Business Journal 177

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BUSINESS JOURNAL

Entrepreneur | Business | Education and Career | Finance | Legal | Real Estate | Technology | Insurance

May 2022

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Inspire, Inform & Educate

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177th Edition

TSU Celebrates Groundbreaking Partnerships at Inaugural President’s Tiger Ball Pictured from L to R: TX State Rep. Jarvis Johnson (District 139), Dannette K. Davis, CFM (Kay Davis Associates LLC), Paula Harris (Houston Astros Foundation), Dr. Lesia L. Crumpton-Young (Texas Southern University 13th President), MR. D-MARS, and Andrea Odom (The Odom Consulting Group)

10-11

INSIDE

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Houston based entrepreneur gifts $110K George Floyd statue to Harris County

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MR. D-MARS and DePelchin Children’s Center host a Community Leader Talk and Meet & Greet to Empower DADS and Improve the Community

06

Local Entertainment Company Provides Platform for Houston Artists to Display Their Art to the Community

2 | May 2022

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

May 2022 | 3

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

MR. D-MARS CERTIFIED:

HMSDC

d-mars.com is proud to continue our partnership with the community, publishing positive content and success stories promoting the advancement of our African American businesses and civic and community leaders.

This month’s cover story highlights Texas Southern University’s Tiger Ball, the University’s largest fundraiser for student scholarships and programs.

This year’s theme was “Supporting Scholarships and Transformation at TSU.” Hundreds of TSU students excel in their areas of study, but without the necessary funding, they would not have the opportunity to pursue a college education.

Port of Houston

METRO

BEHIND THE JOURNAL

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla ASSISTANT SALES REPRESENTATIVE Tiffany Brown OPERATIONS COORDINATOR Bria Casteel ART DIRECTOR Angel Rosa DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Erick Fontejon PHOTOGRAPHY Grady Carter L.C. Poullard DISTRIBUTION Mike Jones CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Bridgett Holden Stacy M. Brown Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. Tami V. Allen, MS, LPC James Marshall

— the Honorable Barack Obama, 44th President of the United States

City of Houston

HISD

CONTENTS COVER STORY TSU Celebrates Groundbreaking Partnerships at Inaugural President’s Tiger Ball

PUBLISHER & CEO Keith J. Davis, Sr. CHIEF OF STAFF & MANAGING EDITOR Kimberly Floyd

“In a global economy where the most valuable skill you can sell is your knowledge, a good education is no longer just a pathway to opportunity - it is a prerequisite.”

The Tiger Ball celebrated groundbreaking partnerships that will continue to support scholarships and transformation at TSU. TSU’s partners have demonstrated a willingness and readiness to invest in the success of their students who are pursuing their education on the historic campus. Hopefully, this read will encourage you to invest in your community’s scholars, helping them achieve their academic goals and reach the highest level of success in their careers.

As always, thank you for your continued support of d-mars.com, progressing our publication’s efforts to highlight the communities in which we serve, live, and work. Partnering together, we succeed in making positive things happen.

10-11 04 BUSINESS 04 Helping Small Businesses Thrive in Economic Uncertainty 04 Heading Back to the Office? Here’s What To Expect 06 COMMUNITY 06 Local Entertainment Company Provides Platform for Houston Artists to Display Their Art to the Community 08 Houston based entrepreneur gifts $110K George Floyd statue to Harris County 12 Community Leader Talk and Meet & Greet with DePelchin Children’s Center 21 Study: Race Is Central to Identity for Black Americans and Affects How They Connect 13-20 HEALTH & WELLNESS 14 Serena Williams’ Message to Medical Professionals: Listen to Black Women 16 6 Steps To Help You Protect Your Vision 17 OP-ED: Prostate Cancer Rising in Black America 18 The Role of Pharmacists Is Changing, Here’s What To Know 18 CDC Launches New Center for Forecasting and Outbreak Analytics 19 How To Encourage Someone To Seek Therapy 22 EDUCATION & CAREER 22 TSU celebrates groundbreaking partnerships at inaugural President’s Tiger Ball Funds raised will support scholarships and transformation at TSU 24-25 Congratulations to these graduates and all the young scholars in our community!

26 Verizon, Houston Fund for Social Justice and Economic Equity Fuel TSU Entrepreneurship Education

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4 | May 2022 BUSINESS

BUSINESS

Heading Back to the Office? Here’s What To Expect By d-mars.com News Provider

H

ybrid work is here. With indoor mask mandates lifting around the United States and news of major companies heading back into the office at least part-time, workers can expect more meetings with a mix of remote and in-office participants from now on.

Fulfilling the hybrid promise will take time, testing, and learning, not to mention evolutions in technology and culture. Here's what you can expect if you're heading back to the office this spring.

By d-mars.com News Provider

A

s the country faces uncertain economic conditions including record-high inflation, small businesses are integral to the health and regrowth of the economy. They currently account for 99.9% of American businesses and 46.8% of employed adults in the United States, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration.

DigitalPayments PaymentsAre AreaaLifeline Lifelinetoto Digital SmallBusinesses Businesses Small It has become clear over the past two years that digital payments, including credit and debit cards, fuel growth for small businesses. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, electronic payments provided a lifeline to small businesses, allowing them to continue to serve their customers, sometimes in new ways, in their local communities, and in the broader global market. As inflation rises with no sign of slowing down and the economy faces unprecedented volatility, digital payments will continue to help small businesses thrive - in challenging economic times and in good ones.

Smallbusinesses businesseshave have been been empowered empowered Small bydigital digitalpayments paymentsbecause because they level by theplaying playingfield fieldwith with big big retail retail and large the e-commercein inmany manyways, ways, including: including: e-commerce • More access to sales, guaranteed payment, added security and transaction protections, and a payment option that is less expensive for businesses than cash; • E-commerce capabilities, allowing for online sales during lockdown periods; and • Convenient offerings for customers who are seeking new, safer ways to shop, such as buy online - pick up in store or contactless checkout.

