Business Journal 194

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BUSINESS JOURNAL

Business | Community | Education and Career | Lifestyle | Real Estate | Technology

October 2023

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Inspire, Inform & Educate

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194th Edition

Educating and Expanding

Financial Preparation

for Everyday People J.D. Garnier, Sr. Vice President, Senior Financial Advisor

20 -21

INSIDE

10

Ally Celebrates 5th Year of ‘Moguls in the Making’ Pitch Competition Along with Rapper Big Sean

08 Lone Star College-Houston North Continues to Innovate

22 Comerica Bank Promotes Brandon Jones to Senior Vice President, External Affairs

2 | October 2023

Garnier Bradley Wealth Management Merrill Lynch Wealth Management 9595 Six Pines Dr. Suite 8380 The Woodlands, TX 77380 281.364.2195 281.364.4425 jd.garnier@ml.com

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October 2023 | 3

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE d-mars.com is pleased to announce our ongoing collaboration with the community, producing uplifting content and success stories that promote the progress of African American businesses and community leaders. This month’s featured story focuses on J.D. Garnier Sr., who holds the positions of Vice President and Senior Financial Advisor at Merrill Lynch.

Aside from his work as an author, Garnier assists clients in achieving financial independence, a prosperous retirement, and a legacy. Given recent data indicating that Black Americans

often face higher levels of economic instability compared to the general population, Garnier is dedicated to serving our community by enhancing our financial well-being.

“Wealth is not about what you acquire, wealth is about who you become. You are the wealth.”

He offers guidance on the necessary steps to achieve both short-term and long-term financial goals.

We sincerely appreciate your continuous support of d-mars.com, as it enables us to further our mission of highlighting the communities in which we live, work, and serve. By working together, we can achieve positive outcomes.

— J.D. Garnier Sr.

MR. D-MARS CERTIFIED:

Houston

Minority Supplier Development Council

HMSDC

Port Houston

METRO

BEHIND THE JOURNAL

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Emma Aguiñaga Kendra Wiseman WEB & GRAPHIC DESIGNER Edward Sanchez SR. BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Chivon Jones PHOTOGRAPHY Bruce Bell Grady Carter L.C. Poullard DISTRIBUTION Mike Jones CONTRIBUTING WRITERS d-mars.com Stacy M. Brown Felicia Guidry

HUB

Educating and Expanding Financial Preparation for Everyday People 20-21 04 BUSINESS

11 OLD FOLKS SAYING

04 How to Decide What’s Right for You: AI and SMBs 05 How a Startup Chair Company Promises to Fix Your Sit

11 “If you like it, I love it”

24 REAL ESTATE

06 COMMUNITY 06 3 Ways People of All Ages Can Give Back 08 Lone Star College-Houston North Continues to Innovate

10 DID YOU KNOW 10 Debbie Allen

10 EDUCATION & CAREER 10 Ally Celebrates 5th Year of ‘Moguls in the Making’ Pitch Competition Along with Rapper Big Sean

12 ENTREPRENUER 12 Black Economic Alliance Foundation Joins Fearless Fund in Fighting Lawsuit

22 FINANCE

22 Comerica Bank Promotes Brandon Jones to Sr. VP, External Affairs 22 Everything You Need To Know About Student Loans

24 Mortgage Preapproval is A Must Before An Offer 26 Making A Difference: Eco-Friendly Tips for Every Room In Your Home

05 TECHNOLOGY 05 Is the iPhone 15 a Game Changer or Just Another Upgrade 05 The Game-Changing Initiatives Making Electric Vehicle Charging Accessible to All 28 TRAVEL 28 Tripadvisor’s Fall Find: City Breaks and Solo Trips Hot This Season 29 Traveling With Pets? Here’s How to Make Your Getaway a Barking Good Time 30 RECIPE OF THE MONTH 30 Vegan Skillet Enchiladas

VBE

DBE

HHF CB/LB

OUR SERVICES

COVER STORY

CHIEF OF STAFF & MANAGING EDITOR Kimberly Floyd

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla

HISD

CONTENTS

PUBLISHER & CEO Keith J. Davis, Sr.

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Émil Flemmon

City of Houston

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

13-19 HEALTH & WELLNESS 14 How Urologist Detect Bladder Cancer with Blue Light Cystoscopy 15 Teen Talk: What’s Weighing on Teens’ Minds and Mental Health 16 Things to Know About Weight Loss Surgery for African Americans 18 Autumn Is Coming: Get Ahead of Allergy Symptoms Now

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4 | October 2023 BUSINESS

How to DECIDE What is RIGHT for You

AI and SMBs By d-mars.com News Provider

rom the news to social media to your favorite podcast - artificial intelligence (AI) is capturing headlines. You’ve probably heard about generative AI tools that can write articles, create plans and manipulate images, and as a business owner, you might be curious how this could save you time and benefit your bottom line.

You’re not alone. As technology advances, AI’s potential to revolutionize business grows more significant every day. I’ve served SMBs my whole career, and now in my current role at BILL, I spend time speaking to our SMB customers. I’m consistently hearing the same message: SMBs want to understand how automation and AI can help them get more control of their business and be more efficient. For these businesses, the key is to find the right technology partner that can help you integrate AI tools in a way that works for you and your business.

Here are some tips for how you can find the right technology and tools to help your business make the most of AI.

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HOW AI CAN HELP YOUR BUSINESS THRIVE First, let’s take a look at what we mean when we talk about AI. An AI tool is a software application that relies on artificial intelligence and machine learning to complete a specific task. These tools are used in all kinds of industries and sectors, including health care, education, finance, marketing and business. Like all technology, AI is changing and evolving, and you may have read about, or tried, the latest in AI technology - Generative AI. AI tools can be really helpful for small businesses - you just need to find the right tool or solution for the jobs you need done. Here are some of the capabilities that AI can deliver for your business: 1. AI can automate your repetitive tasks: Administrative tasks like recording sales data, reconciling accounts, reporting spending and expenses, creating invoices, and issuing payments can take hours. It’s also susceptible to human error. One incorrect calculation or wrong number could have a big financial impact for your business. The good news is, that you can save time by using AI tools to automate these tasks.

2. AI can improve customer engagement: We know that SMBs are focused on serving your customers. Which is why tools to help you listen to, and understand, your customers' needs, questions and concerns are so valuable. AI-powered chat on your website or social media platform can interact with customers in real-time, and enable you to respond promptly.

3. AI can help you promote your business: Great marketing can be a catalyst for growth, but it also takes time and money. AI can help speed up the creation of content for you that amplifies your brand and business, speaks to your customer base, and reaches new customers. For example, it can help write blogs, social media, product descriptions, and more.

4. AI can analyze your customer data: When it comes to making strategic business decisions, data is one of the most important assets you have. AI-powered tools can analyze large amounts of data quickly and efficiently, and deliver actionable information so you can capitalize on key trends. This can help you make informed decisions about all aspects of your business from products, to pricing, operations and more.

5. AI can help you deliver a better customer journey: The way customers experience your product or service is key to customer retention and brand loyalty. As AI tools develop, they are becoming better adapted and trained.

This means they can learn from customer behavior and deliver a more personalized customer journey. This is good for your customers, and good for your business.

THINGS TO CONSIDER Before making any investment or change in technology, it's important to consider a few factors related to the AI capabilities that you integrate, as well as your own business needs. These factors can help determine what kind of AI is - and isn’t - right for you.

1. Optimizing what you already have: Integrating AI doesn't necessarily mean making a new investment in a different software or tool. There are lots of situations where you can optimize your existing tools with embedded AI. For example, if you’re using a financial operations platform like BILL, there’s a good chance that you are already using AI capabilities within the platform that you weren’t aware of. BILL has integrated AI into different parts of our solutions, some examples include auto-reading invoices, auto-matching customers and suppliers, detecting and managing risks, and accelerating payments for our customers.

2. Security: Keeping your data, and the data of your customers, safe is at the top of every business owner’s priority. The potential for hacking and data breaches is one of the risks associated with some AI tools, particularly free or low-cost options that don’t keep your information secure. It's important to partner with a trusted company or organization that is committed to keeping your business information safe and is transparent about the risk landscape.

3. Supporting your team with this transition: AI can change an employee’s responsibilities and team dynamics. For example, they may have questions about whether their position will no longer be needed, or how this can help their workload. Take the time to talk with your team early in the process about changes, including opportunities to use the efficiencies gained for their benefit.

4. Don't rush!: Before investing in any technology, take the time to assess whether it is right for you and your business. Talk to fellow business owners and ask for recommendations. Take advantage of free trials and experiments before you integrate. And if you're wondering whether a product is right for you, reach out to a company and ask them for a demo. Third-party review sites might also be a helpful gauge of the pros and cons of a product.

PARTNERING FOR AI SUCCESS One of the most important considerations is which company you choose to partner with to deliver these AI capabilities for your business. You want to work with technology partners that can work with you to help customize AI tools to your needs and facilitate integration.

While the technology is still developing and will continue to evolve, there are great technology partners that can help your business harness AI. I always encourage SMBs to partner with innovation-forward companies that build AI technology with the unique needs and interests of SMBs front of mind.

At BILL, we’re 100% focused on helping SMBs to get more control, visibility and efficiency in their business.

