Bayou Beat News - August 2022

Black Business Month | Back-to-School | National Wellness Month

FREE

August 2022

Volume 1, Issue 5

SCAN ME TO SUBSCRIBE

“OUR LEGACY IS NOT FOR SALE!”

REAL ESTATE IS KEY TO KEEPING GENERATIONAL WEALTH IN OUR COMMUNITY

INSIDE THIS EDITION

TDECU'S FIRST BLACK PRESIDENT SPEAKS ON LEADERSHIP, FINANCIAL FREEDOM

PAGE 3

FASHION ELITE CONVERGE ON HOUSTON FOR EPIC SHOWDOWN

PAGE 6

2 | AUGUST 2022

BAYOUBEATNEWS.COM

PUBLISHER’S CORNER A

Follow us on social media

BayouBeat

BayouBeatNews

BayouBeatNews

.......................................

MEMBERS OF

CEO/Publisher Nakia Cooper Marketing and Development Manager Dana Patterson Distribution Manager Joseph “Shorty” Detiege Senior Writer N.C. Greene Columnist Ikeoma Divine Social Media Andrea Kotova Graphics Nathaniel Greene Photography Natalie Greene Live Correspondent Ciara Ross @Iamciaraross

...................................................................................

Houston Association of Black Journalists

Entertainment Coordinator Cornel Grant IG: @MusicMonopoly Email: info@bayoubeatnews.com Advertisement: info@bayoubeatnews.com Subject line: ADS

Welcome to the world! Also, I want to salute two of my best longtime friends, Stephanie and Alexandria, who each gave birth last month to their cute little bundles of joy! Happy birthday Lane and Bryce Love.

With that being said, thanks to everyone for continuing to rock with Bayou Beat News. Black Media Matters!

With love and respect,

Nakia Cooper Publisher, Bayou Beat News President, Houston Association Happy 49th birthday to one of best of Black Journalists homies, Cornel Grant, the owner of Music Monopoly Media Group. For those of you who don’t know, @MusicMonopoly is the premiere Instagram page for hip-hop and R&B artists, and keeps national eyes on H-Town.

Here's something else to smile about.

Happy Birthday Mr. Music Monopoly

...................................................................................

LET’S CONNECT!

nd just like that…we have another edition. Also, just like that, it’s time to get ready for a big shift. Now while it may still feel like summer is here to stay – due to the extreme heat that seems like it will never go away – our summertime festivities are about to wrap up and it is time to get back to the daily grind. But just like it’s “Back-to-School” and “Back to Business,” we want to make sure that you truly get BACK TO YOU! In addition to focusing on our education and professional lives, August is also “National Wellness Month,” and we want to remind you that PUTTING YOURSELF FIRST is not just something to “say,” it is something to “do.” I am particularly in love with the wise “food for thought” article our columnist Ikeoma Divine leaves us with this month at the end of the edition. Read it, reflect on it, then PRACTICE IT.

Welcome to the world Lane and Bryce Love!

BRINGING THAT “SOUTHERN LOVE” TO YOUR DAILY NEWS COVERAGE

AUGUST 2022 | 3

BAYOUBEATNEWS.COM

BUSINESS

FROM BRIGADIER GENERAL TO TDECU'S 1ST BLACK PRESIDENT: By: N.C. Greene

ISAAC JOHNSON HELPS US LEAD IN FINANCES, FUTURE

Leadership matters! It can make or break the success of a company and the overall effectiveness and morale of its employees. In today's climate, especially amid the "Great Resignation" days everyone is talking about, it is important that you have the right person in charge. That's why when you come across a man like Isaac Johnson or hear the praises sung about him from his team, you know that whatever he's doing, he's getting it right.

The Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law graduate climbed military ranks to become Brigadier General for the US Army Reserves 351st Civil Affairs Command, later gaining the prestigious appointment in 2021 as the first Black president and CEO of TDECU, Houston’s largest credit union.

With Johnson leading a team of nearly 900 employees providing financial solutions and education to more than 370,000 member-owners, we felt he was the perfect person to share tips on financial literacy and stability with Bayou Beat News readers.

BBN: How has your law degree and military background shaped you for your role today?

