Business Journal 185

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PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

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.

It’s not unusual for many people to set aside resolutions, commitments, or some description as to what they want to do differently in the new year. However, how well do we keep those visions? Do we fall off and forget, or do we keep going with the discipline we planned for?

For this month’s cover story, d-mars. com decided to highlight his newfound commitments and the discovery of those visions needed for your business.

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With any company comes about change and a season that select people are needed for a particular reason. While that comes with its own tests, each climate produces reflective moments producing new results.

Get to know why d-mars.com has employed motivational tools to reignite why change is good.

It may not take a brand-new year to implement change. However, the practice of discipline and consistency by one’s own choices should always be a priority. If you fall off, the journey is still waiting for your interest and intentions.

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.

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Introducing Kim Roxie - the Historic Houston Brand Making Its Debut On Home Shopping Network

Dr. Hinojosa named 2022 Superintendent to Watch by National School Public Relations Association

Truist & Truist Foundation Donates $4.5M to Strengthen Diverse Small Business in Texas

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• Business Connection

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• Public Relations • Social Media • Advertising • Writing • Promotional Marketing

“You can get excited about the future. The past won’t mind.”

Introducing Kim Roxie – the Historic Houston Brand Making Its Debut On Home Shopping Network

By d-mars.com News Provider

im Roxie, founder of LAMIK Beauty, has always been passionate about revealing the inner beauty in everyone.

Through founding a successful business that takes an empowering approach to beauty, she has made it her mission to encourage self-love and natural confidence within her customers. Hear Kim’s story of how she built her business rooted in revealing true beauty.

“That’s when I realized that I had fallen in love with not just makeup, but making people feel good about themselves. I was good at my job.” ~ Kim Roxie, 2022

moments of taboo, debates and a metric of acceptance. Roxie saw her surroundings in the early stages of the beauty industry and in the world around her. She sought change to not allow select narratives dictate her own career interests,

“I grew up in Houston, and as a child, I was surrounded by a culture in which colorism was evident. Attitudes regarding beauty in music, pop culture, and just around where I grew up, were very much skewed towards the idea that lighter skin was just prettier.”

The Development Of LAMIK’s ‘Love and Makeup in Kindness’

The businesswoman admits that she wasn’t necessarily moved by what “makeup allowed” for her to do, but because of the conversations she got to have helping others tap into their beauty. In addition to those she was helping through dialogue while perfecting the craft, Roxie developed her own influences of fortitude including her mother’s earthly departure, seeing women unable to find their foundation match with major brands and even her own personal journey.

After watching her own success in Atlanta, the idea of opening her own makeup counter in Houston became a natural go-to. Afterall, Roxie had gotten a glimpse of her efforts and business savvy made a difference in the Black Hollywood capital of the world. Once she made her way back to H-Town, it was her mother who gave that seed creating roots in LAMSIK’s existence.

With a $500 offering from her mother prior to passing, the LAMIK CEO admitted that while dealing with her grievance period, she was battling low-self-esteem. To pull herself up, Roxie had placed her doubts on the backburner,

“My mother believed in herself like no other. She would put on a full face of makeup to go to work at the post office. When I thought about her and the confidence that she possessed, I knew I could get over my fears about the process and make my own cosmetics line.”

She added, “The legacy of my mother is why it was important for me to have a clean beauty line in particular. When she died of breast cancer, I started looking into beauty products and started seeing so many chemicals and other ingredients that were linked to health issues.”

LAMIK became a brick-and-mortar makeup shop in Houston when Roxie had turned 21. She provided women of color an all-natural paraben free makeup option for their day-to-day makeup routine.

The growing adult became the youngest African American woman to have her products carried in Macy’s after showcasing 14 years of business stability to satisfactory results.

Dr. Hinojosa named 2022 Superintendent to Watch by National School Public Relations Association

By d-mars.com News Provider

LAMIK, (Love and Makeup in Kindness), is exactly what Houston native Roxie achieved through the beauty brand.

On Dec. 28, the entrepreneur will see the company’s debut on the Home Shopping Network. Not bad for the Clark Atlanta University graduate who discovered her God-given ability at a mall makeup counter,

“When I applied for jobs, the only place that called me back was a makeup counter. I had never done makeup before, but they were my only offer, so I had to show up. This is really where I got my first experience in the beauty industry.”

It’s not impossible to encounter colorism in the country especially in particular areas such as the south where lighter skin still maintains its

With added purpose through circumstances, Roxie used her own bouts with Alopecia as a catalyst for service expansion,

“I started LAMIK because I suffered from Alopecia, and I couldn’t find anything on the market that catered to my needs. My clients are women like me who share similar stories of not feeling seen by the cosmetics industry.”

She added,

“This is a win for not just me but for every other small black owned business, because it tells major corporations and retailers that we have buying power.”

Source: Ariel Baker, Popsugar Contributor & d-mars.com

“I am extremely honored to receive this recognition, especially as it relates to engaging with our stakeholders,” Hinojosa said.

“One of the key priorities of Spring ISD’s Strategic Plan is Engagement, and it’s vitally important that we provide our parents, students and staff with a sense of belonging in our district – so that we can all work together to ensure excellent and equitable outcomes for all students.”

While valuing newer communications technologies, such as the district’s Let’s Talk online communication platform, Dr. Hinojosa was also recognized for emphasizing the value of face-to-face engagement with the community, regularly visiting schools and other district facilities and taking the time to personally talk with teachers, support staff, students, parents, local business partners and faith leaders. In addition, she was noted for engaging in regular in-person gatherings with a variety of stakeholder groups and advisory councils, including parent and student advisory councils.

“This year’s honorees understand just how important effective communication is in building trust and relationships with families, employees, students and community members in their districts,” said NSPRA Executive Director Barbara M. Hunter, APR. “These emerging leaders have proven to be dedicated champions of innovative communication efforts to advance their district’s success.”

NSPRA had a record number of nominations this year—nearly 60—and many exceptional candidates, making the selection process very competitive. Since the 2015-16 school year, NSPRA has recognized 127 school district leaders as Superintendents to Watch. Honorees must have fewer than five years of experience as a superintendent and must demonstrate dynamic, fastpaced leadership with strong communication at its core.

As the leader in school communication, NSPRA serves more than 2,500 members who work primarily as communication directors in public school districts and education organizations throughout the United States and Canada.

Visit www.nspra.org/ superintendents-watch to learn more about this award.

Source:

Kristen Cobb, Spring ISD Communications

Dr. Lupita Hinojosa

K Spring ISD Superintendent Dr. Lupita Hinojosa has been selected as a 2022 Superintendent to Watch by the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA). Hinojosa joins just 24 other superintendents nationwide who were selected for the honor in recognition of their innovative and effective use of technology to engage and inform the school community, and to expand two-way communication and outreach efforts.

Kim Roxie

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Truist & Truist Foundation Donates $4.5M to Strengthen Diverse Small Businesses in Texas

By d-mars.com News Provider

Truist Foundation today announced a $3.5 million grant to PeopleFund, a Texas-based Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and nonprofit 501(c)(3) that strives to create economic opportunity and financial stability for underserved people by providing access to capital, education and other resources to build healthy small businesses.

Truist Foundation’s grant provides long-term

sustainability for PeopleFund’s Black, Indigenous, Person of Color (BIPOC) Small Business Accelerator, a program that provides business owners the capital, resources and network to start and grow their businesses and attain economic mobility. The accelerator was piloted in 2021 with a $100,000 grant from Truist Foundation and a $3 million low-interest loan from Truist Community Capital. These seed investments acted as catalysts for additional support.

Truist Chairman and CEO Bill Rogers, Truist Foundation President Lynette Bell and Truist Regional President Bill Toomey joined PeopleFund President and CEO Gustavo Lasala for the grant announcement at East End Maker Hub today.

