Business Journal 148 by d-mars.com

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BUSINESS JOURNAL

December 2019

Inspire, Inform & Educate

148th Edition

What’s in Store for Third Ward The New 90,000 Sq. Ft. H-E-B MacGregor Market

(L-R) Director of Public Affairs for H-E-B Houston Lisa Helfman, H-E-B MacGregor Market Director Anika Wiley and VP of Public Affairs, Diversity and Environmental Affairs Winell Herron 12

INSIDE

05 TSU, Lamar State College Orange create transfer agreement

10 The Black Professionals Alliance 10th Annual Toy Drive

22 2 Girls Who Travel Take Guatemala

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NOW

One thing I am proud of is, for 20 years, I have kept my core beliefs,” Davis said. “I know that by holding on to those values, we have changed lives and helped people grow in business and in their personal lives. It is all thanks to the people who supported us, people who saw we were good for the community. — Keith “MR. D-MARS” Davis, Sr.

ORDER ONLINE NOW WWW.KEITHJDAVISSR.COM (713) 373.5577 Keith J Davis Sr.

@KeithJDavisSr

December 2019 | 3

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

MR. D-MARS CERTIFIED:

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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. This month’s issue highlights the grand opening of the new H-E-B MacGregor Market in the Third Ward of Houston. For years, the community

Port of Houston

COO & MANAGING EDITOR Kimberly Floyd EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Tiffany Brown

ART DIRECTOR Angel Rosa GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kendra Wiseman PROJECT COORDINATOR Lindsey Ford DISTRIBUTION Rockie Hayden PHOTOGRAPHY L.C. Poullard Grady Carter CONTRIBUTING WRITERS 2 Girls Who Travel Candace J. Semien, Jozef Stacy M. Brown

City of Houston

HISD

CONTENTS 04 Business 04 Maximize Your Employee Benefits In Simple 3 Steps 05 Which apps help employees most? 3 Tips For Growing Businesses 06 Tips For Growing Your Small Business This Holiday Season

VBE

DBE

ADVERTISING | MARKETING MEDIA | COMMUNICATION

10 In The Community 10 Black Professionals Alliance Holiday Social & Toy Drive 26 Yolanda Adams Morning Show

12,21 Cover Story 12,21 What’s In Store for Third Ward 05 Education 05 TSU, Lamar State College Orange Create 12,21 Transfer Agreement 22 Discovery Education and Business Leaders Launch Unique STEM Initiative 18 Food & Recipes 18 Chocolate Bundt Cake With Peppermint Glaze 24 Top Tips to Make Plant Based Diet More Flavorful 23 Finances 23 6 Ways to Save Time and Money This Holiday Shopping Season 14 Health 14 Lead By Example For A Healthier Heart 14 5 Ways To Keep Your Fitness Routine On Track 16 Private, Online Therapy Could Be Best Choice When Help Is Needed 17 Caring For The Family Caregiver 19 The power of positivity: Simple tips to change your life

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OUR SERVICES

08 Community 08 Old Folks Saying 23 Did You Know?

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla STAFF WRITER Carly Hammack

— Maya Angelou

METRO

BEHIND THE JOURNAL PUBLISHER & CEO Keith J. Davis, Sr.

“When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed.”

in Third Ward and other surrounding areas have not had an adequate place to get the groceries they need. Obtaining healthy and fresh foods was a challenge for many and even impossible for some, but now, thanks for the efforts of H-E-B leadership and staff, leaders from the City of Houston and members of the MacGregor community, residents have access to a 90,000 sq. ft. grocery store, stocked with the best H-E-B has to offer. 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.

• 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

26 Real Estate 26 5 Easy Projects to Protect Your Home This Winter 27 8 Simple Ideas to Prevent Home Break Ins 30 Travel 30 2 Girls Who Travel: Take Guatemala

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4 | December 2019 BUSINESS

MAXIMIZE YOUR EMPLOYEE BENEFITS IN

SIMPLE

STEPS

Think about ...

By d-mars.com News Provider

ith the autumn season near, thoughts naturally turn to cooler temperatures, football games and holiday preparations. Another annual ritual synonymous with the season - but not one that many spend enough time on or particularly enjoy - is open enrollment. Open enrollment is the period of time employees throughout the U.S. can enroll in or change coverage for benefits, such as health and disability insurance, or other offerings like employee discounts on auto and home insurance, legal services and financial planning. Since changes to benefits are not available throughout the year outside of special circumstances, such as after you get married or have a baby, it's important to take time going into the fall season to think about how your needs have changed since last year.

Preparing for open enrollment According to a recent open enrollment survey by MetLife, 45 percent of U.S. employees say they dread selecting benefits as much as they do asking for a raise (the data is higher for female employees - 48 percent). It's no wonder then that one in five workers spends only a few minutes reviewing their benefit options. The process doesn't need to be overwhelming, and by taking time now to think about your short- and longterm financial goals, and seek out advice from trusted friends, family or colleagues, you'll be ready to make the most of open enrollment.

1. LOOK AHEAD Every journey begins with an initial step, but first, you need to know which direction you want to go. This means taking time to consider your goals and figuring out what is most important to you. Use this knowledge to evaluate the different benefits your employer offers and determine how they can help you meet your goals. Accident and critical illness coverage, for example, provides lump sum payments that can offset high out-ofpocket medical costs, which are increasingly common with high deductible health plans. Covering expenses with this type of insurance can help you avoid dipping into savings designated for a home purchase, education or other big-ticket items.

