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August 2022

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180th Edition

Sam Mac Entertainment and Mike T. Productions Host a Party With a Purpose on September 3rd

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Co-CEO and founder, Sam Ford aka “Sam Mac” and Co-CEO and Chairman, Mike Taylor aka “Mike T.”

10-11

INSIDE

02

2022 Top 30 Women of Houston Awards Gala

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5 Services That Can Make a Big Impact on Small Businesses

25

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2 | August 2022

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d-mars.com is proud to continue our partnership with the community, publishing positive content and success stories promoting the advancement of our African American businesses and civic and community leaders.

As this is National Black Business Month, we celebrate the contributions of all Black business owners. Our Black business community is valuable, leaving a legacy and contributing to the well-being of our community, city, and nation.

This month’s cover story Port of Houston

COVER STORY Sam Mac Entertainment and Mike T. Productions Host a Party With a Purpose on September 3rd

CHIEF OF STAFF & MANAGING EDITOR Kimberly Floyd

DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Erick Fontejon OPERATIONS COORDINATOR Bria Casteel SENIOR PROJECT COORDINATOR Lindsey Ford ASSISTANT SALES REPRESENTATIVE Tiffany Brown PHOTOGRAPHY Grady Carter L.C. Poullard DISTRIBUTION Mike Jones CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Stacy M. Brown Marla Lewis d-mars.com

City of Houston

HISD

CONTENTS

PUBLISHER & CEO Keith J. Davis, Sr.

ART DIRECTOR Angel Rosa

–Kenneth Chenault, CEO and Chairman of American Express (2001 - 2018) and the 3rd African American CEO of a Fortune 500 company

METRO

BEHIND THE JOURNAL

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla

“Many people don’t focus enough on execution. If you make a commitment to get something done, you need to follow through on that commitment.”

highlights Sam Ford aka “Sam Mac” and Mike Taylor aka “Mike T.” Known for sophistication and first-class events, this duo has not only set the standard for first-rate events but raised the bar. This year marks 22 years of the “Sam Mac All White Event” hosted on September 3rd that will provide first-rate entertainment and networking, also bringing the community together for this party with a purpose.

As always, thank you for your continued support of d-mars.com, progressing our publication’s efforts to highlight the communities in which we serve, live, and work. Partnering together, we succeed in making positive things happen.

10-11 04 BUSINESS 04 5 Services That Can Make a Big Impact on Small Businesses 04 First E-commerce App for Black Businesses that Expands Brands and Increases Visibility 06 An Unhappy Workforce Can Cost Money. How To Turn Things Around 08 COMMUNITY 08 NFL Partners with Contract with Black America to Strengthen Economic Equality 12 Report: Human Rights Violations in Prisons Throughout Southern United States Cause Disparate and Lasting Harm in Black Communities 13-20 HEALTH & WELLNESS 14 How to Work Out Without Excuses 15 Is Your Sleep Apnea Under Control?

16 After Two Years, It’s Time to Resume Health Screenings and Procedures, Anesthesiologists Advise 17 Benefits of Taking Aspirin and the Main Reasons People Take It 18 Men Under the Influence of Women Are More Likely to Take Better Care of Their Health 19 It’s Time to Focus On Whole Person Health 22 EDUCATION & CAREER 22 Study: Job Displacement Affects Blacks, Women, and Non-Degreed Individuals Most 24 HBCU News: The Propel Center and the Walt Disney Company Announce a New Collaboration Designed to Curate the Next Cohort of Storytellers and Innovators at HBCUs 26 26 26 28

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4 | August 2022 BUSINESS

BUSINESS

First E-commerce App for Black Businesses that Expands Brands and Increases Visibility By d-mars.com News Provider

5 Services That Can Make a Big T Impact on Small Businesses By d-mars.com News Provider

I

f you own a small business, you know that it can be an incredibly rewarding yet challenging venture that requires balance, especially if you're working remotely. In fact, according to a survey, achieving work-life balance is the most important habit to cultivate to be successful in that environment. Luckily, you don't have to do it all on your own.

Companies like Office Depot support small business owners year-round with products and services to help them build and attract customers, maintain day-to-day operations, save time, and much more.

Checkout outthese thesefive fiveservices servicesthat thatsmall small Check business owners can leverage to help business owners can leverage to help empowertheir theirsuccess: success: empower 1. Copy and Print Services According to a recent survey by OnePoll on behalf of Office Depot, female small business owners said that next to cash grants (38%), marketing materials (29%) would have helped get their business off the ground. With Office Depot's print services, you can create and print marketing materials like business cards, presentations, labels, stickers, and more.

Additionally, if you need indoor or outdoor signage printed, you can choose from a wide selection of custom business signs like yard signs, flags, floor decals, magnetic car signs, and more. Simply upload your designs or choose from templates and tailor them to your business using a variety of colors and sizes. Several pricing options are available, so you can choose what works best for you and your budget.

Not sure where to start? Visit officedepot.com/print or a local Office Depot or OfficeMax store near you to learn more.

2. Design Don't have a graphic designer on your team? Choose from thousands of professional and visually appealing design templates from Canva to create customized marketing materials within a few clicks. From flyers announcing special deals and seasonal products to brochures advertising special events, it's simple to create professionally designed materials that stand out and help you connect with your customers.

Best of all, you can design as many options as you'd like, and you only pay for what you print. Visit officedepot.com/ print to get started.

3. Tech support Tech support services can help to simplify your IT, anticipate challenges and needs, and empower you to scale, grow and manage your business. Office Depot offers 24/7 remote tech support subscription plans for total tech peace of mind, along with services for computer repair, in-home and office computer and tech installation and setup, technology protection plans, and more. Never miss a beat or spend copious amounts of time troubleshooting, so you can focus on what you do best.

4. Shredding and Storage Don't let your documents be a liability for you or your customers. Safe document storage helps you preserve the information you need and frees up space, while proper shredding services can help you destroy documents you don't need, plus you can feel good about having them safely recycled. Office Depot offers a variety of options to help businesses securely manage documents to help prevent identity theft, stay compliant with industry standards, and more.

5. Same-Day Services As a small business owner, usually, time is of the essence! That's when same-day services and quick and convenient order fulfillment options can really make a difference. At Office Depot, Same-Day Services are available on full-service solutions in-store and can be purchased online for in-store pickup. This includes printing items such as posters, flyers, and business cards as well as laminating and binding services.

In addition, Same-Day Delivery is available for a wide assortment of eligible office, cleaning, and tech products in select markets. And if you're really in a pinch, Office Depot offers free in-store and curbside pick-up in 20 minutes.

Whether you need business services to save you time or supplies to help you get the job done, you have options to succeed. For more about small business services and products that can keep you balanced for success, visit OfficeDepot.com. And small business owners interested in obtaining discounts on business essentials, including paper, ink, toner, and cleaning and breakroom supplies can learn more about the benefits of becoming an Office Depot® OfficeMax® Business Select member here.

ranscending Black Excellence (TBE), the first and only e-commerce app for Black-owned businesses launched on Juneteeth (June 19), to level the playing field of advertising. Available from the Apple App Store and Google Play, TBE is a one-stop shop for Black-owned businesses to market their services and products. Consumers can access a free nationwide directory of enterprises including start-ups, pop-ups, click-and-order, brick-and-mortar, or brand new. Created

by Black entrepreneur and veteran, Timothy Greene, TBE is the premier platform for Black businesses to merge affordable and accessible advertising.

"During the height of the pandemic, I received several calls from marketing companies promising to increase my visibility for my startup business, but their entry-level prices were way out of my range," says Greene who is the CEO of Unlimited Capital Financing. "This prompted me to want to level the playing field in marketing for Black business owners."

"I said to myself, 'Imagine what it would be like if my business was on an app where people could find me anytime in a variety of ways.'

Then I mapped out how that app should function to get me there and at that point, I knew I had to invest in our community and create TBE for all Black-owned businesses."

Sponsored by Office Depot Source: BPT

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During testing, the most common comments noted the TBE app as "just what was needed," and it was described as "user friendly." It is a bridge to close the gaps Black businesses face as they grow.

A standard listing is $99 per year.

For more information, email tgreene@ tbe-ww.com.