“The COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately devastated underserved Black and racially diverse small business owners. We are honored to support PeopleFund, an organization working to provide funding and unique services for diverse small business owners across Texas,” said Lynette Bell, president of Truist Foundation. “PeopleFund shares our belief that small businesses are the key to a healthy economy and that every person should have equitable access to the tools they need to become a successful entrepreneur with financial stability.”

These Texas-based grants are a part of Truist and Truist Foundation’s $120 million joint commitment to strengthening and supporting small businesses nationwide, with a focus on Black-, Latine- and womenowned businesses. By generating greater equity for small business owners, PeopleFund can continue to create jobs, economic opportunity and generational wealth in communities across Texas where these small businesses operate.

“PeopleFund’s BIPOC Small Business Accelerator

could not have been possible without the leading support of Truist. This program boldly brought together institutions and individuals across Texas and beyond to lift barriers that impede underserved people of color attain financial freedom through entrepreneurship,” said Gustavo Lasala, President and CEO of PeopleFund. He continued,

Truist’s purpose of inspiring and building better communities in the Houston area and the state is further exemplified by two additional community grants announced today. Truist Foundation contributed $500,000 to SERJobs and, together with Truist Charitable Fund and Truist’s Community Reinvestment Act department, donated $500,000 to Junior Achievement.

These grants will fund programs that allow the organizations to strengthen small businesses and build career pathways to economic mobility through education, training, employment and empowerment services for underserved communities in Texas.

Introducing Latoya Rowell: Comerica Bank’s New Community Affairs Manager

By d-mars.com News Provider

Looks like Comerica Bank will be adding a new face to a pivotal role. LaToya Rowell has been appointed as the National Community Affairs Manager.

Her responsibility will have her overlooking the bank’s national volunteer program while managing and upholding community initiatives and partnerships with the external affairs market team and social impact manager.

Other areas requiring her expertise are developing and maintaining relationships with key community stakeholders and strengthening relationships with minority groups including Asian Pacific Islander and Middle Easter communities for national business development.

Rowell will be reporting on all exchanges and future successes with Chief Community Officer, Irvin Ashford, Jr.

The CCO said he values and trusts her skillset and the integrity it brings, “LaToya’s contributions to Comerica are invaluable,” Ashford said. “She has elevated the bank’s presence and impact in the diverse communities we serve through her oversight of our 19 business resource groups and financial education volunteer program. Her proven record of success has paved

LaToya Rowell

the way for this new opportunity.”

After joining the financial-based company in 2006, the Texas resident’s positioning included coordinating business affairs, assisting with corporate budgeting, office contributions and community affairs coordinator for Comerica’s business outreach efforts.

Outside of a growing list of accolades for her community involvement, Atlanta-based publication Rolling Out chose Rowell as an honoree for “Sisters With Superpowers” celebrating women in business, the arts, fashion and entrepreneurship in November.

She received The Great Volunteer Connector award in October for her connecting Comerica colleagues with civic and volunteer opportunities in Dallas at nonprofit adult education programs.

Other rewarding moments such as leading a campaign for the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship South Region earning Comerica a 2022 Corporate Volunteer of the Year award.

While the list goes on, Rowell found her earlier roots at the University of North Texas reap a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Science Degree. She also obtained a Volunteer and Community Resource Management certificate.

During her time at the Art Institute of Dallas, the Comerica business liaison obtained a degree in Multimedia Design with a concentration on multimedia production form.

Source: Comerica Bank

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“We are deeply grateful and proud of Truist’s partnership. This grant will help this program scale and continue making a positive difference in underserved communities for years to come.”

Source:

Truist Financial Corporation, per PR Newswire

Historic Moment for Pastor Ogletree and Family as His Son Is Inaugurated at First Metropolitan Church

By d-mars.com News Provider

e Are Here! It is with great pleasure I proudly announce the installation of my first-born son, Pastor Johnny D. Ogletree, III, to succeed me as Senior Pastor of First Metropolitan Church.

2023 is the year of transition at our place of worship. After 36 years of pastoring this exciting vibrant ministry in NW Houston, I’m looking forward to what my son provides to the existing and growing flock. In November 2021, I was consecrated as Bishop/Overseer of First Metropolitan.

Pastor Johnny has served faithfully over twenty years in ministry under my leadership since graduating with a Master of Divinity from Virginia Union University. His performative works have included the Youth Pastor followed by the Elder and Lead Pastor during 2021.Alongside his wife, Dr. Quinita Ogletree, they have welcomed five healthy and beautiful daughters.

His pastoral inauguration will take place Friday, Jan. 20 at 7 p.m. at the church campus at 8870 W. Sam Houston Parkway N, Houston, TX 77040.

Kindly join me in welcoming my son as I honor him with a platitude of succession and gratefulness.

Bishop John D. Ogletree, Jr.

EDUCATION & CAREER

New Bill

Teacher

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior

ongresswoman Frederica S. Wilson

introduced the American Teacher Act to incentivize states to increase the minimum K-12 teacher salary to $60,000 and adjust inflation.

Wilson, the chair of the Higher Education and Workforce Investment Subcommittee, said the financial incentive supports ongoing state efforts to provide competitive wages for teachers and address the national teacher shortage.

“Teachers deserve a raise. Unfortunately, our nation’s teachers have been underpaid, overworked, and deprived of resources for too long,” Wilson stated.

“That’s why I’m filing the American Teacher Act, to give our nation’s teachers the raise they have earned and deserve.”

Wilson called teachers the backbone of America’s education system and economy.

She noted that they play a foundational role in the development of children.

“For seven hours a day, they help shape and inspire young minds as well as nurture students academically and socially,” Wilson said.

“As the COVID-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill, teachers continued to play a critical role in our recovery, underscoring their indispensability.”

The nonprofit Teacher Salary Project helped Wilson draft the bill, which they said responds to a national teacher shortage and low professional morale.

The bill creates a four-year federal grant program

to increase teachers’ annual salaries to a minimum of $60,000 nationwide.

Additionally, it would create a four-year federal grant available to states and local educational agencies to guarantee the $60,000 minimum wage.

The bill wouldn’t reduce salaries for those already making more than $60,000 and wouldn’t replace existing federal, state, or local funds used toward teacher pay.

Earlier this year, EducationWeek estimated that more than 36,500 teacher vacancies exist in the United States.

They noted that uncredentialed teachers filled more than 163,500 positions. Meanwhile, the Teacher Salary Project pointed out that 74% of teachers don’t believe they receive fair pay.

“How do we get (teacher pay increases) to happen when people in the position to make change are so scared or intimidated by the price tag and the controversial topics associated with higher pay, like performance-based pay and increases in taxes?” Ellen Sherratt, board president of the Teacher Salary Project, told Education NC.

Wilson said teacher shortages count among the most pressing threats to education access today, with districts across the country forced to radically adjust school offerings to respond to turnover and prolonged vacancies.

“While teachers have never received the wages and respect commensurate

with the work, they do to help all children reach their promise and potential, the culture wars and stagnant wages of the last few years have made this worse,” stated Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers.

“Recruiting and retaining a diverse teaching force has become increasingly difficult—indeed, most parents say they wouldn’t want their kids to choose teaching as a career,” Weingarten remarked.

Weingarten continued:

“Rep. Frederica Wilson’s bill directly addresses these challenges by providing states with federal funding to incentivize school districts to create a minimum salary of $60,000 for teachers.

“It also funds a national campaign highlighting the value of the teaching profession and encouraging young people to become teachers, using many of the recommendations in the AFT’s Teacher and School Staff Shortage Task Force report “Here Today, Gone Tomorrow?” for recruiting the best candidates into teaching, including increasing compensation.

“This bill says put your money where your mouth is. We thank Rep. Wilson for her bold legislation addressing the low starting salaries that have plagued the teaching profession for generations, and we are proud to support this legislation.”

Source:

National Newspaper Publishers Association

(D-Fla.)