• What are your most immediate short-term financial goals? • Which long-term goals should you prioritize? • How would you handle an unexpected expense from an illness or accident?

you may find a host of discounts on products you already purchase, such as cell phone service, auto, home or pet insurance, and legal plans. It isn't only the 56 percent of Americans who, according to a Gallup survey, don't have a will who could benefit from a legal plan; legal plans are a convenient, affordable option that provide access to qualified attorneys who can help address a range of personal issues from filing estate planning documents to purchasing and selling a home or handling speeding tickets and identity theft.

Think about ... • Are you leveraging your company's discounts on things you already pay for? • Would you know the right lawyer to contact in the event you needed help with a landlord dispute? • Do you have estate planning essentials - such as a will or healthcare proxy - in place?

2. REACH OUT Many people shy away from openly talking about their finances, but friends, family and co-workers can be valuable resources. Check to see how their benefits have helped them navigate everyday challenges as well as more difficult situations. For instance, you might think life insurance in your 20s is foolish if you don't have a spouse or children, but it could be important. With student loans burdening the millennial generation, it's crucial to understand that some of these debts don't go away should something happen, and could leave loved ones saddled with the expense. Asking questions is how we learn, and most people love being asked for advice. Don't be afraid. When it comes to your financial future, sometimes an honest conversation with people you trust can make all the difference.

The decisions you make to maximize your benefits during open enrollment have important financial implications, so it's essential to consider the options and make wise choices. The time you invest in preparing today can pay off later - for both you and your finances.

Think about ... • Do you have student loans that would be difficult for loved ones to pay off in your absence? • Have you asked friends if life insurance has made an impact in their lives? • Did you know that you can list a non profit organization as a beneficiary on a life insurance policy?

3. DISCOVER SAVINGS

Look beyond traditional benefits offered by your employer and see if other perks are available. One of the best places to start your search is the company's website. Here,

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Source: BPT

December 2019 | 5 BUSINESS

Today's employees, particularly millennials, highly prioritize trust and transparency in their dealings with companies and organizations. To truly feel aligned and engaged, they must feel empowered to make decisions; however, that's hard to achieve when they don't have the information and resources they need. If you want everyone on your team to be able to find, access and share that crucial information, you need to have the right system in place. Using Google Drive to create a "digital home" for all important documents is an easy and convenient way to ensure that happens.

Which apps help employees most?

3 TIPS FOR GROWING BUSINESSES

* Get organized.

* Improve communication.

By d-mars.com News Provider

or many businesses in our increasingly technical world, future success will depend on how well they can take advantage of digital tools such as apps. These days, it's all about finding and optimizing the right apps, which may explain why app usage has grown so much in recent years. In fact, 81% of workers worldwide are using more apps now than they did five years ago, reports a recent Slack and GlobalWebIndex study. Many of the apps most valuable to businesses are those that can step in to make work processes simpler, more productive and more collaborative. As you shop around for the tools that can help your business grow and function more efficiently, consider looking for the following capabilities.

* Create transparency.

Workers are the heart and soul of your organization, and keeping them clued in to what's going on companywide is key to keeping them engaged, supported and empowered. That's why many organizations are moving beyond email to an efficient workplace collaboration software like Slack. The digital workplace connects you to the people and tools you work with every day, no matter where you are or what you do. In Slack, teamwork and communication happen in channels. This new way of working enables teams to establish a single place for the sharing of messages, tools and files. Channel content can be organized by team, project or whatever else is relevant to the users. Chatbooks, a company that creates photo books, for example, uses Slack channels across remote teams in different time zones to manage marching orders, product quality control, and speedy customer support.

It's hard to focus when computer desktops are packed with multiple notes, files and calendars that get clogged up easily. That's where Trello can step in to help users visualize and organize workloads. The project management tool has been a boon for Seattle-based ice cream company Molly Moon's, which integrates Trello with Slack so shop managers across branches can collaborate on day-to-day issues. "Modern work is more technologically driven than ever before, resulting in a fast-paced workplace and increased pressure with heightened demands," comments Jason Mander, chief research officer at GlobalWebIndex. "While apps and other tech tools help workers become more productive and collaborative, it's about providing better versions of them, not more, and carefully selecting consolidated solutions." Optimizing technology can be a boost to your business, but bombarding workers with too much technology (just for technology's sake) can backfire by making them feel overwhelmed. Tools like Google Drive, Slack and Trello can help by letting employees decide how and when they wish to receive notifications and engage, so they face minimal interruptions and are able to remain productive and efficient.

Source: BPT

EDUCATION

TSU, Lamar State College Orange create transfer agreement By d-mars.com News Provider

he leaders of Texas Southern University and Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) signed a memorandum of understanding on November 12 to create an academic pipeline between the two institutions. The articulation agreement provides a framework to ensure that students transferring from LSCO, a two-year community college based on Orange, TX, to TSU will have dedicated pathway to graduation. “TSU will serve more students via this partnership,” said TSU President Dr. Austin Lane. “Our cooperative effort will increase the pipeline of students earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees and, ultimately, strengthen the Houston and surrounding economy.” Dr. Lane noted that one area of focus with the agreement is a maritime program that both institutions offer – with LSCO providing a certificate program that is a prelude to TSU’s bachelor’s degree in maritime transportation management and security. He added that the

agreement also will benefit students enrolled in West Orange Stark – Early College High School, creating a seamless path from K- 12 to TSU. The agreement recognizes both institutions as active educational partners committed to providing greater educational opportunities and services for students transferring between institutions. President Austin Lane, TSU Provost Kendall T. Harris, and others from TSU traveled to the LSCO’s Shahan Events Center in Orange, TX, for the signing of the agreement. LSCO representatives included President Dr. Thomas Johnson, a TSU alumnus who earned his doctorate in higher education administration, as well as Dr. Al Barringer, executive vice president of academic and student affairs, among others. “We look forward to what this partnership will do for the TSU community and we look forward to working with LSCO to make sure we meet the needs of these students,” said TSU Provost Kendall Harris. “Expanding our efforts to reach more students and bring them into the Tiger family aligns with several of our Top Five Priorities; most significantly Student Success & Completion and Partnerships.”

