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BUSINESS JOURNAL

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

March 2021

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Inspire, Inform & Educate

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163RD Edition

In the Midst of COVID-19,

The R.O.C.K. Excels and Expands!

Dr. Dana Carson, Apostle & Senior Leader of The R.O.C.K. 13-20

INSIDE

25

04

10 Tips To Support Small Businesses

25

Celebrating Women’s History Month

Comerica Bank Appoints Summer Faussette National African American Business Development Manager

2 | March 2021

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

March 2021 | 3

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE d-mars.com is proud to continue our partnership with the com- and Kingdom-minded church that desires to impact all generations, munity, publishing positive content and success stories promoting and the world, for the Kingdom of God. Its ministry programs are the advancement of our African American businesses and civic and strategically outlined to execute the church’s vision. The R.O.C.K. is community leaders. a multi-generational, multicultural, multi-continent, This month’s cover story highlights and multi-campus church with a mission to know The R.O.C.K. The R.O.C.K. is not the God, make Him known to others, and spread the typical church, and its founder and senKingdom message worldwide. ior leader, Dr. Dana Carson, is not the We hope that this cover story on The R.O.C.K., typical church leader. Instead of using as well as all of the features inspire and drive you to 2020 as a time for rest and relaxation, not let obstacles, such as the pandemic, deter you which he and the ministry definitely from planning and working for the progression of needed, Dr. Carson led The R.O.C.K. in the community in which you live and work. accomplishing one of the ministry’s largAs always, thank you for your continued support —Martin Luther King, Jr. est goals – acquiring the new R.O.C.K. of d-mars.com, progressing our publication’s efforts Cathedral, Conference Center, and to highlight the communities in which we serve, Kingdom Theological Seminary. live, and work. Partnering together, we succeed in making positive The R.O.C.K. is a Bible-centered, Spirit-filled, Community-building, things happen.

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BEHIND THE JOURNAL PUBLISHER & CEO Keith J. Davis, Sr. COO & MANAGING EDITOR Kimberly Floyd Business Development Manager Amber P. Jones ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla OFFICE COORDINATOR Tiffany Brown PROJECT COORDINATOR Bria Casteel ART DIRECTOR Angel Rosa WEB DESIGNER Erick Fontejon PHOTOGRAPHY Grady Carter L.C. Poullard DISTRIBUTION Rockie Hayden CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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CONTENTS 04 BUSINESS 04 10 Tips To Support Small Businesses 04 COMMUNITY 04 Mostyn Law Commissions Artwork Saluting Vice President Kamala Harris 06 EDUCATION & CAREER 06 Why Nonprofit Leaders Need To Lead The Way In Innovating Education 06 Boosting Your Child’s Confidence Can Help Them Land a Tech Job 08 ENTREPRENEUR 08 Love and Life Inspire Success for Two Black Women Entrepreneurs 9-12, 21-24 HEALTH & WELLNESS 10 Is It Allergies or COVID-19?

7 Symptoms To Watch 11 How and Why to Improve the Fit of Your Mask 21 President Biden Taps Meharry Medical College President for COVID Task Force 21 CDC: Life Expectancy of Black Men Has Dropped by Three Years 22 President Biden Applauded for Reopening of Obamacare Enrollment 22 4 Easy Tips To Help Older Adults Stay Active at Home

20 FINANCE 25 Comerica Bank Appoints Summer Faussette National African American Business Development Manager 13-20 COVER STORY 13-20 Apostle & Senior Leader of The R.O.C.K. 26 FINANCE 26 U.S. Bank Launches New Approach to Build Wealth and Create Access for Diverse Communities 27 POLITICS 27 Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Leads U.S. Reparations Bill H.R. 40 28 REAL ESTATE 28 How Can We Narrow the Black Homeownership Gap? 30 TECHNOLOGY 30 Why Getting Tech Savvy Doesn’t Have to be Hard

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25 WOMEN‘S HISTORY MONTH 25 Celebrating Women’s History Month

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4 | March 2021 BUSINESS

10 Tips To Support Small Businesses By d-mars.com News Provider

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he COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult on small businesses. Whether it's a local eatery, service provider, retail store or another type of business, when you shop small, you're supporting a real person who is striving to keep his or her entrepreneurial dream alive.

"Small businesses are the heart of our country and Ball® home canning products business," says Kris Malkoski, CEO of the Food Business Unit at Newell Brands. "We have been moved by the love our small business customers have shown their communities this past year. Still many small businesses are facing hardships and they need our support now more than ever."

You can personally help make a difference by considering 10 simple ways to support small businesses: Shop now: No need to wait for a sale or special event. By shopping now you're putting much-needed funds into a small business that is depending on income each month to make ends meet and keep doors open.

Reverse shopping: Rather than thinking of the recipient and then where to shop for a gift, think of the shop first and then the recipients that would most like items from that particular business.

Go online: For small businesses that offer e-commerce options, be sure to consider online orders that ship directly to your home. This is a safe and convenient way to support your favorite businesses.

Shop in person: For businesses with physical locations, visit shops in person if you can use proper safety measures. If you know what you want, many businesses let you order ahead and opt for curbside or doorway pickup as well.

Consider gift cards: Not sure what to buy? Gift cards are always one of the most desired gifts, so if you need to send a little love to a loved one, wrap up a gift certificate in a beautiful card and feel good about your present choice.

Leave reviews: Online reviews can make a big difference for small businesses in expanding clientele. Go online and leave rave reviews for your favorite stores and why others should support them as well to help spread the word.

Be vocal: In addition to online reviews, talk up your favorite small businesses among friends. From independent restaurants to local service providers, use your voice as a powerful tool to build their reputation and support growth.

Partnerships: Look for small businesses who partner together to offer products or services that complement each other in packages, such as a gift basket bundle featuring your

favorite local treats. You'll support multiple businesses at once and often get a discount compared to buying separately.

Double up: For businesses like independent coffee shops or bakeries, consider a larger order. For example, go with that grande latte and order two dozen cookies to share with your neighbors.

Be patient: Small businesses are dealing with a multitude of challenges these days, from supply chain holdups to sluggish shipping and beyond. Your kindness is valued and your patience is crucial during these times.

"Actions big and small will help make a difference," says Malkoski. "This is our time to give back to the businesses that help build our culture and communities, and we at Newell Brands want to give back too."

Source: BPT

COMMUNITY

Mostyn Law Commissions Artwork Saluting Vice President Kamala Harris By d-mars.com News Provider

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mber Mostyn and Mostyn Law have commissioned original works from a number of local artists, inviting them to share their personal interpretations of the image of Vice President Kamala Harris. These works, created by Linda Simien Kelly, Rico Edwards and Kaima Marie, among others, will be awarded in an online consumer sweepstakes with Majic 102 (KMJQ-FM/Houston), in support of Mostyn Law’s 1-800-TRUCKWRECK initiatives.

“We’re celebrating an unprecedented achievement in the pursuit of equality, opportunity and social change,” observes Mostyn. “Kamala Harris bears many distinctions. She is the first African American vice president.

She is the first vice president of South Asian descent.

And she is the highest ranking female elected official in our nation. Her record-breaking achievements deserve endless tribute. At Mostyn Law, we want to share our salute with Houston, as the world witnesses a renewal of the soul of our nation.”

The Mostyn Law “Soul of the Nation Salute” is now underway. Houston-area residents may register to win these paintings at www.1800TruckWreck.com/win, the same online platform used by Mostyn Law to award $10,000 in local restaurant gift cards last fall. The

deadline for entries is March 13, 2021, followed by the announcement of four randomly selected winners, who will each receive one of the four commissioned pieces. Official rules for the giveaway are available at www.1800truckwreck.com/win.

About Mostyn Law and 1-800-TRUCKWRECK Mostyn Law is a Houston-based law firm specializing in personal injury law, with a focused expertise in accidents involving trucks and other commercial vehicles.

Amber Mostyn, the firm’s co-founder, is a native Texan known for her legal expertise and courtroom successes, as well as her philanthropy and community activism.

About the artist Linda Simien Kelly and her work, “The Identity of Change” Linda Simien Kelly is a primarily self-taught, abstract expressionist artist who has been pursuing her craft on a full-time basis for over a decade. Her considerable professional accolades include first-prize honors in the Museum of Fine Arts Houston’s 17th Annual Citywide African American Artists Exhibition at the Glassell School of Art and recognition as a prize winning artist at the Lawndale Art Center’s “The Big Show” annual juried exhibition.

Her work has been featured in Citywide Artists Juried Exhibitions at the University Museum at Texas Southern University, The Community Artists’ Collective Gallery, Project Row Houses, The Assistance League of Houston Artists Exhibition at Williams Tower Gallery, The Art on The Avenue Juried Exhibition, the Archway Gallery, the Gallery Jatad and the “M” Gallery. The Louisiana native is a proud graduate of Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The artist lives in Houston with her husband Herb Kelly, and is the mother of three sons, Dourty, Jamil, and Joseph.

For additional photos, information on the artists, and to schedule interviews, please contact Doug Harris or Sophia Baine.

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March 2021 | 5

713.597.4499 877.214.5758

theallencg@gmail.com www.allencounselinggroup.com

President, Lead Therapist and Mediator at Allen Counseling Group, PLLC. Licensed Professional Counselor approved by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Licensed Professional Counselors.

Texas Certified Mediator - Parenting agreements and relationship dissolution.

“As your relationship coach, I will work with you to identify unhealthy communication patterns, recover from affairs, stop living like roomates, and revitalize your relationship.”

Specializing in Relationship and Self-Improvement counseling for an exclusive clientele of: - professionals - entrepreneurs - celebrities - athletes Desire Full Confidentiality while working through personal challenges.