Johnson: I remember when I was a banker early in my career, I looked at presidents and CEOs of Fortune 500 compa-

nies throughout the nation. I saw that many of those CEOs had law degrees in their backgrounds and that helped me solidify my decision to study law. I think those fundamentals of reasoning and logic that law school taught helped me with communication, written and oral, and learning how to influence.

BBN: What is your leadership style?

Johnson: I have learned as much from bad leaders as I have from good leaders. My style is to clearly take charge. If you are a leader, you lead from the front.

I welcome that responsibility, it is a privilege. I love to empower my teammates.

Even in the military, to where I am today as a commanding general, I can use authority to make something happen but if I find myself having to use that authority, I sometimes think I have personally failed because that means I have to resort to “do what I say” versus influencing my teammates and leaders to rally to a ‘North Star’ or a common purpose.

BBN: What is your advice to someone fresh out of college and going into their first job?

Johnson: My advice is exactly what I shared with my son.

Once you land your first job or opportunity, have confidence to know that you deserve to be there, but clearly still be hum-

ble to understand that learning comes with working with teammates and wanting to be a part of something.

You can maintain your authentic self but go ahead and get into the culture of the team so you can grow.

BBN: What advice can you give to others to help guide them on a healthy financial journey?

Johnson: I’d like to share a childhood memory. It was a hot summer day, and I went into a bank with my mother. It was big with marble floors, very fancy, and we went to get a loan but were turned down. It wasn't until I was president of TDECU that I called to ask her about that day and learned she was turned down after asking for only $300. That hurt. With that being said, I want to stress that everyone should have some sort of financial literacy or security.

Here are some tips: 1. Savings. Most financial advisors will tell you that you should have a minimum of six months to a year of emergency savings in your account, but for people in underserved communities who may be living paycheck to paycheck, I would say whatever money you put away for an emergency fund, even $50, have something that you can go to in your time of need.

2. Budget. We must have the discipline of having a budget and sticking to it.

3. Protect your credit. Good credit can open doors for you to finance major purchases, pay college tuition, etc. Don't get overextended and make sure you pay your minimum payments on time every month.

BBN: Under your leadership, how are you ensuring that TDECU remains connected with the community?

Johnson: We are intentional with reaching out in initiatives.

We are communicating with organizations in the community - like Texas Southern, Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, the Tejano Center, and others partnering with them on how we can help their members, students, or constituents on financial literacy, and hopefully they can become members of TDECU. BBN: What is the main principle you live by?

Johnson: Believe in something that is greater than yourself. For me, it is God, and when you put other people's needs before yours, you will be fulfilled, and it will come back to you.

BRINGING THAT “SOUTHERN LOVE” TO YOUR DAILY NEWS COVERAGE

SCAN ME TO SUBSCRIBE

4 | AUGUST 2022

BAYOUBEATNEWS.COM

ON THE BEAT INTERNATIONAL

IS BRITTNEY GRINER ONE STEP CLOSER TO HOME? By: BB Staff

Going against normal policy, the United States has offered a deal to Russia aimed at bringing home Houston native and WNBA star Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan, another jailed American.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently acknowledged that he expects to speak with his Kremlin counterpart to discuss the deal, but did not offer details. A person familiar with the matter said the U.S. is willing to hand over convicted Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout in exchange for the Americans but sources said that Russia is wanting more of a two-for-two swap.

According to CNN sources, Russian officials also requested that Vadim Krasikov, a former colonel from the country's domestic spy agency who was convicted of murder in Germany last year, be added to the list. If that becomes problematic, officials have indicated that they want to see the release of Roman Seleznev, a convicted hacker currently serving a 27-year sentence in the US. This possible swap is showing promise as many are scrutinizing the Biden Administration’s handling of the case, especially in light of a trade deal in April which secured the release of Marine veteran Trevor Reed.

Griner has been detained in Russia for the last five months after vape cartridges containing cannabis oil were found in her luggage. She testified at her most recent trial that she accidentally packed them while trying to return to Russia to participate in its basketball league during the WNBA offseason.

SCAN ME TO SUBSCRIBE

POLITICS

VICE PRESIDENT HARRIS ADDRESSES NAACP CONVENTION; URGES BLACK VOTER PARTICIPATION

By: Stacy M. Brown / NNPA

Vice President Kamala Harris appeared at the NAACP convention in Atlantic City on July 18, declaring that freedom, liberty, and democracy are on the ballot in the upcoming midterm elections.