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Source: Texas Southern University

6â&#x20AC;&#x201A; |â&#x20AC;&#x201A; December 2019 BUSINESS

BUSINESS

Tips for growing your small business this holiday season

By d-mars.com News Provider

mall businesses have a major impact on their communities: 67 cents of every dollar spent on small businesses stays in the local economy. But when it comes to growing their businesses, nearly one in four small business owners say marketing is one of their biggest challenges. As small businesses prepare for the holiday rush and Small Business Saturday on Nov. 30, they are investing in digital marketing to reach new customers and stand out online. Below are a few easy, effective ways to grow your business during this busy time of year from Kim Spalding, global product director for small business ads, Google:

1. Be discovered and build a website People are increasingly searching for small businesses. In 2019, search interest in "mom and pop shops" hit a three-year high. To make sure holiday shoppers are finding your business, Google My Business is a free and easy way to help businesses show up in Search and Maps. Businesses can attract customers by creating a profile where they can update their store information (like their holiday hours), create free posts that promote a special holiday offer or event and reply to reviews. Platforms like Wix and WordPress also offer free accounts that help small business owners build mobile-optimized and budgetfriendly websites. Once you have a website, adding a basic map or store locator can help customers more easily find your store by showing them your store's location on a map and giving directions.

2. Make it easier to sell online Ensuring customers' online holiday shopping experience is easy and seamless is critical. Shopify is a complete commerce platform that lets you start, grow and manage a business. Shopify enables you to sell in multiple places including web, mobile, social media, online, marketplaces, brick-and-mortar locations and pop-up shops.

3. Reach more customers Small business owners have a lot on their plates - especially during the holiday months - and finding the time to create engaging content can feel impossible. Hiring a copywriter from services like Fiverr frees up time for small business owners to focus on running their businesses while expert freelancers draft copy to attract customers. A simple way to reach customers quickly, Smart Campaigns, created specifically for small business owners, takes 15 minutes to set up, and can help small businesses create and optimize ads to attract customers to their website or Maps. Smart Campaigns saves small business owners time by optimizing their budget across Google Ads to deliver the results they crave. Expanded Local Campaigns can help businesses increase foot traffic by surfacing Promoted Pins that appear on the map when users are getting directions and planning their route to a destination.

4. Get a customized online business plan Even though most business owners know their customers are on the web, 80 percent still aren't making the most of digital tools that can help them reach more customers and work more efficiently. Google for Small Business is a free, one-stop shop to help small businesses simplify how they select and use the online tools that can help them reach more holiday customers and work more efficiently. First, business owners input their business name, answer a few questions about their business and select a goal. Then, they receive a step-by-step, personalized plan of recommended products to help them stand out online. Growth for small businesses isn't always about doing more, it's about getting things done in less time, with less complication and less worry. This holiday season, these tools can help businesses thrive by providing the support needed to connect with more customers and meet goals. Source: BPT

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December 2019â&#x20AC;&#x201A; |â&#x20AC;&#x201A; 7

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8 | December 2019 COMMUNITY

“A Stitch in Time Saves Nine” John is the new student body president. He is committed to leading his class and ensuring his peers have an awesome school year. Senior meetings take place every Wednesday at noon and one in particular really swamped John. He was prepared to take on the responsibility of fighting for events, rules, and other need/wants for his classmates. Many of the students expressed their desires of traveling for a senior trip, prom funding, and regular early dismissals on Friday. John was not exactly sure how he would accomplish those tasks but he decided to sit on them until the next meeting. The following Wednesday new issues unfolded and John made note of the new demands of students. His classmates now expressed that they wanted new uniforms, letterman’s for their auxiliary’s, and to be allowed off-campus during lunch periods. The demands started to pile up and soon he became overwhelmed. He quickly looked to the school principal

for direction on how to solve the problems for his class. After all, the principal leads the entire school and listens to what the parents, teachers and students want. The principal advised John that he must act quickly and not wait to solve the issues in his community. He also told John, “A stich in time saves nine.” If John acts quickly it will save him a lot of time later. John decided from that day he would prioritize the wants of his classmates in a timely matter to prevent being overwhelmed in the future. If you have an Old Folks Saying you’d like to submit for consideration in our d-mars.com Business Journal, please email them to editor@d-mars. com. Be sure to include your name, the Old Folks Saying and the meaning.

Practice Fire Safety This Holiday Season Learn more about ﬁre safety at www.redcross.org/TXGC

Cooking Safety ❏ “Keep an eye on what you fry.” Stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or using an open ﬂame.

Fireplaces, Space Heaters, Baseboards, etc. ❏ “3 feet from the heat.” Furniture, curtains, dish towels and anything that could catch ﬁre are at least 3 feet from any type of heat source.

Smoking Safety ❏ Never smoke in bed.

Electrical and Appliance Safety ❏ Large and small appliances are plugged directly into wall outlets.

Children Playing ❏ Matches and lighters are locked away.

Smoke Alarms ❏ Make sure you have working smoke alarms. Different types of smoke alarms, ionization and photoelectric, detect fire in different ways. Experts recommend having both types in your home. ❏ Change smoke alarm batteries every year unless it has a long-life battery. ❏ Replace smoke alarms every ten years. ❏ A combination of working smoke alarms and fire sprinklers decreases the risk of dying in a home fire.

Home Fire Escape Plan At least twice a year, use your home ﬁre escape plan to practice your 2-minute drill with all your family members. Practice makes perfect! After each ﬁre drill, mark down your escape time.