No worries about sitting in an office wondering who may “see you” because we offer Tele-Conferencing from the location of your convenience. speciali in working with couples, While I specialize I also work with individuals who want to improve their self-esteem and achieve their personal goals.

I have appointments available in the evenings and on Saturdays to fit your schedule.

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6 | March 2021 EDUCATION & CAREER

Why Nonprofit Leaders

Need To Lead The Way In Innovating Education By d-mars.com News Provider

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ounder of LiteracyMatters.org, a foundation on a mission to close the literacy gap with scalable, ethical technology & evidence-based instruction.

As 2020 came to a close, were you looking at the glass half full, or depending on the day, half empty after almost a year of surviving the pandemic? In 2021, millions of American families will continue to struggle to put food on the table, while others will have children set up, sitting up, and eager to join virtual classmates and teachers, in Zoom classrooms across this nation. If they have access to the internet and equity in education - that's a big, powerful word - if.

And if not now, when?

When the vaccine makes its way across the country and schools hopefully reopen, there is a question we will have to address as a nation: What becomes of the preexisting condition and national crisis of illiteracy that continues to destroy the future of our nation's children? How many children have fallen even further behind this year because we did not innovate to educate, reach and teach all children how and where they learn?

According to research from Gallup and the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy, low adult literacy rates could be costing the U.S. economy $2.2 trillion in GDP. The research found that roughly 130 million adults in the U.S. are "reading below the equivalent of a sixth grade level." Reading levels in grade schoolaged children have been stagnating and even dropping off. In 2019, national average reading scores for fourth and eighth graders were slightly below average reading scores in 2017.

Whether we look at the data on our failing education systems as a travesty of justice or from the lens of an economist astounded by the loss of human capital, there

Photo Caption: Deb Mallin, Forbes Councils Member

are questions we should be asking. If the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different outcome, we should apply this principle to our education efforts.

Why haven't today's classrooms changed much in the way they look and operate over the past several decades? Why, in 2020, in this rapidly advancing, digital age of technology and machine learning and AI, are we still teaching children as though they rode to school in a horse-drawn buggy? We scaled Braille across this nation in 1918, during the time of the candlestick phone and the 1918 flu pandemic. Why can't we provide the fundamental skills of literacy, a sound-to-symbol and symbol-to-sound system that teaches the English language?

Who benefits when children are unable to move from learning to read to reading to learn? Access to evidence-based, whole child-centered learning is not

a pie. We don't need to ration piece by piece when we have the ability to democratize education. There is more than enough pie for everyone. We all do better when we all do better.

As nonprofit leaders, we have the immense responsibility to redefine and rethink how we approach our education initiatives. I challenge you as leaders to rethink how we provide sustainable systems change, starting with acknowledging that our efforts are dramatically diminished if we continue to work in silos.

Collaboration, partnerships and coalitions offer us opportunities to strengthen our impact by harnessing the power and resources our fellow nonprofits have to offer.

As leaders in the education space, let's commit to supporting the best of both proven and innovative ways of approaching this generation's national epidemic of illiteracy. I believe we can deconstruct the problem and mobilize an all-American effort to provide equity in education, with teachers properly trained in the science of literacy instruction, scalable individualized curriculum and the use of ethical technology that makes it all possible.

Another crucial element to our efforts is to educate ourselves on political candidates, state budget proposals and public-private partnerships that commit to targeted and accountable literacy education initiatives. We are the players who can evoke real change and advocate for greater education in-roads. The ROI isn't just for the children we'll teach. It's exponentially significant to the donors who invest in our nonprofits - and for society as a whole.

As a nation, we can accept the hierarchy of responsibility and work together to make 2021 be the year we apply the lessons learned from the pandemic and scale literacy and justice for all.

Sources: BPT Forbes Nonprofit Council

EDUCATION & CAREER

Boosting Your Child’s Confidence Can Help Them Land a Tech Job By d-mars.com News Provider

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onfidence is a great thing. It can make people more open to learning new skills, pursuing new opportunities and living new experiences.

When it comes to career choices, confidence, or rather a lack of it, can keep qualified and motivated individuals from even considering certain fields. Technology is at the forefront of this dilemma, according to those in the industry, who also note that lingering misconceptions may be widening a “confidence gap.”

“For too long we’ve been telling young

people that the best jobs of the future will require advanced degrees in science, technology, engineering or math,” said Todd Thibodeaux, president and CEO of CompTIA, the Computing Technology Industry Association. “The reality is that the vast majority of good paying jobs in the next 30 years won’t require a STEM degree.

“Unfortunately, many students have concluded that they don’t have the qualifications or skills to work in tech, creating a confidence gap that contributes to the lack of diversity in the tech workforce,” Thibodeaux continued. “To close this gap we need employers to open the door to more candidates with non-traditional backgrounds, and for parents and role models to encourage all young people to look at opportunities in tech when they think about their career options.”

Thibodeaux explains that a great first step is to speak with young people in plain and simple language about what a career in technology truly entails. That includes making sure they understand that working in tech isn’t always about engineering, coding, calculus and Silicon Valley. It’s also about customer service,

teamwork, curiosity, communication and problem solving. It means working for any size company in any industry and in any location.

Equally important, young people need to know about the many resources available to them to learn about careers in tech, network with others who share their interests and acquire the skills that will help them land a job. Here are a few examples: • The Technology Student Association is a national, nonprofit career and technical student organization of 250,000-plus middle school and high school students that offers exciting opportunities in networking, competitions, leadership and community service. For more information, visit tsaweb.org

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• The National Cyber League offers students of all ages game-meetsedutainment competitions simulating real-life cyberthreats in a safe environment so students can learn how to defend against threats. To learn more, visit nationalcyberleague.org • TechGirlz inspires middle school girls to explore the possibilities of technology through the creation of free, fun, interactive “TechShopz” led by industry professionals, community leaders and students. Get the details at techgirlz.org.

The tech industry is in the midst of a massive new wave of innovation. Advances in renewable energy, artificial intelligence, bionics, robotics, healthcare and many other areas are changing virtually every walk of life. To turn these possibilities into realities, millions of knowledge workers and technology professionals will be needed.

“Don’t think that you need to be a math or science genius or that you need to have coding skills or that if you’re not good at ‘computational thinking’ you don’t have a chance. All you need is confidence in yourself,” says Thibodeaux.

Source: StatePoint

March 2021 | 7

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8 | March 2021 ENTREPRENEUR

Photo Caption: From left to right, Jena Holliday and Kalilah Wright

Love and Life Inspire

Success for Two Black Women Entrepreneurs By d-mars.com News Provider

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and not meant to be like everyone else."

Holliday's parents taught her that from a young age, which she feels freed her creative spirit and drives her to positively impact the Black community.

Holliday wants her journey and her illustrations to motivate others, especially young Black women, to face fear and find their voice. "Your voice matters, your culture matters, your background and experience matter," she said. "You matter because you are here."

Her business, started in 2014, took time to emerge into what it is today. For those looking to emulate Holliday's journey, her sage advice satisfies both the emotional and professional ambition it requires to take that leap of faith and start paving a new path. *Start small: "A start is a start.

Remember to accept and work with what you have and create the best version of you and your talent that you can right now. A spoonful is all you need to start." *Be honest: "If you understand

wo rising, women entrepreneurs - Jena Holliday and Kalilah Wright - have found their voice and are using it to spread Black joy, solidify Black representation in retail and shine a spotlight on what success looks like. With the help of Target, Holliday and Wright's stories were told via the retailer's Black History Month campaign last month, celebrating the creators building Black economic vitality and leaving a strong legacy for future generations.

With just a bit of faith, illustrator and author Jena Holliday walked away from her mainstream marketing job to embrace her passion for art. What started as a hobby eventually evolved into a fulltime commitment of spreading kindness and hope through her drawings depicting Black women. That commitment blossomed into a blog, aptly named Spoonful of Faith, and has thus become not only a successful business but a cultural beacon.

"Authenticity is the Authenticity is the most most valuable quality valuable quality to me,” said Holliday. to me," said Holliday.

“Portraying Black women as raw and "Portraying Black women as raw and honest is honest is what I know how to do, and what I know how to do, I feel it shows other aspiring creators and I feel it shows other aspiring creators to lean to lean into who they uniquely are. We into who they uniquely are all unique and not meant to be like are. We are all unique

everyone else.”

yourself 100%, including what you can and cannot carry, you'll produce great work. And, be honest with your support team and let them know where you need help." *Trust your uniqueness: "Believe you are creative and listen to your heart. Creativity shows up in so many ways, so don't be afraid to try things that fall out of your wheelhouse." *Live life: "Try new creative outlets to help nurture your personal spirit.

Read books, watch movies, draw, write poetry, dance, sing, laugh or listen.

Find the joy in living by nourishing your soul."

Unafraid to use her words to send a message, activist and apparel designer Kalilah Wright bottles authentic and unapologetic phrases about being Black in every clear canister from her company Mess in a Bottle. Printed proudly across the front of her tops, declarations like, "A Black Woman Created This" and "There Are Those Who Will Change History, And Those Who Will Be Sad They Didn't Try" give a voice to the voiceless and allow people to express themselves without having to say anything at all.

"My messages are about love, life, career and current events - they are depictions of my life and things going on around me as a Black woman in the Black community," said Wright. "I want people to be able to walk past each other and stand in solidarity with each other, that's why I chose apparel."

Like her clothing, Wright offers

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no-nonsense insight for others striving for Black success. *Find your authenticity: "Success looks different for everyone, so march to the beat of your own drum - people will listen." *Embrace the courage to keep going: "Fear can handicap you but only if you let it; always be moving forward." *Utilize the tools you have: "Resources and money don't have to be abundant but be resourceful and budget concise every step of the way." *Stay business minded: "Keep focused on business first and know that if the business succeeds, then you will have another platform from which you can speak your truth."

