Business Journals 178 by d-mars.com

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BUSINESS JOURNAL

June 2022

Inspire, Inform & Educate

178th Edition

Brothers & Brothers Utility Services LLC

Provides Quality Work Across America LEFT TO RIGHT: Darrell Provo, COO and Co-Owner and Audrey Provo, CEO and Co-Owner

10-11

INSIDE

New Owners of The Power Center Set Vision of Prosperity for Local Community

The Texas Association of Real Estate Brokers celebrates their 65th annual conference in Houston!

For 150 Years Emancipation Park Continues To Preserve Our History and Strengthen Our Community

2 | June 2022

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

June 2022 | 3

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

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We hope you find this issue not only informative but inspiring and educational as well. This month’s cover story highlights Brothers & Brothers Utility Services LLC. This company is a recognizable and well-respected name across America in the electric and utility fields, delivering safe and quality work across America. With highly skilled and trained professionals, the company’s mission is to keep solidarity, integrity, and safety at the forefront of the utility industry. Under the vision of co-owners, Darrell and Audrey Port of Houston

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BEHIND THE JOURNAL

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla ASSISTANT SALES REPRESENTATIVE Tiffany Brown OPERATIONS COORDINATOR Bria Casteel ART DIRECTOR Angel Rosa DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Erick Fontejon PHOTOGRAPHY Grady Carter L.C. Poullard DISTRIBUTION Mike Jones CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Brianna Patt Stacy M. Brown Tami V. Allen, MS, LPC James Marshall d-mars.com

—the Honorable Barack Obama, 44th President of the United States

City of Houston

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CONTENTS COVER STORY Brothers & Brothers Utility Services LLC Provides Quality Work Across America

PUBLISHER & CEO Keith J. Davis, Sr. CHIEF OF STAFF & MANAGING EDITOR Kimberly Floyd

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and the cornerstones of our communities.”

Provo, BBUS is a company that prioritizes quality over quantity. The company’s impressive client roster includes Eversource Energy, Con Edison, Entergy, and National Grid. BBUS understands the great importance of customers’ needs to manage their businesses and households, and is committed to restoring electrical power quickly, efficiently, and safely. As always, thank you for your continued support of Business Journal. When you support us, you are supporting more than just our company; you are supporting the communities in which we live and work. Working together, we can succeed in making positive things happen.

10-11 04 BUSINESS 04 5 Top Items Your Small Business Needs on Its Cybersecurity To-do List 06 New Owners of The Power Center Set Vision of Prosperity for Local Community 08 New Survey: Road To Entrepreneurial Success May Not Be What You Expect 07 COMMUNITY 07 For 150 Years Emancipation Park Continues To Preserve Our History and Strengthen Our Community 12 EDUCATION & CAREER 12 3 Tips for Getting the Most Return on Your College Degree 12 Top 6 Resources To Help Pay for College 22 4 Skills Veterans Bring as Team Members in Civilian Careers 13-20 HEALTH & WELLNESS 14 Tips for Managing and Minimizing Stress 16 EPA Administrator, Michael S. Regan, Focused on Clean Air and Water for Communities of Color 17 Medicaid and CHIP Give Children Access To Behavioral Health Services 18 The Stigma Around Male Domestic Violence

19 Understanding of Postpartum Depression 24 Mostyn Law And 97.9 The Box Honor Houston’s Difference Makers In Education 24 Ready to Jumpstart Your Stem Career? A Biological Sciences or Biochemistry Degree Can Help 26 FINANCE 26 Just Keep Swimming 28 Being Prepared for Life’s Milestones Means Planning Ahead With Insurance 5, 29 REAL ESTATE 5 The Texas Association of Real Estate Brokers celebrates their 65th annual conference in Houston! 29 Moved and Bought a Home? Here’s What You Should Know 30 About half of all Houston-area households could afford to purchase a median-priced home during Q1 2022

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4 | June 2022 BUSINESS

5 Top Items Your Small Business Needs on Its

Cybersecurity To-do List By d-mars.com

Here are 5 tactics that should be on your cyber defense checklist:

News Provider

f you run a small to medium-sized business, you may think your risk of cyberattacks is slim to none. But just because your business is smaller and you have your data stored on-premises does not exempt you from risk. According to the Ninth Annual Cost of Cybercrime Study by Accenture, 43% of cyberattacks are now aimed at small businesses - but only 14% of those businesses are prepared to defend themselves. Since the pandemic, cybercrime has increased by 600%, according to Embroker.com. And the cost of cyberattacks - from business disruption and lost data to system downtime, damage to your company's reputation, and even legal liability - is higher than ever. Cyber defense needs to be a major component of your business strategy.

What can your business do to help prevent these attacks in the first place? Types of cyberattacks It helps to understand where cybercriminals are most likely to strike, which is at most companies' biggest point of vulnerability - the human factor. The Ponemon Institute's State of Cybersecurity Report has identified the most common types of cyberattacks on small businesses: Social Engineering/Phishing (57%): This can take the form of an email that appears to be from a trusted source, like a co-worker or supervisor, asking for help and requesting you click a link or download something. Compromised/Stolen Devices (33%): Devices without sufficient security safeguards in place can be vulnerable. Credential Theft (30%): Hackers obtain usernames and passwords to access accounts. Having strong, unique passwords and multi-factor authentication to access accounts can help prevent unauthorized access.

Strategies to safeguard your business No matter the size of your business, you can take practical steps to help defend against cyberattacks, which will save your company time, effort, and money in the long term.

1. Educate your employees about security best practices Make sure everyone in your business understands common cyber threats and is well trained on how to identify typical phishing and social engineering scams. In addition, help remote employees secure their home networks by offering training on setting up secure Wi-Fi. 2. Keep business and personal devices separate Especially as many employees continue working remotely all or part of the time, reduce security risks by emphasizing the importance of everyone in your organization using only company devices for work purposes. 3. Beef up security measures for employee accounts and network access Require only strong, unique passwords for employee access, as well as implementing multi-factor authentication practices for an extra layer of protection. 4. Get a unified software platform for security and patch management Make sure your entire system is more secure by using a single, effective software platform that can manage identity, access, and devices in the cloud - as well as managing security upgrades and patching. For example, JumpCloud offers IT admins at any business the ability to control and manage a wide variety of configurations with Zero Trust security to secure your organization. JumpCloud provides an easy, frictionless solution for small to medium-sized business requirements to hedge against increasing

cyberthreats, with several security features to help your business improve its security posture, including: • • • • •

Multi-Factor Authentication Single Sign-On Device Management Zero-Trust Patch Management

Even better, JumpCloud lets customers use all premium features for free, for up to 10 users and 10 devices.

"Any business owner today needs to be aware of and take active measures to protect against cyberattacks," said Benjamin Garrison, technical evangelist at JumpCloud. "For any size business, JumpCloud provides an effective solution, all in one place." 5. Monitor for security breaches In case of a cyberattack, your business will recover and overcome the loss much more quickly the earlier you can detect the problem. Set up a system for frequent monitoring of your network for any potential breaches, and keep working to defend against them with regular updates and training for all staff. Don't wait until a security breach happens to get serious about cyber defense. Being proactive about the security of your business will be well worth it to defend everything you've created. JumpCloud gives IT admins a single cloud directory platform to secure all their users in any device environment, wherever work happens. Visit JumpCloud.com to learn more.

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Source: BPT

June 2022 | 5 REAL ESTATE

The Texas Association of Real Estate Brokers celebrates their

65 annual conference in Houston! th

By d-mars.com News Provider

he Texas Association of Real Estate Brokers (TAREB) celebrates their 65th annual conference in Houston with a three-day celebration dedicated to the topic: United, Committed, and Empowered for Success. The conference kicked off on Thursday, June 9th with several breakout sessions for guests to attend. The topics of discussion ranged from marketing as an agent to maximizing your real estate license, and much more. On Friday, June 10th TAREB organized more breakout sessions followed by a luncheon that allowed for networking with various agents and even scholarship presentations by TAREB, HAR, Hancock Whitney & Texas Realtors. Later that evening, the organization hosted Denim & Diamonds, a Texas casino night scholarship fundraiser and networking event. We asked Robert Wright, President and Chief Executive Officer of TAREB his thoughts on the turnout of the event. He responded with “I think it is going great. This might be the biggest turnout that we’ve had in the last 15 years. We have a great program with our casino night tonight. My biggest thing was making sure that we put together a great program that would directly benefit the members”.

When asked about the future of TAREB, he mentioned “the whole thing we want to do is grow. We are trying to create Black wealth through home ownership. We are trying to raise that Black home ownership rate. But for me, it’s not necessarily about that number, but the more members we have, the more opportunities we create to improve that number”, said Mr. Wright. Finally, we asked what advice Mr. Wright could give someone who is eager to get involved and to network with like-minded people in real estate. Mr. Wright said “the first thing I would tell them, is if you are doing it for the money, this is the wrong organization. We are a serving organization that is dedicated to assisting individuals who are needing help in homeownership. If you are looking to serve in your community, then this is a great organization for you”. On Saturday June 11th, TAREB closed out the weekend of events with an inspirational breakfast with guest speaker Dr. Rudy Rasmus of St. John Methodist Church.