Source: Transcending Black Excellence

August 2022 | 5

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6 | August 2022 BUSINESS

An

Unhappy Workforce

Can Cost Money. How To Turn Things Around By d-mars.com News Provider

A

mid the Great Resignation, the pandemic-era phenomenon of employees leaving their jobs, new research studying employees in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Ireland are shedding light on how employers can retain their staff and keep them happy.

“Unleashing the Human Element at Work: Transforming Workplaces Through Recognition,” a new research report by Gallup and Workhuman, reveals that currently, only about one-third of employees say their employer has a formal recognition program, and 81% of senior leaders say recognition is not a major strategic priority for their organization.

Industry experts define a culture of recognition at its most basic level as one in which gratitude, praise, and appreciation are freely given and regularly received in an authentic and equitable way throughout the organization. The data suggests that not embracing this ethos is a missed opportunity. Indeed, Gallup’s analysis of the study data shows that an organization of 10,000 people with an already engaged workforce can save up to $16.1 million in turnover annually when they make recognition an important part of their culture. What’s more, employees who feel recognized are more likely to be engaged and feel loyal to their organization.

“The data clearly shows that when recognition is genuinely embedded in workplace culture, people feel its full impact -- they feel seen, valued, and motivated to

put in a little extra effort,” says Dr. Meisha-Ann Martin, senior director of People Analytics and Research at Workhuman.

Employee recognition doesn’t just have an impact on work performance though, it also has an insulating effect that can help shield employees from burnout and support their overall wellbeing. More than 70% of employees who have good recognition experiences at work rate their lives more positively overall and are more likely to be “thriving” in their everyday lives compared to those who are not being fully recognized.

But Dr. Martin advises companies to consider how they go about recognizing their employees. The study found that more than half of employees who say the recognition they receive at work is not authentic or equitable are actively looking or watching for new employment opportunities. Further, two in five employees say they are not receiving enough recognition from leaders at their organization -- only a few times a year at most -- when the bare minimum for positive impact is at least a few times a month.

Recognition of employees is not only useful for retention, but it can also assist with recruitment too, say, analysts.

“In today’s competitive talent marketplace, the power of employee referrals cannot be understated. Yet, only 28% of

employees in this study strongly agree they would recommend their organization as a great place to work. Organizations that acknowledge employees through strong cultures of recognition can boost this figure to 68%,” says Ed O`Boyle,

Gallup’s global practice leader.

“When organizations celebrate employees’ successes and contributions, those employees pay it forward and become brand ambassadors.”

To read the full report and learn more about Workhuman, a leading global provider of technology solutions, analytics, expertise, and services to build human-centered workplaces, visit workhuman.com.

“Recognizing employees is a simple way organizations can demonstrate their commitment to their employees and inspire them to feel connected, confident, and cared about, and in today’s climate, it’s no longer a nice-tohave program but rather a business imperative,” says Dr. Martin.

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Source: StatePoint

August 2022 | 7

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8 | August 2022

NFL Partners with Contract with

COMMUNITY

Driven by a strong internal commitment to diversify the NFL’s business partnerships with organizations like CWBA, the League has spent and allocated $125 Million with Black-owned and operated businesses such as Ariel Investments, CityFirst/Broadway Bank, Cover Communications, and Fearless Technology during the last year.

“City First Bank is pleased to have formed a strategic partnership with the National Football League and Contract With Black America,” said City First Bank President & CEO Brian Argrett. “This partnership supports and accelerates each organization’s commitment to ensuring that minority businesses have access to capital and opportunities to fuel their growth. Partnerships like this are critical to driving equitable

Black America to Strengthen Economic Equality By d-mars.com News Provider

T

he National Football League announced today its partnership with Contract with Black America Institute, an economic inclusion-focused initiative led by artist and entrepreneur O’Shea Jackson, also known as Ice Cube. The CWBA and NFL partnership enhances the NFL’s dedication to increasing economic equity and partnerships with Black-owned businesses.

The collaboration focuses on identifying League-wide opportunities in the financial, tech, and production sectors, with a concentration on increasing direct and indirect, spending with national Black businesses to help close America’s racial and economic wealth gap.

“For more than a year, the CWBA Institute has been working closely with the NFL on identifying resources to build stronger, more substantive economic partnerships with the Black community,” said Ice Cube. “Our team at CWBA, including my longtime business partner and entertainment lawyer Jeff Kwatinetz, and advisors Ja’Ron Smith and Chris Pilkerton, are focused on building corporate partnerships with measurable economic growth outcomes for Black communities across the country. We believe this is a giant step in the right direction.”

Photo Source: NNPA

“Our partnership with CWBA is another reminder that partnering with intentional organizations is critical to everything we do at the League,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, pictured on left with artist and entrepreneur O’Shea Jackson, also known as Ice Cube.

economic change within the Black community as well as supporting the growth of City First Bank and other Black-led and Black-owned financial institutions that deploy capital for economic growth and empowerment.”

“Our partnership with CWBA is another reminder that partnering with intentional organizations is critical to everything we do at the League,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “Black businesses play a major role in our country’s economic prosperity. We understand these businesses have not always had the opportunity for exponential growth, so we are pleased to have partners like Ice Cube and his organization, CWBA, in a continued, collective push toward greater economic inclusion.”

Building off of its long-standing Business Connect program, which works to afford minority- and

veteran-owned businesses Super Bowl & Draft opportunities, the NFL looks to continue to expand and diversify its vendors through strategic national partnerships.

Source: National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA)

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August 2022 | 9 COMMUNITY

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10 | August 2022

Sam Mac and Mike T. Present

All White

The

Event Celebrating 22 Years

By d-mars.com News Provider

W

e all have attended parties, but have you had the Sam Ford aka “Sam Mac” and Mike Taylor aka “Mike T.” experience? Known for sophistication and first-class events, this duo has not only set the standard for firstrate events but raised the bar. What they contribute to this industry is more than bringing people together for some good food and music, but there’s an undeniable passion and strategy behind the planning that has kept them successful in this arena for more than 20 years.

As this is National Black Business Month, we celebrate the contributions of Black business owners like Sam Mac and Mike T., understanding that their business partnership is

leaving a legacy and contributing to our community’s and city’s well-being.

You may know Sam Mac as a successful businessman, author, native Houstonian, and proud husband and father, but most importantly, he is a man of God. Attending UH, learning this industry as a DJ, and being one of the first to offer video DJing services ignited and laid a foundation for Sam’s business acumen that helped develop him for where he is today. After founding Sam Mac Entertainment, that umbrella quickly grew, with successful venues and various events hosted

throughout the year which have become staples in Houston. As co-CEO of Sam Mac Entertainment, Sam’s leadership has influenced countless to adopt his passion for charitable causes, enabling him to give back in an incredible way. Sam founded and owns Champions Homes Care, a home health care company with qualified nurses, LVNs, and CNAs who provide quality care for our seniors, a group that has a special place in his heart. In 2018, his efforts and leadership deemed July 21st as Sam Mac Day in Houston.

Also a native Houstonian and devout Christian, Mike T. is a recognizable and respected name in the real estate industry with over 25 years of specializing

in buying, selling, investing, and meeting clients’ property management needs.

Mike launched the Southwest Property Management Company in 2012 and provides real estate services across Greater Houston as part of the RE/MAX Compass brokerage firm. Mike has served for over 35 years with Comcast NBCUniversal and currently serves as the top executive of Business Development for the Keystone Region which encompasses in part the states of Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio, and Maryland — a $3 billion business segment for Comcast NBCUniversal. As founder and owner of Mike T. Productions and chairman and co-CEO of Sam Mac Entertainment, Mike utilizes his executive business insight to bring notable talent and artists to Houston to add value to

“This year marks the 22nd year for th white affair bringing the mature crow together for an unforgettable and upscale experience that is purposeful to provide a token of love and compassion to our brothers and sisters in Uvalde, TX. It’s also an optimal opportunity to network with other business leaders and entrepreneurs. So join us on September 3rd for a good time that allows you to give back.”

—Co-CEO and founder of Sam Mac Entertainment, Sam Ford aka “Sam Mac”

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August 2022 | 11

their top-tier events. This is in line with their mission of providing upscale and classy events for mature audiences while partnering with the local and neighboring communities to support those in need.