Holliday and Wright credit much of their success to strong Black female mentorship. With guidance and support, Black voices can rise up. Both Holliday, a middle child of seven with four sisters plus a mom always telling her to "go for it" and Wright, mentored by savvy businesswoman Cici Gunn, understand that being part of this Target campaign gives them the opportunity to uplift other Black women.

Holliday and Wright are two examples of the many success stories of Black entrepreneurs and products Target highlighted during Black History Month and all year round. Visit Target's Black Beyond Measure Shop for more information at www.target.com.

Source: BPT

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March 2021 | 9 June 2020 | 9

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HEALTH & WELLNESS JOURNAL

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

March 2021

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Inspire, Inform & Educate

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13th Edition

President Biden

Taps Meharry Medical College President for COVID Task Force

Photo Caption: Meharry Medical College President and CEO Dr. James Hildreth.

18

INSIDE

12

Is It Allergies or COVID-19?

7 Symptoms To Watch

13

How and Why to Improve the Fit of Your Mask Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

24

President Biden Applauded for Reopening of Obamacare Enrollment

10 | March 2021 HEALTH

Is It Allergies or COVID-19?

7 Symptoms To Watch By d-mars.com News Provider

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OVID-19 is complicating the 2021 spring allergy season. From watery eyes to dry coughs, people are left wondering exactly what their symptoms mean.

"Many people are asking about the differences between COVID-19 and seasonal allergies," says Dr. Luz Fonacier, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). "While it isn't always cut and dried, there are some clear differences. Certain symptoms are only seen in one or the other."

If you are unsure what is ailing you, Fonacier suggests checking with a professional. "Allergists are the best trained medical professionals to diagnose and treat allergies and asthma," she said. "When in doubt, talk to an allergist."

To help shed some light on the differences between COVID-19 and spring allergies, here are seven common symptoms and their possible causes.

Coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath are the calling cards of COVID-19. Unfortunately, these symptoms may also indicate an asthma-like allergic response. Many people who suffer from asthma also have allergies. If you are coughing this spring, consider the context. Is shortness of breath something you have experienced during previous springs? Do you have additional symptoms, like fever or itchy eyes? The answers to

these questions will help you distinguish the root cause.

Fever does NOT occur with spring allergies. Fever may indicate COVID-19, the flu or - more rarely - the common cold. The combination of fever, coughing, shortness of breath and loss of smell or taste is a strong indicator of COVID-19 and must be taken seriously.

Chills happen when the blood vessels in your skin constrict, causing you to feel cold without an obvious cause. Allergies do not cause chills, but COVID-19 does. If you are experiencing mild chills it is a good idea to self-isolate as a precaution. If you are experiencing chills in combination with shortness of breath, call your doctor to see if you should be tested for COVID-19.

Sneezing and runny nose are rarely seen in COVID-19 cases. They are, however, very common for allergy sufferers. If the spring has left you sneezing and sniffling in the past, then seasonal allergies are still the most likely culprit in 2021. You can talk to a board-certified allergist about treatment options, which may include over-thecounter or prescription medication, or immunotherapy.

Itchy, watery eyes are the signature symptom of seasonal allergies. COVID-19 does not cause itchy eyes, but the practice of staying home may help by reducing your exposure to pollen. Avoidance, or the strategy of staying away from potential allergens, may help decrease symptoms. If avoidance is not cutting it, it may be time to speak with an allergist. The ACAAI makes connecting with an allergist simple on their Find an Allergist page.

Loss of smell or taste is another very

common symptom of COVID-19. While allergies may lead to mild loss of smell, it is best to be on the safe side while the coronavirus is still spreading. If you experience this symptom, call your doctor for advice.

Nausea or vomiting are not allergy symptoms. They may indicate the common cold, the flu or COVID-19.

If this symptom is mild then self-isolating is a good course of action. If it becomes severe, and particularly if it is accompanied by fever and shortness of breath, you should call your doctor. They will be able to advise you on whether to get tested or seek medical help.

Understanding the differences between COVID-19 and seasonal allergies is key to keeping healthy this spring.

Stay on top of the season by knowing your symptoms and knowing what is typical for you. If you have any questions or want to get started finding allergy relief, check out the resources ACAAI has to offer.

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Source: BPT

March 2021 | 11 HEALTH

How and Why to Improve the FIT of Your MASK By d-mars.com News Provider

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s more Americans get vaccinated against COVID-19, you may find yourself out and about more. Whether you’re returning to the workplace or just getting a haircut, mask requirements may be in place in certain venues you frequent.

New Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations highlight the importance of snugly fitting masks. The good news is that innovations are helping people secure the fit of their masks, and, at the same time, solve some of the most common complaints they have when wearing them.

“As we began to wear masks in 2020, we found ourselves frustrated by things like fogging glasses and slipping masks. Our team has extensive experience solving health-related challenges and thought there had to be a way to address this,” says Dave Franchino, co-founder at MaskTite, a company that makes a medical-grade, double-sided tape designed to adhere to the inside of a mask for a more secure fit.

Fr a nc h i no, with his background in medical product design, set to work with his team to design a way to give people of all face sizes and shapes a fast and easy way to make every mask fit better. Made of skin-safe, medical-grade, adhesive tape, MaskTite strips eliminate common mask problems like gaps, fogging glasses and slipping, and are sized for adults and children.

Here Franchino explains how to solve some of most common mask woes, some of which you’ve likely experienced: • Loose fit and slipping masks: Readjusting your mask when it starts to slip is not always possible, whether it’s because you have your hands full of groceries or work tools or you simply want to avoid touching your face. Keeping the mask affixed to your face with tape can eliminate slipping when it matters most, and achieve a tighter fit, supporting the latest CDC recommendations.

• Foggy glasses: The warm air of your breath escaping from the top of your mask can quickly make glasses foggy, causing a new hazard -- an inability to see. While it can be tough to find a mask that fits securely enough to eliminate fog, applying a solution like MaskTite to the inside of your mask means you can get a proper fit and better visibility, no matter what mask you’re using.

• Irritating straps: A tight-fitting mask is great in many respects, but the straps can put a strain on the backs of one’s ears. Plus, there are times when mask straps can simply be in the way, such as when you’re getting a haircut. Securing your mask to your face with tape means you can go strap-free.

Waterproof and hypoallergenic, MaskTite strips can improve mask fit in a variety of environments, including healthcare, schools, retail and restaurant settings, salons, offices, manufacturing and more. Packaged in a resealable, plastic pouch that’s easy to throw into a pocket, purse, backpack or briefcase, they are currently available for sale through Amazon. MaskTite is made in the U.S. from U.S. materials. Learn more at MaskTite.com.

“From fogging glasses to slipping, nearly every issue that stems from wearing a mask is related to the mask’s fit. For those spending a lot of time in a mask, at school, work or elsewhere, a good mask-wearing experience can make all the difference,” says Franchino.

Source: StatePoint

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12 | March 2021

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BUSINESS JOURNAL

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

March 2021

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Inspire, Inform & Educate

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In the Midst of COVID-19,

The R.O.C.K. Excels and Expands!

Dr. Dana Carson, Apostle & Senior Leader of The R.O.C.K. Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

163RD Edition

14 | March 2021

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od has smiled on this ministry, and The R.O.C.K. is now adding to its ministry portfolio. The R.O.C.K. is not the typical church, and its founder and senior leader, Dr. Dana Carson, is not the typical church leader. Instead of using 2020 as a time for rest and relaxation, which he and the ministry definitely needed, Dr. Carson led The R.O.C.K. in accomplishing one of the ministry’s largest goals – acquiring the new R.O.C.K. Cathedral, Conference Center, and Kingdom Theological Seminary, formerly the Park Place Baptist Church and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, located at 4101 Broadway (Houston, TX 77087).

According to Dr. Carson, "The year 2020 was not just a year of disruption for our world, but it was also a year of divine disruption for God's church!" For over 10 years, the church had attempted to acquire this campus, but had been unable to due to challenges beyond their control. But in spite of all of their challenges, the church believes that God worked a miracle when the 100,000+ sq.ft. campus was offered to them for purchase in February 2020! The owners offered The R.O.C.K. this magnificent campus just one month before the world entered into a mandatory shelter in place, and all churches were forced to close their doors due to the pandemic. This is why Dr. Carson and the church believe that 2020 was a divine disruption. Carson stated, "Why would God open the door for this campus NOW? Why would He wait until the world was about to experience a global shutdown and tell us to rise and build?

Because it was a divine disruption,

The year 2020 was not just a year of disruption for our world, but it was also a year of divine disruption for God’s church!

and God knows what He has in store for His church and us as a ministry!"

The R.O.C.K. is a Bible-centered, Spirit-filled, Community-building, and Kingdom-minded church that desires to impact all generations, and the world, for the Kingdom of God. Its ministry programs are strategically outlined to execute the church's vision.

TheKingdom KingdomTheological Theological The Seminary (KTS) Seminary (KTS) Dr. Dana Carson is giving birth to the 'first of its kind' Kingdom Theological Seminary. This is a relevant and prophetic seminary, opening on the heels of racial division and disparity in Southern Baptist seminaries over the critical race theory.

The irony of this purchase is that, for a decade, the Southwestern Baptist Texas Convention (SBTC) refused to sell the Park Place Baptist Church and the Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary campus to The R.O.C.K. based on denominational and ethnic discriminations – The R.O.C.K. is an African American-led, Kingdomminded, and Spirit-filled church. But despite their challenges, Dr. Carson and The R.O.C.K. were able to secure the purchase of the seminary and the former Park Place Baptist Church in May 2020, while continuing to provide ministry to the Houston area. Let's take a look at the Kingdom Theological Seminary!

