Business Journal 135 by d-mars.com

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BUSINESS JOURNAL

November 2018

Inspire, Inform & Educate

135th Edition

INSIDE

17th Annual Texas High School Jamboree

06 Pink Power: The Fight to Punch Out Breast Cancer and Promote Women’s Health

Strength by Numbers Black Professionals Give Back

28 Study on Blacks and Tech Reveals Digital Users Becoming Owners

left to right: Keith J. Davis, Sr. (MR. D-MARS) , Carmen Herrera and Eugene Padgett

16-17

November 2018 | 3

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE d-mars.com is proud to share the success stories of African American businesses and civic and community leaders. We know that success does not always come easy and it is not always measured in money. How have you helped your fellow entrepreneur? Have you supported your locally-owned African American business? Have you donated to a nonprofit that is working in our underserved communities? Questions to think about and actions to take.

“I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.”

This month’s issue highlights the 9th Annual Holiday Social and Toy Drive, an annual event put on by the Black Professionals Alliance. This event has blossomed over the years and now provides gifts for thousands of children in Houston. As always, thank you for your continued support of d-mars.com. When you support us, you are supporting more than just our company; you are supporting the communities in which we live and work. Working together, we can succeed in making positive things happen.

—Maya Angelou

MR. D-MARS CERTIFIED:

HMSDC

Port of Houston

BEHIND THE JOURNAL PUBLISHER & CEO Keith J. Davis, Sr. COO & MANAGING EDITOR Kimberly Floyd EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Tiffany Brown ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla PHOTOGRAPHY L.C. Poullard Grady Carter ART DIRECTOR Angel Rosa GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kendra Wiseman PROJECT COORDINATORS Lindsey Ford Carly Hammack DISTRIBUTION Rockie Hayden CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kim Floyd and Valerie Jones Nelson Brand Sports Noel Pinnock Stacey M. Brown (NNPA) Charlene Crowell (NNPA) Lauren Victoria Burke (NNPA)

METRO

City of Houston

HISD

CONTENTS

VBE

DBE

OUR SERVICES

04 Business 04 Job Opportunities in Manufacturing benefit America veterans 04 The Growth of Online Learning 05 Community 05 Why Public Transit is a Key economic issue for growing cities 05 Get At It! 08 17th Annual Texas High School Jamboree 09 AARP’s “Be the Difference. Vote” 10 Old Folks Saying

HUB

ADVERTISING | MARKETING MEDIA | COMMUNICATION 08

06 In the Business Community… 06 Pink Power: The Fight to Punch Out Breast Cancer and Promote Women’s Health 12 Career 12 What does the shortfall of truck drivers mean for the economy? 16-17 Cover Story 16-17 Strength in Numbers: Black Professionals Give Back 14 Education 16-17 14 Commentary: Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program Fails to Forgive 18 Dr. Grenita Lathan Remains as Interim Superintendent HISD 20 Health 26 5 Tips for Navigating Medicare Open Enrollment 24 Finances 24 Financial Planning Month: 5 Things you can do to take fear out of your finances

• Business Journal • Health & Wellness Journal • Community Journal • 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

25 Real Estate 25 Dallas/Fort Worth Back at #1 26 Why FALL is one of the BEST SEASONS to build a deck 28 Technology 28 Study on Blacks and Tech Reveals Digital Users Becoming Owners 29 Travel 29 2 Girls Who Travel take New York from Niagara to NYC in 48 Hours

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4 | November 2018 BUSINESS

BUSINESS

The changing face of the American student:

THE GROWTH OF ONLINE LEARNING By d-mars.com News Provider

JOB OPPORTUNITIES in manufacturing benefit America’s veterans By d-mars.com News Provider

ollowing their military service, many veterans feel overwhelmed by the transition to civilian life and the decision about what’s next. While veterans may feel that it’s challenging to identify civilian jobs that match their skills, there are job opportunities across the country and in their own backyard - they just need help finding them. One industry that is especially relevant for the veteran workforce is manufacturing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are more than 12,000 U.S. manufacturing jobs, and that number continues to grow. Manufacturing industry jobs require the strategy, logistics and leadership skillsets developed in the military. And these are companies that recognize the value, talent, education and work ethic that veterans add to the workforce. It’s up to employers to properly target veteran skillsets, and it’s up to veterans to use the resources available to them to find mutually beneficial job opportunities. Hankook Tire, for example, opened its first U.S. manufacturing plant in Clarksville, Tennessee, last year, less than 15 miles from Fort Campbell, a U.S. Army installation in Kentucky, and continues to hire local veterans to fill key positions as the company grows. Hankook has become an active employer of veterans in the Clarksville area, and as a result, more than 20 percent of the plant’s current employees are former U.S. military members. For many veteran employees, this job has provided them with a winning solution - a great job with growth opportunities in their local area. For many veterans, their biggest concern about transitioning out of the military is uprooting their families to find a good civilian job. This provides companies, in particular those with manufacturing facilities near military bases, with a huge opportunity to tailor their job descriptions, recruitment and training to veterans, to help them build successful careers and stay in their communities. Organizations like DAV (Disabled American Veterans) are dedicated to ensuring that the men and women who stood up for America have the tools, resources and opportunities they need to competitively enter the job market and secure meaningful employment. Those currently making the switch to civilian life, as well as those looking for new jobs, can take advantage of networking and employment resources at career fairs co-hosted with RecruitMilitary and Veteran Recruiting. You can honor and recognize veterans for their service through the Hankook Heroes program, which seeks stories about why veterans are heroes. Enter for a chance to receive a set of tires by submitting your story to www.hankookheroes.com by Nov. 12. A second set of tires will be donated to a local DAV chapter member who is instrumental in helping support his or her local veteran community. (BPT)

oday’s college students are just as likely to be moms and dads themselves, full-time and parttime employees or members of the U.S. armed forces. Many students juggle work and family, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, which found that 62 percent of students work full- or part-time, and 29 percent have at least one dependent. Needing flexibility and variety in course offerings, more students are turning to online learning to design a path that fits their lifestyle. As a result, online learning is seeing significant growth. A recent study found more than 6 million students take online courses across the U.S., and that number continues to rise. At ASU Online, programs have grown significantly, with a 60 percent increase in freshman enrollment since fall 2016 to more than 35,000 student s in over 175 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. As part of ASU EdPlus, created to

advance inclusion, efficiency and innovation, the online program implements technologies students need to succeed, paired with committed coaches and academic advisors. “At ASU, we work diligently to lay the right groundwork for each student at a personal and individual level because we know there is no silver bullet to student success,” said Leah Lommel, chief operating officer of ASU Online.

“Each learner is unique - what works for one may not work for another. This reality requires a tireless commitment to innovation on the part of higher education.” CAREER SUCCESS

Access to higher education remains the best pathway to career success, directly impacting employment opportunities and wages. The Center on Education and the

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Workforce found that bachelor’s degree holders earn 31 percent more than workers with an associate’s degree and 74 percent more than those with a high school diploma. Further, emerging technologies and the changing nature of industries have created a demand for new types of skilled workers. Higher ed programs need to be flexible and adaptable, allowing students to study during the hours - or minutes - that fit their schedules. With online programs, students can gain practical knowledge throughout their program that can be immediately applied on the job, making them even more valuable in their current roles. As online programs continue to expand, students are more closely able to map coursework to their desired field of work. Support structure is key to successAdoption of online learning is fueled by the fact that universities are discovering that it can be just as effective as faceto-face learning. However, support and guidance are essential to success. From strong facult y support to success coaches and career advisors, universities providing

high-touch student services throughout a student’s journey see the best outcomes. For students stepping back into school after many years, support and encouragement are key. The ASU Online Student Success Center, which pairs each student with a personal success coach, has seen enrollment scale five-fold. Coaches are a lifeline as students juggle life with studying and coursework. Facilitating conversations with students related to academic and personal goals, and career aspirations, coaches offer support, help students overcome obstacles and connect them to other campus resources. Online learning allows universities to meet students where they are, academically and personally. Today’s student is approaching education from a new standpoint, with different requirements and needs. The power of innovation in online learning means that each student can complete a degree in a way that was simply not possible before. Interested in learning more about ASU Online’s programs? Check out https://asuonline.asu.edu/online-degree-programs to explore the range of options ASU Online offers. (BPT)