She implored the large gathering at the Atlantic City Convention Center to make sure that all voices are heard, declaring: “We’re not going to be able to get these days back, so each one of these days we must, with a sense of urgency, ensure that the American people know their voice and their vote matters.

“It is their voice. The right to vote is something that the leaders of this organization and its founders knew to be at the core of all of the other rights and freedoms to which we are entitled.

“So, we know what we need to do. And, in particular, to protect the freedom to vote and a women’s right to make decisions about her own body, we need people who will defend our rights up and down the ballot, from district attorneys to state attorneys general, from local sheriffs to governors.”

The vice president received several standing ovations as she spoke of the need to vote. The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), a trade association representing 235 African American-owned newspapers and media companies, has teamed with the Transformative Justice Coalition in an effort to register 10 million more Black voters ahead of the midterm and 2024 general elections.

LOCAL

HISD HIRES FIRST INDIAN AMERICAN TO LEAD OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS

By: HISD Staff

The Houston Independent School District has tapped its first Indian American to lead the Office of Communications in the district’s nearly 100-year history.

Tejal Patel will serve as Executive Officer of Communications for the Houston Independent School District.

“I am confident Tejal Patel will be outstanding as the Executive Officer of Communications.,” said Superintendent Millard House II. “She brings a breadth of experience to her new role, and I am pleased to be a part of this historic moment. As I have said many times before, it is vital that our leadership team reflects the diversity of our school district and our broader community.”

Patel is a first-generation American, native Texan, and the first in her family to graduate from college.

“I am thrilled to take on this new role and ensure our communications are a two-way conversation between HISD, its families, and our various communities. Transparency and trust are key to building that foundation,” said Patel.

Before joining HISD in March 2021 as the General Manager of Media Relations, she served as the Deputy Press Secretary for Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner. During her tenure in that role, Patel shepherded messaging around the “Stay Home, Work Safe” Order, mask mandates and COVID-19 testing during the pandemic in 2020 to rolling out vaccination opportunities and the winter freeze in 2021.

Patel is a proud Alief ISD alum who graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Journalism.

BRINGING THAT “SOUTHERN LOVE” TO YOUR DAILY NEWS COVERAGE

AUGUST 2022 | 5

BAYOUBEATNEWS.COM

REAL ESTATE

OUR LEGACY IS NOT FOR SALE! REAL ESTATE IS KEY TO KEEPING GENERATIONAL WEALTH IN OUR COMMUNITY By: Jeannetta Collier

I am sure you have noticed the surge of housing prices and the boom of people moving in and out of homes at record rates - neighbors selling their homes for a quick buck with no thought of where will they purchase their next house and/ or calls from strangers asking if you’re interested in selling your family home well over the price you paid for it only a few years back.

We’ve recently seen people overbidding for homes; sometimes well over the appraisal value, and the closings are moving quicker than usual, in stark contrast to years before when a home would sit on the market on average of 30 to 90 days. Terms of it being a “seller’s market” are having those not all-too-familiar with the real estate industry jumping in head-first, but a word of caution is needed.

This is the perfect storm.

People that had no intention of selling or moving have sold their homes and now, for some, reality has kicked in, leaving many to realize that they do not have a place to go. They now see that the nice “chunk of cash” they received for their homes has potentially priced them right out of their own neighborhoods.

You see, when you sold your home at a higher price, the appraisal values for the other homes in the neighborhood likely rose, driving up prices for the entire area.

Oh, and did I mention that you may have to pay “property gains tax” based off the overage of what you received from the sale of your home? So, when you do the real math, you may start asking yourself, was it worth giving up your family legacy?

Don’t fall for the okie doke.

Did you know that corporations are going into neighborhoods and purchasing lots and blocks of homes all while driving up the prices and blocking you out?

Don’t believe me?

A book, “Underwater: How Our American Dream of Homeownership Became a Nightmare,” written by Ryan Dezember, describes how, in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis, corporations began buying suburban houses in masse and then renting them out at high-

Housing Alliance (NFHA), along with other groups around the country, filed a complaint in the United States District Court (Western District of Washington) against the Redfin Corporation, alleging that Redfin violated the Fair Housing Act by redlining.

A complaint states that Redfin’s policies operate as a discriminatory limit on communities of color by disproportionately withholding its services to buyers

and sellers IG: @JEANNETTACOLLIER c e r t a iinn communities, causing a reduction of demand and value while perer-than-norpetuating residential segregamal monthly fees.