Honoring Longtime d-mars.com Contributor Noel Andrew Pinnock

By d-mars.com News Provider

Noel Andrew Pinnock was more than just my beloved twin brother. He was a man of God, his momma’s reason (son), a husband, a father, a brother, a nephew, an uncle, a cousin, a mentor, a minister, a leader, a Christian counselor, a certified public manager, a trailblazer, a motivational speaker, an innovator, a community activist, an author, a pioneer, a friend, a fixer, and more importantly; he was God’s SERVANT!

He helped, guided, counseled, and stood in the gap for all types of people: elected officials, corporate officers, public servants, our military, first responders: peace officers, fire fighters, paramedics, doctors, nurses, judges, lawyers, upper class, middle class, lower class, church leaders, the church, teens, youth, adults, seniors, the homeless, the addicted, thugs, gangsters, gang leaders, drug dealers, prison inmates, and all kinds of outcasts.

He selflessly fostered and championed Jesus’ principle of leaving the ninety-nine only to go back to save the one. There is nothing more rewarding in life than to find yourself by selflessly losing yourself in service to others. Noel was a compass to thousands of individuals, both young and seasoned, who leveraged his guidance and purpose-driven skills to advance both their careers and lives forward.

Whether in the classroom as a former middle school teacher, graduate school professor, or community organizer, Noel found his life’s mission steeped in these spaces as a catalyst and a broker for others.

He was a published author and recognized expert with over 25 years of experience in transforming underperforming companies into positions of prosperity and optimum value.

Cementing The Core Of Education

My brother specialized in strategic, operational, and tactical services. As a nationally certified public manager, he was responsible for overseeing many large-scale organizational transformations.

After earning his Master of Public Administration from Texas Southern University, as one of the first cohorts in the school of Public Affairs, he led him to a path of servitude.

For over 18 years, Noel dedicated his time to skillset to scholars, families, and communities in the Houston Independent School District.

This led to him becoming the first-ever African American and the youngest Chief Executive Learning Officer, overseeing the learning and development stock of over 12% employees.

In 2014, Noel was tapped to lead former President Barack Obama’s national initiative, which quickly became a local movement in the City of Houston. That same year, he was named Director of the My Brother’s Keeper Alliance.

Building his resume and its metric of successes, he was the second Executive Project Director of the MBK movement assisting in foundation building.

That effort helped shape and establish the blueprint for serving boys and young men of color.

Though his leadership, he created a model in response to Houston’s former president nationally to over 200 active jurisdictions driven to eliminate economic discrepancies for youth, families and communities.

Noel was known for his creativity, energy, spirituality,

uplifting speaking engagements and above all, servant leadership.

Community Involvement

The trailblazer that he was didn’t stop there. He was acting president and CEO of the Texas Cops and Kids, Inc and Texas Cops and Communities, pro bono.

His affiliation with the non-profit organizations was established in 2000 focusing on quality after-school tutoring services for underprivileged children in hyper-poverty-stricken.

Texas Cops and Communities mission was and still is to empower young minds in high crime neighborhoods to achieve personal and educational success by developing interpersonal relationships with law enforcement, educators, community leaders, and dedicated citizens.

This mission continues to live on in the passionate hearts and minds of each of the remaining active board of directors.

The Legacy’s Roots Continue

Noel is survived by his wife, Tiffany Pinnock; his son Noel Pinnock II, his daughter Nole* Milan Pinnock; his granddaughter Alaya Jai Pinnock; his beloved parents Maple & Deborah Pinnock; his embryo twin brother Lowell Pinnock and brothers, Richard Pinnock, Dietrich Pinnock, Derrell Pinnock (5 reasons); his sister-n-laws Dyonna Pinnock & Kimberly Pinnock; his nephews Derrell Pinnock II, Phoenex Pinnock & Jalen Pinnock; his nieces Franchesca Pinnock, Thai Pinnock, Ashlie Pinnock, & Great Nephew, Azarieh James Cole Pinnock; His New York/Jamaica/Florida families; Uncle Marcus & Auntie Linda Holley, Uncle Robert, Uncle James & Keisha Johnson, Uncle Rick and Auntie Cynthia Miller, Uncle Charles & Nilda Johnson, Auntie Florence Johnson, Auntie Lorraine Jones, Auntie Marsha Miller, Uncle Joseph Nicholas; Uncle David Gray, Auntie Sandra Broussard, Auntie Sharon Eng, Auntie Ruthie Marla, Auntie Margaret Gray, Auntie Annie Morrison, host of cousins, friends, and professional colleagues.

Noel – What a life, what a legacy that you built from the ground up. Your legacy continues today from the branches grown from your roots to the limbs extended to those you’ve touched.

It’s amazing what Noel Andrew Pinnock accomplished in just 48 short years than some do in a lifetime.

On November 6, 2018, in an article he wrote called “Get

Source: Lowell Pinnock

At It,” Noel said, “After reading this, the only question you have to ask yourself is ‘What time do I get started?’”

He concluded with, “Get at it!”

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Inspired by Dick Gregory, This Vegan is Still Teaching a Healthy Diet by Any Greens Necessary

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior

When Dick Gregory died in 2017 at the age of 84, many chose to remember his comedic genius. Most properly credited him with inspiring greats like Richard Pryor, Eddie Murphy, and Chris Rock.

Others recalled how the multi-talented entertainer became a prolific freedom fighter in the civil rights movement. But District resident Tracye McQuirter will never forget how Gregory inspired her to change her eating habits and, ultimately, her life.

“When I was a sophomore at Amherst College in the 1980s, our Black Student Union brought Dick Gregory to campus to talk about the political, economic, and social state of Black America,” McQuirter reflected on the National Newspaper Publishers Association’s live daily morning program, Let It Be Known.

“Instead, he decided to talk about the plate of Black America and how unhealthfully most folks eat. This was in 1986, and we didn’t know that Dick Gregory had become a nutrition guru.”

McQuirter said she only knew Gregory as a comedic legend and civil rights icon. She also recalled that at the time of Gregory’s visit, she “was completely uninterested in healthy food.”

“But what grabbed me was when he started to trace – graphically – the path of a hamburger from a cow on a factory farm, through the slaughterhouse process, to a fast-food restaurant, to a clogged artery, to a heart attack. I had never heard anything like that before,” McQuirter stated.

While she and her two siblings grew up in a home where her mother made food from scratch each day, and vegetables were aplenty, her sugar-drinking, candy-eating cousins only heightened her interest in sugary products.

“At that time, I was going through a paradigm shift. I was taking a lot of political science and African American studies classes and learning about imperialism, racism, sexism, heterosexism, and classism for the first time or in new ways. It was changing my awareness and sense of self,” McQuirter remarked.

She added,

“I had also decided to stop relaxing my hair and wear it naturally. And it was with this new consciousness that I listened to Dick Gregory’s lecture.”

The lecture opened McQuirter’s eyes, and she could quickly survey the landscape, where the District proved a bastion of Black vegetarians and vegans long before today’s popularity.

“I immersed myself in this community taking cooking classes, attending lectures, going grocery shopping, asking hundreds of questions, and getting mentored,” McQuirter noted. “So, I learned how to be vegan from this community after I learned why to be vegan from Dick Gregory.”

Since then, McQuirter has earned her stripes as a transformative leader in plant-based nutrition and Black women’s health.

Dubbed a “Food Hero” by Vegetarian Times magazine, McQuirter has helped thousands of people turn to veganism. In addition, she created the 10 Million Black Vegan Women Movement to change the paradigm of Black women’s health.

She also authored “Ageless Vegan” and “By Any Greens Necessary.”

McQuirter also created the first free African American Vegan Starter Guide. The New York Times cited her work as a critical factor driving the rise in veganism among African Americans.

“Dick Gregory rocked my world when he made all these connections, and now it’s been 35 years,” said McQuirter, an advisor for the Black Women’s Health Imperative and Spelman College.

McQuirter, who also studied at Howard University, works as an adjunct professor at the University of the District of Columbia Center for Nutrition, Diet, and Health.