November 2018 | 5 COMMUNITY

WHY PUBLIC TRANSIT is a key economic issue for growing cities By d-mars.com News Provider

e’d love to take our daily commute for granted. Except, we can’t. It is essential that we continue to make public transportation as efficient as possible for commuters. Over the decades, as a nation we have put investing in our transportation infrastructure, particularly our bus and rail systems, on the back burner. The result: Today’s public transit backlog sits at $90 billion, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. This is a missed opportunity to make our public transportation systems more efficient and our cities more productive, and it has serious economic implications. For instance, a lack of investment in our public transportation infrastructure costs the U.S. economy $340 billion in revenue over a six-year period, according to the study, “The Economic Cost of Failing to Modernize Public Transportation.” The study was conducted by the Economic Development Research Group Inc. for APTA. “Our failure as a nation to address America’s public transit modernization needs has wide-ranging negative effects,” says APTA president and CEO Paul P. Skoutelas, “because lost time in travel makes a region’s economy less productive.”

Failing to meet growing public transit needs As the number of U.S. workers continues to rise, so do the pressures on all areas of our infrastructure.

Since 1995, the U.S. has seen a 42 percent rise in public transit miles traveled. Despite that, needed improvements to our bus and rail assets have not kept pace with growth, the study concludes. Furthermore, the study shows how, as the U.S. fails to invest in the upkeep and maintenance in the nation’s public transit assets, it leads to service interruptions and lost time, which leads to lost wages. Dorval R. Carter Jr., president of the Chicago Transit Authority, oversees a legacy rail system that’s more than 100 years old, and faces the challenge of fixing or replacing aging infrastructure. “Parts of our rail system date back to the late 1800s,” Carter says, “we are facing an unmet - and growing capital need of nearly $13 billion and meeting it has become even more challenging given funding constraints not only at the federal level, but especially at the state and local levels.”

The impact of public transit on local economies Service interruptions and delays because America has not kept up with transit investments have a direct and immediate effect on the economy. If workers can’t get to work on time, it affects their productivity. When an aging road and rail system adds time and delays to commutes, that puts the brakes on economic output. “Based on recent surveys of our riders in Central Ohio, we know 70 percent of our customers rely on our service

to reach work,” says Joanna Pinkerton, president and CEO of the Central Ohio Transit Authority. “This is just one example of why it is vital to continue investment in public transportation infrastructure to support residents and the economy.” Pinkerton adds that over the next 30 years, Central Ohio’s public transit system will have to evolve to prepare for 1 million additional residents and 600,000 jobs. The quality of a city’s public transportation system is an important factor for companies that are looking to expand or relocate. For example, in 2014, Atlanta’s public transportation system played a role in State Farm Insurance’s bid to locate 8,000 new jobs there. One year ago, when Amazon asked cities to create proposals for its second headquarters, the online retailer indicated that it wanted to hear from cities with access to public transit. The good news is, Congress has allocated a spending increase for the 2018 fiscal year budget for public transit. “While this is a positive step forward in helping to address the nation’s aging public transit infrastructure,” Skoutelas says, “this momentum must be maintained by providing similar funding levels for 2019.” (BPT)

COMMUNITY

GET AT IT! By Noel Pinnock Contributing Writer

n this edition of D-mars, the emphasis has been placed on the essentials of giving back. I am a strong advocate of reciprocity and it is important upon everyone to understand that there is true value in helping others and giving back. In fact, many of you who will read this article are able to read because someone in your past (home, school, etc.) decided to reach out and help you. He or she took the time to teach the rudiments of discerning the alphabet, interpreting symbols, and reading for understanding and comprehension. It was not long before you mastered it and could understand the most complicated literature. Some of us decided that it was simply enough to learn the skill while others chose to pursue a career at helping others begin their reading journey. We call refer to those individuals as teachers. People oftentimes approach me after I give a speech or present a training session and ask me do I minister or preach at a church. I am always flattered; however, my typical response is two-fold and centered on the two types of ministers in the world, ministers by profession and influence. In either case, we are all ministers. Likewise,

we are all teachers because we have an influence (positive or negative) on everyone we come in contact with on a moment-bymoment basis. Susan Skog once wrote: “There’s a deep wave of grassroots giving back sweeping the country. A surge of people across all age groups is volunteering like never before. But giving back doesn’t mean that you don’t get anything in return. Helping others reach for a new day rejuvenates us in ways that another margarita-soaked vacation, more stuff, a fatter resume, or a supersized house can’t begin to. We want to feel useful. We want to find meaning. We want to feel this alive and on fire with possibility.” We do not need a season to begin giving back because if you have the opportunity to get up in the morning, then that is reason enough because when you do it unto the least of them, you are really doing it unto God...so, have fun giving back because one day someone will give back to you. Here are the top 10 reasons for giving back that were ranked by the many motives people have for giving back in their communities and beyond. 1. Make an impact: Looking to make a real, lasting difference in this world? Unlike other aspects of life, you may not be able to control, volunteering allows you to choose where and how to make a difference. It’s easy to get inspired with a cause you truly care about—and it’s rewarding to see your direct impact. 2. Strengthen communities: From cleaning

up a street to reading to kids at the local library, you can enhance your own life by improving the areas where you work, live and play. A strong community with a high quality of life means safer, healthier lives for you and those around you. 3. Meet others: Looking to broaden your network or find others with similar interests? Volunteering is a great outlet for meeting others. A local club or organization can put you face-to-face with people right in your community—plus, it’s easy to bond over a shared passion. You can create lasting friendships with those you may not have otherwise met in your day-to-day grind. 4. Improve your health: Yes! Volunteering is actually good for you. Studies have shown that volunteering makes people feel physically healthier, manage chronic health conditions and lower stress! 5. Take the lead: Often what a great effort needs most is a great leader. If you see a cause that needs a push or a group that needs a head—take the lead! Many find leadership rewarding in itself because of the opportunity to share their passion, value and inspiration with others. When you take a leadership role, you also have the ability shape the world around you in the ways you choose. 6. Share expertise: Everyone has a skill or experience from which someone else can benefit. If you aren’t putting your talents to their best use in your everyday life (or even if you are!), volunteering can be a prime way

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to share. Get out in your community and put your skills—from teaching to sewing—toward helping others. You may be surprised at how your own abilities sharpen when you share your knowledge. 7. Improve skills—or learn new ones: Want to learn basic carpentry, improve your cooking or discover how something works? Classes and courses can come at a cost—but volunteering is free! Why not begin your learning at no charge with an organization or opportunity where you can learn by doing? 8. Up your resume ante: Considering a career shift? Want to try out a new field before taking the leap? A volunteering gig can be a perfect way to fill a knowledge or employment gap. It can also be a valuable addition to a resume if you’re applying to a new job or graduate school program. 9. Find new opportunities: Doors open when you volunteer. You can widen your social network, discover an organization in your community or finally talk to the person you always see on the bus! Who knows: You may even stumble across your dream job by meeting your future colleague or next job reference. 10. Because it just feels good: We thought it was worth a mention!

After reading this…the only question you have to ask yourself is…what time do I get started…my response will be…#getatit!