197601-27 11/19

Sources: Vision 20/20, NFPA, USFA

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December 2019â&#x20AC;&#x201A; |â&#x20AC;&#x201A; 9

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10 | December 2019

In the Business Community…

To View More Photos, Visit Our Website www.d-mars.com and Click on ‘Photo Gallery.’

Black Professionals Alliance Holiday Social and Toy Drive The Black Professionals Alliance held its 10th Annual Holiday Social and Toy Drive recently at the Revention Center in Downtown Houston. In partnership with d-mars.com, event leaders Carmen Herrera of National Sales Network and Gene Padgett of National Association of Black

Accountants, celebrated 10 years of coming together, networking and most importantly, giving back to the community by collecting toys for underserved children across the Houston area. This Holiday Social included drinks, music and special remarks from Mayor Sylvester Turner.

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December 2019â&#x20AC;&#x201A; |â&#x20AC;&#x201A; 11

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12 | December 2019

What’s in Store for Third Ward By d-mars.com News Provider

or some it may seem like just a new grocery store, but to many others the new H-E-B MacGregor Market means much more. For years, the community in the Third Ward of Houston and other surrounding areas have not had an adequate place to get the groceries they need. Obtaining healthy and fresh foods was a challenge for many and even impossible for some, but now, thanks to the efforts of H-E-B leadership and staff, leaders from the City of Houston and members of the MacGregor community, residents have access to a 90,000 sq. ft. grocery store, stocked with the best H-E-B has to offer. An exclusive preview and ribbon cutting for the store was held recently, and in attendance were some of the key people responsible for this new facility, including Mayor Sylvester Turner, H-E-B President Scott McClelland, H-E-B MacGregor Market Director Anika Wiley, H-E-B Group VP of Public Affairs, Diversity and Environmental Affairs Winell Herron and Director of Public Affairs for H-E-B Houston Lisa Helfman. Also present were several Houston city leaders, community leaders and MacGregor area residents who have long awaited the completion of their new neighborhood store. “At the ground breaking for this store, a local resident told me something I won’t forget,” Mayor Sylvester Turner said. “She had to travel to Bellaire or Pearland just to get fresh groceries. Now we have a store with live cooking demonstrations, heat and eat meals, emphasis on Texas products, a health food section and a way to order products online and pick them up on the curb right here in Third Ward.” Throughout the event, two things were evident: This store was created with the community being the main focus, and this store was created with Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

December 2019 | 13

every member of the community in mind. “This is a store for everyone,” Winell Herron said. “For example, METRO created a new 312 Grocery Shuttle that will provide nonstop services every 30 minutes between the southeast transit center to our new store. It will run from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. to ensure that every person in this community is able to get to the things they need.” In addition to bringing in the resources the community needed, H-E-B also made it a priority to stock the shelves of this store with products created by those in the community as well. They were able to support several local small, minority and women-owned businesses by bringing in their products. “We have many local products represented on our shelves here at the MacGregor Market,” Herron said. “Some of those include Frenchy’s products, Savannah Rose Iced Tea, Me & the Bees Lemonade and so many more.” In the MacGregor Market store alone, H-E-B was able to employ over 400 partners from the community. It is clear that it was a top priority for the H-E-B company to keep as much of this business and support in the community as possible. “We have been in this community a long time,” Lisa Helfman said. “But I think we are just getting started. This store is just another big opportunity for us to help the community and get into the community. We are not just looking for the shining moment. We are looking to go in and help people where they really need help.” As strong as H-E-B’s commitment is to the community, their commitment to their employees is just as solid. Anika Wiley’s story displays that perfectly. Wiley has been with H-E-B for over

22 years. She started as a deli clerk in Austin and has worked her way through the ranks and across several cities to become the director for the H-E-B MacGregor Market, which she described as “a dream come true.” “What H-E-B has done and has done well is that it is not just about the store,” Mayor Turner said. “It is about having people working for the corporation that care and represent the heart and soul of the people, and Anika Wiley is a walking example of that.” The impact this store has had and will continue to have on this community is evident in many ways, from the outstanding attendance at the ground breaking to the number of people that will now have access to fresh and convenient groceries. The journey of this new store has been a community collective effort, involving so many people who have made it their mission to make every part of Houston the best it can be. It sets an example of what can be done for other communities that may be experiencing the same lack of fresh, healthy and convenient groceries. Mayor Turner said it was his hope that in the next four years, the success of this store will be replicated in the other neighborhoods where there are food deserts and people in need of more options. “I don’t think I have ever been colder than on the day we broke ground for this store,” Scott McClelland said. “But I also don’t think my heart has ever been warmer than seeing the number of people show up here to support this store.”

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14 | December 2019 EDUCATION

Discovery Education and h c n u la s r e d a e L s s e Busin

Unique STEM Initiative

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Contributor

iscovery Education, the leading provider of digital curriculum resources, content, and professional development for K-12 classrooms nationwide, has announced the creation of a STEM Careers Coalition. Officials said the initiative will help educators develop a pipeline of students who are interested in pursuing careers in STEM fields. It will also provide nocost resources to students and educators, including virtual field trips, digital instructional assets, and career exploration videos. Discovery Education officials said these resources would help students build foundational STEM knowledge and develop critical thinking 21st-century skills for college and career success. “Last week we launched a critical initiative about future careers, a conduit through which students can see the work of the future, and a set of resources that bring relevancy to learning and broaden our understanding of and engagement with STEM,” stated Marla Wilson, the Senior Director of the Coalition. “Solutions to local, national, or global challenges are best addressed with a collaborative community of companies, industries, and non-profits,” Wilson added. “This world of work is most effective when the individuals contributing to and leading this evolution represent the diversity of our communities and the richness of multiple perspectives. We are excited to work with our anchor partners to intentionally focus on girls and students of color, as we move to provide equity and access and de-mystify STEM,” she stated. The initiative launched at the Carnegie Institution for Science, where former astronaut Leland Melvin joined a panel discussion that included leaders in education, industry, and government. Members of the newly formed Coalition includes key anchor partners like the American Petroleum Institute (API), Chevron, The Manufacturing Institute, Boeing, Microsoft, and Best Buy.