Why would God ope NOW? Why would He experience a global sh Because it was a divi has in store for His ch

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March 2021 | 15

Research suggests that over 95% of all pastors and church leaders have no theological training. And when it comes to African Americans, this number increases substantially. There is a tremendous void for theological training for black and brown clergy worldwide. Dr. Carson has filled this void by providing the Kingdom Theological Seminary, which focuses on the Kingdom of God rather than the sociological church.

The KTS teaching staff and faculty consist of some of the most prominent scholarly practitioners in the Body of Christ who have teamed together from every denominational background to form a Kingdom theological seminary that can reach the world with a sound and highly credible theological education.

Why Does the KTS Focus on the Kingdom of God? In addition to biblical illiteracy, one of the other challenges within Christianity today is the great divide that exists in churches over racism, classism, sexism, and denominationalism. These struggles are the

result of not accurately teaching the scriptures, because those who interpreted the scriptures removed them from their original context.

Dr. Dana Carson, the founder and chancellor of KTS, believes that through KTS, many church leaders and serious Bible students will get the opportunity to learn theology in its original Jewish context, devoid of the effects of Romanization, Europeanization, Colonization, Westernization, and

the events of George Floyd and other African Americans who were murdered at the hands of white police officers. We saw it again in the 2020 election when white Evangelicals proclaimed former President, Donald Trump, to be God's choice, and then pronounced curses upon those who stole the election.

Thus, it's time for us to understand the scriptures as they were intended to be understood." – The Five Watersheds of History and Theology, 2020

The mission of KTS is to provide a more balanced look at the scriptures. KTS will give students the opportunity to hear from black and brown scholars who are academically trained and equipped to teach at the highest level of academia.

Americanization of the gospel, which Carson termed "the five watersheds." Carson states: "Unfortunately, these watersheds have had a negatively profound impact on Christianity worldwide, but particularly in America. We saw this in 2020 when many white Evangelical churches didn't stand up against racism in

en the door for our campus expansion e wait until the world was about to hutdown and tell us to rise and build? ine disruption, and God knows what He hurch and us as a ministry!

tle & Senior Leader of The R.O.C.K. Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

The KTS Difference: What Makes KTS Different from Other Seminaries?

The Kingdom Theological Seminary is considered to be a disruptive seminary that takes a holistic approach to theological training and is designed to prepare students for handson instruction customized to each learner’s need.

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Oftentimes, when students complete the traditional model of seminary, they are unable to use 85% of the things they learned in practical ministry. KTS is designed to prepare the learner for 21st century ministry that is based upon their interests, areas, and focuses in ministry.

What else makes KTS different from other seminaries?

• It's Affordable – It's the place where you can study for the rest of your life without having student loans for the rest of your life.

• It's Achievable – It offers 8-week courses, which cater to the needs of adult learners.

• It's Accessible – It offers courses both online and on campus. You can enroll

in the KTS no matter where you are in the world!

• It's Credible – The faculty and staff consist of major scholarly practitioners in the Body of Christ with earned masters and doctorate degrees in theology and related fields of study.

• It's Customizable – It allows you to customize your education to fit your individual ministry needs. You can choose certification modules or individual classes that can be applied toward your degree.

KTS is truly “disruptive” – it doesn't force a set of unusable courses on you and waste your time and money. Instead, students are able to put together their own cluster

of certifications that best fit their ministry needs. KTS provides a custom-designed theological education and training that is second to none!

Another great feature of KTS is its digital and on the library campus! This library houses world renowned, online, biblical resources that will allow students to research any theological subject at their fingertips through the use of technology.

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KTS Education Programs The K ingdom Theological Seminary is an extension of the online undergraduate school, the Kingdom Bible University (KBU). KTS ensures that students will walk away with the theological tools

March 2021 | 17

requires coursework, an oral exam, a dissertation, and a doctoral board defense.

to fit the learners’ ministry environment and ensure that their education is relevant to their ministry context. This program includes course choices such as: entrepreneurship, business, children’s ministry, youth ministry, and other ministry focuses.

5. Master of Theology and Leadership

– The Master of Theology and Leadership

and resources they need and can begin to use in their ministries immediately after each course and/or certification. KTS offers the following certifications and degree programs:

Certifications Certifications The certification programs include clusters of five courses in a given subject matter. Each of the certifications can be used as credits towards a degree. Some of the certification topics are: • Children’s Ministry • Youth Ministry • Staffing Your Church • Introduction to the Kingdom • Personal Finances and Ministry • Entrepreneurship • Leadership • Organizational Management

Students will also be able to customize their certification clusters by self-selecting five courses from an array of qualifying course offerings.

DegreePrograms Programs Degree cc offers five masters programs and two doctoral programs, which include: 1. Master of Divinity – The Master of Divinity (MDiv) is a professional degree for the pastoral profession. It is a high-level degree that provides a well-rounded theological education for anyone seeking a theological education.

2. Master of Kingdom Theology – The

Master of Kingdom Theology (MKT) is our featured and uniquely offered Kingdom degree program. This program is based upon the original Kingdom of God message in its Jewish context. There is not another program in existence that provides this level of expertise and knowledge on the original message of Jesus and the Kingdom of God. This master’s degree was developed by one of the most renowned scholars concerning the Kingdom of God, Dr. Dana Carson. Dr. Carson has written over 200 books in the area of the Kingdom of God. This discipline is what KTS is highly recognized for; it will prepare its students to become highly engaged in 21st century Kingdom ministry.

3. Master of Urban Church Growth – The Master of Urban Church Growth

(MUCG) focuses upon the development of a biblical Kingdom framework for the evangelistic mission of the church. The program involves analysis of contemporary trends in church growth in the urban context and empowers the learner with effective tools for church growth. The degree focuses on theological, methodological, and contemporary issues in evangelism and church growth. The program focuses on the study of church growth principles with special attention given to theological, cultural, and indigenous principles, which may affect the rate and pattern of church growth. The program also focuses upon church growth in the global context.

4. Master of Practical Ministry – The Master of Practical Ministry (MPM) is an advanced degree, equivalent to the M.Div., but is designed to fully prepare learners for practical ministry in the local church.

The program is designed to be customized

(MTL) is a specialized master's program that provides the learner both a foundation in theology and leadership. The program provides the tools for biblical studies and effective leadership. The program is designed to assist the learner in their theological pilgrimage, while providing them with the tools needed to lead a ministry, nonprofit, or church organization. Leadership training and education is the secondary focus of the KTS, which makes this degree a very unique but relevant field of study.

This degree brings theological reflection and leadership together in a unique program and builds the students’ knowledge of Christian theological traditions, while helping them gain insight and real tools to become a more effective leader in their church, organization, and community.

6. Doctor of Ministry in Practical Theology – The Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

is the highest-level, professional degree that prepares ministry professionals for effective, full-time ministry. The Doctor of Ministry in Practical Ministry program is a customized degree that focuses upon theological studies with an emphasis in church growth and evangelism, worship, fivefold ministry, leadership and business, and pastoral care ministry. This degree is a professional doctorate that will emphasize the skills used in a practical ministry setting. The degree will assist the leader in improving their leadership, personal disciplines, and congregational growth.

This degree requires a ministry project or dissertation and a doctoral board defense.

7. Doctor of Kingdom Theology – The Doctor of Kingdom Theology (DKT) degree is an academic degree that blends academics and Kingdom-based ministry.

This degree is designed to provide the learner with a deep dive into the Kingdom of God based upon its original Jewish context.

This program will study Second Temple Judaism scholars and their work concerning the historical Jesus and His message of the Kingdom of God. The program will involve research and exploration into the Jewish mindset or the Rabbi Jesus and His understanding of the Kingdom of God. The program requires that students have taken both Greek and Hebrew, which will allow them to understand the ancient context of the Kingdom of God. The program

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The Bridge Program The Bridge Program is a dual degree program, where a person can receive a Bachelor of Kingdom Theology and a Master of Kingdom Theology. The bachelor’s degree (BKT) is designed to provide the learner with a basic theological education that focuses upon the undergraduate level of studies, encompassing a sound holistic theological education with a special emphasis in Kingdom Theology.

The master's degree provides a deeper and more investigative approach to the Kingdom on a graduate level, which includes research and writing. The Bridge Program combines both the bachelor’s and the master’s degrees and reduces the overall courses needed for completion of the undergraduate degree.

For more information about The Kingdom Theological Seminary, please visit ktseminary.com/info.

Cathedral&&Conference ConferenceCenter Center Cathedral The R.O.C.K. Cathedral and Conference Center is a 2,300+ seat auditorium that will host worship services, conferences, concerts, and other large events including graduations, weddings, and plays. The conference center also includes a 500-800 seat chapel and commercial kitchen, which can also be rented for community and personal events.

Dr. Carson and The R.O.C.K. believe that the cathedral and conference center will be a beacon of light and a refuge for many in the Southeast Houston community. Even though many churches have yet to open their doors again, The R.O.C.K. believes that it's just a matter of time. Carson stated, "I completely understand people's apprehensions about returning to church, because of how serious COVID-19 is. Yet, I also believe that, as a society, we will return to corporate gatherings in the future. For example, entertainment houses like movie theaters, sports arenas, concert venues, etc., are not going to remain closed forever.

Thus, I believe the church, as a whole, is eventually going to reopen its doors. And when we do, we have to be ready. We have to continue offering church phygitally (physically and digitally) to reach every generation for the Kingdom of God."

For campus updates and inquiries, please contact their administrative office at info@TheROCKWOI.com or call 281.824.1960.

