Business Journal 176 by d-mars.com

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BUSINESS JOURNAL

April 2022

Inspire, Inform & Educate

176th Edition

The Sisters Network® Inc.’s 12th Annual Stop the Silence 5K Walk/Run Continues to Fight Breast Cancer Locally and Nationally

Karen Eubanks Jackson, Founder and CEO of Sisters Network® Inc. 10-11

INSIDE

Mostyn Law & 1800 truck wreck Award $15,000 To Heartbeat Of The Campus Winners

Houston Texans And Texas Southern University Announce Partnership

Prepare your kids for wealth!

2 | April 2022

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d-mars.com is proud to continue our partnership with the community, publishing positive content and success stories promoting the advancement of our African American businesses and civic and community leaders. This month’s cover story highlights Sisters Network® Inc. (SNI), a necessary resource locally and nationally helping to fight breast cancer in the African American community for nearly three decades. Founder and CEO Karen Eubanks Jackson is a 28-year four-time breast cancer survivor and author who is recognized nationally as a true visionary and national leader in the Black breast cancer movement. In 1994, Jackson founded SNI during her personal fight to survive breast cancer

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CONTENTS COVER STORY The Sisters Network® Inc.’s 12th Annual Stop the Silence 5K Walk/Run Continues to Fight Breast Cancer Locally and Nationally

PUBLISHER & CEO Keith J. Davis, Sr.

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla

— Sisters Network® Inc national creed

METRO

BEHIND THE JOURNAL

CHIEF OF STAFF & MANAGING EDITOR Kimberly Floyd

“In Unity there is Strength, In Strength there is Power, In Power there is Change.”

and recognized a lack of “sisterhood” in traditional organizations, a staggering breast cancer mortality rate for African American women, and limited culturally sensitive material. Often referred to as a “breast cancer champion,” Jackson’s primary motivation was to break through the silence and shame of breast cancer that immobilizes African American women, restricts their ability to receive support services, interferes with early detection, and ultimately affects their survival rates. SNI is the nation’s largest and only national Black breast cancer survivorship organization. As always, thank you for your continued support of d-mars.com, progressing our publication’s efforts to highlight the communities in which we serve, live, and work. Partnering together, we succeed in making positive things happen.

10-11 04 BUSINESS 04 With a Rise in Fraud and Online Theft, Consumers Must Be Vigilant 06 How to Close Security Gaps for Your Distributed Organization 07 Women-owned Businesses: Here’s How To Take Your Business to the 08 How IT Teams Can Make the Most of Networking And Why It’s Important 12 COMMUNITY 12 4 Myths About the Rewarding Profession of Caregiving 13-20 HEALTH & WELLNESS 14 The Top Love Needs of Women and Men 16 Lupus Warrior Kennetra “Kiki” Searcy and the Lupus Foundation of America – Texas Gulf Coast Chapter 17 7 Tips for Choosing a Primary Care Doctor 18 Congrats to History Maker Dr. Anjanette Wyatt, CEO of Clinical Care Pharmacy, LLC! 22 EDUCATION & CAREER 22 Graduating This Spring? Reasons To Consider a Home Healthcare Career 23 Mostyn Law & 1800 truck wreck Award $15,000 To Heartbeat Of The Campus Winners 24 Equal Pay: How Women Can Benefit From a Career in Construction 24 TSU, Southwest Airlines Announced Major Partnership 26 Houston Texans And Texas Southern University Announce Partnership

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4 | April 2022 BUSINESS

With a Rise in

Fraud and Online Theft, Consumers Must Be Vigilant

consumers and bring fraudsters to justice." Postal Inspectors provide helpful tips for consumers to protect themselves from fraud, including issues related to:

By d-mars.com News Provider

he Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported receiving 5.7 million fraud reports in 2021, with consumers losing more than $5.9 billion to fraud, up from $3.3 billion the year prior. Furthermore, the coronavirus pandemic and rise in digital and online technologies have only exacerbated the rise in overall consumer fraud, as criminals sought to take advantage of the fears of the public by exploiting public health issues, spreading misinformation, and creating confusion. Both public and private sectors are working together to respond to consumer complaints and enhance protections by helping consumers become more vigilant and aware of the signs of fraud. As part of these efforts, The U.S. Postal Inspection Service - the law enforcement agency responsible for enforcing federal statutes involving crimes against the Postal Service, its employees, and customers - along with the FTC, other federal agencies, private sector companies, and consumer protection organizations, make it their mission to educate and inform

• Veterans Scams • Elder Fraud • Cybercrime • Election Mail Security • Coronavirus-related Scams • Identity Theft • Mail Fraud • Mail & Package Theft • Suspicious and Dangerous Mail

So how do you guard yourself from potential fraud?

consumers of their rights and share fraud prevention tips. The security of the U.S. Mail and its employees is the top priority of the Postal Inspection Service. For nearly 250 years, Postal Inspectors have worked to protect Americans from financial fraud and scams. "Anyone can be a victim of a scam, with the right pitch," said Gary R. Barksdale, Chief Postal Inspector. That's why prevention is one of our most important pillars in the mission to protect

• Never provide personal information over the phone or Internet unless you initiated the contact and you are sure the company/individual is legitimate • Never send money to unknown individuals • Do not respond to spam or unsolicited emails • Monitor credit card expiration dates and contact the issuer if you don't receive a replacement prior to the expiration date • Review your credit reports annually • Read everything given or mailed to you by the person or company soliciting your money - including the "fine print." • Do your due diligence. Check out the company with the Better Business Bureau, your state's Office of the Attorney General, or AARP's Fraud Fighter Call Center at 800-646-2283, and ask for help determining if an offer is legitimate or not. • Do an online search, to see others' experiences with the business. • Reduce unwanted telemarketing calls.

Take advantage of call blocking services, some of which are free, or purchase a call-blocking device.

Anyone can be a victim of a scam, with the right pitch,”

For more fraud prevention tips, visit uspis.gov/tips-prevention. If you are a victim or have witnessed a mail-related crime, alert Postal Inspectors by calling 877-876-2455.

said Gary R. Barksdale, Chief Postal Inspector

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Source: BPT

April 2022 | 5

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6 | April 2022 BUSINESS

How to Close Security Gaps for Your

Distributed Organization stolen devices, creating password complexity, and using multi-factor authentication.

By d-mars.com News Provider

ne of the most dramatic changes of the past two years has been the growth of distributed organizations - workplaces where employees are now working remotely 50% or more of the time. While employees and employers have come to appreciate that flexibility, a major concern with distributed organizations involves heightened cybersecurity risks. One of these risks is that employees working from home, coffee shops, and other locations could be using unsecure networks. To help ensure that all workers are logging into company networks securely, it's vital to have a rigorous security strategy that can adapt to evolving threats.