These companies aren’t just tion.

Let me bring this home…no depriving potential homeowners of a place to call their own, pun intended. they’re destroying the ability Do you realize that you are befor thousands of middle-class ing squeezed out of the home American families to accumu- buying process and don’t even see it? The NUMBER ONE late wealth.

Discrimination can also be way people acquire generapart of the problem. In Octo- tional wealth is through real ber of 2020, the National Fair estate. Home ownership has teeth. Owning a home gives

you certain rights and a voice in the community. Owning a home gives you access to money. You can borrow or receive cash from your home without demising the value of it and for much lower interest than a credit card or a traditional loan. Owning a home allows you the freedom to live in your space as you see fit (with limits i.e., HOA). Owning a home is your family’s “calling card” to leaving a legacy.

So you may be wondering, should you purchase your home now?

YES! Even with the economy on shaky grounds and home prices shooting upward, if you can truly afford to purchase a home, then I would suggest you do it. I remember when I purchased my first home in Houston, Texas at the age of 21.

The interest rate was 7.6% back then and that was with an excellent credit score. Still today, high interest rates will likely cause your monthly mortgage payments to be slightly higher than the last couple of years, but things will eventually settle. So, if you’re going to jump in…. jump in now.

DON’T GIVE AWAY YOUR LEGACY! When you get that knock on your door from someone wanting to purchase your home, or you get that letter in the mail because you didn’t pay the taxes on your parent’s house, or maybe you overlooked a family lot for years and now some stranger paid the back taxes of $2,000 and now owns your family’s land, take a moment and think about how you could be building wealth for you and your family. The next generation is counting on you.

LEGACY CONT. PG. 9

BRINGING THAT “SOUTHERN LOVE” TO YOUR DAILY NEWS COVERAGE

SCAN ME TO SUBSCRIBE

6 | AUGUST 2022

BAYOUBEATNEWS.COM

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

FASHION ELITE CONVERGE ON HOUSTON FOR ULTIMATE SHOWDOWN By: Nakia L. Cooper

Local designers battled it out for a chance to win cash prizes and a trip to New York Fashion Week while showcasing their creations in the highly anticipated 4th annual Fashion Showdown.

Contestants fought to capture the attention of the elite panel of judges, including co-founder of FUBU J. Alexander Martin Ph.D., celebrity designers Danny Nguyen and Rocky Boston, and fashion talent coach William Harris. Berry Dynamic and JB Brown hosted the show.

Main sponsor of the event was attorney Willie Powells. Bayou Beat News was another proud sponsor.

Fashion Showdown was launched in Houston by actress and model Chekesha Johnson in 2018. After being featured on three seasons of Project Runway, Johnson decided to bring this opportunity to Houstonians to help creators move one step closer to their dreams.

“I wanted to create a space for designers to not only show off their line but feel a sense of accomplishment for all of their hard work,” Johnson said.

“There’s more to a fashion show than just sending models down the runway. We wanted to create a showdown where their designs are truly appreciated and remembered.”

SCAN ME TO SUBSCRIBE

Contestants included Toya Jewel, Bryesiah Bahmam, Ken White, Monica Velez and Shanobia Stovall.

The celebrity judge s

e va l uated the contestants based on creativity, presentation, and quality of designs. In the end, White took home top honors, receiving a career-changing reward to the Big Apple, and a cash prize to start a new collection.

“I’ve worked with some of the top brands in the industry like Neil Hamil Agency and State Management,” Johnson said. “The Fashion Showdown is my way of giving back to my hometown and sharing my expertise to support the future innovators in this city.”

For her efforts, Johnson was surprised with an official proclamation from the City of Houston.

Johnson has over 20 years of modeling and acting experience. She’s been featured in over 75 brands and commercials such as Aveeno, L’Oreal, Whataburger, Essence magazine, Nike, JC Penny, and many more. This year, she will introduce her nonprofit, Queens Foundation, to benefit low-income minority youth. The 501c3 will offer programs related to performance, arts, leadership, mentorship, self-confidence, and clothing drives.

A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the foundation to sponsor children in upcoming summer camps at Future Stars of Houston.