There is a purpose behind every party, whether it be recognizing community leaders and Black entrepreneurs and businesses or providing a portion of the event’s proceeds to a social cause.

This year marks 22 years for the “Sam Mac A ll W hite Event,” which is the longest-running event on the Sam Mac Entertainment portfolio.

Hosted on September 3rd, a portion of the proceeds will serve those directly

his all wd

affected by the Robb Elementary School shooting in Uvalde, TX. “September 3rd will be another personalized experience for those in attendance, being a special moment they can remember all while being a part of a greater cause, supporting those impacted by the recent shooting in Uvalde, TX. Yes, people will enjoy themselves with first-class entertainment and ambiance, but this party is bringing the

community together to make a difference through a collective effort,” Sam says.

Renowned and award-winning radio personality Kandi Eastman of Majic 102.1 will be the host for the evening, with some of Houston’s top local talent entertaining attendees. National star power is taking the stage, with Howard Hewett, Gary “Lil G” Jenkins from the R&B group Silk, and Changing Faces. Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner and other notables will be in attendance that night. And in true Sam Mac Entertainment fashion, expect an exclusive lounge area for VIP guests and other special elements to give partygoers a night to remember.

“The partnership between Sam Mac Entertainment and Mike T. Productions has contributed to making

Houston a destination place where people from all over the country are excited to come and see all that our great city has to offer. This event will provide an atmosphere for people to connect through entertainment, networking, and community to make lasting memories with some of those who they love the most,” says Mike.

Don’t miss the Sam Mac All White Event on Saturday, September 3rd at 6 pm in the beautiful Grand Ballroom at the George R. Brown Convention Center. Tickets are available at www.SamMacEnt.com. A portion of the event proceeds will be contributed to The Community Foundation Uvalde Strong Survivors Fund providing direct financial assistance to the survivors of the deceased and those directly affected by the Robb Elementary School shooting in Uvalde, TX.

The partnership between Sam Mac Entertainment and Mike T. Productions has contributed to making Houston a destination place where people from all over the country are excited to come and see all that our great city has to offer. This event will provide an atmosphere for people to connect through entertainment, networking, and community to make lasting memories with some of those who they love the most,” —Co-CEO and Chairman of Sam Mac Entertainment, Mike Taylor aka “Mike T.”

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12 | August 2022 COMMUNITY

Report: Human Rights Violations in Prisons Throughout Southern United States Cause Disparate and

LASTING HARM IN BLACK COMMUNITIES

By Stacy M. Brown

NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

T

he Southern Prisons Coalition, a group of civil and human rights organizations, submitted a new report on Friday to the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination on the devastating consequences of incarceration on Black people throughout the southern United States.

With the long-term goal of eliminating all forms of racial discrimination in the criminal legal system, including the carceral system, the report describes the widespread, disparate harms resulting from the arrests, harsh prison sentences, and incarceration on Black communities.

The report also cites the devastating impacts of solitary confinement, prison labor, the school-to-prison pipeline, and incarceration of parents on Black families.

On August 8, 2022, the UN will review the United States’ compliance with the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination for the first time since 2014.

Among the ongoing stark racial disparities throughout prisons in the southern United States, Black people are five times more likely to be incarcerated in state prisons.

In states like Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Texas, where Black communities comprise 38% of the total population, Black individuals account for as much as 67% of the total incarcerated population.

While incarcerated, Black people are more than eight times more likely to be placed in solitary confinement, and they are 10 times more likely to be held there for exceedingly long periods of time.

By submitting the report to the United Nations, the Southern Prisons Coalition hopes to solicit concrete

recommendations from the UN Committee as well as commitments from the United States delegation about their plans to address systemic issues in the United States prison system, particularly in the South.

According to the report, several states in the United States have also failed to meet several of the UN’s Standard Minimum Rules for the treatment of incarcerated people, including: • Work should help to prepare incarcerated people for their release from prison, including life and job skills; • Safety measures and labor protections for incarcerated workers should be the same as those that cover workers who are not incarcerated; • Incarcerated workers should receive equitable pay, be able to send money home to their families, and have a portion of their wages set aside to be given to them upon release.

“The U.S. has long failed to live up to its international human rights treaty obligations on eliminating racial discrimination, perhaps more so in the area of mass incarceration and prison conditions than in any other context,” said Lisa Borden, Senior Policy Counsel, International Advocacy at the Southern Poverty Law Center.

“We hope the Committee will help to shine a light on these very dark truths and prompt the U.S. to take its obligation to make significant improvements more seriously.”

“The abuses of forced labor are inextricably tied to racial discrimination in our nation,” said Jamila Johnson, Deputy Director at the Promise of Justice Initiative.

“In Louisiana, for instance, people are still sent into the fields to labor by hand in dangerously high heat indexes, for little to no compensation, and with brutal enforcement reminiscent of slavery and the era of ‘convict leasing’.”

“This report reveals the suffering of Black people in southern U.S. prisons, whose stories of marginalization and discrimination echo the racial subjugation of slavery and convict leasing during our country’s most shameful past,” said Antonio L. Ingram II, Assistant Counsel at the Legal Defense Fund.

“Despite widespread knowledge of the longstanding racial inequalities in the criminal legal and carceral systems, the United States continues to allow egregious human rights violations to persist for Black incarcerated people in violation of international law.

This report serves as a sobering reminder of how far we need to go.”

Read the full report at www.naacpldf.org.

Source: National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA)

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d-mars.com August 2022 | 13

FREE

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HEALTH & WELLNESS JOURNAL

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

August 2022

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Inspire, Inform & Educate

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33rd Edition

Aspirin Benefits of Taking

and the Main Reasons People Take It 17

INSIDE

14

How to Work Out Without Excuses

15

Is Your Sleep Apnea Under Control?

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

19

It’s Time to Focus On Whole Person Health

14 | August 2022 HEALTH

How to Work Out Without Excuses By d-mars.com News Provider

I

t’s all-too-common for those embarking on a regular exercise routine to skip a planned workout for one reason or another. Here are some of the most common excuses that people make not to exercise, along with some solutions to overcome these challenges: “I need low-impact exercises.” Many traditional workouts are tough on joints, which over time, can cause overuse injuries or exacerbate existing conditions. To achieve your fitness goals pain-free, consider low-impact exercises such as yoga, swimming, and elliptical machines.

“I don’t have the space to work out at home.” Whether you live in a small apartment or just can’t dedicate too much space to a home gym, there’s good news. Certain manufacturers of exercise equipment have your back and are developing versatile, sleek fitness equipment to address your needs. At less than 23 pounds, the Cubii Total Body+ (available now for pre-order) is a good example of a compact machine offering a low-impact, approachable and achievable workout that targets everything from abs and arms to quads and calves. With a low-impact motion, you can hit eight key muscle groups using one machine. Its elliptical component features 12 resistance levels that can be adjusted from your phone, and its resistance bands range from 2 to 7 pounds, allowing you, to tone, sculpt and strengthen your upper body, no matter what your fitness level is.

“I’m not seeing results.” If you’ve been working out for a little while and haven’t seen immediate results, don’t get

discouraged. Whether your fitness goal centers around weight loss or getting toned, it’s important to remember that little changes add up over time.

“I’m just not motivated.” If keeping the exercise spark alive is difficult, consider turning to tech. New apps that connect to your equipment via Bluetooth, like the Cubii App, can send you reminders to get moving, as well as help you track your goals. They can also help you stay accountable by allowing you to connect with a fitness community and compete with friends, or join live and on-demand classes.

“I don’t have any time.” Between work, family, and other commitments, finding the time to hit the gym

for an hour or more isn’t always possible. But practicing self-care and prioritizing your own health and wellness is essential.

What you may not realize is that a high-quality workout doesn’t need to happen in a specific place or require a lot of time. In fact, some forms of exercise can occur while you’re working or watching TV. What’s more, even a short burst of activity is very beneficial to getting you strong, boosting your metabolism and energy, and improving your mood.

That’s where a great versatile piece of equipment for the home or office can come into play.

For example, unlike a traditional standalone piece of fitness equipment, the Cubii Total Body+ is a 2-in-1 system that combines cardio with upper body strength training for a full-body workout you can do anytime, anywhere. To learn more about how to get active today, visit cubii.com.