Hereare aretips tipstotohelp helpclose closepotential potentialsecurity security Here gaps for your employees, no matter where gaps for your employees, no matter where they’re working. they're working. 1. Educate employees on security best practices Your IT department needs to keep employees updated on the latest network security protocols, as well as alerting them to new threats. Make sure they educate all of your employees on a regular basis, so everyone keeps cybersecurity top of mind. One of the biggest risks to your company is employees connecting to your network using an open home Wi-Fi network or unsecured public Wi-Fi network. Train employees on your organization's best practices and protocols when accessing your company's network. Make sure everyone understands your company's security measures when using their devices, plus best practices for avoiding phishing scams, reporting lost or

2. Implement multi-factor authentication Everyone has experienced forgetting a password - and may have reused passwords occasionally to avoid forgetting them. There's even a name for it: password fatigue. But using complex passwords is even more crucial today, with cybercrime on the rise. Fortunately, there are ways to avert the risks created by password reuse. One tactic is to use a password manager, which generates complex passwords and keeps track of them for you. Another is to implement multi-factor authentication (MFA). Multi-factor authentication is a digital identity verification system requiring users to pass more than one authentication checkpoint. To log into systems configured with MFA, you first enter your username and password, then you're prompted to enter something else like a onetime access code sent through an authenticator app via email or text. MFA is a fairly easy-to-implement system that can increase security systemwide, making it harder for bad actors to penetrate your network. 3. Use patch management Patch management is a critical pillar of cyber defense, yet many organizations struggle with patching in their hybrid work environment. This is due to the lack of visibility into user devices, the frequency of new patches introduced by software vendors - and the need to leverage complicated workflows to manage patching across multiple operating systems. Fortunately, Patch Management from JumpCloud gives IT admins greater insight into system vulnerabilities, allowing them to deploy automated patch updates and strengthen overall security. IT admins can use Patch

Management to report on operating system patches and versions and see patch versions across their remote fleet, managing Mac and Windows updates and patches from the JumpCloud console easily and quickly.

"We know users don't update their devices with bug fixes or security patches with any regularity," said Greg Armanini, senior director of product management, JumpCloud.

"This creates huge security gaps for every organization, especially those that are distributed, which is almost every organization today. Patch Management solves this problem, and delivers robust updates that improve security and enhance organization protection." "JumpCloud has been essential in consolidating our cloud directory, single-sign-on, multi-factor authentication, mobile device management, and more," said Ricky Jordan, senior computer systems admin at Primitive Skate. "Patch Management removes a huge IT burden and lets us fortify our cyber defenses with greater control over, and insight into, system vulnerabilities. I can't imagine trying to manage a modern workplace without JumpCloud." JumpCloud gives admins a single cloud directory platform to secure all their users in any device environment, wherever work happens. Visit JumpCloud.com to learn more.

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Source: BPT

April 2022 | 7 BUSINESS

Women-owned Businesses: Here’s How To Take Your Business to the Next Level By d-mars.com

your customer base.

News Provider

Embrace Embracethe thedigital digitaltransformation transformation

f you've launched a small business or dream of becoming a business owner, the task may seem daunting. The good news is, helpful resources and funding sources - are available to support you as you plan, start and grow your business. Here are tips specifically for women and women of color business owners, that will help take business operations to the next level.

Build Buildyour yourbrand brandimage image To make an impression in today's digital landscape, it's crucial for your brand to be clearly defined and communicated. If branding is not your expertise, it's worth the investment to hire someone to bring their experience and market know-how to creating your brand and developing a strategy to communicate your brand effectively. Knowing what your brand means and how your product or services fulfill your vision will help your business stand out from the competition.

Optimize Optimizesocial socialmedia media To generate positive word-of-mouth, offer exceptional services and rapid communication. It's also vital to take advantage of today's digital landscape by maximizing your social media presence. Create relevant content and positively engage with your audience on their favorite platforms to build brand awareness - and a loyal following. Develop a social media strategy and content creation calendar focused on how your company engages with

If your small business hasn't yet mastered ways to accept digitized payments online or in-store, now's the time to get on board. According to data from the latest Visa Back to Business Study, more than two-thirds (68%) of the female consumers surveyed said they anticipate shifting to being completely cashless within 10 years. In the U.S., e-commerce has grown significantly in the last year and that trend is likely to continue in the future. Relatedly, 3 in 4 (76%) of women-owned businesses surveyed in the Visa Back to Business Study agreed accepting new forms of payment is fundamental to their business's growth. To help your customers pay for goods and services using their computer or mobile device, Visa offers a variety of resources and digital tools.

Constantlypursue pursue Constantly funding opportunities funding opportunities Beyond discovering resources via the Small Business Administration at sba.gov, be on the lookout for ad hoc programs focusing on women and people of color to help you get needed funding. For example, visit websites like IFundWomen.com and BlackGirlVentures.org for information, tips, and pitching opportunities.

Right now, Visa is partnering with Black Girl Ventures to help provide hyperlocal grants and mentorship, plus access to partners, products, and marketing to help drive growth to minority-owned small businesses. If you live in Atlanta or Detroit you can sign up to participate in upcoming pitching opportunities here. This partnership builds on Visa's commitment to support entrepreneurs in cities with the highest concentration of Black-owned businesses in the U.S. - Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit, Los Angeles, Miami, and Washington, D.C. "Through this partnership, Black Girl Ventures and Visa are able to assist entrepreneurs at a time when they need it the most and provide a megaphone to each of these community's most pressing needs," said Shelly Omilâdè Bell, founder, and CEO, Black Girl Ventures. For more information on how Visa is supporting Black women-owned businesses, visit the She's Next Homepage. Or to learn more about the programs Visa has made available for small business owners to succeed, visit the Visa Small Business Hub. This article is intended to provide general information and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. It's always a good idea to consult a legal, tax, or financial advisor for specific information on how certain laws apply to you and about your individual financial situation.

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Source: BPT

8 | April 2022 BUSINESS

How IT Teams Can Make the Most of Networking - And Why It’s Important By d-mars.com News Provider

f you're an IT professional, you've probably experienced times when you feel isolated in your own information bubble. Your daily tasks, on top of your short- and long-term professional goals, are usually more than enough to demand your full attention. But if you haven't had the opportunity to get outside of that bubble and network with other IT pros, you could be missing out - not only on ways to advance your career, but also to learn about the latest innovations and thought leadership in your field. As an industry, IT is continually evolving, sometimes at a breakneck pace, so connecting with your colleagues both within and outside your organization is crucial to staying ahead of the game and doing your best, for yourself and your team. What are the benefits of networking with others in your field? Here are some ways you can benefit from making those connections:

podcast or join their Slack group. Identify high-profile thought leaders in your field so you can follow and engage with them. Don't be shy! Follow them on LinkedIn and connect with them occasionally by asking questions or commenting on their posts. Email or message them to thank them for their contributions or just to connect on a professional level.

JumpCloud Community features conversations about all things IT - alongside sharing best practices, career guidance, and news about timely industry topics and products. The community also features a variety of helpful guides and templates for IT admins in their everyday work, career spotlights for those in the field, and an IT meetup network that takes place both virtually and in person. "Continual growth and learning are essential to staying ahead in the IT industry, and there's nothing better for that growth than making professional connections," said Becky Scott, head of community at JumpCloud. "IT admins at small- to medium-size businesses, in particular, will find that they really benefit from networking with their peers throughout the industry." Ready to get started with your professional networking goals? Learn more at Community. JumpCloud.com.

Network on a local and national scale

* Staying current on IT news and trends * Learning about career opportunities * Building your own personal brand * Exchanging ideas and insights with peers * Expanding your IT knowledge base * Finding resources to boost your skillset * Meeting leaders in your field who could become mentors

Attend regional and national industry conferences, seminars, and lectures when possible. First search for local meetup or networking IT groups on Meetup.com, or via social networking sites like LinkedIn. Then widen your scope to include national and even international groups. Many IT practitioners expand their networking opportunities by attending conferences like Dreamforce, CiscoLive, and London Tech Week.

To get started, begin with your own company - then start expanding your networking opportunities outward. Encourage your organization's peers to do the same, so you can all benefit from the increased knowledge and professional connections you develop.

Join an online community forum To connect with other IT professionals virtually and stay up to date on industry news and best practices, the

Connecting within your own team How long has it been since you brainstormed and shared ideas with your own colleagues about the challenges you're all facing? When you're at your busiest, connecting with your peers in your company may consist of brief check-ins, plus requests for assistance or information when needed. Create opportunities to meet regularly with IT colleagues in your own business to discuss issues and goals, as well as new insights, information, and resources some of you may have discovered that could be helpful to the whole team.

