“HOLD FAST TO DREAMS, FOR IF DREAMS DIE, LIFE IS A BROKEN WINGED BIRD THAT CANNOT FLY.”
– Langston Hughes
This month’s issue of the d-mars.com Business Journal highlights the legacy, innovation and growth of Black-owned businesses in the Houston community.
d-mars.com had the pleasure of interviewing A-Rocket Moving & Storage, Inc. president and CEO, DeAndre Sam. Having started with only three employees and a van, DeAndre shared the inspiring story of how his parents Herbert and Irlene’s dream of owning their own business has now blossomed into a company that currently operates as a complete full-service mover with an office support staff of 15 employees and a moving staff of 75 full-time and 100 part-time movers 66 years later. DeAndre has successfully carried the mantle of his parents’ legacy for 30 years.
Since 1959, A-Rocket Moving & Storage, Inc. has been a trusted business and pillar in Houston’s inner-city community. The company pro-
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vides top-quality relocation, storage and logistics services to corporate, industrial and government clientele. Known for handling services for some of the biggest names and entities in the city, A-Rocket has a reputation for being reliable, professional and making their customers number one. The company’s mission to generate repeat business, deliver great customer service and gain referrals has contributed greatly to its longevity and success.
In addition to the Sam family’s story, we are highlighting the importance of heart health, the sustaining power of self-love, how homeowners can dodge fraudsters when they’re in financial stress, honoring our past this Black History Month and shaping our future, and so much more.
As always, we are thankful for your continued support. Happy Black History Month!
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BUSINESS
4 LinkedIn’s Top 3 Hiring Tips for Small Businesses in 2025
4 Did You Know? Nancy LeftenantColon
5 Attacks Against DE&I Heighten, but Some Businesses Prove Inclusion Remains Good COMMUNITY
6 Black History Month: Honoring Our Past, Shaping Our Future EDUCATION & CAREER
7 Old Folks Saying: “You can’t put an old head on young shoulders.”
8 From Career to Classroom: 6 Strategies for Success
9 Short-Term Credentials Offer Our Youth the Chance to Beceome Employable, Earn Higher Wages
10 Houston ISD Celebrates 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress Results REAL ESTATE
11 How Homeowners Can Dodge Fraudsters When in Financial Crisis HEALTH & WELLNESS
13 Protecting Your Child from Illness in Winter Months
13 How to Make a Difference When it Comes to Heart Health
14 The Sustaining Power of Self-Love
16 Shortness of Breath Not Going Away? Ask Your Doctor for a Blood Test
16 Unleash Your Creativity in the Kitchen and Eat Healthier This Year
18 New Research Shows African Americans Face Sharply Higher Dementia Risks
18 Researchers Launch $3.7M Study on How Structural Racism Accelerates Aging in Black Americans
19 New American Heart Association Report Reveals Alarming Inequities in Heart Health by Race and Gender FINANCE
22 60% of Americans Feel Confident About Reaching their Financial Goals
23 Top Scams to Watch Out for This Tax Season TECHNOLOGY
25 5 Ways AI is Creating a Smarter Smartphone TRAVEL
26 Deadly Midair Collision Near Reagan National Sparks Questions; Travel Tips as You Navigate Through Anxiety, Uncertainty
RECIPE OF THE MONTH
30 Recipe of the Month: Red Velvet Cheesecake
• Community Weekly Report
• Black Pages Online Expert Directory
• Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs
• Top 30 Influential Women of Houston
• Business Connection
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Printing
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• Public Relations • Social Media
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Promotional Marketing
LinkedIn’s Top 3 Hiring Tips for Small Businesses in 2025
f you're a small business owner, you may be looking for top talent in the new year. A new survey by LinkedIn finds 66% of small businesses in the U.S. are planning to hire more in 2025 than they did in 2024. It signals good news for the market, and for your business, but with an increase in hiring comes increased challenges.
That's because hiring the perfect fit for a small company is crucial and time-consuming. It's not just about finding the right skills and experience for the job, but culture fit, too. It takes time to source candidates, sift through resumes, schedule and conduct interviews, and handle all hiring-related tasks, on top of managing the day-to-day demands. As a small business owner, you know that on any given day, you can be an operations manager, accountant, marketing pro and one-person HR department all rolled into one.
"We know every hire a small business makes is critical to their business goals," says LinkedIn's Director of Product Management, Andrew Chimka. "They need simple, time-saving solutions that are intuitive to use and help them find qualified candidates fast, and with confidence."
Here are LinkedIn's top tips to help small businesses find the right candidate so they can focus on doing what they love most: growing their business.
Showcase what makes your company unique
Showcasing your brand is critical to attracting top talent. Emphasize why job seekers should choose to work for you by highlighting your unique company culture, flexible work hours, or perks, like employee discounts. You know what makes your company a great place to work. Potential hires need to know it too.
Demonstrating benefits like skills development opportunities or online learning programs will also help hirers attract candidates in the new year. New LinkedIn data finds opportunities to learn new, in-demand skills is the #1 factor professionals say will help them grow in their careers.
Consider a skills-based hiring approach
Today, the skills needed to do many jobs are changing. More businesses are recognizing the need to adopt a skills-based hiring approach: hiring for skills and abilities, not only degrees and past job titles.
A skills-based approach allows you to widen your pool of applicants to include candidates that may have slipped under the radar due to factors like whether they have a degree. This allows you to find new, untapped talent, lessening the need to compete with other companies for the same candidates.
Taking a holistic approach to skills by hiring for technical expertise and soft skills, such as communication and collaboration, also enables small businesses to identify well-rounded candidates who can support various business needs.
Just because the size of a business is small, doesn't mean its talent pool needs to be.
Use new LinkedIn AI hiring tools to help post a job and hire!
LinkedIn finds that 72% of hirers at small businesses in the U.S. say they are spending up to 15 hours a week just sifting through applications. That's a lot of time not devoted to growing and running the business.
This is where AI can come in - as a tool to take on some of the heavy lifting that comes with hiring the right candidate.
LinkedIn is launching an AI assistant within LinkedIn Jobs, built on its unique professional platform insights of over 1 billion members, 69 million companies and 41,000 skills. Hirers can get help with tedious hiring tasks using the AI assistant, such as drafting job descriptions, posting a job, identifying qualified candidates and inviting them to apply.
The AI assistant then helps evaluate applicants based on the hirer's qualifications and creates a shortlist of the most qualified candidates for the hirer to review so they can make the right hire with confidence. Other small businesses are already using it today.
In today's fast-changing work landscape, small businesses face numerous challenges - but hiring shouldn't be one of them. By leveraging innovative strategies to attract top talent, from highlighting your brand to using new AI tools, your small business will be better positioned to thrive in 2025.
Source: Brandpoint (Edited by d-mars.com)
Did You Know?
Nancy Leftenant-Colon was the first Black woman to join the U.S. Army Nurse Corps after the military was desegregated in the 1940s. Known for quietly breaking barriers during her remarkable military career, Leftenant-Colon enjoyed a legacy of resilience, excellence, and service. Despite facing racial discrimination, Leftenant-Colon pursued her passion for nursing, graduating from Lincoln School of Nursing in 1941.
When she initially sought to join the Armed Forces, she was denied due to her race. Undeterred, she persisted and was accepted as a reservist into the Army Nurse Corps in January 1945, becoming a Second Lieutenant and serving at Fort Devens, Massachusetts, treating wounded soldiers from World War II.
Photo Credit: NNPA Newswire
By d-mars.com
News Provider
Attacks Against DE&I Heighten,
But Some Businesses Prove Inclusion REMAINS GOOD.
By Stacy M. Brown
News Provider
nder President Donald Trump’s Project 2025, the administration has launched an unprecedented effort to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) programs. Federal agencies are now prohibited from observing Black History Month and employees involved in DE&I initiatives have been terminated. Critics argue these measures represent a full-on attack on marginalized communities and signal a clear directive for corporations to follow suit. Trump’s administration, which has no diversity in its ranks, has been accused of setting a dangerous precedent.
Some companies, however, remain committed to their DE&I efforts. Organizations like Costco, JPMorgan Chase, Delta Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Apple continue to view diversity as a cornerstone of their workforce strategies, refusing to back down, despite mounting pressure from conservatives and the White House.
Corporations Holding the Line
Costco’s board of directors recently rejected the National Center for Public Policy Research (NCPPR) proposal that sought to force the company to publish risks associated with its DE&I programs or eliminate them entirely. The board reaffirmed the company’s commitment to inclusion ahead of a January 23 shareholder vote.
“Our success at Costco Wholesale has been built on service to our critical stakeholders: employees, members, and suppliers,” the board said in a statement reported by Forbes. “Our efforts around diversity, equity, and inclusion follow our code of ethics. These efforts remind and reinforce with everyone at our company the importance of creating opportunities for all.”
JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon has also resisted calls to retreat from diversity programs.
“ We will continue to reach out to the Black community, the Hispanic community, the veterans community, and LGBTQ. We have teams with second chance initiatives — governors in blue states and red states like what we do,” Dimon said in an interview with CNBC.
Apple’s leadership has similarly rejected proposals to scale back DE&I, labeling such measures as attempts to “micromanage” the company’s operations. The board stated, “The proposal is unnecessary as Apple already has a well-established compliance program,” as reported by Tech Xplore.
Walmart, by contrast, joined corporations like Meta, McDonald’s, Ford Motor Co., and Molson Coors in rolling back its DE&I initiatives. In response, long-term shareholders representing $266 billion in funds wrote a letter to CEO Doug McMillon on January 14 expressing their disappointment.
“Seeing the company retreat from its stated values and the business opportunities associated with a diverse and inclusive workforce is very disheartening,” the letter, organized by the Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility, stated.
Caroline Boden of Mercy Investment Services, a signatory of the letter, added, “DEI initiatives aren’t just ‘nice to have,’ they are essential to breaking down systemic inequities hindering our economy and preventing society from fully thriving. Inequity is bad for business and, ultimately, investors.”
A coalition of 14 attorneys general, including Maryland’s Anthony G. Brown, also sent Walmart a letter urging reconsideration. Speaking to CBS News, Brown said, “When major companies roll back their commitments to these efforts, they signal to smaller businesses that it is acceptable to do the same, creating a ripple effect that inflicts lasting harm across our State and nation.”
Advocates Warn of Long-Term Consequences
Leaders in DE&I initiatives continue challenging corporate rollbacks, warning of the harm such decisions could cause. Tinisha Bookhart, co-founder and director of IT and DE&I at Primary Talent Partners, described the move to abandon diversity programs as deeply troubling. “When implemented correctly, DE&I solutions aim to provide opportunities to qualified individuals who, due to conscious or unconscious bias, might not otherwise have them. Abandoning DE&I altogether is a grave misstep that only serves to perpetuate existing disparities in the workforce,” she said.
In an interview with CWS 3.0, Omni Inclusive CEO Perry Charlton said corporations like Costco and Apple serve as examples of why DE&I matters.
“Diversity in the contingent workforce is not just a moral imperative — it’s an essential driver of innovation, growth, and long-term success. Abandoning these efforts now undermines progress and jeopardizes the future of equitable work environments,” Charlton said.
Source: NNPA Newswire
Photo Credit: Wikimedia via NNPA Newswire
By Dawn Paul a.k.a. The Dr. Dawn® Contributing Writer
Black History Month is a time to honor the progress our ancestors fought tirelessly to achieve and the legacy we are entrusted to continue. Their courage and sacrifices paved the way for opportunities we benefit from today. However, the work is far from finished. With persistent challenges still impacting our communities, we are responsible for taking action, striving for change, and advancing the fight for equality. In the words of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”
The Journey to Black History Month
Honoring Our Past, Shaping Our Future and Answering the Call for Change
It all started back in 1915, 50 years after slavery was abolished, when historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent Blacks established “Negro History Week.” That week eventually grew into what we now celebrate every February as Black History Month. And why February? It was chosen because it aligns with the birthdays of two key abolitionists, President Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.
Keeping Our Culture Alive Starts with Us
Loving our culture and rich history means we respect it and deeply desire to preserve it for future generations. The key is to be intentional in our actions.
Think about where you spend your money and who you support. Choosing Black-owned businesses uplifts our community, contributing to its lasting economic strength. You can also organize or participate in local events, discussions, or educational programs to keep conversations and awareness alive. Consider volunteering or making a financial contribution (after doing your research) to organizations that promote cultural education.
Our young people are hungry for knowledge. Share your story by speaking at an HBCU or a local school. Support literacy programs in your area, and introduce students to books written by Black authors. Also, ensure you purchase these books for your children.
Here are some other creative ways to celebrate and preserve our culture: Think beyond Disney. Take your family to the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
When injustices affecting our community make headlines, use those moments to have thoughtful, age-appropriate discussions about our history and present-day struggles with your kids or teens.
Host regular movie nights at home or in your church, featuring films by Black filmmakers. Start a family or friends’ game night with card and board games made by Black-owned brands. Check out options on sites like PlayBlackWallStreet.com or Sacrd.co.
Launch a book club focused on works by Black authors. Invite non-Black friends too— sharing our stories is a meaningful way to help them understand why our culture matters so deeply to us.
Dedicate time to learning about influential figures in Black history that you may not have heard of before.
Bring our culture into your workplace. Consider starting a regular meetup for African American employees to support, uplift, and discuss our culture. Use your position to foster
a stronger, more inclusive environment that benefits not just us, but the entire company.
These ideas aren’t just for February—incorporate them into your routine year-round.
The Fight Isn't Over
We can’t get comfortable, as even today, our communities continue to grapple with serious attacks against our people, like police brutality, the erasure of Black history in schools, and harmful political agendas.
George Floyd’s murder in 2020 at the hands of Derek Chauvin, a white Minneapolis police officer, sparked the largest racial justice protests in the U.S. since the Civil Rights Movement. However, the problem of law enforcement's abuse of power continues to impact Black lives around the country. In 2023, Tyre Nichols, a Black man, died after being brutally beaten by five Black police officers in Memphis. In 2024, six former Mississippi officers were sentenced for torturing and abusing two Black men. While some perpetrators are being held accountable, policing as a whole still needs major reform. Recent data shows that Black Americans continue to experience fatal police shootings at significantly higher rates than any other group.
On top of that, Black history is under attack in schools across the country. Since 2021, at least 18 states have banned or restricted teaching about race and gender. Florida’s governor, Ron DeSantis, made headlines for stopping public schools from participating in a pilot of the College Board’s AP African American Studies course. Texas, meanwhile, has shifted how it teaches U.S. history. The state passed legislation in 2021 making it illegal for schools to teach slavery and racism as part of the “true founding” of the country. Now, the law prompts Texas schools to teach children that slavery and racism are “deviations from, betrayals of, or failures to live up to the authentic founding principles of the United States, which include liberty and equality.” This is why it’s so important for us to make sure our children—and all children—know the truth about Black history, no matter what’s happening in classrooms.
And politically, the Texas House recently banned minority-party members from leading committees, sidelining diverse voices in leadership. On the federal level, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs are in jeopardy after President Trump’s executive order to halt them. Opponents of DEI claim it discriminates against white Americans, but supporters argue that DEI initiatives have been unfairly politicized and misunderstood. The Trump administration’s decision is likely to spark legal battles.
This month, we celebrate Black excellence—honoring our past, appreciating the present, and building a stronger future. Ongoing challenges in policing, education, and politics highlight the urgent need for unity and actionable progress. Let's carry this energy beyond February and continue protecting and uplifting our culture all year long. Happy Black History Month! Much love! Stay blessed!
Source(s): Governing.com, Newyorker.com, History.com, ASALH.org, PBS, United States Department of Justice, CBS News, CNN, Statista, Education Week®, Texas Tribune, FOX 4 News
Dawn Paul, also known as The Dr. Dawn®, is an award-winning media personality, public speaker, certified life coach, author, and entrepreneur. She has extensive experience in writing, reporting, and editing for the Black press.
“YOU CAN’T PUT AN OLD HEAD ON YOUNG SHOULDERS.”
THIS SAYING IMPLIES THAT YOU CAN’T EXPECT A YOUNG PERSON TO THINK OR ACT LIKE SOMEONE WHO HAS EXPERIENCED MORE. WISDOM AND MATURITY TYPICALLY COME WITH AGE AND TIME.
Keith J. Davis Jr., Owner
6 Strategies for Success
By
owadays, "back-to-school" season can be anytime, especially with the rise of students - specifically working adults - taking up opportunities to pursue new skills on their own time.
For working adults, this leap from career back to a classroom - whether online or in-person - can be daunting, especially if they've been out of school for a long period of time. Luckily, there are several simple strategies to help reduce anxiety about becoming a student again. Read on for important tips to help you succeed!
1. Find new opportunities for growth.
Have a few extra hours a week? Consider taking some courses to sharpen your skills and stay current with your career. There are numerous online programs designed specifically for adult learners that cater to your unique learning needs and provide electives that can help you potentially expand your career aspirations. If you're still not sure where to start, do some research online. There are several programs that provide online courses to explore new subjects.
2. Choose a flexible program that works for you.
Fortunately, online learning platforms offer a lot of flexibility, compared to on-campus programs. You can complete coursework on your own schedule, whether that's first thing in the morning, during a quiet afternoon or in the late hours when everyone else is sleeping.