Currently,The TheR.O.C.K. R.O.C.K.conducts conducts Currently, services both online and inservices both online and inperson: person: • Every Sunday at 10am and 6pm • Wednesdays at 7pm at the Edgebrook campus - 9321 Edgebrook Dr. Houston, TX 77075

To protect those who physically attend their services, the church has implemented mask wearing, social distancing, hand sanitizing measures, and temperature checks upon entrance into each building.

All buildings are cleaned and professionally sanitized after each service.

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Booker T. Washington Empowerment Center The Booker T. Washington Empowerment Center is a 21st-century approach to community empowerment by providing individuals with access to the skill sets and knowledge that will equip them for both the business and work/career worlds.

The BTW Empowerment Center will provide the tools and resources to either obtain employment or begin a business. The uniqueness of this empowerment center is its focus on assisting the underprivileged, primarily those who have challenges entering or reentering the workforce due to the lack of education or a criminal background. This center will house the Carson School of Leadership & Entrepreneurship, Geneva's School of Culinary & Barista Training, Process Operations Certification, Pharmacy Technician Certification, Information Technology Certification, Louise Coleman-Eubanks School of Nursing, Walker JG School of Electrician Training, and The Empowerment Counseling Center.

Youth and Young Adult Empowerment Center (Edgebrook and Alvin Campuses) The Youth and Young Adult Empowerment Center will serve to combat the rising rate

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of youth and young adult homelessness in Southeast Houston. Through this empowerment center, The R.O.C.K. will provide a homeless youth and young adult program that will educate and provide youth and young adults with the necessary resources and skill sets to become healthy and productive citizens of society, including GED and ESL programs.

Vocational Training Center (Edgebrook Campus and Alvin Campuses) The Vocational Training Center will provide specialty skill set training in the areas of HVAC, carpentry, welding, and plumbing.

Leadership Development and Training Corporation The Leadership Development and Training Corporation endeavors to both equip and empower leaders to effectively lead with high levels of efficiency in the 21st century. It will provide a youth and young adult leadership program and an online school of leadership.

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Carson Academy of Kingdom Excellence School (C.A.K.E.) Currently, the C.A.K.E. school in the Mukuru Kwa Njenga slum of Nairobi, Kenya, educates nearly 500 children from kindergarten to the 8th grade.

Their vision is to establish Carson Academies of Kingdom Excellence (CAKE) throughout the slums of Nairobi, Kenya, and other select countries and continents. These schools will provide children with access to a holistic and quality education that gives them a C.H.A.N.C.E (Children Having Access to Nutrition, Care, and Education) at success in life that is built upon both vision and values.

Their vision is also to expand the school into a high school then launch the Exchange Student Program – Back to Africa. This program will partner with HBCUs to provide students the opportunity to come to America to study abroad

and gain the knowledge and skill sets they need to go back and strengthen their countries.

A.C.T.S. Athletics Program The Assisting Children Towards Success (A.C.T.S.) Corporation is a mentoring and motivation program with the purpose of identifying male and female children and youth between the ages of 1018 who desire to improve their athletic skill sets, while working towards a foundation for success through scholastic achievement. Through their three full court gymnasiums and outdoor sports courts, this athletics program will conduct children and youth basketball leagues, church basketball leagues, the Carson Summer Classic basketball tournament, skill camps, and tournaments.

Perpetuity Construction Company The Perpetuity Construction Company will be located in Alvin, TX. This company will specialize in design, engineering, project management, and construction. This company will be open for public clients and provide access to an architectural design firm and real estate services.

Kingdom Wall Street (221 acres) In 2016, The R.O.C.K. burned the mortgage on 221 acres in the Rosharon, Texas, area (FM 521 and FM 1462), just 30 minutes south of downtown

Houston. This land will host retail centers, restaurants, clothing stores, grocery stores, a banking and investment corporation, a leadership development and team building corporation, a business incubator, and a center for technology. This initiative will also host a vocational program, which will include training programs such as, HVAC, electrician, plumbing, culinary, healthcare professions, and basic engineering skills. This land will also house an elite private school (Pre-K through 12th grade), an African American studies center and library, a center for economic empowerment, a R.O.C.K. church campus, park areas around the detention ponds, an entertainment center and a performing arts center, housing developments, senior living facilities, a healthcare center, a convention center and hotels, and a camping and farming site.

The R.O.C.K. is a multi-generational, multicultural, multi-continent, and multi-campus church with a mission to know God, make Him known to others, and spread the Kingdom message worldwide.

Their goal is to help usher as many people as possible into the Kingdom of God through participating in evangelism and discipleship. For more information on The R.O.C.K., please visit www.TheROCKWOI.com.

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20 | March 2021

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March 2021 | 21 HEALTH

HEALTH

CDC: Life Expectancy of Black Men Has Dropped by Three Years

President Biden

Taps Meharry Medical College President for COVID Task Force

By Lauren Victoria Burke NNPA Newswire

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Photo Caption: Meharry Medical College President and CEO Dr. James Hildreth.

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M

eharry Medical College President and CEO Dr. James Hildreth has been named

by President Joe Biden as a member of his COVID-19 Health Equity Task Force.

Dr. Hildreth, the renowned immunologist and academic administrator and Meharry’s 12th president, sat on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration board that approved the first U.S. coronavirus vaccines.

“I am honored to be chosen by President Biden as a member of the COVID-19 Health Equity Task Force.

We are facing one of the largest challenges in the history of our nation,” Dr. Hildreth wrote in a statement.

“COV ID-19 has killed hundreds of thousands of Americans, and if adequate steps are not taken, this number will continue to grow. As we have seen, COVID-19 does not discriminate, it does not respect borders, and it does not behave according to our timelines,” Dr. Hildreth added.

The United States has reported more than 27.2 million cases of the virus, and the death toll is nearing 470,000.

Immediately following his Jan. 21 swearing-in, President Biden issued a national strategy for the COVID-19 response and pandemic preparedness.

“For the past year, we could not turn to the federal government for a national plan to answer prayers with action – until today,” President Biden stated.

He then issued a 200-page report outlining a national strategy to beat the pandemic.

The President called it a comprehensive plan that starts with restoring public trust and mounting an aggressive, safe, and effective vaccination campaign.

“It continues with the steps we know that stop the spread like expanded masking, testing, and social distancing. It’s a plan where the federal government works with states, cities, Tribal communities, and private industry to increase supply and administer testing and the vaccines that will help reopen schools and businesses safely,” President Biden remarked.

“Equity will also be central to our strategy so that the communities and people being disproportionately infected and killed by the pandemic receive the care they need and deserve.”

The President further noted that defeating the pandemic would take Congress providing the necessary funding, and families and neighbors continuing to look out for one another.

He said the country would need health care providers, businesses, civic, religious and civil rights organizations, and unions all rallying together in common purpose and with urgency, purpose, and resolve.

“We will need to reassert America’s leadership in the world in the fight against this and future public health threats,” President Biden asserted.

Dr. Hildreth noted that the virus has had the largest impact on communities of color, among Black and brown Americans with underlying health conditions.

“Without our immediate attention and a national, organized effort to fight this virus, we will be dealing with its impact for years to come,” Dr. Hildreth remarked.

“As the President of a historically Black medical school that was founded to eradicate health disparities between majority and minority communities, this work is a focus for me and my institution. I am committed to working with our national leadership to develop cohesive plans that will address these silent killers - illnesses like COVID-19 that impact our most vulnerable populations at alarming rates,” Dr. Hildreth stated further.

“We must address the pandemic together. I am confident that President Biden’s heightened focus on the pandemic will accelerate testing, treatment and vaccinations nationwide – proven strategies that will work to mitigate the virus and protect our people.

“I look forward to working with my esteemed colleagues on the Task Force to restore health, wellbeing and stability to all of America.”

lack Americans have lost three years in life expectancy over the last two years according to estimates by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The decline is the largest since World War II. The life expectancy gap by race is now the widest since 1998 and at a 15-year low overall.

Non-Hispanic Black males now have the lowest life expectancy of any group. The new data shows that African Americans on average live six years less in life expectancy than Whites. The Covid-19 pandemic hit Black and Americans harder than any other group of Americans. Underlying health issues and lack of health care were a factor.

Overall, African Americans are hospitalized at three times the rate of white Americans. African Americans die at double the rate from COVID than all other groups according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The impact of COVID-19, which is the cause of 500,000 deaths in less than two years, is a leading cause, not just on deaths directly due to infection but also from heart disease, cancer and other conditions.

The definition of “life expectancy” is calculated by how long someone born today is expected to live. The average life expectancy last year was 77.8.

Though Covid-19 was clearly the driver of the depressing new statistics on life expectancy, drug overdoses and other health factors also factored into the data.

President Biden and Democrats in Congress are currently structuring a multi-billion COVID relief package.

Former President Trump largely ignored the coronavirus crisis as mortality numbers mounted. After Trump’s loss to Biden, departments of the federal government are focused on the COVID pandemic.

Source: NNPA

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Sources: NNPA Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

22 | March 2021 HEALTH

President Biden Applauded for Reopening of

Obamacare Enrollment

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire

A

fter four years of the previous administration’s efforts to destroy the Affordable Care Act (ACA), President Joe Biden has moved swiftly to repair damage done to President Obama’s signature legislation.

The Biden administration has reopened enrollment at Healthcare.gov through May 15 – though the timeline varies depending on the state – to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to obtain coverage.

The move is especially important as the nation continues to grapple with the coronavirus pandemic that has claimed more than 480,000 American lives.

Marcela Howell, president and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, applauded the new enrollment window and encouraged all without health insurance — especially in communities of color — to act now to enroll.