Mr. Wright has confirmed that next years 66th annual celebration will be held in Fort Worth, Texas. The Texas Association of Real Estate Brokers, Inc., (TAREB) is the state governing body for chapters of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers, Inc., (NAREB) located across the state of Texas. TAREB is a state Real Estate Trade organization in Texas, open to housing and real estate professionals who support our national and state mission. For more information, please visit https://tareb.org/.

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6 | June 2022 BUSINESS

New Owners of

The Power Center Set Vision of Prosperity for Local Community

Under New Management: The Community Collective for Houston Nonprofit Purchases The Power Center By d-mars.com News Provider

he Community Collective for Houston, a newly formed non-profit organization, announces its purchase of The Power Center, a landmark building in Southwest Houston that serves as a multi-purpose event and business office venue. For 27 years, The Power Center has been a staple in the city and has provided a vehicle for business and entertainment. Under its new ownership, The Power Center will continue to serve the community by offering a full-scale range of services in three main areas: business, education, and food harvesting. Community Collective, the nonprofit operating the facility, is led by restaurateur Chris Williams of Lucille’s and Lucille’s 1913; educator Patricia Hogan Williams; real estate developers Courtney Johnson-Rose and Teeba Rose; and Ben Williams co-founder of Lucille’s and The Highway Distillery. The Power Center currently houses almost 40 companies from various industries including a pharmacy, law office, barber, hair salon, printer, and other small businesses. The building is anchored by JP Morgan Chase on one end and The Imani School on the other. Ten acres of land in the backyard will allow for the creation of an urban garden, which will serve as a teaching mechanism for students at the school. “The Imani School is committed to developing self-confident, academically advanced, Christian leaders. With the ownership of this building, it allows us to expand our programming and to serve our children by offering more programs. STEAM becomes more than just a word as we tie in all three aspects of The Power Center,” said Patricia Hogan Williams. The Power Center has a 20,000 square foot grand ballroom as well as a smaller ballroom and other event spaces including multi-purpose meeting rooms, reception and receiving areas, and cocktail, and executive board rooms. The ballrooms are fully

Photos Credit: Ken Jones Photography

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Teeba Rose, Patricia Hogan-Williams, Chris Williams, Courtney Johnson-Rose, and Ben Williams.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Teeba Rose, Courtney Johnson-Rose, Patricia Hogan-Williams, Ben Williams, and Chris Williams.

versatile to accommodate lecture-style seating and banquet/cathedral-style seating for luncheons, galas, conferences, themed parties, and weddings. Award-winning restaurateur and philanthropist Chris Williams will lead the

hospitality arm of the Collective. He will oversee culinary efforts and events as well as ensure the urban garden provides fresh produce for the community. “There are so many opportunities here,” said Chris Williams. “We’re showing the

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full scope of the culinary world, from seed to harvest to production to responsible disposal. That will include lessons on fermenting and composting.” The Power Center will also provide a slate of services for business owners including classes, coaching sessions, networking, and guidance on obtaining capital. Renovations to the building will make it more environmentally friendly. “One of the most significant ways The Power Center will impact the local community is through its energy efficiency. To help reduce our carbon footprint, we envision adding solar panels to the building and EV charging stations in the parking lot for electric cars. We hope to actually produce power,” said Johnson-Rose. For more information about The Power Center and Community Collective, visit www. communitycollectivehouston.org. Source: Misty Blue Media

June 2022 | 7

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8 | June 2022

New Survey:

BUSINESS

Road To Entrepreneurial

Success May Not Be What You Expect By d-mars.com News Provider

f you've dreamed of becoming an entrepreneur, you may think success is a straight road from one success to another until you've "made it." But a recent survey reveals what small business owners have learned: Making mistakes is not the end of your entrepreneurial career. More likely, it provides the key to ultimate success.

deeper to understand what tasks are most essential, and why. Ask each day: What tasks are essential for your business to succeed? If inventory is low, ordering goods is a top priority. When revenue is stalled, sales calls may be highest on your to-do list. Similarly, another top recommendation was to make a solid business plan (41%).

5. Keep learning Entrepreneurs believe ongoing learning is essential for innovating and developing new ideas. Nearly one-third (29%) of them believe continuing education is the secret sauce that helps business owners stay on top of their game.

"Good business fundamentals and hard work, combined with planning, organization, and surrounding yourself with supportive people who can offer an honest opinion, can be the essential drivers to success," said John DeSimone, president of Herbalife Nutrition. "In business, just like in life, what matters most is seizing the opportunity to learn and improve."

Hereare arethe thebiggest biggesttakeaways from the Here study: takeaways from the study: 1. Learn from your failures Survey respondents said it took an average of two failed business ideas before they figured out what worked. The key is not to let failure discourage you but to allow your mistakes to help you learn, grow and succeed in future endeavors. Almost 90% of small business owners said they learned valuable lessons from each unsuccessful venture, and 38% advised entrepreneurs not to be afraid to make mistakes. 2. Prioritize effectively Over 30% of survey respondents said learning to prioritize work is critical. Many business owners make lists, then become overwhelmed by their workload leading to procrastination. Beyond making lists, entrepreneurs must dig

later completion - to help identify hot activities. * Organize your workday by making a list of tasks and prioritizing those to be completed first. * Set a timer to dedicate yourself to each task before taking a break. Knowing you have time constraints - and something to look forward to - can help you complete tasks faster.

How can you fit learning into your busy schedule?

3. Be goal-oriented The importance of entrepreneurs learning to be more productive was high on the list of lessons learned. Over 40% of small business owners said productivity was critical to success. How do you achieve higher productivity? By first setting attainable goals. Unlike employees who have goals and deadlines set by others, entrepreneurs need to learn how to set attainable goals for themselves to be more productive - then tackle them, one step at a time. 4. Get organized When small business owners were asked what advice they'd give someone just starting out, a top tip was to get and stay organized (42%). What does that mean? Organization entails both ordering your things (files, equipment) and structuring your time: * Documents should be clearly labeled and easy to access, whether stored digitally or on your desk. * Color-code items - for example, red for urgent, blue for today, and yellow for

* Read articles and attend virtual events during breaks or evenings, thanks to content being available on demand. * Review news stories, industry blogs, and research to help you brainstorm new ideas to keep you and your business fresh. * Keep a "spark list" handy, where you can jot down thoughts and ideas to help you grow.

The survey, commissioned by Herbalife Nutrition and conducted by OnePoll, asked small business owners and employees to share lessons they've learned through workplace mishaps - and how those lessons shaped their entrepreneurial journey. Insights from 8,000 small business owners and employees across 15 countries, including 2,000 Americans (1,000 small business owners and 1,000 employees with 10 years or more of experience), can teach a great deal about what it takes to succeed as an entrepreneur. Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey? Visit IAmHerbalifeNutrition.com to learn how.

Good business fundamentals and hard work, combined with planning, organization, and surrounding yourself with supportive people who can offer an honest opinion, can be the essential drivers to success,” said John DeSimone, president of Herbalife Nutrition. “In business, just like in life, what matters most is seizing the opportunity to learn and improve. Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

Source: BPT

June 2022 | 9 COMMUNITY

For 150 Years Emancipation Park Continues To

Preserve Our History and Strengthen Our Community By d-mars.com News Provider

ith the help of several women and community leaders, Emancipation Park was founded in 1872 by four formerly enslaved men: Reverend Jack Yates, Richard Allen, Richard Brock, and Reverend Elias Dibble. These men, along with members of the Third and Fourth Ward communities, gathered about $800 to purchase ten acres of land as a place to com memorate the anniversary of their emancipation on June 19, 1865. This date is now known as Juneteenth, and the celebration still takes place in the park annually today. The purchase represented not only their freedom, but property ownership, unity, and cooperative economics amongst African Americans. Decades later in October 2013, Emancipation park broke ground on a $33.5 million renovation. The project was completed four years later in June 2017, and the dedication took place in conjunction with Emancipation Park’s 145th Annual Juneteenth Celebration. Emancipation Park's 150th anniversary was recently celebrated this month during

PHOTO SOURCE: Emancipation Park Conservancy

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Nancy K., Rich K., Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, Jackie B., and Ramon Manning.

Juneteenth. Today, Emancipation Park Conservancy still strives to preserve Emancipation Park’s cultural integrity and enrich its heritage as a local, state, national and international landmark through world-class park management, culturally relevant, invigorating, and enriching programs/events, and improving the quality of open space for the enjoyment of all.

Emancipation Park is located in Third Ward. The address is 3018 Emancipation Avenue, Houston, TX 77057. For more information, please visit epconservancy.org.

With Ramon Manning, board chairman of Emancipation Park Conservancy

Talk about the importance of Emancipation Park, as its name and specific placement in the community are important to keep the history of the Emancipation Proclamation alive. Emancipation Park symbolizes freedom. The park was established through a community effort to create a safe space for African Americans when no such space existed. While Juneteenth was the reason the park was founded, it was also intended to meet the needs of a newly emancipated population and build a community. Through Emancipation Park’s educational and community programming, we continue to serve the mission originally intended by the founders — serving the community. We do this through our four core pillars of education, economic empowerment, health and wellness, and the arts. Through these pillars, we strive to educate and improve the overall health of our communities.

Emancipation Park is not just about recreation, it is also about re-creation.