Follow and engage with thought leaders To stay on top of innovations - and challenges - in your industry, subscribe to top IT newsletters, podcasts, and webinars that provide useful information and conversations in the IT space. You can even find groups that cater to your exact area of expertise. For example, if you're a Mac admin, you can follow the MacAdmins

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Source: BPT

April 2022 | 9

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10 | April 2022

A Leader in th

BLACK BREAS CANCER MOV

for Nearly Three

Sisters Network® Inc. has remained a necessary and vital resource and the voice for Black women in the fight against breast cancer for nearly three decades. What makes Sisters Network special is we are the only national Black breast cancer survivor organization. We have an extensive network of affiliate chapters around the United States to serve Black women. Since 1994, through our programs, Sisters Network has been on the front lines providing emotional support to thousands of Black women facing breast cancer, providing educational resources and mammograms/ ultrasounds, and contributing nearly $1 million in financial assistance.”

By d-mars.com News Provider

isters Network® Inc. (SNI) has remained a necessary resource locally and nationally, helping to fight breast cancer in the African American community for nearly three decades. Founder and CEO Karen Eubanks Jackson is a 28-year four-time breast cancer survivor and author who is recognized nationally as a true visionary and national leader in the Black breast cancer movement. In 1994, Jackson founded SNI during her personal fight to survive breast cancer and recognized a lack of “sisterhood” in traditional organizations, a staggering breast cancer mortality rate for African American women, and limited culturally sensitive material. Often referred to as a “breast cancer champion,” Jackson’s primary motivation was to break through the silence and shame of breast cancer that immobilizes African American women, restricts their ability to receive support services, interferes with early detection, and ultimately affects their survival rates. SNI is the nation’s largest and only national Black breast cancer survivorship organization. Jackson, along with a dedicated staff, partners, sponsors, and other supporters continue to lead SNI’s nationwide effort to focus the spotlight on increasing breast cancer awareness in our community. The organization provides standardized national educational outreach programs, survivor and family support, empowerment, hope, and financial assistance to thousands of women annually through its national network of over 30 survivor-run affiliate chapters. One of SNI’s efforts is

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the 12th Annual Stop the Silence 5K Walk/Run held on Saturday, April 23rd at Discovery Green. SNI continues to be the leader in the Black breast cancer movement supporting thousands of Black women for nearly three decades.

April 2022 | 11

Q&A With Sisters Network Inc.:

ST AST VEMENT Karen Eubanks Jackson, Founder and CEO of Sisters Network® Inc.

e Decades

D-MARS: Since your efforts over the years, have you seen more African American women in our community be more proactive when it comes to breast cancer screenings and regular exams? SN: Black women are being diagnosed more frequently with breast cancer and dying at alarming rates as compared to white women and other ethnicities. While we are seeing an increase in Black women talking about breast health awareness, and getting mammograms there is still much more work to be done. We need our women to also participate in clinical trials so we can get better treatment and save more lives. Black breast cancer is just different, and more research is needed. Sisters Network won’t stop advocating, educating, and supporting Black women until breast cancer is no longer a crisis in our community. D-MARS: How has Sisters Network adapted during the pandemic, continuing to successfully serve the community? SN: While the pandemic has been challenging, it also opened up new opportunities for the organization to expand its footprint by hosting a series of virtual educational webinars and a major event last October. “The State of Black Breast Cancer Crisis,” “A National Town Hall,” and “Call to Action” attracted over 2,000 participants. D-MARS: Talk about the 12th Annual Stop the Silence 5K Walk/Run this month and how it’s an important initiative to continue your service in our community and around the nation. SN: Funds raised from the 12th Annual Stop the Silence 5K Run/Walk will support Sisters Network Inc. Breast Cancer Assistance Program (BCAP). Established in 2006, BCAP provides much-needed financial support to survivors and pays for mammograms for uninsured and underinsured women nationwide. To date, the program has provided nearly $1 million dollars in financial support and early detection screenings. Since 2010, the Stop the Silence 5KWalk/Run has attracted over 5,000 participants each year from around the nation who come together to walk in honor, memory, and celebration of the women they love who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. The event is generously supported by Pfizer, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Eisai, Natrelle, TDECU and HEB. D-MARS: Are there any recent awards/honors that you want to mention? SN: Founder and CEO Mrs. Jackson has been honored and recognized for her tireless work in the breast cancer community by BET, the Lance Armstrong Foundation, and Essence Magazine just to name a few. Here are some recent honors Mrs. Jackson has received: Mrs. Jackson was invited to the White House by President Joe Biden as a National Cancer Leader/Advocate to hear more about his war on cancer as he relaunches the Moonshot 2.0 Cancer Initiative. Sisters Network Inc. has been named and certified as America’s Best Charities. Mrs. Jackson recently received recognition for her outstanding work in the cancer community from The Cancer Health 25, and Mrs. Jackson recently received the “She Believed She Could, So She Did” Award from Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine. D-MARS: Sisters Network is the largest and only national Black breast cancer survivor-run organization, now with a new affiliate chapter in Montgomery, Alabama. What does this mean for the organization as a whole? Our organization is continuing to expand into new cities with our affiliate chapter network. Currently, we have 30 survivor-run affiliate chapters and are excited to welcome our new sisters in Montgomery, Alabama. We also have three more chapters that will be announced very soon.

For more information about Sisters Network Inc., please visit www.sistersnetworkinc.org, and for more about how you can support the 12th Annual Stop the Silence 5K Walk/Run, please visit www.stopthesilencewalk.org.

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12 | April 2022 COMMUNITY

4 Myths About the Rewarding Profession of

CAREGIVING

By Lauren Victoria Burke NNPA Newswire Contributor

he number of baby boomers, a demographic with 52 million people who are 65 and older, is projected to double by 2060. Many from this group will want to stay in their homes. In fact, a recent AARP study from November 2021 finds that 77% of older adults want to remain in their homes for the long term. That's where caregivers come in. They can help seniors gain independence, not lose it. This article busts some myths about caregivers that may be keeping some people from a rewarding profession.

Myth #1: You need a medical background to be a caregiver.

"There is an increased need for a different type of caregiver - someone who can go beyond daily tasks and form actual relationships with clients to help them thrive and live more purposeful lives," said Carl McManus, CEO, Comfort Keepers, North America. "We believe in caring for our caregivers because their job is essential in bringing hope, joy, and meaning to so many people's lives. By properly investing in our caregivers, we are offering more than a job - it's an opportunity for a meaningful, professional, long-term career."

Myth #3: Caregiving can be too challenging or time-consuming. We've already discussed the unique skills and talents caregivers need. Maybe you love to cook. Maybe technology is your thing. Whatever your expertise, you can offer customized services to meet the needs of seniors or other adults in need of assistance within a flexible schedule. But more important, caregivers provide moments of joy big or small every day. As a caregiver, you can help prepare meals and cook; offer conversation, companionship, and transportation; run errands; help with personal care; provide Alzheimer's/dementia care; and more. The rewards are as tangible for the caregiver as they are for the person receiving care.

Not true. All you need is a caring heart. Look at this list of people well suited to a caregiving career: * Retirees and soon-to-be retirees: If you're preparing to retire, flexible part-time work may appeal. Especially work that lets you give back to the community while staying connected. * Health care: Although having a background in health care is not necessary, those already in the field like the benefits of working in a home with clients they know. * Retail, food service, and childcare: The skills from these jobs allow you to transfer your passion for helping people into a personally rewarding job. * Domestic skills: If you love cooking and connecting with people, caregiving offers a flexible job with purpose and meaning. In fact, a recent caregiver survey stated the top three unique skills or traits caregivers bring are 1) cooking, 2) passion/love for caregiving and 3) people skills/good conversationalists. * Emerging job seekers: For nursing students or people just starting out in their career, caregiving provides an admirable first job and an invaluable experience.