We do this by taking sophisticated and complex AI, and making it simple, accessible and impactful for SMBs. Our advanced software eliminates human error caused by manual data entry and lets you accomplish more tasks in less time. Customers report saving, on average, 50% of time on bill pay thanks to our artificial intelligence simplifying the payments process.

One of our customers, Repurpose, a plant-based materials company, has seen firsthand the benefits of harnessing AI for their business. “Our AP manager is very impressed by the AI technology that BILL employs,” says Senior Controller Sarah Sanders. “The pre-populated invoice information makes the bill recording very painless.”

By cutting time spent on bill creation and reducing costly human errors, SMBs like Repurpose are able to maximize productivity.

Incorporating AI into your workflows successfully can be a game-changer for your business. BILL can help you save time and focus on your business, thanks to our AIpowered business payment technology that is powerful, secure, and easy to integrate and use.

To learn more, visit bill.com/product/ai to read how BILL is putting AI to work to help businesses thrive.

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Source: BrandPoint

October 2023 | 5 TECHNOLOGY

Is the iPhone 15 a Game Changer or Just Another Upgrade?

By d-mars.com News Provider

pple released its brand-new iPhones, ending months of rumors and hypothesis, and now folks who need or want a brand new one must decide if the time has finally come to overspend on Cupertino’s present day vivid objects.

As smartphones now are a mature generation and actual innovations come fewer and farther between, it’s no longer a clean choice.

Sincerely positioned, whether you ought to spring for an iPhone 15 relies upon for your situations. As in the beyond, we’ll help making a decision based totally on a variety of factors. but first, some basics: Apple’s 2023 iPhone lineup comes in segments: the usual models, known as the iPhone 15 (6.1-inch show) and the iPhone 15 Plus (6.7-inch show), and the better-stop iPhone 15 pro (6.1 inches) and iPhone 15 seasoned Max (6.7 inches). many of the premier functions from 2022’s professionals are observed on this 12 month’s widespread fashions, along with the Dynamic Island, which replaces the top-of-screen notch present for the reason that iPhone X; a 48-megapixel fundamental camera; and the A16 Bionic processor. increasingly more, Apple differentiates its pro models with capabilities no longer blanketed within the decrease segment. This 12 months, the pros get a titanium frame, which makes the handsets a great deal lighter; aid for the faster Wi-Fi 6E standard; a beefed-up digicam system; the A17 Bionic processor, constructed the use of a thinner, 3-nanometer system that increases performance and saves electricity; and the venerable ring/silent toggle transfer is changed by means

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of a programmable motion button, at the beginning seen on last year’s Apple Watch ultra.

To set it apart from the smaller 15 pro, the 15 seasoned Max receives an improved telephoto lens with a 5X optical zoom. This model also is no longer to be had with a 128-gigabyte garage tier.

As a substitute, it starts with 256 GB on the same fee ($1,199) as this storage level closing yr. if you have been hoping to shop for the least-costly pro Max with much less storage (closing yr.’s $1,099), then for you that is a de facto charge growth. if you deliberate on procuring a bit extra area anyway, it’s not. (All the other models start on the identical fees as closing 12 months.)

With customizable widgets proper on the emblem-new cover display, there are greater ways to do your factor your manner with the new Galaxy Z Flip5.

Both segments make the switch from Apple’s proprietary Lightning connection port to the enterprise popular USB-C, in large part the result of a mandate by way of the ecu Union.

In concept, this should allow quicker charging and information transfers than the Lightning connector, but on the usual 15 models neither are any higher than the use of Lightning.

On the pro models, USB-C charging charges are like Lightning, but records-switch speeds are on the USB 3. zero trendy, or 10 gigabits in step with 2nd — so long as you’re the usage of a cable that may help that velocity. In the closing 12 months, not all USB-C cables are created equal (see houstonchronicle.com/ usbc) and choosing them may be perplexing. but usually, it approaches you can use the identical cable to charge your iPhones, more recent iPads, Macs, and computer laptops that assist USB charging.

The Game-Changing Initiatives Making Electric Vehicle Charging ACCESSIBLE TO ALL By d-mars.com News Provider

f you own an electric vehicle (EV) or are seriously considering buying one in the near future, you’re not alone. Thanks in part to the wider availability of vehicles and various tax credits, EV sales continue growing, jumping from around 2% to 8.5% of market share in the past two years.

For those hesitating about purchasing an EV, top reasons most people have for not buying one include concerns about where to charge their vehicle, and the range of a single charge. While it’s common to see gas stations everywhere - and filling your tank is relatively quick - being able to locate EV charging stations that supply a fast charge is crucial to make EV ownership convenient and practical for everyone. And with the demand for enough electricity to power these charging stations growing, it’s also vital for investments to be made in supporting the electrical grid to keep up with demand.

How one company is leading the way in EV charging

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• To help provide more fast charging stations nationwide, Electrify America, owners, and operators of the largest open DC fast charging network in the U.S., is investing over $2 billion in Zero Emission Vehicle infrastructure (ZEV) and access to help millions of Americans discover the benefits of electric driving. The company currently operates in 46 states and the District of Columbia, supporting increased ZEV adoption with a comprehensive, technologically advanced, and customer-friendly network.

• In 2022 alone, Electrify America powered over 5 million customer charging sessions (3.5 times the sessions provided in 2021).

These charging sessions delivered roughly 173 gigawatts of electricity, enabling an estimated 493 million miles of electric driving - avoiding the consumption of roughly 21 million gallons of gasoline.

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Supporting the electric grid through renewable solar power Beyond its work to keep supplying more fast charging stations for residential, commercial, and public use, Electrify America entered into a financial agreement that underpinned construction of a one square mile (690 acres) solar facility in San Bernardino County, California: Electrify America Solar Glow 1.

This facility will be providing a new source of 100% renewable energy to help support the electric grid. The investment is expected to generate 75 megawatts at peak solar capacity, comparable to the power drawn by 500 EVs charging at once at an average speed of 150 kilowatts. However, the facility was designed not to directly provide energy to its charging stations, instead providing a new additional source of energy to the electrical grid that would not have been available otherwise. The facility houses over 200,000 solar panels, which will provide 225,000 megawatt hours annually - equal to the energy used by over 20,000 American homes.

The new solar facility is an important milestone to help reduce use of coal or gas energy producing facilities with 100% renewable energy.

“We’re committed to being a part of the broader charging solution for EV drivers today and in the future,” said Robert Barrosa, president and CEO, Electrify America. “This solar project is a significant accomplishment, reinforcing our commitment to back all energy delivered to customers on our coast-to-coast, public, ultra-fast DC charging network with 100% renewable energy.”

To learn more, Electrify America’s sustainability efforts visit ElectrifyAmerica. com/Renewable-Energy.

Source: BrandPoint

6 | October 2023

ways

COMMUNITY

can

ALL AGES

GIVE BACK

Washington State Capitol steps to support legislation protecting the Chinook salmon and orca populations.

He also regularly addresses state legislators, and travels statewide to speak to K-12 students about environmental issues.

By d-mars.com News Provider

o matter your age, it’s likely you’ve questioned your ability to make a difference. Research from the global nonprofit Points of Light shows that 73% of people believe that volunteering is more important than ever, yet 66% think they can’t make a big impact in their communities. Activists on the ground prove otherwise. That’s why Points of Light, which is dedicated to inspiring and equipping people to act, has recognized thousands of volunteers for their contributions to their communities through The Daily Point of Light Award.

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the Honeycomb Project. Today, he mentors younger volunteers while maintaining his own service projects.

VOICE The youth voice is vital, pointing us to which concerns are most important to future world leaders and helping broaden perspectives. Use your voice to advocate for causes you care about by posting on social media, attending a rally or contacting a government leader.

Adults can amplify youth voices by sharing with their networks or organizing forums for youth to be seen and heard.

Seventeen-year-old Daily Point of Light Award honoree Maanit Goel used his voice when organizing a rally of fellow activists on the

“Points of Light’s research found that Gen Z is the most civically engaged generation to date. Our youth honorees demonstrate that people of all ages can strengthen communities and solve persistent problems,” says Diane Quest, interim CEO, Points of Light.

To inspire you to action, the organization is sharing the stories of youth honorees, along with three elements from The Points of Light Civic Circle®, a framework for helping individuals get civically engaged: VOLUNTEER Nonprofit organizations and NGOs need volunteer power to deliver support to the communities they collaborate with. If you’re an adult wanting to facilitate youth volunteerism, consider organizing a youthspecific event or helping transport the young people in your life to an event. To find a volunteer opportunity that aligns with your interests and availability, check out Points of Light Engage, a database with hundreds of thousands of in-person and virtual volunteer opportunities.

The power of volunteering is apparent when considering Daily Point of Light Award honoree Nate Buescher, a high schooler who prepares food for a local food pantry and distributes home-cooked meals to tent cities around Chicago. Buescher began fighting food insecurity at age 7 with

LISTEN AND LEARN Social justice and environmental issues are nuanced, involving many people with different perspectives shaped by their own experiences. Listening and learning is one way to honor others’ lived experiences and get a fuller scope of an issue.

Young people can commit to thoroughly researching causes they care about, talking to those working toward solutions and holding space for those impacted.

Adults can connect with the young people in their lives, inviting dialogue that allows for sharing different perspectives and finding common ground.