Creating a new exercise habit can be an uphill struggle, especially if you are short on time, space or motivation.

Luckily, new tools are emerging that can help you work out without excuses.

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Source: StatePoint

August 2022 | 15 HEALTH

Is Your Sleep Apnea Under Control?

By d-mars.com News Provider

H

igh-quality sleep is fundamental to your health and happiness. However, for the 10-30% of U.S. adults living with sleep apnea, a good night’s rest is not guaranteed.

Obstructive sleep apnea is a respiratory condition where airways narrow during sleep, causing short periods when you’re not breathing. Incredibly common, it’s estimated that there are millions of Americans with undiagnosed and untreated sleep apnea. Uncontrolled sleep apnea is associated with a number of challenging symptoms, including Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS). This symptom, which can linger even after one begins being treated for sleep apnea, is often described as feeling excessively drowsy. If you experience EDS, you might even fall asleep when you shouldn’t. For example, sleepiness at work or while you’re watching kids, along with drowsy driving, could put you and others at an increased risk of accidents and injury.

Not everyone being treated for sleep apnea experiences complete symptom relief. This is why the American Lung Association, with support from Jazz Pharmaceuticals, is encouraging the public to recognize their own or a loved one’s sleep challenges.

“The first step to better sleep is to share your unresolved symptoms with your healthcare provider. If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea after participating in a sleep study, your doctor will work with you to manage the condition,” says Dr. Atul Malhotra, a board-certified pulmonologist, intensivist, and research chief of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine at UC San Diego.

Dr. Malhotra recommends setting up a follow-up appointment within three months after you begin treatment -- or sooner if problems arise, and then on an annual basis after that.

“Unfortunately, some patients continue to experience lingering symptoms,” says Dr. Malhotra. “It’s important to address these concerns with your doctor.”

You’ll know if your treatment is working based on how you’re feeling. Are you less sleepy during the day? Do you have higher energy levels? Does your bed partner notice less snoring, gasping, or sleep disruptions? To help your doctor understand what you’re experiencing at your appointment, it’s important to distinguish fatigue, which is a lack of energy, from sleepiness, which is an inability to stay awake.

For more information about sleep apnea and EDS visit lung.org.

Everyone deserves the benefits of high-quality sleep. If you have difficulty getting a good night’s rest, be sure to talk to your doctor about your symptoms right away.

Source: StatePoint

Do not leave kids or pets in a

CLOSED VEHICLE

for any amount of time! Cars can become an oven in just 10 minutes.

ALWAYS • Park safely • Look in your back seat • Lock up

To report kids or pets in hot cars, CALL 911

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16 | August 2022 HEALTH

After Two Years, It’s Time to Resume Health Screenings and Procedures,

Anesthesiologists Advise

are the only drugs that will relieve post-surgical pain. In fact, there are many pain management alternatives that don't carry the same risk of misuse, including ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Your anesthesiologist will work with you to develop a safe and effective plan to help you manage your pain.

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he pandemic caused massive disruptions in health care, from cancellation of elective surgeries to patients putting off critical screenings and procedures, including colonoscopies, mammograms, knee or hip replacement surgeries, and even in some cases more urgent heart procedures. As a consequence, many preventable health problems may show an alarming increase in the near future. Anesthesiologists who provide anesthesia or sedation for many of these procedures urge patients to get back on track and schedule their test, screening, or surgery as soon as possible, especially because some hospitals and health systems are experiencing a backlog.

Nearly one in four people experienced a disruption to their plans to have a procedure or test during the past year. Of those, 16% said they are planning to reschedule, but haven't yet, and 10% aren't planning to reschedule at all, according to the National Poll on Healthy Aging.

Nearly 10 million cancer screenings were missed during the pandemic, according to cancer researchers.

"With safety measures in place and COVID-19 numbers decreasing, it is vital for everyone to resume their lifesaving and life-changing screenings and procedures," said Randall M. Clark, M.D., FASA, president of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA). "Your health and well-being may depend on it."

If you are scheduling a long-delayed screening or procedure that requires anesthesia or sedation, ASA recommends seven ways to ensure you are prepared and as healthy as possible.

Practicehealthy healthybehaviors behaviors Practice Adjusting your diet to include healthier choices in the weeks leading up to your surgery or procedure can help you become stronger and recover quicker. Exercise can also help reduce complications and hospital stays, so if you are active, keep it up, and if not, consider working with your doctor to increase activity levels in the weeks before surgery. Losing weight can help too, as excess weight can make it more challenging to administer anesthesia safely.

Stop Stopsmoking smoking Smoking increases the risk of anesthesia-related problems such as wound infections, pneumonia, and heart attacks. Quit smoking as soon as possible before the procedure - preferably a week or more before - and for as long as possible afterward. Quitting even the day before surgery helps.

Connect Connectwith withyour youranesthesia anesthesiacare careteam team Be sure your anesthesia care is led by an anesthesiologist, a medical doctor who has 12-14 years of education and clinical training to deliver safe, high-quality care.

Whether you have an appointment with your anesthesiologist in advance of your procedure or meet them

immediately before, be sure to share details about your overall health, medications you are taking, use of recreational drugs (including marijuana) and alcohol, your previous experience with anesthesia, your fears and any questions you have. If you have concerns, reach out to schedule a call or meeting with the anesthesiologist in advance.

Advance preparation can help ensure you are ready for a procedure, but it's important to take that first step by scheduling your important test or surgery without delay. Download ASA's "The Path to Safe Surgery" fact sheet for more information.

Understand UnderstandCOVID-19 COVID-19testing testing You likely will be tested for COVID-19 a day or two before your surgery. If you have had COVID-19 recently, your surgery may be delayed for your own safety. Unvaccinated patients may need to wait seven weeks after a COVID-19 infection before having a procedure, depending on the severity of symptoms.

Knowwhat what- -and andwhen when- -to eat and Know to eat and drink drink When your surgery is planned, your anesthesia care team will let you know when to stop eating or drinking prior to the procedure. The answer may vary depending on factors such as the type of anesthesia you are having and the time of day your procedure is scheduled. In many cases, you will be told to stop eating eight hours before the surgery, but you may be able to drink clear fluids such as coffee, water, or pulp-free juice up to two hours before.

Don't Don’tassume assumeyou youshould shouldstop your stopmedications your medications In most cases, you should continue taking your medications before the procedure because they are important to your health. There are exceptions, so be sure your surgeon and anesthesiologist know which medications - both prescription and over-the-counter - you are taking, as well as any vitamins and supplements, so they can direct you.

Learnabout aboutyour yourpain pain Learn management options management options Many people assume opioids

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August 2022 | 17

Aspirin HEALTH

Benefits of Taking

and the Main Reasons People Take It By d-mars.com

News Provider

T

here is no more familiar item in your medicine cabinet than a bottle of aspirin.

Aspirin has been sold for over a century as an over-the-counter medication and millions of people take it. Aspirin is used to help treat pain associated with headaches and arthritis, and for fever reduction.

People also take low-dose aspirin daily as part of their doctor-recommended plan following a heart attack or clot-related stroke for secondary prevention to prevent anothe r

heart attack or clot-related stroke. There are about 40 million vascular patients who may be on an aspirin therapy plan as advised by their doctor.

"Aspirin is an important and trusted medication with benefits for a number of different purposes," said Mayme Lou Roettig, RN, executive medical director, PLx Pharma Inc. "It can also have side effects and needs to be tailored to individual patient benefit versus risk profile. Although aspirin is sold over the counter, doctors may recommend using aspirin for secondary prevention. Your medical condition is unique to you, and your doctor can help determine what you need, and what to be careful about."

Benefits of of taking taking aspirin aspirin Benefits Here are the primary reasons people take aspirin.

Pain relief: Aspirin is a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) effective for the temporary relief of minor aches and pains and to reduce fevers.

Aspirin is just one of several NSAIDs available. It's always a good idea to ask your healthcare provider which specific NSAID(s) would be most beneficial to you given the type of pain you're experiencing, and your medical history.

Heart attack: According to the American Heart Association, about 720,000 people in the U.S. have their first heart attack every year and an additional 335,000 will have a recurrent heart attack or a secondary event.

In the U.S. a heart attack occurs every 40 seconds.