Myth #2: I am a caregiver only if I care for a family member or someone who lives with me. Caregivers come from different walks of life. Some are teachers taking on caregiving as a part-time way to give back. Some caregivers are retired or semi-retired, offering their unique skills to help older adults with limitations stay in their homes and communities. Some are just starting out in their careers. Some work full-time as caregivers.

Myth #4: Caregiving is viewed as negative at a time when someone is losing independence. Think of caregiving as a way to help people keep their independence. Aging doesn't have to mean seniors have to stop living. Caregiving allows older adults to thrive. Comfort Keepers, a leading provider of uplifting care for seniors and adults needing assistance, bases caregiving on the insight that getting older doesn't change what we all want in life - connectedness, love, purpose, hope, and joy. The need for caregivers makes it more important than ever to invest in them, according to Comfort Keepers. In a recent survey of nearly 1,000 Comfort Keepers caregivers, respondents reported being satisfied with the personal fulfillment gained in their job (90%) and the flexibility of being an in-home care provider (93%). For most respondents (90%), the ability to make a difference in the lives of clients is the most important thing about working as a caregiver. By 2030 the boomer population will outnumber children. The need for caregivers has never been higher, nor more rewarding. In addition to making clients' lives brighter, safer, and more enjoyable, caregivers deliver the companionship, inspiration, and happiness people deserve. Source: BPT

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d-mars.com April 2022 | 13

FREE

HEALTH & WELLNESS JOURNAL

April 2022

Inspire, Inform & Educate

30th Edition

d-mars.com Health & Wellness Spotlight on Lupus Warrior

KENNETRA

“KIKI” SEARCY and the Lupus Foundation of America – Texas Gulf Coast Chapter

INSIDE

The Top Love Needs of Women and Men

7 Tips for Choosing a Primary Care Doctor Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

Congrats to History Maker Dr. Anjanette Wyatt, CEO of Clinical Care Pharmacy, LLC!

14 | April 2022 HEALTH

The Top Love Needs of Women and Men Tami V. Allen, MS, LPC Contributing Writer

emember the book by John Gray, “Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus?” In my counseling sessions with couples, men and women both continue to report they don’t know what makes their partner happy. While each person is different, there are some fundamentally basic love needs of each and if honored, there is room to improve the quality of interaction in your relationship.

Women’sTop TopLove LoveNeeds: Needs: Women’s 1. For women, unconditional love and acceptance are usually communicated through encouragement, compliments, considering her thoughts and opinions: valuable, actively listening, and spending quality time with her. Nothing energizes a woman more than hearing her partner tell her how beautiful and loved she is, demonstrating that she holds first place, pointing out and supporting her in reaching her potential, and telling her how much she is appreciated. 2. Emotional intimacy and communication mean that a woman wants to feel vulnerable and safe to share inner thoughts, and feelings, and reveal her true self without feeling judged. Emotional intimacy means that she wants to feel emotionally and mentally connected before being sexually connected. 3. Women desire a spiritual connection with God’s foundation interwoven throughout the relationship. She desires her partner to be the spiritual leader of the home according to God’s design. A woman needs encouragement to grow by using her spiritual gifts, to maintain her individual interests, and prayers. 4. Companionship to a woman means growing together, laughing and playing together, staying the course when things get tough, and heart-to-heart

communication.

Men’sTop TopLove LoveNeeds: Needs: Men’s 1. Unconditional love, respect, and acceptance of a man mean accepting him for who he is and not trying to change him. It also means occasionally putting

aside personal needs to meet his needs. 2. Sexual intimacy includes passion and the desire to please the woman he loves. Sexual rejection can make a man shut down, withdraw, and at worse, look for a sexual connection outside of the relationship. 3. Companionship to a man means he needs to know you are his “ride or die.” Can he count on you to be the one he opens his heart to, be his safe place to face his pain, love him sacrificially, and be his best friend? 4. Men also need to grow spiritually and the encouragement and affirmation from their partner to be the spiritual leader of the home which is the most difficult role they will ever take on. A woman should encourage her man to connect with God, his family, and other men of faith. She can also encourage him to spend time in the Word and pray for and with him to meet his spiritual need.

Take a little time every day to focus on your partner’s love needs. Meeting your partner’s love needs is one of the most important responsibilities in your relationship and is sure to bring you closer together.

713.597.4499 877.214.5758 President, Lead Therapist and Mediator at Allen Counseling Group, PLLC. Licensed Professional Counselor approved by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Licensed Professional Counselors. Texas Certified Mediator - Parenting agreements and relationship dissolution.

“As your relationship coach, I will work with you to identify unhealthy communication patterns, recover from affairs, stop living like roomates, and revitalize your relationship.”

Specializing in Relationship and Self-Improvement counseling for an exclusive clientele of: - professionals - entrepreneurs - celebrities - athletes Desire Full Confidentiality while working through personal challenges. No worries about sitting in an office wondering who may “see you” because we offer Tele-Conferencing from the location of your convenience. speciali in working with couples, While I specialize I also work with individuals who want to improve their self-esteem and achieve their personal goals.

I have appointments available in the evenings and on Saturdays to fit your schedule.

As your Relationship Coach, my goal is to work with individuals and couples to improve communication and restore confidence in your relationships. For more information about me and my services, please visit my website at www. AllenCounselingGroup.com. You call also reach me by email at Tami@AllenCounselingGroup.com or by phone at 713-597-4499. Like and follow the Allen Counseling Group on social media: FB: @AllenCounseling2017 IG: @AllenCounselingGroup Twitter: @CounselingAllen

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theallencg@gmail.com www.allencounselinggroup.com

April 2022 | 15

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16 | April 2022 HEALTH

d-mars.com Health & Wellness Spotlight

on Lupus Warrior

KENNETRA “KIKI” SEARC

and the Lupus Foundation of America – Texas Gulf Coast Chapte By d-mars.com News Provider

he Lupus Foundation of America - Texas Gulf Coast Chapter is part of a national force devoted to solving the cruel mystery of lupus while providing caring support to those who suffer from its brutal impact. Under the leadership of chapter CEO Anne Marie Blacketer, the chapter's annual fundraising efforts support important community outreach, research, education programs as well as the P.A.T.H. grant program, so all those affected by lupus can have an improved quality of life. “Lupus Warriors are often overlooked. Yet, the disease is serious and often leads to lupus nephritis, a severe kidney complication. Access to high healthcare standards for ALL Lupus Warriors is essential to maintain quality of life and improved outcomes,” says Blacketer. One of the chapter’s many efforts is their upcoming walk taking place on Saturday, May 7th at 8 am on the campus of Texas Southern University. This year, Houstonian and #LupusWarrior Kennet ra “K i k i ” Searcy, Miss Black USA is chairing the event.

Throughout 2022, the Lupus Foundation of America - Texas Gulf Coast Chapter will focus on supporting #LupusWarriors in our African American, Hispanic, and Asian communities with improved access to a high standard of care for their lupus, educational information to aid in a timely diagnosis of lupus, and health improvement opportunities across the region we serve. For more information, please visit www.lupus.org/texasgulfcoast.