3. Seek out affordable learning.
If you're employed, check to see if your employer has a formal education benefits program or, at a very minimum, offers discounts on select partner schools. Taking general education courses online at an affordable institution may also help you save
money. You can then transfer these courses to your chosen college or university to bring down the cost of college. Be sure to check with your (potential) school's advisor about the credit transfer policy as well. If you’re someone who took AP courses in high school and received credit for those courses, you may be able to save more money if the credits are transferable.
4. Manage your time.
The ability to manage your time wisely can contribute to your overall success, especially if you're a learner with full-time employment or family care commitments. Safeguard your time for learning by setting specific goals and schedules, creating calendars for deadlines, and asking for help if you're feeling overwhelmed. For example, consider letting your employer know you are utilizing their education program, and ask if they can allow you greater flexibility to manage both work and school.
5. Develop strong study habits.
It's important to remember that an all-nighter study session isn't the most conducive strategy for understanding and retaining your coursework knowledge. Learn about proven study methods and think about utilizing tools like flashcards, practice tests, homework assignments and developing your own study guides to help foster continuous learning - resulting in higher performance!
6. Practice self-care.
Test-taking can be stressful for everyone, even if you know the material. Practicing self-care, such as getting a good night's sleep, finding a space with minimal distractions to take the exam, eating a good breakfast, and giving your brain a break with a relaxing hobby can minimize nervousness and garner greater success.
It's never too late for your own back-to-school season. Practicing these adult learner strategies can help you succeed in opening new doors for your personal and professional growth.
Source: Brandpoint (Edited by d-mars.com)
d-mars.com News Provider
Short-Term Credentials Offer Youth Chance to Become Employable, Earn Higher Wages
Donald Sparks
Last year, I returned to my hometown of Houston after departing 36 years ago to join the U.S. Army. Upon retiring in 2018, I resided in San Antonio, and I never imagined living back in the city which I proudly represented while living both abroad and in America.
The decision to come home was because of an employment opportunity, which would provide personal gratification to something I’m very passionate about – education. Like many people I grew up with in Third Ward and Sunnyside, I had a mother who was a strict disciplinarian when it came to making good grades in school. I had “bet not” bring home a bad report card, unless I wanted to deal with the painful ramifications of a torn behind.
In my current role serving as the communications director for Houston Community College’s Central Campus (which also includes our South Campus location off Airport Boulevard), I get to go out in the communities I grew up in and preach the gospel of pursuing one’s passion through education.
Whether it’s attending City of Houston Super Neighborhood meetings, taking part in community events, working with faith
leaders, or talking to everyday people at H-E-B, Frenchy’s Chicken, or gas stations, I am constantly passing my business card and pitching about the many programs and credentials of value HCC offers. Before I started working here, I had no idea what was taught at HCC. For those who don’t know, we have a gold mine smacked right in our city.
Unfortunately, many people in our community are totally unaware of these programs, and more importantly, they are unaware that some are no-cost (grants) and all are lowcost. I was totally surprised when discovering HCC ranked third in the nation for awarding associate degrees to African Americans. According to the last U.S. Census, there are 505,000 residents who are Black or African American which makes up 22% of Houston’s population, yet only 36.5% have some college or an associate’s degree.
I was fortunate during my time in uniform to obtain a master’s degree due to the educational benefits the military provided. But it could have been a different path had I stayed home.
Initially after graduating high school, I went to college and dropped out after a year. I chose a university and program solely to please my mother, but it was not what I wanted to do in life at that time. I didn’t want to attend a four-year university. Truth be told, I didn’t want to go to college at all. This is the same sentiment expressed by many of those in our communities.
Some are questioning why it is necessary to go to college for four years and incur student loan debt. Some question if graduating college ensures success and long-term wealth. That’s what makes HCC a viable academic path for those who desire to learn a trade or skill that makes them immediately ready for the workforce in a career that’s aligned with their passion. They can complete these programs without a heavy student loan debt burden after graduation.
I joke all the time that we don’t need more rappers and digital influencers – we need electricians, plumbers, welders and other trade skills. In a 2023 study by New America, a Washington Think Tank that focuses on education and other topics, 34% of Gen Zers strongly agree that they can find a well-paying, stable career with a technical certificate.
As part of my outreach efforts, I tell our youth that you can earn your certificate in a program, work for a couple of years to hone your craft, build your reputation, invest in yourself with a business degree and start a path to entrepreneurship. Additionally, stackable credentials such as certificates and micro-credentials build on prior learning and boost employability.
HCC has embraced nontraditional credentials and recognized new alternatives have emerged to offer quicker, cheaper and more flexible options.
Our Black youth can earn high salaries in technological fields, such as HVAC repair and solar installation straight out of HCC. Upon earning these credentials, our youth can become instruments of change in their communities. So, what’s holding them back?
Lack of direction after high school, mental health issues, access to basic facts about programs, racial discrimination, and family engagement are negative factors that need to be addressed from a socio-economic level.
We have some exceptionally talented young men and women in my hometown, and I hope in some small way that I can help the communities I grew up in (of course I’m always going to shout out Third Ward and Sunnyside) to pursue educational opportunities to eclipse barriers and succeed in life.
That’s why I’m home. The next time you see me at Watkins in Sunnyside or the Reggae Hut in Third Ward, let’s talk about solutions for helping our Black youth enroll in college, stack certificates and break generational poverty chains.
Donald Sparks is a retired U.S. Army Sergeant Major who has accomplished many awards in journalism and photojournalism during his time in service as a Public Affairs senior enlisted leader. He is the current Houston Community College - Central Communications Director.
HCC Central Communications Director
PROGRESS
Houston ISD Celebrates 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress Results
By d-mars.com News Provider
The Houston Independent School District (HISD) announced its 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) results, highlighting progress in key academic areas.
As the largest urban district in Texas participating in NAEP’s Trial Urban District Assessment (TUDA), HISD officials say the district “continues to demonstrate academic growth due to its unwavering focus on high-quality instruction.”
The NAEP, often referred to as "The Nation's Report Card," is the only nationwide assessment that measures student knowledge and capabilities across various subjects.
“HISD's performance reflects a commitment to academic excellence, rebounding from pandemic-related learning disruptions at a pace surpassing state, national, and large-city averages,” a news release stated. “Taken together with HISD students’ historic results on the 2024 STAAR exam and the dramatic 82% increase of ‘A’ and ‘B’ rated schools, the NAEP results show that HISD is moving in the right direction.”
KEY HIGHLIGHTS FROM HISD’S 2024 NAEP RESULTS:
Faster Recovery from Learning Loss: HISD students are closing the achievement gap post-pandemic faster than their peers across Texas, national public schools, and other large urban districts
on three of four assessments, having returned to 2019 levels of academic achievement.
Historic Gains for Black and Economically Disadvantaged Students: In 4th-grade reading, Black students reversed a long-standing decline, achieving an eight-point increase in their scale scores. Economically disadvantaged students who make up 78% of HISD’s population outpaced growth rates in comparable districts.
Exceptional Growth for Students with Disabilities: In 8th-grade reading, students with disabilities achieved a 10-point gain, reaching performance levels comparable to peers statewide and in large-city districts.
Improved Proficiency in Key Areas: HISD officials say the district saw significant increases in 4th-grade reading proficiency, with a 4% rise compared to flat or declining trends nationwide.
“Our students and educators have shown incredible dedication and persistence,” said Alexandra Elizondo, HISD Chief of Public Affairs and Communications. “These results are a testament to what our community can achieve when we work together, embrace change, and stay committed to delivering the education our students deserve. We will continue to focus on supporting our educators and providing high-quality instruction to all of our students every day. It is especially significant for a district as large as HISD to show so much progress for our students. Results like this in such a short amount of time, do not happen without an entire system changing this way it works to serve students differently.”
Source: Houston Independent School District (HISD)
How Homeowners Can Dodge Fraudsters When in Financial Distress
By
lthough fraudsters will prey on anyone, many tactics specifically target those facing financial hardship in the wake of a natural disaster.
To help you avoid becoming a victim when you’re most vulnerable, consider these tips and insights:
WATCH OUT FOR COMMON DISASTER-RELATED SCAMS
As the intensity of severe weather events increases, understanding common disaster-related scams can help you avoid them. These include:
High-Interest Loans for Repairs: In this scam, someone may offer to loan you money for home repairs, often at a high interest rate, while you wait for your insurance money. In return, they ask for a post-dated check, your auto title or your tax refund. Although this may provide short-term relief, it’s an example of predatory lending because the high interest rates could end up costing you more in the long term. Read any contract before signing it, and make sure you understand the total cost of the loan, including its terms and fees.