These are the driving ideas behind the work of high schooler Kristie To, who became a leading force in Asian American racial justice when she founded Hearts Against Hate. Among the initiatives of her nonprofit is distributing Asian history and Asian American Pacific Islander civil rights curriculum to children.

“Cultural sensitivity starts with exposure, and that’s what we’re trying to do with these elementary schoolers,” says To. “There are many formal channels for civic engagement, but simple actions make a difference too,” says Quest.

“Whether it’s carrying groceries in for a neighbor or donating books to the library, the important thing is to get started when you see a need in your community.”

To learn about other avenues for social engagement, check out the Points of Light Civic Circle by visiting pointsoflight.org/civic-circle.

Source: StatePoint

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October 2023 | 7

My dream?

To fix up my home so I can pass it down to my kids someday.

At Stellar Bank, we’re all about making your dreams a reality. Whether you need a home equity loan, home improvement loan or want to refinance, Stellar Bank’s mortgage experts will find the solution that’s right for you.

Visit Stellar.Bank/home to apply or stop by one of our Banking Centers to talk to a banker.

NMLS# 451312

SBCO-005 Mortgage Lending Ad-10.33x13.1_MECH.indd 1

3/23/23 2:38 PM

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8 | October 2023 COMMUNITY

Photo Credit: Lone Star College

Lone Star College-Houston North Continues to Innovate By d-mars.com News Provider

one Star College-Houston North Fallbrook is serving students in new and innovative ways.

The concept behind this college location originated from a partnership between Fallbrook Church and Lone Star College.

“The partnership between Lone Star The partnership between Lone College-Houston North and Fallbrook Star College-Houston North and Church is the perfect example of Fallbrook Church is the perfect how you can magnify the impactex-in of howthrough you cancollaboration.” magnify the aample community impact in a community through colSaid Dr. Quentin Wright, Campus laboration.” said Dr. Quentin Wright, President.

Campus President.

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During the fall semester, this location witnessed a remarkable 40% increase in enrollment. Dr. Wright attributes this growth primarily to the implementation of new partnership initiatives with our local school districts. One example of such an initiative is the Teachers College Academy, launched by the Spring Independent School District. Through this program, students from Dekaney, Spring, and Westfield high schools can graduate with both high school diplomas and Associate of Arts in Teaching degrees.

Furthermore, Lone Star College-Houston North is also collaborating with the Aldine Independent School District on the Accelerated College Academy, which was introduced for the first time this semester. This partnership involves Benjamin O. Davis High School and Aldine Senior High School, where students attend classes at Lone Star College-Houston North locations. The primary objective of this initiative is to support students in earning a minimum of core complete status or 42 college credit hours while still in high school.

In addition to these new programs, Lone Star College-Houston North is offering various wraparound services to support its students. To address transportation issues, METRO initiated a shuttle service earlier this year named the LSC Connector. The college also formalized an agreement with Fallbrook Christian Academy to provide

childcare assistance to enrolled students.

Starting in September, the Houston Food Bank will expand its food scholarship program to tackle students’ food insecurity.

This program is an addition to the existing CARE Center, which serves as a food and basic needs pantry at all four Lone Star College-Houston North locations. The CARE Centers provide toiletries, snacks, and household items for the students.

While Dr. Wright recognizes the importance of enrollment, he emphasizes that what truly fills him with pride is the outstanding performance of the students.

“I am very pleased that we are serving more students. However, I am most proud that since the inception of this location, students have completed their classes at a high rate.”

Lone Star College-Houston North consists of four locations within the North Houston region. These locations are inclusive of Lone Star College-Houston North Fairbanks, Lone Star College-Houston North Fallbrook, Lone Star College Houston North Greenspoint, and Lone Star College-Houston North Victory.

For more information about Lone Star College-Houston North go to Lonestar. edu/HoustonNorth.

Lone Star College enrolls over 80,000 students each semester providing high-quality, low-cost academic transfer and career training education.

L SC is tra ining tomorrow’s workforce today and redefining the community college experience to support student success.

Mario K. Castillo J.D. serves as LSC Chancellor, one the largest institutions of higher education in the Houston area and has been named a 2022 Great Colleges to Work For® institution by the Chronicle of Higher Education and recognized by Fortune Magazine and Great Place To Work® as one of this year’s Best Workplaces in Texas™. LSC consists of eight colleges, seven centers, eight Workforce Centers of Excellence and Lone Star Corporate College. To learn more, visit LoneStar.edu.

Source: Lone Star College

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Shattering expectations.

And glass ceilings.

At Comerica Bank, inclusion and equity define who we are.

That’s why 65% of our workforce is female, including one-third of our executive team and board of directors. And that’s why we’ve been named Forbes America’s Best Employers for Women.

®

Raise Your Expectations MEMBER FDIC. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY LENDER. CB-652171-02-03-01-01 02/23 Ennis, Dawn. “America’s Best Employers for Women.” Forbes, www.forbes.com/lists/best-employers-women. Published July 26, 2022.

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®

October 2023 | 9

DIVERSITY IS THE

SPICE OF

Life AT H-E-B

H-E-B’s Supplier Diversity Program works hard to ensure we’re selling goods and utilizing services from a wide variety of Texan businesses. We’re proud that our suppliers are as diverse as the Lone Star State itself.

As a former small business ourselves, we believe in and celebrate the value & strength that working with small businesses, local businesses, and businesses owned by minorities, women, LGBTQ+, Veterans, and disabled Texans brings to both our business and the communities we serve.

©2023 HEB, 23-3209

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10 | October 2023 EDUCATION & CAREER

Moguls Credit Ally Financial

Ally Celebrates 5th Year of ‘Moguls in the Making’ Pitch Competition Along with Rapper Big Sean By d-mars.com News Provider

uring the Moguls in the Making competition 60 students, grouped into teams of four from 15 HBCUs, will be asked to develop and pitch business ideas that promote economic mobility. Event fosters HBCU student entrepreneurship; empowerment.

For the fifth year, Ally and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, the largest organization exclusively representing the Black College community, are hosting Moguls in the Making, a pitch competition offering 60 students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities the opportunity to learn vital business skills, while competing for valuable scholarships and paid internships.

“This is our fifth year celebrating the innovation and entrepreneurship of over 200 HBCU students, whose successes have provided viable business ideas that support economic mobility in our communities,” said Natalie Brown, Senior Director of Corporate Citizenship at Ally.

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“Moguls in the Making is an ongoing commitment to increase social capital among HBCU students, while also providing access, exposure, and opportunities to elevate their success.”

During the Moguls in the Making competition the students, grouped into teams of four from 15 HBCUs, will be asked to develop and pitch business ideas that promote economic mobility. This year’s program will take place in Charlotte, North Carolina. Charlottearea business leaders alongside Ally and TMCF team members will serve as judges and mentors.

“People sharing their information to the next generation, and onto the next, I just want to keep that going,” Sean said. “If I can help somebody that gives my life way more purpose than just focusing on myself.”

“Ally is committed to building an early talent pipeline with creative, diverse, highly skilled individuals from all backgrounds and socio-economic status,” said Reggie Willis, Chief Diversity Officer at Ally.

“Connecting with motivated, passionate students through our Moguls in the Making program helps us do that. Creating an inclusive workplace doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a continuous, intentional effort that requires us to know our teammates well and react to the changes we see in the workplace and in society. The students have taught us so much about the next generation who want to make an impact on our world.”

More than 300 students completed the application process for this year’s competition. Those chosen to compete will hail from Alabama A&M University, Delaware State University, Florida A&M University, Howard University, Johnson C. Smith University, Morgan State University, NC A&T State University, NC Central University, Norfolk State University, Prairie View A&M University, Southern University at Baton Rouge, Spelman College, Texas Southern University, Tuskegee University, and Virginia State University.

Each member of the top three winning teams will earn scholarships for $20,000, $10,000, and $5,000 respectively as well as guaranteed paid internship offers from Ally, a laptop, and other prizes. All students from each of the 12 other teams will earn $1,000 scholarships for their participation in the rigorous challenge.

Moguls in the Making was developed in 2019 to provide HBCU students with career-launching business experience, networking access to executives, internships, and scholarships while also giving Ally a new path for reaching diverse talent. Since MITM launched five years ago, Ally has hired 42 of the participants as interns and 12 as full-time employees, working on teams across the company, from IT and marketing to product design and development. The nation’s largest all-digital bank has awarded approximately $700k through the program since 2019.

Source: News Provider

DID YOU KNOW? Houston native Debbie Allen is known for her choreography on Broadway and The Academy Awards, directing shows like the classic “A Different World,” and even acting. During an appearance on “The Jennifer Hudson Show,” Allen stated that she couldn’t take dance classes in Houston because there were none for Black hopefuls. “I just know what the Arts and education can do for a young person.

It’s what helped me get through the civil rights down in Texas.” It’s one of the many components that led her to create the Debbie Allen School which caters to middle school students. “The Debbie Allen middle school has been a dream of mine for probably 20 years and we finally started it.”

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October 2023 | 11 OLD FOLKS SAYING

The old saying goes “If you like it, I love it,” will never go out of style. Depending on its usage, this adage is usually in support of someone’s choices or decisions that may not always be favorable to those close to us. Therefore, to minimize any disputes and to keep the peace, this phrase can keep you in neutral territory.