Emancipation Park was founded when four formerly enslaved African Americans and their communities came together to purchase ten acres of land in what is now Houston’s Third Ward. How should this encourage us to come together as a community, putting our resources together to build our communities? When you reference the community spirit that formed the Park, it is important to remember that they were less than a decade out of chattel slavery. Freedom was all they had. Reparations nor severance pay were provided. However, even with so little financially, they were abundantly wealthy in spirit. That indomitable spirit allowed them to acquire the land now known as Emancipation Park. We draw incredible Photo Caption (Man in brown and blue at podium): Ramon Manning, board chairman of Emancipation Park Conservancy.

inspiration and guidance from our ancestors who purchased this park. They are an undeniable example of what is possible when we all work together.

The goal of the founders was to carve out a place for African Americans to relish in the freedom gained. What is your charge to us as a community so we can carve out a place for the next generation to do the same? The charge is two-fold. First, we must honor the sacrifices and investments made by our ancestors by supporting, investing in, preserving, and caring for African American cultural sites like Emancipation Park. It is our responsibility to ensure that these treasured places thrive and serve as an example for future generations. Second, we have a responsibility to tell our past and future stories to ensure that the voices of those building the foundation of future generations are heard. Please provide us with any words or sentiments on the recent Emancipation Park 150th anniversary celebrated during Juneteenth. The 150th Anniversary of Emancipation

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Park is an event well worth celebrating. The park’s founders would be amazed and filled with joy that the investment they made 150 years ago continues to support the lives of the community they helped establish. Not only has the park remained in our community over time, but Juneteenth is now a national holiday. This is a special time, and we are humbled and honored to play a part in honoring this historic occasion. Anything else you want our readers to know? Anything special you want to say about Emancipation Park or its founders? Any words on community, culture, and history? There has been a great deal said already, however, it is important that all understand that history is critically important to understanding who you are, where you have been, and where you are going. Together, the founders and the men and women of their community were bold enough to carve out a place for themselves and future generations. We encourage everyone to learn the history of Emancipation Park and visit the park to walk in the footsteps of history.

10 | June 2022

I always aspired to do something great in this field. Whenever I worked for other companies, I prided myself on doing an exceptional job efficiently with the crew and customers’ safety as a top priority. —Darrell Provo Chief Operating Officer

Leading in the

SOLIDARIT SAFETY & By Subcontractors USA News Provider

rothers & Brothers Utility Services LLC (BBUS) is a recognizable and well-respected name across America in the electric and utility fields, delivering safe and quality work across America. With highly skilled and trained professionals, the company’s mission is to keep solidarity, integrity, and safety at the forefront of the utility industry. Under the vision of co-owners, Darrell and Audrey and Darrell Provo Audrey Provo, BBUS is a company that prioritizes quality over quantity. Through much preparation, prayer, and faith, BBUS officially opened its doors on May 21, 2021. BBUS currently serves 5 states, has 25 years of combined experience, and has serviced 250,000 customers. The company’s impressive client roster includes Eversource Energy, Con Edison, Entergy, and National Grid. BBUS provides turnkey installation and design capabilities for substation projects and also specializes in turnkey services for the construction and maintenance of transmission lines. BBUS serves residential, commercial, and industrial loads with the installation and maintenance of overhead pole lines and underground buried cables. BBUS understands the great importance of customers’ needs to manage their businesses and households, and is committed to restoring electrical power quickly, efficiently, and safely. Darrell is a highly trained journeyman lineman with 7,000 hours of on-the-job training through the Southwestern Line Constructors Joint Apprenticeship Training Program. He is certified by the Department of Labor as a journeyman lineman. Darrell holds various certifications in the utility industry such as Quanta Helicopter Certified, Certified Energized Conductor, Pole Top & Bucket Rescue, and OSHA 10 w/ET&D. “I always aspired to do something great in this field. Whenever I worked for other companies, I prided myself on doing an exceptional job efficiently with the crew and customers’ safety as a top priority,” said Darrell. “Through my experience, there grew a desire to run my own company that would stand on the same principles used while I was working for other utility companies.” Audrey was the rock supporting Darrell while he was building his career and still is a rock and significant component as she leads BBUS’s foundation for success. She has a genuine love for people and loves how with focus, faith, and the right perspective, a challenging situation can have a positive outcome. Audrey has worked in various management and leadership positions, with a background in human resources and a concentration in mental health. And with 10 years of experience managing her own company, her business management skills have proven invaluable for BBUS.

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e Utility Industry With

TY, INTEGRITY, & FAITH

Q&A With Brothers

June 2022 | 11

& Brothers Utility Services LLC:

D-MARS: How does BBUS stand out from competitors? BBUS: BBUS prides itself on catering to our employees while maintaining great customer service. In return, our employees are dedicated and committed to completing the tasks assigned. Our hands-on experience is part of BBUS’s foundation. We are family-owned and run. D-MARS: As a company with clients nationwide, what is your "special" approach to safe and efficient service to restore power? BBUS: Being reliable, safe, and providing quality work are our core values. To assure these values are being exercised, communication is the key. With each project, BBUS understands what is expected of us and we in turn communicate this clearly to our employees. We ensure each employee understands their tasks as well as involve ourselves in the ever-changing safety aspect of our trade. We lead by example when it comes to safety education, so our employees live it as we do, safely servicing clients nationwide.

The safety measures, supervision, and staff are extremely helpful and on time. They made me feel like my safety was always the first priority. —Ahmad M. Client Testimonial D-MARS: Is there a storm/situation that was especially challenging that you can mention and what was your approach to a safe and efficient solution for this challenge? BBUS: Hurricane IDA was challenging for our employees and management staff. After the devastation hit Louisiana, BBUS was assigned the Tickfaw area to restore power. No power, hotels, or restaurants were available in the surrounding areas. Our team banded together during those 21 days and found food and essentials during that time. We had to ensure our team received the appropriate rest and meals while maintaining a safe and productive work environment. And in the midst of those 21 days, Darrell and I tested positive for COVID-19, so we had to quarantine while making sure the project was completed and our employees were cared for. At the end of the 21 days, BBUS completed the task, over 100,000 customers’ power was restored, there were no accidents or injuries, and every employee made it home safely.

BBUS is family-owned and faith sits at the center of their success and future dreams, with Genesis 1:3 as one of the Provo’s favorite Scriptures which reads, “Then God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light.” You can find Brothers & Brothers Utility Services LLC on the web at www.bbusutilities.com. For more information, please call 1-888-958-5463 or email info@bbusutilities.com.

D-MARS: Long- and short-term goals? BBUS: Long-term, BBUS desires to build one of the largest diverse utility companies in the industry. Shortterm, we aim to bring more diversity and open the door to our inner-city youth, which will spark an interest in our trade. We are dedicated to seeing our youth and the community succeed as a whole, and are hopeful that BBUS will contribute to the growth and betterment of areas and individuals in need. D-MARS: Any certifications or memberships that you want to mention? BBUS: Darrell and I are both members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). BBUS is a member of the Tri-County Black Chamber of Commerce and National Association of Minority Contractors (NAMC). Our company is also certified as a HUB, SBE, BOBE, and WSBE.

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12 | June 2022 EDUCATION & CAREER

3 Tips for Getting the Most Return on Your College Degree have access to a Career Assistance Program, which allows them to search for jobs, get interviewing tips and assistance building a resume and much more," said Mills.

By d-mars.com News Provider

ith the rising cost of education, you might be thinking, is college really worth the investment? If you're heading to college soon and trying to figure out what your ideal degree will net you, here are a few considerations to keep in mind.

Research Researchmajors majorsand andcorresponding correspondingcareer career opportunities opportunities A recent study by the Federal Reserve analyzed college majors that offer the most earning potential after graduation. Chemical engineering, aerospace engineering, and computer engineering topped the list of degrees with the highest salaries for college graduates. Others near the top of the list include pharmacy, computer science, business analytics, and finance. "When deciding on your college major, don't solely focus on careers and salary. Take into consideration what you're most passionate about," said Brittany Mills, assistant manager of education lending at Navy Federal Credit Union. "Keep in mind that your interests may change throughout school, so be flexible and open to expanding the skills you want to build after graduation." Additionally, some lenders provide online job search training and resources as a student loan benefit. "For example, all Navy Federal student loan borrowers

Weigh Weighbenefits benefitsofofthe thetype typeofofschool schooland and hybrid hybridvs. vs.in-person in-personlearning learning The College Board reported that tuition and fees were $10,740 for in-state students at four-year public colleges, compared to $38,070 for students at four-year private colleges in the 2021-22 academic year. By attending school in-state, you'll save on transportation, as well as room and board if you live at home. But if you prefer to get the college experience away from home, an out-of-state college may be a good choice. Community colleges and trade schools also provide hands-on training and certificate programs for different skilled careers, if that's of interest to you. Many schools are now also offering the option to attend school virtually or a hybrid environment (combination of in-person and virtual learning). As these options can save you money on your overall education expenses, be sure to factor them into your decision. Make a list of pros and cons to determine which kind of school best fits your budget and lifestyle.

market and how to apply for them," said Mills. Student loans are just one of several options to choose from when deciding how to pay for college. Federal student loans are funded through the U.S. Department of Education and require you to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Private student loans are available through a bank or credit union and are based on your creditworthiness. Private loans can be a great tool to fulfill any unmet funding needs after you've received financial aid through federal loans, grants, scholarships, or the Post-9/11 GI Bill. "We provide loans for a semester or the entire academic year up to the school-certified cost of attendance," added Mills. "We also offer in-school repayment options and a 0.25% interest rate reduction for setting up automatic payments to help reduce overall loan costs." In the long run, exploring your passions and potential career possibilities will give you a solid plan for determining whether college is the best investment for you and your finances. Navy Federal Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA. Source: BPT

Explore Explorefinancial financialaid aidtotolower lowercollege collegecosts costs "Covering college looks very different for everyone, so take time to understand the types of financing in the

EDUCATION & CAREER

Top 6 Resources To Help Pay for College By d-mars.com News Provider

f your child is college-bound, you probably have questions including how to pay for their higher education. What may surprise you is how many different sources you'll draw from to cover tuition, room, and board plus expenses like books, fees, travel, and more. A recent study revealed over a dozen funding sources parents used to help fund their kids' education. According to the College Ave Student Loans survey, 97% of parents said they're currently helping - or planning to help - their child pays for college.

