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February 2020
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Inspire, Inform & Educate
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151st Edition
ROBERTS MARKLAND, LLP
PRACTICING LAW WITH A PURPOSE (L-R) CLIVE MARKLAND AND SEAN ROBERTS
14
INSIDE
04 The Greater Houston Black Chamber Board Installation
08
Imani School Dad’s Superhero Day
24
2 Girls Who Travel Take Tulum
February 2020 | 3
PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE
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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 Roberts Markland, LLP, a Houston based personal injury law firm that specializes in helping those who have been hurt or suffered a catastrophic injury. Located
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
“It is in your hands to create a better world for all who live in it.”
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— Nelson Mandela
City of Houston
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kendra Wiseman PROJECT COORDINATOR Lindsey Ford
06 Community 06 Q & A With The Crown Prince Of Soul Music Calvin Richardson 08 Imani School Dad’s Superhero Day 10 5th Annual Hire Houston Youth 10 Buffalo Soldiers National Museum “Heal the Armory” 5 in 5 Campaign 12 Did You Know? 13 Black History Month: Spotlighting A Decade of Struggle
24 Finances 24 How To Build An Emergency Fund 26 No Credit History? Here’s How To Build One 28 6 Simple Steps To Take Control Of Your Finances
PHOTOGRAPHY L.C. Poullard Grady Carter 17
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14 Cover Story 14 Roberts Markland, LLP is Practicing Law With A Purpose
DISTRIBUTION Rockie Hayden
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Mayor Sylvester Turner Stacy M. Brown J Thomas Smith LJ Garfield Dr. Carlie Bell-Biggins Dr. Ben Chavis 2 Girls Who Travel
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CONTENTS
STAFF WRITER Carly Hammack ART DIRECTOR Angel Rosa
in Third Ward, Roberts Markland, LLP have made it a priority to give back to their community by uplifting and empowering residents and business owners to stay in the community and assist in bringing it to its highest potential. They have taken on the perspective that change is inevitable, but instead of fighting it, they took matters into their own hands to make the Third Ward community a thriving and successful neighborhood for its residents. 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.
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16 Health 16 Be Aware & Get Care 10 Waysto Reduce Prenatal Infections 17 4 Common Fitness Myths Debunked 18 15 Top 2020 Food Trends 20 Natural Health for African Americans
• 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
04 In The Community 04 The Greater Houston Black Chamber Board Installation 24 Travel 24 2 Girls Who Travel: Take Tulum
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4 | February 2020
In the Business Community…
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The Greater Houston Black Chamber Board Installation The Greater Houston Black Chamber held its annual meeting and Board of Directors installation recently at Houston Community College West Loop Campus. Hundreds of business executives, dignitaries, community leaders and other professionals gathered to witness the installation of the board of directors. Guests heard from various speakers including Carol Guess, chairwoman, GHBC; Charlotte Stallings, Financial Expert
and Keynote Speaker; Theldon R. Branch, III, Port Houston; Jeanette Hammond, CenterPoint Energy; Tiffany Thomas, councilwoman, District F; and Judge Clarese Rankin Yates. The latest edition of the Buy Black Guide, a directory of businesses owned by African Americans, was released and several new GHBC programs were announced.
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February 2020 | 5
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Fire Chief Eugene Campbell, Jr. City of Missouri City Cynthia Ginyard Fort Bend County Democratic Party
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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.
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6 | February 2020 COMMUNITY
Q & A WITH THE
Crown Prince of Soul Music, Calvin Richardson By d-mars.com News Provider
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alvin Richardson, deemed the “Prince of Soul Music”, is a gospel minded urban contemporary and neo-soul singer and songwriter. Richardson’s work has been influenced by a vast array of artists such as Sam Cooke, Marvin Gaye and K-Ci & Jojo, giving his work the ability to blend in with sounds from the 60s and 70s as well as later times like the 80s, 90s and 2000s. He has had great success throughout his career, and d-mars.com got the chance to hear from him about his accomplishments as well as what he has planned next.
What prompted you to pursue a career in music? K-Ci & JoJo were my biggest inspirations that led me to pursue a career in the music business. I had my first taste of the real platform to stardom singing in a gospel group alongside them long before the monumental success of Jodeci. Seeing their success was the number one driving force behind my pursuit of music as a career.
What do you consider your greatest musical accomplishment? My greatest musical accomplishment was realizing and surviving 20 years in the music business and getting stronger with every year that goes by.
Are you planning on releasing new music soon? I have a newly released album that came on the market on October 25, 2019, so that music will hold me over and keep my fans happy until it is time for the next body of work.
What artists have had the biggest influence on your musical career? I spoke about K-Ci & Jojo earlier and their profound impact on my career; however, Frankie Beverly and I were talking about 10 years
ago, and he told me that I reminded him of himself when he was younger because his focus wasn’t on the vanity or accolades that so many seek from being a recording artist. Rather his focus was on just making good music. That’s what I always strived to do even before that conversation with Frankie but even more so after it.
What’s the most important thing you want people to know about you as an artist? I want them to know that I’m just like most people. I’ve lived, loved and lost, but where I differ from most is that in every one of my losses, I was able to find a win which helped me hit restart. I believe in love for real!
What’s next for your career? Any upcoming project, tours, music, etc.? My work load is steady and consistent in enjoying my relationship with my fans, sharing my life with them on and off stage; The Calvin Richardson Experience. I’m into so many things and have a lot going on, but I stay ready and open-minded to whatever I’m blessed to have come my way. There is a tour in the works of my very own. Details coming soon in 2020.