She holds a master’s degree in Public Health Nutrition from New York University and a bachelor’s degree in Black Studies from Amherst College.

“Animals get their proteins from plants,” McQuirter explained. “You get your proteins second-hand – from muscle tissues built from plants feeding animals. It’s normal and natural to get protein from plants, and to eat plants directly instead of going through the slaughterhouse process is best.”

She concluded, “You get the bad with animals – the saturated fat and cholesterol that leads to diabetes, cancers, stroke, and hypertension. All of these we know affect African Americans the most.”

McQuirter said she understands there are too many food deserts and food insecurity in communities of color. However, she believes the resources are there to overcome those challenges.

Source: National Newspaper Publishers Association

Tracye McQuirter

“If you’re able to grow your food, that’s the best,” she said. “If you go to a Farmer’s market, they will have organic fruits and vegetables, and that’s great; if organic foods aren’t available, then get nonorganic and wash the food well. So, it’s not an all-ornothing proposition.”

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Prescribing Adolescents Multiple Psychiatric Drugs Now the Norm, Particularly in BIPOC Communities

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior

TThe current trend of polypharmacy – the simultaneous use of multiple drugs by a single patient for one or more conditions – reflects racism and discrimination in the treatment of Black, Indigenous, and people of color children and teens, according to Dr. Carolyn Coker Ross, an intergenerational trauma expert and eating disorder treatment specialist.

“It has been documented in adults that Black patients with mental illness are more likely to receive substance care and more likely to be diagnosed with psychotic disorders than with depression and anxiety,” Dr. Ross stated.

“The lack of access and availability of therapeutic options to treat mental illness and the lack of understanding and acknowledgment that mental illness in teens and children may have their roots in trauma.

“Medication will not fix the brain changes caused by childhood trauma experiences and may not even fix the symptoms. Beyond this, medication use in children and teens is risky at best and dangerous at its worst.” Dr. Ross’ comments are in response to a new report revealing that anxious and depressed teens are using multiple, powerful psychiatric drugs, many of which are untested in adolescents or for use in tandem.

In 2020, the journal Pediatrics reported that 40.7 percent of people ages 2 to 24 who were prescribed a drug for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder also were prescribed at least one other medication for depression, anxiety, or another mood or behavioral disorder. Further, researchers found more than 50 psychotropic medicines prescribed in such combinations.

“These patterns should spark further inquiry about the appropriateness, efficacy, and safety of psychotherapeutic polypharmacy in children and young adults, particularly within subgroups where the use is high,” the authors concluded.

While the use of multiple psychotropic medications counts as concerning in such a young population, it is also not surprising given the lack of other treatment options, Dr. Ross told the Washington Informer.

“Beyond this, however, is a lack of understanding about the root cause of many of the psychiatric conditions being diagnosed and treated with medications,” Dr. Ross asserted.

She continued:

“Both during and before the pandemic, BIPOC children and teenagers are exposed to more trauma and adverse events than any white children and teens.”

Given that depression and anxiety have increased in recent years among youth, and young ones who have experienced trauma or childhood adversity (or ACEs – adverse childhood experiences) are more likely to experience depression and anxiety and other health and learning challenges, this is a significant health and social justice conversation, added

Sarah Marikos, the executive director of the ACE Resource Network (ARN).

“The issues on prescribing psychotropic medications for children, adolescents, and young people, and lack of access to behavioral health supports for youth who have an increasing need for mental health support is one of the biggest health challenges our country is facing right now,” Marikos wrote in an email.

“This is partly why the U.S. Surgeon General issued an advisory on youth mental health at the end of 2021. When diagnosing and treating depression, anxiety, and ADHD, as well as many more common health conditions, particularly among young people, it is important to have a traumainformed approach.”

Marikos continued:

“Giving children and young people, or anyone really, a psychiatric diagnosis with medication has serious, potentially helpful, and potentially harmful consequences. Diagnosis informs treatment. Therefore, if the diagnosis is not right, the treatment may not work, or worse, it could be hurtful.”

“Diagnoses can also impact how young people think and feel about themselves and perhaps define themselves. Doctors and behavioral health providers who understand trauma and seek to understand their patients’ history and experiences, may mean a shift in diagnosis and treatment.”

The New York Times noted a nationwide study published in 2006 examined records of visits to doctors’ offices by people younger than 20 and found a sharp rise in office visits involving the prescription of antipsychotic drugs — to 1.2 million in 2002 from 200,000 in 1993. In addition, the drugs were increasingly prescribed in combinations, particularly among low-income children.

The newspaper added that between 2004 and 2008, a national study of children enrolled in Medicaid found that 85 percent of patients on an antipsychotic drug were also prescribed a second

“While I believe physicians and psychiatrists are probably overprescribing these medications, I don’t believe they do so intentionally,” Tietz stated.

“Unfortunately, they are often left with little choice. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other forms of counseling have been shown to be an essential part of managing mental health conditions,” Tietz continued.

“However, there are few professionals in the medical field today who practice adolescent psychiatry and can provide this benefit to our youth.

“This leaves prescribers with the task of trying to manage mental health concerns strictly with medication.

“I believe any physician would tell you that they want to help the patient to the best of their ability. Unfortunately, right now, physicians have few tools besides medication to do this.”

Get Immediate Help

People often don’t get the mental health services they need because they don’t know where to start.

Talk to your primary care doctor or another health professional about mental health problems. Ask them to connect you with the right mental health services.

If you do not have a health professional who is able to assist you, use these resources to find help for yourself, your friends, your family, or your students.

Emergency Medical Services, 911

If the situation is potentially life-threatening, get immediate emergency assistance by calling 911, available 24 hours a day.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

If you or someone you know is suicidal or in emotional distress, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Trained crisis workers are available to talk 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Your confidential and toll-free call goes to the nearest crisis center in the Lifeline national network. These centers provide crisis counseling and mental health referrals.

Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org

Find Treatment with SAMHSA

SAMHSA’s Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator is a confidential and anonymous source of information for persons seeking treatment facilities in the United States or U.S. Territories for substance use/addiction and/or mental health problems.

Sources: MentalHealth.gov. National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA)

medication, with the highest rates among disabled youngsters and those in foster care.

“It’s a fact that our youth are experiencing more mental health concerns today than ever before,” offered Laura Tietz, a pediatric pharmacist.

She once worked at Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital in Ohio.

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As Black Americans Struggle To Get a Good Night Sleep, International Research Details the Benefits of Proper Rest

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

A

staggering 90 percent of people fail to achieve a good night’s sleep, according to new international research presented at the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Congress 2022.

The study found that suboptimal sleep was associated with a higher likelihood of heart disease and stroke.

The authors estimated that seven in ten of these cardiovascular conditions could be prevented if everyone was a good sleeper.

And while researchers homed in on the sleep behaviors of 7,200 people — comprised mostly of Europeans — Americans also aren’t sleeping.

Black Americans suffer worse from short sleep or sleep apnea.

Earlier this year, the JAMA Open Network indicated that the problem continues to worsen for African Americans.

JAMA researchers discovered that Black Americans get less sleep than white people, a deficit of 15 minutes a day in childhood that grows into almost an hour in adulthood.

Additionally, an Oxford study found that far more Black and Hispanic people than white people report routinely getting less than 6 hours of sleep, well short of the recommended 7 to 9 hours for adults.

“Sleep is a privilege,” Dayna Johnson, a sleep epidemiologist at Emory University, told Science.org. “If we can target sleep, we might be able to reduce the burden of all types of diseases among racial minorities.”

Science Direct found that more than a dozen studies have identified racial discrimination as a contributor to sleep disparities.

“Black people reported more discrimination and more severe insomnia symptoms than white people, and a statistical analysis determined discrimination accounted for 60% of their insomnia severity,” researchers wrote at Science Direct.

Researchers also discovered that environmental factors also cut into sleep. For example, multiple studies have found that Black, Hispanic, and other individuals of

color tend to reside in areas where they are exposed to approximately twice as much ambient light at night as white people.