6 | November 2018

In the Business Community…

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Pink Power: The Fight to Punch Out Breast Cancer and Promote Women’s Health Dr. Heather Brown Orthodontics hosted a “Women’s Wellness and Fitness Day” for Breast Cancer Awareness at the Power Center on Saturday, October 20. This event served as an opportunity to raise funds and honor survivors of breast cancer as well as other types of cancer. With over 200 attendees, they were able to raise $13,200, all of which will be donated to organizations that are leading the way in providing cancer resources and services to women. This event was made possible by several in-kind sponsors. Other organizations and businesses also showed their support by setting up booths filled with information and giveaways. Attendees were offered complimentary breakfast and a 45-minute workout boot camp lead by renowned fitness instructor Reggie Collier. Breast cancer survivors were honored with medals, as well as with encouraging words from several prominent women in leadership including Judge Maria Jackson, State Representative Shawn Thierry and a personal phone call from Representative Sheila Jackson Lee. “This is the work of God and we are just vessels being used to carry out His earthly work,” Heather Brown said. “Stay tuned for the 2019 Women’s Wellness and Fitness Day!”

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8 | November 2018 COMMUNITY

The Best of Thanksgiving Basketball 17th Annual Texas High School Jamboree Presented by Rashard Lewis Basketball By Nelson Brand Sports News Provider

his year, like every year d-mars. com is teaming up with Nelson Brand Sports and the Rashard Lewis Basketball organization to sponsor the Thanksgiving High School Basketball Rivalry Week, which kicks off with Texas High School Jamboree, now hosted at one site: Episcopal High School on November 23-24, 2018. The Texas High School Jamboree was created as a platform for student-athletes who are not usually afforded the opportunity to be seen by college coaches. This event gives athletes the chance to compete at a high level for college scholarships in front of college coaches and media outlets. The Texas High School Jamboree is a full two days of 45 top-tier high school basketball programs at one high school locations. As President of Nelson Brand Sports, Rick Nelson’s mission is to provide a positive environment for academics and the game of basketball for young men and women. He recognized early on the value of using basketball as a tool to further one’s education. Nelson played point guard on scholarship for

Texas College, winning two back to back National College Championships. He earned his Bachelor and Master degree from Prairie View A&M University. We have team up with the Rashard Lewis Basketball organization and they have done a great job of creating a platform that truly “Enhances the lives of athletes from the young and innocent kids who play in pursuit of dreams, love and passion for the game to the professional athletes who play for all the same reasons”. “In sports, the principle of working as a team is essential to achieving championship success,” says President and CEO of d-mars.com, Keith J. Davis, Sr. “With this partnership between d-mars. com, Nelson Brand Sports, TYBL, Hunt & Hunt, Rashard Lewis and Sports Mix Live, we are setting out to show the community that there are ways to achieve your goals in life, whether it is through entrepreneurship or athletics. Strong team players make some of the best leaders.” For more information or to get involved with Nelson Brand Sports, please email rick@ nelsonbrandsports.com or visit www.nelsonbrandsports.com.

11/23 FRIDAY ALKEK GYM

11/24 SATURDAY ALKEK GYM

11/23 FRIDAY CRUM GYM

11/24 SATURDAY CRUM GYM

10:00 am - John Cooper HS vs Saint Thomas Episcopal HS 11:30 am - St. John’s HS vs Alvin Manvel HS 1:00 pm - Pearland Dawson HS vs Houston Milby HS 2:30 pm - Houston Bellaire HS vs Beaumont Westbrook HS 4:00 pm - Legacy School of Science vs Louisiana New Iberia 5:30 pm - Spring Dekaney HS vs Beaumont United HS 7:00 pm - Port Arthur Memorial HS vs Dallas Lancaster HS 8:30 pm - Channelview HS vs Tomball Concordia HS 10:00 am HCYA vs Louisiana St. Thomas More HS 11:30 am Cy- Ridge HS vs Houston Heights HS 1:00 pm Houston Wheatley HS vs Houston Kinkaid HS 2:30 pm Richmond George Ranch HS vs San Antonio Sam Houston 4:00 pm Redemption Life Christian vs Dallas I-Entrepreneurial 5:30 pm Houston St. Thomas HS vs Humble Summer Creek HS 7:00 pm Westbury Christian School vs Houston Lamar HS 8:30 pm Houston Westbury HS vs Pasadena Sam Rayburn HS

10:00 am Cy- Ridge HS vs Louisiana New Iberia HS 11:30 am Houston St. Thomas HS vs Richmond George Ranch HS 1:00 pm Fort Bend Marshall HS vs Humble Atascocita HS 2:30 pm Houston Bellaire HS vs Fort Bend Bush HS 4:00 pm Spring Dekaney HS vs Dickinson HS 5:30 pm Houston Yates HS vs Dallas Lancaster HS 7:00 pm Houston Episcopal HS vs Louisiana St. Thomas More 8:30 pm Katy Morton Ranch vs Dallas Kimball HS 10:00 am Texas Christian Prep vs Dallas I- Entrepreneurial 11:30 am Legacy School of Science vs Redemption Life Christian 1:00 pm St. John’s HS vs Houston Heights HS 2:30 pm Westbury Christian School vs San Antonia Sam Houston 4:00 pm Saint Thomas Episcopal vs Episcopal School of Dallas 5:30 pm Houston Milby HS vs Houston Kinkaid HS 7:00 pm Galena Park North Shore HS vs Strake Jesuit Preparatory 8:30 pm Tomball Concordia Lutheran vs Cy- Spring HS

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November 2018 | 9 COMMUNITY

AARP’s “BE THE DIFFERENCE. VOTE.” stresses the importance of voting in this year’s midterms By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Contributor

ext month’s fast-approaching midterm elections count as one of the most consequential in a lifetime, according to political scholar Norman Ornstein. The folks at AARP “wholeheartedly concur,” and not just in word, but also by actions. The organization, which was founded in 1958 on the principles of promoting independence, dignity and purpose for older adults, has launched a campaign titled, “Be the Difference. Vote.” AARP doesn’t endorse candidates or parties, they focus instead on policy that affects older adults. “‘Be the Difference. Vote.’ is a non-partisan campaign whose goal is mobilizing African Americans voters — and all voters 50 and older — to exercise their power and vote,” says Edna Kane-Williams, the senior vice president of Multicultural Leadership at AARP. “Critical issues like Medicare, Social Security, prescription drugs and family caregiving are on the line and older voters need to show up and protect what they’ve earned.” Launched in May, the “Be the Difference. Vote,” campaign relies on studies that show voters 50 and older are the most reliable. The multifaceted campaign seeks to encourage the largest possible turnout of older voters to the polls during

the midterm election, Nov. 6. This election places issues like Medicare, Social Security, financial security and caregiving – topics of particular interest to older voters — front and center. Kane-Williams referenced U.S. Census statistics that reveal that only 57 percent of all U.S. citizens between ages 25 and 44 voted in the 2012 general election, compared to 68 percent of those between 45 and 64. Among African Americans, 65 percent of individuals between 25 and 44 voted, compared to 72 percent who were between the ages of 45 and 64. African Americans will be a deciding voting bloc in key races across the country, especially in Pennsylvania, Florida, North Carolina, Virginia and other swing states, according to multiple political experts. However, forecasters also predict potential Black voter dropout, a serious issue. In 2016, the Black voter turnout rate declined for the first time in 20 years in a presidential election, falling to 59.6 percent after reaching a record high of 66.6 percent in 2012, according to the Pew Research Center. “We are at a moment in which important decisions need to be made on matters key to the lives of older Americans,” AARP editors noted in the October 2018 AARP Bulletin. “Some are obvious, like the future funding and structure of Medicare and our health care system,” the editors wrote. “At the same time, many states are grappling with issues related to worker discrimination, retirement savings, underfunded pensions, Medicaid, caregiving and more. Those we put into office could shape the resolutions of these issues for decades to come.” In a colorful graphic for the magazine, A A R P e d itors outlined w h a t ’s a t sta ke, including 35 of the 100 U.S. Senate seats; all 435 seats in the U.S.