The event was held at 6704 Harrisburg Blvd. It opened with a VIP mixer, followed by the show. For more information, visit www.thefashionshowdown.com.

BRINGING THAT “SOUTHERN LOVE” TO YOUR DAILY NEWS COVERAGE

BAYOUBEATNEWS.COM

AUGUST 2022 | 7

BRINGING THAT “SOUTHERN LOVE” TO YOUR DAILY NEWS COVERAGE

SCAN ME TO SUBSCRIBE

8 | AUGUST 2022

BAYOUBEATNEWS.COM

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

10 STEPS TO HELP PREVENT TEEN SUBSTANCE ABUSE By: Ark Behavioral Health

As our youth head back to school this month, there are many temptations that they will encounter, and we want to make sure we keep them on the right path. During the middle and high school years, many teens begin to experiment with alcohol or other drugs. While it may be common, teen drug abuse poses serious health risks, including drug addiction - also called substance use disorder. As a parent, here are 10 steps you can take to help protect your child from substance abuse.

SET CLEAR RULES

You might assume that your child knows you want them to avoid drugs. In most cases, though, children and adolescents need clear rules. Describe your expectations, which may include: avoiding drug use of any kind, not spending time with people who use drugs, immediately leaving parties or other events where people are using drugs and never getting in a vehicle with a driver who’s drunk or high.

KEEP TEENS BUSY

Unfortunately, boredom is one of the main risk factors for substance abuse. That’s why you should encourage your child to stay busy with after-school activities and hobbies. In particular, encourage activities that promote overall wellness, such as physical activities or arts and crafts.

Along with keeping your teen occupied, these endeavors can boost relaxation and self-esteem. A calm, confident teen is much less likely to abuse drugs than other teens.

EXPLAIN THE DANGERS

It’s a parent or guardian’s responsibility to educate teens on the negative consequences of substance abuse, which may include: relationship problems, poor school performance, poor decision-making skills (which can lead to risky behaviors like drunk driving and unprotected sex), impaired brain development and health problems like heart disease, depression, and sleep disorders.

TEACH TEENS HOW TO REFUSE DRUGS

Young people often start using drugs due to peer pressure. They may feel uncomfortable with drug and alcohol use but don’t know how to say “no.” That’s why you should teach your child to refuse drugs by giving reasons or making excuses. Effective excuses include: • “I have a doctor’s appointment tomorrow, and they might take a urine sample.”

• “My parents can always tell when I come home drunk or high.”

• “I have to go somewhere else in a few minutes.”

BE A GOOD ROLE MODEL

Although it might not always seem like it, teens pay attention to their parents’ behavior. If you abuse alcohol or other drugs, your child will likely follow your lead. Make an effort to model healthy behavior instead.

KEEP TRACK OF YOUR TEEN

When

your teen leaves the house, ask where they’re going and what they’ll be doing. If a situation sounds risky (such as an unsupervised party), suggest a different activity. Also, get to know your child’s friends. If they abuse drugs, they might pressure your child to do the same. Encourage your teen to only associate people who share your family’s views on substance abuse.

KEEP YOUR HOME SAFE

While some teens get introduced to drugs while out with friends, others find drugs at home. Make your home a safe haven by hiding any alcohol.

Also, take inventory of all prescription and over-the-counter medications so you’ll know when any substances go missing.

You should also hide or take inventory of inhalants. Inhalants are household items that some people (mainly children, teens, and young adults) inhale to get high. They include: hairspray, deodorant spray, spray paint, vegetable oil spray, aerosol computer cleaning products, whipped cream cans, glue, paint thinners or removers

HELP YOUR TEEN MANAGE STRESS

Like adults, teens often use drugs to deal with stress. That’s why it’s important to teach your child healthier ways to relax, such as journaling, taking a bath, listening to music, reading a book, meditating, napping, playing with a pet and spending time with loved ones. Your teen can also stave off stress by getting regular exercise, eating a well-balanced diet, and sleeping at least eight hours a night.

STRENGTHEN YOUR RELATIONSHIPS

Many teens turn to drugs when they feel alone or neglected. You can help your child stay drug-free by spending more time together. Make time for regular conversations without phones, TV, or other distractions. Listen to your child’s thoughts and feelings and provide support when necessary.

The closer your teen feels to you, the more likely they are to approach you when they’re struggling, instead of turning to drugs.