“Exposure to artificial light from the street and commercial buildings has been found to suppress melatonin—a hormone that helps initiate sleep,” Researchers wrote. “That causes people to fall asleep later at night, resulting in poorer sleep overall.”

Science.org also found that Black, Hispanic, and Asian people in the United States are also exposed to disproportionately high levels of particulate air pollution.

The researchers reported that exposure to this type of pollution can cause inflammation of the nose and throat, and some evidence suggests chronic exposure can worsen sleep apnea and increase daytime sleepiness.

“And then there is night-time noise, which a 2017 study at hundreds of sites across the United States found is higher in neighborhoods with a higher proportion of Black residents,” they wrote.

The low prevalence of good sleepers “was expected given our busy, 24/7 lives,” said study author Dr. Aboubakari Nambiema of INSERM (the French National Institute of

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Health and Medical Research), in Paris, France.

“The importance of sleep quality and quantity for heart health should be taught early in life when healthy behaviors become established. Minimizing night-time noise and stress at work can both help improve sleep.”

According to a news release from the ESC, previous studies on sleep and heart disease have generally focused on one sleep habit, such as sleep duration or sleep apnea, where breathing stops and starts while sleeping.

Researchers in France used a healthy sleep score combining five sleep habits. They investigated the association between the baseline sleep score, changes over time in the sleep score, and incident cardiovascular disease.

Researchers recruited men and women aged 50 to 75 years and free of cardiovascular disease to a preventive medical center between 2008 and 2011.

The average age was 59.7 years, and 62% were men.

Participants underwent a physical examination and completed questionnaires on lifestyle, personal and family medical history, and medical conditions.

According to the news release, researchers used questionnaires to collect information on five sleep habits at baseline and two follow-up visits.

Each factor was given 1 point if optimal and 0 if not.

A healthy sleep score ranging from 0 to 5 was calculated, with 0 or 1 considered poor and 5 considered optimal.

Those with an optimal score reported sleeping 7 to 8 hours per night, never or rarely having insomnia, no frequent excessive daytime sleepiness, no sleep apnoea, and an early chronotype (being a morning person).

The researchers checked for incident coronary heart disease and stroke every two years for a total of 10 years.

At baseline, 10% of participants had an optimal sleep score, and 8% had a poor score.

“During a median follow-up of eight years, 274 participants developed

coronary heart disease or stroke,” according to the release.

The researchers analyzed the association between sleep scores and cardiovascular events after adjusting for age, sex, alcohol consumption, occupation, smoking, body mass index, physical activity, cholesterol level, diabetes, and family history of heart attack, stroke, or sudden cardiac death.

They found that the risk of coronary heart disease and stroke decreased by 22% for every 1-point rise in the sleep score at baseline.

More specifically, compared to those with a score of 0 or 1, participants with a score of 5 had a 75% lower risk of heart disease or stroke.

The researchers estimated the proportion of cardiovascular events that could be prevented with healthier sleep.

They found that if all participants had an optimal sleep score, 72% of new cases of coronary heart disease and stroke might be avoided each year.

Over two follow-ups, almost half of the participants (48%) changed their sleep score: in 25%, it decreased, whereas, in 23%, it improved.

When the researchers examined the association between the change in score and cardiovascular events, they found that a 1-point increment over time was associated with a 7% reduction in coronary heart disease or stroke risk.

“Our study illustrates the potential for sleeping well to preserve heart health and suggests that improving sleep is linked with lower risks of coronary heart disease and stroke,” Dr. Nambiema stated in the release.

“We also found that the vast majority of people have sleep difficulties. Given that cardiovascular disease is the top cause of death worldwide, greater awareness is needed on the importance of good sleep for maintaining a healthy heart.”

Source: National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA)

Written by: Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

Don’t Feel Overwhelmed Pick the Best Weight Loss Plan in 2023

By d-mars.com News Provider

It’s that time of year again when many Americans make the resolution to lose weight and start a healthier routine. This year, with the pandemic largely behind us, many Americans will once again focus on their health.

In fact, 64% of Americans are motivated to lose weight because they know it has an impact on their immunity, according to a recent poll of 2,000 U.S. adults aged 30 and above. And 61% also now realize that a healthy diet and lifestyle can better protect their long-term health.

So, what should you look for when it comes to a weight loss plan? Courtney McCormick, MPH, RDN, LDN, corporate dietitian at Nutrisystem, offers these tips to help you choose a program that’s right for you.

Keep it Simple : Let’s face it, in our crazy busy world, we must make hundreds of decisions a day, often at lightning speed. You shouldn’t have to worry about counting points or measuring food. Look for a plan that’s easy and convenient and does the work for you.

Focus on Protein: Protein is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle and a key to weight loss. Protein helps with satiety, so it’s important to include some in each meal and snack. Look for plans with high-protein options, like Nutrisystem’s new premium meals, which include up to 30 grams in each meal and keep you full for up to five hours. Look for Value: As prices continue to rise at grocery stores nationwide, many people are struggling to find affordable options that can help them eat healthier and lose weight. However, those options do exist. Look for plans that are cost-effective and deliver most meals right to your door.

Don’t Give Up Your Favorite Meals: Look for a plan that lets

you eat your favorite foods. Losing weight doesn’t have to mean giving up the things you love. Weight loss plans like Nutrisystem offer comfort foods made healthier that are perfectly portioned so you can enjoy them without any guilt. Plus, the plan also offers dessert for those who have a sweet tooth.

Seek Support: Achieving the goals you’ve set for yourself is so much easier when you have a support system. The best people to have on your team when you’re trying to lose excess weight are those who sit down at daily meals with you. Even better, your chances of reaching and maintaining your weight loss goal increase dramatically if another person in your household joins you on the journey. Look for plans that offer options for both you and your partner to get healthier together.

Remember, your weight loss goals will be more than achievable this year if you follow the right plan for you. Look for a program designed to help you succeed.

For more great information and other ideas to help fuel your success this year, visit leaf. nutrisystem.com.

Source: StatePoint Media

7 Tips for Finding a Medicare Plan That Works for You

By d-mars.com News Provider

Feeling overwhelmed by your Medicare options? There’s a good reason for that. With more than 3,000 Medicare Advantage plans, over 700 Part D Prescription Plans available and an array of carriers offering Medicare Supplement plans, there’s a lot to consider.

“Whether this is your first time enrolling in Medicare or you’ve been through the process before, it’s easy to get confused by the big picture, not to mention all the details,” says Ryan Kocher, Medicare growth officer at Cigna.

This Medicare Annual Election Period (AEP), Kocher is demystifying the enrollment process by sharing the same tips he offers to his own friends and family members:

1. Don’t wait. Understanding Medicare can protect your health and finances in the years to come. If you are transitioning from a commercial plan, work with an expert on your company’s insurance plan to avoid gaps in coverage as well as late penalties.

2. Nail down the basics. There are many different plan types. Here’s a breakdown:

• Original Medicare, offered through the U.S. government, includes all providers who agree to participate in the program.

• Medicare Supplement plans are plans offered by many private insurers that complement Original Medicare. For an additional premium, these plans cover costs such as copays and coinsurance not covered by Original Medicare. There are a number of standardized options available.

• Standalone Prescription Drug Plans, offered by private insurers for a monthly premium, provide drug coverage not covered by Original Medicare or Medicare Supplement.

• Medicare Advantage (MA) plans cover everything covered by Original Medicare, and most also include dental, vision, and hearing benefits. They often include prescription drug coverage, and other extras like over-the-counter drugs, transportation to doctor’s visits and pharmacies, and fitness plans. MA plans are often available at no extra cost.

3. Review your plan annually. During the AEP (October 15-December 7), it’s important to review your current Medicare plan, even if you like it. This is because plan details are subject to change every year. Review the Annual Notice of Changes, which is mailed to you by your insurer each September. This document spells out plan changes for the upcoming year.