Repair Contractor Prepayment: In this scam, your home repair contractor may ask you to sign a “direction to pay form” that allows your insurance company to pay the contractor directly, even before the repair work is completed. This can leave you vulnerable to incomplete or poor quality work. To avoid this scam, read your contract carefully and do not authorize the full payment amount until you are satisfied with the final product.
Requests for Financial Information: In this scam, a person claiming to be a government employee or disaster relief professional may request financial information, saying they need it to help you recover from a crisis. Protect yourself by never giving anyone your personally identifiable information by phone, email, text or in person without confirming their identity. For example, ask for identification and independently call the entity the person claims to work for.
IF YOU’RE STRUGGLING TO PAY YOUR MORTGAGE, BEWARE OF FRAUDSTERS
If you’re struggling to pay your mortgage after a natural disaster or due to other circumstances and you are facing foreclosure, be on the lookout for two common types of fraud.
Foreclosure Rescue Fraud: In such a scheme, someone may falsely promise to be able to save your home from foreclosure. The fraudster will commonly:
• Require you to sign the title to your home over to them.
• Ask you to sign unfamiliar documents.
• Ask you to share personal information.
• Charge you rent to stay in your home.
• Offer to pay your delinquent mortgage by purchasing your home.
• Promise that you can repurchase your home when your financial situation improves.
Fraudsters orchestrating these schemes pose as professionals and promise to stop foreclosure, often at a high price. However, they don’t deliver on their promises. As a result, you could lose the title to your home and be at risk of foreclosure.
Loan Modification Scams: Loan modification scams may operate similarly to foreclosure rescue fraud. In these scams, fraudsters collect an upfront fee and promise to work with your loan servicer on your behalf. They claim that they can obtain a loan modification that reduces your payments.
If someone other than your loan servicer (the company listed on your mortgage statement) offers you mortgage assistance, don’t provide your information.
If you are struggling with your mortgage payment, contact your lender, a certified HUD housing counselor or a housing finance agency. These trustworthy resources can present you with real options to help avoid foreclosure.
Unfortunately, fraudsters have made it their business to prey on pain. With the right knowledge, you can help ensure that no one takes advantage of you when you’re down on your luck.
Source: StatePoint (Edited by d-mars.com)
Protecting Your Child from Illness in Winter Months
By d-mars.com
Your child has a stuffy nose, cough and fever. Is it the flu? COVID? A common cold? Or are they symptoms of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)? Or another virus known to cause the common cold? There seem to be so many, especially in young children who can have several colds per year.
Viruses can keep your child out of school for days and aren’t cured by antibiotics. Days being sick mean missing activities and time with friends. One of the best ways to keep everyone healthy is to get vaccinated when you can, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
If your child isn’t feeling well and has a fever, stuffy nose, cough, headache or body aches, is throwing up or has diarrhea, it is most likely from a virus. There are tests for things like the flu, RSV and other causes of illness. Be sure to call your pediatrician to help sort out if you need testing and if it could be flu, COVID, or a cold.
How To Make A Difference When It Comes To Heart Health
id you know that every 33 seconds in the U.S., one person dies from heart disease? This is according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which also reports that while affecting people of all ethnic backgrounds, cardiovascular disease accounts for nearly one-fourth (22.6%) of deaths among African Americans. Heart and heart vessel disease can lead to serious health events including heart attacks and strokes.
To make a difference when it comes to heart health, learn how you, your family, and your community can support your well-being - and consider opportunities for pursuing a career in health care.
Impact of heart disease for African Americans
Data published by the American Heart Association in 2022 found that around 60% of Black men and women had cardiovascular disease, making the mortality rate due to heart disease among the highest in Black Americans compared to other racial and ethnic groups.
While many factors such as lifestyle and family health history contribute to the high rate of heart disease for African Americans, experts say it has also been found that inequities within the health care system and unequal access to quality health care create serious obstacles.
Social determinants of health such as having safe housing,
adequate income, access to healthy food and clean water, plus education and job opportunities, are all part of the environment impacting the overall health of an individual, their family and entire communities. These factors
Ask your pediatrician about the flu vaccine. It is recommended for everyone 6 months and older each year. Just last year in 2024, nearly 200 U.S. children died of flu-related illness. Eighty-three percent of the children who died from the flu were not vaccinated, making it clear that the flu vaccine helped children avoid getting very sick.
It’s also important to get the updated COVID vaccine. This virus has not gone away, and it still makes kids sick. In August 2024 during a COVID spike, nearly 6% of emergency department visits for children younger than 5 years old were from COVID, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Lastly, the most common cause of hospitalization in infants under 1 year of age is RSV. Infecting nearly all children at least once by the time they are 2 years old, RSV can be dangerous. The infection can spread to the lungs and cause serious breathing problems that can’t be managed at home. Nirsevimab (Beyfortus) immunization is for infants under 8 months of age during RSV season. It is also for some children age 8 through 19 months who are at increased risk for severe RSV disease and entering their second RSV season.
Source: StatePoint (Edited by d-mars.com)
blood pressure, blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels. Whether you walk, play a sport, go to the gym, dance, swim or cycle - any activity is better than no activity. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting an exercise program.
Eat food that fuels your body
are real burdens when it comes to people being able to be proactive about their own wellness.
Experts say concerns ranging from lack of insurance or being underinsured, to insufficient transportation and the inability to take off work to get checkups can all keep people from taking care of their health. Those working in the field of public health try to bridge those gaps by providing information about access to screenings and lifestyle changes people may find helpful to support their heart health.
Heart health tips to practice and share with others To help reduce your own risk of heart disease, here are some lifestyle tips recommended by the CDC.
Get moving: Regular physical activity can help you maintain a healthier weight, while also potentially lowering your
Choosing fresh fruits and veggies, whole grains and lean proteins will provide more nutrients your body needs than foods containing too much sugar, salt or saturated and trans fats.
See your doctor at least once a year
Annual wellness checks provide opportunities for important screenings that can detect risk factors for heart disease, such as your blood pressure, plus cholesterol and glucose levels. This can help you and your healthcare team take action to support your health.
Reduce smoking and alcohol intake
If you smoke, now is a great time to quit. Ask your healthcare provider for assistance to quit smoking. Reducing drinking to one per day for women and two per day for men can also help improve your blood pressure.
Consider a career in health care
If you want to help communities understand the risks of heart disease and how to take steps for a healthier heart, consider advancing your education in health and wellness. For example, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree can prepare you to define your path, find your voice, and play a bigger role in health care.
Gain the knowledge and leadership skills to address health and access issues for populations in underserved communities and focus on key health issues that may otherwise be overlooked.
Source: Brandpoint (Edited by d-mars.com)
ThePowerSustaining of PowerSelf-Love
By Frenetta Tate | Contributing Writer
hat if I told you that self-love is as vital as oxygen and that neglecting it could rob you of the life you deserve?
For many, self-love is dismissed as indulgent or trivial—a luxury reserved for spa days. But here’s the truth: self-love is a lifeline, a foundation for your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It’s essential for everyone, regardless of age or gender.
Neglecting self-love has consequences that ripple through every aspect of your life. It’s not just about feeling less confident or skipping self-care; the stakes are much higher. Here’s how self-neglect affects your overall well-being:
1. Physical Health Decline
When self-love is absent, your body bears the burden. Chronic stress can disrupt sleep, weaken your immune system, and lead to long-term health issues. Ignoring fatigue or pain often escalates problems into severe conditions. Overworking, skipping meals, or relying on unhealthy coping mechanisms can further chip away at your well-being. Your body is resilient, but it requires care to thrive. Without self-love, untreated stress and poor habits can lead to heart disease, energy depletion, and diminished quality of life.
2. Mental and Emotional Strain
A lack of self-love creates fertile ground for negative self-talk. Thoughts like, "I’m not good enough" or "I don’t deserve happiness" can erode confidence and decision-making. Over time, these patterns can develop into anxiety or depression, trapping you in a cycle of emotional exhaustion and self-doubt. Without emotional care, challenges feel insurmountable. Resilience wanes, and you may avoid conflict or internalize blame, leading to isolation and disconnection from others.
3. Toxic Relationships
Neglecting self-love leaves you vulnerable to unhealthy relationships. Without boundaries, you may overextend yourself or tolerate manipulation and disrespect. This creates emotional fatigue and resentment. Often, self-neglect leads to seeking validation from others. However, external validation is fleeting and conditional, leaving you feeling empty. Healthy relationships flourish only when rooted in mutual respect and self-awareness—both of which stem from valuing yourself.
4. Stagnation and Missed Opportunities
Self-love fuels ambition and growth. Without it, fear of failure, imposter syndrome, or self-doubt can keep you stuck in unfulfilling routines or relationships.When you lack self-belief, opportunities to step outside your comfort zone are missed, and growth becomes stifled. This stagnation robs you of the joy and fulfillment that come from living authentically and pursuing your passions.