“We know that before the passage of the ACA, people of color accounted for 54 percent of the uninsured in the United States, even though they only make up 35 percent of the population.

Black women and other women of color — who already

face systemic barriers to accessing health care — were disproportionately impacted,” Howell determined.

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, about 9 million uninsured Americans are estimated to obtain free or subsidized health insurance during the special enrollment period.

Further, for those earning up to 400 percent of the federal poverty line – about $51,500 for one person and $106,000 for a family of four, government subsidies are available.

About 90 percent of those who sign up through Healthcare.gov receive subsidies, recent data revealed.

Popularly known as Obamacare, former President Barack Obama signed the ACA into law in 2010. The law expanded Medicaid and significantly lowered the cost of insurance for many Americans, particularly low-income residents.

According to statista.com, the full effects of Obamacare weren’t seen until 2013, when government-run insurance marketplaces such as HealthCare.gov

were opened. The number of Americans without health insurance fell significantly between 2010 and 2015, but began to rise after 2016 when Donald Trump took office and spent four years attempting to outlaw and dismantle the ACA. Reportedly, during the first half of 2019, over 27 percent of the Hispanic population in the United States didn’t have health insurance, up from a historical low of 19.3 percent in 2016. In 2019, the national average was 9.5 percent and Asian Americans had the lowest rate at 7.4 percent.

White Americans also had a below average rate at 9.8 percent, whereas 13.6 percent of Black Africans had no health insurance.

“During the last administration, due to actions to undermine enrollment, the number of people without health insurance increased for the first time since the ACA went into effect,” Howell noted further.

“Now we have a chance to provide health insurance for more people. We applaud the Biden-Harris administration for taking decisive action to make health insurance coverage more accessible by reopening enrollment for three months. Doing so surely will save lives and help protect people against financial insecurity.”

She continued: “We strongly urge those who are uninsured — especially women and people of color — to act now to enroll. Visit www.healthcare.gov to enroll. Given that states with their own insurance exchanges may have different enrollment periods, it is important for people without insurance to act immediately so they don’t miss the opportunity to get coverage.”

Source: NNPA

HEALTH

4 Easy Tips To Help Older Adults Stay Active at Home By d-mars.com News Provider

A

s the COVID-19 pandemic continues, many older adults are following the advice of public health experts and remaining at home to limit risk of exposure. Bad weather conditions can also keep people inside for days at a time. But a strong body and mind are as important as ever, and the good news is being indoors doesn’t mean having to give up on exercising.

There are many great health benefits to staying active, such as improving mobility and balance, developing muscle and bone strength, increasing energy and managing weight. Exercise can also reduce blood pressure and lower the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

According to Dr. Gina Conflitti, chief medical officer for Medicare at Cigna, the advantages aren’t just physical: “Keeping active has a positive impact on mental health, too,” she said. “With regular exercise, many

older adults enjoy better sleep, clearer thinking, lower stress and improved mood.”

According to Cigna, which serves many older adults through its Medicare Advantage plans, here are four simple tips for exercising in the comfort of home: 1. Make a plan. What is your long-term goal? Having something to work toward is great motivation to keep up daily activity and set yourself up for success.

Before you begin any physical activity, talk to your doctor about your health goals. Your doctor can provide guidance on exercises that are safe and attainable as you begin a new chapter of your wellness journey.

2. Take it slow. You don’t have to run a marathon or even lift weights to keep fit – the most important thing is to just move. Start by walking around your house a few times a day or doing some gentle stretching. Just adding five minutes of activity to your day can make a difference in your overall health and mood. As your body gets used to daily movement, you can enhance your physical activities as recommended by your health care provider.

3. Use what you have. You don’t need a gym to get a healthy workout. In fact, there are plenty of exercises you can do using items found around the house. For example, “chair dips” are an effective arm and shoulder workout – just place both feet on the ground, face away from a chair and support your body by putting your hands on the seat behind you with straight arms. Next, raise and lower yourself by bending and unbending your arms.

You can even exercise while seated.

Hold your leg out in front of you and

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trace each letter of the alphabet. Work your feet and leg muscles by laying a kitchen towel on the floor, then use your toes to grab, release and push the fabric.

4. Check your health care plan benefits. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you might be eligible for extra benefits such as at-home fitness programs, including free on-demand workouts accessible from your computer, smart device or phone, as well as gear, such as resistance bands.

Find more healthy aging and exercise tips at cigna.com/medicare/ healthy-aging/physical-activity.

“As you start, remember to be flexible and stay positive,” Dr. Conflitti suggests.

“Changing habits can take time, but every step is progress. If you haven’t reached a goal, don’t be hard on yourself – it’s most important to continue at your own pace.”

Source: StatePoint

March 2021 | 23

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24 | March 2021

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March 2021 | 25 WOMEN‘S HISTORY MONTH

Celebrating Women’s History Month

By Edward Pollard Contributing Writer

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arch is Women’s History Month – a month that gives us the opportunity to commemorate and celebrate the vital role of women in American history. There are so many women who never make headlines or evening news coverage, but accomplish heroic feats on a daily basis and contribute to the overall progress of women everywhere. As a boy being reared by a single mother, every day I witnessed my mother being superwoman. She had to provide for two children (one with autism), as well as take care of household responsibilities. She was a college professor during the day, a student studying for her doctorate in the evenings, and still had time to make it to every one of my basketball games, school performances, and everything else in between. From the outside looking in, she never displayed any worry or doubt; she never communicated any of her struggles or barriers, but I’m certain she had many. In classic woman form, she leaned on her strong faith, pressed forward, and did not make excuses. She made it happen.

As a Houston City Council Member, I have the privilege to serve with nine extraordinary women. When I was elected in 2019, I was the only male joining an incoming class of eight other women. On the campaign trail, I rarely heard people talk about the possibility of electing more women to council than men, but at our council freshman orientation, we all looked around the room and noticed, “wow, other than Pollard, it’s all women.”

For the first time in our city’s 183-year history, we have a majority of women on city council, serving in 9 of the 16 seats, each elected solely on intellect, merit, and hard work. Also, for the first time, we have five black female council members. In each of the historically African American districts (B, D, and K), all three are represented by black women. In the long history of District F, which represents primarily Alief, residents there have never elected a woman or black person before, until now. Additionally, we also have the first Muslim

woman serving on council in our city’s history.

We are seeing a political shift all over the nation, but especially locally here in Harris County. Women are outvoting men at the polls, and women are winning many bids for public office traditionally held by men.

Not only do we have more women than men on city council, we also have more women than men serving on judicial benches in our Harris County courts, as well as the first woman being elected Harris County Judge, our county’s highest ranking elected official.

However, for all the strides women continue to make in every space in society, they still face many barriers that need to be permanently knocked down, such as pay inequity, motherhood penalties, sexual harassment, and others. Many of the challenges women face have a foundation laid with a lack of respect for them and what they have to offer. The contributions of women must be not only acknowledged and celebrated, but they must be seen and felt in a tangible way from the living room to the board room. And in the words of the late Supreme Court Justice, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, “Women belong in all places where decisions are being made.”

In my own life, the contributions and sacrifices of my wife – the first in her family to graduate from college, then earn her law degree – have allowed me to pursue many of my own ambitions. Moreover, every person can likely think of many women who have poured into their lives to shape you into who you are. We must value women, for without them there would be no us. Women are phenomenal, and I am honored to recognize them for Women’s History Month, where I have no doubt that as the history book continues to be written, the pages will be filled with more progression, accomplishment, and success.

FINANCE

Comerica Bank

Appoints Summer Faussette National African American Business Development Manager By d-mars.com News Provider

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omerica Bank announced it has appointed Summer Faussette as its National African American Business Development Manager supporting its ongoing commitment to building strong relationships with African American business leaders, entrepreneurs and communities across all markets. These responsibilities are an extension of Faussette's current role as Vice President, External Affairs - Arizona.

As National African American Business Development Manager, Faussette will collaborate with Comerica's African American Business Resource Groups, Chief Diversity Officer Nate Bennett, and Chief Community Officer Irvin Ashford, Jr. on building external partnerships with African American nonprofit organizations across the bank's national footprint.

"Summer brings with her a wealth of experience and knowledge, which will benefit

us as we continue to support initiatives that engage African American communities across our markets," said Ashford, Jr. "Comerica's hallmark is building relationships and this role will allow us to continue strengthening partnerships with nonprofits and community leaders who do so much for our communities," said Faussette. "I am also honored to accept these new responsibilities and broaden Comerica's reach in our communities."

A veteran of more than 17 years in the financial services industry, Faussette will continue to oversee Arizona's Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) activities, which include CRA volunteerism, civic and community relations, internal and external CRA strategic planning, and fostering community partnerships and investments.

Pivotal to the external affairs team's outreach includes the Business Bootcamps and Comerica Money $ense programs that have gone virtual since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Comerica's impact on local communities in 2020 was felt through the more than 110 of the business

bootcamps hosted across for working in our communiits markets, assisting ties and will serve to play an 1,250 small businesses. instrumental role in developing And, more than 35,000 ways to strengthen our racial low- to moderate-income equity efforts internally and individuals took part in externally," said Bennett. financial education sesComerica Bank is a subsidisions and in 2021 it looks ary of Comerica Incorporated to increase its reach.