Data has even shown that businesses that had access to digital payments during the pandemic were more resilient and better able to compete than those that did not. In fact, 90% of small businesses attribute their pandemic survival to e-commerce, according to the Visa Global Back to Business Survey - 2022 SMB Outlook.

While the United States economy has begun

to rebound from pandemic lows, small businesses continue to face new challenges. The question is how can they get the support they need?

TakingAction ActionNow NowtotoHelp HelpSmall Small Taking Businesses by Making it Less Costlytoto Businesses by Making it Less Costly Accept Digital Payments Accept Digital Payments Recognizing the power of digital payments to help small businesses compete and thrive, Visa is lowering key in-store and online consumer credit interchange rates for more than 90% of American businesses by 10%, effective April 2022. These rate changes will apply to businesses with $250,000 of Visa consumer credit volume, which generally applies to businesses with $2-2.5MM in revenue.

These small businesses make up the vast majority of businesses that accept Visa payments.

These reductions are in addition to steps Visa took over the past two years to support American businesses, including committing to digitally enabling 50 million small businesses globally, launching programs, and directing resources to provide the essential digital capabilities needed for recovery.

Lookingtotothe theFuture FuturetotoHelp HelpSmall Small Looking Businesses Succeed Businesses Succeed Beyond these actions, there are numerous resources available for small business owners who are working to grow their business and "go digital," and for consumers eager to support their local merchants during challenging economic times.

• Small businesses can access Visa's Small Business Hub, which features digital enablement tools, and solutions for small businesses to help them reach more customers.

• Local communities can use a Back to Business tool to easily find and Support Local Businesses in their vicinity.

The prosperity of small businesses is not only important for the health of the global economy during periods of uncertainty, but for the everyday strength and vibrancy of our local communities. As the future of money continues to evolve, it is critical that small businesses have the resources and support they need to succeed and keep up with big retail in the increasingly digital economy.

Source: BPT

Buildingaaresilient resilienthybrid hybridculture culture Building We are living in a new paradigm - the value of work lies in what you do, not where you go to do it. Similarly, strong workplace culture is no longer about the look and feel or in-office perks of a corporate campus. Culture is defined by the values that serve the company's mission and unite the workforce.

Culture shifts that can help equalize the work experience for remote and onsite workers start with reinforcing that all types of participation are welcome and supported. Meeting frequency and formats should be reevaluated for the hybrid environment - how often should teams meet, who should be there, what types of meetings are best suited for the office, and more. Leadership styles should also adjust to ensure remote workers get equal attention and opportunity before, during, and after meetings.

The Theoffice officeisisits itsown ownexperience experience For the hybrid model to work, we can't revert to pre-pandemic office behaviors. The past two years have proved that workers don't need to be in the office to be productive. So what can the office offer if it's no longer the hub of productivity? For starters, technology tools and space to create an experience workers can't get at home.

The office serves as a business center, where workers can come to hold in-person meetings, collaborate, print documents, and head home to finish their focused work.

Employers should reassess their space for simple solutions that make a world of difference for the hybrid worker. Concepts like hot desking can optimize office desk space, allowing employees who plan to work in the office to reserve a desk as needed. Hot desking maximizes your office's floor plan and accommodates whoever needs to be on-site any given day.

Meeting room systems also deserve extra focus, where modular or all-in-one solutions can add interactive features and improve the onsite experience. Those solutions could include a camera and soundbar that feature a wide field of view, auto-framing, and noise cancellation. And traditional boardroom furniture can be replaced by causal seating for more natural interactions.

‘You’re 'You're on mute’ mute' It will naturally take time to master the art of facilitating more inclusive hybrid meetings. Remote participants may worry about not feeling heard, so they may not speak up at all. Onsite participants viewing a gallery can't always tell who's speaking and inadvertently cut one another off or hear the dreaded "you're on mute."

"Addressing hybrid collaboration challenges isn't simply a matter of seeing and hearing more clearly or joining a meeting more easily. Technology must bring the same natural, in-person experience, with all its nuances, to virtual engagement - and it must deliver an equal experience for all participants," said Shannon MacKay, General Manager of the Worldwide Smart Collaboration Business Group at Lenovo. "The kind of smart collaboration that fuels innovation must be powered by technology that's ubiquitous, equitable, and seamless."

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Source: BPT

May 2022 | 5

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6 | May 2022 COMMUNITY

Local Entertainment Company Provides Platform for Houston Artists to Display Their

ART TO THE COMMUNITY

However, with the recent event, Stewart could not be happier with the outcome.

By Bridgett Holden

“Whenever you create a plan and can execute it flawlessly, the experience cannot be described as anything other than unbelievably successful,”

Contributing Writer

I

n conjunction with inspiration from an article written by Monique Welch in the Houston Chronicle aptly titled ”6 Black Artists You Need To Know Who Are Part of Houston’s Booming Art Scene,” Reggie Stewart, founder, and CEO of Eternal Light Entertainment, (ELE) created Roho Ya Msanii, the Soul of the Artist Series that ran from March to April to present and provide a platform for four of the artists mentioned in Welch’s article to display their artwork to the community at the Agora Haus, a private upscale location in The Heights pro bono.

Roho Ya Msanii, the Soul of the Artist, is a series of art mixers designed to share the essence of each artist with the public,” stated Stewart. “Eternal Light works in the art and music industries and one of our missions is to feature up-and-coming artists. When I read Monique’s article, I was inspired by their individual stories and unique talents. I wanted to provide an evening and space for each artist to showcase their art, showing Houston why they are artists we need to know.”

The Soul of the Artist kicked off on March 10th, featuring 45-year-old Akaimi Davis a.k.a. "Akaimi the Artist" who travels back and forth from San Antonio to Houston for treatment from rare a form of leukemia known as large granular lymphocytic leukemia. Davis has undergone chemo for two years and went full-time with her art shortly after.

“This was a n a ma zing opportunity,” stated Davis. “I enjoyed being able to showcase my art with a beautiful mix of people at a beautiful venue, and the energy in the room was impeccable! I can’t wait to see what’s to come!”

