Community Journal 28

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December 2013

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each One, Teach One

Dorothy Okung Releases First Book: “Only the Lonely Can Play” ‘Art Imitating Life’ is how Dorothy Okung, also known as Eno, dealt with being an ‘empty nester’ through her first book...

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Men of Style Gala Raises Funds for Texas Children’s Hospital Sickle Cell Center

Let The Fashions Begin, Inc. recently hosted its 17th Annual Men of Style Gala at Hotel ZaZa with the theme “Dare to Dream.”

Painting for a Good Cause The Art Project, Houston Hosts Prescription: Paint 2013

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R&B Singer Kem Meets and Greets Fans at The Community of Faith

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Legendary Tennis Player Zina Garrison Celebrates Two Milestones

Houston native and tennis great Zina Garrison recently celebrated two milestones at her gala “A Story of Love.”

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Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.

– Nelson Mandela

December 2013

Journal Behind The

3.

Publisher’s Message

Keith J. Davis, Sr.

SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr.

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis

I’m a firm believer that a community is only as strong as its weakest member, which is why it’s so important that we encourage and support one another. Think about it this way: what good is an education if you are not willing to help educate someone else?

This issue’s ‘each one, teach one’ theme shows us how we can help lift up others and give back to our communities and also reminds us of why we should do so.

As always again, thank you for your continued support of d-mars.com. When you support d-mars.com, you are supporting more than just our company; you are supporting the communities in which we live and work. Working together, we can succeed in making positive things happen.

VICE PRESIDENT Kim Floyd

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Valerie Jones

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Contents

Angelle Gillum

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Painting for a Good Cause - The Art Project, Houston Hosts Prescription: Paint 2013................................................................. 4

Johnny Ray Davis, Jr. C.T. Foster Eric D. Goodwine

Dorothy Okung Releases First Book: “Only the Lonely Can Play”........................................................................................................ 6

PHOTOGRAPHY

Men of Style Gala Raises Funds for Texas Children’s Hospital Sickle Cell Center...........................................................................7

Gift Giving and Special Needs Kids............................................................................................................................................................... 6

L.C. Poullard Grady Carter Tony Gaines

Establishing Spiritual and Community Perspective................................................................................................................................ 8

MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR

R&B Singer Kem Meets and Greets Fans at The Community of Faith................................................................................................ 9

Andrea Hennekes

Gospel Stage Play “Meet the McDonalds in the Family Chain”............................................................................................................10

Maximizing Your Child’s Learning with Technology................................................................................................................................ 8

LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Finding the True Cost of a College Education........................................................................................................................................... 11

Kevin Wright

Top DIY Home Winterization Projects.......................................................................................................................................................... 11

DISTRIBUTION

Legendary Tennis Player Zina Garrison Celebrates Two Milestones................................................................................................ 12

Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden

Don’t Bust your budget: Tips and Tricks to Stretch those Holiday Dollars..................................................................................... 12

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Saving Our Selves Tools of the Trade: Armed and Dangerous Part Three of a Three-Part Series............................................ 13

Valerie Jones Bridgett Joe Judy Blake Rev. john Fields J.T. Myers, M. Ed. MRT d-mars.com News Provider Jamie Eisenman

The Black Professional Association Hosts Annual Toy Drive............................................................................................................... 14 Damian LaCroix Congratulates Students for Excelling Academically................................................................................................15 Houston’s Via Colori Street Painting Festival 2013.................................................................................................................................15 Recently Engaged? Critical Financial Questions to Ask Before you say “I Do”..............................................................................16 Move over Carrots: Other Key Nutrients for Healthy Vision.................................................................................................................16 Tips for Merry Holiday Season Travel.......................................................................................................................................................... 17 Five Reasons Why Scent is Important for Home Decorating............................................................................................................... 17

MR. D-MARS

Celebrate the Season with Loved Ones Near and Far...........................................................................................................................18

Tip of the Month

City Wide Club of Clubs (CWCC) Helps Feed the Hungry........................................................................................................................19 Tipping TV’s to Fire Hazards: Vital Home Safety Resolutions for 2014..............................................................................................19

“We cannot seek achievement for ourselves and forget about progress and prosperity for our community...Our ambitions must be broad enough to include the aspirations and needs of others, for their sakes and for our own.”

– Cesar Chavez

Create Inviting Entrances to Welcome Holiday Guests........................................................................................................................20 Modern Answers to Help Seniors Stay in their Homes Longer........................................................................................................... 21 Healthy Fundraising: Tru Balance Water Teams with Local School to Offer ALKALINE Water.................................................. 22 Give Back While Moving from One Community to Another................................................................................................................. 23 Give Back this Holiday Season..................................................................................................................................................................... 23 Learn How You Can Support a Friend Who is Being Abused..............................................................................................................25

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December 2013

Painting for a Good Cause The Art Project, Houston Hosts Prescription: Paint 2013 What happens when you combine community members with a lot of paint and blank canvases – all for a good cause? Prescription: Paint 2013.

The Art Project, Houston (TAPH), a nonprofit organization, held its third annual FUNdraiser “Prescription: Paint 2013” to help support the Bread of Life, Inc. and

its efforts to facilitate mental healing and life transitions of Houston’s homeless.

Prescription: 2013 has been dubbed the “largest interactive paint party in the City of Houston” in which participants were guided through an instructional painting session by renowned watercolorist Joe Synan. Guests

also were treated to food and music as they creatively expressed themselves.

The event was held at the Knowles-Rowland Center at St. John’s Downtown and honorary chairs are fashion designer Tina Knowles and interior designer/Houston philanthropist Anita Smith.

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December 2013

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December 2013

Dorothy Okung Releases First Book: “Only the Lonely Can Play”

Gift Giving and Special Needs Kids

By Judy Blake Contributing Writer

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By Bridgett Joe Contributing Writer ‘Art Imitating Life’ is how Dorothy Okung, also known as Eno, dealt with being an ‘empty nester’ through her first book “Only the Lonely Can Play.”

Okung came to the United States from Nigeria when she 17 years old. After living in Los Angeles for one year, Okung soon found herself in Houston attending Texas Southern University. She graduated with a B.A. in Marketing and landed a job with the Houston Chronicle, in which she worked for four years.

Realizing her drive to be an entrepreneur, she decided to start her own publication and aptly named it Eno Style Magazine. After successfully running the publication for four years, the new age of print publications going digital as well as being short-staffed caused Okung to make the decision to close the magazine.

As the mother of a successful NFL Seattle Seahawks player and a daughter who moved to New York to start her career after graduating from college, Okung found herself as an ‘empty nester." Looking for a way to fill her time, she began writing her feelings about this new phase

in her life. Okung recognized there are many facets of loneliness and penned her first book "Only the Lonely Can Play," which depicts the lives of four different characters coping with loneliness.

At her recent book launch, Okung expressed to her guests that being lonely is a state of mind. In “Only the Lonely Can Play” Okung wants the reader to realize there is a difference between being alone and being lonely and there are positive ways to deal with loneliness.

“Only the Lonely Can Play" is art imitating life for which anyone going through a phase of loneliness will be able to relate!

Although Okung sees her children on a regular basis, she is busy mentoring pre-teens and tweens to build their selfesteem and confidence by empowering them with life skills. Adding to her agenda, Okung has future plans to organize a support group for women who are going through different facets of loneliness. She is a lover of stage plays and hopes to turn “Only the Lonely” into a made-for-TV movie or film.

he holidays can be very challenging when it comes to buying gifts for kids with special needs.

I think if you’re buying a gift for a nine-year-old child, it’s very risky to assume that the child will want an age appropriate toy.

Kids with special needs are very unique and think differently than other kids.

This may not apply to all special needs kids but it certainly applies to many of them.

I always appreciated, and still do, when people ask me what my kids would like.

Even though they’re 22 and 18 years old, they still love receiving presents and definitely have their preferences. Some people may feel uncomfortable asking the parents what their child would like but I always welcomed the opportunity. I would never want someone to spend their time or money choosing something that I know is unsuitable for my child. Every gift ever given to my kids was always appreciated and I would never tell someone what to get them. But if they’re asking, I will be honest.

When my kids were younger, they were typically two to three years behind developmentally. While it may have seemed strange to buy a toy that seemed too babyish, my kids loved it. Buying gifts isn’t always about the chronological age – the child’s developmental age should be taken into account. Moreover, some kids with special needs have unusual interests. Gifts that seemed weird were loved by my kids.

I’ll never forget the year my older son received a placemat with the periodic table of elements. It’s not what you think of as the ideal gift for a child who is eight years old. A placemat sounds so boring and with the table of elements – this would seem even more unusual. But my son LOVED it! It was a fabulous gift! His

fascination at that age was science and he memorized all of the elements. He used to ask people what their favorite periodic element was! To have a placemat with such captivating information was a thrill for him. Whoever would have thought it made his day?