Hereare arethe themost mostcommon commonways Here tothe cover the biggest toways cover biggest investment investment your you'll make inyou’ll yourmake child'sinfuture. child’s future. 1. The FAFSA The first step to obtaining financial aid is filling out the Free Application for

Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at FAFSA. gov. Filing the FAFSA as early as possible each year is crucial, as some aid is first-come, first served. Information you provide on the FAFSA determines your child's eligibility for certain grants, workstudy, federal student loans, and more. 2. Scholarships and grants In the survey, 70% of parents reported their children were using scholarships or grants to help pay for their education. How do you tap into this vital source of funds? First, by filling out the FAFSA to access government-funded grants or school-based scholarships. However, many scholarships are available from community organizations, your home state, or online sources. Your child should ask their high school guidance counselor and their college's financial aid office about other opportunities. Then check out websites like Fastweb, Cappex, and College Board's Big Future. Not all opportunities are scholastic in nature; many are based on things like extracurricular interests, where you're from, or even chance. For example, you can apply for a $1,000 monthly scholarship sweepstakes at CollegeAve.com. Like scholarships, grants do not need to be repaid. Some, like government-funded need-based Pell Grants, will be made available to you by filing your FAFSA. Others may be statebased, so visit your state's Department of Education website.

3. Savings and income In the College Ave survey, 62% of parents cited regular savings and income as funding sources for their child's education, with 40% mentioning their 529 savings plan. Use the time now to review your budget and identify where you may find extra money to put toward college expenses. You may also find that you don't have as much flexibility in the budget. Have a candid conversation with your child now about financial concerns which can affect school choice and whether the student must help contribute to their education. 4. Student contributions Some students may have money saved from working during high school that can help pay for expenses. For many students, holding a part-time job while in college will also help cover costs. Some students also consider working full-time jobs over the summer. As they get older, your child may also look for paid internships in their career field. The study found that 37% of families drew from a student's job to help with finances. Many students qualify for part-time work-study campus jobs by filing the FAFSA. 5. Federal student loans Over half (55%) of parents surveyed said student loans helped pay for their child's education. How do you qualify for a federal student loan? You guessed it: the FAFSA. "Take out federal loans in the student's name first, as these come with low fixed

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interest rates and unique benefits, like flexible, income-based repayment plans," said student loan expert Mark Kantrowitz. "But federal student loans have annual limits, so you may need additional funds if there's a gap between what you can borrow and your total cost." 6. Private loans Private student loans can help bridge the gap between financial aid your family receives and the amount you need to cover remaining expenses. Use the student loan calculator at CollegeAve.com to look at the possible monthly payments, private loan interest rates, and repayment terms. You may also consider private parent loans if you have strong credit and are able to take on the debt. Private parent loans such as those at College Ave, offer a choice of fixed and variable rates and no origination fees, unlike federal parent PLUS loan options. "When looking for a lender, ask questions about the terms of the loan," said Joe DePaulo, co-founder, and CEO of College Ave Student Loans. "Make sure you understand everything from the interest rate to the terms of repayment, so you can get the best option for your family." For more information and tips about financing your child's college education, visit CollegeAveStudentLoans.com. Source: BPT

d-mars.com June 2022 | 13

FREE

HEALTH & WELLNESS JOURNAL

June 2022

Inspire, Inform & Educate

31th Edition

EPA Administrator, Michael S. Regan, Focused on

Clean Air and Water

for Communities of Color

16-17

INSIDE

Understanding of Postpartum Depression

Tips for Managing and Minimizing Stress Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

Medicaid and CHIP Give Children Access To Behavioral Health Services

14 | June 2022 HEALTH

Tips for Managing and Minimizing Stress By Stacy M. Brown

NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

mericans experience varying levels of stress for a wide variety of reasons and many struggles to find healthy ways to manage it. Minimizing occasional stress is important as it can affect overall health and well-being. Stress can feel overwhelming at times but setting aside time to unwind each day to focus on your physical and mental health can help you manage those feelings. To better manage occasional feelings of stress, consider incorporating the following into your daily routine:

1 2

Prioritize exercise Research has found that exercise in any form can help reduce occasional stress and provide a natural distraction from other thoughts and worries.[1] Taking 30 minutes a day to focus on movement, whether going for a walk, taking a yoga class or practicing high-intensity training, can support moods and help manage stress. Just don't forget to hydrate! 2. Safeguard sleep Sleep is important for your overall well-being.[2] A survey conducted by the American Psychological Association found that many adults report that their stress increases when the length and quality of sleep decreases.[3] To help you fall asleep and stay asleep, try limiting or turning off distracting devices like the television, computer or cellphone before bed and getting into bed earlier to encourage achieving a full eight hours of rest. With these changes, the quality of sleep should improve, leaving you feeling happier, more refreshed, and better able to accomplish tasks on your to-do list.

3. Appease stress with passion A study published in The Annals of Behavioral Medicine found that finding a passion to pursue not only reduces stress levels but also contributes to greater happiness overall.[4] Finding passion in a hobby or activity you love is a form of self-care and can make life feel a little less heavy. Setting aside time each day to focus on projects like decorating, painting, joining a book club,

or whatever inspires you can offer a sense of excitement and something to look forward to. It can even be an opportunity to reset your overall outlook and mood. Acting on something you are truly passionate about is sure to keep stress levels at bay, so don't hesitate to start a new project today.

4. Wellness support with botanicals According to a poll from the American Psychological Association, more than half of Americans experience feelings of stress during their days.[5] Managing stress is important to our overall health and immune system, so choosing products that support both of those aspects of wellness is equally important. With a dietary supplement like Emergen-C Ashwagandha, you can reduce occasional feelings of stress*^ and support your immune system*. [6] For more information visit www.emergenc.com. Focusing on how we can reduce occasional stress and finding ways to manage it on an ongoing basis offers a variety of wellness benefits. Simple everyday changes such as being active, getting a good night's sleep, actively participating in passion projects and incorporating a daily supplement that supports the immune system are habits that can all add up to support well-being. [1] https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/indepth/exercise-and-stress/art-20044469 - US, Mayo Clinic, 2020 [2] https://healthysleep.med.harvard.edu/need-sleep/whats-in-it-for-you/ health - US, The Division of Sleep Medicine at Harvard Medical School, 2008 [3] https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2013/sleep - US, American Psychological Association, 2013 [4] https://www.ucmerced.edu/sites/ucmerced.edu/files/documents/ zawadzki-paper-2015.pdf - US, The Society of Behavioral Medicine, 2015 [5] https://www.stress.org/daily-life - US, The American Institute of Stress, 2022 [6] *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. ^Antioxidants† for immune support and Ashwagandha to help reduce occasional feelings of stress*.† Vitamin C, Zinc & Manganese

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Source: BPT

June 2022 | 15

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16 | June 2022 HEALTH

EPA Administrator, Michael S. Regan, Focused on

Clean Air and W for Communities of Color By d-mars.com News Provider

.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael S. Regan remains on a journey to justice. He said President Joe Biden’s historic bipartisan infrastructure bill provides an opportunity to finally rid America of poisonous lead pipes and free communities of color of the toxins that have polluted their neighborhoods for centuries. “I’m the first Black man ever to lead this agency, the first to graduate from a historically Black college (North Carolina A&T) leading this agency,” said Regan, who made a special appearance on the National Newspaper Publishers Association’s live daily morning news program, “Let It Be Known.” The program can be viewed on youtube.com/blackpressusatv, facebook. com/BlackPressUSA, and Twitter @ BlackPressUSA. During a recent discussion with NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., Regan declared that the Biden-Harris administration is “passionate about the environment and public health.” The bipartisan infrastructure law invests $3.5 billion in cleaning up superfund sites and addressing the nation’s legacy of pollution, he stated. Regan said the law delivers more than $50 billion to EPA to improve America’s drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure. Further, it provides $15 billion to the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (SR F) for Lead Ser v ic e Line

Replacement, $4 billion to the Drinking Water SRF for Emerging Contaminants, and $5 billion to Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Grants to address emerging contaminants.