Photo Credit (with her and her kids): Houston Photographer and Cinema

Q&A With Kiki Searcy: D-MARS: Kiki, please share a little about your journey and how you became connected with the Lupus Foundation of America - Texas Gulf Coast Chapter. KIKI: My involvement with the Lupus Foundation of America started in 2014 when I was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus, the most common form of lupus. That began my journey to learn more, become

Photo Credit (headshot): Beverli Alford Photography

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April 2022 | 17 HEALTH

more active in the community, and represent other Lupus Warriors with my voice. D-MARS: Talk about this year’s walk to help end lupus. KIKI: We are excited to announce that this year’s walk will take place on the campus of Texas Southern University (TSU) on Saturday, May 7th at 8 am. The Lupus Foundation of America – Texas Gulf Coast looks forward to showing the strength of our Lupus Warriors along the Tiger Walk of TSU. In addition, the top fundraising teams will enjoy an awards dinner the night before the walk, where we will also vote on the winners of the “This is Lupus” student scholarship competition within the TSU School of Communication. Dr. Rockell Brown, Associate Professor in the Radio, Television, and Film Department in the School of Communication at TSU is helping to spearhead this effort. Registration for the walk is free. To sign up and join a fundraising team, visit our website at www.lupus.org/texasgulfcoast. D-MARS: Kiki, share with us how representing this organization supports and encourages young people with lupus. KIKI: My greatest hope is that my involvement in the Lupus Foundation of America – Texas Gulf Coast will encourage young people with lupus to become aware and spur them to make changes within their community. Too often, within our culture, we are either misdiagnosed or not diagnosed because we don’t have regular physicals or checkups. As someone with lupus who is still relatively young, I’ve had several reality checks within my lifetime and can emphasize and sympathize with those recently diagnosed. I want to be a listening ear, a voice, and a face that represents all Lupus Warriors throughout their journeys. D-MARS: What do you find people are still unaware of when it comes to lupus? KIKI: Many people are unaware of what lupus is and that it is an autoimmune disease. It is not cancer but an autoimmune disease that affects everyday living. Of the nearly 1.5 million people living with lupus today, over 60% are people of color (Black, Brown, or Asian). Despite losing 2,500 Lupus Warriors each year, the disease remains one with few medical options and no cure and is difficult to diagnose. Most Lupus Warriors wait five to seven years to receive a diagnosis. Those statistics are different for people of color in that they have been shown to wait nearly 15 years for their diagnosis. The status quo is not acceptable, and we are working to improve diagnosis rates and support systems for people with lupus. Anyone can get it – men, women, and even children – across any race, color, or creed.

D-MARS: Is there anything else you want to share with our readers? KIKI: There is a purpose for myself and for my kids. We are here despite going through extremely traumatic experiences. Never stop fighting because you’ve been given a diagnosis. Your time has NOT run out! A diagnosis is just the beginning of the fight! You can join the fight against lupus, lifting yourself and others up as well!

7 Tips for Choosing a Primary Care Doctor By d-mars.com News Provider

ow well does your primary care provider know you? Do they see you at least once a year? Maybe during these last few years, when health has been at the forefront, you renewed your efforts to see this critical caretaker more regularly. A primary care provider is more than just a provider. Over time, he or she learns the nuances of your medical history, your reaction to medications, your health goals, your lifestyle, your treatment preferences, and whether a caregiver is supporting you in managing your health. That intimate knowledge can help make a big difference to your health. Studies show that people with primary care providers are more likely to get preventive services, including cancer screenings, and report significantly better overall health outcomes. Dr. Philip Painter, chief medical officer at UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement says, "As we get older, our needs change and our functional ability changes. It's nice to have someone who knows you guide you through the health care system as that happens." Painter provides the following seven tips to help you choose the right primary care provider.

Finally, check to see whether your provider is board-certified through the Certification Matters site, which the American Board of Medical Specialties maintains, to make sure they're keeping up with the latest developments in their fields.

4. Place a cold call Painter advises that patients call a potential provider's office for a first impression of the practice. "You can tell a lot by the phone etiquette of the office staff," Painter said.

5. Ask about logistics and virtual appointments Ask questions. How does the office handle prescription refills? How do they let you know about test results? Can you email your provider or schedule appointments online? Will the office call to remind you if you're overdue for an annual screening? You might also ask whether they offer same-day appointments and how long patients typically sit in the waiting room. Ask whether the provider conducts virtual appointments, and how easy they are to schedule.

6. Keep your needs in mind

1. Ask around The first step to finding a great provider: Talk to your family and friends about their provider. A recommendation from someone you trust is a good way to identify a highly-skilled, helpful physician. But remember: Every person is different. Just because a provider was perfect for your neighbor or best friend doesn't mean they are right for you.

2. Make sure you've got coverage Once you've identified possible candidates, check whether they work with your health plan. If you have traditional Medicare, call the provider's office and ask if they accept Medicare patients. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, call your insurance provider or check your plan's website to see if the provider is in network. Most plans charge more if you see a provider outside the network, so it's important to take this step before scheduling an appointment.

3. Do a quality check Chances are you wouldn't hire someone to make repairs in your home without doing a little research into the quality of their work. So why would you choose a provider without doing the same? If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, check with your insurance company to see if they have any information about the quality ratings of specific primary care providers in your network. You can also use the Physician Compare tool on Medicare.gov to see if your provider has participated in any activities that indicate they provide high-quality care.

Every person has unique health needs, and those needs change as people age. Ask your provider about their specialties or areas of interest. For example, a physician who specializes in sports medicine may not be the best choice if you are not a serious athlete. But if you have a chronic condition like diabetes, you may want to look for a provider with a special interest in diabetes care. Those are things to ask when you make that first call or do your research. And if you have multiple complex medical issues, you may benefit from seeing a geriatrician. Geriatricians specialize in the care of older patients.

7. Trust your gut Your primary care provider is going to be a problem-solver and an important advocate for your health. It's critical that you trust them and feel comfortable asking questions. After your first appointment, the American Academy of Family Physicians recommends you ask yourself the following: * Do you feel at ease with this provider? * Did the provider show an interest in getting to know you? * Did they answer all your questions? * Did they explain things in a way you understood?

If something seems off, trust your instincts and look for a new provider who is a better fit. You should be comfortable with whomever you choose.

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Source: BPT

18 | April 2022 HEALTH

Congrats to History Maker

Dr. Anjanette Wyatt,

CEO of Clinical Care Pharmacy, LLC!

She is the newly installed president of the American Pharmacists Association Board of Directors. She has made history in this position as the first African American female and the first Texas Southern University College of Pharmacy graduate to hold this position.

You can help prevent

CHILD ABUSE Be the voice for those who can’t speak up for themselves.

If you see or suspect ANY abusive behavior of a minor, call the Texas Family and Protective Services at 1-800-252-5400

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April 2022 | 19

Specializes in cosmetic dentistry with porcelain veneers, whitening and coming soon Botox and lip llers. www.sdshouston.com

Dr. Mikenah Joyy and Dr. Simone Ellis

Smile Design Studios, Family and Cosmetic Dentistry 9303 Hwy 6, Suite 300 Missouri City TX 77459

281-969-7388

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20 | April 2022

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April 2022 | 21

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22 | April 2022 EDUCATION & CAREER

Graduating This Spring? Reasons To Consider a Home Healthcare Career Why WhyHome HomeHealthcare? Healthcare?

By d-mars.com News Provider

hose graduating in the spring of 2022 and other job seekers should take note -- industry experts say that not only are home healthcare caregivers needed more now than ever before, but this industry offers many rewarding career paths. “A growing number of families and medical professionals are discovering that home healthcare is a great option -- and not just for seniors. Home healthcare can be used to treat medical needs across a full continuum of care,” says Jennifer Sheets, president, and chief executive officer of Interim Healthcare Inc., which is actively recruiting caregivers nationwide. According to Sheets, here are three of the top reasons home healthcare caregivers are in such high demand today: 1. It’s a safe alternative: The pandemic shifted the spotlight to home healthcare as a means to keep loved ones safe. What’s more, at-home caregivers are supporting hospital burnout by keeping acute care patients at home, allowing hospital staff to focus on the most critical patients. 2. The role of home caregivers has expanded: The scope of care and services that can be delivered at home has greatly expanded. There are more diverse care needs today, requiring a diverse set of caregivers to fill those needs, including ventilator care, speech therapy, palliative care, and more. 3. It can fill a necessary gap: The physical, mental, and emotional demands of caring for family members can be overwhelming, and with the healthcare worker shortage, family caregivers need additional help at home.