StepInto Your Power
Reclaiming self-love begins with intentional steps toward understanding where you are now and creating a path forward. Here’s how you can start building sustainable self-love:
1. Acknowledge the Problem
Start by identifying where self-neglect has taken hold. Are you constantly giving to others without replenishing yourself? Are exhaustion and self-doubt clouding your judgment? Awareness is the first step toward transformation. Reflect on the choices and habits that have led you here, knowing that this acknowledgment is an act of courage.
2. Start with Small Acts of Love
Self-love doesn’t require monumental changes overnight. Small, consistent actions can rebuild your foundation. These might include:
• Taking intentional breaks to recharge.
• Preparing meals that nourish your body and spirit.
• Saying “no” to obligations that drain your energy.
For many, saying “no” feels difficult due to societal expectations or a desire to serve others. Yet, it’s one of the healthiest forms of self-love. You cannot pour from an empty cup—preserving your mental fitness requires setting boundaries.
3. Reframe Your Inner Dialogue
Your thoughts shape your reality. Begin replacing harmful self-criticism with compassionate affirmations. For example, instead of saying, "I’m always failing," try, "I’m learning and growing every day." Speak to yourself with the same kindness you offer others. Over time, this practice reshapes your mindset and strengthens your confidence.
4. Seek Support
You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Surround yourself with people who inspire and uplift you— friends, family, mentors, or therapists. A supportive community reflects the love and respect you’re cultivating for yourself, helping you stay on track.
5. Invest in Self-Care
Investing in self-care means committing time and energy to activities that replenish you. It could be as simple as journaling, enjoying a quiet walk, or dedicating time to hobbies. Treat yourself with the same care you offer to others, making self-care an integral part of your routine.
LEAVING SELF-NEGLECT BEHIND
To fully embrace The Sustaining Power of Self-Love, create a plan to prevent old patterns of neglect from resurfacing.
1. Regular Self-Check-Ins
Set aside time weekly or monthly to reflect on your well-being. Ask yourself: "Am I prioritizing my needs? What adjustments do I need to make?" Regular evaluations ensure you stay aligned with your goals.
2. Establish Healthy Boundaries
Boundaries protect your energy and reinforce your self-respect. Learn to say “no” without guilt and communicate your limits clearly. Boundaries aren’t barriers—they’re frameworks for healthier connections.
3. Celebrate Your Progress
Acknowledge your growth, no matter how small. Whether it’s completing a project or simply taking a day to rest, celebrating these moments builds momentum and reinforces your commitment to self-love.
4. Commit to Lifelong Growth
Self-love is a journey, not a destination. Stay curious about your potential, set meaningful goals, and view challenges as opportunities to deepen your understanding of yourself. Your life reflects how much you value yourself. The way you treat yourself sets the tone for how others treat you and how you navigate the world.
Start today with one small step: speak kindly to yourself, say “no” to something that drains you, or nourish your body with care. Each action sends a powerful message: I am worthy. I am enough. Yes!
Self-love is a celebration—and a revolution. It transforms your life from within, creating a foundation of strength and confidence that sustains you through challenges and triumphs. Prioritize yourself and watch how your world changes in response.
You deserve nothing less than a life built on the sustaining power of self-love.
Frenetta Tate is the CEO of Frenetta Tate Global LLC.
Shortness of Breath Not Going Away?
Ask Your Doctor for a Blood Test
Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is an ultra-rare lung disease with approximately 3,600 diagnosed cases in the United States. Unfortunately, some people are potentially living with the disease without knowing it, as it is often misdiagnosed.
That is why the American Lung Association, with support from Savara Inc., is launching a new educational campaign to help healthcare providers and patients better recognize the signs and symptoms of autoimmune pulmonary alveolar proteinosis, (aPAP), the most common form of the disease. As part of the campaign, they are sharing these fast facts:
What is aPAP? This disease is characterized by the abnormal buildup of surfactant in the air sacs of the lungs, which can make breathing difficult. The buildup is due to an inability to clear the surfactant. Occurring in both males and females, aPAP is often diagnosed between the ages of 30 and 60.
What are its symptoms? Some people who are living with aPAP may not show symptoms initially, while others may have progressive shortness of breath. Additional symptoms include chronic cough, fatigue, unintentional weight loss and chest pain.
Why is aPAP commonly misdiagnosed? Since aPAP is so rare, and because symptoms are similar to other more common lung diseases, it is often misdiagnosed. Common misdiagnoses include both acute and chronic lung diseases such as pneumonia and asthma.
How is aPAP diagnosed? If you are diagnosed with another lung disease and the treatment is not effective, your doctor may recommend a chest CT scan. If you have an abnormal chest scan with unresolved lung symptoms, you should also talk to your healthcare provider about getting a free, simple blood test called aPAP ClearPath, which measures the level of the GMCSF antibodies in your blood to determine if you have the disease.
How is aPAP treated? Currently, there is no cure for aPAP and no FDA-approved therapies; however, symptoms can be managed. The most common treatment is whole lung lavage, (WLL) also called “lung washing.” WLL washes out the built-up surfactant from the lungs, allowing you to breathe more easily. This treatment often needs to be repeated, as it doesn’t address the underlying cause of the disease.
Managing aPAP well means seeing a specialist who is familiar with this rare lung disease and going to all of your regularly scheduled healthcare appointments.
Without treatment, this progressive disease can increase the risk of infection and lead to respiratory failure that may become life-threatening. Don’t wait. Talk to your doctor if your respiratory symptoms are not being managed with current treatments.
Source: StatePoint
ow is your diet adjusting in the new year so far?
Eating healthier this year doesn’t have to be boring, according to chefs, fitness experts and dietitians. Here’s how to unleash your creativity to ensure your meals and snacks satisfy your cravings:
Go bold
Don’t equate healthy eating with blandness. Instead, add big, bold flavor to meals using herbs, spices, and tangy add-ins, such as vinegar and citrus. Not only will doing so help keep you satisfied, some of these ingredients even have powerful health benefits.
Be willing to learn
If culinary experimentation intimidates you, consider taking a cooking class to gain confidence in the kitchen. Classes are offered at every level and focus on different cuisines and techniques, making it possible to find a course that suits your needs and interests. If you can’t find the right in-person class or your time or budget are tight, check out the wealth of free cooking instruction available online and on social media channels like YouTube and Instagram.
Focus on protein
Make sure all of your meals and snacks are rich in lean protein. This macronutrient is an essential component of a healthy body and can help you feel full for longer. Fortunately, there are convenient and easy protein options that are also convenient and practical for lunch and dinner.
Mix it up
Avoid dietary ruts. To keep things interesting, try new recipes using different ingredients and flavor combinations. We encourage you to think bold and go big in the kitchen in 2025.
Every healthy mashup you make is another chance to win big in your health journey!
You don’t have to be a top chef to create dishes that are anything but ordinary. This new year, step outside your comfort zone, experiment, and have a blast discovering new possibilities in the kitchen.
Source: StatePoint (Edited by d-mars.com)
By d-mars.com
Dr. Alison Scott Cuillier, Owner 713.528.0040 info@lastingimpressinsdentalgroup.com LastingImpressionsDentalGroup.com FB +
New Research Shows African Americans Face Sharply Higher Dementia Risks
ABy Stacy M. Brown News Provider
new study reveals that Americans over the age of 55 have a 42% chance of developing dementia, a figure more than double that reported in previous research. The significant increase in estimated risk means that roughly 514,000 Americans could develop dementia this year alone, with projections rising to approximately 1 million new cases annually by 2060.
Dementia, characterized by progressive declines in memory, concentration, and judgment, is becoming more prevalent due to the aging U.S. population, the study concluded. Factors such as genetics, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, poor diet, lack of exercise, and mental health challenges also contribute to the rising dementia rates.
According to the study, earlier underestimations of dementia
risk were likely due to unreliable recording in health records and death certificates, insufficient monitoring of early-stage cases, and underreporting of cases among racial minorities, who are especially vulnerable.
Conducted by a team from NYU Langone Health with contributions from Johns Hopkins University and other institutions, the research utilized data from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Neurocognitive Study (ARIC-NCS). Since 1987, this study has monitored the vascular health and cognitive function of nearly 16,000 participants, making it the longest-followed cohort of African Americans studying cognition and heart health.
The study, published in Nature Medicine, indicates that women and Black adults, along with individuals carrying the APOE4 gene variant, face higher risks of developing dementia, with lifetime risks ranging from 45% to 60% in these groups.