Is there anything you would like to share with our readers? I’d like to thank the readers who’ve known of me and have taken this journey along with me as I’ve found my way and have taken my place as the true crown prince of soul music. It’s because of each one of you that I’m now able to do me! Check out my new autobiography book titled “Do You Without Them.”
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February 2020  |  7
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8 | February 2020 COMMUNITY
Imani School Dad’s Superhero Day By d-mars.com News Provider
or the third consecutive year, The Imani School held its Dad’s Superhero Day. This was their biggest year yet, with over 30 dads participating. Fathers of students at The Imani School dressed up as various superheroes and spent the day spreading positivity and excitement throughout each class at the school. Pre-K through first grade students were visited by the superheroes and read stories while third through eighth graders had open discussions with the superheroes about mantras. These mantras are comprised of encouraging messages based on lessons the teachers wanted their students to hear. “With the older students,” Teeba Rose, president of The Imani School’s Dads Club, said. “The superheroes get the chance to tell students how they accomplished their goals and encourage them in how they can accomplish theirs too.” Following the classroom visits, the students lined the hallways for a parade led by the Marshall High School band. They brought in a 31-piece band along with the drum majors to march through the hallways with the superhero dads following behind, handing out smiles and high fives. The parade ended with the entire school gathering in the ballroom to watch the band perform.
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“We were very fortunate to have the Marshall High School band join us this year,” Rose said. “It was incredible. Most of these students have only witnessed performances like this on television or at parades downtown but never up close in their own environment like this.” While this event has doubled in the number of participating dads since its first year, it has also exponentially influenced participation in other events at the school. More dads than ever are signing up to participate in not only the Superhero Day, but also other events put on by The Imani School Dad’s Club such as their annual camping trip and daddy-daughter dance. “Too see all of these African American fathers taking off time from work to join in on experiences with their children is a great implication of showing our kids versus telling them,” Rose said. “The kids were able to see what is possible, that family members can show up and be a part of things, that fathers can be strong participants and support systems.” The Imani School has made it a point for the school to be a place of cultural and emotional enrichment, in addition to educational enrichment. The Dad’s Club is a way to help the students learn beyond what is taught in the classroom by giving them experiences and interactions to gain knowledge from such as Dad’s Superhero Day.
“We believe that our school is Wakanda and our students are the Vibranium,” — Rose said
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February 2020  |  9
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10 | February 2020 COMMUNITY
5
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By Sylvester Turner Houston Mayor
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his month, I am launching the 5th year of one of my signature programs, Hire Houston Youth (HHY). By working with the private sector and nonprofit community, HHY provides more access to employment opportunities for young people ages 16-24. Houston is a city of opportunity. If we are going to build a strong, vibrant workforce, we must invest in our youth, and we must do it now. Since becoming mayor, I have steadily grown the Hire Houston Youth program. Before I came into office, the City of Houston offered 450 summer jobs, but I knew that we could do better. In 2016, we increased the number of jobs to over 1,100. Each year, there has been a steady increase from 1,100 to 5,000 to 7,500. In 2019, I set an ambitious goal of 10,000 job opportunities. We exceeded this goal and provided access to over 11,400 jobs. Our success comes from resounding support and collaboration from the public and private sectors. The overwhelming majority of jobs come from the private sector and nonprofit community, while fewer than 500 positions are in local government. HHY’s goal is to increase our youth’s access to Houston’s dynamic economy and careers and provide them with a transformative “earn and learn” experience. In 2020, I initially challenged my staff and community partners to provide 15,000 jobs, internships, and apprenticeship opportunities, but I could not stop thinking about how Houston has approximately 20,000 gang members. If we want a safe city, we must embrace young people before negative influences steer them in the wrong direction, and we must put the gangs out of business. Therefore, I have raised the bar to 20,000 jobs for 2020. This will be a transformational year for HHY as we further impact the lives of our youth and continue to build Houston’s future workforce. HHY connects young people to mentors, job training, and local resources and support. Working in various positions, young people will meet with career coaches to learn how to complete a successful interview, prepare a resume, make a great first impression, show up to work on time, and complete work responsibilities. The program puts them on a track to succeed in a competitive work environment and gain real world experience. They also have a chance to earn, and for some young people, this is the only money they will have. Some will use it for personal expenses, to help their parents, or to pitch in with household expenses, while others will save for future college or day-to-day living expenses. Regardless of how their money is spent, invested, or saved, we are empowering youth with earnings, financial literacy, and participation in the economy. At a recent Hire Houston Youth kick-off event, former intern Luis Moreno, a University of Houston student, explained why the program is important to him. Moreno grew up in Hiram Clark, the son of immigrants from Mexico. “The Hire Houston Youth program provided an opportunity to learn new skills and better prepare for my future in the workforce,” said Moreno.