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12 | October 2023 ENTREPRENUER

BLACK ECONOMIC ALLIANCE FOUNDATION

JOINS FEARLESS FUND IN FIGHTING LAWSUIT

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

ounded in 2019 by three Black women, Fearless Fund has championed economic empowerment and opportunity for women of color. Their flagship initiative, the Fearless Strivers Grant Contest, has provided substantial financial support to Black women entrepreneurs, with awards reaching up to $20,000. However, Blum’s American Alliance for Equal Rights contends that this program violates a section of the Civil Rights Act of 1866, which prohibits racial discrimination in contracts.

Earlier this year, Edward Blum’s American Alliance for Equal Rights launched legal action against Fearless Fund. The lawsuit, brought before the U.S. District Court in Atlanta, alleges that the Fearless Fund discriminates against non-Black women.

Experts said the suit could present a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse on race in the workplace.

The Black Economic Alliance (BEA) Foundation, a leading organization mobilizing Black business leaders and advocates, announced the submission of an amicus brief advocating against a preliminary injunction against the Fearless Fund, whose Fearless Foundation focuses on aiding Black women entrepreneurs and other women of color in securing venture capital for their startups.

BEA CEO Samantha Tweedy emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship, highlighting its pivotal role in achieving the American dream and economic prosperity. She noted the systemic obstacles Black entrepreneurs, particularly Black women, faced in establishing and expanding their businesses.

“Fearless Fund helps Black women overcome those barriers, which is good for Black work, wages, and

F

wealth and good for our economy as a whole,” Tweedy wrote in a statement on Monday, Sept. 11. “Given BEA Foundation’s own recent polling that showed widespread support for businesses taking active steps to reflect the racial diversity of this country, it is clear that those trying to claw back pathways to economic progress for the Black community are out of step with the vast majority of Americans.”

The amicus brief by the BEA Foundation focuses on the challenges confronting Black women entrepreneurs.

It highlights the persisting discriminatory systems, pointing out that Black women business owners encounter a rejection rate three times higher than their white counterparts. Moreover, Tweedy noted that Black women receive less than one percent of venture capital funding. The Fearless Strivers Grant Contest, one of the initiatives, aims to rectify these historical injustices and unleash a reservoir of untapped talent and innovation for the betterment and growth of the economy.

The legal action against Fearless Fund represents a broader trend as modern-day opponents of civil and women’s rights attempt to roll back advancements in racial diversity within the business sector, civil rights advocates stated. Recent polling shows widespread support for businesses promoting racial diversity in America. The support is robust across different races, ideologies, and generations. It is also rooted in the belief that diversity drives greater profitability and innovation.

Renowned civil rights advocate Ben Crump and others have vowed to combat Blum’s actions.

Founded in 2019 by three Black women, Fearless Fund has championed economic empowerment and opportunity for women of color. Their flagship initiative, the Fearless Strivers Grant Contest, has

provided substantial financial support to Black women entrepreneurs, with awards reaching up to $20,000. However, Blum’s American Alliance for Equal Rights contends that this program violates a section of the Civil Rights Act of 1866, which prohibits racial discrimination in contracts.

Blum asserts that certain members are being excluded based on race, and they demand redress for what they perceive as a violation of their rights. Alphonso David, a civil rights attorney and the President and CEO of The Global Black Economic Forum, emphasized the undeniable inequality in today’s playing field. “Today, the playing field is not level — that is beyond dispute,” said David.

“Thosetargeting targetingFearless Fearless Fundwant wanttotopropagate propa“Those Fund gate a system that privileges and shuts out a system that privileges some some and shuts out most. most.

They want us tothat pretend that inequities They want us to pretend inequities do not exist.

They want us to deny ourus history.” do not exist.

They want to deny our history.”

Crump asserted that Blum severely underestimated the resilience of Fearless Fund. “Blum thought they would be the easiest ones to pick off. Oh, was he wrong,” said Crump. Support for Fearless Fund’s cause extends to organizations like the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, the National Women’s Law Center, and the law firm Gibson, Dunn, and Crutcher.

“This attack does not change our mission,” declared Arian Simone, CEO, and co-founder of the Fearless Fund. “We will remain steadfast on ensuring that the Fearless Fund will continue to empower women of color entrepreneurs.”

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HEALTH & WELLNESS JOURNAL

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

October 2023

|

Inspire, Inform & Educate

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48th Edition

Things to Know About

WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY for African Americans

16-17

INSIDE

15

Teen Talk : What’s Weighing On Teens’ Minds And Mental Health

14

How Urologists Detect Bladder Cancer with Blue Light Cystoscopy

18

Autumn Is Coming: Get Ahead Of Allergy Symptoms Now

14 | October 2023 HEALTH

How Urologists DETECT BLADDER CANCER WITH Blue Light Cystoscopy

By: d-mars.com News Provider

ike many bladder cancer survivors, Karen S. often reflects on her personal experience with the disease, and the support she received throughout her healthcare journey.

Karen was diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2010 at age 54, after experiencing symptoms for two years.

As an oncologist nurse for more than 40 years, she was aware of the many forms of cancer. Nevertheless, she assumed her frequent urinary tract infections and discomfort were gynecological in nature and never expected her doctors to discover a tumor or to be diagnosed with bladder cancer.

After receiving a variety of medical treatments, Karen still had persistent disease. She transferred to a National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center where her bladder cancer specialist informed her about a technology called Blue Light Cystoscopy (BLC) that would allow her doctor to see tumors that white light alone may miss.

“BLC was a quick and easy procedure that gave my doctor ability identify tumors early on, “BLC was athe quick andto easy procedure that gave my doctor ability tumors early allowing for the earlier and to lessidentify aggressive treatment,” on, Karen. allowing for earlier and less aggressive says

L

treatment,” says Karen.

Each year, about 81,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with bladder cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute. Symptoms in both men and women can mimic common urinary tract infections, like they did for Karen. For men, however,

the more common symptom is blood in the urine.

Whatever the symptoms, it is important to see a doctor.

According to Karen, people with bladder cancer, or those who suspect they may have bladder cancer, should ask their doctor questions, and seek a second opinion. Once diagnosed, they should explore support groups and do research on bladder cancer, including learning about the latest treatments and technologies available.

“It’s especially important for me to inform others about the benefits of BLC, since many people may not be aware of this option. BLC may help others diagnosed with bladder cancer the way it helped me,” says Karen.

A cystoscopy is a medical procedure where a urological healthcare professional uses a thin, tube-like telescope called a cystoscope to look directly into the bladder for a close examination of the lining.

This procedure is used to help find the cause of symptoms and to treat and monitor the condition. Historically, the only type of cystoscopy available used white light. BLC, however, uses both white and blue light to offer significantly improved detection of suspicious areas compared to white light alone

and has been proven to increase the detection of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer.

Today, Karen is cancer free and continues to support those affected by bladder cancer, including patients, caregivers, and their loved ones, by hosting support groups and working with the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network. These resources can be found by visiting https://bcan.org/.

People experiencing symptoms of bladder cancer and those who have been recently diagnosed should ask their urologist about BLC, because it’s not available everywhere.

To search for a location where BLC is offered near you, visit https://rebrand.ly/BLC-Locator.

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October 2023 | 15 HEALTH

W H AT I S

WEigHING

-TEEN TALK-

N Teens’ Minds

AND MENTAL HE ALTH

By: d-mars.com News Provider

4. CONSIDER THE APPROACH

t’s not uncommon for teens to experience heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and depression during the school year as they contend with known stressors like bullying, peer pressure, and academic and extracurricular demands.

However, recent research, “Family Matters: Report on the State of Family Mental Health in the U.S.,” conducted by MDLIVE, a leading virtual care provider, finds there are many more issues beyond the classroom walls that are affecting teens’ mental health. According to the report, teens are just as likely as adults, if not more than, to be concerned today about the job market, family financial stability, and the impact of inflation on food and housing costs. What’s more, the report shows a disconnect between the issues teens say are affecting them, and what parents think they know about what’s impacting their teens’ mental health. More than half of teens say LGBTQ+ rights affect their mental health, while only 42% of parents think it affects their kids. Similar gaps exist for the impact on mental health of social media and news of spikes in cases of COVID and other infectious diseases.

The good news is that teens wish that there was more family discussion around many of these issues, including LGBTQ+ rights, school safety, and social justice in the U.S. While it is not always a comfortable or natural situation for parents, it is important that they find opportunities to talk with their kids about the issues that are troubling them.

“Parents may be uncomfortable talking about certain current topics because they may not fully understand them themselves, fear they might disagree with their teen’s point of view or underestimate the impact of these issues on their kids,” said Dr. Shakira Espada-Campos, associate chief of behavioral health at MDLIVE. “It’s not always easy but leaning into these tough topics shows teens that open and honest communication is important and can have a positive impact on their well-being.”

Rather than scheduling a specific time to talk, which may place undue pressure on them, consider initiating the conversation during a shared activity, such as cooking or hiking, to allow for a more natural and relaxed dialogue. Try asking specific questions like “What was the best or most difficult part of your day?” or “Which one of your friends do you feel you have the most in common with?” which prompt answers that reveal their current mindset. And be consistent with these conversations, which will let your teen know they have consistent support from you.