On March 24th, Soul of the Artist featured Audrianna Woods a.k.a. "Miss Audrii" who is the youngest of the artists, (27 years old). Woods has been painting for five years, and went full-time three years ago, with this as her first featured art showing.

“I am beyond excited to be a part of Soul of the Artist put on by Eternal Light Entertainment,” stated Woods!” “Painting has become my way of expressing who I truly am and is my way of spreading

stated Stewart.

love and light into the world. I believe it’s special to connect with who you are and where you come from, and I’ve made it my mission to show that within my artwork!”

The next artist featured on April 7th was native Houstonian Michael Temple a.k.a. "Madd Kyng." The 29-year-old, jumped into art full time after graduating from San Diego State University. He has worked on projects for Houston rapper Tobe Nwigwe, Astroworld, and installations inside the new Museum for Black Girls in Uptown Park Mall.

“Through consistent hard work, opportunities flow like water,” stated Temple. “I am grateful for this opportunity to grow my presence in Houston’s art community.”

Closing out the series on April 21st was Doug James Jr. a.k.a. "Art by Nato." This native Houstonian’s father is Doug James

Sr., Klein ISD school board member who has been a pivotal inspiration behind his son’s art. James Jr.'s first big break came when Spike Lee contacted him via Instagram about an art piece he did of Denzel Washington's portrayal of Bleak Gilliam in the film Mo' Better Blues. Once James Jr. realized it was the famous producer, they planned for Lee to purchase the art from James Jr. Many of his pieces highlight music artists, political leaders, and other notable figures in the Black community.

“I’m honored and blessed beyond words to be a part of the Soul of the Artist Series,” stated James Jr. “When I heard the title of the mixer, I knew it meant that as an artist you need to put your entire soul into everything you create. I love creating pieces that resonate with me, my life experiences, and much more. I always use this quote from one of my favorite artists, Jean Michel Basquiatto who said, “I don't think about art when I'm working. I try to think about life. Life is your canvas. Paint your piece in the way God intends you to do. The world is yours.” This reminds me of why art is imperative.

Although statistics show that 0000.2% of artists become successful, Stewart acknowledges a lot of work goes into producing an art show, securing the venue, creating the buzz, making sure people attend, etc. And unless the artist has an agent or gallery working with them, it's almost impossible for them to pull it off.

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“Because of the great team I had, we were able to offer each artist the experience we planned with them from the beginning.

Both the artist and audience left each evening having truly enjoyed themselves and that was most rewarding for me.”

There could be a foreseeable change on the horizon for the art industry in Texas.

According to Texas Monthly Magazine, “From all reports on the front, the art scene in Texas is being infiltrated by artists from all over the country. Welch’s article states, “Houston is an art mecca,” and movoto. com states that “Houston is rapidly gaining a reputation as the premier fine art fair in the South and the next ‘Art Basel Miami.’” With a quirky, fresh approach to the visual arts, Houston’s art community is booming.”

“The purpose of this series was to provide these amazing artists with a platform to display their art and share their soul to the audience, and from the incredible response from those that attended it appears that those expectations were not only met but were far exceeded,” said Stewart. “We had high expectations and it's truly a great feeling when you can achieve your goals.”

Although the Soul of the Artist Series has concluded, Stewart plans to create this experience again in Houston and in other cities in Texas, working with gallery owners and curators to shed light on upand-coming artists.

“We are looking at presenting this series at different venues throughout the city of Houston and then take it on the road to major cities in the country,” stated Stewart.

“We want to continue to provide this platform for Black artists to share their art and soul, but equally important, to be compensated financially as fairly as possible, for their time and talents.”

May 2022 | 7

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8 | May 2022 COMMUNITY

Houston based entrepreneur gifts $110K to

GEORGE FLOYD STATUE Harris County D By d-mars.com News Provider

annette Davis of Kay Davis Associates has donated a $110,000 statue of the late George Floyd to Harris County. The entrepreneur and philanthropist commissioned the piece, which is titled “A Conversation with George” by renowned sculptress Adrienne Rison-Isom.

Q&A With Dannette Davis: D-MARS: Does this gesture confirm for you that the injustice committed against George is Dannette Davis of still at the Kay Davis Associates. forefront of our minds and that we should stay in the fight against injustice?

DD: Anytime you memorialize someone it’s because you don’t want people to forget. What happened to George was a human tragedy— so yes, we want to keep it at the forefront of everyone’s mind. I wanted to memorialize him so that he will always be a symbol of change, and a symbol for higherlevel thinking. It’s crucial that people don’t forget so that history doesn’t repeat itself.

Photo Source AG Media Agency: Mockup of the statue of the late George Floyd that will be unveiled in May.

D-MARS: How have you seen this injustice enhance police accountability?

DD: How have you seen the community respond since this incident? I think that there is more consciousness surrounding how we respond when we see injustice.

People are more apt to record and get involved than they were before and we have even seen officers hold their counterparts accountable by reporting bad behavior in the field.

D-MARS: During Derek Chauvin’s trial, we were on fire, coming together in a way this world has never seen speaking out against this injustice. But talk about how we can’t let the fire die and get comfortable.

DD: We must continue to keep the movement going by creating murals and memorials like our unveiling of the “Conversation With George” statue at Tom Bass Park and we continue to have legislation. The fact that the officers were convicted lets us know that the American system and the legislative process can work,

Dannette Davis with Commissioner Rodney Ellis.

but we just have to stay vigilant.

D-MARS: How should this statue created by Adrienne Rison-Isom

encourage us to use our own particular gifts and talents to make a difference and raise awareness of social injustices? DD: We all have special talents that we can use for the greater good. If you’re an attorney, it’s the cases that you fight for; if you’re a politician, it’s the bills that you pass; if you’re in the classroom, you fight to teach the truth; and if you’re a filmmaker, you get the story to the masses and make it relevant.

Whatever you do, use it for the greater good and for the betterment of our community.

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D-MARS: Is there anything else you want our readers to know?