SEEK MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT

Teens who live with mental illnesses like depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and schizophrenia face a much higher risk of substance abuse than teens who don’t. Thus, you should keep an eye on your child’s mental health. If you notice any mood or behavioral changes, such as persistent sadness or sudden withdrawal from friends and family, talk to your child’s health care provider. If the doctor suspects mental illness, they’ll likely refer you to a mental or behavioral health professional.

LEGACY CONT. Jeannetta Collier, Agent // United Real Estate DFW Properties // Commercial and Residential // Email: Jeannetta@JeannettaCollier.com Website: www.dfwrealestateadvisors.com // Instagram: @JeannettaCollier Disclosure: These are the views of Jeannetta Collier and not the views of my brokerage or broker. Please note that I am not an attorney or and financial advisor, therefore please consult with the party or parties that can help you with your financial and/or legal needs.

BRINGING THAT “SOUTHERN LOVE” TO YOUR DAILY NEWS COVERAGE

AUGUST 2022 | 9

BAYOUBEATNEWS.COM

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND ADDITIONAL RESOURCES, VISIT WWW.ARKBH.COM.

CONGRATULATIONS! We would also like to say “Happy 13th birthday" to our favorite LEGENDARY ballerina Lauren Anderson, who just celebrated 13 years of sobriety. The Houston native posted the proud news on her Facebook page.

The July 15th post read, "I'm Becoming a Teen...it's my 13th birthday!!. It was the day I got arrested for DUI that I stood before a judge, "Lauren Anderson, the Sugar Plum Fairy." I was beyond embarrassed and ashamed.

"Why are you in my court room." The judge asked. This day would forever change my life. It became the first day of my sober life! Today I become a teenager and turn 13 years old in sobriety. Peace at last ONE DAY AT A TIME. #sobriety #soberlife #imbecomingateen #laurenandersonofficial #pointe #ballerina #mybirthday."

NEED HELP?

505 N Sam Houston Parkway E Houston, TX 77060 Phone: 281-639-2126 www.psychoogytoday.com

BRINGING THAT “SOUTHERN LOVE” TO YOUR DAILY NEWS COVERAGE

10 | AUGUST 2022

BAYOUBEATNEWS.COM

EDUCATION

BLACK EXCELLENCE! 15-YEAR-OLD BOY TO BECOME SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY’S YOUNGEST GRADUATE Courtesy: SHSU Communications Office

As many teens are preparing to wrap up summer fun and head back to school in August, one extraordinary young man is getting ready to cross a major milestone, while making history. At 15 years old, Nehemiah Juniel will graduate from Sam Houston State University with his bachelor’s degree in health sciences, becoming the youngest student to ever graduate from the university.

His parents said Nehemiah has always been extremely interested in learning more. His curiosity led him to discovering how to play

the piano by ear. At 5 years old, he was doing pre-algebra, and received his Associates of Science degree at age 13.

Growing up in a supportive family environment with six siblings, Nehemiah was homeschooled by his parents along with his sister, Gabrielle, who will graduate ahead of schedule from SHSU in the fall at the age of 19.

Their mother, Corie, believes SHSU was a great fit because the extra services provided made their transition into university life easier than expected.

“Financial aid spent hours with us to get Nehemiah’s award package worked out. They went the extra mile when speaking with the Federal Student Aid office, and were the most patient, resilient staff we’ve ever had the pleasure of working with,” she said. “With my husband being a veteran, we used his Hazelwood benefits, and the Veterans Resource Center walked

us through the process.”

While learning comes naturally for the 15-year-old, earning a college degree and maintaining a high GPA still came with a few difficulties.

“The biggest challenge was staying focused. It was especially difficult when the course material was uninteresting or something I already knew,” Nehemiah said. “I often needed encouragement from others to put effort into such work before I put myself back on track again.

My professors and teaching assistants were the most positive aspect of my experience at SHSU.” It’s no surprise that Nehemiah’s quest for knowledge will con-

tinue after he crosses the stage.

He will soon start studying for the MCAT to pursue his dream of becoming a cardiologist.

“Around the age of eight years old, I decided I wanted to become a surgeon of some sort,” he said. “As I grew, I continued to change and specify what kind of career I wanted to pursue.

This culminated into my decision to study cardiology.”

He also hopes to inspire others to go after their dreams, as well, no matter their age.