The initiative would take place in a phased approach that includes a pilot year. The approach should help measure the program's effectiveness and strategically developed ways to scale, Discovery officials stated. The initiative will scale up over five years, and it's expected to reach

inspire and connect with future employees through engaging classroom experiences. Coalition members will also underwrite Discovery Education STEM Connect in local communities identified by the partners. Inspired by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the National Academy of Engineering Grand Challenges for Engineering, STEM Connect is an interdisciplinary resource that enhances the core curriculum. It helps students build valuable problemsolving skills as they develop and apply solutions to critical real-world challenges. Rooted in authoritative research, users become part of a global student laboratory to share data and collaborate with others around the world, officials stated. "We really see ourselves as problem solvers, and we're trying to tackle the world's greatest energy challenges. Meeting the growing demand for energy around the world and producing building blocks that we need to manufacture everyday

10 million students by 2025 with support from various corporate partners. Among the components of the STEM Coalition's work is a direct investment in schools by providing K-12 STEM career resources, STEM Connect access, and professional development for under-resourced schools. The Coalition will implement employee engagement through mobilizing the current STEM workforce at scale to

products and to fuel the economy," stated Rebecca Winkel, an Economic Advisor of Regulatory and Economic Policy at API. "It's a big job, and we're trying to do that smarter, safer, better, and more effectively every day. We know that to continue this work, we need a talented workforce. And we have quite a large workforce gap that we see coming," Winkel stated. She continued: "There will be millions

Each of those companies has provided initial seed funding and support to power the initiative's launch.

Diversity, equity and access are key. We want to make sure that we are providing resources to schools that are traditionally under-resourced and making sure that girls and students of color, in particular, can have access to it.”

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of job opportunities that we will need to fill in this industry over the next two decades. And so, to be able to continue solving the problems and facing the challenges that we face, we need to make sure that the next generation is as prepared as possible. Investing in education at the earliest stages is necessary to make this happen. "Diversity, equity and access are key. We want to make sure that we are providing resources to schools that are traditionally under-resourced and making sure that girls and students of color, in particular, can have access to it." In addition to Melvin, guests at the launch included those identified as individuals invested in preparing the next generation of solution seekers and leveraging the power of technology to close the awareness gap. "The STEM Careers Coalition will connect classrooms to careers at an unprecedented scale, said Lori McFarling, President of Corporate Partnerships, Discovery Education. "We believe that through direct investment in schools with a focus on equity of access, engagement of Coalition member employees, and exposure to digitally immersive STEM career experiences, more students will have the opportunity to envision their future in STEM and emerge as the STEM leaders of the future to fill the evergrowing careers pipeline," McFarling stated. Over time, the efforts of the Coalition are expected to result in increased awareness as it relates to STEM and STEM careers, stated Wilson, the Senior Director of the Coalition. "Through the generosity of the Coalition partners, students will have access to an array of STEM-focused resources, such as virtual field trips, digital instructional assets, career exploration videos, and more," Wilson stated. For businesses and organizations interested in learning more about joining the STEM Careers Coalition and school districts interested in learning more about the scholarship process, please visit https:// stemcareerscoalition.org/. Source: NNPA

December 2019 | 15 FINANCES

6 Ways to Save Time and Money This Holiday Shopping Season By d-mars.com News Provider

o matter what holiday shoppers are looking for this season, there are two things on everyone's list: saving time and saving money. Whether you're making memories with friends and family, or enjoying some JOMO (joy of missing out) cozied up with a holiday flick and treat, we all wish we had more time over the holidays. Picking out the perfect gift for everyone on your list can also be a drain on your free time - and your wallet - with The National Retail Federation predicting that holiday spending will increase approximately 4% this year. This holiday season, simplify your shopping with these six easy tips so you can save both time and money and get back to enjoying "the most wonderful time of the year" with family and friends.

* Set a budget - and stick to it. With shoppers expected to spend more this year, setting a budget will be as important as ever, and a great first step in managing holiday spending. Sticking to your budget can be difficult, but there are plenty of ways to save. For many, purchasing in cash adds a level of accountability and is a key way to keep holiday spending on track. Try paying with cash even when shopping online, with helpful resources like Amazon Cash and Amazon PayCode. * Shop online - but know where to shop to get the best prices. This year, according to PwC's 2019 Holiday Outlook, more than half of customers (54%) will shop online. Save time and money by shopping with a one-stop location. A recent report by Profitero stated that Amazon is set to beat U.S. online retailers on pricing throughout

the holiday season by 20% on average across key consumer shopping categories. * Shop with Prime. 'Tis the season of busy schedules and eleventh-hour needs. Whether you're looking for last-minute ingredients or the best playlist for a holiday gathering, Prime can help you save time and get everything you need this holiday season. In addition to getting the best of shopping and entertainment, Prime members have access to exclusive perks to help navigate the holiday season - from free ultrafast grocery delivery when you need something in a pinch, to early access on the hottest holiday deals. * Look out for deals. Everyone wants to score deals on products they love - but comparing prices during the holidays can feel like an extra job. Luckily, you can track the best deals without spending much time or energy this season. Customize your gift search, or, simply sign up for "Watch a Deal" alerts and receive alerts when items you've had an eye on drop in price. Also, thrifty shoppers can check out Bargains to find savings on a vast selection all in one place. * Don't stress over gifting. Finding the perfect gift can be overwhelming! Eliminate the stress by starting with curated gift guides on top categories like Toys, Electronics, Books and Luxury Beauty. They're a great way to see what's popular this season and get gift ideas for anyone on your list. Plus, you can even sort by price, making it easy to stay on budget by finding gifts at the right price point.