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“Not a lot of young people have access to job training. I’m very grateful to Mayor Turner, and I want to encourage others to apply for the positions this year.” HHY ambassadors like Moreno are the reason I am passionate about building this program. I see how it transforms their lives by also building their social capital and emotional skills. I am asking local businesses and nonprofit groups to hire youth for the summer and to add year-round opportunities as well. This program would not be successful without the support of Workforce Solutions, the Greater Houston Partnership, The Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the McDonald’s Owners and Operators Association, United Way, National League of Cities, LinkedIn, Strada Education Network, JP Morgan Chase Foundation, NRG Reliant Charitable Foundation, Cities for Financial Empowerment, the City of Houston’s Human Resources Department, the Mayor’s Office of Education, and so many others. I also want to thank and acknowledge companies like: • McDonald’s committing to 5,000 hires for 2020. • McDonald’s committing to 5,000 hires for 2020. • HEB for hiring 2,000 or more youth every summer • HEB for hiring more youth every summer since being a part 2,000 of the or program. since being a part of the program. • American Pools for hiring hundreds of life guards to • American Poolslast for summer. hiring hundreds of life guards work at local pools to work at local pools last summer. • Student Conservation Association for hiring youth Student Conservation for hiring youth to• work in Green Careers Association at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife to work in Green Careers at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and other agencies. Service and other agencies.
Buffalo Soldiers National Museum “Heal the Armory” 5 in 5 Campaign By d-mars.com News Provider
he Buffalo Soldiers National Museum held a reception to kick off the “Heal the Armory” 5 in 5 Campaign. The 5 in 5 Campaign is a fundraising effort to raise support for the continued restoration of the historical Houston Light Guard Armory. The funds will: • Repair the armory that will ensure the safety of our staff • Retire our long-standing debt which will save on annual expenses • Support our operations and personnel to increase our capacity • Create an endowment that will allow us to continue to advance programs, exhibitions, collections and archive for years to come At the reception, former United States Secretary of State, James A. Baker, III and Buffalo Soldiers National Museum CEO, Desmond Bertrand-Pitts, launched the national fundraising campaign for the Museum. Baker, who served as Honorary Chair, shared remarks on his family’s strong historical ties with the museum, followed by discussion of preservation and plans from architect David Bucek of Stern & Bucek Architects and funds from the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum donor development director Edward Udell, Sr.
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Starting now, employers and youth can visit www. HireHoustonYouth.org to get started. Companies can also donate to the Hire Houston Youth Foundation at www. hirehoustonyouth.org/donate. You can also post your jobs at www.hirehoustonyouth.org/employer. According to the Greater Houston Partnership, 35-40 percent of the jobs in Houston do not require a college degree, but they do require skills and training beyond a high school level. The GHP is working with my administration to build a strong regional economy and enhance the quality of life and opportunity for all young people by building pathways to success. The Hire Houston Youth application process opens on February 10, 2020. Please visit www.hirehoustonyouth. org/youth. The future of our young people and Houston’s workforce is at stake. I hope you join me to increase access to quality ‘earning and learning’ opportunities for all Houston youth. If you have any questions or need more information, please feel free to contact us at hirehoustonyouth@houstontx.go
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February 2020 | 11
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300 Artists
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2 Music Stages
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Food Trucks
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Chef’s Demonstrations
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Children’s Creative Zone Sponsored by Texas Children’s Hospital Specialty Care
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Craft Beer & Wine Garden
MARCH 27-29 2020 FRIDAY - SUNDAY 10 AM TO 6 PM
www.bayoucityartfestival.com #HouArtFest #BayouCityArtFest
TICKETS $12 ONLINE $15 CASH $16 CREDIT FEATURED ARTIST MCKENZIE FISK @ MCKE NZ I E _FI S K_ART
Produced by Art Colony Association, Inc Benefiting Houston Non-Profits
GET YOUR COPY NOW! One thing I am proud of is that 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 and saw we were doing good in the community.
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12 | February 2020 COMMUNITY
Did You K
now?
LAKERS LEGEND KOBE BRYANT KILLED IN HELICOPTER CRASH By Stacy M. Brown Contributing Writer
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os Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna Maria Onore, were among five people killed in a helicopter crash on Sunday, January 26, 2020. Bryant was 41, and his daughter, affectionately known as GiGi, who was only 13. “As the reports came in on the death of Kobe Bryant, his daughter and the other passengers on board his helicopter we all were shocked and saddened by the news of a life gone far too soon,” stated Danny J. Bakewell, Sr., the chairman and executive publisher of NNPA member newspaper, the Los Angeles Sentinel. “Whether you were a Laker fan or not, the news seemed surreal.” Bakewell continued: “This tragic death of a young man dying in the prime of his life is a reminder to us all of just how precious life really is and how we must all embrace life, love and family and never forget what is really important. “Kobe was a warrior on the basketball court, and he seemed to ease his way into retirement life with the same passion and enthusiasm that we all admired when he was playing in the NBA. “My thoughts and prayers go out to his parents, his wife, his children and all those who admired Kobe Bryant not only as a basketball star but as a Man, a Son, a Husband and Father.” Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., the president and CEO of the NNPA, said the Black Press joins with the rest of America in mourning Bryant’s death. “The National Newspaper Publishers Association expresses our profound sympathy and sincerest condolences to the family of Kobe Bryant,” Chavis stated. Denise Rolark Barnes, the publisher of the Washington Informer also offered her condolences to the Bryant family. “Our hearts cry out for Kobe Bryant and his family,” Rolark Barnes stated. “Our memories of his phenomenal life and career will never die.” TMZ reported that the 5-time NBA Champion was en route to his Mamba Academy for a basketball practice when