(NYSE: CMA), a financial serIn late 2020, Comerica vices company headquartered also moved $10 mil- Summer Faussette, National in Dallas, Texas, and strategiAfrican American Business lion in deposits to Development Manager cally aligned by three business segments: The Commercial Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs), as Bank, The Retail Bank, and well as established mutual mentoring re- Wealth Management. Comerica focuslationships with these institutions. MDIs es on relationships, and helping people assist minority and underserved commu- and businesses be successful. In addition nities and foster economic viability in their to Texas, Comerica Bank locations can communities. Specifically, Comerica al- be found in Arizona, California, Florida located $2.5 million to each selected and Michigan, with select businesses opMDI, including First Independence Bank erating in several other states, as well as in Detroit, Mich.; Broadway Federal Bank in Canada and Mexico. Comerica reported in Los Angeles, Calif.; Unity National total assets of $88 billion as of Dec. 31, Bank in Houston, Texas; and Commercial 2020.

Bank of California in Irvine, Calif.

"Summer has demonstrated a passion SOURCE Comerica Incorporated

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26 | March 2021 FINANCE

U.S. Bank Launches New Approach to Build Wealth and Create Access for Diverse Communities

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire

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.S. Bank recently announced details of its U.S. Bank Access Commitment, a long-term approach bringing the strengths of U.S. Bancorp Community Development Corporation (USBCDC), corporate social responsibility and its business lines, to help build wealth while redefining how the bank serves diverse communities and provides more opportunities for diverse employees.

Access Commitment will focus on three primary areas: supporting businesses owned by people of color, helping individuals and communities of color advance economically and enhancing career opportunities for employees and prospective employees. The ongoing work – which will include projects from across U.S. Bank’s diverse portfolio of businesses – builds on the $116 million commitment made by U.S. Bank in 2020 including increased supplier spend, innovative products, services and transformative customer experiences and long-term place-based partnerships with the goal of addressing the persistent racial wealth gap, starting with the Black community.

Thisinitial initiallaunch launchincludes: includes: This • A new $25 million microbusiness fund focused on businesses owned by women of color • A mortgage program focused on homeownership education and hiring • A focus on building sustained wealth as part of U.S. Bank’s wealth management business • Financial inclusion partnerships • Supply chain financing focused on diverse businesses • Customized employee leadership development • A change to how U.S. Bank fills open positions within the organization

“We believe access to capital for minority small business, housing and homeownership and workforce advancement creates opportunities for systemic change,” said Andy Cecere, Chairman, President and CEO of U.S. Bank. “U.S. Bank Access Commitment is our approach to building wealth and supporting individuals and small business owners through a series of business initiatives throughout 2021 and beyond. We are committed to be part of the solution.”

Supportingbusinesses businessesowned by people of Supporting owned by people of color color $25 million microbusiness fund The U.S. Bank Foundation and USBCDC will provide $25 million in grants and investments through a new microbusiness fund for businesses owned by women of color. The fund is focused on providing access to capital, technical assistance and networking. USBCDC will provide $20 million in debt capital to Black-led and women-focused community development financial institutions (CDFIs). U.S. Bank Foundation will provide $5 million in grants to support expansion, capacity building, technical assistance and mentorship/networking. More on the fund, including selected partners will be shared in the coming weeks.

Expanding finance opportunities for diverse businesses U.S. Bank’s Global Trade and Supply Chain Finance teams will expand existing efforts to provide trade financing to more diverse businesses, with a focus on

supply chain finance. The team will work with U.S. Bank corporate and commercial banking customers to optimize working capital for diverse-owned businesses.

It will do this by providing bilateral access to U.S. Bank’s receivables purchase program so they can provide competitive payment terms to their buyers but be paid earlier than the due date. This will help free up much needed capital by improving cash flow and enhancing their sales effort.

During 2020, U.S. Bank launched financial wellness coach programs in Aurora, Colorado, and in the Pullman neighborhood of Chicago in partnership with Operation HOPE. The goal is to increase credit scores, savings and confidence, with an emphasis on serving people of color and underbanked individuals. Additionally, U.S. Bank will soon begin a new financial wellness pilot in Columbus, Ohio, offering financial education classes to high school students.

Expanding USBCDC’s ongoing commitment to racial equity USBCDC continues to look across its business for ways to deepen relationships with partners that are Black-owned, Black-led or are prioritizing racial equity in their work. For example, it’s prioritizing patient and lower-cost capital to Black-led CDFIs through a partnership with the African American Alliance of CDFI CEOs; removing barriers and providing stronger support to Black-led affordable housing developers; and using an intermediary community development entity (CDE) model to create opportunities for Black-led CDFIs and CDEs to earn revenue, build experience and receive their own New Markets Tax Credit allocation.

Building Black wealth U.S. Bank recently conducted a survey* of approximately 4,600 people to better understand the wealth management needs of various populations (Black, Asian, Hispanic and Caucasian). Early findings of this survey found that the majority of Black respondents felt their community was at a disadvantage compared to the general population when it comes to wealth accumulation.

U.S. Bank will unveil full results of the survey over the next several weeks, with findings used to help inform a broader initiative to build wealth in communities of color.

Listening and learning are key drivers in determining U.S. Bank’s Building Black Wealth next steps.

Doing business with diverse businesses In 2020, U.S. Bank committed to doubling its Blackowned suppliers within the next 12 months. U.S. Bank is making great progress and is on track to achieving this goal. Examples of areas of progress includes new engagements in real estate appraisals, digital, technology, and construction.

In the Fall of 2019, U.S. Bank joined the Department of Treasury’s Mentor/Protégé program to provide vital support to Minority Deposit Institutions (MDIs). Since then, U.S. Bank has been providing developmental assistance and engaged in revenue generating opportunities with First Independence Bank, a Black-owned bank headquartered in Detroit, Michigan.

Helping Helpingindividuals individualsand andcommunities communitiesofofcolor advance financially color advance financially Homeownership U.S. Bank is introducing its DREAM (Delivering Resources that Enable Access to Mortgage) Initiative, focused on advancing Black homeownership and increasing Black representation in the mortgage industry for individuals and families across our national footprint through strategic outreach and engagement with local community partners.

The initiative includes enhanced adult financial education, youth outreach, and a mortgage loan officer development program focused on attracting underrepresented communities to mortgage as a viable career choice. U.S. Bank DREAM Initiative is set to launch in late summer.

Financial inclusion Through our technology and operations business, U.S. Bank made an equity investment in Goalsetter, a Black-owned kids and family finance app that provides a next-generation, education-first banking experience for U.S. kids and teens, focused on financial literacy.

U.S. Bank was one of the first corporations to provide investment into the app. U.S. Bank is working on opportunities to use Goalsetter in its everyday business offerings including incorporating the app into its financial education experiences for customers and in its scholarship program.

Enhancingcareer careeropportunities for our Enhancing opportunities for our employees employees Advancing Black leaders U.S. Bank is committed to creating an inclusive culture where all employees are valued, empowered and given equitable access to opportunities to build and advance their careers. The company offers leadership development for all employees and will expand opportunities for both early- and mid-career employees and Black executives in partnership with the McKinsey Black Leadership Academy. To date more than 150 executives are participating in the program.

U.S. Bank is also preparing to launch a second year of its Managing Committee Sponsorship Program, which pairs executive leaders with women, Black and Hispanic leaders to increase visibility and accelerate their advancement.

Ensuring diverse candidate slates U.S. Bank recently expanded its diversity hiring efforts to include at least one woman or person of color in the interview process for all employment opportunities. Previous efforts had applied to manager level roles and above. The bank has also committed to expanding the use of diverse interview panels and is revising partnerships for sourcing diverse candidates.

“Launching U.S. Bank Access Commitment is an important next step in our focus on addressing the racial wealth gap, which suppresses opportunity for all Americans, and creating opportunities for all stakeholders to realize their full economic potential ,” said Greg Cunningham, chief diversity officer for U.S. Bank. “Our focus on developing the products, services and experiences that readily meets the financial needs of our diverse communities will ultimately help create more equitable outcomes for everyone.”

For more information, please visit usbank.com/diversity. * The survey was conducted by C+R Research. Majority of the survey respondents have more than $100,000 in investable assets while a quarter had $25,000-$99,900 in investable assets. Survey respondents also included emerging affluent investors. This sample included 21-40 year-old individuals with a college degree and between $55,000-$90,000 in income.

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Source: NNPA

March 2021 | 27 POLITICS

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee

Leads U.S. Reparations Bill H.R. 40

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire

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ongresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee knows that there has never been another time in which she has garnered so much congressional support and public momentum for H.R. 40, the reparations legislation that focuses on truth, racial healing, and transformation.

The longtime Democratic representative from Texas chaired a hearing on Wednesday, Feb. 17, about the bill.

In an exclusive interview with the National Newspaper Publishers Association recently, Congresswoman Jackson Lee reflected on the long-overdue redress to the descendants of enslaved Africans.

Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr, NNPA President and CEO, saluted Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. Chavis stated, “For her persistent leadership in support of H.R. 40 and for her granting this exclusive, timely, and indepth interview with the Black Press of America, we are most grateful.”

The congresswoman praised the powerful resiliency of Black Americans who continue to excel and to transcend the systemic racism and oppression of the past and present.

"I want to give credit to the giants that were and are Black Americans. They are giants," Congresswoman Jackson Lee declared.

"I want to give credit to the everyday mom and dad who get up every day and get to work and provide for their family. I'm going to give those who came up on the farms or stayed on the farm and raised nine and ten and twelve children," she reflected.

The Congresswoman continued, "I want to give them the honor that they deserve, and that is to recognize the insurmountable odds that some of them had and how they continue to plant seeds of respect and dignity in their children.

"Has anyone addressed the question of slavery and its comprehensive impact on Black Americans in this country? This is what H.R. 40 will do."

While the bill doesn't place a specific monetary value on reparations, it does focus on investigating and presenting the actual facts and truth about the unprecedented centuries of inhuman enslavement of African people, racial healing, and transformation.

The bill would fund a commission to study and develop proposals for providing reparations to African Americans.