I

5. RECOGNIZE THE SIGNS

1. DO YOUR HOMEWORK

Unlike a physical ailment, mental health struggles might not always present obvious signs. It’s often the subtle shifts that may signal an issue, including changes in behavior, body language, academic performance, sleep or eating habits. If your child seems to be withdrawing from previously enjoyed activities or from friends and family, it can also be a sign they’re struggling, and time to talk to them about professional support.

Talking to teens about significant societal topics requires sensitivity, empathy, and a willingness to learn. Before you initiate a conversation, familiarize yourself with the topic, but be comfortable not being an KNOW YOUR SUPPORT OPTIONS expert. Teens want openness, not necessarily expertise, Remember, the ultimate goal is to ensure your child feels heard, understood, and supported. There are many and they want to know you will listen. options available for getting your child support from a mental health professional. Virtual therapy services are a convenient and flexible option for teens - the comfort 2. KEEP YOUR POSITIONS IN CHECK of being in their own environment can facilitate open Everyone has an opinion, but with your teens, it’s dialogue, while also accommodating the often-hectic critical to keep your own views in check as the schedules of teens and parents. Always contact your conversation unfolds. They may know your opinion health benefits plan to check what behavioral services already just from observing you. You don’t have to hide may be covered. your views but be sure not to downplay or dismiss their Source: StatePoint position or concerns.

3. TUNE INTO SOCIAL MEDIA

Consider social media as a window into your teen’s world.

While respecting their privacy, ask them about their While discussing mental health with your children can favorite content creators or news channels they follow seem overwhelming, Espada-Campos outlines five simple and start tuning into those channels yourself. This can and attainable ways parents can address difficult subject give you a better understanding of the themes or ideas matters and pinpoint any other concerns they or their resonating with them, and, in turn, help you determine the topics worth discussing. children may have: ENGAGEMENT AND SUPPORT

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16 | October 2023

Things to Know About

WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY for African Americans By d-mars.com News Provider

besity is a widespread health issue that affects individuals from diverse backgrounds, including African Americans. For those dealing with severe obesity and its associated health risks, weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, can offer a viable solution. However, it is crucial to have a thorough understanding of this option, particularly when considering the specific factors that may apply to African Americans.

O

Here are important insights to consider regarding weight loss surgery within the context of the African American community.

1. Prevalence of Obesity: African Americans, like many other populations in the United States, have a higher prevalence of obesity. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the obesity rate among non-Hispanic Black adults is 39.8%, which is significantly higher than the national average. This highlights the urgent need for effective weight loss solutions.

2. Health Disparities: Obesity often leads to various health disparities within the African American community, including an increased risk of type 2

diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and certain cancers. Weight loss surgery has the potential to help mitigate some of these disparities by aiding in weight reduction and improving overall health.

3. Weight Loss Surgery Options: There are different types of weight loss surgery, with gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, adjustable gastric banding (Lap-Band), and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD/DS) being the most common ones. The choice of procedure should be based on individual health factors, preferences, and consultation with a medical professional.

4. Eligibility Criteria: Not everyone is eligible for weight loss surgery. Generally, candidates should have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions. African Americans may also need to consider other factors such as genetics and family history when assessing their eligibility.

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October 2023 | 17

5. Consultation and Evaluation: Before undergoing weight loss surgery, individuals should consult with a healthcare provider specializing in bariatric surgery.

This consultation involves a comprehensive medical evaluation, including discussions about medical history, lifestyle, and potential risks and benefits.

8. Diet and Nutrition: Following weight loss surgery, dietary adjustments are necessary. African American patients should focus on maintaining a balanced nutrition plan that includes culturally relevant foods.

Working with dietitians can help develop meal plans that align with their dietary preferences and restrictions.

6. Cultural Sensitivity: Finding a healthcare provider who understands the cultural nuances and health disparities within the African American community can be beneficial. It is essential to engage in open and honest conversations about your health, concerns, and expectations.

7. Post-Surgery Support: Weight loss surgery is not a quick fix; it requires significant lifestyle changes.

African American patients should seek support from their healthcare team and consider joining support groups or seeking counseling to navigate the emotional and psychological aspects of their journey.

9. Physical Activity: Regular physical activity is a vital component of successful weight loss and long-term weight management. Discovering enjoyable activities that align with cultural preferences can help maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Weight loss surgery can be a life-changing option for African Americans struggling with obesity and its associated health concerns. However, making informed decisions, considering cultural sensitivity, and receiving comprehensive post-surgery support are critical factors in achieving successful outcomes. By addressing these considerations, individuals within the African American community can embark on a journey towards improved health and a better quality of life.

10. Long-Term Commitment: Weight loss surgery requires a lifelong commitment. Patients must attend follow-up appointments, take prescribed medications and supplements, and adhere to dietary and lifestyle changes for lasting success.

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18 | October 2023 HEALTH

AUTUMN IS COMING: GET AHEAD OF ALLERGY SYMPTOMS NOW N95 mask to help filter out pollen and wearing a hat and sunglasses to help keep pollen out of your eyes.

By d-mars.com News Provider

ou probably know what’s coming: Along with changing leaves and dropping temps this fall will come the sniffles, stuffy nose and itchy eyes from allergies to certain plants like ragweed. Unfortunately, climate change has increased the intensity of symptoms and the length of time that many people cope with their autumn allergies.

If fall is a time when you’re hit hard by allergies, you are better off acting now - instead of after you’re already experiencing symptoms.

“Don’t let the changing seasons catch you by surprise,” says Kathleen May, M.D., president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI).

“Planning ahead can help make this year’s fall allergy season a lot more manageable, no matter what’s happening in the environment where you live.”

Whether you’ve had allergies for years or you suspect that they may be the cause of your recent unpleasant symptoms, here are tips from ACAAI to help you prepare for autumn allergies before they strike - so you can reduce itching, sneezing wheezing and enjoy everything the season has to offer.

Y

STAY IN THE KNOW

Keep an eye on your local pollen and mold counts.

When they are high, it’s best to avoid spending too much time outdoors. Keep the AC running in your car and home to help filter out allergens (rather than leaving the windows open).

You can also protect yourself when you need to be outdoors on higher pollen count days by wearing an

DON’T WAIT TO MEDICATE

If you already take allergy medication each fall, make sure not to wait until after your symptoms start. Instead, plan to begin taking your medication about two weeks before your symptoms usually begin for full effectiveness - and keep taking the medication two weeks after the first frost, as your symptoms may linger after most of the pollen is gone.

Unsure exactly when to start taking your medication?

Talk to your allergist for advice on a treatment plan that’s proactive rather than reactive. Then take a simple step like adding a medication reminder to your calendar so you won’t forget.

ADJUST SOME HOUSEHOLD HABITS

Making a few minor changes to your household routine in the fall - or even year-round - can have an impact on your exposure to allergens while you’re at home. Here are some recommendations: • Change your HVAC filter every three months and choose a high-quality filter such as those • with aChange your HVAC filterthe every months MERV rating of 11-13 for bestthree filtration of pollen mold.

- and chooseand a high-quality filter such as those with a MERV for the bestwash filtration of pollen • Leaverating shoesofat11-13 the door - and clothes andimmediately mold. after spending time outdoors.

• • Shower Leave shoes the door - and wash clothes or bathe atatnight to avoid bringing immediately after spending time outdoors. allergens into your bed.

• Shower or bathe at night to avoid bringing • Don’t hang clothes allergens into your bed.or bedding outside to dry after washing.

• Don’t hang clothes or bedding outside to dry after washing.

SEE AN ALLERGIST

Because the environmental conditions that create allergens and your body’s response to them can change over time, it’s a good idea to see your allergist for an updated, personalized treatment plan that can best help you manage your symptoms, no matter the season. Allergists are specially trained to help diagnose and treat your specific allergy and/or asthma symptoms, using the latest testing and treatments to help you get back to enjoying your life.

If you are - or think you might be - one of the over 50 million Americans who suffer from allergies, you can find an allergist in your area by visiting ACAAI.org/ find-an-allergist.

Source: BrandPoint

Whatever happens in our community, we’re here, ready to serve.

Providing Level I trauma care at Ben Taub Hospital for people experiencing the worst day of their lives.

Reaching out to families struggling to find or afford healthy food.

Offering the gold standard in nursing at our Magnet®-recognized Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital.

Treating everyone with respect, compassion and gratitude for giving us the opportunity to care for them, work with them, know them.

You may not know our name. And that’s okay.

YOU’LL KNOW US BY THE WORK WE DO.

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9/1/23 1:39 PM

October 2023 | 19

KNOW the signs RECOGNIZE the patterns END the cycle of DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Knowing the facts about domestic violence, recognizing the predictable patterns and talking about it can help end the cycle of domestic violence and abuse.

If safe, call 1 (800) 799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.hawc.org

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20 | October 2023

Educatin

By d-mars.com News Provider

he so-called wealth gap is the substantial disparity in wealth between white and black families.

According to data from 2021, white families have a median net worth of more than $188k, while black families have a net worth of less than $24k. Furthermore, black families have a median income of under $17,000, but white families have an average income of over $86,000.

Most crucially, white households own 86.8% of the wealth, whereas black families own less than 3%.

How do we increase the black community’s share of wealth? It’s an issue that economists, professors, and other specialists are still grappling with. According to some experts, catching up economically will take 200 years.

However, J.D. Garnier, believes we can close the wealth gap in one generation.