It is an employees’ market when it comes to working in the home healthcare industry and these positions are very desirable for a number of other reasons, especially for new graduates. Here are just a few: • With on-the-job training available, a helping career such as a home care aide is emotionally rewarding, and home healthcare provides that same opportunity to make a difference in other people’s lives, albeit in a less hectic, more personal environment. Even for current licensed medical professionals, 74% say they have considered a career shift to home healthcare at one point in their medical career, according to an Interim Healthcare study. The COVID-19 pandemic only intensified these considerations for professionals, many of whom in the same survey say home healthcare would be a way to reconnect with why they got into healthcare in the first place. • Clients depend on caregivers to manage their health and achieve the best results. They appreciate the help, support, care, and connection that comes with home care. Caregivers get one-on-one time with clients so they’re able to focus on the care of one individual at a time, and in many cases, they become part of the family. • The healthcare industry is changing rapidly, which means that home caregivers have continual opportunities to learn new professional skills based on their interests that will help them meet the needs of the industry. • Careers in-home healthcare are dynamic, interesting, and meaningful. They’re also flexible, giving those in the industry the choice of part-time or full-time work, as well as flexibility in location and availability.

including Interim HealthCare which has locally owned and operated franchises nationwide. To learn more about home care careers, visit ihcmadeforthis.com.

“At a time when families are struggling to find at-home care, you can answer that call for help,” says Sheets. Source: StatePoint

Major providers of home healthcare are actively hiring those with healthcare experience and those without, EDUCATION & CAREER

5 Ways To Get Kids Excited About Stem Learning By d-mars.com News Provider

he events of the past couple of years have shown how important scientists are to making the world a better and safer place. According to an independent research study, 91% of people believe that scientists are critical for our future well-being, and 89% say that science brings hope for the future.

to something your child already loves can help broaden their conception of what a future in STEM could entail. For example, kids who play sports may be interested in exercise science or sports medicine. Kids who love building toys may find engineering an exciting career path. Introducing kids to science kits, experiments, and other hands-on activities can help fast-track learning, make the subject more fun and engaging, and demonstrate firsthand how science fits into the activities and interests they already love.

Here are five ways to get kids, the next generation of scientists, excited about STEM. 1. Widen access. All kids should have access to STEM education opportunities, at school and outside of the classroom, whether it’s through an after-school program, science camp, competition, or at home. Fortunately, online learning tools have made it possible for more children to access such programs. Today, there is a wide variety of free resources available to families and students looking to expand STEM learning outside of the classroom. Websites like youngscientistlab.com and 3M.com/ ScienceAtHome feature fun and engaging projects for grades K-8, along with tools for parents and teachers to guide kids through the experiments. 2. Connect science to something your child already loves. We often think of science in a silo, but the application of science is all around us. Connecting science

3. Promote gender equity in STEM education. Gender should never affect a child’s goal to pursue STEM. Yet, young girls often feel limited in their ability to excel in STEM-related activities due to the gender gap in the sciences and a lack of relatable representation. We can help shift antiquated thinking that science is not for girls by instilling confidence in them to challenge

these stereotypes and by exposing them to the valuable work of women inventors, doctors, mathematicians, and scientists, so they can start to see themselves in these positions. Sign them up for extracurriculars like math team and coding camp, visit math and science museums together, and talk about the contributions of and need for girls and women to solve real-world challenges. 4. Diversify STEM. Science is not tied to one gender, race, ethnicity, or nationality. Young kids in minority groups need to understand that they can be involved in STEM careers so that our future workforces reflect our diverse societies. Shaking up the way we approach science and technology could be one way to help do this. Without a real-world connection, it’s too easy for kids to feel lost or like “this” is not for them. If we expose kids to different career landscapes in ways they can connect to, they can better understand the importance of learning these subjects, build self-awareness around their unique attributes, and open them up to envision themselves in future STEM careers. 5. Bring science to life. Hands-on projects help bring science to life. Look for science competitions and programs that allow young minds to explore and develop real-world experiences. As we confront 21st-century challenges like climate change and community health crises, scientists, engineers, and doctors will be the heroes on the frontlines. For a brighter future for everybody, give your child the resources and encouragement needed to pursue STEM.

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Source: StatePoint

April 2022 | 23 EDUCATION & CAREER

Mostyn Law & 1800 truck wreck Award $15,000 To Heartbeat Of The Campus Winners

Local high school, college students honored for their achievements at special reception By d-mars.com News Provider

ostyn Law’s HeartBEAT of the Campus Awards has recognized fifteen Houston-area students for their successes on campus and in the community, providing each with a $1,000 check in support of their further studies. The students were feted at a special reception, hosted by Mostyn Law co-founder Amber Mostyn in the law firm’s Galleria-area offices. As their families, friends, and teachers looked on, Ms. Mostyn and Ashlee Young, midday host on Houston’s 93.7 FM The Beat (KQBTFM), presented each student with a check for $1,000.

“Reading the nominations and learning about the accomplishments of these students was extremely inspirational and heartwarming for me and my team, “says Mostyn. “But the real thrill was actually meeting them and hearing their hopes and dreams in their own words.” Through an on-air campaign on 93.7 The Beat, the law firm solicited nominations from listeners before a Mostyn Law review committee made the final selections.

Photo Source: Noisemaker Communications Photo Caption: Mostyn Law’s HeartBEAT of the Campus Awards has recognized fifteen Houston-area students for their successes on campus and in the community.

Then, for fifteen days in March, one winner per day enjoyed the spotlight during an on-air salute from Ashlee during her show. “In the last 12 months, Mostyn Law has had the privilege of rewarding moms, dads, educators, and first responders,” observes Mostyn. “This campaign was unique in that it connected us with young students (and some not so you!) at an important, first stage of their lives and careers. We wanted to recognize what they’ve achieved so far and help them envision their future success. There might even be some future lawyers in this group! Definitely some entrepreneurs. And I think they were fascinated to hear from each other as well.”

Mostyn Law’s HeartBEAT of the Campus winners are currently enrolled or will be pursuing studies, at Cy Ranch High School, Friendswood High School, Hendrix College, Houston Gateway Academy, Kinder High School for Performing and Visual Arts, Klein Forest High School, Lone Star College, Thurgood Marshall High School, Morehouse College, Prairie View A&M University, Texas Southern University, Universal Technical Institute, the University of Houston, the University of Houston-Clear Lake, the University of Texas, the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, and Jack Yates High School.

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Source: Noisemaker Communications

24 | April 2022 EDUCATION & CAREER

EDUCATION & CAREER

TSU, Southwest Airlines Announced Major Partnership

Equal Pay: How Women Can Benefit From a Career in Construction By d-mars.com News Provider

he disruptions of the pandemic led to not only job losses but also the Great Resignation, with many Americans reevaluating their careers and searching for better opportunities. While some areas are recovering, studies from the Pew Research Center, the National Bureau of Economic Research, and others suggest that more women have lost their jobs overall, largely due to the higher percentages of women employed in the leisure and hospitality sector, retail, education and health services - which all took a big hit during the pandemic. If you're one of the many American women seeking a career pivot, you should consider the construction industry. "Women join the construction industry because they see a good career that will keep them challenged and support their families," said Doreen Bartoldus, president of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). "We need more women in the field, and our organization develops materials designed to get kids excited about construction. We have female-specific programs for high school girls, and we see that changing attitudes."