Still can't find the perfect gift? A gift card will allow you to set the budget you want, and everyone can find something they love from a wide selection of products. * Delivery your way. Once lists are checked twice and shopping is complete, select convenient shipping and delivery options that work best for your holiday schedule. Amazon Day gives Prime members peace of mind knowing that their purchases will conveniently arrive on the day of their choice, and are consolidated into fewer boxes whenever possible. In addition to other flexible delivery options like Amazon Key, shoppers can make use of secure pickup options as well. Eliminate the worry of ruining a surprise or transporting packages by using selfservice Amazon Lockers, staffed Amazon Locker+ pickup and return locations or visiting a staffed Counter location. This holiday season, give yourself the gift of saving time and money so you can spend the holidays doing more of what you love with the people you love most. Source: BPT

COMMUNITY

SOUTH AFRICAN

DID YOU KNOW By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Contributor

Zozibini Tunzi said she grew up in a world where a woman who looks like her, was never considered beautiful. On Sunday, December 8, the South Africa beauty queen was crowned Miss Universe.“I grew up in a world where a woman who looks like me, with my kind of skin and my kind of hair, was never considered beautiful,” Tunzi stated. “I think it is time that that stops today. I want children to look at me and see my face, and I want them to see their faces reflected in mine,” she added. The 26-year-old from Tsolo, South Africa, speaks English and Isixhosa. Tunzi’s official biography notes that she’s a passionate activist and engaged in the fight against genderbased violence. Tunzi has devoted her

BEAUTY QUEEN CROWNED

social media campaign to changing the narrative around gender stereotypes, and she said she’s a proud advocate for natural beauty. Tunzi also works to encourage women to “love themselves the way they are,” she stated. “Tonight, a door was opened, and I could not be more grateful to have been the one to have walked through it,” Tunzi wrote on Twitter after being crowned Miss Universe 2019. “May every little girl who witnessed this moment forever believe in the power of her dreams, and may they see their faces reflected in mine. I am Miss Universe 2019,” she stated. Sofia Aragón of Mexico and Madison Anderson of Puerto Rico were the two runners-up in the pageant. Source: NNPA

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16 | December 2019

top tips to make FOOD & RECIPES

plant -based diet

flavorful By d-mars.com News Provider

f you're trying to eat more veggies and you're encouraging your kids to do the same, you may struggle with making meals tasty enough to tempt even the pickiest eaters in your family. The struggle is real! But don't worry, there are plenty of options that are plant-based, healthy and delicious. Start exploring a few new meal options, and you'll be surprised how great eating a plant-based diet can taste and make you feel.

Start with veggies Instead of planning the meal around the protein, add the protein as an accompaniment to the vegetables. Most of us were brought up to think of a meal as an entree of meat surrounded by a few vegetables or starches as side dishes. Instead, start with a veggie or two, then pick a protein that goes well with those veggies to add to the mix. Try a pan of roasted mixed veggies combined with plant-based proteins. If you use veggies that have substantial protein content, you're off to a great start. For example, green peas, broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, and even corn and potatoes offer plenty of protein. Either use recipes that already include a plant-based

protein like tofu, lentils, quinoa, nuts or any kind of bean, or consider swapping the chicken or ground meat in a recipe for those options. Casseroles, soups, stews and salads are a great place to start.

Dining in and taking out healthfully Look for restaurants offering a wide variety of veggiebased meal options instead of just one or two veggie sides or salads. If your children are selective about their menu choices, a restaurant willing to substitute items can be your best ally. For example, Noodles & Company offers plant-based options and will customize meals to suit your - and your child's - tastes, preferences and dietary restrictions. You can order dishes with Zoodles, which are noodles made from fresh zucchini hand-spiralized in-restaurant daily, or choose the new Caulifloodles - cauliflower-infused pasta - to increase the veggie content of any meal. A regular-sized bowl of Caulifloodles boasts one full serving of vegetables, and are a great way to sneak extra veggies into your kids' meals. Great new choices on the Noodles menu include Cauliflower Rigatoni in Light Onion Cream Sauce, served with roasted zucchini, mushrooms and spinach, and finished with MontAmore cheese and parsley. Or, try the Cauliflower

Rigatoni Fresca with Shrimp, which adds shrimp sauteed with balsamic vinaigrette, olive oil, roasted garlic, red onion, tomato and spinach, topped with Parmesan. Check out the restaurant's online nutrition calculator so you can find something healthy and tasty for everyone in the family, even those with various dietary needs. For the busy school days that turn into even busier nights, you can order online using the Noodles Rewards app for easy pickup at the Quick Pickup counter and skip the in-restaurant line altogether. Cooking plant-based meals doesn't have to mean sacrificing flavor or convenience. A little creativity can go a long way toward boosting the taste and nutritional content of your family's meals. Check out noodles.com for a look at options for both dining in and ta k ing out more delicious plant-based meals.

Chinese Spring Rolls

PICK A FLAVOR PROFILE No matter what veggies and protein you use, with a clear flavor profile in mind, you can add fresh herbs and spices that go well together. If you use tofu, keep in mind that it adopts any flavor you add to the dish. • Go Asian with flavors like soy sauce, ginger, garlic, sesame oil and scallions. • Make it Italian with garlic, oregano, basil, balsamic vinegar, tomatoes and Parmesan cheese. • Enjoy Mexican? Add cayenne or jalapenos, chili powder and onion, plus cilantro and lime juice. • For a Middle Eastern touch, use black pepper, cumin, cardamom, nutmeg and paprika. • Add a taste of India with cumin, curry, turmeric, coriander or garam masala. • Reference classic French flavors using basil, bay leaves, marjoram, thyme, tarragon and sage. Taste your dishes as you cook, and don't be afraid to add more kosher or sea salt, plus black pepper, to boost any dish with some added flavor.