T

EARLY BEGINNINGS

J.D. Garnier began his professional journey as a financial advisor at a young age while growing up in New Orleans, Louisiana. By the time he was 22, he had obtained all necessary licenses and was providing financial planning advice to clients.

At that time, attracting clients was no easy task, as he would only have a handful of attendees at the seminars he hosted on wealth and financial planning.

“There were times I was selling life insurance in the projects of New Orleans to grandmothers on their children and grandchildren’s lives for protection. Business was hard to come by back then,” he said. “I would host seminars on wealth and financial planning and 2-3 people would show up.”

Recognizing the need to enhance his knowledge and skills to compete with more experienced advisors, J.D. Garnier made the decision to pursue a legal education instead of business school. His determination paid off when he was awarded a full scholarship to Southern University Law Center.

Hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans just one week into his first year of law school. Fortunately, Garnier was able to find an apartment in Baton Rouge for his entire family. Despite juggling law school, family, and the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, he finished his first year on the Deans List. J.D. relocated to Houston that summer and enrolled at South Texas College of Law. “When I moved to Houston, I was working full-time for an investment firm during the day and attending law school in the evening.” I was a young man in my twenties, and we were dealing with complicated estate and tax preparation.

While coaching people worth millions of dollars, I was expanding my knowledge base and skill set. I developed relationships with many of these people, and it gave me a true understanding of how the wealthy think and behave.”

He added, “So I go to class at night and have combined meetings with attorneys and CPAs during the day to see how

t h e actual work is done.

No t t o mention, I was being asked to attend these lavish and exclusive events with some of the city’s wealthiest people. It altered my perspective on riches.”

J.D. has been establishing his own client book since graduating from law school, and he is now a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA®), Senior Portfolio Advisor, and Senior Financial Advisor for the Garnier Bradley Group with Merrill Lynch. He deals with clients all around Texas.

When it comes to something of prominence and meaningful moments in life, Garnier says his love for people is what keeps him going. “One of the things I’m most proud of, is that I have worked with every type of race and socioeconomic background of people. I’ve had clients that barely had any money, and I was just trying to help them figure it all out. I’ve also had clients worth hundreds of millions worrying about losing it. I believe those experiences have given me a unique perspective on wealth.”

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October 2023 | 21

ng and Expanding Financial Preparation

for Everyday People As a result, the financial guru has used his knowledge and experience to impact his community. Over the past several years, J.D. has partnered with the NAACP Homes for Houston Initiative to teach financial literacy. In addition, he speaks around the country on topics like ‘closing the wealth gap’ and ‘preserving black wealth.’

“I believe we need to truly understand wealth to obtain it. A mindset-shift on how we view and understand value.

My role is to create a plan that uses all the resources we have available to attain those goals.

My advice becomes more aligned with reaching that result rather than being based on my own market ideas. Having this information also allows me to review and identify any risks that may cause the plan to change. Every investment opportunity has variables to examine when determining whether it is suitable for a person. Time horizon, liquidity, and principal risk are just a few of the considerations to consider while determining how a person should invest.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BEING RICH AND BEING WEALTHY?

I define rich as having an abundance of resources and money. You can become wealthy by going viral.

Wealth is defined as the separation of time and money.

You do not become wealthy unless your income, resources, and value expand without the need for your time. If you earn $1 million per year but work 70 hours per week, you are rich, but not wealthy, because the income ceases the moment you stop working. The more revenue you receive from sources that do not demand your time, or the more the value of your time becomes, the wealthier you become.

WHAT DO WE VALUE? MY GOAL IS TO CHANGE THE WAY WE THINK ABOUT WEALTH.”

It is the ‘mission of wealth’ that has fueled J.D’s passions both professionally, personally, and philanthropically.

His opinions on wealth in the black community are now regarded with the utmost respect around the country.

His team manages over $146M in individual client assets as well as nonprofits and institutional capabilities.

With a focus on business owners and emerging black wealth, Garnier’s future vision is straightforward: how to close the Wealth Gap for communities in all directions.

His professional clientele begins at a minimum of $500,000.

However, the banker provided us with insight into how to create financial prosperity and balance from the ground up.

Here’s what we learned about wealth and financial planning from the Advisor:

different strategies. Then all at once we try to do multiple things like real estate, stock trading, crypto, etc. and we don’t give our full attention to anything. This can seem overwhelming, and it is counterproductive to building wealth when there is no plan.

Individually, those strategies can be helpful and may even make you money, yet when used out of context, they can also present unforeseen risks. AS A RULE, I WOULD SAY THAT

WE SHOULD STRIVE TO SAVE AT LEAST 20% OF OUR INCOME. IF YOU’RE SHORT OF THAT, FIGURE OUT HOW YOU CAN EITHER SPEND LESS, EARN MORE OR A COMBINATION OF THE TWO. That means,

The only way to gain money in this manner is to own The only way gainthese money in this manner is to are if you make $50K, then you should be saving $10K. Your valuable items.

Wetocall things assets, and there savings can be a combination of retirement plan contrivaluable Weassets. call these things assets, onlyown three ways toitems. acquire butions and regular savings or any other option available. andAssets there are only three ways to acquire assets.

1. Buy Once you have a baseline, the numbers work themselves.

2. Create Assets If you save $10K per year at a rate of 8% annually, you 1.

Buy Assets will have over $1M after 27 years. The first question 3. Become an Asset you must ask – what investment options give me the 2. Create Assets opportunity to earn 8%. The answer will determine the 3. Become an Asset appropriate level of risk and should eliminate investment options that would either be too risky or too conservative When you buy assets, you are purchasing something that for your intended goal. has the potential to increase in value. Stocks, bonds, real estate, land, and businesses, among other things. When The second question you will need to ask, is $1M enough? you possess assets, their worth grows without the need for If you are 25 and carry out this plan until you are 52, is your time. As part of our financial plans, we should all be $1M enough to maintain your lifestyle. If not, you have 2 options, save more, or earn a higher rate of return. purchasing assets in some way.

Creating assets is related to company ownership. You are While there is a lot to learn about properly funding your building an asset when you establish a business or build lifestyle, it is never too late to start learning and undera brand. The goal should be to generate enough value in standing now. that business to either sell it on the open market or pass it on to the next generation. In our community, business ownership and entrepreneurship provide a big opportunity.

We are four times more likely as a community to establish a business than any other.

What advice would you give to the average individual for changing and improving their financial situation?

I’d start by asking them what their ultimate financial and life goals are. My initial chat with clients is always about WHAT STRATEGIES CAN WE IMPLEMENT TO INCREASE INCOME planning. It’s critical for me to grasp a person’s wealth pri- AND SAVINGS POTENTIAL? orities, views, and motives. Once I have a thorough awareness we can discuss strategies, resources and capabilities. I would say the strategy depends on the plan. You’ll hear me continue to reinforce planning because I think many times as a community, we get caught up in too many

Please contact Mr. Granier for more information 9595 Six Pines Dr | Suite 8380 | The Woodlands, TX 77380 281.364.2195 | jd.garnier@ml.com

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22 | October 2023 FINANCE

Comerica Bank Promotes Brandon Jones to Senior Vice President, External Affairs By d-mars.com News Provider

omerica Bank has promoted Brandon Jones, Vice President of External Affairs, to Senior Vice President, External Affairs, reporting to Executive Vice President of Corporate Responsibility Wendy Bridges.

In his new role, Jones oversees Comerica’s Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) community engagement function, including External Affairs, Community Affairs and CRA Investments.

“Brandon possesses an authentic passion for serving the community and forge meaningful relationships with community partners,” said Bridges.

“His leadership and experience will allow us to continue identifying new and impactful programs that will strengthen and benefit our local communities for years to come.”

Jones joined Comerica more than a

C

decade ago, serving as a Retail Bank Manager from 2012 through 2017.

He would later move Texas Capital to serve as Assistant Vice President, helping establish banking presence in West Dallas and cultivating community partnerships. Jones returned to Comerica in November 2020 as Regional External Affairs Manager for Texas, Arizona and Florida. In that role, Jones led several important community initiatives that included the launch of Comerica’s gomerica™ mobile community banking center in Florida and the opening of BusinessHQ, Comerica’s latest venture in supporting small businesses by offering collaborative space for community partners and small businesses in the Southern sector of Dallas.

He holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas Southern University and is set to complete his master’s degree in Community Development from the University of New Hampshire in May 2024. Jones is active in the North Texas community, holding board positions with Resource Center Dallas and Texas

Everything You Need to KNOW ABOUT STUDENT LOANS

Health Community Impact Foundation.

He is a graduate of the 10th class of Leadership North Texas, featured in the fifth edition of Who’s Who in Black Dallas and named to this year’s Dallas Business Journal “40 Under 40” list.

Comerica Incorporated (NYSE: CMA) is a financial services company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, and

strategically aligned by three business segments: The Commercial Bank, The Retail Bank and Wealth Management.

Comerica, one of the 25 largest U.S. financial holding companies, focuses on building relationships and helping people and businesses be successful.

Comerica provides more than 400 banking centers across the country with locations in Arizona, California, Florida, Michigan and Texas. Founded 174 years ago in Detroit, Michigan, Comerica continues to expand into new regions, including its Southeast Market, based in North Carolina, and Mountain West Market in Colorado. Comerica has offices in 17 states and services 14 of the 15 largest U.S. metropolitan areas, as well as Canada and Mexico. Comerica reported total assets of $90.8 billion at June 30, 2023. Learn more about how Comerica is raising expectations of what a bank can be by visiting www.comerica. com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

organizations. One easy one to apply for is the College Ave $1,000 monthly scholarship sweepstakes.