There are still 6 to 10 million lead services lines in cities and towns across the country, many in communities of color and low-income neighborhoods,” stated Regan, who also will appear later this year on PBS-TV’s “The Chavis Chronicles,” hosted by Dr. Chavis. Because of the investments in the infrastructure law, millions of American families will no

longer have to fear the harmful health effects caused by lead and other pollutants in their water, Regan asserted. He recounted a visit to Lowndes County, Alabama, where he found disturbing facts about water in communities of color. Regan said he witnessed homes with malfunctioning septic systems that discharged untreated sewage into backyards. “Where little children play,” he added. “There also was straight piping into lagoons and to have to see children walk around delicately so that they don’t sink or get bogged down into their own front yards. This is not the America that we all know it should be.” He continued: “This is unacceptable. Safe drinking water, safe sewer systems, you know, this is a basic right. These individuals deserve what every American deserves: clean water and a safe environment.” On a visit to Wilkins Elementary School in Jackson, Mississippi, Regan recounted another difficult-to-stomach experience for young children of color. City officials declared a citywide mandate to boil water as Regan arrived because of the discovery of toxic chemicals. Regan said he had scheduled time to speak with second and third graders and found port-a-potties stationed outside the school. “It looked like a worksite, and many of the kids had already been sent home because they couldn’t prepare food because of the water,” Regan remarked. “This is on the heels of a pandemic. But the kids who remained behind were so excited because they got to see someone who looked like them in my position and someone who cared.” Regan said in each location he visits, he’s sure to invite the national media to accurately report what’s going on in communities across the nation. “The bipartisan infrastructure provides resources for our communities. There are matching grants and forgivable loans, which means more of our communities have an opportunity to compete for these grants,” he stated. “We are also making $50 million available for technical assistance to help our communities to become more competitive. I’ve written a letter to every governor in the country outlining the criteria by which we believe those resources should be spent.”

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June 2022 | 17 HEALTH

Water Regan continued:

“I’ve traveled and met with mayors because a lot of this action starts at the ground level.” Regan said he developed a passion for public service as a young person. His father graduated from North Carolina A&T and served in Vietnam, working as an agricultural extension agent and with the national guard. For 40 years, Regan’s mother worked as a nurse. “I grew up with the desire to contribute to society because of what I saw in my home,” he exclaimed. Regan studied environmental science and earth science. Notably, he said Biden’s proposed 2023 budget request for EPA provides $11.9 billion to advance key priorities, including tackling the climate crisis, delivering environmental justice, protecting air quality, upgrading the nation’s aging water infrastructure, and rebuilding core functions at the Agency. Regan said EPA continues to prioritize addressing climate change with the focus and resources the crisis demands. “At EPA, we know both climate mitigation and adaptation are essential components of the strategy to reduce the threats and impact of climate change,” Regan said. “We will invest in programs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including an additional $100 million for air quality grants to states and tribes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions on a local and regional scale.” Regan further acknowledged that the communities hardest hit by pollution and climate change are most often communities of color, indigenous communities, rural communities, and poor communities. “For generations, many of these vulnerable communities have been overburdened with higher instances of polluted air, water, and land,” Regan said. “This inequity of environmental protection is not just an environmental justice issue but also a civil rights concern. Neither an individual’s skin color nor the wealth of their zip code should determine whether they have clean air to breathe, safe water to drink, or healthy environments in which their children can play. “I am not afraid to enforce the laws on the books to make sure our children are breathing clean air.” Source: National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA)

Medicaid and CHIP Give Children Access To Behavioral Health Services By d-mars.com News Provider

ver the last two years, the mental health crisis in the United States has gotten worse. A major reason for that is the COVID-19 pandemic, which has contributed to a rise in anxiety and depression among young people. But even before the pandemic, as many as one in six children in the United States between the ages of 6 and 17 had a treatable mental health disorder, a 2019 JAMA Pediatrics study found. For parents, it’s a stark reminder that mental health and support for children are crucial.

Young people are facing unprecedented stress. Increasing access to high-quality pediatric mental health services is a critical step to addressing the youth mental health crisis,” said Dr. Aditi Mallick, chief medical officer, Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. “As a physician and mother, I have seen firsthand how foundational mental health is to the overall health and wellbeing of our country’s children, and Medicaid and CHIP can help families access the care they need. If you think your child may need mental health services, you have health coverage options. One of those may be free or low-cost coverage through Medicaid and CHIP. Below are some frequently asked questions about these services. What types of mental health services are covered under Medicaid and CHIP? With Medicaid and CHIP coverage, children have access to a number of services to prevent, diagnose, and treat mental and behavioral health disorders, including: • Autism spectrum disorder • Attention deficit disorder • Anxiety disorders • Depression • Substance use disorder

Does my child qualify for Medicaid or CHIP? Eligibility generally depends on your income level and household size, and varies by state. You’ll find that some programs offer coverage to your entire family. Medicaid and CHIP enrollment is open year-round, and the process to apply has gotten faster. Many families can apply and find out if they qualify on the same day. To learn more about state-specific coverage options or to enroll, visit InsureKidsNow.gov or call 1-877-KIDS-NOW. Take charge of your child’s mental health Mental health care for children is an important part of their development. So, take time to explore your health coverage options, including Medicaid and CHIP. Looking for more mental health resources for children? Visit CDC.gov to learn more about children’s mental health. Information provided by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Source: StatePoint

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18 | June 2022 HEALTH

The Stigma Around Male Domestic Violence How do we discuss this issue and what can we ultimately do to help? How Male Abuse Is Minimized By Brianna Patt The Dallas Weekly

n an op-ed by Neffer Kerr titled, “Strong & Silent: Breaking the Stigma of Abuse Because Black Men Are Victims, Too,” by Ebony Magazine, Kerr recalls learning that her male friend, who was over six feet tall and gave off a facade of confidence, was being abused. All of these issues entered the forefront of her mind when Yasmine Elder killed Darius Ellis in 2017, forcing him to drink bleach. Kerr went on to express the dichotomy that male victims face due to how we view Black men, as well as calling for the creation of safe spaces for them to seek the help they need.

We need to make sure we are open to what someone is saying and not negating their experience by telling them they are allowing it to happen or laughing at them because of their gender. The most detrimental thing you can do to someone who is attempting to share their pain is to minimize, ridicule, or call them names. We always claim we want the men in our lives to be honest with us, but that cannot happen in an emotionally hostile or dismissive environment. Abuse knows no color, race, age, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or gender. Kerr said. According to Analysis of Family Violence Fatalities in 2020 found that of the 228 Texans killed by their intimate partners, 40 women killed their male partners, a 28% increase from 2018 and 2019, with 30% being Black. The downplaying and ridicule male abuse victims face is something, according to Ryan Thomas, Community Education Program Manager at Hope’s Door New Beginning Center, linked to how children are socialized. “From a young age, girls are taught to disregard their boundaries, or you have to let boys cross if it’s because of love or affection, and boys were told, “stiff upper lip, don’t cry, you play like a girl.” So, we’re taught from a young age to devalue women. Society wants us to be in the

“man box.” So, men are supposed to be dominant and aggressive and all this stuff. That sets up a hierarchy already where one gender has power and control over the other. Essentially one’s dominant, one’s submissive and that’s the exact power and control dynamics of an abusive relationship. Society tells us that men should be dominant and women submissive. So, this doesn’t line up with the reality, that oftentimes men are abused. So, those gender stereotypes- we know that the more than someone adheres to them more strictly, the more likely they are to be accepting, abuse or violence in a relationship both as the abuser and as the victim as well,” Thomas said. In an article done by the World Economic Forum, Vanita Sundaram stated that among the young people she spoke to about whether or not violence was unacceptable provided a variety of responses, with them stating that men are innately violent. Women hitting men was seen as “unproblematic,” with people arguing that women are physically weaker and frail (thus, their use of violence was less significant). “This distinction between different forms of violence makes wholesale prevention difficult. Given that gender appears to be a primary influence on young people’s views on violence, schools should prioritize teaching about equality between the genders in order to effectively challenge the acceptance and justification of some forms of violent behavior,” Sundaram said.