RESEARCHERS LAUNCH $3.7M STUDY ON HOW STRUCTURAL RACISM ACCELERATES AGING IN BLACK AMERICANS
ABy Stacy M. Brown News Provider
group of researchers from Rutgers University and Michigan State University have launched a major study to examine the long-term effects of structural racism on cognitive aging, physical decline, and frailty—particularly in Black Americans. A five-year grant from the National Institute on Aging, a division of the National Institutes of Health, will support the study under the direction of Danielle L. Beatty Moody, an associate professor at Rutgers, and Richard C. Sadler, an associate professor at Michigan State.
The research team plans to explore how lifetime exposure to structural racism in neighborhoods affects the aging process. The study will involve 800 Black and white participants from Baltimore who have been tracked for over two decades as part of a larger project on healthy aging in diverse neighborhoods. The long-term data will allow researchers to examine the cumulative impact of historical, enduring, and contemporary markers of structural racism.
Dr. Josef Coresh, the study’s senior investigator from NYU Langone, noted the expected increase in dementia cases due to longer life expectancies and the high number of Americans now over age 65. He underlined the importance of early intervention strategies that target heart health to potentially slow cognitive decline and reduce the onset of dementia.
The study also links hearing loss among older adults to increased dementia risk, recommending enhanced testing and government support for hearing aids to promote healthy hearing.
“The pending population boom in dementia cases poses significant challenges for health policymakers, who must refocus their efforts on strategies to minimize the severity of dementia cases, as well as plans to provide more healthcare services for those with dementia,” Dr. Coresh stated.
Source: NNPA Newswire
In a news release, Moody and Sadler asserted that the study moves beyond traditional research focused only on residential segregation or redlining. “It’s not just redlining, and it’s not just segregation,” they said. “The patterns of racist, discriminatory practices go far deeper. We need to comprehensively document the full array of tools used to entrench structural racism in our urban landscapes to understand why racial inequities persist across numerous health outcomes.”
In addition to exploring how non-Black residents in the same communities are affected, the researchers said they would investigate personal experiences with discrimination and biological and social factors that influence risk and resilience. The authors expect the study will inform strategies to address racial inequities in accelerated aging, particularly in communities where Black Americans live and age in place.
Once completed, researchers said they would share the results with participants and local stakeholders to support ongoing advocacy and policy efforts to achieve health equity. Moody and Sadler hope the study’s findings will help drive transformative change, particularly in housing and neighborhood environments.
“We are not only looking at the past or present,” Sadler remarked. “We’re also aiming to influence the future of health equity in communities where Black Americans continue to take the hardest hits.”
Source: NNPA Newswire
New American Heart Association Report Reveals Alarming Inequities in Heart Health by Race and Gender
By Stacy M. Brown News Provider
he American Heart Association’s 2025 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistical Update uncovers glaring racial and gender disparities in cardiovascular health, illustrating the profound toll heart disease takes on marginalized populations. According to the report, non-Hispanic Black adults experience an age-adjusted mortality rate of 379.7 per 100,000 due to cardiovascular disease (CVD), compared to just 104.9 per 100,000 among non-Hispanic Asian females. Researchers asserted that such inequities reflect the disproportionate burden underrepresented communities bear in accessing equitable healthcare and prevention.
TWomen also face significant challenges in cardiovascular health, particularly during and after pregnancy. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy doubled from 2007 to 2019, with preeclampsia and gestational hypertension contributing to adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Black women are disproportionately affected, experiencing higher rates of these conditions, which often lead to long-term cardiovascular complications. Additionally, gestational diabetes increased by 38% between 2016 and 2021, with older mothers facing nearly six times the risk compared to younger mothers. The study’s authors also found that poor sleep quality further compounds the risks, particularly for women, who are up to 2.3 times more likely to report insomnia symptoms than men. According to the report, poor sleep is strongly linked to an increased risk of stroke and other cardiovascular events.
According to the study, social determinants of health, such as poverty, education, and geographic location, also exacerbate these disparities.
Individuals in rural areas or neighborhoods with fewer healthcare resources face limited access to screenings, healthy food options, and consistent medical care. For instance, peripheral artery disease (PAD) patients living in zip codes with a median
household income of less than $40,000 are at a significantly higher risk of undergoing amputations. The report also noted that racial inequities extend to emergency care. Black individuals experiencing out-of-hospital cardiac arrests are 27% less likely to receive bystander CPR at home and 37% less likely in public locations than White individuals. These disparities persist even when income levels are accounted for.
“We have the tools to address these inequities, but they require a commitment to prioritizing the health of all communities,” stated Dr. Seth Martin, who chaired the report. Officials said the AHA’s “Life’s Essential 8” framework is a guideline for improving cardiovascular health. This model includes recommendations for healthier diets, consistent physical activity, and better cholesterol and glucose management. However, the report indicates that over 80% of U.S. adults fail to meet these criteria. Average diet quality scores are just 59 out of 100, and disparities are evident across race, income, and education levels. Researchers insisted that improving these metrics could reduce major cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes.
Community health initiatives play a critical role in addressing these disparities.
Expanding access to nutritious food, exercise facilities, and education can help reduce risk factors.
For example, studies have shown that reallocating just seven minutes of sedentary behavior daily to moderate or vigorous physical activity can significantly improve cardiometabolic health, including reductions in body mass index (BMI) and blood sugar levels.
Another critical area of focus is maternal health. Programs that emphasize early intervention and monitoring for pregnant women—especially those at high risk—can reduce complications such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes. Lifestyle interventions, including weight management and exercise, have been shown to cut the risk of hypertensive pregnancy disorders nearly in half. Dr. Yvonne Commodore-Mensah, a contributor to the report, added that systemic solutions are essential to addressing these disparities. “When we examine cardiovascular health, it’s clear that social determinants and structural inequities remain significant barriers. Improving health equity means removing these barriers,” she said.
Additionally, the report spelled out the economic burden of cardiovascular disease, which totaled $417.9 billion in 2021 alone. Prescription medications and office visits represent the largest cost drivers, but inequities in care access often lead to more severe and costly outcomes for marginalized groups. The report concluded that addressing the various issues would require a collective effort from policymakers, healthcare providers, and community leaders. Expanding Medicaid, funding local health initiatives, and ensuring equitable resource distribution are steps that can help bridge these gaps. “Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death globally,” said Dr. Mitchell Elkind, another key contributor to the report. “Progress is possible, but it demands both innovation in healthcare and a commitment to equity.”
Source: NNPA Newswire
DeAndre Sam, President/CEO
A-Rocket Moving & Storage, Inc.
A-ROCKET Moving & Storage
A 66-YEAR LEGACY OF DISTINCTION, INNOVATION AND GROWTH
Since 1959, A-Rocket Moving & Storage, Inc. has been a trusted business and pillar in Houston’s inner-city community. The company provides top-quality relocation, storage and logistics services to corporate, industrial and government clientele. Known for handling services for some of the biggest names and entities in the city, A-Rocket has a reputation for being reliable, professional and making their customers number one. The company’s mission to generate repeat business, deliver great customer service and gain referrals has contributed greatly to its longevity and success.
A Growing Legacy of Distinction
A-Rocket’s longstanding values of integrity, superior service and hard work stem from its innovative founders, Herbert and Irlene Sam. With their vision of owning their own company, the Sams saved their money, purchased a small van, hired one employee and got to work. Within 66 years, the company has gone from having only three employees and one small van to now operating as a complete full-service mover with an office support staff of 15 employees, and a moving staff of 75 full-time and 100 part-time movers. The couple’s son, DeAndre Sam, was given the mantle and has been the company’s president and CEO for 30 years.
“My father started delivering packages with one van and after that, he got into doing apartment moving. In the early 1970s, affirmative action came, providing opportunities for more small businesses, and he started doing commercial work with different companies. Now, most of our business is commercial work and there’s a greater market for what we do,” DeAndre told d-mars.com during an interview.
Services, Equipment, and Clients
Strategically located in the Houston Medical Center, the main services A-Rocket provides
include residential moving, commercial moving, and storage services. Since its inception, A-Rocket has made its primary focus office and laboratory relocations. Over the years, storage services have become an integral part of the overall services they provide, making the company one of the leaders in the office and industrial industries in Houston.
A-Rocket’s climate control warehouse facility is 150,000 square feet. A full-time warehouse manager oversees a staff of three warehousemen.
A-Rocket’s top-running fleet consists of 27 trucks of various sizes, including straight trucks, a tractor-trailer, and Econoline vans. He also owns four C-Vans and 15 passenger vans.
Some clients and businesses A-Rocket provides services for include:
Houston Independent School District (HISD), Houston Rockets, Texas Southern University, University of Houston, Rice University, Houston Community College, Fluor Corporation, CenterPoint, ConocoPhillips, City of Houston, Harris County, NRG, METRO Transit, Memorial Hermann Hospital, Homeland Security, and many others.