Veget arian Noodles

Pumpkin Soup

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Source: BPT

December 2019â&#x20AC;&#x201A; |â&#x20AC;&#x201A; 17

The Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Program at the University of Houston was established to identify and encourage HUBs to participate in the competitive bid process with the objective of increasing the number of contracts and subcontracts awarded to Texas HUB Vendors.

The University of Houston HUB Program is committed to expanding business opportunities available in order to promote the successful development of growing businesses, to have a positive impact on improving our local economy and to give back to our community.

For more information about how to do business with the University of Houston, bid opportunities, or to learn about events, workshops and seminars, visit: www.uh.edu/hub

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18 | December 2019

In the Business Community…

To View More Photos, Visit Our Website www.d-mars.com and Click on ‘Photo Gallery.’

Yolanda Adams Morning Show Keith “MR. D-MARS” Davis, Sr. was honored to be invited on the Yolanda Adams Morning Show with Marcus D. Wiley to discuss his recently released book, “Maximizing Your Own Treasure Chest” and the importance of “capitalizing on the riches in your own backyard.”

REAL ESTATE

5 Easy Projects to Protect Your Home This Winter

By d-mars.com News Provider

he winter months are here! While you may be preparing to celebrate the holidays and spend time with loved ones, it's also important to ensure your home is protected from the cold weather. There are several ways to lower your heating bill and protect your home this winter. Below are five easy projects for first-time home buyers that make a big impact.

1. Change air filters Easiest to do, easiest to forget. A clean air filter provides healthy air quality and savings on your energy bill. Regularly changing an old air filter can reduce energy costs by permitting air to flow more easily through the HVAC system, according to the Department of Energy. Fresh air filters are also important for the long-term health

of your HVAC system. Keeping this system clean can prevent costly repairs and it creates healthier air quality for your family. This project benefits your wallet both now and later down the road.

for gaps. Fill any gaps you find with simple caulk work and replace any worn doorstops to help prevent unwanted air from flowing in or out of your home. This step helps insulate your home and generate energy savings.

2. Upgrade your thermostat

4. Clean your gutters

A smart programmable thermostat can save you up to $180 a year on utility costs, according to EnergyStar. This thermostat works by automatically raising or lowering the temperature in your home to keep it consistent, which saves fuel. For example, you can program most thermostats on a mobile app to keep your home at a lower temperature while you're away during the day, and warm back up again at night.

Cleaning your gutters before the snow flies can help you avoid major issues later on. This prevents ice dams, which can turn into a leaky roof. And even if you live in a warmer climate, full gutters are heavy and can cause damage - like mold growth and leaks - by pulling away from your house.

3. Inspect doors and windows Keep pesky drafts at a minimum this season. Set aside time to look at all the windows and doors in your home and check

5. Seal and protect your water sources

It is important to protect the water sources inside and outside of your home. If you have an outdoor water spigot, be sure to cover the faucet. You can find simple-to-install covers at most local hardware retailers. Empty out your water hoses and bring them inside so

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they don't freeze and become damaged. On those below-freezing nights, let your indoor faucets drip to maintain a flow of water and prevent your pipes from bursting. Taking small steps to protect your home now can save money and prevent you from dipping into your emergency fund. "We believe homeownership makes lives better." Said Jason Langston, Director of Customer Experience and Marketing for Vanderbilt Mortgage. "Vanderbilt is committed to educating all customers, both who are buying a home or living in their own home, so they thrive in homeownership." Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance has even more financial and homeownership tips on its website to make sure every home owner is able to enjoy freedom in their home.

Source: BPT

December 2019 | 19 REAL ESTATE

8 Simple ideas to prevent home break-ins

id you know most burglaries are home break-ins? Keeping your home secure is vital to the safety of yourself, your family and your belongings. Here are several simple ideas to increase your personal safety.

evening. You might also consider a timer for your front porch light. If it's lit during the day, it could be a telltale sign that you're away for an extended period. Along that line, don't let the mail or newspapers pile up when you're on vacation. Either suspend service or ask a neighbor to pick them up for you. Check into newer technology lighting that allows you to control lights remotely using your smart device.

1. Install a home security system.

6. Install outdoor lighting.

Security systems offer perhaps the most powerful protection for your home. Even a simple alarm system and a few well-placed signs in your yard and on your windows can greatly diminish the likelihood of home break-ins. If you can afford it, motion sensors on doors and windows, along with 24-hour monitoring, delivers even greater protection. Check for discounts on your home insurance for a monitored security system.

Darkness is a burglar's best friend. When thieves approach your home and bright lights in their faces suddenly confront them, it can be a strong motivation to move on. Motion-activated lighting systems are inexpensive, easy to install and a great way to put thieves in the spotlight. Plus, when you come home at night, these lights will switch on and illuminate the path to your door.

By d-mars.com News Provider

2. Check out smart home technology. Consider investing in security cameras and other smart home technology, such as video doorbells and keylocks. These systems are much easier to install now using wireless devices and can help you monitor your home and alert you to potential activity. They also provide a great way to check in on pets when you're away from home.

3. Don't hide keys outside the house. For convenience, many people hide a spare key outside near the front door. It might be under the welcome mat, in a planter or on a ledge. If a key is easy for your family or friends to find, it's also easy for thieves to find. Instead, consider leaving a key with a neighbor you trust.