My younger son LOVES gift cards! His tastes can also be most unusual and a gift card from a department store or gaming store was the perfect gift. Again, some people feel uncomfortable about giving gift cards. They feel it’s the easy way out.

In my world, it’s a wonderful gift! My kids truly enjoyed picking out their own gift and were overjoyed when they didn’t have to pay for it.

If you’re one of those people who doesn’t feel comfortable asking the parents, doesn’t want to give gift cards,and wants to make the decision themselves – that’s fine, too. I think it’s important that you purchase the gift from a department store that is convenient for the family, should the gift need to be exchanged for something else. I would also make sure that the toy or game is not violent. It’s very dicey to give a game that brings out the aggression in children. My kids never played with guns, swords or violent video games, and I did not want them in my home.

The most important thing to remember is that this is a joyous season. It doesn’t matter how much the gift costs because when it comes from the heart, it’s priceless! I wish you all a very happy and safe holiday season!

Judy Blake is the author of Judy’s World – The World of Autism through the Eyes of a Mother. Her story chronicles her life and that of her boys. Giving speeches for 10 years, she travels throughout the country and speaks to audiences of all ages. Students, teachers, and adults are taken on a journey about her experiences in raising two boys with hidden disabilities. To purchase her book or schedule her as a speaker, please contact her at judy@judysworld.info or check out her website at www.judysworld.info.

Experience Our World of Marketing, Media and Communication

December 2013

Men of Style Gala Raises Funds for Texas Children’s Hospital Sickle Cell Center Let The Fashions Begin, Inc. recently hosted its 17th Annual Men of Style Gala at Hotel ZaZa with the theme “Dare to Dream.”

Proceeds from the gala benefit the Texas Children’s Hospital Sickle Cell Center’s search for a cure for the inherited blood disorder.

The 2013 Men of Style honorees were recognized for their fashion savvy and contribution to the community.

One of the honorees was d-mars.com’s own MR. D-

MARS. “I was honored to be able to walk for such a great cause,” MR. D-MARS said. “Anytime you’re able to do something for a good cause, it’s worth the time and effort.”

The gala’s co-chairs were Linda Wischnewsky, Vanessa Hall and Constance Charles. Honorary chairs were Francis and Kristyn Page and Judge Michael McSpadden and Anne Van Horn.

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December 2013

Establishing Maximizing your Spiritual and Child’s Learning Community Perspective with Technology

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By Rev. John Fields Contributing Writer

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he Constitution of the United States of America was adopted in September of 1787. The first words of the Constitution are “we the people.”

Civil and social disorder, violence, and high levels of crime suggest that we the people have lost our perspective as a whole in our country, states, cities, and communities.

The Constitution was written with the Bible having profound influence upon the writers whom would shape the instrument. The writers quoted from the Bible 34 percent of the time. Three-fourths of all references to the Bible came from reprinted sermons of that era. The framers of the Constitution constructed it as well as the government with a great sense of biblical realism.

Given the state of our affairs, could it be that we started drifting away from the spiritual perspective of our forbearers, and now we are being carried down the slippery slopes by the swift currents of change?

It has been said that history provides the vehicle for understanding of the past and the present. Our experiences and exposure should become a means of dissem-

inating and comprehending the wisdom, and folly of our forefathers. The sum total of one’s experiences and exposure will determine how one will exhibit one’s self. The disconnects which have allowed for property destruction and violent behaviors must be repaired. Intelligently, opportunity must be frosted, which stimulates the imagination for positive productivity. We the people must come to a cognizance awaking which says our country, cities, and communities can be no better than our collective efforts.

How is it that we are so quick to call on God, and hold prayer vigils when deadly violence surfaces in the schools, malls, and other places? What if we put prayer on the front end, and thank you in the rear? Could we be better if we were dipping in the large pond instead of the small one? Would we be better off if we engaged the mindset of more rather than less in addressing community issues? The more formula means more energy unlocked.

The more formula means greater accountability.

The phrase ‘a more perfect union’ can be found in the U.S. Constitution. The reality is that it should be seen in our communities. Could we work together for a common good? Could we seek first the Kingdom of God, and see what He will do? We have tried everything else.

practice that was once frowned upon, many schools are now encouraging students to bring their own tablets, smartphones and notebook computers into the classroom to improve student learning opportunities. With the rise of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) programs, many parents are wondering how they can ensure their child has the most appropriate technology to help them succeed. The upcoming holiday season is a great opportunity to find the right device for your child.

If your student has the opportunity to participate in a BYOD program, you may have questions about the program and how you can ensure your child is as successful as possible. Read on to learn more about BYOD and what you can do to support your child’s learning in the digital world.

• What is a BYOD program? BYOD’s core appeal is that it enables schools to have personalized, one-to-one learning programs with greater student engagement and accountability, while allowing students and parents the freedom to choose the device that best meets their child’s individual needs.

• What device should I get for my child?

Unlike school clothes, if you choose to invest a little more in a device, you won’t have to replace it next fall. For example, a Notebook/convertible UltraBook or 2-in-1 device with an Intel core processor and Windows 8 operating system grows with students as their learning needs evolve – it’s an investment your child can benefit from for many years.

A 2-in-1 device allows your child to switch between a tablet and laptop, depending on their needs for the school project at hand. These devices weigh less than four pounds, so they won’t

overload your child’s backpack. They also have the battery strength to keep going strong until the final bell.

Your child might also enjoy a device that allows her to draw, write, highlight, annotate and more on her digital touch screens in a natural manner. Intel-powered Windows 8 tablets come with a new generation of “pens,” which engage students in learning and allow educators to maximize the versatility and benefits of the technology they’re already using.

Another device option is a Chromebook, which can provide your child with a full Internet browsing experience at a lower cost. Although Chromebooks are limited in the types of applications and software they can run, they allow students to do real-time collaboration and share their work with the world on the Web. They also have the flexibility to be personalized by each student or teacher.

• How can I help my child succeed? Now that your child has the right device for learning, you can help them use the technology effectively by giving them access to high quality educational resources. For example, the National Tech Goes Home website offers guidance and support for your child’s studying, including free resources to help students learn and play safely online, and it has helpful information for parents.

• What if my school doesn’t have a BYOD program? Visit k12blueprint. com and find a free toolkit that will help your school establish a BYOD program. With careful planning, the incorporation of student-owned devices within classroom instruction can be a driving factor in your child’s engagement and achievement in learning. The right technology can ensure your child maximizes his or her learning potential in a BYOD program. - (BPT)

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December 2013

R&B Singer Kem Meets and Greets Fans at The Community of Faith Bishop James Dixon, II of The Community of Faith hosted A Conversation with Kem at The Community of Faith King’s Dome recently. Guests were allowed to meet and greet award-winning R&B singer/songwriter Kem at the event titled “How Can I Say Thanks?”

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December 2013

Gospel Stage Play “Meet the McDonalds in the Family Chain” James Hudson & Showtime Productions in association with Texas Women’s Empowerment Foundation put on the 25th Year Anniversary live recording of “Meet the McDonalds in the Family Chain.” The gospel stage play is about an old traditional family united by their love of God and the tradition bound by it.

The dynamic cast featured Bruce Johnson, Willie Sharpe, Shawn Mclemore, Mona Moore, Liz Vaughn, Andy Ferrari, Jennifer Rodriguez, LaNell Brooks, Yvonne Stevenson-Handy, Gregory “Sax Man,” April Lawson, and Fran McKenzie.

Experience Our World of Marketing, Media and Communication

December 2013

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Finding the True Cost of a College Education d-mars.com News Provider

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college education is a lifelong investment. College graduates are more likely to be employed and earn more throughout the course of their lives, according to a recent report by the College Board. While the benefits of a college education may be clear, figuring out the true cost and how to pay for it isn't always as obvious.

Today, college-bound students and parents face lots of questions in determining how to pay for college. An early step in the process should be determining the difference between the published cost of attending a particular school and the available scholarships or financial aid from the school. This is called the net price of attending a university. Most colleges have a net price calculator on their websites to assist in this determination.

Additionally, students and parents should try and forecast the true cost of college beyond courses and textbooks – including all the unforeseen costs, such as supplementary study materials, transportation, technology, extracurricular activities, any of which can push students and parents into unexpected debt.

Eighty-one percent of parents plan to

help pay for their children's college education, but a willingness to pay doesn't always correspond to an ability to pay, according to an annual survey commissioned by Discover Student Loans. Scholarships, grants and savings can help cover some expenses, but student loans may be necessary to help cover the full cost of attendance. It's important for students and parents to understand their options and carefully compare federal and private student loans so they can choose the loans that best fit their needs.