House of Representatives; and 36 of 50 states will elect a governor. Nearly 300 state appellate judges, including 71 state Supreme Court justices will be elected or appointed; 25 of America’s largest cities will elect mayors; and 82 percent of state legislator positions, totaling 6,070 seats in 87 legislative chambers, are up for grabs. AARP’s campaign is important, and the organization listed 10 ways in which the midterm elections will affect older Americans: 1. Shoring up Social Security. 2. Rising Drug Prices. 3. Medicare Funding. 4. Medicaid: Grow or slow it? 5. The future of Health Insurance. 6. Bolstering Retirement Savings. 7. Lower Retirement Taxes. 8. Fixing Pension Shortfalls. 9. More Help for Caregivers. 10. Fraud Targets. Through the “Be the Difference. Vote.” campaign, AARP has used its website as a one-stop portal for voters to get information about the election, including issue briefings, polling results and voter guides. AARP has pledged to conduct polls of 50-plus voters across the country and in battleground states, tracking voter sentiment on key issues. Throughout the initiative, the organization has delivered information on issues and election news, and has notified members of local events, tele-town halls and candidate forums. Candidates are pressured to address issues of vital importance to older Americans in campaign speeches, literature and advertising messages, based upon the input received from AARP tracking polls and member communications. AARP has also applied advanced data analytics to target turnout of 50-plus voters in major races across the country, while reaching out to African American and Latino voters — especially in races where they represent a key or deciding voting bloc. “AARP encourages all voters, regardless of their ages, to take part in the ‘Be the Difference. Vote.’ campaign by signing AARP’s pledge to vote, using the voting tool to ensure they have the information they need to vote, and learning where the candidates stand on issues that matter to them and their families,” Kane-Williams said. Voters can sign the pledge and get more information at aarp.org/vote. (AARP)

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10 | November 2018 COMMUNITY

T he Early bird catches the Worm

Christine grew up in New Orleans, Louisiana. She was born into a family of fishermen that made a living catching delicious dinner for local buyers. Christine would dread summer seasons when she was out from school and her dad would wake her early in the morning to catch fish and other seafood. Her mornings were early and her nights were late as she spent most of her day catching fish and then cleaning it for customers. She could only dream of the day she would be old enough to be out in the world on her own and spending her summer mornings doing more of nothing. It was her last year in high school and her father was so excited to pass the torch and have her be a part of the family tradition, but Christine had other plans. She was anxious about telling her dad the truth. Early morning fishing and food preparing was not for her. She built up enough courage to break the news explaining her reasoning to her dad and he understood. Shortly after graduation,

Christine went off to college. Her transition was difficult and she was facing some challenges on her new journey. She would tell her dad that there are never any seats in class, shet can never find parking, she is always tardy for class and it was starting to affect her grades. Her dad then explained, “The early bird catches the worm,” in order to be ahead you have to go beyond what is expected. He went on to parallel that he wakes up earlier than others to catch fish in order to provide for his family and the families of the community. If he sleeps late, other fishermen will beat him to the stream and take all of the fish. He asked, “If I get up late, what would I have for my family and others to eat?” Christine then realized that getting up early is essential to prepare for what’s to come. If she could arrive a little earlier than other students, she could get a seat, a parking spot and maybe have some time to study before class.

Did You Know? NTOZAKE SHANGE (October 18, 1948 - October 27, 2018) Pioneering poet and playwright Ntozake Shange died on the morning of October 27 at an assisted living facility in Bowie, Maryland. She was best known for her much celebrated Obie Award-winning play, “For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide/When the Rainbow is Enuf.” Shange was also the author of the novels Sassafrass, Cypress & Indigo, Liliane, and Betsey Brown, a novel about a Black girl who runs away from home. Shange was also awarded a Guggenheim Foundation fellowship an in April 2016, Barnard College announced the acquisition of Shange’s papers. But her most celebrated and famous work, was the 20-part poem depicting the lives of women of color. The poem was made into the stage play and a published book in 1977.

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12 | November 2018 CAREER

What does the shortfall of truck drivers mean for the economy? OTHER BENEFITS OF BEING A DRIVER?

By d-mars.com News Provider

he open road, independence and the flexibility to work how and when you want. Reasons why trucking is a great job To truly understand the impact the trucking industry has on our economy, walk into any business, retail shop or grocery store and take a look around. Nearly everything you see was delivered there by a truck. In fact, according to the American Trucking Associations’ (ATA) Freight Transportation Forecast, 70 percent of all freight in the U.S. is handled by trucks. It is awe-inspiring to realize one industry has such an enormous impact on everything we do, purchase and consume in our everyday lives. Quite simply, trucks keep America moving, and without them, America stops. Imagine going to your favorite grocery store to pick up your family’s dinner and seeing the shelves empty, or stopping by the corner hardware store for light bulbs only to find they’re not available. If it’s not during the aftermath of a weather disaster, we can’t readily imagine such a scenario happening in this country. That’s because 3.5 million professional drivers are always on the job, working day and night to make the deliveries that keep our economy humming. But, it’s getting more and more difficult for the industry to keep up with demand. There’s a severe shortage of professional truck drivers on the road today, and it’s expected to get even worse. The ATA estimates that the industry will face a 175,000-driver shortfall by 2026. Ask any professional driver and they’ll tell you the same story: They get headhunting emails and calls from recruiters every day, and their own companies are so short-staffed they need to put in extra shifts just to cover all of the routes. That’s why the ATA is partnering with Pilot Flying J, the largest network of travel centers in North America, to raise awareness of the profession, recruit new drivers, and celebrate the tremendous contributions of professional drivers to our nation’s economy. It’s ironic that there’s a shortage in this profession, because those same drivers who remain committed to the industry and to keeping our economy moving will tell you how much they love the job. “My father was a driver and as far back as I can remember, truck driving is all I’ve ever wanted to do,” says Steve Brand, a professional driver who has spent 27 years with FedEx Freight. Brand is a member of the ATA America’s Road Team, a national public outreach program of professional truck drivers who share superior driving skills and safety records. “Trucks move America forward and it’s a great feeling knowing I have a small part in that.”

• Independence. When you’re in a big rig, nobody is looking over your shoulder telling you how to do your job. It’s like being your own boss. • Freedom. If an office job isn’t for you, trucking is a perfect choice. You’re out on the open road, and not tied to a desk. • Flexibility. There isn’t just one kind of driving. Want to see the country driving from coast to coast? You can do that. Want to come home to your family every night? You can do that, too, and myriad options in between. • Pay. ATA’s recent Driver Compensation Study found that the average salary for a truck driver ranges from $53,000 to $86,000 depending on the type of employer and type of equipment operated. Coupled with not having the crushing student debt that college gradu ates are carrying around, it makes for a very good living.

Opportunities. Since the industry is hurting for drivers, it’s a job seeker’s market out there. Recent grads from driving schools are in high demand, and can pick and choose the job that’s right for them. Brand counsels potential recruits to choose a reputable school for proper training and then seek out a top-rated company, or find a company that has its own school.

“I go to bed happy and wake up happy knowing I’m making a difference,” he says.

Pilot Flying J is making a difference, too. As part of its partnership with the ATA, Pilot Flying J recently announced a $60,000 philanthropic gift to the ATA’s Trucking Cares Foundation to help support professional drivers and the future of the industry. “Hardworking professional drivers make many sacrifices to keep our economy moving and our ways of life possible,” said Ken Parent, president of Pilot Flying J. “As we face a growing driver shortage, our hope is that this contribution will help support the Trucking Cares Foundation’s mission to improve the safety, security and sustainability of the trucking industry and contribute to the future growth of the industry through education and training.” To learn more about becoming a professional driver, visit the ATA at www.trucking.org. (BPT)

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14 | November 2018 EDUCATION

COMMENTARY: Public Service Loan

Forgiveness Program Fails to Forgive Maryland, and New York. In part the complaint states, “The PSLF program is life-or-death critical to America’s public servants who otherwise would never be able to overcome their student debt burden...Navient has not been living up to its obligation to help vulnerable borrowers get on the best possible repayment plan and qualify for PSLF. Instead, Navient has harmed and continues to harm millions of hard-working public servants by routinely providing false information to these borrowers preventing them from qualifying for the PSLF program.”