Here are the top three reasons women should consider a career in construction: 1. Pay parity is better in the construction industry Construction has one of the lowest gender pay gaps in the nation. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. women earn an average of 81.1% of men's earnings, but in construction fare much better - making over $0.94 for every $1 that men make. And the best news? Demand in this field shows no sign of stopping. "Women should join this industry because it's everlasting. There will always be new homes to build and remodel," said Maggie Hardy Knox, president of 84 Lumber. "We've truly seen this over the last year. The career opportunities are endless." 2. Careers for people from all backgrounds Opportunities in construction offer variety in levels of training, experience, and education. Whether you're just out of high school, have a trade certification, vocational/ technical or associate degree, or four-year college degree, there are available positions that not only pay well but are challenging and fulfilling. Many positions can be learned on the job, and a number of companies offer trainee programs for those seeking experience. "The basic requirement to make it in the field is to

genuinely care for customers and associates. And like anything else in life, a great work ethic can make you super successful," observed Hardy Knox. "If you demonstrate those traits, our company will train you on everything else." 3. Variety of roles Another reason to consider the construction industry is the sheer variety of positions, involving a vast array of skill sets. "The industry is broad enough where you can pick many career paths. For example, we have entry-level management trainee positions that touch all parts of our business," Hardy Knox added. "Our team headquarters offers opportunities from purchasing to accounting and more. We also have tremendous opportunities within our installed sales division, and our on-site project managers work to help relieve residential building contractors and commercial builders from everyday problems associated with coordination of materials and labor." Here are examples of positions in construction-related areas to consider:

By d-mars.com News Provider

fficials from Southwest Airlines visited Texas Southern University on Thursday, March 31, 2022, to announce TSU as the first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) to join the airline’s First Officer recruitment program – Destination 225°. (On a compass, 225° is the southwest directional heading.) The partnership will create a pathway for graduates of TSU’s Aviation Science and Technology program, which includes a Professional Pilot concentration, by leading aspiring Black and other minority pilots to Southwest Airlines.

Special Guests Included: From Southwest Airlines: • Captain Lee Kinnebrew IV, Southwest Airlines Vice President of Flight Operations • Captain Dave Retnam, Senior Manager of Flight Operations • Captain Cory Petit, Manager Pilot Recruitment and Onboarding • Captain Brad Monda, Manager of Pilot Pathway Program From TSU: • Dr. Lesia Crumpton-Young, President • Dr. Lillian Poats, Acting Provost • Dr. Aladdin Sleem, Interim Dean • Dr. Yi Qi, Chair of the Transportation Studies department • Dr. Terence Fontaine, Director of Aviation • Paul Griffin, TSU Aviation Science/Professional Pilot student

* Front line construction work * Trades such as electrician, plumber, welder, brick mason, glazier, crane operator, carpenter, pipefitter * Cost estimator, bookkeeper * Safety manager * Office worker/administrative * Sales/marketing * Construction surveyor, construction inspector * General contractor * Project manager * Civil engineer, architect * Executive, business owner

Today's labor shortage also means companies are striving to boost recruitment from a more diverse labor pool, resulting in the industry being much more welcoming to hiring women than ever before. "One of the best ways for construction companies to recruit women is to make women in construction more visible," said Kristi Allen, owner of WoodCastle Homes and contractor behind The House that SHE Built, a home built by Utah Professional Women in Building with the help of female volunteers from across the country. "The more we see women succeeding, the more likely it is other women will view the construction industry as a viable option for their careers." To explore opportunities in construction, visit NAWIC.org or 84Lumber.com. Source: BPT

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For more information, please visit TSU.edu. Source: Texas Southern University

April 2022 | 25

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26 | April 2022 EDUCATION & CAREER

Photo Credit: Texas Southern University

Houston Texans And Texas Southern University Announce Partnership

Two-year partnership will provide unique opportunities for TSU student-athletes, faculty, and staff By d-mars.com News Provider

Recently, the Houston Texans and Texas Southern University announced a two-year partnership that will positively impact the Houston community by creating opportunities for student-athletes both on the field and in the classroom. The partnership was announced at a reception honoring Texans Head Coach Lovie Smith at the TSU Library Learning Center. "We are happy to honor Coach Lovie Smith for his historic elevation to head coach, and for his contributions to the entire Houston community,” TSU Board of Regents Chairman Albert Myres said. “Coach Smith embodies leadership qualities that we work to demonstrate daily. We appreciate all that he does and all that he is to our community.”

“The Houston Texans are proud to partner with TSU to support the university’s student-athletes, coaches, and staff,” Houston Texans Chair and Chief Executive Officer Cal McNair said. “It is our hope that this partnership will enrich the next generation’s love of the game of football while providing unique opportunities to our community’s future leaders.”

• Support football field house improvements that will assist with recruiting top-tier student-athletes to TSU • Award scholarships to five female studentathletes each year • Create opportunities and programming that will provide access to professional development, internships, and mentoring for TSU students, faculty, staff, and athletics leadership

The partnership will focus on three core initiatives including improving athletic facilities, funding scholarship opportunities for female student-athletes, and student, faculty, and staff engagement. Over the next two years, the Texans will: • Donate the team’s artificial playing surface from NRG Stadium

“This partnership with the Texans will assist in transforming the lives of our TSU students. This investment affords our scholar-athletes additional resources to ensure their success on and off the field,” Dr. Lesia L. CrumptonYoung, President of Texas Southern University said. “Given the facilities enhancements, the professional development, internships, and scholarships, our young scholars will exhibit exemplary performance!” Texas Southern University is a student-centered comprehensive doctoral university committed to ensuring equality, offering innovative programs that are responsive to its urban setting, and transforming diverse students into lifelong learners, engaged citizens, and creative leaders in their local, national, and global communities.

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Source: Texas Southern University

April 2022 | 27

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28 | April 2022 FINANCE

Prepare your kids for wealth! By James Marshall Contributing Writer

e talk a lot about generational wealth and leaving a legacy of financial stability. But what good is it to leave money or wealth to your children if they have little or no idea how to manage it! Teaching your children to respect money is just as important as teaching them to respect their elders. Constantly encouraging them, and giving them the resources to complete their education goes hand in hand with their ability to properly manage their finances. It is important to instill in them a family tradition of wealth building and wealth transfer. It should not be happenstance or an after thought. It should be deliberate and structured.

So let’s talk about how to prepare your kids for wealth I believe you should start teaching your kids about money management as soon as they are old enough to ask you for money. And that lesson should always start with the basic tenet: “A penny saved, is a penny earned” This phrase means that it is as useful to save money that you already have, as it is to earn more. The phrase “a penny saved is a penny earned” comes from Benjamin Franklin’s series of books, Poor Richard’s Almanack. With advice, helpful hints and puzzles. These books are still relevant today! To respect and value that penny they have saved, it has to first be earned! Start the lesson of money management by first teaching your children the lesson of work! If you don’t talk to your kids about money, someone else will. And it might me the Kardasians! Try to avoid lecturing, and don’t confuse financial literacy with how much wealth your family has or does not have. Financial literacy is knowing the value of money and how to keep and grow it. Skipping the financial literacy will be like

learning to drive a car without learning the difference between the gas pedal and the brake, and when and when not to use them!