Heart attacks occur when the blood flow to the heart is blocked by a blood clot. A blocked artery prevents oxygen-rich blood from reaching a vital section of the heart. If the blood flow is completely disrupted, that part of the heart can die. While lifestyle changes, such as improving your diet and increasing exercise, can help prevent a heart attack, aspirin can reduce the risk of another heart attack by 31% by making blood platelets less likely to stick together in a clot.

Stroke: The American Heart Association also reports that about 610,000 people experience a new stroke in the U.S. and 185,000 have a recurrent or secondary event.

Stroke is the leading cause of serious longterm disability. A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is diminished or disrupted preventing brain tissue from getting needed oxygen and nutrients. Some brain cells begin to die, which can lead to loss of functions controlled by that part of the brain, such as walking or talking. Like a heart attack, lifestyle changes help reduce the chances of having a stroke, and aspirin is clinically shown to help lower the risk of another clot-related stroke.

are taking physician-advised aspirin therapy stop taking it due to gastrointestinal (GI) issues, which is the most common side effect. This includes rare gastric ulcers or gastric bleeding as well as more common dyspepsia also known as indigestion or upset stomach discomfort.

If you were recommended aspirin by your physician to prevent another heart attack or stroke and experience side effects such as stomach discomfort or gastrointestinal issues, you should contact your doctor right away. Roettig suggests speaking to your doctor if there are alternatives that may help avoid or minimize potential side effects.

Enteric EntericCoated CoatedAspirin Aspirin Aspirin has been around for more than 100 years.

Enteric-coated aspirin, the most commonly used formulation, was developed more than 50 years ago with the intention of preventing aspirin from dissolving in the stomach. The enteric-coated formulation was designed to help protect the stomach lining from irritation, especially for those who take aspirin on a regular basis.

However, studies have not definitively demonstrated that enteric-coated aspirin protects the stomach from irritation. According to the FDA class Aspirin Professional Labeling, enteric-coated aspirin products are erratically absorbed from the GI tract.

Some studies have found that patients may not get the full effect of aspirin from a dose. This is an important consideration for patients who are trying to prevent another heart attack or clot-related stroke.

AAnovel noveldelivery deliverysystem systemfor foraspirin aspirin There is a unique over-the-counter aspirin recently approved by the FDA available on shelves nationally - Vazalore®.

Vazalore is a liquid-filled aspirin capsule, available in 81 mg and 325 mg doses, which delivers aspirin differently from plain and enteric-coated aspirin products.

The special complex inside the Vazalore capsule and its delivery system allows for pH-dependent targeted release of aspirin, limiting its direct contact with the stomach.

Vazalore delivers fast, reliable absorption for pain relief plus the life-saving benefits of aspirin to help prevent another heart attack or clot-related stroke.

Visit www.vazalore.com to learn more about aspirin and its benefits.

Commonside sideeffects effectsofofaspirin aspirin Common Patients on aspirin therapy regardless of the dosage form may experience side effects and stop taking it. In fact, some patients who

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18 | August 2022 HEALTH

Men Under the Influence of Women

Are More Likely to Take Better Care of Their Health By d-mars.com News Provider

en are notorious for avoiding the doctor and ignoring warning signs when it comes to their health. New research confirms this isn't just a myth with 2 in 5 men saying they've put off seeing a doctor until their symptoms were urgent and 1 in 3 men avoiding the doctor altogether out of fear of finding something wrong.

Men also are more likely to smoke, drink and take more risks. Yet a surprising 84% of men rate their health as "excellent" or "good" in a Men's Health Survey conducted by MDVIP and Ipsos, suggesting that they mistakenly believe they're healthier than they really are.

"Men are typically on the defensive, waiting for an emergency to happen before seeking medical care - when it's sometimes too late," said Dr. Andrea Klemes, chief medical officer at MDVIP. "What they need is to play better offense."

M

Thekey keytotoimproving improvingmen's men’s The health health What, or rather who is the key to helping men be more proactive about their health? Women. An impressive 4 in 5 men say their spouse/partner plays an important role in their health and nearly half say they have gone to see a doctor because their spouse/partner insisted on it.

Whether you're a man who wants to take steps to improve your health, or you have an important man in your life who needs encouragement, here are tips to get the journey started.

Here's Here’show howwomen womencan canhelp help men menget geton ontrack track Women make 80% of the health care decisions for their households. If you are a woman, know that you have a lot of influence and that your partner really listens to you. Make sure you bring up any observations or concerns you have about his health, even if it may feel difficult or uncomfortable at first. It could be a matter of life and death.

Hereare arethings thingsyou youcan cando: do: Here * Partner with him to make healthier choices such as going for daily walks, cooking nutritious meals, and stocking the pantry with healthier snacks.

* Watch for unusual symptoms or changes that might indicate a serious issue, such as a mysterious mole on his back, unexplained pain, or fatigue. * Urge him to see his primary care doctor when something's amiss, or help him find a physician if he doesn't already have one.

MDVIP's Find a Doctor tool can help you locate doctors in your area who limit their practice size, allowing them to spend more time with patients compared to traditional practices.

Here’show howmen mencan can Here's turbochargetheir theirown ownhealth health turbocharge Just as you do regular maintenance on your car to keep it running well, like oil changes and tire rotations, here's what you need to do to minimize your own health issues down the road: * See your primary care physician for regular preventive care - Schedule an annual check-up where you can ask questions and discuss any health concerns you may have. Make sure you're up to date on routine lab work and important screenings based on your age and medical history. * Know your numbers - Learn about key health indicators including your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar levels, and body mass index (BMI). All this information can help you understand your risk for heart disease, diabetes, and other serious conditions - and help catch problems in the early stages when they are much more treatable. * Take the Men's Health IQ Quiz to find out what you know - and learn what you don't know - about important factors relating to your health and wellness.

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Helping men become more proactive about their health can empower them, and their significant others, to enjoy better wellness and quality of life for years to come. And having women in their corner to support them may be just the prescription men need.

Learn more about men's health and find helpful resources at MDVIP. com/MensHealth.

Source: BPT

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August 2022 | 19 HEALTH

It’s Time to Focus On Whole Person Health By d-mars.com News Provider

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he COVID-19 pandemic has shined much-needed light on "whole person health" by highlighting the correlation between behavioral health and overall wellness. Many people with behavioral health challenges experienced worsening symptoms throughout the pandemic, while others struggled with conditions for the first time and didn't know where to turn.

Understanding whole person health - and where to find resources that can help you support both your mental and physical health - is key to protecting and improving your overall well-being.

Whole person health is the recognition that our mental and physical health are interconnected and that an illness rarely affects a single body part or system. When you consider that nearly one in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness, and six in 10 adults in the U.S. have a chronic disease, it's easy to consider how one might impact the other.

Benefitsofofwhole wholeperson personhealth health Benefits andhow howtototake takeaction action and According to Dr. Rhonda Randall, D.O., Chief Medical Off icer at

UnitedHealthcare, implementing integrated health care approaches has positive outcomes for patients, physicians, and caregivers. By exploring health behaviors (like smoking, physical activity, and eating habits), the community and environment where we live and work, genetics, behaviors, and socio-economic influences on our health, physicians and patients create a comprehensive picture of the patient's goals and create a comprehensive plan of care.

Here are three key ways this approach can help you, or someone you love - and how to take action.

1. Improve one area, improve the rest.

Research shows that improving one area of a person's physical, emotional and mental health can benefit the others. For example, we have long known that gut health is directly linked to mental health, but whole health argues these connections run throughout the entire body.

Take action: Take a moment to reflect on your health - what are you missing, and what are your goals? Make a list, then talk about it with your care team. Together,

you can make a plan to address the changes you'd like to make.

2. Make mental health checks part of your regular health routine.

A s we age, ch ron ic , or ongoing, conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, chronic pain, and others, tend to surface more frequently, but research suggests mentally healthy adults reported the fewest chronic diseases of all ages. By starting to care for your mental and behavioral health as soon as possible, patients can help safeguard the body for its future.

Take action: Just as we make yearly visits to our primary care physicians, it's essential to prioritize regular mental health maintenance checks, whether with your physician, a specialist, or free self-assessment tools. It's no secret that, for many, the pandemic has intensified and worsened mental health issues. The silver lining? Broad recognition has reduced the stigma and more than ever, virtual tools are available to help maintain treatment plans, improve access and remove cost

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barriers.