"Parents and students should devote as much time to identifying and determining ways to responsibly pay for college as they do to the application and admissions process," said Danny Ray, president of Discover Student Loans. "Conducting research, networking with other families

and taking advantage of helpful online resources and tools such as net price calculators are just a few examples that will provide a better sense of the true cost of college."

Tips for paying for a higher education A few additional tips students and parents should keep in mind when navigating the college financial aid process include: • Maximize free money: Grants, scholarships and other free financial aid can help students pay for some college costs. Resources such as StudentLoan. com and Studentaid.ed.gov can help students and parents identify and apply for important free money. When considering the full mix of financing options, families should compare federal and private student loans including in-

terest rates and origination fees.

• Have a continuous – and honest – dialogue with each other: The financial aid process can be overwhelming. It's essential that college-bound students and their parents know their respective responsibilities and roles in paying for college. Parents should talk with their kids about what's important, their financial limits and where the money is coming from, and then designate who will pay for what expenses.

• Know when to request a professional judgment: If a parent loses his or her job or has his or her wages reduced, then he or she can ask the university's financial office for a professional judgment review. During this process, the financial aid office may consider the projected year income as opposed to prior year income, which could result in possible increases in financial aid awards and a reduction in the expected financial contribution from the parents and student.

As the cost of college continues to increase, it's important to understand the resources available to help pay for a college education, ultimately providing longterm benefits to students and parents. For more information, visit DiscoverStudentLoans.com. - (BPT)

Top DIY Home Winterization Projects d-mars.com News Provider

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s the months pass and the end of the calendar year approaches, it’s time to update your do-it-yourself list. Several home winterization projects will help keep your home in good repair come spring.

While some projects should be left for the experts – like cleaning out the chimney – there are several most homeowners can accomplish themselves. These projects are easy to tackle, and the end result will make a huge difference to your home all winter long and into the spring months.

• Flushing gutters – Leaves and small tree branches often fall onto the roof of your home during the summer months, and then wash into the gutters when it rains. Sometimes they’ll flush out, but other times this debris can build up, and prevent the water from draining down the gutter pipe. In winter, this water can back up and freeze, causing an ice dam, which can then damage the roof shingles, and cause leaks into the home and garage when it rains. Be sure to flush the gutters clean, and if you’ve noticed icicles in certain areas in the past, consider installing a heating cable to help keep the water melted and moving down the gut-

ter and into the yard.

• Sealing concrete cracks – When water gets into cracks in your sidewalk or driveway and freezes, it can expand, creating a much larger crack come spring.

Over time, large cracks will eventually turn into damaged concrete, requiring complete replacement. Tiny cracks that appear shortly after the concrete is poured are not a problem, but those that appear over time and continue to grow are good candidates for repair. There are a variety of patching materials from Sakrete that can be used to repair cracks. Small narrow cracks can be filled with latex, polyurethane or other products typically found in caulk type tubes or plastic squeeze bottles.

They have the advantage of not requiring mixing and being applied directly into

the crack. Sakrete Top n Bond is a much more versatile product that can be used to repair any cracks ranging anywhere from extremely fine to several inches across. In addition, Top n Bond is a portland cement-based product just like the concrete slab. This allows for a better blending of the both the existing slab and the repair material. Should the need or desire to completely resurface the slab arise in the future, the Top n Bond will easily bond to the surface for a “like new” surface.

• Repairing potholes – Any missed cracks in past years with asphalt driveways probably have become potholes by now thanks to the freezing and thawing of water during the winter month.

But you don’t need to replace the entire driveway to take care of these problems.

Sakrete U.S. Cold Patch is a strong patch product made from 95 percent recycled materials with no odor or mess. Just sweep the area in and around your pothole, pour in the patching mixture, and roll over the area with a car tire, allowing you to use the driveway immediately.

Make certain the entire hole is completely filled and tamped down to prevent water from seeping into the patch. Because U.S. Cold Patch doesn’t contain solvents and raw asphalt, there is no danger of tracking the material into the house or garage.

• Extra insulation against heat loss – Colder temperatures affect pipes, doorways and windows. Protect pipes from freezing by wrapping any pipes exposed to the cold with pipe insulation.

Also check your doors and windows for leaks or gaps. Find gaps by lighting a candle and holding the flame near the closed window and door seams. If the flame flickers, air is moving through the seam where there is a gap. Fill those gaps with caulk or weather stripping to form a better barrier against the cold.

These home DIY projects don’t take a lot of time to accomplish, and will benefit your home and property during the winter months and as spring arrives. Be sure to put them on your home winterization to-do list each fall, so you can enjoy the winter in comfort. - (BPT)

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December 2013

Don’t Bust your Budget: Tips and Tricks to Stretch those Holiday Dollars

Photos by Meagan Elliott

Legendary Tennis Player Zina Garrison Celebrates Two Milestones

By Valerie Jones Contributing Writer

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ouston native and tennis great Zina Garrison recently celebrated two milestones at her gala “A Story of Love.” The first milestone was Garrison turning 50 and the second milestone was the 20th anniversary of the Zina Garrison Tennis Academy (ZGA).

“To celebrate these milestone events together is just amazing,” Garrison said.

“On this occasion, I think about the passion I have always had for the game of tennis and the love that I have for my hometown. It was wonderful seeing and celebrating with the people that have supported me and helped me throughout the years. This is a huge pay-it-forward opportunity.”

The ZGA honored tennis legend Billie Jean King at the gala, presenting her with the “Service with Love” award for her contributions to the ZGA program, her championship efforts both on and off the court, as well as being a role model for today’s youth. Garrison said Billie Jean King is one of her favorite people and she learned a great deal from her.

Other notable attendees included Olympic legends and gold medalists Pam Shriver, Carl Lewis, and Jackie JoynerKersee, fellow Olympian Carol Lewis, former Houston Texans players Chester Pitts and Travis Johnson and basketball Hall of Famer/former Houston Rockets player Calvin Murphy.

The mission of the ZGA is to develop stars in the classroom, on the tennis court, and in the community by providing educational support and tennis instruction to underserved youth in the Houston community. To date, the ZGA has provided services to more than 25,000 children.

Garrison began playing tennis at age 10 at MacGregor Park under the instruction of John Wilkerson. She turned pro in 1982 after being ranked the #1 Junior Player in the World. She reached a career high of #4 and became the first black woman since Althea Gibson to reach a Grand Slam final in 1990. Garrison won 14 single titles and 20 doubles titles during a career highlighted by a Gold Medal in Women’s Doubles and a Bronze Medal in Women’s Singles at the 1998 Olympics. She won the Mixed Doubles title at Wimbledon in 1988 and 1990.

It’s evident that the sport of tennis is near and dear to her heart, just as much as Garrison’s love for her community is.

ZGA has already provided services to more than 25,000 children, but Garrison wants to do more.

“I don’t think I’ve reached my goal yet for a couple of reasons: one, we don’t have a permanent place and two, we’ve reached more than 25,000 kids – which is great – but we are always thinking of ways to bring in more kids,” she said. “I am extremely proud that we’ve helped more than 25,000 kids, but we want to build up momentum to keep it going for another 20 years.”

The main focus of the ZGA is to shape great stewards of the community.

d-mars.com News Provider

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reating lists, checking them twice - it's a tradition for many families across the country this time of year as they plan and shop for gifts for friends and family. Even with the economy starting to recover, many people will set a budget before tackling their holiday shopping, but two-thirds of those that set a budget will likely go over, according to a recent survey.

People also think they have a little more than $26 in spare change lying under couch cushions, tucked into purses and pant pockets and tossed about on the floor of the car, according to the survey, released by Coinstar. But the average amount customers convert to a no-fee eCertificate or gift card when they cash in their coins at a Coinstar kiosk is $56 – more than double the amount that consumers think they have, which can certainly help extend holiday shopping budgets.

"We hear all the time how surprised customers are by the amount of money they have when they pour their spare change at our kiosks," said Mike Skinner, president of Coinstar. "Converting coins to cash vouchers and no-fee eCertificates or gift cards from well-recognized brands is a great way to stretch those holiday dollars – helping consumers stay within their budgets."

But finding additional money is just one step shoppers can take to make cer-

tain they don't overspend this holiday season. Here are some other ways to save: • When researching gift ideas, check the prices. This can be accomplished easily by online window shopping. For example, if you have three toy ideas for your niece, compare the prices first, and then purchase the toy that is less than the amount you've budgeted for her gift.