4. Compare all the costs. Be sure to factor in all the associated costs of a given plan, not just the monthly premium. Out-of-pocket costs, such as co-pays and deductibles, should also be considered. Additionally, note the prices and rules around the prescription drugs you take.

5. Check network requirements. Before signing up for a particular plan, check to make sure that your favorite health care providers are in its network. While you may be able to go out of network for care, be prepared to pay more if you do.

6. Ask questions. Don’t settle on a plan until you understand it. If you have questions, reach out to your broker, insurer, physician, and even those friends and family members who have Medicare for help.

7. Use your plan. Now that you have a plan, make the most of its benefits. Schedule all the screenings, vaccines, and other preventive health measures recommended by your doctor. Early intervention can help detect conditions early when they can be more effectively treated.

For more information about Medicare, visit Medicare.gov, Cigna’s website at www. cignamedicare.com, or the state health insurance assistance program in your area.

“Don’t be daunted by the Medicare enrollment process. Being a careful shopper can ensure you find a plan that accommodates your wallet and your well-being,” says Kocher.

Source: StatePoint

Old Folks Saying

Do I look like Boo-Boo The Fool?

Avery common yet comical euphemism used by people of color details the “lies you tell” to your parent(s).

When someone makes a mistake or a bad decision that they are too embarrassed to address, they may opt out of telling the full story or embellish the details.

However, your intuition has already picked up on the fact that the lie was so bad that your intelligence has now been compromised. Afterall, it’s not like you don’t have an idea the person’s character you deal with in some consistent manner.

You end up looking at them with a face called, “Do I look like Boo-Boo the Fool” to you?

This alternative is sometimes a method used by parents to forego other forms of punishment over misconduct, or in this case – tall tales.

Let’s say you stay out late past the curfew you’ve been given. It’s now 2 a.m. and your parents instructed you to be in by 1 a.m. Not to mention, the grace they gave you due to the original curfew being at midnight. However, you are no Cinderella, so you lose track of time and the fairy godmother ain’t singing no “Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo.”

As soon as you get in, the light comes on, and BAM! Your mom and/or dad have caught you. Not to mention, it’s only so many exits in a home so the back door or the window are usually dead giveaways.

Then, you see them and the first thing you’re thinking may be, “See, what had happened was….” By then, the excuse will not be believed because your guardians know exactly who you are and what you’re capable of.

While the question alone is rhetorical, opt for a more realistic response such as, “I was wrong for not abiding by the time you gave me. However, don’t put yourself through pain punishing me. Save it for a rainy day. And last I checked, it’s dry outside.”

Now if it is indeed raining, a quick prayer may suffice.

Did you know...

By Rep. Maxine Waters Contributing Writer

NANCY

WILSON

Nancy began singing in church at the age of four in her hometown of Chillicothe, Ohio. For more than five decades, she captivated audiences across the globe with her soul-stirring performances that would send chills down your spine; her more than 70 critically acclaimed albums, many of which I own; and her chart-topping hits such as “Guess Who I Saw Today,” “Save Your Love for Me,” and “Face It Girl, It’s Over,” which are considered classics by generations of musicians and fans around the world.

Wilson is also a pioneer and trailblazer for women and entertainers of color. She hosted the National Public Radio program “Jazz Profiles” for nearly a decade, won an Emmy for her starring role in NBC’s “The Nancy Wilson Show,” and served as one of the first African American spokeswomen for major national brands, including Campbell’s Soup.

Due to her brilliant talent, poise, and grace, Nancy was the recipient of numerous awards and recognitions including three Grammy Awards, an NAACP Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Urban League’s Whitney Young Jr. Award. She also received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and was recognized by the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change. In 2004, Wilson also received the coveted National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Jazz Masters Fellowships Award, which is the highest honor granted to jazz musicians by the U.S. government.

Source: NNPA

American Jazz Singer February 20, 1937 - December 13, 2018

American Cancer Society Urges the Black Community to Pay Close Attention to Prostate Health

By d-mars.com News Provider

Prostate cancer is the second most common type of cancer diagnosed and the second leading cause of cancer death among Americans with prostates. This year alone, more than a quarter million people in the U.S. will receive the diagnosis. With approximately 1 in 6 Black men expected to be diagnosed with prostate cancer in his lifetime compared to 1 in 8 White men, the Black community is disproportionately impacted due to long-standing health inequalities.

To address this issue and save lives, the American Cancer Society recommends Black people born with a prostate speak with their doctor and make an informed decision about screening. There are usually no symptoms until the disease is advanced. Screening can catch cancer early and make it easier to find effective treatment options.

“Health inequalities within the Black community have been well documented,” said Tawana Thomas Johnson, senior vice president, and chief diversity officer at the American Cancer Society. “Reasons for these inequalities are complex but likely rooted in the structural racism that contributes to poverty, under-resourced communities, and the lack of access to high-quality health care. All these factors lead to Black people having a higher cancer burden due to greater obstacles to cancer prevention, detection, treatment, and survival.”

While death rates from prostate cancer have dropped by more than 50% since the early 1990s, Black people still have the highest death rate for prostate cancer of any racial or ethnic group in the U.S., dying from this type of cancer at a rate double to white people. Studies also show Black people diagnosed with advanced-stage

prostate cancer are significantly less likely to receive any treatment compared with white people, even when they have similar health insurance.

“We urge the Black community to work with us to address these alarming statistics,” said Dr. Arif Kamal, the chief patient officer at the American Cancer Society. “Talk to a doctor about screening and available screening options, and if diagnosed, use us as a resource to learn more about the research and resources available for the best cancer outcomes.”

Talk to a doctor about prostate cancer screening if you are:

● • 40 or older and have more than one close family member who had prostate cancer

● • 45 or older and Black or have a close family member who was diagnosed with prostate cancer before they turned 65

● • 50 or older and have no family history of prostate cancer

From 1991 to 2019, there has been a 32% decline in cancer mortality due to early detection, research, advocacy, and patient support. The American Cancer Society offers multiple resources to support patients and improve cancer outcomes. This includes a 24/7 cancer helpline, free transportation to treatment, free lodging if treatment is needed away from home, online patient and caregiver peer support communities and information on current research.

Learn more at cancer.org/partneringforlife

Source: National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA)

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s a professional owner, entrepreneur/newcomer, or a person in need of that inspiration, the fuel you ran off on last year is no more. Whether it’s further advertisement you need for your business to grow or professional career broadening, existing plans of expansion, or promotional partnerships – completion is gateway to satisfaction.

Our motto for the month of January stands on growth, expansion, partnership and completion. Houston ranks 18 among the top 20 cities in the U.S. for having Black-owned business at 3.6 percent, per LendingTree.com. Those numbers fall behind Atlanta, D.C. and Fayetteville who’s in the top five.

Not to be deterred, we here at d-mars.com want to remind you as to why you got into business for yourself. Whether you’re in need of a start, a helping hand or encouragement, remember to sharpen these tools.

With any new year comes reflection that leads to a road of growth – Are you growing alongside the seeds you’re sowing?

GROWTH

Has the purpose you set out for being nurtured by you or those in your close surroundings?

“If there is no struggle, there’s no progress,” words delivered by the late social reformer, Frederick Douglas. We all have a struggle in some area, but how often do we take responsibility for what it causes? Are we choosing to stay there out of comfort, or can we let go to expand?

Growth employs an ability to treat each moment not like the day before but with a purpose for better today:

• Learning to better control your emotions and negative thoughts.

• Overcoming procrastination or laziness.

• Being open to learning new things and skills – having a “growth mindset “and finding peace and contentment with things you cannot change.

With MR. D-MARS, growth is a constant fixture in his vocabulary and communication with others. As it pertains to Vaskey Media Group and its long-standing entity, d-mars. com, the Houston native is never shy about conveying a supportive message challenging his employees’ current thinking,

With that knowledge you’ve acquired, write that business plan, decide on the legal structure for your company and keep clear records of your profitability.