TheEffects EffectsofofDomestic Violence The Domestic on Men Violence on Men Thomas points out that while the physical scars of the abuse men face will inevitably dissipate the deeper wounds are emotional. “The pain is temporary but being made to feel stupid, ugly, worthless, lazy. That lasts a whole lifetime. And so that’s also minimized as men are not allowed to show emotions. So being made to feel stupid or to wear this and lazy, doesn’t just show on the outside,” Thomas said. In a paper titled, “Black Men’s Intimate Partner Violence Victimization, HelpSeeking, and Barriers to HelpSeeking,” Meagan A. Stewart explains that for Black men, there’s pressure to maintain “hegemonic masculinity” (the masculine ideal that society tells men to aspire to and the standards against which men are compared). However, due to white supremacy, they can’t get these masculine ideals and are instead stereotyped. Stewart argues that this leads to an environment where Black men are less likely to be believed about their abuse. “Men of Color are often unable to reach hegemonic masculine ideals due to white

supremacy embedded within these ideals (Connell & Messerschmidt, 2005; Romero, 2017). Black men specifically have been stereotyped to be aggressive, hypersexual, routinely labeled as criminals (Collins, 2009; Roth, 2004), and have a history of police, legal system, and medical maltreatment (Griffith et al., 2011; Jaiswal & Halkitis, 2019). These contexts create an environment where Black men may not seek IPV-related help when needed, and if they do, they might experience disbelief by professionals and systems, and encounter police brutality as assumed perpetrators (Fugate et al., 2005; Graham et al., 2020; Jaiswal & Halkitis, 2019),” Stewart said. According to Thomas, the effects of intimate partner violence on men range from physical issues like a shortened life expectancy to mental health issues. “Devastating losses to life expectancy and health, all sorts of physical ailments like Alzheimer’s, and of course, cortisol and adrenaline, pumping through a system that can have not only those physical effects which could be stomach issues. It could be complex PTSD, anxiety, depression, and self-destructive behaviors. I think the emotional toll that it takes, often, the deepest and then the things that we can you know when we’re young filter, you know, forever retained a kind of, you know, how we are going to react in future situations and so, the real tragedy of the year and so, that gets passed down generations,” Thomas said. As for what we can do both systemically and individually to help work against intimate partner violence, Thomas states we should work to stop using gendered reasons for how we treat others. He also states that when helping victims, we should focus on offering concern and validation. “The goal for anybody should be to show concern and validate. Hey, I see you, and I’m concerned, I’m worried about your safety. Then how can I help you explore options and resources? How can I support you in that endeavor, rather than saying, “you need to get out.” Because what makes somebody a victim of abuse is that somebody is constantly telling them what to do with that power and control. So even if we’re trying to be helpful to a loved one, and say, “You need to get out, we’re disempowering them.” So really, it’s about understanding that anybody can be a victim of abuse, it doesn’t discriminate- grandson’s abuse grandmother, males abuse males. We don’t have to be experts in it. We just have to be compassionate human beings,” he said. The Mend Project refers to this as harmful, and backs Thomas’ statement, arguing that it can be beneficial to the well-being of the victim. “On the other hand, providing

much-needed emotional validation is easy to do and will go a long way in helping the victim. Emotional validation is the process of learning about, understanding, and expressing acceptance of another person’s emotional experience. You do not need to understand their emotional experience, agree with it, or know the facts behind it in order to validate it.” Thomas also states that women are not the main assailants, which leaves a gap in the abuse that women perpetuate against men, which goes unnoticed. “It’s more likely that for the women who do perpetrate violence against men, they’re not the primary aggressors. That does leave, of course, this gaping hole of women who do use and are violent towards men, right. They’ll oftentimes that’s not noticed, or it’s overshadowed because of you know, the stigma. But I always just like to say, women do suffer disproportionately more,” he said.

Hopefor forChange Changeand and Hope Understanding Understanding While Thomas hopes the recent Depp vs Heard defamation trial can shine a light on this issue, he still does not see much change on the horizon. “I think if any positive that could happen is that the recognition that thiswhether it did or not happen to whomever-it could happen to men, right? It can have just the same social, psychological, emotional, and social consequences. For the children, we cannot forget about the kids who are witnessing this is going to be much more likely to grow up to be abusive or victims themselves. But the short answer is no, I haven’t seen that stigma change much yet,” he said. Thomas states that we can better understand intimate partner violence than men are afflicted with, we must better understand abuse as a whole. “I think to understand that domestic abuse is about power and control and that it’s not about why you stay or reasons to stay. It’s what are the barriers to leaving, right? Because only when we can understand the whole power control dynamic, can we then understand the barriers? And then can we find a pathway out of that forest,” he said.

Resourcesfor forBlack BlackMen MenFacing Resources Facing Domestic Domestic ViolenceViolence • Hotline Resource:

thehotlineorgwhat-toexpect-when-you-contact-us

• Shelters for Male Victims: FamilyPlace.org

Source: National Newspaper Publishers Association

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June 2022 | 19 HEALTH

713.597.4499 877.214.5758

theallencg@gmail.com www.allencounselinggroup.com

Understanding of Postpartum Depression

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.

Tami V. Allen, MS, LPC Contributing Writer

Texas Certified Mediator - Parenting agreements and relationship dissolution.

aving a baby is one of the most precious gifts of life but it’s very natural to feel overwhelmed after the birth, having to adjust to a new way of life. But what if you are, eventually, not able to move beyond the feelings of being overwhelmed, sleep deprivation, anxiety, unexplained crying spells, irritability, and wanting to disconnect from others? Could this be depression or postpartum depression? Understanding the difference can give you better insight and help you to know when to seek professional help.

“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.”

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Experiencing postpartum depression is unique for every woman, however, there are symptoms they all have in common which can appear within four weeks of delivery. In addition to the ones mentioned above, the most tell-tale signs are after you have this beautiful baby that you’ve waited so long to arrive, when you look at the baby, there is no feeling of joy as expected.

You feel disconnected and detached from the baby and may even have thoughts of hurting the baby. You may pull away from your partner and family and feel lonely or neglected by them at the

Dr. Mikenah Joyy and Dr. Simone Ellis

same time even when they are around. Occasionally, you feel angered with no obvious trigger. There is also a feeling of intense sadness and hopelessness which may eventually lead to suicidal thoughts. An alternative to postpartum depression is postpartum psychosis which is rare but more severe than normal depression. These symptoms usually appear within two weeks or a few months and you begin to lose touch with reality. That may include hallucinations where you hear or see things that others do not. Delusions (false beliefs), paranoia, confusion and disorientation, and episodes of mania (extreme raid changes in mood and emotions) can lead to aggression towards others, and extreme changes in appetite, weight, and sleep habits. These symptoms require immediate medical and psychiatric attention to help reduce and manage these symptoms. Postpartum depression is treatable with intensely personal and cognitive behavioral therapy, bright light therapy, electroconvulsive therapy, and medications. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first drug to treat postpartum depression in 2019. Brexanolone is the generic name given as an infusion for 2.5 days/60 hours. Many women worry about the side effects of breastfeeding, which is a conversation to have with your medical professional. Some immediate self-help strategies include asking for help from others, sleeping as much as possible especially when the baby is sleeping, saving time to indulge yourself, getting some exercise and making sure to eat properly, focusing on deep breathing when feeling anxious and overwhelmed, and lastly, get some sunlight and let the natural light come through the windows when you are not sleeping.

For more information, you can talk to your medical professional, join support groups, and do your own research. You can visit Allen Counseling Group on the web at www.AllenCounselingGroup.com. For questions, email Tami@AllenCounselingGroup.com or call 713-597-4499. Like and follow the Allen Counseling Group on social media: FB: @AllenCounseling2017 IG: @AllenCounselingGroup Twitter: @CounselingAllen

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References: PsychCentral: https://psychcentral.com/depression/postpartum-depression#nextsteps Postpartum Support Line: https://www.postpartum.net, 800-944-4773 National Suicide Prevention Line: 800-273-8255

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20 | June 2022

You can help prevent

CHILD ABUSE Be the voice for those who can’t speak up for themselves.

If you see or suspect ANY abusive behavior of a minor, call the Texas Family and Protective Services at 1-800-252-5400

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June 2022 | 21

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22 | June 2022 EDUCATION & CAREER

4 Skills Veterans Bring

as Team Members in Civilian Careers

By d-mars.com News Provider

ach year, the U.S. military generates thousands of professionals with highly specialized, transferable skills. Beyond technical and operational expertise, every service member gains skills that help keep teams afloat and foster cohesion and productivity, serving them well in their civilian careers. During Military Appreciation Month, it's important to recognize the value of these skills that veterans bring to businesses and organizations that employ them. Microsoft Military Affairs - which helps veterans and transitioning service members get their footing in tech - recognizes veterans' unquantifiable value and experience in their civilian work. To help you understand the value-add veterans are to the businesses and organizations that hire them, MMA has highlighted four skills former service members bring to the table.

Adaptability

If you ask a veteran what they 'did' on active duty, the answer will be impressive. During their time in the military, service members experience continuous on-the-job learning, constantly gaining new skillsets and specialties within new teams and environments. As agile, resourceful learners, veterans can pivot on a dime, bringing tenacity and personal initiative to every challenge. Cybersecurity, cloud administration, and cloud application development are quickly evolving

fields that require adaptability, which former service members have in spades. This adaptability allows veterans to thrive in an environment of constant flux and can bridge critical knowledge gaps that drive new solutions to business challenges.

Resilience Resilience is part of any service member's training. Military service members know how to complete the mission set before them, whether it's deployment to crisis areas, moving families to a new base or country, sacrificing holidays and time with loved ones, or enormous physical and mental challenges.

A veteran's experience in overcoming obstacles and "staying on target" served them well during their military service and will continue to serve them as civilian and private sector professionals, particularly as the work environment and customer needs continue to evolve.

Teamwork

Teamwork is a critical skill in the military because members must operate in unison for the mission to succeed. This "stronger together" mindset cultivates a deep understanding of the value each member brings to a team and how to facilitate trust to develop cohesion. Veterans know how to join, develop and empower a team to operate as a unit. These interpersonal skills allow former service members to work productively and establish trust with different groups and personalities,

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fostering collaboration and teamwork.