Community Involvement & Commitments
A-Rocket is no stranger to giving back to the Houston community. Some of the company’s corporate commitments and sponsorships include: Texas Southern University Sports Department - 40 years; Texas MS 150 Bike Tour - 17 years; Conoco/Phillips Rodeo Run - 25 years; Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo - 15 years; Congresswoman Shelia Jackson-Lee Toys for Kids - 17 years; Hope Through Grace - 8 years; Alzheimer's Association Walk - 10 years; and several other local community entities – 30 years.
A-Rocket is also a business that provides job opportunities to those who are in need of a second chance.
“We believe that whatever you’ve done in the past is the past,” DeAndre said. “If there’s an opportunity in the future to straighten yourself up and do the right thing, we want to make sure we try to help you.”
“This new warehouse shows the growth of A-Rocket and creates opportunities for future growth as well. We’re looking forward to providing more employment opportunities,” DeAndre said.
DeAndre is also the owner of a few affordable housing units in the Houston area, helping those in need of quality living facilities at an affordable price, especially for those who work for A-Rocket. He plans to make more affordable housing for employees in the future.
Going After New Business
DeAndre and the A-Rocket team are looking to do more business with more clients and companies throughout the Houston area.
Throughout the company’s existence, it has done an exceptional job of maintaining its clientele, greatly contributing to its longevity. The team is now hoping to expand its network this year.
“ While we’ve done a good job of maintaining relationships with the current businesses we work with, we’ve got to go after new business too,” DeAndre explained. “There’s no substitute for quality service and I’ve never backed down from that. We spend a lot of time developing the business relationships that we have. We have 30-year relationships with some of our customers. Now, we look forward to creating more by reaching out to new people.”
The Future of A-Rocket: What to Expect
Reflecting the company’s ongoing commitment to serving the Houston community while working to expand its clientele and enhance its services, A-Rocket is opening a new state-ofthe-art climate-controlled warehouse in February 2025.
Key features of the new facility include:
• Dock System: State-of-the-art dock system, which features high docks and multiple doors to streamline loading and unloading operations
• Facility Size: 150,000 square feet, providing ample space to accommodate diverse storage needs
• Prime Location: Conveniently located in the heart of Houston’s Medical Center, the
warehouse is just 15 minutes away from major points in Houston, ensuring fast and efficient service.
• 24-Hour Security Guard and Fencing: Customers’ belongings are protected around the clock by professional security personnel and a secure perimeter fence.
• Advanced Security Camera and Access Control System: High-definition cameras and access control systems provide continuous monitoring and restricted access.
• Climate-Controlled Environment: Fully equipped to maintain optimal conditions, ensuring sensitive and valuable items are kept in pristine condition.
• Full-Time Warehouse Supervisor: An on-site supervisor oversees daily operations and provides immediate assistance during operational hours.
• Insured and Bonded Facility: Fully insured and bonded, offering an additional layer of protection and peace of mind for clients.
Hours
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operation:
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The warehouse can be opened outside of regular business hours upon special request.
book A-Rocket’s services TODAY: call 713-748-6024 to speak with a certified moving consultant or visit arocket.com.
60% OF AMERICANS FEEL CONFIDENT ABOUT REACHING THEIR FINANCIAL GOALS
By d-mars.com News Provider
etirement is a journey, and every milestone counts: New Empower research shows that Americans across generations are making progress toward retirement, from building emergency funds to paying off debt. While each generation faces unique financial challenges, many share a strong sense of optimism about their financial futures.
RKEY TAKEAWAYS
Optimism prevails
60% of Americans feel confident about reaching their financial goals, with Millennials leading at 63%.
Money moves
Nearly half of Americans (47%) have successfully paid off their debts, 40% have achieved homeownership, 39% have established an emergency fund, and 32% have started securing retirement savings.
Retirement reality check
Americans aim to retire at 62 but expect they may work until 70. Rising living costs (70%), insufficient savings (50%), inflation (48%), and unexpected financial emergencies (39%) are among the common factors contributing to adjusted timelines.
Through the ages
Americans aim to purchase a home by 38, build an emergency fund by 40, pay off debt by 42, achieve financial independence by 46, and accumulate retirement funds by 47.
Planning for success
Nearly half of Americans (49%) have a clear financial plan to meet their money goals.
Progressing toward financial goals
Unretired Americans are making headway on key financial goals, with nearly half (47%) having paid off debt and 40% achieving homeownership. Many are also building a financial cushion - 39% have established an emergency fund, while 32% have started securing retirement savings.
For those still working toward these milestones, optimism is high. Sixty percent believe they will reach their goals, with Millennials (63%) being the most confident. On average, Amer-
icans aim to accomplish their financial milestones at specific ages: purchasing a home by 38, building an emergency fund by 40, paying off debt by 42, achieving financial independence by 46, and securing retirement funds by 47.
Nearly half of Americans (49%) have a clear financial plan to meet these targets, including 49% of Millennials and 50% of Gen Z. Still, 32% recognize they need a structured plan, particularly among Gen X (37%).
Planning for retirement
Some 73% believe they'll retire at the age they envision, although 27% still express concerns about timing. This sentiment varies slightly by generation, with Gen Z (28%) and Millennials (27%) most likely to feel this uncertainty, followed by Gen X (26%) and Baby Boomers (11%).
To bolster their retirement plans, most Americans (67%) are focusing on reducing or eliminating debt, and many (63%) are supplementing their income with multiple jobs. Among younger generations, 68% of Gen Zers have taken on side hustles to help save for retirement, while 24% of both Millennials and Gen Zers are considering job changes for higher salaries.
Almost half of Americans (48%) are confident they'll maintain their current lifestyle in retirement, with Gen Z (51%) being the most optimistic. Setting realistic goals and making intentional financial decisions - like minimizing debt, pursuing additional income, and securing higher wages - can empower Americans to retire on their own terms and enjoy the lifestyle they envision.
Navigating retirement setbacks
Most Americans (54%) are on track to retire as planned, though some feel they have to delay an average of 6 to 8 years due to economic factors like rising living costs (70%), insufficient savings (50%), inflation (48%), and unexpected financial emergencies (39%). On average, Americans are targeting an average retirement age of 62 but anticipate they may work until around 70.
For those concerned about the potential impact of job instability, 49% are mindful of how an unexpected layoff might affect their retirement plans. This concern is shared across generations, with Gen X (52%), Millennials (48%), Gen Z (47%), and Baby Boomers (26%) reporting varying degrees of worry.
Building an emergency savings fund, regularly reviewing your retirement plan, and adjusting your budget as needed can help you stay on track. Seeking advice from a financial planner can also offer extra security and flexibility to navigate unexpected challenges.
Methodology
Empower commissioned a survey of 1,006 Americans in September 2024.
Source: Brandpoint (Edited by d-mars.com)
Top Scams to Watch Out for This Tax Season
he days of filing paper tax returns are gone, and criminals are taking advantage. With taxpayers managing their sensitive information online, thieves are finding new ways to scam victims. In 2023 alone, the IRS reported $5.5 billion lost to tax fraud schemes. And the increased prevalence of artificial intelligence means tax scams this year will likely be more sophisticated than ever.
Scammers have an arsenal of weapons, but no matter their tactics, the goal is the same – to have you give them money or access to it. Here are scams to look out for this tax season:
Tax avoidance scams.
These scams often promise rewards too good to be true. Scammers claim to have specialized knowledge on exploiting loopholes to avoid taxes or maximize returns. High-income filers are heavily targeted through offers of seemingly legitimate annuities or tax shelters.
Refund scams. In this scam, a criminal will claim to be someone official notifying of an unclaimed or incorrectly calculated refund, prompting the victim to share information – and possibly bank account numbers – to claim it.
Violation scams. This is a fear-based scam, where the criminal poses as an IRS official threatening some punitive action, claiming the victim committed a violation and needs to contact them to resolve the situation.
Filing support scams. Similar to tech support scams, criminals offer to help create IRS accounts to assist with the online filing process. Frequently posing as tax preparers, scammers will go through the motions of gathering the victim’s personal information for tax forms they never intend to file.
Social media scams. Social media serves as a great place for criminals to find potential victims and carry out tax scams, fraudulently claiming to offer different types of services or possessing unique knowledge or access.
Recovery scams. Once a victim is scammed, criminals will try to strike again – believing the victim is gullible. Exploiting a time of vulnerability, they’ll contact the victim with promises of helping them recover their losses and will leverage this as an opening to commit additional crimes.
While it is not always easy to pick out a scam, here are indicators to watch for:
Promise of a big payout. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Request for your account information. The IRS will never ask for your credit or debit account information over the phone.
Random contact. The IRS contacts taxpayers by mail first and will never contact via random phone calls or digital means. The IRS will not leave prerecorded, urgent, or threatening voicemails.
Demands or threats. The IRS can’t revoke your driver’s license, business licenses or immigration status and cannot threaten to immediately bring in local law enforcement.