3. Prioritize preventive care to reduce health care costs. Chronic conditions, frequent trips to specialists, and prescriptions are key drivers behind expensive out-ofpocket healthcare costs. By investing in whole health - examining diet, exercise, and mental health, in conjunction with regular primary care visits - you can improve your health as well as your long-term financial health.

Take action: As you build your health team, look for professionals who subscribe to the whole health model and will proactively seek to coordinate care with other providers supporting your physical and mental health. When physician teams communicate effectively, patients become centered in their care.

Takingcharge chargeofofyour yourwhole whole Taking health health More and more, patients can be the drivers of their own health care journeys.

Minor changes such as investing in selfcare, improving lifestyle choices, and early behavioral intervention if needed are key steps in ensuring overall wellness.

For more health and wellness information, visit UHC.com.

Source: BPT

20 | August 2022

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August 2022 | 21

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22 | August 2022 EDUCATION & CAREER

Study: Job

Displacement

Affects Blacks, Women, and Non-Degreed Individuals Most

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

A

new study focusing on job displacements between 1989 and 2019 found that, on average, Black workers are 67 percent more likely to be displaced than their white peers.

Research by the nonprofit Brookings Institution further revealed that workers without a bachelor’s degree are also 67 percent more likely to be displaced than those with a bachelor’s degree.

Additionally, workers whose parents are in the bottom half of the income distribution are 27 percent more likely to be displaced than those with parents in the top half.

Titled Job Displacement in the United States by Race, Education, and Parental Income, the study noted that using an event study fixed effects model, researchers measured the impact of a given displacement on annual earnings by worker group.

They discovered similarly large and persistent adverse effects on earnings across all demographic and socioeconomic groups.

The study authors estimated a 57 percent decline in earnings following a displacement.

They also estimated a 25 percent decline in the 10th year after a displacement.

During the first months of the COVID-19 recession, an estimated 22 million Americans lost their jobs – roughly 13 percent of the U.S. workforce.

The initial impact on employment was largest for women, Black workers, Latino workers, and less-educated workers.

“This negative employment shock occurred against a backdrop of long-term trends of declining intergenerational economic mobility and high-income inequality across race and education levels,” the researchers explained.

The study examined how job displacements affect workers by race, education level, and parental income in the United States.

“An extensive literature in economics shows that workers experience large and persistent earnings losses following a job displacement,” Brookings researchers determined.

“Given the millions of workers displaced during the COVID-19 recession and the high-income inequality in the United States, it is important to understand the role that job displacement may play in driving inequalities across demographic and socioeconomic groups.”

The authors continued: “In this [study], we use the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID) to measure the frequency and earnings impact of job displacements by race, education, and parental income level.”

Meanwhile, the authors found that workers whose parents are in the bottom quintile of the income distribution are 27 percent more likely to be displaced than those with parents in the top income quintile.

The study concluded that Black workers, less-educated workers, and those with low-income parents are more likely to be displaced yearly.

But once they are displaced, do these workers experience worse outcomes than their white, more educated, and high-income-parent peers who also share a displacement?

“In the year following a displacement, workers without a bachelor’s degree experience a roughly 600-hour decrease in annual hours worked, while those with a bachelor’s degree see a 1,000-hour decline,” the researchers wrote.

“When we look at Black and white workers separately, we find nearly identical effects on earnings across the five years leading up to a displacement and the ten that follow.

However, while the effects are similar for both race groups, large differences in earnings levels still exist across all relative years.

“In the year after a displacement, non-displaced white workers earn roughly $11,500 more than their Black peers, on average.”

Researchers said the report establishes three crucial facts about job displacements in the United States over the last 30 years.

First, as other studies have shown, the adverse effects of job displacement on earnings, hourly wages, and annual hours worked are significant and persistent.

Also, certain workers experience much higher displacement rates than others in any given year.

Namely, Black workers, those without a bachelor’s

degree, and those with low-income parents are much more likely to experience a displacement any given year than their white, degree-holding, and high-income-parent peers.

Finally, the negative effect of job displacement on earnings is relatively consistent across socioeconomic groups.

“While displaced workers with bachelor’s degrees seem to experience less severe earnings losses in the year immediately following a displacement, they also experience larger lingering effects than their peers without degrees,” the researchers asserted.

“However, large standard errors make it difficult to make strong claims regarding differences by socioeconomic status. It is important to remember that, despite the similar impact of job displacement across demographic and socioeconomic groups, there remain large gaps in average annual earnings across these groups – both before and after displacement events.”

They noted further that a critical implication of their findings is that job displacements may play a role in promoting racial, educational, and intergenerational inequality.

“Even though we do not find differences in the earnings effects of any given displacement across groups, we do find that certain groups experience displacements much more frequently,” the researchers insisted.

“Black workers, those without bachelor’s degrees, and those with low-income parents all have lower average earnings than their peers before experiencing job displacements, so the higher-frequency displacements for these groups likely exacerbate existing income differences.

“Focusing exclusively on earnings outcomes, our [study] does not fully capture the potential impact of being displaced. The job displacement literature has found that displacements affect many outcomes besides earnings, such as health and homeownership.”

Read the complete study at www.brookings.edu.

Source: National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA)

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August 2022 | 23

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24 | August 2022 EDUCATION & CAREER

HBCU News The Propel Center and the Walt Disney Company Announce a New Collaboration Designed to Curate the Next Cohort of Storytellers and Innovators at HBCUs By d-mars.com News Provider

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he Propel Center, a first-of-itskind ideation hub for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), recently announced an exciting new collaboration with The Walt Disney Company designed to prepare promising young innovators for careers in the arts, media, entertainment, and hospitality industries.

Revealed at the 2022 HBCU Philanthropy Symposium in D.C., the announcement detailed how Propel and Disney will work together to provide meaningful support, mentors, internships, and a guest speakers series as part of the expansive opportunities being made available to the future storytellers and innovators from underrepresented communities.

Through this collaboration, Disney will also work with HBCU faculty and other industry leaders to co-develop curriculum that will position students for successful recruitment into these desired professions.

The initial curriculum will focus on the areas of technology and hospitality where Disney has a significant number of entry-level career opportunities. The hope is to create a bridge between the academic training students receive and the job opportunities available to them in the industry.

Photo Credit: Disney

Photo Caption: The Walt Disney Company announces a collaboration with the Propel Center in support of the next generation of diverse storytellers and innovators. Pictured are the Disney and Propel team, with Drum Major Mickey Mouse.

"The launch of this new collaboration with The Walt Disney Company positions the Propel Center to continue its important work of providing unprecedented opportunities and access to HBCUs," said Anthony Oni, Education Farm's board chairman and the founder of Ed Farm and Propel. "This collaboration is much more than an important moment. It's also an opportunity to invest in HBCUs in ways that advance student learning and opportunities; while participating in the HBCU tradition of developing transformative leaders."

"At Disney, we know that technology and hospitality play a huge role in telling great stories and creating seamless consumer experiences. We want to give HBCU students the opportunity to build the skills necessary in these areas to help them succeed in their careers," said Jennifer Cohen, executive vice president, Corporate Social Responsibility, The Walt Disney Company. "With the help of Propel's network and expertise, we hope to reach more students and empower them with the experience and confidence to push storytelling forward."

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Synonymous with pushing forward, "The Propel Center is a bold and transformational initiative impacting the entire HBCU ecosystem," said Waymond Jackson, CEO of Education Farm.

"Through cutting-edge curriculum, innovative technology, trending thought leadership, and other opportunities such as the ones this exciting new Disney collaboration presents, Propel aims to elevate how HBCU scholars see and experience the world. By equipping them with the resources, training, and tools they need to become leaders who advance equity, transform the talent pipeline, and tell their stories, we are ensuring that they are prepared to fill and create the jobs of the future."

This collaboration with Propel is part of the Disney Future Storytellers initiative. Through social investments and collaborations such as these, Disney is increasing access to careers in storytelling and innovation for those who have been historically underrepresented. From arts and STEM programs for school-age children to scholarships, storytelling, and technical skills-building programs for teens and young adults, Disney is helping today's youth to pursue their dreams, build their talents and skills, and become who they imagine they can be.