Leadership

Adaptability, resilience, and teamwork are all skills that ultimately make veterans agile, thoughtful leaders on any team. While the pressures they face on active duty are very different from those they'll face in civilian life, veterans can be relied on to bring decisiveness and poise to even the most stressful environments. Former service members are steady, focused, and equipped to make tough decisions in some of the most stressful situations. As crisis managers, they know how to manage stress, deescalate and provide balance in a challenging environment. This advanced degree of "grace under pressure" allows former service members to push through when a project doesn't go according to plan, find a solution and lead a team to success. These are just a few of the core skills veterans bring to their jobs outside of military service. To learn more about how Microsoft is helping former service members leverage their skills in the technology industry, visit Military. Microsoft.com and the Microsoft Software and Systems Academy page or follow Microsoft Military Affairs on LinkedIn. Source: BPT

June 2022 | 23

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24 | June 2022 EDUCATION & CAREER

Mostyn Law And 97.9 The Box Honor Houston’s Difference Makers In Education Checks, plaques awarded to 20 educators by Amber Mostyn during private reception

supported through an on-air campaign with 97.9 The Box (KBXX-FM Houston), which yielded over 1,000 nominations. A review committee then selected the News Provider Photo Source: Noisemaker Communications twenty winners, each of whom was acknowledged on-air FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: 97.9 The Box radio host JMac, Difference Maker honoree, and Amber Mostyn. ostyn Law’s second annual salute to Houston’s by Good Morning H-Town co-host JMac. Difference Makers in Education recognized twenty local teachers, coaches, and other educaHere’s a complete list of Mostyn Law’s 2022 Difference Makers in Education: tors for the essential role they play in strengthening the Donald G. Prier, II Carver High School (Aldine ISD) Matthew Rideaux Nimitz High School community. During a private reception at Trez Bistro Lawrence Ekeke Duiett Middle School Lisa Latson Tanglewood Middle School and Wine Bar, Amber Mostyn, co-founder of Mostyn Briana Villarreal-Surratt Clear Falls Highschool Erica Agnew Magnolia West High School Law, presented each honoree with a check for $200 on behalf of her firm and 1-800-TRUCKWRECK. Shawntel Davis Bussey Elementary Kristina Craft Albright Middle School “I cannot say enough good things about the positive Rodney Emilien Kipp Liberation College Prep Erika Sanchez Anderson Elementary School impact that teachers, coaches, and counselors have made Brittney Johnson Lockhart Elementary Patrick Rodriguez Sam Houston Elem in the lives of my children,” observes Amber Mostyn, Bryce Wyatt Manvel High School Tamella Mayberry Burton Elementary a working mother of two. “We put our kids in their hands every day. There are so many people to thank Northshore High School Erlene Peterson Heritage Rose Elementary School Christopher Carter (9th-grade campus) in the educational community and each installment of our Difference Makers program introduces us to more Brandon Jackson ABN Kandyce Blackwell Yes Prep of these dedicated professionals.” Joel Muñoz Baker Ripley Schools Cynthia Johnson Willowridge High School Mostyn Law’s Difference Makers in Education was By d-mars.com

Source: Noisemaker Communications

EDUCATION & CAREER

Ready to Jumpstart Your Stem Career? A Biological Sciences or Biochemistry Degree Can Help f you haven't considered a STEM career, now may be the time to explore your options. Advancements in recent years have highlighted the need for positions in science and medicine, resulting in an industry boom and a growing job market for potential STEM program graduates. Two burgeoning career paths in STEM are biological sciences and biochemistry.

these industries is promising. Employment for biological technicians is forecast to grow 7% through 2030. This translates to an average of about 11,800 job openings each year over the next decade. As a biological scientist, you can expect to earn a median annual wage of $85,290 (BLS). For those entering the field of biochemistry, the job market is forecast to grow at an annual rate of 5%. In 2020, there were 34,800 biochemistry jobs, and you can expect to earn an average salary of $94,270 per year.

Whatisisbiological biologicalscience? science? What biochemistry? biochemistry?

Howcan canI Ienter enterthese STEM How fields? these STEM fields?

Biological sciences comprise several branches of biology, including environmental studies, genetics, botany, and microbiology. Biological scientists study living organisms and the environment. Biochemistry, on the other hand, focuses on a wide array of subjects, such as basic chemistry, the properties and function of biomolecules, and the mechanisms of cellular function and living organisms. This knowledge has several applications, from developing medicines to creating new, disease-resistant variants of common crops. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in both of

If you want to get in on the ground floor of these growing career fields, consider a bachelor's degree in either biological sciences or biochemistry. A Bachelor of Science in biological sciences helps you develop a valuable and broad understanding of many disciplines in biology. Because of the flexibility of this degree, you can enter several industries through an entry-level biological services position. Industries that offer the highest level of employment for biological scientists, according to BLS, include the federal executive branch, scientific research and development services, academia,

By d-mars.com News Provider

pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing and management, scientific and technical consulting services. Specific career paths could include: • • • • • • • • •

Dentist Environmental protection technician Forensic science technician Nursing Physical therapist Pharmacologist Zoologist Veterinarian High School teacher

A Bachelor of Science in biochemistry can prepare you for a career in science or medicine. According to U.S. News, a degree in this field can prepare you for several professions, including: • Agricultural scientist • Biochemist • Biological or biomedical engineer • Chemical engineer • Federal regulator of biochemical products • Food researcher and developer • Laboratory technician • Pharmaceutical researcher

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• Process engineer • Science writer

After receiving a bachelor's in biochemistry, you'll also be prepared for several full-time entry-level positions in STEM, research, or education. You can also begin a postgraduate health program to expand your job prospects.

Readytotoget gettotowork? work? Ready If advancing your career in science or medicine is your goal, consider a career in either biological sciences or biochemistry. Arizona State University offers online degree programs in these areas to take your career to the next level. Recognized as the nation's most innovative university, ASU Online brings coursework to life through immersive science labs and digital experiences. To learn more about ASU Online biological sciences and biochemistry programs, visit ASUOnline.asu. edu. Source: BPT

June 2022 | 25

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26 | June 2022 FINANCE

Just Keep Swimming By James Marshall Contributing Writer

n the words of the world’s most lovable fish Dory from the Disney movie Finding Nemo, “Just keep swimming! Just keep swimming!”

These are nerve-racking times for investors. The stock market is up one day, and down the next three days! This is the kind of uncertainty and volatility that makes some investors sell their stocks and put all their money in a bank money market account.

“History doesn't repeat itself but it often rhymes,” as Mark Twain is often reputed to have said.

Well, do not despair. We have been here before, and as a matter of fact, what we are witnessing today is the natural order of things. Water will always find its level, and stocks will often reveal their true value. This pullback or sell-off in the market is effectively pruning back a lot of the overgrowth we have had in the stock market. This is the arrival of the check after a few years of irrational exuberance and a Go-Go mentality regarding the stock market.

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So, don’t panic sell, or try to time the market. Embrace the swings by taking advantage of this opportunity to buy some good companies at lower prices. Consider keeping 50% to 60% of your portfolio in safe or guaranteed holdings. Make sure you stay true to your risk tolerance and manage for the growth you need; not the maximum you can get. And the best way to know this information is to establish and maintain a comprehensive financial plan. Review your plan, rebalance your investment portfolio as needed, and make sure you are maintaining the proper levels of cash reserves. And remember to keep building wealth. Peace! James Marshall is a registered investment advisor registered in Texas and Kentucky. He can be reached at James@ Marshallyourmoney.com. Visit him on the web at Marshallyourmoney. com.

June 2022 | 27

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28 | June 2022 FINANCE

Being Prepared for Life’s Milestones Means Planning Ahead With Insurance can help with out-of-pocket expenses that you may incur as a result of an accident at camp or elsewhere.

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rom weddings and graduations to summer camps and new jobs, there are many of life's milestone moments this time of year. If you or your family are celebrating significant events, it's important to be prepared for what follows these moments with the right financial protection. "Every major milestone brings new things to think about and making sure you have the right insurance coverage for each life change can bring you peace of mind," said Josh Police, Executive Vice President, Distribution and Business Development, Boston Mutual Life Insurance Company. "Life is always evolving and being financially prepared helps ensure you're ready for whatever happens next." Unsure what life changes might require you to take stock of your insurance needs? Here are four major milestones and insurance options you should consider for each:

Summercamps camps Summer Whether it's your youngster's first-day camp or your teen's first weeklong overnight adventure, it's always an exciting time for parents to see their children try new things and make the most of their days off. However, just as you pack them the essentials to stay comfortable and safe at camp, you should also consider extra insurance options. Children will be trying so many new things and unfortunately sometimes the unexpected occurs. Accident coverage can complement your medical coverage, which

Graduations Graduations High school and college graduations bring a wide range of emotions, including pride, joy and nostalgia. It's a time full of possibilities as a new chapter begins. It might also include starting a new job or moving to a new location, so it's important to think ahead and plan as much as possible. If you're looking for a sensible graduation gift for a young adult, consider purchasing a whole life insurance policy for the graduate that builds cash value. Life insurance isn't top of mind for many young adults, so this gift is a great way to set them up for success and help them plan for the future. Plus, the sooner a policy is in place, the more time is available for funds to accumulate.

Jobs Jobs First comes graduation and then comes the job. Whether it's the first job out of college or a career change, many people are starting new positions with eagerness and enthusiasm. A job is meant to help you grow professionally and also pay your bills. A steady income is a core reason why people work, so what happens if you're suddenly unable to? Be proactive by getting disability insurance to protect your income in the event you become disabled. Even better, have short-term and long-term disability coverage so you are covered no matter the length of time you're unable to work.