DD: Although Kay Davis Associates is my company, I created the Kay Davis In The Community Foundation to give back to the underserved. We are always looking for partners and local projects to connect with and support. There are opportunities available for those partners who want to work directly with us and opportunities for partners who want to help us serve others.

The unveiling is scheduled for May 25, 2022, at Tom Bass Park. For more information, please email Alex Green at info@agmediaagency.com.

May 2022 | 9

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10 | May 2022

By d-mars.com News Provider

T

his month d-mars.com shines the spotlight on Texas Southern University’s Tiger Ball, the University’s largest fundraiser for student scholarships and programs. The sold-out event hosted at the George R. Brown Convention Center was presented by the TSU Fou nd at ion B o a rd .

This year’s theme was “Supporting Scholarships and Transformation at TSU.” Hundreds of TSU students excel in their areas of study, but without the necessary funding, they would not have the opportunity to pursue a college education.

Texas Southern University’s partners have demonstrated a willingness and readiness to invest in the success of our students who are pursuing their education on our historic campus,” said

TSU President Dr. Lesia L. Crumpton-Young.

“That investment will undoubtedly assist our community of scholars in achieving their academic and career goals and transform lives.”

A Parade of Partners accompanied by TSU’s Ocean of Soul kicked off the event, acknowledging the top sponsors and celebrating their contribution to TSU’s success.

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“The Texas Southern Un i v e r s i t y Foundation Board is grateful for the support of all of our sponsors, alumni, and friends for making the night a success to benefit student scholarships and transformation at TSU,” said Dr.Frazier Wilson, Chairman, TSU Foundation Board of Trustees. “We look forward to continuing our work to support the University under the direction of the Board of Regents and President Young. Together, we are TSU Proud.”

TDECU was the presenting sponsor of this year’s Tiger Ball.

“As a proud graduate of TSU’s Thurgood Marshall School of Law, I understand the significance of HBCUs and how investing in education can help transform students’ lives in our communities,” said TDECU President & CEO Isaac Johnson. “TDECU believes in helping our members navigate their financial journeys. I am intentionally expanding the reach of our organization to communities including TSU and making investments in those communities to provide access to the services we offer.” TDECU was joined by seven other “Transformation” sponsors at the $100,000 level: JPMorgan Chase, CenterPoint Energy, Nikki, and Benny Agosto Jr., Shell, the Houston Texans, the Houston Astros Foundation, and Antoinette M. Jackson Esq.

May 2022 | 11

The Tiger Ball’s $75,000 “TSU Proud” sponsors were President Lesia, Reginald, Mattlyn, and Ashlee Young.

“Visionary” sponsors, representing a $50,000 sponsorship, included Bayway Auto Group and Challenge Office Products. The “Tiger Walk” sponsors, representing a $25,000 sponsorship, included A-Rocket Moving and Storage, the Daffin Family, HillDay Public Relations, the Jacobson Family Foundation, Health Care Services Corporation led

by Maurice Smith, and the Verizon Foundation.

The event’s “1927” sponsors, representing a $15,000 sponsorship, included Houston First Corporation, LaTanya Easter, and Sysco. “Maroon and Gray” sponsors, representing a $10,000 sponsorship, included 1Vision, Aundrea and Richard Young, Comcast, TSU law professor Dr. Edieth Wu, Dr. Judith L. Craven, Houston Airports, Frost Bank, TSU Athletics, and the TSU Center for Justice Research.

“Partnerships are vital to the success of Texas Southern University,” said Melinda Spaulding, Vice President of Communications & University Advancement. “Every sponsor that chose to partner with TSU in this effort showed they believe in the students and they believe in the transformative work happening on the campus daily.”

The climax of the evening was a raffle for a new car, sponsored by Bayway Auto Group and HillDay Public Relations led by TSU alumna and President/CEO Argentina James. The winner of the raffle was TSU senior

student-athlete Briana Creeks. She won her choice of a 2022 Lincoln Corsair or Cadillac XT4.

Tiger Ball guests were entertained by KTSU personality Chilly Bill Smith and the Transformation Band, under the direction of Ernest Walker, KTSU’s general manager, and composed of TSU alumni, staff, and Tiger talent.

The Tiger Ball celebrated groundbreaking partnerships that will continue to support scholarships and transformation at TSU. Knowledge is power. And when it comes to education, without financial support, many of our students

lack the funding to receive a quality education. It is our duty to invest in our scholars, helping them achieve their academic goals and reach the highest level of success in their careers. When we invest in them, they can invest in the next generation, building a strong legacy of leadership and service that will last a lifetime.

For more information on how you can support the students at Texas Southern University, please visit www.TSU.edu.

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Source: Texas Southern University

12 | May 2022 COMMUNITY

MR. D-MARS and DePelchin Children’s Center host a Community Leader Talk and Meet & Greet to Empower DADS and Improve the Community

Recently MR. D-MARS held a Community Leader Talk and Meet & Greet with DePelchin Children’s Center.

Jenifer Jarriel, Board President and Chief Executive Officer of DePelchin Children’s Center joined MR. D-MARS to meet Harris and Fort Bend county community leaders to start conversations, forge new partnerships and empower the community. Also, in attendance with DePelchin were Megan Green (Program Manager, Parent Centered Services) and Ralph DeMar (Program Coordinator DePelchin All Dads Succeed Program).

Attendees included: State Rep. Ron Reynolds, Fort Bend County Attorney Bridgette Smith-Lawson, Community Activist Deric Muhammad, Pastor Terrance Johnson (Higher Dimension Church), Lynn Byrd (Higher Dimension Church), Andre and Miranda Horn (Industrial Welding Academy), Attorney Rodney Jones, Margie Willliams (The ROCK Church), Sheriff Donnie Williams, Fort Bend County District Attorney Brian Middleton, and Darrell and Audrey Provo (Brothers & Brothers Utility Services LLC).

DePelchin Children’s Center will be hosting a DADS Make a Difference Summit on June 10th and 11th.

For more details, see ad below.