The commission's mission includes identifying the role of federal and state governments in supporting the institution of slavery, forms of discrimination in public and private sectors against freed slaves and their descendants, and lingering adverse effects of slavery on living African Americans and society.

Congresswoman Jackson Lee, who sits on numerous House committees, including the Judiciary, Budget, and Homeland Security, has made the reparations legislation her top priority during the 117th Congress.

"I think if people begin to associate this legislation with what happened to the descendants of enslaved Africans as a human rights violation, the sordid past that violated the human rights of all of us who are descendants of enslaved Africans, I think that we can find common ground to pass this legislation," Congresswoman Jackson Lee pronounced.

"Can anyone imagine that we've never gotten a simple, effective, deeply-embedded, and well-respected apology?"

The Congresswoman is further encouraged by the support of the most co-sponsors (166) in the bill's history, which dates back decades to former Democratic Rep. John Conyers Jr., of Michigan, who first introduced the legislation in 1989.

In an earlier NNPA interview, White House Senior Advisor to President Biden and Director of the Office of Public Engagement Cedric Richmond sounded an urgent tone about the administration's commitment to ensure racial justice, accessibility, and equity concerning Black America.

Richmond told the Black Press that the administration supports Congresswoman Jackson Lee's H.R. 40.

"We do support a commission and H.R. 40; we know we can't wait. We have to start acting now," Richmond declared. "We don't need a study to tell us that systemic racism is out there. We don't need a study to tell us that redlining in Black communities has been treated a lot differently."

“I want to give credit to the giants that were and are Black Americans.

They are giants.”

—Congresswoman Jackson Lee Richmond continued: "We don't think the Black community should have to wait on a study, we need to deal with systemic racism right now and, yes, we support the commission, but it's not going to stop us from acting right now."

Like several historians who spoke to the Black Press, Congresswoman Jackson Lee recognizes that the transatlantic slave trade dates beyond 1619, the popular understanding of the start of the horrific history of when Africans were stolen from their homeland.

In 2018, the NNPA produced a series on the transatlantic slave trade, tracking the history to about 1519 that will be the content of an upcoming NNPA published book on the transatlantic slave trade.

Felicia M. Davis, the HBCU Green Fund director, which invests in sustainable campus solutions for historically black colleges and universities, told the Black Press that she believes the enslavement of African people demands international reexamination.

"The fact that slavery was underway for a century in South America before introduction in North America is not widely taught nor commonly understood," Davis remarked for the NNPA series.

"It is a powerful historical fact missing from our understanding of slavery, its magnitude, and global impact.

The knowledge that slavery was underway for a century provides deep insight into how enslaved Africans adapted," she stated.

Recently, Dr. Julius Garvey, the son of the late Pan Africanism movement leader, Marcus Garvey, also declared his earlier transatlantic slave trade beliefs.

"You know, they say it was 400 years ago when the first African slaves landed in the United States, but people were brought to the Americas, meaning Central America, the Caribbean, and South America, before that," Dr. Garvey exclaimed.

"So, 400 years is just a convenient date, and it shows how much we need to know our history."

Congresswoman Jackson Lee surmised that passage of H.R. 40 would enhance America's status in the eyes of African countries and those around the globe.

"I studied and went to school in Ghana as well as in Nigeria, and I believe that Africa should be one of the United States' closest allies," the Congresswoman stated.

"There is an eagerness in many of these countries, part ic u l a rly w it h young Africans, to align themselves with America, with a democratic America," she said.

"I think that the governments in Africa will respect the American government seeing that [America] has finally sought to remedy and repair a great loss for the continent, a continent where millions of Africans were taken from."

To see more of the NNPA's exclusive interview with Congresswoman Jackson Lee, visit Facebook. com/BlackPressUSA / Videos, and YouTube/ BlackPressUSATV.

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Source: NNPA

28 | March 2021 REAL ESTATE

How Can We Narrow the Black Homeownership Gap? By d-mars.com News Provider

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espite ongoing challenges due to the pandemic, Black Americans joined the many homebuyers looking for a space to call their own during the past year. But even against that backdrop, the homeownership gap for the Black community remains significant, and concerns remain about the overall effect the pandemic-slowed economy and historic challenges will have on long-term homeownership goals.

Throughout the year, it’s important to acknowledge the challenges the Black community faces when it comes to homeownership and racial equity, and also acknowledge the important work that remains. That’s especially true considering how far behind the homeownership rate for the Black community lags compared to other communities in America, and how important owning a home is to achieving the American Dream and building longterm wealth.

The homeownership rate for Black families is nearly 30 percentage points lower than that for white families, according to a recent analysis by the National Association of Realtors. A recent Urban Institute report warns that if no policy measures are taken to address the significant homeownership gap, homeownership rates will continue to fall further behind, likely pushing more members of the Black community into renting as they age.

The Black community also continues to face significant barriers to home buying. Saving for a down payment, building credit and finding affordable homes are challenges for many Americans, but can be even more so for potential homebuyers in the Black community.

According to a 2020 report from the Urban Institute, Black households have the lowest median FICO score among all racial and ethnic groups and the greatest share of households with no credit score at all. Serving these households requires lenders and other stakeholders to work toward new solutions. The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s Project REACh, which we are a part of as both a founding participant and as the lead of its affordable homeownership work group, is one spot where the industry is joining hands with policy makers to address issues.

At Wells Fargo, we are committed to taking steps to increase homeownership

within the Black community. In 2017, we announced a commitment to help increase African American homeownership that includes $60 billion in purchase lending to create at least 250,000 homeowners over the next 10 years; a focus on increasing the diversity of our sales team including African American Home Mortgage Consultants; and dedicating $15 million toward initiatives that promote homebuyer education and counseling. While we have made progress, creating more than 72,000 homeowners to date, much work remains.

As a lender, we look to support homeownership in a number of ways, from offering a broad array of products to providing high quality education to consumers. We offer educational tools about the home lending process, building credit and other important financial topics, including an interactive experience at myfirsthome. wf.com.

We also try to strategize on ways to share information through community organizations and outreach. Our home mortgage consultants also are ready to guide potential homebuyers through the process, even if they aren’t ready to purchase right away. We encourage potential homebuyers to find out where they stand financially, and then come up with a plan, including seeking HUD-approved homebuyer education, and counseling from a nonprofit housing provider. Too many potential buyers wrongly assume that their credit isn’t good enough or that they don’t have enough funds saved for a down payment.

We also encourage potential buyers not to get overwhelmed by the concept of a down payment. Wells Fargo offers low down payment options that can help potential buyers get past that savings hurdle.

Buyers can achieve their homeownership goals with as little as 3% down, giving them flexibility to decide how much of their savings to devote to a down payment, and how much to keep for a rainy day.

In addition, a number of organizations have down payment assistance programs available that may also help.

There is no single solution that will solve the challenges facing Black homeowners, but there are many steps that we can take to narrow the homeownership gap. We continue to evaluate the ways we can help customers and our communities become stronger and help more members of the Black community achieve the dream of homeownership.

Source: NNPA

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March 2021 | 29

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30 | March 2021

Why Getting TECH SAVVY Doesn’t Have to be Hard By d-mars.com News Provider

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ore than 12 million people are currently employed in tech-related occupations in the U.S., either as information technology (IT) professionals or employees of technology companies. Yet employer demand for tech workers is still strong in many markets and industries, including technology, financial services, manufacturing, retail, healthcare, government and education.

Unfortunately, misperceptions about tech occupations

TECHNOLOGY

persist. People assume that in such jobs, you’re relegated to working alone writing software code or that you need to be a math genius or have an advanced academic degree to even get your foot in the door. These misperceptions can discourage qualified candidates from exploring career options in the IT field.

“Today’s IT professional plays a leading role in virtually every business and industry, identifying innovation and technologies that can determine the future of an organization,” says John McGlinchey, executive vice president for global certification with CompTIA, a nonprofit association for the IT industry. “Companies are eager to hire people who communicate effectively, are comfortable working as part of a team and are creative in identifying how to use technology to make a business more efficient and profitable.”

In fact, 62% of executives surveyed for CompTIA’s “Workforce and Learning Trends 2020” report ranked soft skills such as relationship building, persuasion, integrity and confidence with equal importance to hard technical skills when it came to hiring for their tech workforce.

For anyone thinking about a career in tech, the best first step is to learn more about the technologies of today and tomorrow, and the occupations associated with these innovations. Many free resources are available. Here are three examples: The Future of Tech (www.futureoftech.org) is a growing library of resources on what’s new and what’s next in the world of technology. Topics such as artificial intelligence, augmented and virtual reality, big data and the internet of things are highlighted on the site, which is designed for anyone interested in learning more about technologies that are shaping the way we live and work.

The IT Career Roadmap (www.comptia.org/ content/it-careers-path-roadmap) offers insights into a variety of career paths, including tech support, networking, cybersecurity, data

and software and web development.

The IT Salary Calculator (https://www.comptia.org/content/it-salary-calculator) allows you to explore salary estimates for different tech occupations at different levels of expertise.

The calculator includes salary data from 400 different metropolitan areas covering 85% of the U.S. population, from an IT support specialist in Portland, Maine ($52,750) to a cybersecurity analyst in Portland, Ore. ($101,530).

“If you don’t believe technology is a viable career choice, consider all of the things you’ve done today that are made possible by technology -- from the car you drive and the streaming entertainment channels you enjoy to a telehealth visit with your doctor and the ease and efficiency of online banking,” says McGlinchey.

The IT field is no longer a world of pocket protectors and motherboards. With more people using more devices than ever before to stay connected to one another, industry experts say that today’s IT workforce is open for business for anyone with great curiosity, creativity, personality and versatility.

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Source: StatePoint

March 2021 | 31

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