Retirement Retirement

Retirement is a new life chapter that allows you to travel, explore hobbies, learn new things and spend more time with loved ones. It's an exciting time of life full of changes, and that means making sure your insurance needs continue to be met. Now that you don't have an employer, you may need to find different types of insurance on your own. As for life insurance, if you already have a whole life insurance plan, you're in good shape because often that plan can be continued after retirement at the same premium by submitting payments directly to the insurance carrier. If you don't have coverage through work or need to make changes, speaking with an insurance representative can help you identify your options. You should consider adding critical illness/specified disease coverage, which provides a lump sum cash benefit directly to you upon the diagnosis of a covered condition on the plan. Life's major milestones are important times to celebrate, but they are also important times to prepare for the future. By exploring your options with a carrier such as Boston Mutual Life Insurance Company, you can find different options for each milestone to set up financial protection for the future for you and your loved ones. Learn more at BostonMutual.com. Policy Series: WPS-ACC 07/15 END-95(ESO)(20/21) GDP 100 & GDP 5/10 WS-CI 4/12 335-5000 5/22

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Source: BPT

June 2022 | 29 REAL ESTATE

Moved and Bought a Home? Here’s What You Should Know By d-mars.com News Provider

uch of the country is still in the middle of a red-hot real estate market. Home values are rising due to high demand and first-time homebuyers should be aware of how the value of their home impacts the way their premiums are calculated. Location and structure type are two examples of considerations that can affect home insurance premiums, but so do the features of the home, policy limits, and, in some states, even a homeowner's personal finances. Policyholders should be aware of the variables that are factored into their insurance coverage.

the local construction costs per square foot, and construction details unique to your home." While replacement costs refer to the cost of rebuilding a house to the same standard as before, it does not include features such as the neighborhood, amenities, and even proximity to schools which can affect a property's attractiveness. "Replacement costs and market value are often used interchangeably, but they are two completely different concepts. Market value accounts for how the neighborhood and its conveniences impact a property's attractiveness to buyers, while replacement costs only refer to the expense of rebuilding a home after a loss," Lee said.

Location Location Location is perhaps the largest component when it comes to the costs of your insurance premium since it deals with exposure and hazard to the home's physical structure. The type of home you have, where you live and the state or city in which you reside can drastically affect how much you will pay. In fact, location is such a primary factor that coverage in certain areas may require special policies. For example, many homeowners moved from the city to the country during the pandemic and found that they now live in a wildfire- or flood-prone areas and that additional coverage is needed due to environmental risk factors not covered under available homeowners insurance policies in the area. Homeowners living in or near large urban areas may find that their premiums cost more due to the higher cost of construction or repairs. Take a close look at what factors are impacting the cost of your home insurance rate. The size of your home, regional vulnerability to natural disasters, and different building material options like brick or wood and their relationship to the environment may determine your premium's cost.

Replacement Replacementcost cost The more your home costs to replace, the more you will need in coverage to insure it. "Replacement cost is a measure of the amount it would cost to replace or rebuild your home after a loss with a similar home of like kind and quality," said Bonnie Lee, Mercury Insurance vice president of property claims. "This amount takes into account factors such as the square footage of your home, Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

Deductible Deductible The insurance deductible is one of the most important parts of a homeowner's policy and plays a significant role when determining insurance premiums. The deductible is the amount of money a policyholder must pay before the policy pays out for repairs or a loss. For example, if covered damage to your home costs $20,000 and your deductible is $5,000, you would be responsible for the first $5,000 in damages and your insurance company would pay the remaining $15,000. Homeowners that pay a higher deductible may decrease the cost of their premiums but may have to pay more out of pocket when filing a claim. Home insurance premiums are calculated based on a number of factors that homeowners should take into consideration when researching the best coverage for their needs at a reasonable cost. Source: BPT

30 | June 2022 REAL ESTATE

HOUSTON HOUSING AFFORDABILITY DECLINES WITH SOARING PRICES

About half of all Houston-area households could afford to purchase a median-priced home during Q1 2022 By d-mars.com News Provider

ewer households throughout the Greater Houston area could afford to purchase the median-priced home in the first quarter of 2022, as home prices and mortgage interest rates climbed. Homebuyers in the Houston Area need 26.9 percent more income than they did a year ago to afford the median-priced home, according to the newly launched Houston Association of Realtors® (HAR) Housing Affordability Index. HAR’s Housing Affordability Index measures the percentage of households that can afford to purchase a median-priced, single-family home for regions and select counties in Texas. About half of all Houston-area households, 47 percent, earned the minimum annual income needed to purchase a $330,800 home in the first quarter of 2022. That’s down from 58 percent in the first quarter of 2021. The monthly payment, including taxes and insurance, on a 30-year, fixed-rate loan would be $1,840, assuming a 20 percent down payment and an effective composite first quarter interest rate of 3.82 percent. The Houston Area was more affordable compared to the Austin and San Antonio metro areas, according to HAR’s Housing Affordability Index. The Dallas metro area had comparable affordability to the Houston Area for the first quarter of 2022. However, the analysis found all metro areas examined are less affordable today than they were a year ago. Households in Texas need to earn 29.8 percent more income than they did a year ago to afford a typical home. A household income of $73,200 was required to qualify for the purchase of a $328,990 statewide median-priced, single-family home in the first quarter of 2022. Compared with Texas, 45 percent of the nation’s households could afford to purchase a $368,200 median-priced home, which required a minimum annual income of $74,400 to make monthly payments of $1,860. Nationwide affordability was down from 55 percent at this time last year. “With rising home prices and mortgage interest rates at the top of most consumers’ minds, HAR felt compelled to provide an easy-to-understand measurement for gauging housing affordability,” said HAR Chair Jennifer Wauhob with Better Homes and Gardens Gary Greene. “We plan to produce these reports on a quarterly basis to help consumers make informed decisions about the home buying process.” “The median price of a single-family home in Houston has increased nearly $80,000 in the last two years, and this makes it difficult for families to afford to buy a home,” said Patrick Jankowski, Senior Vice President of Research for the Greater Houston Partnership, who assisted with reviewing the data. “As home prices and interest rates continue to increase, we could see more people stay in rentals or multi-family units because they cannot afford to move, and some people are going to have to accept less house than they originally wanted to buy.” The opportunity for Texans to buy a home was made more challenging by the lack of growth in the median income of households across the state. The chart below illustrates how the minimum household income needed to purchase a home changed year over year.

Minimum Qualifying Household Income Region Q1-2022 Q1-2021 Change ($)

Change (%)

Austin Metro

$120,400 $90,000

$30,400

33.8%

Dallas Metro

$81,200

$61,600

$19,600

31.8%

Houston $73,600 Metro

$58,000

$15,600

26.9%

San Antonio Metro

$71,600

$54,800

$16,800

30.7%

Texas

$73,200

$56,400

$16,800

29.8%

U.S.

$74,400

$58,800

$15,600

26.5%

Highlights from the first-quarter 2022 Housing Affordability report: • Compared to the previous quarter, housing affordability declined in 14 tracked counties and improved in two counties (Matagorda County and Wharton County). • Compared to the previous year, 14 counties saw a drop in housing affordability, one county remained unchanged (Matagorda County) and one county improved (Colorado County). • The most affordable counties were Chambers County (56 percent), Colorado County (54 percent), and Wharton County (54 percent). In Chambers County, the minimum household income needed to qualify for a $316,495 home was $74,400. • In Harris County, Memorial Villages, River Oaks, and West University Place were the least affordable. Purchasing a median-priced home in River Oaks required the highest minimum household income of $585,200. Only 2 percent of households in Harris County could afford to purchase the median-priced home in River Oaks.

• The Aldine Area was the most affordable in Harris County—54 percent of Harris County households made the minimum annual income of $58,800 to afford a median-priced home in the Aldine Area. • In Fort Bend County, Stafford was the most affordable area—69 percent of Fort Bend County households were able to afford the median-priced home in Stafford based on the annual income. Fulshear was the least affordable (31 percent). • In Montgomery County, Willis was the most affordable area—68 percent of Montgomery County households were able to afford the median-priced home in Willis based on the annual income. The Woodlands was the least affordable (33 percent). • In Brazoria County, Angleton was the most affordable—69 percent of Brazoria County households were able to afford the median-priced home in Angleton based on the annual income. Manvel was the least affordable (29%). • In Galveston County, La Marque was the most affordable—64 percent of Galveston County households were able to afford the median-priced home in La Marque based on the annual income. Bolivar Peninsula was the least affordable (31%). • Fort Bend County required the highest minimum qualifying income in the Great Houston Area. A minimum annual income of $95,200 was needed to purchase a $380,000 home; 51 percent of households in Fort Bend County could afford to purchase the median-priced home. For HAR’s full Housing Affordability report and data tables, please visit www.har.com.

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Source: Houston Association of Realtors® (HAR)

June 2022 | 31

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Business Journals 178

Articles inside

About half of all Houston-area households could afford to purchase a median-priced home during Q1 2022

Just Keep Swimming

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The Texas Association of Real Estate Brokers celebrates their 65th annual conference in Houston!

Being Prepared for Life’s Milestones Means Planning Ahead With Insurance