Source: PropelCenter.org

August 2022 | 25

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26 | August 2022 REAL ESTATE

Smart Homes Make Life Easier, but Are They Keeping You Safe?

By d-mars.com News Provider

C

omes in the United States continue to get smarter as many people frequently use voice assistants, smart doorbells, smart appliances, and more to make life easier. Now, as the smart home evolution continues, homeowners want more than just convenience - they want smart devices that help keep them safe, too.

The ability to protect your home and your family will always be a priority. In addition to everyone staying safe and healthy, you want your home to remain strong and secure. Smart devices can now help with this as they are working to detect threats and provide alerts of fire, carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, air quality concerns, water pipe freezes, leaks, and more.

A Harris Poll survey conducted on behalf of Kidde, the #1 most installed fire safety brand in North America, found that today people are more connected than ever, with 83% of Americans having at least one smart device in their home and three in five smart device owners relying on those devices to keep their families and them safe. These technologies grant homeowners and renters confidence with 69% having peace of mind that those devices will alert them in real-time when an issue arises.

One issue that is a top concern is fire protection. Every 23 seconds, a fire department in the U.S. responds to a fire somewhere in the nation, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Unfortunately, three out

of five home fire deaths result from fires in properties without working smoke alarms.

CO poisoning is another common safety concern as it's a potentially deadly gas with no smell. Every year, at least 430 people die in the U.S. from accidental CO poisoning and approximately 50,000 people in the U.S. visit the emergency department annually due to accidental CO poisoning, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Smart home devices and alarms can help detect threats and provide you and your family alerts to common safety concerns such as smoke and CO, as well as additional threats such as water leaks, frozen pipes, and indoor air quality issues. Comprehensive technology is transforming how these issues are monitored and how you are alerted, giving you elevated peace of mind.

For example, the new Kidde HomeSafe™ suite of products includes a Smoke + CO Alarm with Indoor Air Quality Monitor. This alarm detects smoke, CO, adverse temperature, humidity levels, and total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs), which include harmful particles in the air that can lead to health issues. Another option is the Water Leak + Freeze Detector which helps prevent frozen pipes and alert property owners to water leaks that can lead to mold, mildew, and compromised property integrity, not to mention potentially extensive repair costs. These Wi-Fi-enabled devices include smart features that can be connected to consumers' Kidde app, which allows for real-time alerts to be sent directly to a smartphone, even if you're not home. Additionally, the HomeSafe products are compatible with some of the most popular voice assistants, offering the use of voice commands to check alarm status and connection.

Mobile alerts also allow you to notify your emergency contact of a potential threat (911, friends, and family), and you can silence false alarms when you are home, like when you accidentally burn your toast. Kidde's HomeSafe products provide greater control and more confidence, right at your fingertips.

In today's world, having a smart home should mean keeping your family healthy and safe. It's about having the technology and features you need to give you the confidence to protect the people, places, and things that matter the most.

Source: BPT

REAL ESTATE

Tips to Attract Buyers When Selling Your Home By d-mars.com News Provider

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reparing your home for sale may start with ideas for staging the house or spackling and painting over nail holes, however, it also requires a considerable amount of planning and organization. Before opening your home to tours, either virtual or in person, be aware of what buyers might notice.

"Getting your home ready for sale may seem like an overwhelming task, but it's important to make your home as attractive as possible," said Bonnie Lee, vice president of property claims at Mercury Insurance. "Not only does it give a favorable first impression, but it also shows that the home was well maintained and cared for. Most buyers expect to tour and eventually purchase a clean, well-cared for home."

Walk through each room of your home and take note of what needs to be cleaned, repaired or replaced.

Eliminate Eliminateclutter clutter For many homeowners, the beginning of the home selling process is the chance to clear out any unwanted items. Take this time to throw away, donate or sell items that are no longer purposeful. Remember that potential buyers are likely to open closet doors and built-in cabinet drawers to determine the amount of storage space available, meaning you won't be able to simply store unwanted items in a closet.

Buyers want to visualize themselves and their belongings within the living space so depersonalize and remove any large visual distractions such as large, distinct artwork or family photos.

Bulkier items such as furniture can change the perceived size of a room. Make sure buyers are able to walk around living spaces without bumping into furniture. If you don't plan to take certain large items with you, check if your local municipality will pick them up.

Deep Deepclean cleanyour yourhome home Before scheduling tours of your home, do a deep clean, especially in areas like the kitchen and bathrooms. Home buyers are savvy and can detect when candles or air fresheners are being used to mask unpleasant scents of a home.

"A home that hasn't been cleaned can be perceived as needing a lot of work or has underlying serious problems like water or structural damage," Lee said.

"Keeping your home clean will boost that

ever-important first impression and maximize the selling cost."

Makesmall smallrepairs repairs Make Wear and tear from everyday living is normal. However, fixing these small repairs before listing your home might be a slight inconvenience for you, but might be seen as part of a larger, underlying issue to a potential buyer. Thoroughly go through each room of your home and touch up any dings on baseboards or doors. Make any minor repairs like filling in and repainting any holes left in the walls from hanging items. Check for leaking faucets or running toilets and replace any worn or damaged caulking around sinks, showers, bathtubs or windows.

Curb Curbappeal appeal Your home's exterior is the first thing buyers see as they approach the house.

Trim any trees or shrubs outside of your property, especially along walkways, for a well-manicured look. Inspect any trees around your home to make sure they aren't

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scraping shingles off of your roof or blocking gutters. Keep walkways and driveways free of clutter such as gardening tools or children's toys. Replace or repair any damaged screens or windows and make sure that any house numbers are visible.

"A well maintained outdoor area that has been properly cared for is not only aesthetically pleasing but can also be a reflection of how well the home was cared for overall," Lee said.

GetaaCLUE CLUE Get A Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange (CLUE) report provides a detailed history of any insurance claims that may have been filed on the house within the last seven years. While this report is extremely useful to buyers, it can be equally important to sellers. "Sellers whose homes have had no insurance claims within the last seven years can use a CLUE report as a selling tool. It gives potential buyers the assurance that they are not buying a home with a history of problems and increase a seller's chance of selling their home quickly," Lee said.

Under the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act, you can request a copy of your CLUE report from LexisNexis by calling 1-866-3128076 or by visiting consumer.risk. lexisnexis.com.

Source: BPT

August 2022 | 27

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

28 | August 2022 REAL ESTATE

Compare the Benefits of a New to an Existing Home

By Marla Lewis President of the Houston Black Real Estate Association

T

here are pros and cons to a new-construction home or existing home, so the decision may not be that easy as you consider a home purchase. No matter which way you go, you’ll probably end up making tradeoffs.

In the end, choose the type of home that makes the most sense for you, your lifestyle, and your upcoming plans.

From an investment standpoint, it is wise to think about the future when buying. After all, you will be the seller one day and will no doubt want to get the largest possible return on your investment.

What if, for example, a home is one of the first in a new subdivision. As other houses are still being built, short-term resale of a two-year-old house can be difficult. Given two similar choices in the same neighborhood, most buyers opt for a brand new house as opposed to one that’s been lived in. Additionally, builder incentives can make the new home down the street more attractive to buyers. This typically changes as the neighborhood matures and the builders clear out.

It’s not all about the investment, though. You must live in this home.

Central air, large pantries, walk-in closets, multi-car garages, more and bigger bathrooms, and other contemporary amenities are more common in newer homes. There are not many 40-year-old homes featuring a master suite with a spa and two walk-in closets.

New homes are also built with infrastructure tailored to modern life – like having more electrical outlets or being pre-wired for security or the Internet.

Additionally, there are stricter building codes and significant advances in construction materials and techniques.

These improvements result in safer and more energy-efficient homes.

Also, the builder may offer customization options, like color schemes, flooring, kitchen cabinets, or appliances, that allow you a degree of personalization. Existing homes were built and designed to someone else’s standard and taste, which is bound to be different from yours.

On the flip side, many older homes have a charm from the period during which they were built. Some sit on larger parcels of land than the lots common in most new subdivisions.

You also may find an existing home that has been remodeled in a way that suits your needs perfectly.