If God gave you a mind, use it. Use your intellect. Be open-minded to being able to receive it.”

He concluded, “They always say, ‘Knowledge is power,’ but knowledge is not power, it’s potential power. It’s real power when you use it.

EXPANSION

on expands. So, focus on what you want, not what you do not want.”

When we think of expansion, we think of enlargement and growth. However, in what ways is that directed towards the enrichment of our lives? What’s our current focus and what’s being done about it?

Part of our expansion includes defining our future outside of setbacks. It’s where we finetune and describe the life we’d like to live. In doing so, we must become the person who seeks the achievement for our goals. It isn’t just for us, it’s for those around us. What affects you influences those close to you in any environment.

Author Elaine Welteroth simplified the term saying, “When the world tells you to shrink, expand. “Give more than you must. Make time for what you love. Refine your Inner Circle to place your peace back on the earning block of quality. Resolve your unfinished business. Rethink existing habits and routines. Most importantly, change what you can, not what you can’t control.”

When we think about commitment, we think of dedication to a cause or faithfulness to an activity of importance and significance.

MR. D-MARS has upheld that standard for the past 24 years by keeping an innovative staff filled with creativity while introducing each person to old-school methods that have added quality and practicality for success. That formula alone births its own commitment with gusto.

While commitment may vary in levels given the individual, the benefits of allegiance have its own weight of rewards.

The refusal to commit can be consequential, of course, but what it adds is character. It drives accomplishment, requires resolve, devotion and adherence.

People commit for their reasons, not yours. Though that’s out of our control, understanding the vision of those we have close ties to, work or personal, has value. With value is the engine needed for commitment.

And what do we as individuals get out of commitment? Fulfillment, respect, relationship building and achievement. One aspect of MR. D-MARS’ persona is the repetitiveness of one’s commitment and value,

“We all understand that when we have a treasure chest but using it is what’s valuable and important.”

He added,

“Each one of you is unique and valuable to our department’s running successfully. I’m here but I also want to depend on you to be a beacon so that someone else can look to you for leadership.”

When wanting to expand your industry, trust in your research with these tips:

• New Products for New Markets (age, gender, location)

• Tap Into Different Social Media Platforms.

• Brand Collaborations & Partnerships such as influencers who can boost your audience

• Location-Based Offers such as drawing in consumers by offering free shipping or discounted products for locations.

• Optimize Your Website by making consumers from other regions of the world feel welcomed to use your services

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Educator Esther Jno-Charles once said, “What you focus

Civil Rights Attorney Vernon Jordan expressed how partnership and reciprocity go hand in hand amongst community and our personal lives saying,

- Keith “MR. D-MARS” Davis Sr.

IS GOOD IS GOOD

PARTNERSHIP

In December, he was joined by veteran employees Kimberly Floyd (Chief of Staff & Managing Editor), Lindsey Ford and Bria Casteel (Senior Project Coordinators), Erick Fontejon (Digital Marketing Manager), Tiffany Brown (Assistant Sales Representative) as they welcomed newcomers Émil Flemmon (Associate Editor) and Willie Jones (Sales and Distribution).

However, with new team members comes a time of adjustment and learning; not always an easy feat for some. Moreover, room was given to bring forth a collaboration with likeminded individuals understanding what was and what can be. How are you elevating your current partnerships with people in your family, your community and work establishments? Does who you surround yourself with feel like they’re walking with you instead of behind you?

philosopher and poet, Henri-Frédéric Amiel. The word completion implies fulfillment, accomplishment, execution and achievement. It ultimately provides us with a realization.

In 2019, MR. D-MARS published “Maximizing Your Own Treasure Chest” which went on to receive positive reviews from his community of supporters and those who he has inspired throughout his career. In the book’s preface, he acknowledges friends, family, clients, political and community leaders. However, his humility lies from the growth he received from his mentors.

“I admire all [of my mentors] not for what you have, or what you do, but for using your platform to sow seeds in individuals like me. Not having it all figured out can be a challenge and it is a blessing to have people like you to assure me not knowing it all is a part of the process,” he said.

As for his mentees including his current staff, MR. D-MARS said he’s “blessed with experiences.” He continued, “My journey would not be complete if I could not include you in my endeavors to continuously grow and learn. I hope that my leadership has been significant to you, and it inspires you to take others under your wing….”

Predetermination sets the tone of how ideas are executed. Apply that to your plans to achieve goals over a set time and your journey will cultivate your mentors and your pending

“You are where you are today because you stand on somebody’s shoulders. And wherever you are heading, you cannot get there by yourself. If you stand on the shoulders of others, you have a reciprocal responsibility to live your life so that others may stand on your shoulders. It’s the quid pro quo of life. We exist temporarily through what we take, but we live forever through what we give.”

As Mr. D-MARS embarks on better partnerships with existing clients and making room for more, he’s also growing his commitment to the community, inwardly.

There’s a saying that goes, “If I sang the praises of your hard work, I would lose my voice pretty quickly!” Mr. D-MARS’ demonstration of partnership has included compassion for those he places with opportunity for growth and expansion.

Adjustment period aside, partnership mobilizes resources for development, assistance and sustainability. If you still have some connections that deserve your time, your commitment and can challenge you into greatness, that change starts with you.

• Agree on your goals for partner marketing.

• Practice transparency and mutual respect.

• Communicate constantly.

• Set up a business prenup as a cushion for unexpected results

“Thankfulness is the beginning of gratitude. Gratitude is the completion of thankfulness. Thankfulness may consist merely of words. Gratitude is shown in acts,” said by Swiss

mentees inspired by your efforts.

We can see how growth, expansion, partnership and completion has its own cycle. Whether we follow that model, or not, the start of a new year means the completion of 365 days. Now, how do you want to “grow” your business goals on this day? It’s time!

“We encourage you to look in these areas as you head to the next level. Throughout my 24 years of operations, I understand each category. And with that experience, I want to guide each of you through this new year. It can be done!” MR. D-MARS concluded.

Top Row: Mike Jones, Keith J. Davis Jr., Keith “MR.D-MARS” Davis Sr., Angel Rosa

Middle Row: Kimberly Floyd, Tiffany Brown, Kailyn Davis, Erick Fontejon, Bria Casteel, Emil Flemmon

Bottom Row: Willie Jones, Lindsey Ford

11 Ways to Ensure a Fraud-Free Mission, By Veterans For Veterans

By d-mars.com News Provider

hile identity theft and similar scams are a problem for many Americans, U.S. veterans face a higher-than-average risk of falling victim to that kind of fraud.

Statistics back that up. For example, of the 200,000 reports of fraud the FTC received from military members in 2021, 78% came from military retirees and veterans. And an AARP survey shows that a whopping one-third of vets targeted by service-related scams have lost money in those scams.

What’s going on? Unfortunately, vets and their families are prime targets for fraudsters, in part because they receive special benefits and in part because while enlisted, they frequently changed residences. Past data breaches have also led to leaks of their personal information that make the problem worse.

The good news is that vets can follow these 11 suggestions for protecting themselves and their families from fraud.

1. Practice skepticism. Be suspicious of unexpected calls, emails or text messages that demand action from you. Fraudsters often masquerade as legitimate organizations by creating authentic-seeming caller IDs, email addresses and websites; for example, their email addresses may be similar to those you know and trust, but they’ll be off by one letter - or they’ll end with .net instead of .com, .gov or .org. When in doubt, don’t click on the provided link or attachments or follow their directions; instead, end communications and contact the real organizations directly via the number listed on your latest bill or their official website to check whether the sketchy-seeming communications are legitimate.

2. Protect your private data. Be wary about sharing or

allowing others to overhear your family’s Social Security numbers (SSNs), birth dates or other personal info. Provide the data only when necessary, then confirm how it will be secured. Black-out personal info on any forms you wish to use to access discounts.