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d-mars.com May 2022 | 13

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HEALTH & WELLNESS JOURNAL

BIOTECH | BUSINESS | CAREER | EDUCATION | HEALTHY LIFESTYLES | MEDICAL | MENTAL HEALTH | POLICY | RESEARCH | SPORTS MEDICINE

May 2022

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Inspire, Inform & Educate

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30th Edition

6 Steps To Help You Protect Your Vision 16

INSIDE

14

Serena Williams’ Message to Medical Professionals: Listen to Black Women

18

The Role of Pharmacists Is Changing, Here’s What To Know Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

19

How To Encourage Someone To Seek Therapy

14 | May 2022 HEALTH

Serena Williams’ Message to Medical Professionals:

LISTEN TO BLACK WOMEN

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

E

ach year in the United States, about 700 women die during pregnancy or the year after.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, another 50,000 women each year have unexpected labor and delivery outcomes with serious shortor long-term health consequences.

“Every pregnancy-related death is tragic, especially because two in three of them are preventable,” the CDC said as the nation observes Black Maternal Health Week through April 17.

Tennis superstar Serena Williams penned an essay for Elle Magazine’s April issue, in which she shared her personal experience.

She said she was almost one of them.

“I’ve suffered every injury imaginable, and I know my body,” Williams writes in the deeply personal essay, later adding: “Giving birth to my baby, it turned out, was a test for how loud and how often I would have to call out before I was finally heard.”

As Williams recounts, she had a “wonderful pregnancy” with her first child,

Alexis Olympia, and even her epidural-free delivery was going well—at first.

“By the next morning, the contractions were coming harder and faster. With each one, my baby’s heart rate plummeted. I was scared,” the 23-time Grand Slam winner wrote.

“Every time the baby’s heart rate dropped, the nurses would come in and tell me to turn onto my side. The baby’s heart rate would go back up, and everything seemed fine. Then, I’d have another contraction, and baby’s heart rate would drop again, but I’d turn over, and the rate would go back up, and so on and so forth.”

The CDC noted significant disparities in the birthing experience of Black women

in its most recent report.

The agency noted that Black women are three times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause than white women.

The agency said multiple factors contribute to these disparities, such as variation in quality healthcare, underlying chronic conditions, structural racism, and implicit bias.

The CDC added that social determinants of health prevent many people from racial and ethnic minority groups from having fair economic, physical, and emotional health opportunities.

After an emergency C-section, Williams gave birth to her daughter, Alexis.

Afterward, she said she had to fight for her life.

Already classified as a high risk for blood clots, Williams inquired whether she should receive heparin, a blood thinner.

“The response was, ‘Well, we don’t really know if that’s what you need to be on right now,’” Williams wrote.

“No one was really listening to what I was saying.”

Despite excruciating pain, Williams continued to speak out to her health care providers.

At one point, she felt paralyzed.

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“I couldn’t move at all,” she recounted.

Aching and coughing to the point where her C-section stitches burst, Williams complained that she couldn’t breathe.

Four surgeries later, doctors discovered a blood clot in one of her arteries, a hematoma in her abdomen, and other clots.

She said the nurse she had previously spoken with told her that the medicine was making her crazy. Had she gone along with the nurse’s assertions, Williams could have died.

“Being heard and appropriately treated was the difference between life or death for me,” Williams asserted.

“I know those statistics would be different if the medical establishment listened to every Black woman’s experience.”

Source: National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA)

May 2022 | 15

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6 16 | May 2022

HEALTH

Steps To Hel Protect Your 2) Don't dismiss a lack of symptoms

By d-mars.com News Provider

W

hen improving your health and wellness, it's essential to take care of your eyes too. For African Americans, this is especially important because of increased risk factors for eye disease and vision loss.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, glaucoma - a disease that damages the optic nerve and causes vision loss - is three times more likely to occur in African Americans. The risks of glaucoma are magnified further when you consider that the disease strikes, on average, 10 years earlier and progresses faster among African Americans, according to the Glaucoma Research Foundation.

The good news is that with early detection and treatments, including a wide range of eye drop medications, laser treatments, and several types of incisional surgery, the majority of patients with glaucoma maintain their vision. By becoming aware of your risk factors and taking preventive steps, you can help protect your eyes.

1) Finding answers in your genes While the risk factors for eye disease continue to be studied, the ophthalmology community believes genetics can play a role.

"Aside from the access to care challenges that confront members of minority populations, African Americans have a range of genetic predispositions that make them more susceptible to eye diseases such as glaucoma," says Dr. Eydie MillerEllis, professor of clinical ophthalmology and director of the Glaucoma Service at the Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. "This includes an increased risk of high blood pressure, diabetes and other serious medical conditions that can also contribute to poor eye health."

Since glaucoma often develops without symptoms and you can lose vision without noticing it, Miller-Ellis stresses that early action is vital for African Americans to help prevent glaucoma and other eye diseases.

"The increased risk of early-onset glaucoma makes it critical for African Americans to take steps to protect their eye health at a young age," says Miller-Ellis. "Many people are lulled into a sense of complacency when it comes to their vision because they believe they see fine. But a lot of asymptomatic disorders like glaucoma can be damaging your eyesight without you realizing it."

3) Schedule an eye exam Understanding that you are at greater risk for eye disease and vision loss is the starting point toward protecting your eyesight. Begin a routine of yearly dilated eye exams with an ophthalmologist so that vision problems can be detected early. The Glaucoma Research Foundation recommends African Americans get a comprehensive exam to check for glaucoma starting at age 35.

4) No vision plan? No worries

you back from scheduling a screening for glaucoma. Medical eye exams and treatments for eye diseases, including glaucoma, are typically covered by regular health insurance. Check with your healthcare provider for specifics on your level of coverage. In addition, EyeCare America offers medical eye exams with volunteer ophthalmologists across the U.S., often for free.

5) Know your family history Some eye diseases, such as glaucoma, can be hereditary. And for African Americans, the risk of glaucoma is 20% higher if it's already in your family.