• Keep shipping costs in mind. There are many free-shipping deals to be found this holiday season, but if one isn't available for a person on your list, make certain that the shipping cost added to the gift price is less than the amount you budgeted for that person.

• Shop the sales. Your online window shopping ahead of time is a great way to narrow down your list to exactly what you'll buy, keeping yourself within budget. Then watch the holiday sales. If you are able to buy all your items with coupons and discounts, you'll be better off in the budgeting department.

• Don't let sales and discounts encourage you to spend more. If you are able to find a gift item on your list on sale, consider the money saved as exactly that – money saved. Don't be tempted to find another gift item to bring the total of your gift up to your original budgeted amount, because chances are, you'll go over.

With these budgeting tips, and the extra change you find lying around your house converted to a cash voucher or a no-fee eCertificate or gift card at a Coinstar kiosk, you're on your way to a guiltfree January (at least as far as budgeting is concerned). -(BPT)

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December 2013

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Saving Our Selves TOOLS OF THE TRADE: Armed and Dangerous Part Three of a Three-Part Series

By J. T. Myers, M. Ed, MRT Contributing Writer

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n a war, there are multiple casualties to the unprepared and unassuming side. More often than not, it is the less prepared that experience the most losses. The Battlefield here is the educational system. The tools of the trade are what a parent and child both need to be armed with to successfully navigate the landmines that are both seen and unforeseen on the educational gridiron. Basic training for any solider is the foundation for what an individual must acquire to possess the most essential of survival skills.

In education, basic training involves the all-important preparation tools that a student and a parent must use to dodge in and out of the razor sharp system that has pinned the unknowledgeable between a rock and a hard place.

The education that many children today receive in public school, especially those living in urban areas, proves to be an almost overwhelming handicap. The fundamental role of schools should be to help students gain the skills needed for prime success in the future and the assurance of options throughout life. If we accept inferior education for our children from this day forward, in essence we are signing a death warrant for their aspira-

tions. As their parents and first teacher, we are the keys to starting and keeping our children on the right path as well as making sure they stay the course. In order to do this, there are tools that you and your child must not only use, but use effectively. The parental tools are: review and check homework, develop a personal action plan with your child, and encourage outside reading. The tools for the child are as follows: speak standard English; be an active listener; read, read, read; and know the difference between wants and needs.

As parents of black children, there is a responsibility to lead and inspire your children to plow toward and explore the very potential that lies inside them. The first tool that assists you with accomplishing this is to review and check your child’s homework. Although some parents may feel they lack they ability or expertise to help complete this task, do not despair.

There are a number of free websites such as www.funbrain.com, www.abcya.com, and www.chem4kids.com that help you as well as your child’s understanding of common school concepts taught in class.

Therefore, it will take away much of the apprehension that is felt with reviewing and checking your child’s work. Another pivotal tool is developing an action plan with your child. An action plan outlines the goals, the time frame, and the steps your child must take to achieve the mile-

stones that are set forth. It puts a child’s goal in an attainable perspective, while also seeing what is needed to achieve them. The final tool is encouraging outside reading. Reading is the skill that allows windows of opportunities to open.

It is a tool that gives our children the capacity to expand their vocabulary as well as be able to converse about various topics. These tools are sources of strength for children to use to propel them forward in their quest for winning on the battlefield.

A battle ax in combat allows soldiers to strike down impediments in their way. Black children’s battle ax is encompassed in the following tools: speaking standard English; being an active listener; read, read, read; and knowing the difference between wants and needs. Speaking standard English allows anyone and everyone to understand and be able to communicate with you regardless of the locale because the ability to communicate is what transcends what environment a child is from or what financial resources one does or does not possess.

It is the glue that allows black children to be understood and heard despite the circumstances into which they may have been born. The second tool – being an active listener, involves a child being able to carefully listen and be able to decipher what is key information and what is not.

This is detrimental to being successful on the battlefield as a child undertakes more

challenging and rigorous concepts as they move up through various grade levels.

Taking accurate notes and being able to explain them is also an important part of being an active listener. “Read, Read, Read” should be a personal mantra of every child because it is one of the most vital components to change a shallow mind into a powerful cannon of information.

This information can be readily drawn on to debate the ideologies and stereotypes that society or others attempt to place upon them. Lastly, the tool of knowing the difference between wants and needs and how this can affect what financial resources they will acquire and maintain. If a child does not understand this, then the cycle of poverty will continue to be a force to be reckoned with. This is because only through knowing the difference will an individual be able to make an informed decision on what is important and what is not – thus helping to put priorities in order for what should be done both academically and financially.

These simple but powerful tools on the battlefield can not only raise our children’s achievement, but also overwhelmingly shape their lives for the better. Parents and children who undertake this mission and use the tools that are outlined here can raise not only their children success in the classroom and beyond but also, enhance their educational growth for a lifetime.

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December 2013

The Black Professional Association Hosts Annual Toy Drive Guests of the Black Professional Association’s 4th Annual Holiday Social and Toy Drive at the House of Blues enjoyed a night of networking and fellowship. They also donated toys, which will allow for local children to have a more enjoyable Christmas and holiday season.

Participating organizations included: American Association of Blacks in Energy; Greater Houston Black Chamber; Houston Lawyers Association; Mary Susan Moore Medical Society; National Association of Black Accountants; National Association of

Health Services Executives; National Sales Network Houston Chapter; National Society of Black Engineers – HAE Professionals; 100 Black Men of Metropolitan Houston, Inc.; Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals; The Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals; The National Association of African Americans in Human Resources; The Houston Association of Black Journalists; The National Association for Multi-Ethnicity in Communications; The Houston Chapter National Organization of Minority Architects; The National Black MBA Association; Texas Black Expo; and University of Houston Black Alumni Association.

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December 2013

15.

Damian LaCroix Houston’s Via Colori Street Congratulates Students Painting Festival 2013 for Excelling Academically

The two-day Houston Via Colori Street Painting Festival drew a crowd of 15,000 in downtown Houston. Nearly 200 artists covered their canvas of pavement with vibrant, colorful masterpieces, some of them three-dimensional.

This annual chalk art festival fundraiser benefits The Center for Hearing and Speech (CHS). This year’s Via Colori festival will have $400,000 of proceeds toward helping deaf children. CHS has been dedicated to improving the lives of children with hearing loss through clinical, education and support services for more than 65 years. Last year, CHS provided services to more than 5,200 children.

Sixty-six Pleasantville Elementary School students were honored recently by Damian LaCroix, candidate for Texas Senate, for making the Honor Roll. The students were recognized for their excellent work by making straight As, or mostly As and one or two Bs. Education is vital to the youth of the community and it’s a great accomplishment when students make the Honor Roll. LaCroix, of the LaCroix Law Firm, presented the students with certificates of achievement as parents and teachers gathered in the school cafeteria to watch.

“These kids are extremely intelligent and recognition is central to instilling in them the importance of an education and hard work to be successful in any future endeavors they pursue,” said LaCroix. “Being proactive community members, especially when it comes to the education of the children in our community, is a highly valued principle by everyone at our firm.”

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December 2013

Recently Engaged? Critical Move over Carrots: Financial Questions to ask Other Key Nutrients Before you say 'I Do' for Healthy Vision Research shows disconnect between what couples say and do when it comes to insurance conversations before marriage Health

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ngagement season is officially here, with couples around the country saying "yes" to proposals and starting to plan their weddings. In fact, 39 percent of marriage proposals happen between Thanksgiving and Valentine's Day, according to WeddingChannel.com. While immediate discussions with your partner might be focused on the ceremony venue or honeymoon location, there's another important consideration before saying "I do:" having the "finance talk."

Joining your lives through marriage also means joining your lives financially. Having a solid understanding about money, which includes insurance, will help ensure a marriage remains strong long after the honeymoon is over.

However, the reality is that many couples are skipping important conversations. While 71 percent of newly married couples acknowledge the importance of sharing beneficiary designations before marrying, almost half never got around to addressing their life insurance needs prior to the wedding, according to a survey by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). And it's not just young couples who are skipping the conversation – newlywed couples age 55 and older are more likely to have discussed their household entertainment budget than their life insurance coverage.

Talking about combining finances and future insurance needs can be difficult, but it doesn't have to be. Avoid misunderstandings and help ensure your marriage remains strong by having a talk about these matters as soon as possible.

Well before the big day, couples should schedule a pre-wedding discussion to directly address auto, home, health and life insurance needs. Here are some questions to get the conversation started:

Home • Do we plan on renovating our current home?

• If we both own homes, should we rent or sell the other home once we move in together?

Keep in mind, a renovation investment of $5,000 or more could change your home's replacement value and insurance needs. Additionally, switching a property from being a homestead to a rental will require you to carry different insurance.