3. Create a family code word. Provide that word to the legitimate banks, insurance providers and organizations with which you work so they can easily prove they’re not fraudulent.

4. Review account statements and credit reports. Regularly look over financial, medical and other statements. Every four months, request and read one of the free credit reports offered by Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. Follow up on any questionable charges or other discrepancies.

5. Set up free fraud alerts. Any of the three credit bureaus can arrange for you to be automatically contacted in the event of suspicious charges.

6. When in doubt, freeze your credit. If you’re experiencing identity theft or other possible fraud, a freeze will keep criminals from further accessing your credit.

7. Protect sensitive documents. Shred or keep safe papers containing personal info, including tax forms, birth certificates, Social Security cards, bank account statements and military benefit forms.

8. Be strategic about passwords. Use complex and different passwords, or even “pass-phrases” for each online account, incorporating multiple digits, upper- and lower-case letters and special characters. Stay away from obvious words like pets’ names, your hometown or your favorite sports team. Never write them down. A password manager tool can help you keep them all straight.

9. Forward your mail. Have all mail forwarded when you move or relocate so credit card offers and other documents with potentially private data don’t fall into the wrong hands.

10. Set up an active-duty credit alert. For active-duty service members, ask one of the three credit bureaus to mark your file with this free, one-year alert. It encourages lenders and creditors to take extra steps to verify your identity before approving new or additional credit. Your name will also be removed from pre-screened credit card or insurance offers for two years.

11. Know the signs of identity theft. Indicators may include a lost ID; unfamiliar charges on your bank or credit card statements; credit score issues, calls trying to verify unfamiliar purchases; unfamiliar medical bills; mail theft; suspicious logins to your social media accounts; unrecognized account authentication messages; the arrival of unfamiliar bills or packages; or even warrants for your arrest.

Looking for even better peace of mind when it comes to fraud protection? Aura’s user-friendly, all-in-one digital security platform continually monitors your credit, financial transactions, bank accounts, SSN, the dark web, home and title use, and criminal and court records to help keep your finances and identity safe and secure. As added protection, Aura’s U.S.-based customer service team is available for problem resolution 24/7, and each customer is backed by a $1 million identity theft insurance policy for eligible losses.

Source: Brandpoint

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2 Million U.S. Homes No Longer Require Jumbo Loans Thanks To New Conforming Loan Limits

By d-mars.com News Provider

This could open up more home options for buyers shopping at higher price points and hoping to avoid the additional fees of a jumbo loan.

For the first time, the baseline conforming loan limit in high-cost areas has topped $1 million.

There are 163 counties that have a higher loan limit than the national baseline.

More than 2 million homes across the country no longer require a jumbo loan, according to a new analysis by Zillow Home Loans. This means customers will have additional available inventory that is covered by a more accessible financing option.

The change is due to the Federal Housing Finance Agency’s (FHFA) recent increase of conforming loan limits to $1,089,300 in some high-cost markets. The news may be welcome for buyers looking to purchase a home this coming shopping season, as jumbo loans often come with additional fees and more stringent qualification standards, making them less affordable for most buyers.

The FHFA increased the limits on the home price that qualifies for a conforming loan, which is the largest amount a mortgage company can lend to a borrower and still sells the loans conventionally to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Compared to conforming loans, jumbo loans typically require a higher credit score — 700 is the minimum score that many lenders except for a jumbo loan, versus the score of 620 that many require for a conforming loan. Bigger down payments are also the norm with a jumbo loan: Jumbo loans often require 20% down, although some call for even higher down payments. Some jumbo loans also will require proof of larger cash reserves than conventional loans (up to 12 months’ worth).

For most of the country, the conforming loan requirement increased by $79,000 — going from $647,200 in 2022 to a baseline of $726,200 in 2023. In the most expensive parts of the country (103 counties), the conforming loan limit was raised to $1,089,300, topping the $1 million mark for the first time. These counties are largely concentrated in the nation’s most expensive metro areas, along the coasts and in the Mountain West. These updates to loan limits come within a changing housing market. While home price appreciation has slowed, home prices are still significantly higher than a year ago. Affordability challenges weighed heavily on home sales in the second half of 2022 — the

for conforming loans longer than we have seen in the last few years.”

A recent survey from Zillow Home Loans shows that prospective buyers spend nearly as much time researching their next TV purchase as they do their mortgage lender. Home buyers looking to purchase in the next year can take steps now to research and prepare for their mortgage as they get started on their home-financing journey, including:

Understanding their credit profile: Credit scores are key to getting approved for a mortgage, but for many home buyers, understanding credit is complex.

Improving their credit score: Once buyers familiarize themselves with what’s in their credit report, they can take steps to pay down existing debts, pay bills on time, and review their credit report and dispute possible errors.

Avoiding closing accounts: Don’t close an account to remove it from your report. Those accounts aren’t automatically removed and will continue to show up on your report.

number of listings that went pending in November fell by 16.5% from October and are down 38% compared to last November.

“The addition of 2 million homes that now qualify for conforming loan options across the county is welcome news for home buyers entering a shopping season with fewer homes on the market,” said Nicole Bachaud, Zillow Home Loans senior economist. “Home price appreciation has slowed significantly, and this means that homes nearing jumbo loan territory will stay eligible

Holding off on large purchases that need to be financed: Wait to make purchases that need to be financed, such as a car, until after you close on a home. This type of purchase will impact your debt-to-income ratio, which will negatively impact the amount of home loan you qualify for.

Determining what affordability looks like: Once buyers have a good understanding of their credit report and are satisfied with their credit score, it’s time to understand how much home they can afford. Use Zillow’s mortgage affordability calculator to customize payment details.

“Buyers should educate themselves about loan limits in their area and speak with qualified loan officers so they are making informed choices about their home purchase and the best loan option for their personal financial situation,” said Bachaud.

Source: Zillow Home Loans, per PR Newswire

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Why Chili Is The Perfect Winter Food Taste And Comfort Combined

By d-mars.com News Provider

During the winter and even fall season, chili is probably one of the most user-friendly meals that can be altered for healthy eating and when you don’t want to calorie watch.

Registered Dietician (RD) Amy Keating, a nutritionist at Consumer Reports said, “Chili is a dish even the most inexperienced cook can handle.”

Now making one from scratch may require some skill. However, check out this recipe for White Bean Chili with Chicken. It’s a quick and easy meal that if you choose, bring out the slow cooker to save time.

What You’ll Need:

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 tsp. chili powder

• 1 tsp. cumin

• 1 tsp. garlic powder

• 1 tsp. salt

• Freshly ground black pepper

• 2 (15 oz.) cans navy beans

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 (15 oz.) can corn

• 2 large chicken breasts

• Small bunch of cilantro, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt

• 2 oz. cream cheese

• 1 lime, juiced

• Suggested toppings: tortilla chips, sliced avocado, jalapeno, lime

What Your Pot Should Have In It:

• In a 6- or 8-quart instant pot, add the list of ingredients, onion through corn. Lay chicken on top. Don’t stir.

• Close the lid, set pressure vent to Sealing and pressure cook on high for 20 minutes.

• Allow pressure to come down naturally for 10 minutes and then release remaining pressure by turning pressure valve to Venting position. This takes 2 minutes.

• Open the lid and shred the chicken (I did this, carefully, with it still in the pot), using two forks.

• Stir in cilantro, yogurt, cream cheese and lime juice.

• Serve with toppings as desired.

For The Crockpot Lovers:

• Coat a large skillet with olive oil and warm over medium-high heat.

Add onion and sauté for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

• Add chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt and pepper and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.

• In a small bowl, add about 1 cup of beans and mash with a fork.

• Transfer contents of skillet and all beans to slow cooker. Add broth, corn, and chicken. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.

• Shred chicken with 2 forks. Stir in cilantro, yogurt, cream cheese and lime juice.

• Serve with toppings as desired.

Reminder: Adjust as needed for you and those you’re serving.

Source: Consumer Reports and Taste Of Home