4. Keep those bushes trimmed. High, full bushes and shrubs around your home are ideal places for thieves to hide while they work on opening your window. By keeping bushes trimmed and lower to the ground, you're making it harder for wouldbe burglars to gain access to your house.

5. Make it look like you're home. Most thieves want to strike while you're away. With some good sense and creativity, you can fool them into thinking you're home even when you're not. Consider purchasing timers that turn your lamps and TV on and off at different hours of the

7. Make friends with your neighbors. Chances are, the neighbors surrounding your home are just as interested in home security as you are. Together, you can create a network of eyes that's always on the lookout for suspicious behavior. If you're going out of town, let your neighbors know in advance so they can be extra vigilant. When they go on vacation, you can do the same for them. Exchange phone numbers and emails with your neighbors, so you can contact them when an emergency arises. Consider joining neighborhood watch groups or online forums to keep informed about things going on in your neighborhood and local area.

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8. Keep windows and doors locked. This tip may seem obvious, but unlocked doors and windows are the cause of many successful burglaries. When the weather's nice, you may open a window and then forget to close it at night or when you run an errand, offering a tempting target for burglars. In addition, don't leave valuable items, such as purses, laptops or credit cards, in plain view through your windows. Thieves may take this opportunity to quickly break the glass and grab your valuables. For additional information on protecting your home visit USAA.com/homeowners.

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Source: BPT

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20 | December 2019

TH E

E X P E R T

N E TW O R K

BORRIS L. MILES INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENCY

Auto • Home • Life • Health • Disability • Annuity • Commercial

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22 | December 2019 TRAVEL TRAVEL

By Valerie Jones and Kim Floyd 2 Girls Who Travel

ver since we returned from our trip to Guatemala, we’ve been singing the country’s praises. We flew into Guatemala City, stayed the night there and spent our remaining three days in the beautiful city of Antigua. We didn’t know much beforehand about Guatemala, other than it’s in Central America and bordered on the north and west by Mexico – a country we frequent quite regularly. But we found a cheap flight and decided to give it a go. After a little bit of research, we saw that Guatemala is home to many volcanoes and knew if nothing else, we definitely wanted to visit a volcano! Keep reading for a recap of our whirlwind trip to Guatemala!

Antigua We booked a transfer from our Guatemala City hotel to our Airbnb in Antigua. This is truly a beautiful city – one we did NOT want to leave! Part of the appeal was the lovely Airbnb we stayed at … it’s called The House of Pots. Our Airbnb hosts, Tom and Paul, owned and operated an art gallery in Honolulu, Hawaii for 10 years before moving to Guatemala where they purchased a home and quickly started adding their artistic flair to it. From there La Casa de las Ollas (House of the Cooking Pots) was born! The house was absolutely

Guatemala City

We didn’t spend long here, but if you’re like us and have a late flight in, it’s definitely better to stay the night in Guatemala City and explore more of Guatemala the following day. Our hotel was The Hilton Garden Inn in Guatemala City and here’s why we recommend it: • it’s located just a few miles from La Aurora International Airport • the hotel is clean with modern décor • it offers free airport shuttle transfers • it offers free Wi-Fi While some advise not to wander around Guatemala City late at night or by yourself, we found no problems walking around the next morning to grab some coffee.

beautiful, charming and cozy. The wood utilized for the ceiling is a local wood called conacaste, known for its beautiful grain and natural repellent against insects. The furniture and artwork are all from Tom and Paul’s own personal collection. The furnishings are mostly vintage Guatemalan and exhibit the unique character of the country. There are paintings of Antigua by local artist Alfredo Garcia Gil and textiles that are Tzutes or ceremonial textiles from Chichicastenango; and are about 50-60 years old.

Now as for what we did in Antigua…a lot! Just a few steps away from our Airbnb was a new artsy restaurant called L’Osteria Antigua, located inside The Good Hotel. We ate here twice – for lunch and breakfast – and were pleased with their alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks as well as their cuisine. Another restaurant we visited more than once was the hip, late-night taco spot called Ta’Cool. This is where you should go for your street tacos and margaritas. Our Airbnb was in the perfect location in Antigua – walking distance to central park where you have your choice of restaurants and shopping. We haggled prices in a local market, visited a museum and ate a full lunch with drinks for just over $5 USD!

But probably the most exciting part of our trip was our ATTEMPT to hike a volcano. We say attempt because just five minutes in, we realized it was more strenuous than we anticipated! Luckily, on the tour we booked, travelers can pay for a horse to ride up the volcano – definitely worth the money! And this tour was amazing – if just for the view of the volcano alone! And it didn’t hurt that as part of the full-day tour, we got to eat lunch at a swanky resort nearby and relax in the hot springs! For more pictures, details and tips about traveling to Guatemala, be sure to visit www.2girlswhotravel.com and subscribe to our blog so you can keep up with all of our adventures!

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2020

NOMINATIONS Experience Our World

TOP 50 BLACK PROFESSIONALS & ENTREPRENEURS

OF TEXAS

DIRECTORY & AWARDS CEREMONY February 27, 2020

IN THE FOLLOWING CATEGORIES: All nominations should include name, emails and/or phone number and the reason for the nomination. Submit to contact@d-mars.com UP & COMING: Under 5 years experience TOP P&E: 5 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 20 years experience SUPER P&E: 20+ years experience TRAILBLAZER: P&E who is a pioneer/first in their field/industry COMMUNITY HERO: P&E who makes extraordinary contributions to the community LIVING LEGEND: P&E selected by their peers for showing significant achievement in their field If you are a business or a corporation and would like to advertise in our directory or become a sponsor of the event, please contact us by phone at 281.748.8111 or email contact@d-mars.com. Serious inquiries only please. For general questions about the directory of the event, please call 713.373.5577.