses in retirement and ensure you have a stream of income throughout retirement.

• Reimagine Your Retirement Plan. As a result of the SECURE Act, in-plan guaranteed income options can serve as a powerful tool to protect savings during periods of market volatility, while still benefitting savers when the market goes up. Savers should also stay focused on the long-term, and remember that saving for retirement is a marathon, not a sprint.

• Create a Cushion. The expense of an unexpected long-term healthcare event may not be something you’ve considered in your plan.

Unfortunately, these events can come on suddenly, and be very costly, so don’t wait – make sure you have a strategy to cover the cost of care if you or a loved one needed it.

Visit www.lincolnfinancial.com for more tips and resources.

To protect your future, it is important to have a robust, multifaceted financial plan in place, particularly during times of economic uncertainty.

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Source: StatePoint

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30 | November 2020

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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