• Which health plan should we keep?

• Should we each be on the same plan, or maintain individual plans?

• What is the best approach for insuring our children, or stepchildren?

Having health insurance isn't only important for each person in a marriage, but starting in 2014, it is subject to considerable changes in law. When analyzing plans, remember the lowest premium isn't the only consideration. Review all plan elements, including deductibles and co-pays. Most couples have the opportunity to combine plans, but only after they are legally married and not before.

Auto • How's your driving history?

• Do you have any accidents or violations?

Getting married may have a positive effect when you combine your auto insurance plan, but a lower rate is dependent on both you and your spouse's driving records. If you married a speed demon, it might not make sense to combine policies even after you say "I do." Have the talk and do your research.

Life • Do you currently have life insurance?

• How much life insurance is enough?

Now that "I" means "we," couples should evaluate life insurance based on future income potential, the cost of raising children, and outstanding mortgage payments. Remember, in many states, your new spouse does not automatically become your beneficiary on existing insurance policies. Once you tie the knot, you must proactively contact your HR department or other health and life insurance providers to change beneficiaries.

If you're looking for a fun, lighthearted way to approach the sometimes sensitive subjects of money and insurance, sit down with your significant other and review the "Insurance Survival Guide for Newlyweds" available on the NAIC's website, www.insureuonline.org. On the site, you also can play NAIC's new "I Do Adventures" interactive game, which allows players to drive and earn points while learning valuable insurance facts and lessons. If you have additional insurance questions or concerns, contact your state insurance commissioner for unbiased information. - (BPT)

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opeye trumps Bugs Bunny – at least for your eyes. An overwhelming majority of Americans – 89 percent – identify carrots as the best food to eat to ensure healthy eyes but far fewer, 32 percent, know that spinach can help support their vision too, according to a survey by Kelton/DSM Nutritional Products.

Move over carrots and beta-carotene, there are other foods and nutrients that appeal to eye health. Dr. Michael Roizen, author and co-founder of RealAge.com, provides a brief tutorial on the best nutrients for eye health.

Lutein and zeaxanthin – The same survey found that less than half of Americans (41 percent) are familiar with lutein and only 6 percent of Americans are familiar with the nutrient zeaxanthin. Of the 600 known carotenoids, these are the only two that are found in the retina of the eye.

Eat dark leafy greens (like spinach) and eggs and you're on your way to incorporating lutein and zeaxanthin into your daily diet. While there is no established recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for lutein and zeaxanthin, the American Optometric Association recommends 10 mg per day of lutein and 2 mg per day of zeaxanthin.

The recently published AREDS 2 (Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2) was launched to determine whether a combination of key nutrients – including vitamins C and E, lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene and omega-3s – can further reduce the risk of progression from the common dry macular degeneration to advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Secondary analysis showed that the group receiving lutein and zeaxanthin versus those not taking lutein and zeaxanthin, had a 9 percent risk reduction for progression to advanced AMD.

DHA and EPA omega-3s – DHA omega-3, found in fatty fish, fish oil and algae (the fish get it from algae; they don't make it themselves), is a major structural fat in the retina of your eye (and in your brain). It plays an important role in infant visual development, in visual function throughout life, and in eyesight and memory support with aging.

The LUTEGA study, published in JAMA Ophthalmology showed that supplementation of lutein, zeaxanthin, DHA and EPA omega-3s result in increased concentrations of these nutrients in plasma and a significant improvement in the optical density of the macular pigment in 172 individuals with "dry" AMD. Vitamin E – This essential vitamin, found in oils, wheat germ and peanuts, is an antioxidant that supports eye health. It may be difficult to get the recommended daily amount of vitamin E through diet alone – 15 mg/day for anyone older than 14. For example, to get 15 mg of vitamin E, you would need to eat one cup of peanuts that comes with about 827 calories.

You can also get this vitamin in foods such as spinach, salmon and walnuts. But, if you're not eating foods rich in these nutrients on a daily basis, consider adding supplements specifically formulated for eye health. Some of these supplements include Ocuvite, i-Caps and Centrum Specialist Vision. Check with your physician before starting any supplement program.

Roizen's quick tips on how you can help support the health of your eyes include: 1. Avoid smoke, including secondhand smoke; 2. Wear UV protective sunglasses; 3. Take in 10 mg of lutein and 2 mg of zeaxanthin every day; 4. Get 900 mg of DHA omega-3 a day. - (BPT)

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December 2013

17.

Tips for Merry Holiday Season Travel d-mars.com News Provider

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raveling during the holiday season can be fun, but it also offers its fair share of anxious moments, stress and expense.

This year, between Thanksgiving weekend and New Year's Day, an estimated 100 million Americans will travel by car, train or air to visit family or go on vacation, based on forecasts issued in previous years by the American Automobile Association (AAA).

The key to avoiding stress and potential legal issues during the busy travel season is planning, according to FindLaw.com.

Here are some additional tips from FindLaw.com to keep your holiday travel plans safe and stress-free: • Be sure you have all necessary travel documents. A valid ID, such as a stateissued driver's license, is necessary beyond the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint at the airport, and will certainly be essential if you want to rent a car at your destination. If you plan to leave the United States, you must have a passport. According to the State Department, "all minors regardless of age, including newborns and infants, must have their own passport when traveling interna-

tionally by air." FindLaw advises that you apply for your passport at least six weeks before your trip. Also, make photocopies of all travel documents – the front and back of your license, or the information pages of your passport – and store them in a safe place in the event that your wallet or purse is stolen, or your luggage is lost.

• Don't advertise your trip on social media. Posting your travel plans online, such as on social media sites, is an open invitation to thieves. Contact your local law enforcement agency and notify them of your travel arrangements – they can offer you tips, help assess the risk of crimes in your neighborhood or add your property to a "watch list" if you are gone for an extended period.

Also, make sure your neighbors are aware of your travel plans so they can watch for suspicious activity. Save the social sharing for after your trip.

• Pack smart and carefully. Avoid pack-

ing items that cause delays at airport security checkpoints. Ship gifts ahead of time and pack electronics and liquids as directed by the TSA (www.tsa.gov).

For liquids, gels and aerosols, use the 3-1-1 rule – 3.4-ounce bottle or less, by volume; placed in a one quart-sized clear, zip-top plastic bag; one bag per passenger. Carry all prescriptions in their original, clearly labeled bottles.

Carefully follow all TSA rules pertaining to metal objects, including unloaded firearms, which must be declared at time of check-in.

• Check your insurance coverage. If you're going to take an extended trip overseas, consider upgrading your insurance to ensure you have proper coverage. If you rent a car, have copies of your auto insurance card and information on hand. Carefully check your personal policy for rental coverage to make sure you are covered. Consider travel insurance to reduce the financial blow

if you are forced to cancel or interrupt your trip. Read the insurance policy carefully before accepting and only go through a respected insurance provider.

• Check your cell phone plan. Don't assume your cell phone will work in another part of the country or overseas.

Check with your provider to see what kind of coverage you will have at your destination, and if you'll need to upgrade to use your phone. If you travel out of the country, research local calling procedures before you leave home.

Learn, for example, how payments are handled, country calling code, etc.

Avoid the helpless feeling of trying to operate a payphone; operator assistance and automated instructions may come in a language you can't understand.

• Plan for an emergency while you are gone. Make sure your trip is fun and carefree by planning ahead for the worst. Check weather forecasts and set your travel schedule accordingly to avoid potential setbacks. If you are traveling overseas, or in an area you are not familiar with, check the State Department website for updated travel warnings and current credible threats, and determine the location of the U.S. embassy or consulate where you will be travelling. Always be knowledgeable of local laws and customs. - (BPT)

Five Reasons Why Scent is Important for Home Decorating

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ooler temperatures, dwindling daylight that makes you crave a mood boost, and the approach of the holidays – at this time of year, many inspirations prompt people to redecorate.

But while you're breaking out the holiday decorations or looking for just the right shade of yellow to make your kitchen look brighter on short winter days, don't overlook another powerful decorator's trick – scent.

1. Essential oils can make your home more beautiful. In decorating your home you use visual and textural elements but scent-ual elements are just as critical to establishing a beautifully realized ambience. Essential oils offer aromas to match any living scheme you are aiming for. Going for an airy, fresh look? Diffuse eucalyptus, peppermint and lemon. Going for an earthy, natural look? Diffuse vetiver, patchouli and myrrh. Going for a tranquil, relaxed look? Diffuse lavender, geranium and chamomile. Carving out a sacred space?

Diffuse sandalwood, frankincense and neroli.