By Charlene Crowell NNPA Newswire Contributor

cross the nation and multiple generations, student loan debt now surpasses $1.5 trillion. The anxiety shared by borrowers from all walks of life seeking ways to lift this unsustainable consumer debt affects multiple life dimensions. In some cases, these burdensome debts threaten the future of America’s middle class. Two recent developments hold potential for struggling consumers. On September 28, the independent and nonpartisan General Accounting Office (GAO) released findings on the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. Eligible student loan borrowers who have dedicated their careers to public service and met other requirements, such as 10 years of qualifying payments, can have their loan balances forgiven. The first step towards forgiveness requires that interested borrowers are initially screened to certify their employment and loans meet threshold criteria. Once certified, borrowers submit a loan forgiveness application for a final check before forgiveness is approved. Although PSLF legislation was enacted in 2007, September 2017 was the first time that borrowers became eligible for the application for forgiveness. And according to the GAO findings, forgiveness approvals are minute compared to those who qualify.

As of June 2018, more than 1.2 million student loan borrowers requested to be certified, with 890,000 ultimately certified eligible. 28,000 applied for loan forgiveness, thinking that they had met the 10- year payment and employment requirements. Shockingly, of these, only 96 — less than one-half of one percent — received forgiveness. According to the GAO report, “Education has used various outreach methods to inform borrowers about PSLF, but the large number of denied borrowers suggests that many are still confused by the program requirements.” In response, the Department of Education has now agreed to all GAO recommendations. These include: comprehensive guidance for borrowers and servicers alike; more information about qualifying employers;

standardized payment information; and enough detailed information to help identify payment counting errors. In a related but separate action on October 3, the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) filed a federal class-action lawsuit alleging that the nation’s largest student loan servicer, Navient, misled borrowers, preventing some of those in public service professions from accessing PSLF, just to boost its own profits. The action was brought by nine A FT members f rom four states: Florida, Ca lifornia,

By deceiving borrowers with false information, misrepresentations, and fraudulent conduct, the complaint also cites several other concerns: • Navient is responsible for servicing over $205.9 billion in federal student loans, owed by approximately 6.1 million accounts; • Since 1983, the cost of higher education has risen more than 700 percent -- five times greater than inflation, and even faster than healthcare costs; and • From 1996 to 2015, teacher pay fell by $30 per week while pay for other college graduates increased by $124, according to the Economic Policy Institute “No one goes into public service to strike it rich; they do it out of a deep commitment to students, patients and the public good,” said Randi Weingarten, AFT President. “But we cannot attract the best and brightest to these careers if promises of debt relief are deliberately broken.” For much of Black America, still-soaring student debt brings yet another financial hurdle to overcome – in addition to other disproportionate and historic struggles to obtain the full benefits of being a citizen and consumer. According to Jason N. Houle of Dartmouth College, and Fenaba R. Addo with the University of Wisconsin at Madison, disproportionate Black student debt makes for an even more fragile Black Middle Class. “We theorize that racial disparities in student loan debt accumulation and repayment are a function of racialized economic hardship and discrimination across the life course,” wrote the two scholars in a new report for the Russell Sage Foundation. “Some have argued that the student loan market is not unlike the mortgage market, where Blacks lack access to fair credit and are disproportionately steered toward high-interest loans that are difficult to repay.” The esteemed scholars may be right. But in neighborhoods across the country Black people do not need to theorize. We live that agony every day and nearly every year. Perhaps it is time to shift from research and data points to activist engagement. To put it another way, what are we prepared to do about it? Charlene Crowell is the Center for Responsible Lending’s Communications Deputy Director. She can be reached at Charlene.crowell@ responsiblelending.org. (BPT)

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STRENGTH THR THE BLACK PROFESSIONALS ALLIANCE is hosting its 9th Annual Holiday Social and Toy Drive at the Revention Music Center on November 29 at 6 p.m. This event is an opportunity for black professionals and entrepreneurs to come together and collect toys for hundreds of children across the Houston area. Carmen Herrera of National Sales Network and Gene Padgett of National Association of Black Accountants have lead this event since its inception in 2009.

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ROUGH NUMBERS BL ACK PROFESSIONALS GIVE BACK By d-mars.com News Provider

HOW DID THIS EVENT GET STARTED? Herrera: This event was birthed in December 2008. Gene and I were

at a holiday party for the National Sales Network, which I was president of at the time, and we were talking about how dreadful our holiday parties usually are, with all the money you spend and not a great turn out. We began discussing the idea of doing something together and said “let’s collaborate and do an event together.” From there we did a joint event with National Sales Network, National Association of Black Accountants, Black MBAs and Black HR Professionals. d These four organizations got together and put on a networking event. It was such a phenomenal turnout, with such excitement, so we decided not to stop there. That is when we held a holiday event in December 2009. It was our first holiday event at the House of Blues, and again it was such an overwhelming response that we knew we were on to something. And now this is our ninth year of hosting this event.

HOW HAS THIS EVENT GROWN AND CHANGED OVER THE YEARS? Padgett: Our first holiday event was held at the House of Blues in 2009. We had four organizations that came together to put on the event and 125 guests in attendance. The next year we grew to 400 attendees and added an additional four organizations. It just kind of snowballed from there. Last year we reached 25 organizations that participated and almost 2,000 attendees.

WHAT IS SPECIAL ABOUT THIS YEAR’S EVENT? Herrera: This year is actually going to be a really exciting year. Of course, we think it will be our biggest yet because it keeps growing and growing, but we also invited a special guest, a dear friend to the organizations, myself and Gene: Dr. George C. Fraser. He is a worldrenowned speaker and author and is very dedicated to the African American community and the success of what we do in the business and financial world. We’re also going to have other fun things, so everything really is coming around.

WHAT OTHER ACTIVITIES DOES THIS EVENT INCLUDE?

the Blue Triangle Multicultural Center, Toys for Tots, the Nehemiah Center, Women and Children Center, Bread of Life and many more. We try to spread it around to different organizations to benefit kids in the city that may not have a Christmas.

WHY IS THIS SOMETHING YOU CHOOSE TO PUT ON YEAR AFTER YEAR? Herrera: Gene and I share the same passion for our community, and we want to do something to bring unity and make a bigger impact. We’re really passionate about bringing African American professionals and entrepreneurs together and giving back to the community. We will continue to do this. We know the holiday season is a special time, and not everybody is as fortunate as we are to be able to provide gifts or have someone to spend time with. Some of these children may not even have their parents in their lives because they may be in jail or have passed away. We want to do what we can during this season

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD? Padgett: I think Carmen touched on it a bit, but this event generates so much power in the room. We want to use this to do more things in the community not just at Christmas time but year-round. I think we have so much strength in numbers, and in today’s political climate it is good to show Black professionals coming together and doing something good. MR. D-MARS: We believe that as business owners and professionals we have a responsibility to give back. Through doing the marketing and partnering with this organization, we want to do our part by making sure everybody in this city knows about this event. We want people to know that black organizations are coming together for a good cause and making a difference. d-mars.com is so thankful and proud to have been a part of this event since its beginning. Through the 19 years that d-mars.com has been in business, we have made it our mission to support African American businesses and professionals. Being able to serve at an event that has the same mission is a match made in heaven.

Padgett: Because we have gotten so large, we will actually use the entire facility for the event. We’ll have a toy collection area where, in the past, we’ve collected between 1,000-1,200 toys. We’ll have a VIP and sponsors area as well as a VIP and sponsors after party in the Jack Daniels room which is below the Revention Music Center. Herrera: In addition to the event, we’re also going to make a weekend of it since Dr. Fraser will be in town. On Saturday we will be hosting a reception for some of the organizations and key stakeholders of the city. We are making it a Black Professional Alliance Weekend.

HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHICH CHILDREN’S ORGANIZATIONS THE TOYS GO TO? Padgett: Because we get so many toys, we probably add five or six other organizations to give to every year. Each year, we give toys to Special Guest Dr. George C. Fraser Chairman and CEO, FraserNet

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18 | November 2018 EDUCATION

Dr. Grenita Lathan Remains as Interim Superintendent HISD By d-mars.com News Provider

The Houston Independent School District Board of Education announced that Dr. Grenita Lathan will remain as the interim superintendent of HISD, the largest school district in Texas. During a press conference at the Hattie Mae White Educational Support Center, trustees announced that they have mutually agreed to consider the reinstatement of Dr. Lathan as interim superintendent and the rescinding of… [the] vote to appoint Dr. Abelardo Saavedra to the position. “We are committed to working together as a board for the benefit of our students, and we are unified in our efforts to build a better governance structure for our children,” HISD Board President Rhonda Skillern-Jones said. “We are confident that Dr. Lathan is the right person to lead the seventh-largest school district in the nation as our interim, and we thank the public for their encouragement and support.”

“We, the Board of Trustees of the Houston Independent School District, would like to apologize to Dr. Grenita Lathan, our students, the community at large, the parents and families, all HISD employees, and our business and community partners,” Trustee Diana Davila said. “We will work to improve our behavior as adults, treat each other with respect, and embark on the right focus of doing all we can to improve academic achievement for all our students,” Trustee Jolanda Jones said. Dr. Lathan will remain as interim superintendent of HISD while the executive search firm Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates conducts a national search for a permanent superintendent. Dr. Lathan will have the opportunity to apply for the permanent superintendent position. “My focus is and will always be the education of our children,” Dr. Lathan said. “We have a lot of work ahead of us, and we need to move forward to provide every single student in HISD with the same opportunities to succeed.” (HISD)

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20 | November 2018 HEALTH

5 TIPS FOR NAVIGATING MEDICARE OPEN ENROLLMENT

By d-mars.com News Provider

edicare Open Enrollment is in full swing. For most people enrolled in Medicare, the annual Open Enrollment period (Oct. 15 through Dec. 7) is the only opportunity to make changes to your existing Medicare coverage. Even if you are happy with your Medicare coverage, you should take the time to explore your options. There may be a plan that is better suited to your health and financial needs that could save you hundreds of dollars in the upcoming year. During Medicare Open Enrollment, Medicare beneficiaries can switch Part D prescription drug plans; switch Medicare Advantage plans, which offer health (and often drug) coverage through private insurers; switch from Original Medicare, administered by the federal government, to Medicare Advantage; or switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare. All changes made to coverage during open enrollment take effect on Jan. 1, 2019. Dan Klein, president and chief executive officer of the Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation, an independent charitable organization dedicated to helping people afford out-of-pocket costs for prescribed medications, offers the following tips for navigating Medicare Open Enrollment. 1. Do your homework Take the time to shop around and understand the benefits and costs of each plan so that you can find the coverage that works best for you. Changes to your health status, doctors or healthcare providers, prescription drugs or budget may mean that your current plan

is no longer the most cost-effective choice. Insurance companies can also make annual changes to their plans that might affect the drugs covered, provider networks and your out-of-pocket costs.

2. Make sure your doctors and providers are in-network

Before selecting a plan, it’s smart to check that your preferred doctors, hospitals and pharmacies are in the plan’s provider network. If you visit a doctor, hospital or pharmacy that is outside of the network, you will likely have to pay more. If your insurance company has changed your plan’s provider network for next year, you may want to use Open Enrollment to switch to a plan that will include your current doctors, hospitals and pharmacies in-network to lower your medical costs.

3. Make sure your medications are covered

Medicare Part D helps cover the cost of prescription drugs. Many Medicare Advantage plans provide prescription drug coverage as well. It’s important to ensure that your plan covers the medications you need and that the plan’s network of

pharmacies makes it convenient for you to access your drugs. Switching prescription drug coverage, or even adding it for the first time, can help make the critical medical treatments you need less expensive.

4. Assess if the plan is a good fit for your budget There may be changes to Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D plans that affect your out-of-pocket costs. Out-of-pocket costs are your expenses for medical care that aren’t reimbursed by insurance. When selecting a plan, you should consider what you will be responsible for paying under the plan, including the deductible, out-of-pocket limit, co-pays and co-insurance.

5. Determine how you will pay for your out-ofpocket costs

With rising deductibles, premiums, co-pays and coinsurance, the inability to pay is a growing problem for people with Medicare. There may be assistance available to you if you cannot afford the out-of-pocket costs for your prescription medications. You should research your options now. If you have limited income and resources, you may qualify for a federal Medicare Low Income Subsidy (LIS) - also known as Extra Help - to help pay for your prescription drug costs. You may also be eligible for a patient co-payment assistance program like PAN that provides people with financial assistance to cover outof-pocket costs for their medical treatments. You can learn more about PAN and patient assistance charities by visiting PANFoundation.org. By taking the time to re-evaluate your existing coverage and learn about all the options, you can save significantly on your healthcare costs next year. (BPT)

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22 | November 2018

Turn and Test On Sunday, November 4, turn back your clocks and test your smoke alarms to help keep your family safer this season.

You’re a valued member of the Red Cross family, and we want you and your loved ones to be as safe as possible. Please remember to test your smoke alarms, replace dead batteries and practice your two-minute escape plan. Every day, seven people die in U.S. home fires. Join us in making communities safer by sharing this information with your family and friends.

A United Way agency

124408 10/18

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24 | November 2018 FINANCES

Financial Planning Month: 5 things you can do to take the fear out of your finances By d-mars.com News Provider

here is no better time than now to face your financial fears and make actionable changes to get yourself on track when it comes to managing your money. While nearly half of Americans (47 percent) find the prospect of financial planning scary, it doesn’t have to be. If you find yourself constantly postponing a review of your finances and feel your current money situation is more out of order than ever, turns out you are not alone. In fact, according to a new survey by Marcus by Goldman Sachs(R), the overwhelming majority of Americans (82 percent) wish they felt more in control of their finances. By following a simple checklist and exploring options that fit your specific circumstances, you’ll be well on your way to making the most out of your money and achieving financial well-being by Halloween. 1. Get out of credit card debt. First and foremost, be conscious of any revolving credit card debt you are currently carrying, and the fees, variable rates and payment terms that may be draining your bank account. A debt consolidation loan allows you to combine your debts into one consistent, easy-to-manage monthly statement. Debt Consolidation Loans are available with no-fees and fixed-rates through Marcus by Goldman Sachs(R). 2. Conduct an assessment of

your service providers. Take a look at your monthly expenses and see if there are ways you can lower them by switching to different providers or calling your current provider to re-examine your rates. Whether it is your car insurance or your cable and internet bill, a quick search online and a call to lower your rates could limit your monthly expenses. You should also consider easy-to-use personal finance apps, like Clarity Money, that allow you to track your finances at your fingertips and make it easier for you to spend, borrow and save. Clarity Money can even suggest subscriptions you could cancel and help you set up savings for specific goals, so you could be more in control of your finances by the time next October rolls around. 3. Get ready for tax season. With changes to the tax law, you should take the time to prepare for next year’s taxes by analyzing potential benefits you may be able to take advantage of and figuring out what deductions you might no longer be able to claim.