the crash occurred. The academy is north of Los Angeles in the city of Thousand Oaks. In a statement, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti said Bryant was a giant who inspired, amazed and thrilled people everywhere. “He will live forever in the heart of Los Angeles and will be remembered through the ages as one of our greatest heroes,” Garcetti stated. “This is a moment that leaves us struggling to find words that express the magnitude of shock and sorrow we are all feeling right now, and I am keeping Kobe’s entire family in my prayers at this time of unimaginable grief.” The helicopter, an S-76 owned by Bryant, crashed and caught fire at about 10 a.m. Pacific time, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Rescue crews were on location within moments, but officials said it was too late to save anyone aboard. “He’s way too young,” Laker legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson stated. “I was supposed to pass away before him. He’s gone way too soon. It’s a devastating loss for all of us.” Another Lakers legend, Kareem Abdul Jabbar, who played against Bryant’s father, Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, said he was stunned. “Most people will remember Kobe as the magnificent athlete who inspired a whole generation of basketball players,” Jabbar tweeted. “But I will always remember him as a man who was much more than an athlete.” Shaquille O’Neal, who won three NBA titles with Bryant and the Lakers from 2000 to 2002, tweeted that his late and former teammate was much more than an athlete. “He was a family man. That was what we had most in common,” O’Neal wrote. “I would hug his children like they were my own and he would embrace my kids like they were his. His baby girl Gigi was born
on the same day as my youngest daughter, Me’Arah.” Current Lakers star LeBron James was seen leaving the team’s airplane in tears. He didn’t address reporters. A spokesperson for the Lakers said the team plans to address the heartbreaking matter “soon.” Ken Miller, the publisher of the Inglewood, California-based NNPA member newspaper, Inglewood Today, said he was also in shock and devastated by the news. Miller covered Bryant for years for the Los Angeles Sentinel and said the superstar had previously given him his personal cell phone number. “We are going to do a special edition of our newspaper that will be totally dedicated to Kobe Bryant,” stated Miller, who coincidentally wore a Westchester High School basketball sweatshirt during last week’s NNPA Mid-Winter Training Conference in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The conference concluded just one day before the Bryant tragedy. Years earlier, Nike outfitted Westchester High School’s basketball players with Kobe Bryant’s Zoom Kobe IV sneakers that matched the Westchester’s black and red colors. “When Jerry West drafted Kobe at the age of 17, no one knew exactly what the franchise was getting,” Miller stated. “He evolved to [become], I would say, the greatest Laker of them all, and I had the opportunity to cover and meet him personally and at one time just out of the blue as a reporter. I was so starstruck by him by his air, by his intelligence, and he had a reclusiveness to him as well, that I just walked up to him and asked him for his personal cell phone. He gave it to me, and it was at a time when Shaquille O’Neill was gone, and the Lakers had just won three championships. He ultimately wanted to connect with the African American community.” Born in Philadelphia in 1978, Bryant was initially drafted by the Charlotte Hornets with the 13th overall pick of the 1996 NBA draft, but forced a post-draft trade to the Lakers, stating it was the only team he’d
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join. Bryant spent his entire career with the Lakers, winning five NBA championships and the 2008 MVP Award. He topped Michael Jordan for third place on the NBA all-time scoring list in December 2014 and retired in 2016 after scoring 60 points in his final game. His uniform numbers 8 and 24 were both retired by the franchise, making him the only NBA star to have two numbers retired with the same team. In 2018, Bryant earned an Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film for Dear Basketball. The late superstar supported at least seven charities and foundations, including AfterSchool All-Stars, Aid Still Required, Cathy’s Kids Foundation, and the Kobe and Vanessa Bryant Family Foundation, where he and his wife are dedicated to improving the lives of youth and families in need, both domestically and globally. The foundation provides financial resources and develops unique programs that serve to strengthen communities through educational and cultural enrichment opportunities. Even as a lifelong New York Knicks fan, a team that saw Bryant crush their hopes on many a night, the death of the man known as “The Black Mamba” is as stunning as any this reporter has seen. In 1979, in a similarly shocking tragedy, during a season in which they were trying to defend their World Series title, the New York Yankees lost their beloved captain, Thurman Munson, in a plane crash. While Munson was only one of the cogs in a Yankee team that had captured backto-back titles in 1977 and 1978, Bryant was the unquestioned leader of the Lakers, one of the most storied franchises in sports, who turned out such superstars as Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul Jabbar, James Worthy, and Shaquille O’Neal. “He was the greatest of all Lakers,” Magic Johnson stated Bryant is survived by his wife, Vanessa Laine Bryant, and children Natalia, Bianka, and Capri. Source: NNPA
February 2020 | 13 COMMUNITY
Black History Month: Spotlighting A Decade of Struggle violence. The ten years that followed the Montgomery Bus Boycott saw some of the most critical milestones in black history.
By J Thomas Smith Contributing Writer
ne of the most noteworthy periods of The Civil Rights Movement was 1955 to 1965. During that period, there was a struggle in the center of the country. It was a struggle to determine whether America would live up to its creed as a land of equal opportunity for everyone. That became “The Civil Rights Movement.”
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We must not be confused. The Civil Rights Movement was not merely a loud argument over the lack of equality in this country. Many of the events recorded by history, and indelibly marked in the memory of those who lived through them became brutal and deadly. Those who were involved in the struggle on both sides were mortally serious about their respective causes. They were willing to fight and to even die to see their purpose fulfilled. The battle became a battle for the heart and soul of America and lasted for years. There was steady progress, but there were tremendous sacrifices made by the leaders of the movement who were committed to giving a new meaning to the phrase “set my people free.”
* 1957 – President Dwight Eisenhower sent federal troops to Arkansas to secure admission to Little Rock Central High School by nine black students. One of the nine, Ernest Green, was the first African American graduate of the school in 1958. * 1960 – The sit-in at Woolworth’s lunch counter in Greensboro North Carolina set the stage for a nonviolent protest. The sit-in was used with great success as the struggle continued. In March of the same year, 13 students at Texas Southern University stage a sit-in at Weingarten’s.
In all of African-American history, there may be no period more significant since the Civil War (1861-1865), the political and economic battle over slavery, when limited rights for African Americans were won. In the 100 years since the Civil War tensions in the country had been building. Then, the Supreme Court ordered desegregation in the schools in the historic Brown versus the Board of Education of Topeka (347 U.S. 483). That decision set the stage for what was to follow.
Influenced by Martin Luther King, civil disobedience and nonviolent protest became a staple of the civil rights movement.
On December 1, 1955, after a long work day as a seamstress, Rosa Parks defied the law. As an act of civil disobedience, she refused to give up her seat to a white man on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama. It was this incident that shaped the movement and became a great struggle for the rights of African Americans. This incident brought to the front line of the battle one of the most important figures to fight for Civil Rights of that period, the Reverend Martin Luther King who organized the successful Montgomery Bus Boycott. The struggle for freedom in America has never been easy for African-Americans and was met with tremendous
This list, while short, includes some of the most significant events during that decade of the African-American struggle for equal rights in America. This period began a redefinition of rights of all citizens, black and white, on the streets, in the court bench and the different branches of government. Breakthroughs in American Life. While the passage of the legislation was seen as a triumph, defacto discrimination continued as a result of economic inequality. Yet, significant progress continued. African Americans experienced breakthroughs in most areas of American life. From education to entertainment; from politics to sports there were many pride-filled moments. There were also moments of tremendous shame and heinous acts committed by white people and black people as well. However, through the struggle, American society continued to adapt, to expand and embrace the will of the people.
Protect the Franchise.
Brown versus the Board of Education.
Montgomery Bus Boycott.
* 1965 – President Johnson signs Executive Order 11246 on September 24, 1965, requiring no discrimination in hiring and employment by U.S. government contractors.
* 1963 – The historic March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in which over 200,000 people gathered to hear Dr. Kings famous “I Have a Dream” speech, in which he called for an end to racism and civil and economic rights. * 1964 – President Lyndon Johnson signed the bill that was the most significant event of his presidency. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 is a civil rights and labor law that outlawed discrimination based on one’s race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. * 1965 – The assignation of Malcolm X and the Watts race rights.
We have been reminded during the past few years that the struggle is not over. Far from it. Discrimination and hate speech continues to be problematic today. For those who lived through it, it may seem easy to be regretful. But, the gains that have evolved from the struggle might also make one proud. We can be proud of the great leaders who demonstrated tremendous courage and wisdom to lead this nation to a better way of life. We can also be proud of America because it is here where such a struggle can result in equality and freedom for all citizens, regardless of race, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, age, disability or any other attribute that makes one “different.” However, the gains in civil rights must be protected. Our gains must be jealously guarded. Anyone who truly believes in freedom and justice for all should prove it by taking an active role in the process.
We Have a Participatory Democracy. The more that “we the people” are involved, the more democratic America will become. The more we the people are involved, the more impact we will have on in the decision-making process locally, state-wide and nationally. Whether we are involved in a communitybased activity, advocacy work, face-to-face interaction with our political representatives, we the people must participate. Even if “we the people” cannot find the time to be involved in the aforementioned activities, the least we can do is to vote. Your vote is your voice. Speak up!
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14 | February 2020
ROBERTS MARKLAND,
PR ACTICING LAW WITH A PU By d-mars.com News Provider
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oberts Markland, LLP is a Houston based personal injury law firm that specializes in helping those who have been hurt or suffered a catastrophic injury or wrongful death. Law partners Sean Roberts and Clive Markland joined forces and began working together after realizing a shared passion for getting their clients the results they deserve as well as bettering the community around them. Located in the Third Ward of Houston, Roberts Markland, LLP has made it an important part of their mission to give back to the Third Ward community any way they can. They are aware of the on-going process of gentrification occurring in their community, but instead of fighting against it, they are empowering the businesses around them to invest in the community by staying and taking neighborhood improvement matters into their own hands. Roberts and Markland shared insight with d-mars.com on the mission of their law firm and its commitment to bring their neighborhood to its highest potential.
corporations and insurance companies. We do not collect fees until we recover for our clients. We have handled trials and appeals across Texas and the United States, collecting over $500 million in judgments and settlements… the verdicts are public information that we proudly publish on our firm's website. Q: Why is being located in Third Ward significant for your practice? Roberts: It is a great location! We are also very proud of the preservation we were able to accomplish in the neighborhood. Hopefully more professional service businesses will dump paying high rents in the business districts and invest in neighborhoods like Third Ward. Q: You’ve mentioned how important it is to be involved with the community. What are some of the ways you have given back and gotten involved in the community? Markland: We want to be a resource for everyone but especially those who are underrepresented. We offer various resources to the community, including free law library access, pro bono representation, free legal training, free notary services, academic scholarships, internships and more
Q: Let’s start with some background information on Roberts Markland LLP How did you become law partners? Markland: Sean and I had been great friends for many years. We had both done legal work for one another and eventually decided that we could be an incredible force working together. We both have a passion for helping people who need help. We are pleased with the results. Q: What are your main areas of practice? Any significant wins you would like to share? Roberts: Our main areas of practice are catastrophic injury and wrongful death lawsuits and trials against
Q: What kind of programs does Roberts Markland offer? Particularly for those that are disadvantaged? Roberts: In addition to providing pro bono legal services and free access to legal resources, our firm invests heavily in advocating for public policies and legislation to promote fairness and to ending entitlements — particularly entitlements to the rich. We try to even the playing field by making companies and industries that take advantage of people pay a fair price for their wrongful conduct.