Taxpayers are allowed an appeals process, so any message of “now or else” won’t come from an official channel.
Request for you to click a web link. Odd or misspelled web links can take you to harmful sites instead of IRS.gov.
The IRS recommends these best practices to protect against tax fraud:
Get an early start. File early so criminals have less time to impersonate you.
Set up a verified account. Set up your own IRS account before someone else can and use an Identity Protection PIN – a six-digit number known only to you and the IRS.
Wait for written notice. Do not respond to any supposed communications from the IRS if you haven’t first received official notification through U.S. mail. If you get a call from someone claiming to be the IRS, hang up and call the official number on the website before engaging. Further, never click a link sent digitally as initial contact.
Apply good cyber hygiene. Do not use public Wi-Fi when filing your tax returns. Do use strong passwords, secured network connections and multi-factor authentication. Run all software updates and keep systems current.
If you fall victim to a tax scam, report it to the IRS. For more scam protection tips, visit PNC’s Security & Privacy Center at pnc.com.
One wrong click can cause tremendous damage that ends up earning bad guys a windfall. However, a little caution can go a long way in helping you avoid a costly tax scam.
Source: StatePoint (Edited by d-mars.com)
5 WAYS AI IS CREATING A SMARTER SMARTPHONE
By d-mars.com News Provider
odern cell phones are capable of far more than just calling, texting and simple games like Snake. When you carry your smartphone, you have a supercomputer in your pocket that can unlock your car, adjust your thermostat, suggest recipes based on what's in your fridge and more.
Experts and cell phone companies are digging deeper into how artificial intelligence-powered smartphone features make it easier to use your time efficiently and perform day-to-day tasks. Here is a breakdown of five ways AI has made smartphones even smarter.
1. Hyper personalization: Your phone, your way
Get ready for a phone that knows what you need before you do. AI learns from your habits, adapts to how you use them and even optimizes battery life for the things that matter most.
An AI-powered phone can learn your daily patterns, so it can recommend apps you commonly use in your morning routine or highlight content that interests you.
The benefits of these AI features that are useful for everyday habits also trickle down to convenience and increased productivity.
Most modern smartphones use some form of machine learning to recommend the next word in a text message or the next sentence in an email. With AI, your phone can take this concept a step further and recommend different responses for friends versus co-workers and supervisors.
2. Next-level accessibility and inclusivity
AI is making phones more accessible than ever, with tools like voice commands and speechto-text empowering people to communicate and navigate the world more easily. For example, many AI-powered smartphones now feature real-time voice transcription, image recognition for the visually impaired and voice-command-based navigation.
These AI accessibility features can also break down communication barriers with real-time translation tools. For example, Google Translate now supports over 240 languages with near-instant speech-to-text translation powered by AI, making cross-language communication seamless.
If you're multilingual and use multi-language keyboards, you can even rely on AI to enhance your experience with predictive text, smooth language switching and contextual suggestions.
3. AI-powered photo adjustments and editing
Kiss blurry photos goodbye! The AI-powered smartphone cameras on today's smartphones
use advanced software to help you capture images that were once only possible with professional equipment.
AI can detect the difference between the subject and the background so you can create beautiful portrait-mode shots that rival high-end cameras. Whether you're taking a group photo at a dimly lit concert or trying to capture the perfect sunset selfie, AI adjusts the camera settings to the ideal exposure and clarity.
After taking a photo, AI steps in to sharpen details and boost colors so every photo pops. Real-time image enhancement and scene recognition help you capture those epic, Insta-worthy shots even with zero photography skills.
4. Always-on security
In a world full of hackers and scammers, you need your phone to have your back 24/7. AI is helping to make sure that's the case.
Through pattern recognition and computer vision, experts say AI has enhanced the accuracy of facial recognition and fingerprint scanning systems, making them faster, more reliable and more secure. This technology allows systems to more effectively differentiate between genuine biometrics and fraudulent attempts.
5. Virtual assistants that get you
Did you know that in 2022, 142 million people - nearly half the U.S. population - were using virtual assistants? That number is predicted to hit 157 million by 2026. These virtual assistants could learn your behaviors, send texts, control smart home devices and provide directions.
By integrating AI, these virtual assistants have only gotten smarter. Now, if you're searching for a recipe shared via text, note or email, or need your passport number for booking a flight, it can quickly locate the information on your device - which is far more complex than simply answering, "What's the weather today?"
These are just five of the many ways AI has allowed smartphones to live up to their name. AI has a huge impact on how we use our devices to be more productive every day as they become true extensions of us and our capabilities.
Source: Brandpoint (Edited by d-mars.com)
DEADLY MIDAIR COLLISION NEAR REAGAN NATIONAL SPARKS QUESTIONS;
By Stacy M. Brown, d-mars.com
ravelers are experiencing much anxiety after a midair collision between an American Airlines jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport on Wednesday, Jan 29, 2025, left no apparent survivors.
The tragic crash involved American Eagle Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, which was en route from Wichita to Washington, D.C., carrying 60 passengers and four crew members. The Black Hawk helicopter was on a training flight with three service members aboard.
At a morning briefing the next day, D.C. Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly confirmed that all passengers and crew members on both aircraft were presumed dead. Debris from the collision was found as far south as the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, about a mile from the crash site. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy addressed the crash at the briefing, stating that while “everything was
standard in the lead-up to the crash,” investigators were working to determine what went wrong.
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom expressed condolences to the victims’ families and confirmed that the crew on board included two flight attendants, a pilot with six years of experience, and a first officer with two years of experience.
“We are all hurting,” Isom said. “We are heartbroken for the families and loved ones of the passengers and crew members, as well as those in the military aircraft.”
Authorities confirmed that about 20 figure skaters and coaches, including children, were on the flight. The Kremlin reported that two former Russian figure skaters were among the victims.
Since the deadly collision, there have been other reports of aircraft crashes and incidents, including a United Airlines plane catching
on fire before taking off at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and a deadly plane crash in Philadelphia.
If you are someone who is experiencing travel anxiety amid these reports, then you are not alone and it is completely understandable. Incidents like these naturally heighten fears of flying. There are a few ways to help manage your anxiety during this time:
Educate yourself on air travel: As of today, flying is still one of the safest forms of travel. Pilots and air traffic controllers are also rigorously trained to prevent accidents. While every flight and incident is different, there are people who try to ensure there are extensive maintenance and safety checks.
Avoid overconsumption of news: While we encourage you to stay informed, constantly watching or reading about aviation incidents can ultimately increase your fear and anxiety. Try to limit your news consumption as investigations ensue.
Speak with a professional: If you feel like your travel anxiety has become severe, you may want to consider speaking with a coun-
selor. Experts say cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help in managing your fears related to taking flights.
You can acknowledge your fears—just don’t let them control you: We encourage you to acknowledge any fears you may have when it comes to flying. When challenging that fear, ask yourself, “Are my fears based on facts or are they based on my emotions?” This can help you navigate through some of the things you may tell yourself as you prepare to travel.
Travel by vehicle: There is nothing wrong with getting in your vehicle and deciding to travel to your destination on land. If you are that fearful of air travel at this time, you don’t have to put yourself through what seems to be mental torture. Until you feel safe to fly, it is totally fine to rearrange your travel plans.
d-mars.com gives condolences to the victims who were killed during these incidents. We want to wish you all safe travels as we all navigate through this difficult and what seems to be an uncertain time.
Source: NNPA Newswire; d-mars.com
by d-mars.com
Red Velvet Cheesecake
February is a great month to embrace the color red! This red velvet cheesecake recipe combines the rich, velvety flavor of red velvet cake with the creamy smoothness of cheesecake, creating a show-stopping treat. Its beautiful red hue and creamy layers make it perfect for any special occasion or just because you’re craving something truly indulgent. Here’s a recipe for a red velvet cheesecake you’ll surely fall in love with!
INGREDIENTS FOR THE RED VELVET CAKE LAYER:
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp red food coloring
• 1 tsp white vinegar
INGREDIENTS FOR THE CHEESECAKE LAYER
• 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup (80ml) sour cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
INGREDIENTS FOR THE CREAM CHEESE FROSTING
• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
DIRECTIONS
Step 1: Prepare the Red Velvet Cake Layer
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the buttermilk, vanilla, and red food coloring.
5. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined. Finally, mix in the vinegar.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
1. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled red velvet cake layer.
5. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool gradually to prevent cracking.
6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
Step 3: Prepare the Red Velvet Cake Layer
1. Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble and Decorate
1. Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and place it on a serving plate.
2. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
3. Optionally, decorate with red velvet crumbs, sprinkles, or chocolate shavings.
SERVE AND ENJOY
Slice into this luscious red velvet cheesecake and savor the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s sure to impress your family and friends!