If you do need to borrow, turn to federal student loans in the student’s name first, which generally offer the lowest rates and come with additional benefits. They don’t depend on credit scores, and offer longer deferments and forbearances, income-driven repayment plans and student loan forgiveness.

usually borrow up to the total cost of attendance. However, borrowing less than the maximum can help you save overtime. A simple rule of thumb you can use to determine how much student loan debt you can afford: If total student loan debt at graduation, including federal and private loans, is less than the students annual starting salary, you can likely repay the loans in 10 years or less.

Repayment: Look for repayment f lexibility to match your needs.

For example, College Ave Student Loans offers 5-, 8-, 10- and 15-year repayment options, along with the choice of deferring payments until after graduation or beginning payments right away. No matter what option you select, understand the terms.

Private loans for college can play an important role in financing your education. By researching your financial aid options, applying for scholarships, and comparing private student loan options, you can minimize college costs, so you can better manage your finances after you graduate.

For more resources, including an online student loan calculator, and to learn more about paying for college, visit CollegeAve.com.

PRIVATE STUDENT LOANS

families value the investment in higher education, says Angela Colatriano, chief News Provider marketing officer of College Ave. ore American families are To borrow smart for college this, fall, borrowing for college. At the consider these tips and insights: same time, merit aid and the use of personal income and savings is falling.

EXHAUST ALL OPTIONS Thats according to an annual College Ave Student Loans survey of college Before turning to private student loans, students at four-year universities, first exhaust other sources of financial conducted with Barnes & Noble aid. Complete and submit the Free College Insights. The survey also found Application for Federal Student Aid to college affordability is top-of-mind for be considered for grants, scholarships, most students (57%). Despite financial work-study programs and federal concerns, 81% of students report that a student loans. If your selected school college degree is crucial for their future. is one of the 400 institutions that requires the CSS profile, submit that The mix of methods that families use to too to qualify for institutional aid. pay for college has shifted, however one Finally, search for private scholarships thing remains consistent: students and offered by companies and non-profit By d-mars.com

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Federal student loans have annual and aggregate loan limits. If you find yourself needing to borrow parent or private loans to cover remaining costs, consider these factors: Costs: Compare the costs of different loans by looking at the actual interest rate you’ll be charged, not the lowest advertised rate. Understand the difference between variable and fixed interest rates, and be aware of any fees and available discounts, such as those offered for using autopay.

Cosigners: A creditworthy cosigner doesn’t just increase the odds of loan approval, even if the student can qualify on their own, cosigning may yield a lower interest rate, reducing the overall cost of the loan.

Total Debt: Borrow only what you need. With private loans, you can

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Source: StatePoint

October 2023 | 23

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The University of Houston continues to grow not just in student population but also in the construction of new buildings such as the John M. O’ Quinn Law Building and Tilman J Fertitta Family College of Medicine.

UH’s facilities growth includes the continuous need to procure a variety of non-construction goods and services, all of which undergirds UH’s recognition as an institutional “Powerhouse.”

STAY INFORMED

BE A PART OF THE COUGAR VILLAGE

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24 | October 2023 REAL ESTATE

Mortgage preapproval is A MUST before an offer

By Felicia Guidry News Provider

efore even starting to search for your dream home, get pre-approved or pre-qualified for a mortgage to know your limits and the best type of financing available.

With the current limited supply of homes on the market and the multiple offers many properties draw, sellers may not consider an offer without

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home loan. However, it’s important to know that all information submitted during pre-qualification is subject to verification when your actual loan application is submitted. There is no guarantee that you will receive a home loan until your financial situation is actually verified.

Being pre-approved for a loan typically means that the lender has gone one step further and verified your financial situation. When you get pre-approved, you will complete a mortgage loan application and may have to pay an application fee. Your lender will commit in writing to fund your loan, but only after an extensive examination of your financial situation and pending a successful appraisal of the home and a few other conditions.

Being pre-approved for a mortgage loan doesn’t mean you are borrowing the money or that you are obligated to.

It just means the lender must stand behind his written commitment to fund pre-approval or pre-qualification, so the specified amount unless something be prepared! Pre-qualification and changes with your situation. Think about how attractive your offer will pre-approval mean different things.

To get pre-qualified for a mortgage be to the seller if you submit it with a loan, you provide a lender your ap- letter pre-approving you for the loan. proximate income, current debts and Some situations could cause a lender any important details from your credit to withdraw from funding a loan even history. The lender will then use these after a pre-approval letter is issued. If details to determine how much you your credit situation changes between may be eligible to borrow. You may the time the pre-approval letter is isreceive a Conditional Qualification sued and the loan’s funding, then the Letter from the lender, which deter- lender could change the interest rate mines your likelihood of getting a or even deny the loan application. So,

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while you’re buying a house, it’s important not to apply for credit cards or other loans that could change your credit situation.

The best way to check out what a lender is going to see in your credit history is to get a copy of your credit report.

This document lists your financial history, including total debt and whether you pay your bills on time. Regularly checking your credit report is the best way to spot identity theft, credit report errors or other blemishes that could affect your ability to buy a home.

By law, you are entitled to one free credit report every year from each of the three credit-reporting bureaus – Experian, Equifax and Transunion.

By taking steps to secure your finances, you increase your ability to get pre-approved for a home loan. And this will put you one step closer to being in the home you dream about for you and your family.

For more information about buying and selling property in the Houston area or anywhere in Texas, I encourage you to visit HAR.com.

Felicia Guidry is 2023-24 President of the Houston Black Real Estate Association (HBREA).

Source: HBREA

October 2023 | 25

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26 | October 2023 REAL ESTATE

MAKING A DIFFERENCE: Eco-Friendly Tips for Every Room in Your Home By d-mars.com News Provider

ost recent data shows that in the past five years, 85% of people have shifted their behavior to be more eco-conscious and have started thinking sustainably when making purchases*. For many, the home is a natural place to start incorporating environmentally friendly products and practices.

“From utilizing green building products to incorporating high-efficiency technology, implementing more eco-friendly practices and products at home is a stepping stone towards living a more sustainable lifestyle,” said Judd Larned, President of Culligan Water. “Start with your water. Making eco-friendly choices on how you consume and treat your home’s water can have a big impact.”

Drinking water from your home tap is a great way to help the environment. Every year, the overuse of single-use plastic bottles contributes to pollution, yet many people prefer the taste and quality of bottled water over tap water in their homes. By installing a water treatment solution, such as a reverse osmosis system, homeowners can get cleaner, filtered water directly from the tap and reduce their use of single serve bottled water. The Culligan Aquasential® Smart Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water System offers 12 different filter options and is certified for the reduction of 59 contaminants which include 15 emerging contaminants including lead, arsenic, pharmaceuticals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and PFOA/PFOS. For a greener solution to traditional water softening, a high-efficiency water softener, like the Aquasential Smart High-Efficiency Water Softener, is designed to minimize water and salt usage while effectively softening the water.

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By selecting a high-efficiency softener, you can reduce water and salt usage. Both the RO and softener also offer a smart device app that gives users intuitive control over each system with water alerts, maintenance needs, and tools that track water usage and consumption at your fingertips. You’ll have real-time data to help manage water usage in your home.

Going beyond your water, here are additional tips for creating a more environmentally friendly home: • Choose green décor. A simple way to go green with your home is to choose environmentally friendly décor. While natural stones and marbles are on trend, their use is costly to the environment. Instead, homeowners can use man-made materials that mimic the look of natural materials. Using composite materials made from recycled content or natural materials that are sustainably sourced for décor, cabinets, fixtures and countertops is a great way to get the latest trends in home décor without negatively impacting the environment.

• Opt for energy-efficient appliances. When purchasing new appliances, opt for those with high energy-efficiency ratings. Energy-efficient appliances are designed to accomplish the same tasks with less power, which reduces the need for additional power plants and decreases the extraction of natural resources such as coal, natural gas and oil. By conserving these resources, we can preserve ecosystems, protect habitats and minimize the environmental damage caused by their extraction. On appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers and laundry machines, look for ENERGY STAR certified products, which meet strict energy-saving standards.

• Use smart technology to conserve energy. Today, smart home technology is available to help homeowners control and track their energy usage, resulting in improved conservation as well as lower utility bills on the home front. Smart thermostats and lighting, as well as home automation systems, allow you to optimize heating and cooling or create energy-saving

routines and schedules whether you’re home or away. Use energy monitoring systems to track usage patterns, identify energy-hungry appliances, and provide insights on how to optimize energy efficiency.

• Recycle. Recycling is one of the most simple and wellknown ways to go green at home as it conserves resources, reduces landfill waste, and minimizes the environmental impact of manufacturing new products. Set up a recycling system in your home to separate recyclable materials from general waste. Identify local recycling centers or programs that accept different types of recyclables and ensure proper disposal. Consider going beyond traditional efforts by buying products made from recycled material or from companies dedicated to sustainability.

By implementing these tips, homeowners can contribute to a more sustainable future while creating a healthier and more cost-effective living environment. For more information on in-home water treatment solutions, visit www.culligan.com.