2. Essential oils are the perfect holiday

home decoration. If you desire an inspired and perfectly appointed holiday home, capture the essences of the holidays with essential oils which are a lot more "real" than a box of tired old holiday decorations. The true scents of the season come from essential oils contained in botanicals such as balsam fir boughs, fresh pine needles, peppermint leaves, cinnamon bark, vanilla beans and clove buds, not a spray can of artificial fragrance. Decorating with pine boughs and candy canes can work to bring those scents into your holiday home, but if you want to boost the effect without turning to synthetic room scents, diffuse pure essential oils. Consider pure, natural products like Aura Cacia's Uplifting Candy Cane room spray that is crafted with real essential

oil of peppermint leaves and extracted essence of Madagascan vanilla beans.

3. Essential oils can make you happy in your home. The post-holiday letdown, colder temperatures and the dwindling daylight of winter will make you crave a mood boost that the sunny scent of essential oils can deliver when the sunlight fails. Essential oils are like happy drops of liquid sunshine. Many people experience a mood dip when days get shorter and there is less natural light entering their homes. Inhaling the wholesome, natural scents of essential oils awaken senses and elevate our emotions. Spritely scents such as peppermint or citrus can help energize a room and invigorate occupants.

4. Essential oils can make your home healthier. With all their harsh and po-

tentially dangerous chemicals, how can home fragrance and cleaning products be labeled as home "care" products?

Essential oils offer an equally effective alternative to freshen and purify your home that is natural and safe. Instead of reaching for a bottle of that blue stuff that smells like – well, window cleaner – try making your own glass cleaner from four tablespoons of vinegar and 12 drops of lemon essential oil. Mix the vinegar and oil in a clean 22-ounce spray bottle, fill with water and use this sunny smelling mixture to clean glass throughout your home.

5. Essential oils can help you sell your home. Baking cookies or burning the ubiquitously cloying artificial vanillascented candle are cliched seller's tricks meant to help you sell your home. Essential oils offer better alternatives of countless aromas that are novel, natural and infinitely more appealing to buyers.

Want a squeaky clean aroma? Diffuse lemon, bergamot orange and lavender.

Want a comforting, homey aroma?

Diffuse allspice, cinnamon, clove and sweet orange. Want an exotic, intriguing aroma to pique a buyer's curiosity?

Diffuse jasmine, mandarin orange and myrrh. - (BPT)

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December 2013

Celebrate the Season with Loved Ones Near and Far d-mars.com News Provider

mas arrival.

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he holiday season is a time for celebrating with loved ones, but family and friends aren't always nearby. Although you may not be able to spend the holidays together in-person, there are still plenty of ways to show out-of-town loved ones you care. With a thoughtful approach, you can find easy ways to spread some holiday cheer, whether your nearest and dearest live across the street, across the country or even across the globe.

Create a holiday plan First, get organized. Make a list of everyone you'd like to celebrate with this season and determine how you'd like to send your holiday wishes – a phone call, a heartfelt card or even a gift. If sending something in the mail, check recommended shipping dates to ensure items arrive in time. While some services can guarantee packages arrive by Christmas if shipped by Dec. 23, it's best to avoid the holiday rush by getting gifts out the door at least a week in advance of the holidays.

If you are sending presents to loved ones in the military overseas, you should get items in the mail by Dec. 10 for a Christ-

Get your gifting in gear Do your shopping early to give yourself plenty of time to mail items to loved ones and make sure they are easily shippable.

Packages that are damageable or perishable may not arrive in the condition you intended if not carefully packaged.

As you prepare to ship, wrap presents with holiday paper, protect them with cushioning material and place them in a sturdy box. Then, seal boxes securely with packaging tape to ensure nothing gets lost. There are even printed options, like EZ Start printed packaging tape from Duck brand, that can make packages stand out and add some festive flair.

Available in seasonal prints like Holiday Ornaments and Peppermint, as well as several other designs perfect for personalizing gifts, these packaging tapes meet all postal regulations, and have Frustration Free technology that ensures you never lose the tape end.

From a large family? Having lots of loved ones out of town can make shipping costs skyrocket. To keep everyone's expenses down, organize a gift exchange in which each family member is assigned one person to send a present. This way, all family members receive a gift, without

incurring huge holiday bills.

Make every minute count To make the most of the holiday season, try to get in the spirit early. A good start to holiday cheer is sending seasonal cards to friends and family. Want something unique? Try making your own personalized holiday greetings using a website like Shutterfly.

You can also build up to the big day by sending care packages for friends and family to enjoy throughout the season.

Make batches of seasonal cookies or send Advent calendars for little ones. Don't forget about loved ones in the Armed Forces. They may need holiday cheer the most, so send them care packages with a bit of home – favorite cookies, festive music and a card with special messages from family and friends.

the gifts you've lovingly selected for them.

Of course, the best way to see your loved ones during the holidays is to visit them. If driving, make sure your vehicle has plenty of gas, antifreeze and fresh oil.

Air travel is fastest but has its own challenges. Make sure to leave extra time between when you need to arrive and when you depart, in case of travel delays due to inclement weather or overbooked flights.

No matter how you travel, make sure to pack some tasty goodies to enjoy along the way.

The holidays are full of hustle and bustle, but with a bit of planning, it's easy to spread cheer to all those you love this season. - (BPT)

See their holiday smiles Even if you can't be physically near loved ones during the holidays, technology has made it possible to at least see them. Use a free video chatting service like Skype on your computer or smartphone to say "hi" to friends and family during the holidays or even open gifts together. These technologies are easy to use and allow you to enjoy the smile on family and friends' faces when they open

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It’s your moment.

No matter your passion, HCC can help turn your dreams into reality.

If you’re just getting started, or starting a new chapter, we have the skills and knowledge that meet your goals and your schedule. HCC has convenient locations andhundreds of programs and degree plans. What are waiting for? Go get it. It’s yours.

Your journey begins here.

visit hccs.edu to learn about our logistics program

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December 2013

19.

City Wide Club of Clubs Tipping TVs to Fire (CWCC) Helps Feed Hazards: Vital Home the Hungry Safety Resolutions for 2014 The City Wide Club of Clubs (CWCC) hosted the 35th Annual Big Super Feast during Thanksgiving. CWCC provides social services to the poor, needy, senior citizens or those in need of a helping hand. On hand to serve a Thanksgiving meal included local politicians Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee and Congressman Al Green.

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ome New Year's resolutions can be difficult to keep, such as exercising more and eating less junk food. But resolutions that involve improving home safety can be just as worthwhile as those that deal with selfimprovement – and often they're much easier to keep.

Boosting home safety in 2014 can be as simple as moving a flat-screen TV from a TV stand to a wall mount, or setting your smart phone to remind you when it's time to change the batteries in smoke detectors. Here are a handful of vital but easy home safety resolutions everyone should undertake for the new year:

1. Wall mount your flat screen TV – or at the very least secure it.

The average flat screen weighs 50 pounds, and packs more than enough heft to injure children and even adults if it tips over on a person. From 2006 to 2011, more than 100,000 injuries resulted from tipped TVs, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). From 2000 to 2011, the CPSC says, 215 people died in accidents involving a falling TV and 96 percent of those fatalities were children younger than 10.

Minimizing the risk of such tragedy is as simple as wall mounting your flat screen TV. Hanging a TV on the wall moves it away from little hands or moments of adult clumsiness, plus it displays one of your biggest tech investments at its best. Homeowners have many options for wall mounting a TV, from mounts that keep the set flush against the wall to ones with a full range of tilt and motion. It's easy to find a mount that will work for your TV. Check out www.sanus.com to use the simple mount-finding tool that will recommend a Sanus mount that's right for your set.

2. Get better acquainted with your smoke detectors.

Most of us move into a house with smoke detectors and don't think about them at all until they start to beep to alert us to a draining battery. Take a look at your detectors. If they're more than eight to 10 years old, you should replace them with newer models, regardless of whether they're battery-powered or hard-wired with a battery backup, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.

If your smoke detectors are still new enough to stay in your home, your next step should be to get on a regular schedule of battery replacement. Use your smart phone's calendar to set a quarterly

reminder to prompt you when it's time to change the battery. If you live in a home with an older furnace, or you use oil or kerosene-fueled space heaters, you should also consider having a carbon monoxide detector near bedrooms.

3. Check out your chimney.

If your home has a wood-burning fireplace, it's imperative to clean your chimney every year to remove the dangerous buildup of creosote that can occur. A gas fireplace likely won't have a chimney, but you should also still have the vent periodically inspected by a professional to ensure everything is in working order.

4.Be wise about water.

It's vital to life in any home, but water can pose serious safety risks – from accidental drowning to scalding from extremely hot bath water – if you don't respect it.

In just three seconds, tap water at 140 degrees Fahrenheit can scald a child, causing third-degree burns serious enough to require hospitalization and skin grafts, the CPSC reports. Scald burns are the most common type of burn among children, and hot tap water accounts for about a quarter of those burns, the commission says.

To prevent scalding, set your hot water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, and always test bath water for temperature before placing a child in it, the CPSC recommends. Never leave a child unattended in a bath tub, not even for a moment - small children can drown in as little as 1 inch of water, according to SafeKids.org. Drain bath water as soon as you remove children from tub, and always close toilet lids. Close bathroom doors to further reduce accidental drowning risks inside the home.

While many New Year's resolutions may fall by the wayside, improving home safety shouldn't be one of them. And with a few easy-to-achieve improvements and lifestyle changes, it's possible to help your family stay safer throughout the new year. -(BPT)

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December 2013

Create Inviting Entrances to Welcome Holiday Guests

2014

Signature Events

INSPIRE, INFORM & EDUCATE

Now Accepting Nominations e-mail your nominations to operations@d-mars.com

Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Nomination Deadline: 1/6/2014 Event Date: 2/27/2014

Top 50 Black Black Attorneys

Nomination Deadline: 3/31/2014 Event Date: 5/29/2014 d-mars.com News Provider

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oliday season guests will soon come knocking at your front door. What's the first impression your home's entryway creates? Is it a warm, friendly welcome, or is the cold hard truth that your home's entryway could use some improvement?

If the latter is true, try these handy holiday entryway-decorating tips from Pella Windows and Doors to create an inviting entryway and make everyone feel right at home.

Tips for creating a positive first impression with an inviting entry into your home: • Clean fingerprints or pet nose prints from doors, sidelights and visible window glass surfaces.

• Appeal to the senses by placing fragrant arrangements nearby or light a candle just before guests arrive. For safety purposes, never leave burning candles unattended.

• Make sure your entryway is well lit.

Place groupings of festive battery-operated lanterns on tables or in corners to illuminate darker areas.

• Designate space for guests to put coats, boots, bags and gifts when they first walk in.

• Before guests arrive, do a walk-through to eliminate potential tripping or fall hazards, especially if you're hosting elderly guests or those with limited vision or mobility.

• Immediately wipe up any spills or melting ice or snow from shoes to help pre-

vent slips or falls.

• Tips for festive outdoor decor to accent your front door: • Hang small wreaths, bells or seasonal signs from doorknobs or door hardware.

• When hanging larger wreaths on the door exterior, use removable, temporary outdoor hooks to help prevent door damage. Magnetic hooks work well on steel doors.

• Add ribbon for a more dramatic look and add an extra pop of color. Try burlap ribbon for a rustic touch, or smooth satin and modern metallic textures for additional holiday sparkle.

• Frame your doorway with a natural or artificial pine garland, accented with pine cones and shatterproof ornaments.

Use temporary outdoor hooks to hang garland around the doorway. Avoid placing nails into windows or doors, which could hamper the product's performance, or even void the manufacturer's warranty.

• Fill planters with festive arrangements of evergreens, silk poinsettias, branches, ornaments and outdoor lights.

• Hang wreaths, ribbons and baubles from outdoor arbors, fences or sconces.

• Consider colored spotlights or solarpowered lights to illuminate your home's exterior doorways and walkways.

Any season can be the right time for replacing an old, cold entry door. For tips on selecting an energy-efficient new storm door or an Energy Star-qualified entry door and transforming your entryway into a warm, inviting space, visit www.pella.com/news. - (BPT)

Top 25 Prime Contractors for Diversity and Supplier Diversity Champions

Nomination Deadline: 5/16/2014 Event Date: 7/31/2014

Top 50 Black Health, Medical & Wellness Professionals

Nomination Deadline: 7/31/2014 Event Date: 9/25/2014

Top 30 Influential Women of Houston

Nomination Deadline: 5/2/2014 Event Date: 10/2014

Top 50 Black Models/ Celebration of the Year

Nomination Deadline: 9/5/2014 Event Date: 11/2014

To advertise in any of the above Signature Events, please e-mail operations@d-mars.com

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21.

Modern Answers to Help Seniors Stay in their Homes Longer d-mars.com News Provider

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etirement marks the start of the golden years, the period when hard-working individuals can put their feet up to relax after a long, successful career.

But for seniors who think they can no longer live in their homes alone, retirement may be a stressful time. They worry they will have to give up the homes they have enjoyed for so many years.

But the good news is options are available to help seniors maintain their independence.

Today, modern technology and everyday conveniences are making it easier for seniors to stay in their homes longer than ever before. These options provide seniors a better quality of life and a means to save money by remaining in their homes instead of moving into a senior home.

If you are a senior or you are the child of a senior and you're looking for options to remain in the home, here are some ideas that may help.

Find a solution for those stairs. The staircases common in split-level and multi-level homes can be difficult for seniors to navigate, limiting access to the other floors of the home. The Stairfriend from Savaria, is a stairlift specifically designed

for the curved or turning staircases featured in many modern homes. The Stairfriend offers riders a smooth, comfortable and reliable means of reaching the multiple levels of the home without putting stress on a person's joints. Best of all, the Stairfriend can be customized to any staircase in any home.

• Reinvent the bathroom. Bathrooms can be dangerous for people of any age, as water can lead to slippery surfaces. For seniors w h o m a y struggle with balance or have trouble climbing in and out of the t u b , navigating the bathroom can be more difficult. Replacing the existing tub with a walk-in tub will make baths a safe and enjoyable experience once again. Installing a hand-railing on the shower wall also adds greater stability.

• Technology offers a friendly reminder.

Many seniors take several medications each day and sometimes mistakes are made or a dosage is missed. An electronic pill box can help seniors stay on track.

Pills can be sorted by the day of the week as well as morning, afternoon, evening and bedtime periods. In addition, an LED light will glow beneath the proper container when it is medication time.

The pill box can also be programmed to send an alarm, email or text message whenever a medication period is missed.

Sm a r t phone apps that allow seniors to keep track of their medication periods can also help to avoid confusion.

• Organize your cupboards. Decreased vision or memory loss can lead many seniors to make mistakes when it comes to food preparation. This can be prevented by storing certain foods in the same location every time to avoid con-

fusion.

• Make washing the dishes easier. Dishwashers have made cleaning up after a meal easier than ever but for many seniors, leaning over to load the dishes can be difficult. Dish drawers offer two, smaller dishwashers stacked on top of the other, offering seniors an easy-toreach alternative.

• Help is just a phone call away. Many seniors feel they must move into a senior home when they can no longer drive and run errands. However, many services exist today that can lend a helping hand. Professional services are available to provide comfort and companionship, meal preparation, personal care and help with light housekeeping, transportation and medication as needed. Many of these companies can be researched on the Internet.

Technological advances and modern conveniences have empowered today's seniors with more options to stay in their homes than any generation before. The key is to recognize these opportunities and make the most of them. You can learn more about how the Stairfriend makes traveling up and down stairs a breeze and see how it can be customized for your home by visiting savaria.com and watching their informational video. - (BPT)

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December 2013

Healthy Fundraising: Tru Balance Water Teams with Local School to Offer Alkaline Water

By Jamie Eisenman Contributing Writer

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his quote comes after a record $4 billion budget cut to the Texas school system in 2011. Anyone can read about these budget cuts in the newspaper and understand how it will affect our children’s education. But at a recent d-mars.com event, I received a firsthand wakeup call by Coach Olajuwon Mu-

hammad from Woodson Academy, which is located in Third Ward.

We met Coach Muhammad at the dmars.com Top 25 Prime Contractors for Diversity and Supplier Diversity Champions Luncheon in which we talked at length about the struggles his students face on a daily basis due to underfunding at his school. Coach Muhammad invited me and Ken Hopkins, the owner of Tru Balance Water, to Woodson Academy to meet his students and attend a night of basketball games. After meeting these

students and seeing how hard they work just to be able to participate in programs that were taken for granted back when we were kids, Ken and I knew we had to do something.

Tru Balance Water offers a product that is designed to balance the human body’s pH level. While tap water is filled with harmful chemicals intended to bring natural water from polluted and acidic places, Tru Balance Water offers alkaline water which has all harmful pollution and chemicals removed from the drinking water before putting it through an “Alkalinizing” filter process that naturally adds electrolytes and antioxidants while raising the pH of the water to 9.5 (all natural fruits and vegetables are considered alkaline). This pH level allows the body to counteract the acidity ingested in many

tose acid that builds up in athletes’ bodies which will allow for the athletes to experience less soreness and allow for quicker recovery.”