Maintenance Maintenance Home maintenance comes with homeownership. There is no house that is maintenance- or defect-free – even brand new homes. In fact, it’s not uncommon to find at least one construction defect that must be addressed in a brand new house. So, if you do opt for a new home, make sure you understand the warranty and the process for identifying and fixing problems. As with purchasing an existing home, buyers should have a new home inspected by a licensed third-party inspector before closing.

The neighborhood should be a significant part of your decision. Think about what you value – school district, proximity to your workplace, and day-to-day convenience are common concerns for most people, but your list may vary.

You’ll find that many residential builders acquire large tracts of land (usually far away from downtown areas) and start a subdivision from scratch. It’s more cost-effective to lay infrastructure and build if there are no obstacles. So, if you happen to be partial to large trees lining the streets, an older neighborhood may be more your style.

Some new communities also initially lack services like nearby grocery stores, shopping, or other things you take for granted in established areas.

Moving Movinginin If you purchase a home before completion, builder delays or other holdups could prevent you from moving in on schedule. This may end up being no big deal, but if the timing’s wrong, you may have to find a temporary solution while the setbacks are resolved. This may mean delaying closing on the sale of your current home, finding a place to rent, staying with friends or family, or placing your belongings in storage. These can be particularly challenging during COVID times.

When deciding between a newly built home and an existing home, choose based on your family’s needs. A Realtor can help you sift through the options. For more information or to find a Realtor, visit HAR. com. And for information about the Houston Black Real Estate Association, please visit HBREAHouston.org.

—distributed and provided by the Houston Association of Realtors

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August 2022 | 29

A Key Cause of Data Loss And How to Protect Yourself By d-mars.com News Provider

C

omputer crashes. Cyber attacks. Viruses. Theft.

Power outages. There are so many ways you can lose the precious data stored on your computer.

But the greatest threat of all? You. "Human error is one of the main causes of data loss," says Brian Pridgeon, Director of Product Marketing, Western Digital. "It could be as simple as spilling coffee on your laptop or accidentally deleting a critical file. Seemingly small incidents can lead to a massive loss of important files, for businesses, content creators, and general consumers alike."

It's natural to make mistakes. But when it comes to human error, there are a few ways to protect yourself against the loss of important data.

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TECHNOLOGY

Practicegood goodcyber cyberhygiene hygiene 2.2.Practice

Makedata databackup backupaahabit habit 1.1.Make Backing up your precious and vital files is crucial. As a rule of thumb, put protections in place for anything that would be difficult or impossible to reproduce or replace, or anything where a loss would evoke negative, frustrating, or stressful emotions. For individuals, this might include address books, pictures, videos, music files, emails, documents, and financial records. For businesses, data backups become a bit more technical and include backing up customer databases, configuration files, operating systems, accounting records, operational details, and inventory supply levels. Keeping your files backed up and safe offers peace of mind in the event of a system breakdown.

One way to help ensure the protection of your files is a storage drive or device, such as the My PassportTM drive or My BookTM desktop storage from Western Digital's WD® brand. The My Passport HDD from WD is a trusted drive that provides portable storage that fits in the palm of your hand. It can help you store photos, videos, music as well as documents. The My Book device from WD allows you to store even more data and is equipped with backup software for Windows® and is compatible with Time Machine on macOS. It also features built-in hardware encryption with password protection to help keep your files private and safe.

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It's all too easy to ignore those pesky pop-ups telling you it's time for an update, but failing to do so can be another human error that causes data loss. Regular software updates allow your system to access the latest security features - so you're protected from viruses and malware.

Another good cyber hygiene habit is regularly changing your passwords. This can help you stay safe online as well as protect the private or important information stored in your various accounts. If needed, mark your calendar or set a reminder on your phone to make sure you remember to practice these safety habits.

Carefuldata dataorganization organization 3.3.Careful How you handle your files can help avoid simple errors such as accidental deletion. For example, if your desktop is a mess of files and you're trying to clear space, you have a greater chance of deleting something without realizing its importance. Take some time to set up an organization system for your files, photos, and videos - and stick to it.

Some quick tips for file organization include: *Follow a naming convention *Always use dates when naming files *Be as specific as possible when labeling files and folders *Regularly clean up folders that become cluttered *Back up your important files regularly

Mistakes are bound to happen, but many of the headaches and devastation that stem from data loss due to human error are preventable. By following these tips, you can take steps to protect your data from one of the main causes of issues.

Source: BPT

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30 | August 2022

Digital Media and Entertainment Habits in 2022 TECHNOLOGY

By d-mars.com News Provider

C

onsumers have more options for digital media entertainment than ever before, but what kind of content are they looking for, how are they finding it and how are they interacting with it? Each year, Deloitte - a global professional services organization surveys consumers to answer these questions.

In its latest report, titled "2022 Digital Media Trends, 16th edition: Toward the metaverse," Deloitte surveyed consumers globally and found there is a growing preference for more personalized, interactive, and social experiences, especially among younger generations. Below are five key findings that underscore this trend.

Consumersare aretired tiredofofchasing chasingcontent content 1.1.Consumers Despite the sizable content budgets of streaming video on demand (SVOD) services, consumers are growing more frustrated with SVOD content discovery and subscription fees. SVOD services often require consumers to juggle multiple subscriptions at increasing costs. But on social media platforms, content discovers the user, offering free passive and interactive experiences with near-infinite streams of personalized content that are continuously refined.

SVODservices servicesstruggle struggle 2.2.SVOD attractand andretain retainsubscribers subscribers totoattract SVOD providers face greater pressure to attract and retain subscribers who have become savvier about chasing content and managing their subscription costs. The average churn rate (the rate at which consumers have canceled, or both added and canceled, service during the past six months) in the United States remains consistent at 37% across all paid SVOD services. In the United Kingdom, Germany, Brazil, and Japan, the average overall churn rate is closer to 30%. In an effort to compete, consumers may find media companies diversifying their approach, offering ad-supported tiers and bundles, or pairing premium content with more immersive experiences.

Growingpopularity popularityofof 3.3.Growing user-generatedcontent content user-generated Short-form and user-generated social video feeds are incredibly engaging. Nearly half (46%) of U.S. consumers say they watch more user-generated content online than they did six months ago. Fifty percent (50%) also say they always end up spending more time watching user-generated content online than they had initially planned. This figure jumps to 70% among the youngest generation, Gen Z. About four in 10 (41%) U.S. consumers surveyed spend more time watching user-generated video content online than TV shows and movies on video streaming services, a sentiment that increases to about 60% among the younger generations (Millennials and Gen Zs).

Socialmedia mediausage usage 4.4.Social continuestotorise riseacross acrossgenerations generations continues In the U.S., 81% of social media users use social media services daily, and 59% use these services several times a day. Across all five countries surveyed, Gen Zs, Millennials, and Gen Xers are consistently more

likely to say they use these services. Also, 70% of U.S. respondents say they follow an influencer online, and more than half of U.S. Gen Zs and Millennials surveyed say online personalities influence their buying decisions.

Social media platforms are also affecting consumer spending habits. About 53% of U.S. respondents and around 40% in the U.K., Germany, and Japan say they see ads on social media for products or services they were searching for, a figure that jumps to 72% in Brazil.

Youngerconsumers consumers 5.5.Younger prioritizeinteractive interactiveexperiences experiences prioritize Younger generations who have grown up with smartphones, social media, and video games prefer entertainment experiences that are more social and interactive.

User-generated social media streams and social video games may meet their needs better than streaming video.

According to the report, Gen Z respondents prefer playing video games as their favorite entertainment activity in all five countries. In the U.S., Gen Z and Millennial gamers play the most, logging an average of 11 and 13 hours per week, respectively.

and higher costs to chase entertainment, social media is free and available anywhere, anytime.

Deloitte's report suggests that to prepare for the next generation of digital entertainment, streaming video companies should think hard about how people socialize around entertainment. Will younger generations and the generations to follow them dismiss entertainment that isn't social or interactive in some way? Or will the passive and somewhat isolated experience of streaming video always offer a meaningful form of entertainment?

Only time will tell.

To learn more about the 2022 Digital Media Trends, 16th edition: Toward the metaverse survey, visit www2.deloitte.com for the full report.

Lookingtotothe thefuture future Looking As streaming video audiences juggle more subscriptions

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Source: BPT

August 2022 | 31

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication