VMH Magazine - Issue 35

VMH

Fashion that 'attracts increasingly priceand environmentally conscious customers'.

LIFESTYLE. BUSINESS . ENTERTAINMENT

"The future of menswear is access, not ownership.”

Anya Cheng

$2.3 Million Pre-Seed

Taelor(ed) for SustainableConscious Fashion Founder's

ANYA CHENG PHOEBE TAN &

VMHMAGAZINE.COM

H A N D C R A F T E D E L E G A N C E

M I N I M A L

C A P T I V A T I N G Adorn yourself with handcrafted pieces of art for your special day.

COMING SOON

As you grow, let go.

Editor’s Note Whether you're entering into a new partnership, a new job, or business expansion through technology, metaverse or AI, you’re taking a chance.

There are various ways to help make sound decisions. When it comes to relationshipss, take the time to learn and accept who people are instead of denying them and trying to change them. Doing so gives you a good sense of how best to allocate your time, or if a person is a good match. Get out of your own way. It’s important that we learn when it’s time to let go, move on and open ourselves up to new opportunities. This, however, is easier said than done. But, if you want to live your greatest life and unleash your power, you have to allow yourself the freedom to grow.

Vikki Jones For many years I worked on a publication that I felt would be an exceptional success. I believed it would aid in the discovery of ‘unseen’ talent, voices and products. After pulling countless all-nighters, reaching the ‘top’ and actually growing the magazine, there

came

a

point

where

everything

seemed to slow down. Pay attention to this stillness; it’s talking to you. It is letting you know that it’s time to re-evaluate, to change lanes and go in a different direction.

Editor-in-Chief

CONTENTS 04

06

A professional baker and cake designer for 26 years, Houston's, Ché René Macarons and More offers a variety of original flavors to explore.

Listen in to her story on Spotify or shop these delectable French treats!

If you’re planning a trip this summer, learn how to incorporate some smart spending strategies with tips from financial experts.

12

24

Next, think of a compelling feature for your cover story. This will be what draws your audience in. Make sure that you have accompanying visual content that immediately catches the eye. Include photos, illustrations, and other graphics to match.

Virtual assistants are the unsung heroes of the work-from-home era, helping executives, business owners, and other professionals to stay efficient and focused on the core business amid a very unpredictable pandemic environment. Here are the top virtual assistant skills that businesses need to keep an eye on when hiring.

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Byron Allen Gordon Smith NAB Show 2022

Summer Travel Tips

Virtual Assistant Skills to Consider

VMH magazine is your resource for business, entertainment, and lifestyle content.

ENTREPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT

A professional baker and cake designer for 26 years, Houston's, Ché René Macarons and More offers a variety of original flavors to explore. Made fresh daily with almond flour which makes all their macarons gluten-free. In this session the the founder shares the secret and inspiration for her flavors, story behind the business and expansion. Signature Flavors include: Southern Peach Cobbler, French Vanilla, Chocolate Ganaché, Kravin' Keylime, Lavish Lemon, Sea-Salted Caramel

FASHION FASHION FASHION Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged.

COMING SOON

UNIQUE BOUTIQUE

T R A V E L E S S E N T I A L S

Work Travel quality Functionality @ S H O P V I K K I J O N E S

5 TIPS TO STRETCH YOUR SUMMER TRAVEL BUDGET Many of the nation’s leading travel experts are predicting a surge in travel this summer. It’s no surprise that after months of restrictions, Americans are ready to set out on their next adventures. While popular destinations are likely to be open and welcoming visitors, the uptick in traffic combined with higher prices may translate into more expensive travel.

If you’re planning a trip this summer, learn how to incorporate some smart spending strategies with these tips from the financial experts at Credit One Bank: Be flexible on travel dates and destinations. Unless your travel is tied to a specific event or occasion, try searching with flexible dates to find the best available rates. Similarly, if you know you want to get away but you’re not particular about where, try looking for destinations offering special promotions or deals for travel during certain timeframes.

Consider trip interruption and cancellation policies.

Planning for the unexpected can help protect you if a trip needs to end early or be canceled altogether. Unless you have travel insurance, you’re likely to lose money on nonrefundable expenses such as flights, event tickets or tours.

However, some travel companies or your credit card provider may cover reimbursement for certain prepaid expenses. Look into what options are available before you travel to avoid extra headaches when the unexpected occurs during a trip.

Get rewarded no matter how you travel. Using your credit card rewards to offset travel costs is a smart strategy, but not everyone wants or needs perks like miles or points that are exclusive to use with a single travel partner. With point-based travel reward cards, like the Credit One Bank Wander Card, the more places you visit, the more rewards you reap along the way that can be redeemed for future experiences, statement credits, gift cards and more.

That means no matter what hotel chain you stay at, car rental agency you select or airline you fly with – or as you

mix and match to get the best deals – everyday adventurers have opportunities to earn up to five times the rewards points for doing things they love.el partner.

Come up with a realistic budget. When you’re planning a trip, it’s easy to focus on the big-ticket expenses like airfare and hotel rooms. The reality is, when you add up all the smaller expenses, you may spend significantly more than you realize. To plan a more accurate budget, be sure you account for expenses like dining out at restaurants, paying for fuel at the pump and tickets to attractions and events.

Don’t forget fees that add up, too, like tips for housekeeping, checked bags, Wi-Fi access, parking and souvenirs.

Research and book free and discounted attractions.

Some attractions offer discounts for purchasing tickets in advance online, age-based discounts or free admission at certain times or dates, so be sure to look into any attractions you hope to visit ahead of time. If you’re a travel rewards credit card holder, start your search by looking into your redemption options. If your card offers flexible options by booking through a specific partner site or dedicated travel platform, you might be able to redeem points or make your spending dollars go further toward earning more rewards for the cost of experiences, entertainment and other expenses while you travel.

Find more ways to make your money work for you at CreditOneBank.com/articles. Photo courtesy of Getty Images

TRAVEL W H E R E

Y O U R

J O U R N E Y

V I K K I J O N E S . C O M

B E G I N S

Teen girls need a supportive space to express themselves, develop their confidence and explore their creative voice. They are our future, and it benefits us all to invest in their success.”

— Keren Taylor, Executive Director and Founder of WriteGirl

WriteGirl, the nationally-recognized girls writing and mentoring organization, honors internationally acclaimed author Margaret Atwood (The Handmaid’s Tale) at its annual WriteGirl Bold Ink Awards. In addition, the LAbased organization will be honoring NBC4’s award-winning reporter Beverly White, and groundbreaking TV writer, producer and director Mara Brock Akil. WriteGirl alum Amanda Gorman, who performed her poetry at the Biden-Harris Inauguration last year, will provide a special message at the 2022 Bold Ink Awards.

WRITEGIRL HONORS ACCLAIMED AUTHOR MARGARET ATWOOD AND OTHER OUTSTANDING WOMEN WRITERS AT BOLD INK AWARDS

The live online celebration will be co-hosted by Clara Sera, founding WriteGirl volunteer and screenwriter (Blended, Smallfoot). Learn more at www.writegirl.org.

Margaret Atwood, whose work has been published in more than 45 countries, is the author of more than 50 books of fiction, poetry, critical essays and graphic novels. In addition to The Handmaid’s Tale, now an award-winning TV series, her novels include Cat’s Eye, short-listed for the 1989 Booker Prize; Alias Grace, which won the Giller Prize in Canada and the Premio Mondello in Italy, and The Blind Assassin, winner of the 2000 Booker Prize. She is the recipient of numerous awards, including the PEN Center USA Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Los Angeles Times Innovator’s Award, which was also awarded to Taylor in 2020.

Margaret Atwood, whose work has been published in more than 45 countries, is the author of more than 50 books of fiction, poetry, critical essays and graphic novels. Her books includes The Handmaid’s Tale, now an award-winning TV series.

NBC’s White is an accomplished journalist with nearly 40 years experience. She has covered hundreds of significant local and national stories and has been recognized by the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) Chuck Stone Lifetime Achievement Award.

NBC’s White is an accomplished journalist with nearly 40 years experience. She has covered hundreds of significant local, regional and national stories and has been recognized by the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) Chuck Stone Lifetime Achievement Award and the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors for her distinguished career. Beverly White has been a guest mentor at many WriteGirl writing workshops for teens, helping to inspire the next generation of journalists.

Brock Akil has written and produced nearly 400 episodes of television, including her beloved series Girlfriends, a witty and honest exploration of the multi-faceted nature of Black womanhood, and its spin-off, The Game, which found new life at BET and Netflix, and other scripted series. She has been honored with the prestigious Brandon Tartikoff Legacy Award by NATPE, was inducted into her alma mater Northwestern University’s Medill Hall of Achievement and received the distinguished Northwestern Alumni Medal, and been named to The Hollywood Reporter’s "Women in Entertainment Power 100" multiple times.

WriteGirl serves more than 500 teens annually, mainly from high-density neighborhoods. Since its formation in 2001, one hundred percent of WriteGirl’s graduating seniors have entered college, many on full or partial scholarships and many as the first in their family to do so. WriteGirl offers online workshops led by acclaimed women writers with genres spanning from poetry and songwriting to journalism and screenwriting.

WriteGirl provides a counterbalance to the enormous challenges teen girls face, including depression, pregnancy, incarceration and violence in their communities. It strives to provide every girl with a mentor who can help her ultimately discover her voice

Mara Brock Akil has written and produced nearly 400 episodes of television, including her beloved series Girlfriends, and its spin-off, The Game. She has been honored with the prestigious Brandon Tartikoff Legacy Award by NATPE.

and true aspirations. WriteGirl envisions a world where all teens live, write, and speak boldly as they become inspiring, transformative leaders, driven to effect positive change in their communities. It has been the mission of WriteGirl to raise up the voices of underrepresented and/or vulnerable youth, including Black, Latinx, Asian/Pacific Islander, Indigenous, nonbinary, LGBTQIA youth, anyone with disabilities, and many others who are part of the community WriteGirl serves.

For WriteGirl, adapting all programming online due to the pandemic has allowed WriteGirl to expand to reach girls across the U.S. and internationally, with writing programs now serving groups of teens in Nevada, Wisconsin, Tajikistan and Afghanistan. One-on-one writing mentors have been matched with teens in Nigeria, Uruguay, Poland and many other countries.

First held in 2006, the WriteGirl Bold Ink Awards is an uplifting event and benefit for WriteGirl that celebrates outstanding women writers and raises vital funds for WriteGirl creative writing programs.

WriteGirl is seeking to raise critical funding for its workshops, one-on-one mentoring and college application assistance during these challenging times to both sustain current WriteGirl programs and support the organization’s growth as it expands to reach even more teens.

To learn more about WriteGirl, please visit the WriteGirl website.

Byron Allen Media Mogul

Chairman and CEO Byron Allen founded Allen Media Group/Entertainment Studios in 1993.

Headquartered in Los Angeles, it has offices in New York, Chicago, Atlanta, and Charleston, SC. Allen Media Group owns 36 ABC-NBCCBS-FOX network affiliate broadcast television stations in 21 U.S. markets and twelve 24-hour HD television networks serving nearly 180 million subscribers.

NAB SHOW 2022 HIGHLIGHT PHOTO CREDITS: VIKKI JONES

Allen, the founder, chairman and CEO of Allen Media Group / Entertainment Studios, which purchased THE WEATHER CHANNEL in 2018, and Smith, the former president and CEO of NAB, will discuss the steps in their professional careers that helped them achieve success during the NAB Show Executive Leadership Series session. Allen and Smith will also address their respective roles as advocates and leaders in the broadcast industry and the enduring value of local television in an everchanging marketplace.

After starting his career as a comedian, Allen founded his media company in 1993, which now owns and operates 27 television stations in 21 markets, as well as 12 24-hour HD television networks and several streaming OTT/Mobile APPS including LocalNow. Allen also partnered with Sinclair Broadcast Group in 2019 to acquire 21 Regional Sports Networks (RSNs).

Allen’s Entertainment Studios produces and distributes Emmy Award-winning and nominated shows, as well as sells advertising for 67 broadcast and cable television programs. The company is also the first African-American owned multiplatform media studio producing and distributing wide-release motion pictures and content for all platforms and owns TheGrio, a digital, video-centric news platform devoted to providing compelling entertainment, news and lifestyle content for African-Americans.

CHOOSE YOUR WAY

The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America’s broadcasters. NAB advances radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs.

Through advocacy, education and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities, strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital age. Learn more at www.nab.org.

Curtis LeGeyt

Gordon Smith

Current President & CEO of the National Association of Broadcasters

NAB Special Advisor & Former NAB President/CEO Gordon Smith, special advisor to the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), along with Byron Allen engaged in a candid conversation about their unique careers and roles in the broadcast industry during a fireside chat on the Main Stage of NAB Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. Smith was NAB’s president and CEO from November 2009 to the end of 2021, when he transitioned into a senior advisor role. He previously served two terms as U.S. senator representing Oregon. He received NAB’s highest honor, the Distinguished Service Award, at the 2022 NAB Show.

Together, these two industry leaders bring more than 90 years of broadcasting and media experience to this in-depth NAB Show Executive Leadership Series event. Their insights and opinions speak to every level of the broadcasting business, and will give valuable points of view and examples that NAB Show attendees can utilize as the marketplace grows and evolves in new directions.

As you prepare your mind and body for the warmer months, you may be interested in detoxification as a way of cleansing and eliminating toxins. A typical detoxification period may include fasting and a strict diet combined with light, appropriate exercise.

According to Ayurvedic practices, an ancient Indian science focused on wholebody healing and health optimization, it may be beneficial to detoxify. Consider these steps toward detoxification from the experts at Buddha Teas: Aim for a Healthy Lifestyle Before considering the specifics of daily routines and phases of detoxification, it’s important to focus your lifestyle around healthy practices. For example, aim to minimize stress by participating in uplifting activities such as mindful walking, meditation, spending time in nature or other hobbies that put you at ease. Remember to rest both your mind and body, and get an appropriate amount of sleep each night.

Preparation Phase Take 3-7 days to prepare your body for detoxification. The start of your journey should involve the elimination or drastic reduction of caffeine, tobacco, alcohol and recreational drugs.

5 Steps to Detoxify Your Body Naturally Active Cleansing Phase During the 7-14-day active phase, it’s important to create and follow a singular diet of kitchari, which consists of mung beans, basmati rice, spices and vegetables. As a complete protein that’s easy to digest, kitchari helps reset your digestive system while restoring digestive fire and supporting the elimination of toxins. If you’re looking for a place to start, consider trying a few different recipes online, or purchase from a natural foods store.

If kitchari isn’t right for you, opt for oatmeal in the morning and steamed vegetables or vegetable soup with basmati rice for lunch and dinner. Be conscious of portion control; eat enough for satisfaction without overeating. Aim to finish your evening meal 2-4 hours before sunset.

Another important aspect of the active phase is liquid intake. Drink hot water with lemon juice in the morning.

Throughout the day, consider a hot tea with bitter herbs like Buddha Teas’ Detox Dharma Blend. This delicious option consists of carefully chosen herbs and spices that come together to help eliminate toxins. Other effective hot teas include nettle leaf, dandelion root and dandelion leaf.

Create a Morning Routine To stay on track during the active phase, it is helpful to create routines, starting with your morning wake-up call. After brushing your teeth and other daily to-dos, try relaxing techniques like sipping 8-16 ounces of hot water with lemon juice, self-massaging, taking a warm or hot shower or bath, gently exercising and combining these activities with an appropriate active phase morning meal.

Create an Evening Routine Proper relaxation prior to bedtime can help encourage restful sleep. Avoid watching TV about one hour before bedtime and consider massaging your feet with herbal oil for a few minutes before rinsing with cool water. Drink a peaceful beverage like a milk substitute mixed with Buddha Teas’ Golden Milk, which is developed from an Ayurvedic recipe that provides satisfaction and comfort while supporting the body and mind.

As your active phase comes to a close, slowly reintroduce foods like dairy, wheat, soy, meat and fish. Continue activities like gentle yoga, walking, tai chi and qi gong then rejuvenate your body with hot beverages like turmeric ginger tea, chaga tea and mushroom tea.

Learn more about detoxification and its benefits at www.BuddhaTeas.com.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

WEST PALM BEACH, FL

As pandemic restrictions ease, friends, neighbors and family’s eagerly look for enjoyable venues to gather, laugh and catch up. West Palm Beach, Florida is known for fun and sun and is a top spot for such moments.

But, a neat surprise folded within the community is a big boom, called Sun Fest.

With national headliners such as Brett Young, Lil Wayne, Melissa Etheridge, Sam Hunt, along with strong support for local talent Sun Fest has remained true to its title for 40 year history. According the website, SunFest began in 1983 by a group of local volunteers who wanted to create a unique community celebration. They hoped the festival would

become a signature event for the area and that it would extend the tourist season, thus improving the local economy. The festival has grown from attracting 135,000 attendees in 1984 to 315,000 people in 1999. During its five days in 1997, it generated an economic impact of $16 million, and room revenue of $1 million.

SunFest is the largest waterfront music and art festival in Florida and attracts more than 100,000 visitors.

Photo Credits; Vikki Jones

THE BACKSTORY NATE LLORANDO

ENTREPRENEUR BEHIND CELEBRITY AND ATHLETE BRANDS Nate Llorando saw entrepreneurship as a way out of poverty.

Today, the Filipino-American entrepreneur coaches professional athletes, influencers, and Hollywood celebrities on how to start and run their own businesses and brands.

"IT’S REWARDING TO BE ABLE TO LEND A HELPING HAND AND SHARE MY KNOWLEDGE AND RESOURCES. THEY WIN, I WIN. IT’S THAT SIMPLE.”

One of four brothers growing up in Northern California in a modest home and converted garage, Nate witnessed his parents’ hardship while recognizing opportunities. His immediate family of six lived downstairs while his mom’s cousins lived upstairs. The home was so compacted that in order for his parents to use the bathroom, they had to go through the children’s bedroom where Nate shared with his three brothers.

Fast forward to 2019, Nate founded Looptify, a high-profile merchandise marketplace platform for Hollywood celebrities like Dave Chappelle and Shaunie O’Neal, and professional athletes such as Kyle Kuzma and Manny Pacquiao. interviewees to get the most accurate information.

Nate and his company offer a turnkey solution to help celebrities, digital influencers, and athletes to start their merchandise to grow their branded businesses.

“I’ve witnessed my parents’ struggle and seen my friends’ desire to have a better life” states CEO Nate Llorando. “I then went on to witness successful athlete friends wanting to start their own brands but don’t know where and how to start. It’s rewarding to be able to lend a helping hand and share my knowledge and resources. They win, I win. It’s that simple.”

Looptify has not only endured the pandemic, they grow despite it.

Nate’s partnership with Dave Chappelle sold close to 1 million units of signature Chappelle Masks.

Even though Lootify had to shut down business for four months at the start of the pandemic, they returned stronger than ever growing from 4 employees to 41 in the past two years.

The direct-to-fans marketplace tripled 2020's celebrity merchandise sales in 2021 from $1,600,000 to $4,900,000. (continued on page 24)

"If you love something, wear it all the time... Find things that suit you.

That's how you look extraordinary."

– Vivienne Westwood

'

showcase your personality through your style

AI &

FA

TAELOR Taelor first launched its service to a group of pilot customers in 2021.

With this new financing, Taelor will be able to open its service to customers who are currently on the waitlist, as well as diversify its style offerings, expand operations, and continue to refine its styling algorithms.

“The future of menswear is access, not ownership,” said Anya Cheng, Taelor’s founder and CEO, who was a former product lead at Meta who

CU

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helped create Facebook Shopping and previously held digital innovation leadership positions at eBay, Target, McDonald’s and Sears. “Our mission is to help people to look good, achieve goals and help save the environment.”

Phoebe Tan, Taelor’s other founder and COO, who previously served as an executive of a company that was an operations partner with Amazon Go and Starbucks, agrees that Taelor will appeal to today’s young

Above Phoebe Tan and Anya Cheng Photo Credit: Chris Lee

ED

N

Taelor is a Silicon Valley-based menswear clothing rental subscription service. The mission is to help people feel confident so that they can achieve their life and career goals while saving mindspace and playing a part in saving the environment.

Inspiration:

“Don't be afraid to take baby steps to achieve your goals. It's part of the journey of achieving your dream.”

Anya Cheng Taelor’s Founder & CEO

men. “The younger generation is a lot more fashion conscious because of social media, and they also support sustainability and buying second-hand clothes. That’s why Taelor is really the perfect solution for many young men who want to look good but own less,” she said.

When customers first sign up at Taelor, they fill out a style questionnaire and then receive a personal consultation with one of Taelor’s stylists. Then the stylists, along with artificial intelligence, select clothes for the customers based on their personal preferences. The clothes are shipped directly to customers, who can either wear them for weeks and return them or purchase them for up to 70% off the regular retail price. Customers then receive another box of clothes.

For a flat monthly fee of $88 per month, customers get up to two boxes of clothes per month, which include four items in each box, including dress shirts, jackets, polo shirts, henley shirts and more. Taelor plans to add pants to its offerings soon. Dry cleaning and shipping is free both ways — making the process of renting and returning clothing effortless.

In addition to serving individual customers, Taelor plans to work with corporations to offer its subscription service as a perk or gift for employees and clients, as well as leverage its unique data to help brands and retailers predict trends and reduce unsold inventory.

“Taelor is like a launching pad for clothing brands,” Cheng said. “As a SaaS (software as a service) data company, we help brands and retailers test products, find new customers, and discover consumers’ true preferences.”

Ling said he was motivated to invest in Taelor because of its commitment to sustainability and its unique approach to helping fashion brands gain market insights. “Taelor saves time and money for consumers, customizing the experience for each consumer through AI, with a thoughtful focus on sustainability and re-use,” Ling said.

“I love fashion since I was a little kid. So when I was young I would help dress my siblings, my friends...I would compliments, 'you are so stylish'. I thought I would become a fashion designer. But growing up it was a big no, so I pursued finance. My vision has become bigger.

I want to solve the problem in fashion, in the sense of the environmental impact."

Phoebe Tan Taelor’s CoFounder & COO

Taelor and Cheng have already received lots of attention and recognition. The company won first place at legendary investor Tim Draper’s startup competition, Draper Demo Day; was chosen as a select team by the 500 Global (500 Startups) accelerator’s Taiwan Tech Arena Silicon Valley partnership program; received a 30 Under 40 Rising Star Entrepreneur Award; was named the west coast regional champion in the Alumni New Venture Challenge, the University of Chicago’s Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation startup competition; and was chosen as a SPARK Accel accelerator selected team, where Kevin Lin, co-founder of Twitch, and Patrick Lee, cofounder of Rotten Tomatoes, were their mentors.

Consumers who want to support sustainability can sign up for Taelor’s menswear rental subscription service or purchase a gift card at https://taelor.style. Customers can use the code GREEN for 20% off the first two months and they can use the code GREENGIFT for a one-time 20% off gift card for Father’s Day. Menswear fashion brands who want to get involved in the sustainability space by participating in circular fashion and renting out inventory can contact Taelor at hi@taelor.ai.

Fashion & Sustainability

(cont. from pg. 18)

In addition, Looptify recently partnered with young and celebrity athletes Shareef and Me’arah O’Neal to expand in collegiate and high school sportswear. In this postpandemic era, digital and mobile media outlets have become more and more sought after by consumers. Mobile app developers have found ways to bring online shoppers closer to the brands and high-profile personalities they love.

Announcing today, Looptify, the mobile marketplace designed to bring celebrities and influencers’ merchandise directly to their followers, is raising $7,000,000 in Series A. With immense enthusiasm even at their founding stage, the LA-based venture quickly raised funding once in 2019.

“I was very impressed with Nate's deep connections to the most impactful influencers in entertainment and his passion for building exclusive experiences for fans” says Lu Zhang, Founder and Managing Partner of Fusion Fund and Forbes 30 under 30. “Given Looptify's strong traction, we were excited to partner with Nate early on, and are looking forward to supporting the company as it scales to millions of users.”

Besides focusing on business development, Nate jumped into action when he realized that personal protective equipment was lacking in Los Angeles county. He used resources and relationships he had with manufacturers and distributors and purchased $60,000 worth of PPE and donated them to several organizations including the Monterey Park Police Department, San Gabriel Valley Police Department, Palmdale and Regional Medical Center. Learn more at looptifyapp.com.

THE

Virtual ASSISTANT

Skills That Make Businesses More Flexible 3. ATTENTION TO DETAIL

Important communications, information, memos, and documents would always go through virtual assistants. It is important that virtual assistants have a keen eye for factual and typographical errors, off messaging formats, and other possible mistakes before they become public. Virtual assistants can literally save businesses by having a keen eye for details.

4. ADAPT TO PRODUCTIVITY TOOLS

The pandemic has forced businesses to embrace digitalbased operations with the rise of work-from-home arrangements. And in this “new normal” of work, virtual assistants have become very valuable in navigating the “new normal.”

Virtual assistants are the unsung heroes of the work-fromhome era, helping executives, business owners, and other professionals to stay efficient and focused on the core business amid a very unpredictable pandemic environment.

Here are the top virtual assistant skills that businesses need to keep an eye on when hiring.

1. TIME MANAGEMENT Virtual assistants must have the capability to deal with multiple clients and schedules all the time. Without proper time-management skills, it is easy to miss out on important details which may result in lost productivity. It will be best if the aspiring virtual assistant has knowledge of cloud-based calendars and scheduling tools.

2. DATA ORGANIZATION Information is king in the digital age, and for virtual assistants, dealing with bulks of data can be difficult without the proper tools and skills. Knowing how to keep files in a properly labelled, cloud-based storage is crucial in making information readily accessible when needed. Top-notch virtual assistants also know the importance of having secure storage for details like account IDs, passwords, client information, appointments, birthdays, and other information that can be crucial in a project.

Online calendars, scheduling platforms, automation tools, cloud storage – it seems like every task has a tool for it these days. It is true and a lot of them can be learned easily through online courses. Applicants with knowledge of the latest productivity tools, including those in the Microsoft, Google, and Apple ecosystems will have an easier time adapting to the role.

5. BATCHING INSTEAD OF MULTITASKING There are better ways to handle multiple assignments than traditional error-prone multitasking. Batching is one of the top skills of a virtual assistant that allows for more efficient work. Instead of doing multiple tasks for each of the clients’ need, seasoned professionals lump together similar tasks at certain parts of the day.

For example, instead of responding to emails as they come, top-notch virtual assistants can set a time in a day for email correspondence, enabling them to have better focus.

6. RESOURCEFULNESS AND RELIABILITY Once in a while, virtual assistants will find themselves in a dead-end, especially when tasked with finding solutions to the client’s needs. Some would find themselves giving up, but for resourceful people, these dead ends are new beginnings. Virtual assistants that can be relied on to work independently save business owners a lot of valuable and helps for a seamless workflow.

Virtual assistants can be relied on to work independently save business owners a lot of valuable and helps for a seamless workflow.

7. COMMUNICATION Crucial instructions can be lost in translation if a virtual assistant is not fluent in your language. That’s why one of the top skills of a virtual assistant that most businesses are looking for is communication. Virtual assistants who have good written and verbal communication skills will have an easier time adapting to your business needs.

8. TIME FLEXIBILITY Working remotely can be a drag if your virtual assistant is not in sync with your work hours. Anything big can come up within business hours and virtual assistants who cannot work within the same schedule will have a big problem with many tasks. But with a global talent pool, businesses can look for virtual assistants that have no problem adjusting to their time zones for better flexibility.

Virtual assistants will continue to be in demand as the world embraces the digital age. Typical tasks a virtual assistant might perform include scheduling appointments, making phone calls, making travel

arrangements, and managing email accounts.

Some virtual assistants specialize in offering graphic design, blog writing, bookkeeping, social media, and marketing services.

For an employer, one advantage of hiring a virtual assistant is the flexibility to contract for just the services they need, and outsourcing will be key in finding the right talent for your business. Outsourcing virtual assistants will free you up for strategic thinking while reducing overhead costs. More time on the core tasks means faster growth for the business. This article originally appeared in Emapta.

Ultimate Women's Expo combines the very best in shopping, speakers, makeovers, and rejuvenation for the ultimate experience for women.

KENDALL & FANTASIA TAYLOR

KIM FIELDS

40 YEARS OF CREATIVE AND EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE

For four decades, The Chicago Academy for the Arts (The Academy) has provided world-class education for aspiring young artists in the fields of music, dance, theatre, media arts, musical theatre, and visual arts. As one of Chicago's leading arts and culture high schools, and one of the most diverse schools in Illinois, The Academy created an unmatched and transformative educational model. Students are inspired to expand their potential through rigorous arts training paired with an esteemed academic curriculum.

Notable alumni include Cecily Strong (Saturday Night Live actor, author, comedian - 2002, Theatre), Lara Flynn Boyle (award-winning actress - 1988, Theatre), Justin Trantner (award-winning musician and music producer - 1998, Music and Musical Theatre), Lalah Hathaway (awardwinning singer - 1986, Music), Tom Gold (award-winning choreographer - 1986, Dance), and Kevin Mimms (actor and current "Jake from State Farm" - 2008Theatre) "It feels like much more than just a school. The things I learn here are more than an education." ​- Asim Baraka, student ​(2023 expected, Musical Theatre)

CHICAGO ACADEMY FOR THE ARTS | CHICAGOACADEMYFORTHEARTS.ORG

The Academy celebrates this milestone with a gala at Chicago's Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel on Saturday May 14, 2022.

Several alumni, current and former students, and distinguished guests will be in attendance. Read more about the Chicago Academy for the Arts 40th Anniversary Gala or make a donation.

Graduates of The Academy earned nearly $39 million in college scholarships over the past five years and gained admission to the nation’s best universities and conservatories. Most students go on to pursue competitive careers in the arts, as well as the sciences, humanities, business, and more. Alumni exemplify the powerful effect of art and arts education as Broadway stars, Grammy winners, engineers, and entrepreneurs. This special evening will highlight students, alumni, and all those that call The Academy “home.” The Chicago Academy for the Arts has been ‘home’ to thousands of incredible young artists, inspired teachers, and relentless arts advocates for 40 years.

As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we honor the legacy of those who built our special community, those who used this education to transform themselves, and those who used this education to make their mark on the world. And, as we look to our future, we are excited to set the standard for what a school community can be and do in the decades ahead." ​- Jason Patera, Chicago Academy for the Arts Head of School

The Chicago Academy for the Arts has been ‘home’ to thousands of incredible young artists, inspired teachers, and relentless arts advocates for 40 years.”

— Jason Patera, Chicago Academy for the Arts Head of Schooll

STARTING A BUSINESS If you’re looking to start a business, one of the biggest obstacles can be knowing where to start. Many opportunities exist for small businesses today, including support and funding for start-ups, especially for minority business owners.

Starting a small business doesn’t have to be complicated. Consider these five steps to get on the right track.

to fully think through every aspect of your proposed idea. The SBA can help with research of business plans. Enlist the help of other business owners during the process, if you can, to understand how their plans helped them and what to avoid.

3. Fund Your Business

Every business needs capital to get started. Your business plan’s financial section should provide a clear idea of the capital you need to Make sure you understand the current market for your business. This launch. Most businesses rely on multiple financial sources, including: Personal funds step is crucial to turn an idea into a full-fledged business plan.

Bank loans or personal loans Ask questions like: Investors Is this product or service in demand right now?

Crowdfunding Are there similar products and services out there, and are they SBA loans can be one option. For example, Huntington Lift Local succeeding?

Can this product or service be delivered safely for employees and Business is a small business lending program focused on serving minority-, women- and veteran-owned businesses. A top SBA 7(a) customers? lending program, it has developed creative lending options and other Could the business support rapid growth if it really took off? features to help bring relief, recovery and growth to small businesses.

Ask other business owners about challenges and rewards to explore Through the program, businesses can secure SBA-guaranteed loans whether this is a good option for you. Use market analysis tools recommended by resources such as the Small Business Administration from $1,000-150,000 with: Zero origination fees (SBA) to get to know the market for your business.

SBA fees paid by Huntington Lower credit score requirements 2. Write a Business Plan Free financial education courses Checking accounts with 24-hour grace overdraft fee relief and No business can find funding, investors or partners without a solid service fees waived for 36 months business plan. Learning to write a comprehensive plan also forces you Flexible, longer-term repayment options “The pandemic has caused people to re-evaluate and seek out a change, with many choosing to start their own business,” said Maggie Ference, Huntington’s SBA program director. “Everyone deserves a shot at success and our program delivers a solution to customers when they need it most, whether for a startup or an established business looking to grow.”

1. Do Your Research

Laugh, Cry & Reflect in Some Glad Morning

4. Develop a Marketing Plan Creating a brand identity and communicating it well is crucial to success. Consider hiring or contracting marketing services to help you choose your business name, create a logo, build your website and develop a strategic marketing plan to get the word out about your business.

5. Take Care of Business Dotting the “I’s” and crossing the “T’s” is necessary for every business.

Details include choosing your location and registering your business; applying for required licenses and permits, including federal and state tax IDs; and opening your business bank account. Also consulting with an accountant experienced in helping small businesses can ensure you have your financial ducks in a row.Starting a small business is a daunting challenge, but it can also be a rewarding opportunity. Taking the time to fully explore and utilize all the resources at your disposal can help your business become successful. Find more advice for small business owners at huntington.com/smallbusiness/small-businessresources.

Exclusive Interview with

Put Sustainability on the Family Menu SERVE WILD, SUSTAINABLY PRODUCED SEAFOOD

Cooking delicious family meals is surely the focus of many home chefs, from quick dishes on busy weeknights to homestyle favorites on the weekend. Equally important, however, is dishing up foods and ingredients you can feel good about serving to your loved ones.

your loved ones these Blackened Alaska Cod Tacos as a classic way to spice up your dinner table, or give a sweet heat kick to Spicy Alaska Sablefish in Lettuce Cups with Korean chili paste, miso and honey.

Visit alaskaseafood.org to find more information and family-friendly recipes.

The next time seafood is on the menu, consider the source of your main course.

Available fresh, frozen, smoked and canned year-round and nationwide, seafood from Alaska is sustainably harvested, and you can trust it comes from a responsibly managed fishery. Utilizing a science-based approach, the state sustains the long-term vitality of species and their natural habitats, as well as the fishing communities that rely on them.

Spicy Alaska Sablefish in Lettuce Cups Recipe courtesy of the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Servings: 4 (2 lettuce cups each)

Fishermen and scientists work together to ensure they only harvest what science tells them the ecosystem can support, so that fish stocks, communities and the marine environment can thrive for generations to come.

Wild, sustainable and harvested in the USA, Alaska seafood is full of flavor and high-quality protein, vitamins, minerals and oils essential to good health, including omega-3s and vitamin D. You can feel good serving

1/4 cup yellow or white miso 1 tablespoon Korean chili paste 1 tablespoon honey 1 pound Alaska sablefish (black cod), cut into 2-ounce portions nonstick cooking spray 1 small avocado, pitted, peeled and chopped 1-1 1/4 cups cooked sushi rice or quinoa 1/2 cup chopped English cucumber 1/4 cup thinly sliced halved radish 1/2 cup pickled ginger, chopped 1/2 cup bottled Asian-style salad dressing with wasabi and ginger

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