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Q: Ro
February 2020 | 15
, LLP
URPOSE
: It is Black History Month, how is this important to oberts Markland? Markland: Houston has an incredible AfricanAmerican culture and contribution to the nation as a whole. Houston has always been an economic engine for this country historically. One of the great things about Houston is not only its African American culture, but also all the other cultures. Houston truly is a melting pot. Roberts: I also think it is important to point out that while we celebrate Black History Month, we are also suing major corporations for reckless contamination of an entire traditionally black neighborhood — acts that would never occur elsewhere. We understand that over 40% of the residents of Fifth Ward have cancer that may have been caused by exposure to toxic chemicals. We have a long way to go even in 2020. We intend to do our part.
CLIVE MARKLAND | SEAN ROBERTS Since its beginnings, Roberts Markland, LLP has gone above and beyond being just a law firm. They have made themselves a part of the community, and in turn, influenced those around them to follow suit and invest in their own neighborhoods. They have taken on the perspective that change is inevitable, but instead of fighting it, they have taken matters into their own hands and made it their mission to make the Third Ward community a thriving and successful neighborhood for its residents.
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16 | February 2020 FINANCES
HOW TO BUILD AN EMERGENCY FUND 2. Reduce your spending.
By Dr. Ben Chavis NNPA Newswire Contributor
T
he Federal Reserve Board reported recently that 40% of people in the U.S. said they would have trouble covering a $400 emergency. Now think back to the last time you had an emergency or unexpected expense. Maybe it was a car repair or medical bill or even paying all your bills until you found a new job. Were you confident you had enough money to cover it? Setting aside hundreds or thousands of dollars for an emergency – and not using it – can seem like a challenge when you have bills and other responsibilities. But building an emergency fund can be done in phases over time, and you can make small changes now to get start growing your fund. Every dollar you save now can help cushion when the next emergency happens.
1. Open and set up automatic deposits to a savings account. First come up with an amount you can afford to save and put toward an emergency fund every month. Consider saving this money in a separate account to help you stay focused on building those savings and avoid spending it. Automatic deposits can make saving easy. For help figuring out what to pay first, check out resources from the Hands on Banking® financial education program.
If you need to change your spending so you have enough money to put aside, start by reviewing your expenses – large and small. For example, the total cost of dining out may be larger than you think. With the average household spending $3,365 a year on eating out, cutting just two meals out a month (meals on average cost $12), saves around $288 a year.1 Another quick way to cut spending is to cancel any memberships and subscriptions you use infrequently or don’t need. Reviewing and cutting your expenses doesn’t have to be a sacrifice, but rather a chance to adjust your spending and saving in line with your priorities.
3. Find ways to make extra cash. There may be opportunities for easy income in your garage, closet, or old storage areas: consider selling old – and unwanted - stuff for a quick stack of cash that you can put in your emergency fund savings account. Online auction sites and marketplaces can help sell your stuff or just use the traditional yard sale. Other work opportunities, whether extra hours or one-off projects, can help bring in extra money to build your emergency fund plus support other financial goals.
– keeping it out of reach of your checking account means it’s harder to spend and there’s a higher chance of saving it.
5. Create a savings challenge You might have started with a smaller savings goal so your fund could grow little by little. Challenge yourself to make a bigger deposit like $50 next month instead of the $25 you deposit on a monthly basis. Then make the same goal again in a few months or even increase it a little. Any amount you contribute is a step in the right direction. By their nature, emergencies happen when you don’t expect them, but planning for them just in case can help you handle them. That’s why an emergency fund is there. If you do have to tap into your emergency savings, that’s what it’s for, but get back on track by committing to building it right back up. Source: NNPA
4. Save “extra” money. Have you received a tax refund, gift, bonus, or raise recently? Consider putting that extra cash into your savings account. Remember
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18 | February 2020 FINANCES
No credit history?
HERE’S HOW TO BUILD ONE By d-mars.com News Provider
A
ccording to a 2015 study by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, roughly one out of 10 American adults are “credit invisible,” meaning they don’t have a credit history with any of the major national credit bureaus (Equifax®, Experian®, or TransUnion®). Because they don’t have a credit history or credit score, this may make it difficult to apply for a credit card, rent an apartment, sign up for cell phone service, or even get a job. Setting up a credit history – and being in good standing – can take time, so here are some actions you can take to establish credit.
Utilities Traditional lenders tend to look at a person’s credit score, but people with little to no credit history generally don’t have enough of a profile to even generate a score. A simple way to get your credit history going is by putting utility bills in your name, such as electricity, heat or rent. Making on time payments to your monthly bills can give lenders or anyone else looking into your credit something to consider when you apply for things like a loan or new apartment. Be sure to keep track of due dates and pay the whole balance each month when you can.