"To prioritize healthy vision, it's important to have a complete understanding of your family's history of eye disease," says Dr. Mildred M.G. Olivier, founding regional dean at the School of Medicine, Ponce Health Sciences University, St. Louis campus. "That's why I encourage African American families to not only discuss their individual history of eye disease but also ensure that everyone in the family goes for an annual eye exam."

6) Empower yourself Olivier also encourages people to be their own advocates in breaking down the health inequity barriers for minorities that may stand in the way of better eye health.

"It's important to ask your primary care physician to refer you to an ophthalmologist for an annual medical eye exam," says Olivier. "When you are at the eye doctor's office, make sure you are getting all the information you need and understand all of your options concerning your eyesight and any problems that arise."

Olivier and Miller-Ellis are working to improve access to eye care among minority populations as leaders of the Rabb-Venable Excellence in Ophthalmology Program, which supports minority medical students, residents, and fellows in ophthalmology. The Rabb-Venable program is part of the National Medical Association - Ophthalmology Section and supported by the

Don't let the lack of a vision plan hold

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National Institutes of Health, National Eye Institute.

The Glaucoma Research Foundation offers resources for African Americans to help build a plan for better eye health, including the guide "Understanding and Living with Glaucoma." This free booklet, supported by Aerie Pharmaceuticals, is available at www.glaucoma.org/ booklet.

Source: BPT

May 2022 | 17

lp You ur Vision

HEALTH

OP-ED: Prostate Cancer Rising in Black America

By By Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. President and CEO, NNPA

D

s the United States continues to grapple with its legacy of systemic racism, debates on issues such as police brutality and racial profiling, the economic gulf between Blacks and Whites, and the dearth of access to affordable educational opportunities, there is one area that has received far less attention: The gap in positive health outcomes that African Americans – and particularly Black men – face.

While the COVID-19 pandemic shined a light on these fissures, its beam barely touched the edges of the problem.

Yet according to government data, Black Americans are generally at higher risk for heart diseases, stroke, cancer, asthma, influenza and pneumonia, diabetes, and HIV/ AIDS than their white counterparts. Black people also have the highest death rate and shortest survival of any racial/ethnic group in the United States for most cancers.

These are abhorrent figures any way you look at them, but especially when considering that many of these deadly diseases – at least when detected early – are treatable and survivable. Prostate cancer, for example, has a five-year survival rate for men diagnosed with it of greater than 99 percent if the cancer is detected during the early stage.

Yet, Black men have a 70 percent higher rate of developing prostate cancer than white men, and research from the American Cancer Society found that Black men are more than twice as likely to die from prostate cancer than their White counterparts.

One of the key reasons for these staggering disparities is the fact that Black men are overall less aware of the threat this form of cancer poses to them and have fewer resources available to them to receive testing and monitoring for the disease. Thankfully there are members of the Black community like billionaire investor Robert F. Smith, The Today Show Co-host Al Roker, and activist comedians such as Chris Tucker and Steve Harvey who are raising their voices – and Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

contributing their dollars – to combat this affliction.

Robert Smith, for example, recently donated $4 million of his own money to New York City’s Mount Sinai Medical Center to create the Robert F. Smith Mobile Prostate Cancer Screening Unit. This mobile homesized bus will tour New York City neighborhoods where men are at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer and offer screenings and educational materials about the disease.

This proactive approach that brings diagnosis tools directly to the communities most at risk is the type of action that our nation needs when it comes to battling a disease that more than 13 percent of African American men are expected to develop in their lifetime. But Smith can’t be the only one doing this and New York City cannot be the only place where this type of outreach is occurring.

Whether it is other philanthropists, local or regional health centers, or state and federal officials, there is a desperate need for creative solutions to getting more people screened and saving more lives. Smith’s initiative is an innovative approach, but there are other ways to spread awareness and boost screenings in the Black community.

Whether it be through an advertising and outreach campaign to pop-up health centers and tents, the COVID-19 vaccine push in the Black and other minority communities can serve as a good example of how to quickly and efficiently get more Black men screened for the disease.

For too long, prostate cancer among Black men – and the disparity in health outcomes within the community overall – has remained relatively low profiled, but now we have a way to resolve this issue. The pioneering Black journalist and one of the effective voices and leaders of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), Ida B. Wells said it best, “The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth on them.” It is long overdue to turn on a brighter national light on prostate cancer and Black America.

Source: National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA)

18 | May 2022 HEALTH

HEALTH

The Role of Pharmacists Is Changing, Here’s What To Know By d-mars.com News Provider

N

ew research from the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health finds patients and physicians share widespread trust in pharmacists. This is welcome news as pharmacists in the United States are poised to take on additional responsibilities to help fill the growing care gap expected from health care provider shortages in the next decade.

The Prescription of Trust report is the result of the largest and most comprehensive research study on the future role of pharmacists that incorporates the voice of patients, prescribers, and pharmacists. The study was commissioned by Express Scripts Pharmacy, one of the nation’s largest and most experienced home delivery pharmacies, to understand the expanding role of pharmacists.

“The COVID pandemic has spotlighted pharmacists’ accessibility and the trust people have in them as health care professionals,” said Susan Peppers, RPh, chief pharmacist of Express Scripts Pharmacy, an Evernorth company.

CDC Launches New Center for Forecasting and Outbreak Analytics

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

allowing them to discuss disease and medication management directly with a patient as well as in conjunction with their health care provider team,” explained Peppers.

• Counseling patients: Expect pharmacists to spend more time proactively counseling patients on medications and overall wellness. Telepharmacy is particularly conducive for this level of care as patients are often more comfortable asking questions about their medications from the privacy of home, and without the distractions at a pharmacy counter.

Telepharmacists can take time to answer your medication questions. In fact, according to the study, of pharmacists who use telepharmacy, more than a third say it gives them more time to interact with patients.

Patients are ready… so are prescribers.

Nearly 80% of patients see pharmacists as an integral part of their health care team.

Doctors and other healthcare providers are already turning to pharmacists more often for support -- 72% consider pharmacists to be part of their healthcare team, working together to provide the best care for patients.