It’s not glamourous, but teach your children about the enormous impact of compounded interest and the amazing generational wealth building power of life insurance. Clearly explain to them the concept of the four cornerstones of wealth: 1) Budgeting and cash reserves 2) Protection 3) Equity management 4) Investment income management Make resources available to your children to help them understand the concept of money, savings and investing. There are a lot of free resources available to help you with this education: • coolkids.org • Dallasfed.org • jumpstart.org And of course you can check out my financial cartoon “Investing with Larry Living Large” on my YouTube channel “James Marshall, Financial Educator.” What we are trying to accomplish with this video is to give young people a basic understanding of how capitalism works. How wealth is built through the ownership of companies on the stock exchanges. As well as how companies get the capital (or money) they need to grow. When you understand the process it’s easier to become a part of it. Manage the process, control your money and build wealth! The bottom line is don’t leave it to chance. And don’t leave it to others. Start teaching your children about responsible money management now!

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April 2022 | 29 FINANCE

Clear Definitions of Financial Industry Terms Empower People To Move Beyond Debt By d-mars.com News Provider

f you're dealing with personal and unsecured debt, like credit cards or medical bills, navigating financial terms can be confusing. The terms describing the entire debt settlement industry are used interchangeably, misleading the consumer. It can be challenging to find the right solution for you if you can't fully understand your options. Last year, Nerdwallet released a study on the "2021 American Household Credit Card Debt." The average credit card debt per household is $6,006, down 13.8%. Despite that, one in five Americans experienced higher prices and lower wages, so they relied heavily on credit cards to pay for necessities during the pandemic. This kind of debt has affected millions of Americans emotionally and physically. Remember, debt is something you have, not who you are, and you have options. One way to erode the stress connected to debt begins with understanding the diverse types of aid available. Being clear about those terms is critical for finding the right fit from a reputable financial management organization to restore your peace of mind.

The debt settlement industry got its name because it offered clients assistance to settle personal debt and alleviate their stress. A synonym that has been used is "debt resolution" because that is the goal - creating a resolution to stressful personal finance challenges. Financial organizations such as banks, credit counseling firms, and even bankruptcy attorneys have used three separate terms interchangeably within the debt settlement industry. However, they mean different things. It's essential to understand the differences and what they mean to take the proper steps for your specific situation.

1. Debt management Consider debt management if you can't repay your debt or aren't skilled at personal finance activities like balancing a checkbook. Most people worry about damaging their credit by their inability to pay bills on time, so they call a credit counselor for help. After hearing the situation, if appropriate, the counselor will typically ask a client to consider enrolling in a debt management plan (DMP). Based on an initial conversation, the debt management counselor designs a detailed plan to help you create and adhere to a budget while learning necessary money management skills. Additionally, the DMP company may

consolidation loan due to poor credit? You likely feel stuck, but debt resolution may be an option you haven't considered.

3. Debt resolution

call your creditors and ask for a reduced interest rate or waive specific fees. Your requests may not be approved. If that happens to you, another possibility is considering debt consolidation.

2. Debt consolidation Out-of-control debt can feel like a downward spiral that pulls you down with it. The cyclone involves multiple creditors, several payments, and immense stress. A debt consolidation loan becomes a possibility because it's easier to pay one general payment than several smaller ones. If you have a strong enough credit score, you can visit online lenders or a few storefronts to get approved for a debt consolidation loan. That will roll all your bills together and make up an average - and often lower - interest rate. The loan types can vary, including a home equity loan, a 401(k) loan, a balance-transfer credit card, or an actual debt consolidation loan. What if you don't qualify for a debt

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Debt resolution helps cut your total debt owed, while a debt consolidation loan helps minimize the total number of creditors you owe. Every day, reputable debt resolution organizations operate in full compliance with the Federal Trade Organization's Telemarketing Sales Rule throughout the process. It is essential to know that you should never have to pay any "resolution" fees until you've made at least one payment toward your settlement with a creditor. The company works on your behalf throughout the process as you make deposits into a private trust or escrow account used only to pay off debts enrolled in the program. Most importantly, debt resolution is a bankruptcy alternative. You do not have to file bankruptcy if you can't get a loan. Debt resolution allows you the right to pay back what you owe at a negotiated rate you can afford. It's best to do your research to understand the facts and choose the proper remedy. For more information about managing and resolving your debt, visit BeyondFinance.com. Source: BPT

30 | April 2022 REAL ESTATE

Are You Being Treated Fairly as a Prospective Buyer or Renter? By Marla Lewis President of the Houston Black Real Estate Association

pril is National Fair Housing Month. While the real estate industry, like so many other businesses across the country, suffered the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, we cannot turn our backs on history and the important place to which it has led us. Fifty-four years ago this month, April 11, 1968—just seven days after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.—President Lyndon Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act of 1968 into law. The Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental, and financing of housing based on race, color, religion, national origin, gender, family status, or disability, is part of that law. I wish I could tell you that we no longer need laws to protect homebuyers and renters from discrimination. Unfortunately, we are not there yet. How widespread is housing discrimination in the 21st century? Fair housing organizations receive close to 30,000 complaints each year, according to the National Fair Housing Alliance (NFHA), a coalition of privately run fair housing groups. Yet testing suggests there are

many more instances of discrimination—the NFHA estimates about 3.7 million annually. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has conducted thousands of tests in recent years. HUD uses housing organizations that send testers out to view for-sale and rental properties as a means of determining whether landlords, lenders, agents, and others in the real estate community treat protected classes unfavorably and differently.

Housingdiscrimination discriminationtakes takesmany manyforms, forms,but Housing but here few real-world scenarios: here are aare fewareal-world scenarios: · An owner or landlord falsely tells you that his property or unit is unavailable because of your religion; · An agent only shows you homes in one neighborhood because that area has a high concentration of residents of your race; · A landlord asks you for a higher deposit on a rental unit than other tenants because you have kids; · A landlord refuses to accommodate your need as a disabled tenant, such as allowing a service animal or installing grab-bars in bathrooms.

When people think about fair housing violations, they usually conjure up images of a slammed door or a restrictive advertisement. But violations of the Fair Housing Act are not only about a living situation or steering allegations. There are problems in the lending industry, as well. Because the lending process is so complex, it’s difficult to identify discrimination with any consistency. You may know that the 1.5 million members of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB), National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP), Asian American Real Estate Association (AAREA), and other real estate associations pledge to adhere to a strict Code of Ethics that holds them to higher professional standards than what state and federal law require. However, as national awareness of racial inequalities

grew following the George Floyd murder, the Code of Ethics was amended to ban harassing speech, hate speech, epithets, or slurs based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity by its members. Under the new policy, real estate agents who insult, threaten or harass people based on race, sex, or other legally protected characteristics can be investigated, fined, or expelled. NAREB was formed in 1947, and our local chapter, the Houston Black Real Estate Association (HBREA) formed shortly after, in 1949, dedicated to “Democracy in Housing,” and helped lead the fight for the “Fair Housing Laws of 1968” and continuing improvements. Violations of fair housing laws are not always obvious or easy to detect. After all, unless victims are somehow able to compare their experience to someone else’s, they likely have no reason to suspect any prejudice ever occurred. Fair housing laws do have teeth, however. So, if you believe you’ve been the victim of housing discrimination, you can submit a formal complaint with HUD (www.HUD. gov) and any local private housing enforcement agency. Right now, we are all doing our part to put the pandemic behind us. But it is critical in the meantime that we each also do our part to make sure that home buyers and renters everywhere are treated fairly, equally, and with dignity. Ask questions if something didn’t “feel right” about the service and the direction your transaction is going. HBREA is here to find answers to community concerns, questions, and situations affecting real estate-related activities. For more information about Texas real estate, please visit HAR.com. And for more information on the Houston Black Real Estate Association, please visit hbreahouston.org.

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Source: Houston Association of Realtors —distributed by the Houston Association of Realtors

April 2022 | 31

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Business Journal 176

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Are You Being Treated Fairly as a Prospective Buyer or Renter?

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