By getting out in front of tax season early, you can be ready for the impacts it may have and be able to file earlier, which could lead to receiving any refund earlier as well. 4. Maximize your 401(k). If your company matches employee contributions to a 401(k) account, it’s a good idea to take advantage of this and make sure you are doing everything you can to build up your 401(k). Consider making changes that could put yourself in a better place to have a nest egg ready for retirement, like increasing your contributions by 1 percent a year. 5. Check Your APY. Lastly, make sure you are saving (and growing) your money strategically by checking the annual percentage yield (APY) on your savings account. Make your money work for you by exploring savings account options with higher returns, rather than storing your money in accounts with interest rates near zero. High-yield online savings accounts, like those offered by Marcus by Goldman Sachs, can provide high rates so you can start making money instead of storing it. Marcus offers a rate of 1.90 percent APY on its Online Savings Account, which is 4X the National Savings Average, requires no minimum deposit to open and has no fees.

This Financial Planning Month take the time to explore reasonable options that address your specific needs and put you back in control of your financial future. (BPT)

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November 2018 | 25 REAL ESTATE

Dallas/Fort Worth Back at #1: First Time in 40th Anniversary of Nation’s Leading Report for Real Estate Investors By d-mars.com News Provider

alent and economic diversity are the leading themes running through this year’s top cities in the latest Emerging Trends in Real Estate® 2019, released today by PwC US and the Urban Land Institute (ULI). Dallas/Fort Worth is back in the #1 spot due to its young workforce and high business start-up activity, while Brooklyn (#2), Orlando (#4) and Tampa (#10) make the top 10 for the first time in the report’s 40-year history. Investors find Brooklyn attractive for its urban, industrial appeal and the trend of finding a “last mile” for e-commerce delivery and Orlando and Tampa/St. Petersburg for their demographic growth, friendly business climate and attractive cost structure. Raleigh-Durham (#3), Nashville (#5), Austin (#6) and Boston (#7) round out the list as investors follow the STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) jobs, projected to grow 73% faster than the broader job market through 2026, with annual wages more than double the average, in these tech heavy markets. In its 40 years, Emerging Trends in Real Estate® has grown with the market it covers. From its early days examining the $1.2 billion institutional real estate investment market, ETRE has expanded to coverage of the $7.0 trillion marketplace analysing REITs, real estate private equity funds, commercial mortgage backed securities, mortgage debt funds and crowd sourced investments. “Over the past four decades we have seen an explosion in the reach of the real estate market. Once held only by institutional investors, real estate is now democratized through REITs,” notes Mitch Roschelle, PwC Partner and the report’s Co-Publisher. “Today individuals--foreign and domestic--can invest side-by-side, with the institutions, in everything from housing to complex debt transitions. This deep access to capital has propelled the market forward.” “The key word for real estate’s future performance is transformation – in technology, in generational choices, and in a reconfiguration of preferences related to geography and property types,” said ULI Global Chief Executive Officer W. Edward Walter. “The market shift, which will continue to play out over the next several years, is being fuelled by consumers and tenants changing the way they shop and live, what they demand of their spaces, and by new technologies that will enable real estate to be more flexible and responsive to users’ needs.” The Top 10 Markets in Emerging Trends in Real Estate® 2019: 1. Dallas/Fort Worth, TX 2. Brooklyn, NY 3. Raleigh-Durham, NC 4. Orlando, FL 5. Nashville, TN

6. Austin, TX 7. Boston, MA 8. Denver, CO 9. Charlotte, NC 10. Tampa, FL

Top Trends from the Report Include: Amenities Gone Wild: New office buildings and multifamily assets are going wellbeyond the fitness center and recreational areas to include child and pet care, bike storage and even a “curated garden” growing fresh fruits and vegetables for residents. Retail Space is Not Dead: The rumors of retail’s demise may have been exaggerated. With low prices, it’s a good time to look at retail space to repurpose to accommodate alternative uses such as urgent care medical facilities, health and fitness providers, restaurants, financial services and entertainment venues. 18-Hour Suburbs: The generation that drove the urbanization trend and 18-hour cities, may finally be ready to move to “the burbs.” As the oldest millennials reach their mid-30s, they are looking to buy homes that meet the right criteria with urban amenities such as walkable neighborhoods in proximity to shopping and entertainment along with green space and good schools. Disrupters are Disrupting Real Estate: From package delivery to bike sharing to ride-hailing services, everything from lobbies to sidewalks to roads are more congested. This B2C activity is one of the forces behind “amenity creep” and an issue residential and commercial property investors need to watch closely. ESG Practices Important to Investors: Sensitivity to environmental, social, governance (ESG) issues has increased for U.S. real estate regardless of the direction of national policy. Funds with an ESG investment plan in place could see an advantage in attracting capital especially from institutional and international investors as well as public REITs. Last Mile Industrial Development Needed to Meet E-commerce Demands: With the expansion of e-commerce far from over, the need for facilities to accommodate a denser distribution network is acute and will only increase over time, especially infill opportunities, providing “last mile” breakbulk sites. Easing into the Future: The challenge to real estate markets is a prospective slowdown in demand, varying across geography and property types. But slower growth does not mean there won’t be opportunities. Functional obsolescence in all kinds of space, the need for affordable housing and responses to technologies will all require new investment and development. Now in its 40th year, Emerging Trends in Real Estate® is one of the most highly regarded annual industry outlooks for the real estate and land use industry. It includes interviews and survey responses from nearly 2,400 leading real estate experts, including investors, fund managers, developers, property companies, lenders, brokers, advisers and consultants. (BPT)

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26 | November 2018 REAL ESTATE

Why FALL is one of the BEST SEASONS to build a deck By d-mars.com News Provider

s the weather starts to shift and the crisp air settles in, your first inclination might be to head indoors, cozy up with a blanket and save that deck project you’ve been researching for next year. Not so fast. While home improvement stores sell spring and summer as the seasons for all things outdoor home improvement, fall is actually one of the best times to build a deck. Here are five reasons you should take advantage of the transitional months and make your deck dreams a reality.

secure top-rated contractors and negotiate a convenient start date. And with full project crews, many decks are built at a quicker pace. 3. Take advantage of seasonal savings Fall marks the start of the off-season for decking. Whether brands are clearing inventory to make way for new products or contractors are offering incentives to keep their schedule full, there are plenty of seasonal opportunities to save on decking materials and installation costs. By taking advantage of these discounts, you can create your dream deck under budget. You might even free up some money for a few splurges like a trellis or fire pit.

1. Use fresh summer memories to plan to perfection With memories of backyard barbecues and lazy summer days still fresh in your mind, fall is the perfect time to evaluate your outdoor lifestyle and plan a deck that fits your needs. Whether you’re building a small, platform deck or a multi-level expanse, think about how you use your outdoor living space. Do you host large summer soirees? If so, a durable deck with handrails, built-in seating and lighting can help you define zones for socializing and eating. Is a peaceful, deck getaway more your style? Then consider designing your deck to frame a view, incorporate a hot tub or include a small reading nook. Whatever your preference, make sure you keep transitions in mind. Clear pathways between frequently used openings like the kitchen door, stairs and the backyard will improve your use of the space.

4. Protect your existing landscape The telltale cool air of fall means one thing - improved working conditions. Grass, trees and plants start to go dormant as temperatures drop and the ground freezes, making it easier for you or your contractor to build a deck without harming your landscape. The season’s milder weather also lends itself to a more comfortable working environment.

2. Avoid project delays When deck building is at its peak and contractors are working from dawn to dusk, it can be hard to nail down the right professional and get a start date on the calendar. Far too often, project delays turn dreams of days lounging on a new deck with a lemonade in hand into a source of frustration that mars summer fun. But as fall approaches and construction demands slow, these become issues of the past. Homeowners can often

“By using products like ChoiceDek composite decking that are extremely durable and water resistant, homeowners can broaden the scope of their home,” said Josh Landis, senior marketing manager for ChoiceDek composite decking. “The boards resist rotting and splintering and are easy to clean, a combination that will keep decks looking ready for summer all year long.” (BPT)

5. Extend decking season Decks are no longer reserved for summer. With the right decking material, you can create an indoor-outdoor space that spans multiple seasons and keeps you breathing fresh air all year long. Look for decking products that are as durable as they are beautiful. This will help ensure your outdoor living space remains in top shape throughout Mother Nature’s harsher months.