“As the shortage of doctors and nurses persists, and as complex new therapies and digital health care technology solutions are developed, the role of the pharmacist will continue to evolve,” said John McHugh, MBA, PhD, an assistant professor in the Department of Health Policy and Management at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health.

The Prescription of Trust: Key Takeaways.

• Taking on a bigger role: In some states, pharmacists can already prescribe certain types of medication. As physician and nurse practitioner shortages escalate, there is a growing movement for pharmacists to receive more training in diagnosing minor and acute conditions and prescribing medication to treat them.

“Beyond dispensing prescription medications and providing medication advice, many of our pharmacists are already specially trained in specific diseases,

• Managing chronic diseases: Estimates predict that by 2025, 164 million Americans will have a chronic disease. As the need to support patients with chronic disease grows, you can expect pharmacists to step up to the plate by serving as specialists who advise patients, or by interacting with a larger health team to manage complex care. At the forefront of this trend are pharmacists in ambulatory clinics, hospitals, and home delivery pharmacies. Indeed, Express Scripts Pharmacy is already supporting patients with such conditions as diabetes, HIV, and cardiovascular conditions through its Therapeutic Resource Centers. In these centers, pharmacists are trained to focus on the treatment and management of specific conditions.

For health care news, along with helpful tips from pharmacists on how to stay safe and healthy, visit Express Scripts Pharmacy at express-scripts.com/pharmacy/blog.

“On the medication front, your pharmacist is a member of your care team who can see you from a 360-degree perspective,” says Peppers. “For this reason, pharmacists have always been uniquely positioned to be a frontline member of your overall health care.”

T

he U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced the launch of the Center for Forecasting and Outbreak Analytics (CFA).

According to a news release, the CFA seeks to enhance the nation’s ability to use data, models, and analytics to enable timely, effective decision-making in response to public health threats for CDC and its public health partners.

CFA’s goals are to improve outbreak response using infectious disease modeling and analytics and to provide support to leaders at the federal, state, and local levels,” officials stated in the release.

They noted that CFA will also develop a program to provide insights about infectious disease events to the public to inform individual decision-making – the equivalent of the National Weather Service for infectious diseases.

“I am excited we have launched CDC’s Center for Forecasting and Outbreak Analytics,” said CDC Director, Dr. Rochelle P. Walensky.

“This new center is an example of how we are modernizing the ways we prepare for and respond to public health threats. I am proud of the work that has come out of this group thus far and eager to see continued innovation in the use of data, modeling, and analytics to improve outbreak responses.”

Walensky added that CFA’s work will be focused on three main pillars: to predict, inform, and innovate.

According to the release, CFA has begun to build a world-class outbreak analytics team with experts across several disciplines to develop faster, richer evidence to predict trends and guide decision-making during emergencies.

Further, to better inform partners, CFA is hiring expert communicators to regularly share insights with federal, state, and local partners and the public.

CFA will also continue to advance the state of the science of outbreak data, models, and analytics to improve the nation’s ability to respond to health emergencies.

“The capabilities and team we are building at the new Center will improve decision-making in a health crisis,” said Dr. Dylan George, Director for Operations.

“I am proud of the CFA team and excited for the future. Better data and analytics will give us better responses to protect all Americans.”

Planning for CFA began in August 2021, with the initial funding of $200 million from the American Rescue Plan Act. Thus far, the CDC has awarded $26 million in funding to academic institutions and federal partners to advance modeling and forecasting methodology, with an emphasis on workforce development and health equity.

In December 2021, CFA worked with academic partners to assemble models anticipating the Omicron wave and generated early estimates of Omicron severity, giving leaders an opportunity to bolster the response.

For more information on CFA, visit www.cdc.gov/CFA.

Source: StatePoint

Source: National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA)

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May 2022 | 19 HEALTH

713.597.4499 877.214.5758

theallencg@gmail.com www.allencounselinggroup.com

How To Encourage Someone To Seek Therapy atching someone struggle with their mental health and not knowing how to help is one of the most challenging experiences.

It is natural to want to encourage them to seek professional help and while some are willing to seek therapy, others remain resistant to the suggestion. If you want to encourage someone to seek therapy here is how to approach the subject with sensitivity, concern, and respect for their feelings.

conversation about seeking therapy.

While some partners are agreeable, others are resistant. The partner suggesting therapy must approach the subject from the perspective of their experience of the problem(s) and how therapy can benefit the relationship. Side note- most couples describe poor communication as the basis of the problem.

Couples therapy teaches how to use “I” statements, remove the emotion, remain focused on the topic while avoiding defensiveness and personal attacks, and how to listen with patience and understanding of the other person’s perspective of the experience. Remaining positive about the benefits of resolving problems can help couples grow together.

Timingisiseverything everything Timing

Knowwhen whento tolet letititgo go Know

Choosing an opportune time when the person may be most receptive to talk about it is the key which sometimes means during the time of crisis. Outside of the crisis is an opportunity to educate them about the process, help them find a therapist, and even share your personal experience on help therapy may have helped you.

Forcing someone to go to therapy when they are not ready can cause more resistance. When you have done all you can to encourage and provide information, the other person must be ready and willing to make the decision to accept professional help. The most important thing is to preserve the trust in the relationship and be ready to go if

President, Lead Therapist and Mediator at Allen Counseling Group, PLLC.

Tami V. Allen, MS, LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor approved by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Licensed Professional Counselors.

Contributing Writer

Texas Certified Mediator - Parenting agreements and relationship dissolution.

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

Specializing in Relationship and Self-Improvement counseling for an exclusive clientele of: - professionals - entrepreneurs - celebrities - athletes Desire Full Confidentiality while working through personal challenges.

No worries about sitting in an office wondering who may “see you” because we offer Tele-Conferencing from the location of your convenience. speciali in working with couples, While I specialize I also work with individuals who want to improve their self-esteem and achieve their personal goals.

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

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Dr. Mikenah Joyy and Dr. Simone Ellis

Let the person know you want to help based on your observation of their behaviors while being careful not to convey judgment. Ask questions and be patient while listening to the responses being given. Let them know how therapy could potentially benefit them by addressing their concerns and communicate your desire to see them mentally and emotionally well.