Merchant cards If you frequently shop at a specific business that offers a card for purchases at that business, consider opening an account. For example, if you have a car, a gas credit card could be beneficial because they usually come with discounts, are easier to be approved for and can help you track how much you spend on gas each month. But, be careful when opening a gas card or department store card, as they often come with high interest rates, sometimes 20% or more. Consider
sticking to one card until you get comfortable paying in full and on time to avoid the interest being added to your balance. Dominique Brown, financial advisor and founder of the Your Finances Simplified Academy and YourFinancesSimplified.com, has specific advice for department store cards: They should only be used “for credit building, not for credit [buildup].” When deciding what store card to open, make sure to consider things like: • Interest rate – Is it so high that if you miss a • Interest you’ll rate – have Is it soa high if you miss a paypayment, muchthat larger payment to ment, you’ll have a much larger payment to make the make the next month? next month? ••Reward one offered Rewardpoint pointsystem system– –IsIs one offeredsosothat thatyou you receive rewards to help on future purchases? receive rewards to help savesave on future purchases? Howoften often you – Is– Is it enough to make ••How you shop shopthere there it enough to the card worth it but not encourage you to spend make the card worth it but not encourage more? you to spend more?
A secured credit card A secured credit card is a good option if you have a limited credit history, and you can get one by putting up a deposit. You get the deposit back when you close the card, or at a point when your credit history is stronger. Keep track of what you buy with this card and if you feel ready, put repeat expenses on it like a utility bill. Turn the autopay function on so you don’t miss a payment and can continue working toward good credit.
A small loan You can also consider taking out a small dollar loan which like a secured credit card can help build your credit if you make on time payments and pay the balance in full monthly. There are multiple lenders you could get this kind of loan from
including: • Online lenders: Make sure to do research on these so you know they are trustworthy. • Credit unions: These typically offer loans between $200 to $1,000, but be sure to consider the interest rate that will be applied to a balance that carries over to a new month. • Banks: Some banks and financial institutions offer small loans and may offer low interest rates or discounts for existing customers. With these different options it’s important to shop around and choose a loan that has helpful terms such as: • A low interest rate • Fixed monthly payments • A loan term between three to 12 months Remember to only take on what you can manage. Don’t take out the full loan amount if you don’t need it and make sure to pay on time so your credit isn’t negatively affected.
Have a plan for using credit Once you’ve identified the type of account you are interested in, “start with the end in mind and build your plan to make it happen,” says Brown. “Saying ‘I want to improve my credit’ isn’t a strong enough goal to keep you on track to the credit you deserve.” Create a plan for how you will use it and factor in a monthly spending plan based on your income to figure out how much money you’ll actually be able to put towards building good credit. The bottom line is you need to use credit to build credit. Taking it on can be risky, so ask yourself honestly: Am I ready? If you are, opening one of these types of accounts can be a great first step. Remember to make on time payments every month and keep the balance as low as possible – in fact, strive to pay balance in full monthly. To learn more, check out tips from the online Hands on Banking® financial education program. © 2019 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A, All rights reserved.
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Source: NNPA
February 2020  |  19
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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20 | February 2020 FINANCES By d-mars.com News Provider
6 simple steps
to take control of your finances
A
ndy Harmening, senior executive vice president, Consumer and Business Banking director for Huntington, says personal finances don’t need to be overwhelming. He offers the simple ways to better understand and manage your personal finances in 2020 and beyond: Look at the complete picture: Find out who you owe, interest rates, late fees and timing. Then determine how much is coming in and out each month and understand your investment opportunities and tax picture. Talk to your partner, dependents or other family members and get on the same page. Track your behaviors: Cashless and one-click spending can make it hard to see where your money is going, especially those small purchases that compound quickly. Sophisticated online banking solutions, such as Huntington’s new Spend Analysis tool, can give you an eye-opening look into how your spending adds up so you can make smart adjustments. Automate as much as possible: Direct deposits and automatic bill payments ensure nothing gets overlooked or falls through the cracks in spending and saving. Not to mention, paying bills on time every time helps you maintain
a good credit history and boosts your credit score. Make a plan for debt: From basic control of your budget to plans for consolidating debt and negotiating with creditors, there are many ways to handle debt. Decide which works best for you and take steps to bring debt down. Then, make changes to avoid additional debt. A tool like Huntington Heads Up helps you do this by alerting you about areas where you’ve over spent and might want to pull back. Set goals: It’s never too early to begin your long-term planning for retirement, which should be top of the list for most Americans. Near-term goal planning is essential as well, so keeping your attention on a down payment for a home or reducing credit card debt can help to keep you motivated - as long as you’re balancing your short- and long-term goals. Stay focused: Money can be complicated, and it’s easy to slip up here and there. If you make a mistake, don’t throw in the towel on the progress you’ve made. Regain your focus and stay on track. Your momentum will benefit you in countless ways, from reduced stress and improved confidence to a bigger bank account and more. “With our Midwest Money Mindset survey, we not only know that managing personal finances is a top concern of Americans today, but we’re pleased
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to see people taking action to help manage this incredibly important part of their lives,” Harmening said. “We’re glad Huntington can be part of the solution people are looking for as they improve their financial health.” As we say goodbye to the holidays and hello to a new decade, it comes as no surprise that money is the No. 1 driver of stress for many of us in the Midwest. That’s according to the inaugural Midwest Money Mindset Survey conducted by Huntington. The survey found that 50% of participants cited money and finances as the top driver of stress, ahead of family and personal relationships, employment and health. The survey also dug into the reasons for that stress and found a silver lining: many people are taking steps to take control of their financial well-being. Take a look at these stats: * Compared to a year ago, 68% of participants are either saving more money or the same amount. * More than half of participants (56%) have a retirement account. * Almost two-thirds of survey participants (64%) have established a “rainy day fund.” Source: BPT
February 2020 | 21
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24 | February 2020 TRAVEL TRAVEL
By Valerie Jones and Kim Floyd 2 Girls Who Travel
W
e are such fans of Mexico…it’s become a 2 Girls Who Travel tradition to visit every year – each time traveling to a different city. This past summer, after months of consideration, we opted on visiting Tulum, a small town in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.