According to an October 2021 Global Sustainability survey conducted by Simon-Kucher & Partners.

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Source: BrandPoint

October 2023 | 27

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28 | October 2023 TRAVEL

Most booked experience: Small-Group Wine Tasting Experience in the Tuscan Countryside For those staying stateside, the ever-popular Las Vegas, New York City, and Orlando round out the top three most popular destinations Americans will visit, respectively. As U.S. travelers attempt to stretch out their summers, enjoying warmth and sunshine past Labor Day, smaller Sun Belt destinations are seeing increased interest. Below are the top trending domestic destinations for Americans this fall on Tripadvisor, based on places with the greatest year-over-year growth.

TRIPADVISOR’S FALL FIND CITY BREAKS AND SOLO TRIPS

HOT THIS SEASON

• Little Torch Key, Florida • Indian Rocks Beach, Florida • Miami Springs, Florida • Hawley, Pennsylvania • Carefree, Arizona • Reno, Nevada • Cape Canaveral, Florida • Holmes Beach, Florida • Rutherford, California • Indio, California Solo travel on the rise

try more local tours and activities, booking new and elevated ways to experience classic attractions (as shown below).

By d-mars.com News Provider

ripadvisor’s Seasonal Travel Index Outlines Traveler Sentiment and Insights for Australia, Japan, Singapore, United Kingdom and United States This Autumn Tripadvisor, the world’s largest travel guidance platform, today released the next in its Seasonal Travel Index series, revealing data and trends about what to expect for travel this fall.

Although the popular summer vacation season is ending, travel doesn’t appear to be fading with it: 74% of American travelers surveyed report they will travel this fall, well above the 61% planning to travel at the same time last year. Similarly, over half (52%) plan to travel more than they did last fall and only 3% will travel Iess.

On trend with increased travel is a rise in international trips. While 65% of U.S. travelers will stay domestic this fall, the remaining travelers set their sights on global destinations: more than a quarter (27%) will travel both internationally and domestically, and nearly one in ten (8%) have fully prioritized international travel over domestic this season. Notably, the share of international travel has recently surpassed pre-pandemic levels, a trend that’s been gradually rising over the past two years.

Even for those staying in the U.S., the vast majority (80%) plan to travel over four hours from their home.

Same cities, new ways to explore City breaks are most popular with travelers this fall, as familiar favorites in Europe and Mexico continue to shine. In fact, most travelers (75%) plan to return to a destination they’ve visited before, as repeat destinations can give travelers a greater sense of security. That said, people want to explore these destinations in more depth, evidenced by the fact that “culture and sightseeing” is the number one trip type for Americans this fall, and interest in museums and cultural sites is on the rise. Plus, Tripadvisor first-party data indicates that travelers are keen to

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Most Popular International Destinations for Americans This Fall • Paris, France Most booked experience: Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Dinner & Sightseeing Cruise • Cancun, Mexico Most booked experience: Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour • Rome, Italy Most booked experience: Skip-the-Line Group Tour of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica • London, United Kingdom Most booked experience: Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London • Punta Cana, Dominican Republic Most booked experience: Half-Day Adventure: 4x4 ATV, Water Cave and Dominican Culture at Punta Cana • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Most booked experience: Sunset Cruise with Open bar and Snacks In Cabo San Lucas • Playa del Carmen, Mexico Most booked experience: Tulum Ruins, Turtles in Akumal and Cenote tour • Barcelona, Spain Most booked experience: Fast Track Sagrada Familia Guided Tour • Palm - Eagle Beach, Aruba Most booked experience: Aruba Pub Krawl Tour • Florence, Italy

Over one-quarter (26%) of American travelers surveyed will take a solo trip this autumn. This is well above the global total of 15% as well the 17% who reported traveling solo last fall. While the reasons behind this trend may vary, it is a sign that travelers are more comfortable to journey alone and want to fully immerse themselves in the local culture.

For solo explorers looking for great places to visit, Tripadvisor has recent guides on the best places to travel solo in the world, as well as across the U.S. Americans most excited about their trips When asked how they feel about their upcoming trip, 78% of Americans reported being excited and 70% responded “happy,” both being well above global totals of 64% and 60%, respectively, for these positive emotions.

This is despite the fact that their trips will be more modest than their international counterparts: Americans are most likely to take trips 2-4 nights in length, well below totals of other countries who will average 5+ nights. Notably, Boomers are more likely to take 5+ day trips compared to other age groups. Americans also over-index in reporting to stay in vacation rentals and with friends and family (versus hotels) and are more likely to be flexible when choosing a destination (60%) than the global population of respondents (48%).

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October 2023 | 29 TRAVEL

content with these six expert-backed tips from the pet-loving professionals at Mars. We even created a helpful timeline, so you know where to start. Bark voyage!

BEFORE YOU BOOK: Find a pet-friendly home away from home

It’s easier than ever to find accommodations that will cater to your pet’s vacation wish list - so find the best.

Look for hotels and resorts like the more than 5,000 Hilton pet-friendly hotels across the U.S. and Canada that offer unique pet-pampering amenities to ensure their vacay is as luxurious as yours. Hilton partners with Mars to offer pet-owning guests extra peace of mind with access to expert-sourced pet health, wellness, and behavioral support resources courtesy of the Mars Pet On-Demand program.

TRAVELING WITH PETS?

A FEW MONTHS BEFORE: Practice makes perfect

HERE’S HOW TO MAKE YOUR GETAWAY A BARKING GOOD TIME By d-mars.com News Provider

ars, Incorporated and its family of brands for people and pets is in the business of helping create long-term happiness for you and your furry friends. From packing your pet’s favorite food to finding high-quality veterinary care, here’s how to make taking your best friend on the road safer and easier this summer.

A survey from CESAR®, proudly part of the Mars family of brands, found that taking our dogs to work can provide mood-boosting benefits like increasing happiness (58%) and relieving anxiety or stress (57%).

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But do those benefits extend to taking your pet along on vacation?

Traveling with our dogs and cats is a tempting idea: It means we get more quality time together, can make amazing memories with them, AND we don’t have to worry about leaving them behind.

But just like your own vacation planning, travel with pets should come with a few considerations and careful preparation. While you will undoubtedly create unforgettable memories with your pet, there is always a chance pets might get hurt or sick, be uncomfortable or even get distressed in unfamiliar surroundings.

Thankfully, you can prep for travel that helps keep everyone (two- and four-legged friends included)

We all can feel out of place when we’re away from home. Same goes for pets. They might face new situations they aren’t familiar with, like taking elevators or being on loud city streets. As much as possible, practice new situations in advance to help ease transitions. Before hitting the road, make sure your pet is comfortable in the car. Carefully observe them and consult your veterinarian on safe options if they show any signs of motion sickness, anxiety or discomfort, which can include gagging, vomiting, drooling and excessive panting. If you’re planning to take your pet on a plane, talk to your veterinary team about behavior, safety and health concerns, so they can advise on a tailored solution for your pet.

Also speak with your veterinarian about whether a health certificate might be needed for your pet - for traveling, boarding or staying in hotels.

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OCTOBER 14 - 15 2023 SATURDAY & SUNDAY 10 AM TO 6 PM FEATURED ARTIST MICHELLE MCDOWELL SMITH n

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TICKETS ON SALE NOW www.bayoucityartfestival.com

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Source: BrandPoint

30 | October 2023 RECIPE OF THE MONTH

SKILLET ENCHILADA TIPS FOR VEGETARIANS These unusual enchiladas will have your family and guests begging for more whether they are served on Meatless Monday or as part of your regular vegetarian supper.

VEGAN SKILLET

Enchiladas

INGREDIENTS 1 tablespoon canola oil 1 medium onion, chopped 1 medium sweet red pepper, chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained tap here 1 can (10 ounces) enchilada sauce 1 cup frozen corn 2 teaspoons chili powder 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/8 teaspoon pepper 8 corn tortillas (6 inches), cut into 1/2-inch strips 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend

OPTIONAL Chopped fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, sliced radishes, sour cream and lime wedges

HOW LONG DO VEGETARIAN ENCHILADAS KEEP FRESH?

In the refrigerator, these vegetarian enchiladas keep for approximately two to three days. You may freeze them in an airtight jar for up to 2-3 months if you want to enjoy this vegetarian meal longer. To ensure that this wonderful vegetarian food tastes just as good after being frozen, use the following advice.

WHAT KIND OF TORTILLAS SHOULD I PURCHASE?

Corn tortillas work best for these enchiladas because they don’t get as soggy as flour tortillas do.

NUTRITIONAL DATA 1-1/2 cups: 307 calories, 14g of fat (5g of it saturated), 25mg of cholesterol, 839mg of sodium, 33g of carbohydrates (7g of fiber, 5g of sugars), and 14g of protein.

DIRECTIONS 400° oven preheat. A 10-inch cast-iron skillet or other ovenproof skillet heated with oil over medium-high heat. Cook and toss the onion and pepper for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they are soft.

For an additional minute, add the garlic. Add the beans, enchilada sauce, corn, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Add tortilla strips and stir.

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up to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes or until tortilla strips are tender. grate some cheese on top. Bake uncovered for 3 to 5 minutes, or until cheese is melted and sauce is bubbling. Add alternative items for garnish as desired.

October 2023 | 31

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