Tru Balance is donating 40% of all one-gallon alkaline water sales generated through Woodson Academy’s community to benefit the school. While we can all name several fundraisers that involve candy, coupon books, or many other items that are unhealthy or not used in the household, most do not know these programs have an upfront cost. This inventive program is designed to benefit the schools, not bust their budgets.

“Our goal is to offer a healthy alternative to fundraising,” said Ken Hopkins, president of Tru Balance Water.

The alkaline technology is considered

foods in the current diet. For example, the pH level of soda and coffee is two to three or highly acidic. The human body is comprised of more than 70 percent liquid. Replenishing bodily fluids with acidic beverages is not a healthy choice.

Ingesting alkaline water essentially flushes toxins from the body and allows it to operate at a higher capacity.

“Alkaline water is good for athletes, the elderly and sick people. [Woodson] wanted to collaborate with Tru Balance Water to expose this brand of water to the community as well as allow us to do a fundraiser,” said Coach Muhammad.

“This water will help break down the lac-

new to the U.S. market, but has been offered overseas for decades in stores and hospitals. What is revolutionary is the idea to offer it at a fair price to the Houston community while giving back almost half of the proceeds back to our youth.

“This is an effort to bridge the financial gap from a Title I school as well as an opportunity to allow student athletes the exposure and knowledge of total well being through community-building projects,” said Coach Muhammad. To get involved in this fundraising effort and order Tru Balance Water through this program, please call 713-783-7744.

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December 2013

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Give Back While Give Back this Moving from One Holiday Season Community to Another d-mars.com News Provider

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he holidays are known for eliciting cheer, thanks and a sense of community as families come together to share some of their most treasured traditions, whether that’s gathering for a special meal, organizing an activity or finding a way to give back to those less fortunate. Last year, Americans gave $316 billion to charity according to Giving USA, but it’s not just financial donations needed. Many organizations depend on donations of time and kindness to get by.

No matter what you choose to donate, giving back feels good. Consider all the different ways you can expand your charitable giving this holiday season: • Make a financial donation as a gift – Consider making a donation to a charity of choice in the name of the person who has everything. Many organizations will provide you with a thank you card recognizing the donation, which you can then put under the tree for the holiday celebration.

d-mars.com News Provider

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oving from one home, one city and even one state to another is a great opportunity to clean house and start fresh. Instead of packing all belongings – even those that haven't been used in years – moving gives families a chance to reduce their material goods so that what ends up being unpacked in the new house is immediately used.

While purging their belongings, families should consider giving back to their community, both as a nice way to say goodbye and to make the move much easier. Some ways to give back while moving include: • Donate unneeded belongings to organizations that can put them to good use. If you have gently used furniture, clothing, children's toys, books or even kitchen utensils that you won't need in your new home, many organizations will take these items to help victims of natural disasters, or to sell to help financially support other needs of the organization. If you aren't able to find an organization that will accept donated items, consider holding a yard sale and donating the cash to a local charity.

When advertising the garage sale, be sure to advertise the charity you're supporting, and ask shoppers if they'd like to also contribute to the charity.

• Make your donations go further. When donating to an organization, businesses will often match a donation. To help

• Choose gifts that give back – The holidays are a time when many companies make donations to charities. One such company is Hickory Farms, which will donate $5 to Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry campaign for every Party Planner Gift Box sold this holiday season, up to $500,000.

• Organize a drive – Food banks and clothing charities often struggle with providing enough sustainable food and warm clothing for those in need during the winter months. Have your family and friends ask coworkers and neighbors about donating to your local food bank or clothing charity. Send an announcement via email or post signs on doors a week in advance of your drive. This gives people a chance to collect additional items to be donated.

The holiday season is a time with endless opportunities to give back, whether it’s to an organization you’ve long been affiliated with or to a new cause that you’re just learning about. Giving back to others will help enhance all the emotions and warm feelings the holiday season is meant to bring. - (BPT)

you in giving back during your move, Penske Truck Rental is raising funds to help the Paralyzed Veterans of America and its Mission: ABLE campaign. This campaign ensures veterans with disabilities get the care, benefits and job opportunities they've earned and deserve, said U.S. Army veteran Bill Lawson, national president of the organization.

Penske Truck Rental customers renting a truck can donate $1 to support Mission: ABLE. Penske will match each donation made by Memorial Day, 2014.

• Use recyclable containers for packing.

Contact your local grocery store or restaurant and ask if you can help them recycle their boxes by using them for packing. This gives these boxes one additional use prior to disposal, helping out your community and the environment.

• Hire your packing help from a local youth group or nonprofit organization.

Call up local youth organizations and offer to pay a salary for young workers to help you load the moving truck with your packed belongings. Be sure to mark boxes carefully if they are heavy or contain fragile items, and also have a family member in charge of directing how boxes and furniture will be loaded into the truck. This is a great way to help support a local organization while also helping you to move.

As you plan your move, consider these ways you can give back, both in your current community and the new community.

It will help make the transition smoother and help you to embrace and learn more about the new community. - (BPT)

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December 2013

Experience Our World of Marketing, Media and Communication

December 2013

Learn How You Can Support a Friend who is Being Abused

d-mars.com News Provider

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hen someone you love is being emotionally or physically abused by her partner, it can be difficult to know the best way to show support without appearing judgmental or invasive.

But statistics show that violence typically continues and escalates if no one takes action to stop it. Here are some simple tips and resources to help you start a conversation that could lead to positive changes.

• Say something and lend a listening ear.

Make sure that you are in a private location where you won't be distracted or interrupted. Explain what led to your concerns. Don't force the issue but allow your friend to confide in you at her own pace. Avoid placing blame on your friend and let her know you want to help.

• Understand that things are complicated. You might wonder why your friend still cares for her abuser and finds it hard to leave. Often, abusers show remorse for violence after it happens and promises to change. Your friend may hope that things will improve. Abusive relationships can involve some good times along with the bad, which makes it more difficult to leave.

• Offer specific ways to help. Little things can make a big difference. Perhaps you can provide transportation when needed or help with childcare. Volunteer to store copies of important paperwork or even an extra set of clothes at your place in case your friend needs to leave quickly.

• Create a safety plan. Together, discuss a place to go in case of emergency and prepare an escape kit which can be easily hidden. This may include a train or bus pass, prepaid cell phone with minutes, gift cards for grocery stores, etc.

• Support your friend in the healing process. Your friend has probably been told by her abuser that she's a bad person in one way or another. Help boost her

self-confidence by discussing skills and strengths. To help with physical healing, encourage her to look into free resources like Give Back A Smile (GBAS), a unique program which enables volunteer dentists and laboratory technicians throughout the United States to restore broken and damaged teeth of survivors of intimate partner violence.

Established by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry in 1999, the Give Back a Smile program celebrates its 15th anniversary of restoring smiles for domestic abuse survivors throughout the nation. In recognition of abuse victims and to spread the word about this program to prospective patients, the AACD Charitable Foundation has commissioned a love story about new beginnings written by popular Harlequin romance author Isabel Sharpe. The e-novella entitled "For One of Your Smiles" tells the story of a young woman who escapes her abuser and learns to overcome insecurities and fear to love again. Details about the Give Back a Smile program are featured at the end of the book, providing an easy way to share program information with a friend in need. This e-book is available for 99 cents downloadable via Amazon Kindle and at www.AACD.com. Book proceeds go to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry Charitable Foundation's Give Back a Smile program.

• Guide your friend to community resources. Gather information on local women's and family shelters and domestic violence hotlines. If your friend asks for advice on what she should do, let her know that she's not alone and that there are people available to help.

Encourage her to seek the confidential assistance of dating/domestic violence victim advocates.

There are no simple or quick solutions for helping a loved one who is involved in an abusive relationship. But offering meaningful support whether by listening, sharing resources, or opening your home as a safe haven, may provide the encouragement she needs to escape a violent situation and start a new chapter in her life. - (BPT)

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December 2013

HE HEARD MY CRY FELLOWSHIP

he heard my cry

Mission Statement HHMCF is dedicated to following the Word of God, feeding the flock the Word of God and fellowshipping with the saints. That the lost might be saved, the saved might be fed and equipped to edify the body of Christ.

Faith-Filled

Pastor Claude Cummings, Wife Joaquina Cummings & Daughter Jillian I love the Lord, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy.

Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live.

-Psalm 116: 1-2

Bible-Based

Family-Friendly

Sunday Morning Worship

Starts at 9:00 AM at the Communication Workers of America Building

1730 Jefferson St., Houston, Tx 77003

Phone: 713.581.0852 | Email: Info@hhmcf.com | www.hhmcf.com |

He Heard My Cry

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