Getting to Tulum More than likely, if you’re visiting Tulum, you’ll fly into Cancun International Airport, which is about a 90-minute drive to Tulum. There are a few options on how to get to Tulum — private driver, public bus, car rental, etc. We booked a private driver because our flight landed late afternoon and a bus or any other option that involved multiple drop-offs would have sucked up the remainder of our day. Our Airbnb host helped us book a driver, but there are many reputable companies that offer this mode of airport transfer. Just do a bit of research. For the both of us traveling from Cancun airport to our Airbnb’s front door, it cost 1,500 pesos (about $77 USD), one-way.
Staying in Aldea Zama When it comes to accommodations, most people traveling to Tulum will opt to either stay near the beach or in the jungle. Aldea Zama is an area located in the jungle which is full of luxury residential areas – mostly new builds with a ton more being built. Basically, everything is brand spanking new. We chose to stay in an Airbnb in Aldea Zama. We booked a two-bedroom, two-and-a-half bath condo with a private pool for just about $120 USD per night (including all associated fees). We were very pleased. There was air conditioning in each room, three televisions, Wi-Fi, full kitchen and even two free bikes to use. And this was just one of many available Airbnbs in Aldea Zama (some were even cheaper). You’ll typically catch a great deal because of construction and the fact that the area is developing, there’s not as much touristy stuff close by. But there was a pharmacy, small convenience store and a cute cafe all within a few steps of our condo, so purchasing
necessities like bottled water and snacks was not a problem. Seriously, Aldea Zama is soooo much more affordable than staying in one of the resorts by the beach. Granted, if you’re going for the whole beachfront, resort-style vacay, then this may be a non-negotiable for you. But for those who aren’t tied to the beach, you could get an Airbnb for half of what you would pay to stay at the beach.
Getting Around in Tulum Taxis are plentiful in Tulum and we never had an issue getting one. Taxis to/from Aldea Zama into town or the beach ranged from 100-250 pesos (about $5-$13 US dollars) for our entire stay. Most of the time, our taxi rides were 150 pesos. Uber and Lyft aren’t currently available in Tulum. If you’re feeling froggy, you can also bike around Tulum. We saw several people biking from Aldea Zama into town and it wasn’t odd to see people going to the beach on a bike. However, between the sun and some of the driving we witnessed, we opted not to take the bikes. Walking is also an option, but probably only into town if you’re staying in Aldea Zama. Walking to the beach would just be too much of a trek. So, there you have it — what you need to know about getting to Tulum, why Aldea Zama is an attractive option for accommodations and how to get around in Tulum.
Expect to spend about an hour here exploring…oh yeah and a few tips! • Explore independently. They’ll try to get you to book a guided tour with them, but unless you plan on swimming or taking a water excursion, it’s not necessary. * Arrive early to avoid crowds and while the weather is cooler. * Pack bottled water. There’s nowhere to get water after you pass the entrance, so be sure to pack some in your backpack. * Ruins admission is exact change only. At the time we went, it was 75 pesos. • Spend a day at the beach. This pretty much goes without saying, but definitely go to the beach. Tulum is known for swanky beachside hotels and resorts and high-end restaurants. We happened to visit the beach on a day where the weather was beautiful and the beach wasn’t crowded so we laid out and enjoyed some drinks. *Note: a lot of the beach clubs will allow you access to the cabanas if you purchase food or drinks.
Best Things to do in Tulum!
• Check out the IK Art Gallery. If you want modern/ contemporary art combined with treehouse vibes, then the IK Lab is for you. It’s located in the seaside Azulik Resort. You must take your shoes off upon entrance (we’re assuming to help preserve the wood) and then you can follow the curves of the gallery. Admission is free, but tips are accepted.
It’s a super cute town with tons of varied experiences for any traveler. • Go to a cenote. Literally every single person in Tulum asked us if we had/were going to see a cenote when they found out we were travel writers. However, we didn’t visit one! But that was mostly due to time constraints. Listen, the cenotes in and around Tulum are gorgeous. We’re sure you’ve seen enough Instagram posts and travel photos to know that. Aside from gorgeous photos, you can dive into and swim in some.
• Sample some amazing food. Plan to visit some downtown restaurants and beachside spots. Some of the best food we had was from a small restaurant called Sabor de Mar. We had amazing shrimp ceviche, shrimp tacos and fresh guacamole. So good!
• Visit the Mayan Ruins. Something we knew we wanted to do while in Tulum was visiting the Mayan ruins there. These ruins are located on high cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
For more pictures, details and tips about traveling to Tulum, 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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