“Don’t get discouraged if you run into a few issues or if you fail a couple of times. As long as you keep trying, you will eventually reach your goal,” he said.

BRINGING THAT “SOUTHERN LOVE” TO YOUR DAILY NEWS COVERAGE

AUGUST 2022 | 11

BAYOUBEATNEWS.COM

IKEOMA’S EYE

RIP TO THE PHENOTYPE OF 'THE STRONG BLACK WOMAN': A SYNOPSIS OF CAPE BURNING In recognition of National Wellness Month, I'd like to discuss an issue that's prevalent in our community.... the phenotype of THE STRONG BLACK WOMAN. It's a role that has put many of us in an early grave. We were taught that our worth was determined by how well we took care of others.

A prime example is a woman I knew who was taking care of

her husband with dementia, and her adult son who had schizophrenia. Both needed constant supervision, but they had different sleep schedules.

One would be awake and active all night and the other one would be alert during the day.

With minimal support from family or her community, she would rely on mini-naps whenever she could sit down.

By the time I was introduced to her, this had been her routine for years. It finally caught up with her. She had a stroke which left her disabled. The family who did not support her when she needed help, swiftly came in and put her, the son, and husband in nursing homes while taking over the woman's assets that she had worked all her life for. Right before her stroke episode, I had a conversation with her urging the importance of self-care and sustainability. Although she agreed, the love for her husband and child fueled the determination that became her detriment.

Many chronic diseases and illnesses are not only preventable but are secondary to stress. No matter your budget, take off your cape and make time for yourself. Nurture your physical, mental, and spiritual aspects. A lot of us are the center of the machine that

CREDIT: ORIGINAL PHOTO CREATED BY SOUTH AFRICAN ARTIST, MARY SIBANDE

run our households. Without us, it may not sustain. We owe it to ourselves and all who depend on us to make our health a priority. Don’t allow the “honorary cape” to define you or be the catalyst to your early demise.

Ways to relax physically include a spa day (either at home or a facility) and/or mild exercises such as walking, swimming, and Yin Yoga. The best relaxation and optimal body repair process happens during sleep. Cut your phone off, darken your room and sleep until you wake up without alarms.

News in Health’s article, “Good Sleep for Good Health,” stated, “not getting enough quality sleep regularly raises the risk of many diseases and disorders ranging from heart disease, stroke, obesity and dementia.”

Undiagnosed mental illness is prevalent in our community.

Fortunately, there has been a surge of mental health professionals (MHP) that understand our cultures and can recognize what mental disorders look like in “us.”

As an example, we often confuse “bad mothering” with postpartum depression - which is a clinical illness related to hormonal imbalance. MHPs are able to assist us with coping skills and possibly medication that can help us navigate through our mental challenges.

Discovering a hobby, traveling, and making new friends are also options to improve one’s mental health.

Spiritual health has been known to be a staple in most of our lives. It seems to be the source of our super strength.

It’s also important that we understand the difference between religion and spirituality.

Religion is a vehicle used to connect one to their spirituali-

By: Ikeoma Divine ty although it is not necessary.

Discover and utilize any spiritual practices that you resonate with. This is YOUR journey.

Is your cape choking you?

Who could you be if you were no longer drained energetically, physically, mentally, or spiritually by being other people's mule? It's ok to help others but not to the detriment of your health. Self-preservation is nature's primal instinct. We've been sold this "shero ideology" that is literally killing us and only benefits those we serve.

Yet, despite our dedication, we're met with resentment, ungratefulness or nonreciprocity when we need help. Stop windmilling, marching, and campaigning for people who don't reciprocate your loyalty.

Set boundaries unapologetically. In this society, self-love and avocation is a revolutionary act. Be …. That …. rebel.

"Live Your Purpose, Follow Your Path" Have questions or concerns about life?

Go to our website to get clarity today. www.ikeomaseye.com

BRINGING THAT “SOUTHERN LOVE” TO YOUR DAILY NEWS COVERAGE

e l a s

FREE Kids Desk Set

BUNK BEDS under $399 with any kid’s furniture purchase of $999 or more.

BOYS BEDROOM SETS UNDER $

only 999

GIRLS NIGHTSTANDS UNDER $

200

1304 Turtle Creek Drive Missouri City, TX 77489 (281) 416-8851 www.lesliesfurniture.com