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November 2018 | 27 FINANCES

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

28 | November 2018 TECHNOLOGY

Study on Blacks and Tech

Reveals Digital Users Becoming Owners By Lauren Victoria Burke NNPA Newswire Contributor

o one doubts that Black Twitter has had an impact on real world and policy change. But now, according to a new study by Nielsen, African American consumers, influencers and digital entrepreneurs are leveraging digital power to not only influence events but to own content.

The new study entitled “From Consumers to The new study entitled “From Consumers Creators: to Creators: The Digital Lives of Black The Consumers” Digital Livesconcluded of Black Consumers” conthe following: cluded the following: • Sixty-one percent of African Americans agree that they enjoy learning about technology or electronics products from others, which is 14% higher than for non-Hispanic whites. • African Americans are one of the most active Twitter segments with 19 million users, 28 percent of the popular platform’s 67 million users. • African Americans 18+ are increasingly tuning in to podcasts, with 70% growth in engagement from 2014 to 2017 (from 2.12 million to 3.6 million). African Americans make up a significant portion of U.S. gamers as seventy-three percent of African Americans 13 and older identify as gamers compared to 66% of the total population.

Because new technology has allowed many people to access digital power and reach thousands in a way that was impossible decades ago, some consumers have quickly flipped the game around into being the operators of content platforms such as blogs, podcasts and even broadcast shows on YouTube.

“African Americans are leveraging innovations in technology and social platforms to level the playing

field and get ahead in a marketplace unencumbered by corporate barriers to entry,” said Cheryl Grace, senior vice president of U.S. Strategic Community Alliances and Consumer Engagement at Nielsen. Barriers to entry such as licensing, start-up costs, regulatory barriers and fees for entry have historically been problematic for entrepreneurs to navigate. Minority entrepreneurs face an even larger set of challenges since their ability to attract angel investors and institutional startup money has always been more of a challenge. Another noteworthy find by the global analytics and data company is that black gamers are the second largest group after Asians. The report also highlights that African Americans are still spending money faster than any other group of people, with a current buying power of $1.3 trillion. This number is expected to increase to $1.54 trillion by 2022 based on gains in population, income, and education. (NNPA)

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November 2018 | 29 TRAVEL

2 Girls Who Travel Take New York: From Niagara to NYC in 48 Hours By Valerie Jones and Kim Floyd 2 Girls Who Travel

ew York is synonymous with Big City lights, skyscrapers and endless things to do. Or maybe you’re just thinking of New York City. Believe it or not, New York State can also be just as fun. Albeit a bit slower, but don’t sleep on Upstate New York! On our most recent 2 Girls Who Travel adventure, we explored the entire state – from top to bottom and even nearby New Jersey, too! Keep reading for the highlights. Beginning in Niagara Falls, we soon noticed the differences between the U.S. side and the Canada side (if you didn’t know, Niagara Falls straddles the Canadian border). as much going on, so we The U.S. didn’t have grabbed our passports and trekked over to Canada. Cool, right? A 15-minute walk at night allowed us some beautiful shots of The Falls illuminated with the colored lights and the ability to enjoy the Canadian side of Niagara Falls – specifically Clifton Hills – which boasts plenty of food and entertainment including a bowling alley, a wax museum, Ripley’s Believe it Or Not Museum, go-kart track, restaurant chains like Applebee’s and Hard Rock Cafe as well as restaurants we weren’t familiar with. Did we mention casinos? (Note: the U.S. side has casinos also and from what we hear, they have higher payouts). Niagara Falls Tour Exploring on our own is always good in our book, but we also love a good tour – because you know we don’t know EVERYTHING! So we booked a Niagara Falls tour. It was the “Over the Falls Tour” and we visited the “Cave of the Winds.” It was awesome! Here’s a couple things you should know about this tour: • You WILL get wet. • You’ll get some of the absolute best up-close shots of The Falls ever. So worth it!

New Jersey After a few days in Corning, NY (located in the Finger Lakes region – think wine, wine and more wine), we rented a car and drove into Elizabeth, New Jersey where our hotel was located, for the weekend. The car ride was a pleasant alternative to flying for a change as it allowed us to really get the scenic views of Upstate New York. While in Jersey, we drove to Liberty State Park in Jersey City to visit the Statue of

Liberty. (Note: you can also take the ferry for a fee and get very close to the statue. In our case, there was a body of water separating us, so we got as good as shots as we could). We found free parking near the Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium and walked just over a mile through the park to see the Statue. New York City Once we figured out the best way to get to the City from Jersey, New York City was our oyster! First, we caught a Lyft to Harlem, the first area we wanted to visit in Manhattan. We stopped by famed soul food restaurant Amy Ruth’s for lunch. Their entrees are named after prominent African Americans and the food was excellent. Portions were a good size for the price. And we were full to the point of catching the ‘itis, so we had to get our walk on to wake up. Harlem is known for its hustle and bustle and being a mecca for African American bu sinesses. We soaked it all up as we walked block after block. We also made a stop in famed Red Rooster Harlem and enjoyed a couple of cocktails. The vibe here is on point – there’s black art, good music, colorful decor and cool people. We highly recommend you make it one of your stops if ever visiting Harlem. We hear the nightlife is good, too! Can’t forget about Levain Bakery where you’ll find some of the biggest cookies you’ve ever had! They have numerous locations – we visited the one in Harlem. We ended up catching another Lyft to get to Times Square where we walked around and did a bit of shopping. As you know, Times Square is ALWAYS busy and there’s just so much to do! After we’d done enough damage, we now had to figure out the best way to get back to New Jersey. For more on that adventure, head to the 2 Girls Who Travel blog – www.2girlswhotravel.com and search “NYC.” All-in-all, our quick trip to New Jersey and NYC was great and the perfect way to end our week in New York. We can’t wait to book our next trip … stay tuned! About 2 Girls Who Travel: Armed with a love for culture, adventure, food, arts and entertainment – and equipped with a laptop, camera and cellular devices – 2 Girls Who Travel has a mission to share their journey with the world. Throughout their travels, they conduct exclusive interviews, write about cool finds, give destination-specific travel tips and provide their takes on the best food and drinks and so much more. Embodying two different kinds of travelers – Val is the adventure-seeking millennial and Kim is the cultured lover of luxury – readers will learn more about them as they share their experiences traversing the globe! Subscribe to the 2 Girls Who Travel blog at 2girlswhotravel.com.

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30â&#x20AC;&#x201A; |â&#x20AC;&#x201A; November 2018

T H E

E X P E R T

N E TW O R K

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November 2018 | 31

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THURSDAY • NOVEMBER 29 • 6-10PM REVENTION MUSIC CENTER

520 Texas Ave • Houston, TX 77002 GUEST SPEAKER DR. GEORGE C. FRASER

PARTICIPATING ORGANIZATIONS American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE) Houston Lawyers Association (HLA) Mary Susan Moore Medical Society (MSMMS) National Association of Black Accountants (NABA) National Association of Health Services Executives (NAHSE)

National Society of Black Engineers Houston Professionals (NSBE) 100 Black Men of Metropolitan Houston, Inc (100 BM) Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP) Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals (HAULYP) Houston Association of Black Journalists (HABJ) Femme Forte Organization | Emerging 10 (E 100) | Texas Black Expo

Houston Area Alliance of Black School Educatores (HAABSE)

National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) Greater Houston Black Chamber (GHBC) National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA) National Association of Black Geoscientists (NABG) University of Houston Black Alumni Association (UHBAA)

Houston Black Real Estate Association (HBREA) National Black Information Technology Leadership Organization (NBITLO) Airport Minority Advisory Council (AMAC) Houston Medical Forum (HMF)