Address fears and misconceptions Some of the fears and concerns people express for not seeking therapy are cost, lack of insurance, bad experiences in the past, timing, and lack of understanding of the value of talking things out with a “stranger.” These are all reasonable concerns to be addressed. Validate concerns, provide personal referrals, explain how insurance works or refer them to free community services and emphasize the value of talking to a professional versus family/friends. Many therapists offer hybrid services (office or virtual) for privacy and convenience.

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For couples...

Usually, one person leads the

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or when the other person comes ar ound.

Until then, focus on your own personal growth. When the other person sees positive changes in you, this may be the encouragement they need to finally seek help for themself.

I work with many couples who have a partner resistant to therapy, and I tell them to encourage the other to seek one session. Once they feel comfortable enough in the first session, that will usually get the ball rolling.

For more information about me and my services, please visit my website at www.AllenCounselingGroup.com. You can also reach me by email at Tami@ AllenCounselingGroup.com or by phone at 713-597-4499.

Like and follow the Allen Counseling Group on social media: FB: @AllenCounseling2017 IG: @AllenCounselingGroup Twitter: @CounselingAllen

20 | May 2022

You can help prevent

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

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

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May 2022 | 21

Study: Race Is Central to Identity for BLACK AMERICANS and Affects How They Connect

COMMUNITY

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior

N

o matter where they are from, who they are, their economic circumstances, or educational backgrounds, significant majorities of Black Americans say being Black is extremely or very important to how they think about themselves.

A new Pew Research poll revealed that a significant share of Black Americans also says that when something happens to Black people in their local communities, across the nation, or around the globe, it affects what happens in their own lives, highlighting a sense of connectedness.

“Black Americans say this even as they have diverse experiences and come from an array of backgrounds,” the authors of the poll noted.

“Even so, Black adults who say being Black is important to their sense of self are more likely than other Black adults to feel connected to other groups of Black people,” the authors discovered.

“They are also more likely to feel that what happens to Black people inside and outside the United States affects what happens in their own lives.”

The Pew Research Center conducted an analysis online between Oct. 4, 2021, and Oct. 17, 2021.

The organization surveyed 3,912 Black U.S. adults and explored differences among Black Americans in views of identity such as between U.S.-born Black people and Black immigrants; Black people living in different regions of the country; and between Black people of different ethnicities, political party affiliations, ages, and income levels.

Most non-Hispanic Black Americans (78 percent) reported that being Black is very or extremely important to how they think about themselves.

This racial group counted as the largest among Black adults, accounting for 87 percent of the adult population, according to 2019 Census Bureau estimates.

But among other Black Americans, roughly six-in-ten multiracial (57 percent) and Hispanic (58 percent) Black adults reported the same.

According to the 2020 U.S. Census, the nation’s Black population stands at 47 million, or 14 percent of the country’s population.

The survey authors reported that while the vast majority of Black Americans said their racial background is Black alone (88 percent in 2020), growing numbers are also multiracial or Hispanic.

Mo s t we re born in the U.S. and trace their roots back several generations in the count r y , but a

growing share is immigrants (12 percent) or the U.S.born children of immigrant parents (9 percent).

Geographically, while 56 percent of Black Americans live in the nation’s South, the national Black population has also dispersed widely across the country, researchers reported.

The report noted that Black Americans also differ in significant ways in their views about the importance of being Black to personal identity.

While majorities of all age groups of Black people say being Black shapes how they think about themselves, younger Black Americans are less likely to respond the same.

Black adults ages 50 and older are more likely than Black adults ages 18 to 29 to say that being Black is very or extremely important to how they think of themselves.

Specifically, 76 percent of Black adults ages 30 to 49, 80 percent of those 50 to 64 and 83 percent of those 65 and older hold this view, while only 63 percent of those under 30 reported that belief.

Black adults who identify with or lean toward the Democratic Party are more likely than those who identify with or lean toward the Republican Party to say being Black is important to how they see themselves – 86 percent vs. 58 percent.

And Black women (80 percent) are more likely than Black men (72 percent) to say being Black is important to how they see themselves.

The report found that some subgroups of Black Americans are about as likely as others to say that being Black is very or extremely important to how they think about themselves.

According to the survey, U.S.-born and immigrant Black adults are about as likely to say being Black is important to how they see their identity.

However, not all Black Americans feel the same about the importance of being Black to their identity – 14 percent say it is only somewhat important to how they see themselves while 9 percent say it has little or no impact on their personal identity, reflecting the diversity of views about identity among Black Americans.

Amongthe themain mainhighlights highlights Among from the report include: from the report include: • About half of Black adults say their fates are strongly linked with other Black people in the U.S. • Most Black adults say being Black is very important to how they see themselves • Black Americans who say being Black is important to them are more likely to feel connected to other Black people.

• Black adults who say being Black is important to them are more likely to learn about their ancestors from relatives.

• Black adults under 30 years old differ significantly from older Black adults in their views on the importance of Blackness to their personal identity.

• However, Black adults also differ by age in how they pursue knowledge of family history, how informed they feel about U.S. Black history, and their sense of connectedness to other Black people.

• Black Democrats are more likely than Republicans to say what happens to other Black people in the U.S. will affect their own lives.

• Half of Black adults say where they currently live is an important part of their identity.

• Majorities of Black adults say their gender and sex uality are very important to them.

• Black women are more likely than Black men to say their gender is very important to them.

For the full report, please visit www.pewresearch.org.

Source: National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA)

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22 | May 2022 EDUCATION & CAREER

Texas Southern Investiture of 13th President,

Dr. Lesia L. Crumpton-Young

By d-mars.com News Provider

T

exas Southern University formally swore in its 13th President, Dr. Lesia L. Crumpton-Young, as part of the Investiture ceremony on Saturday, April 30, 2022. An investiture is typically held within a president’s first year in office, representing a significant milestone in the history of Texas Southern University, as it is one of the oldest traditions in academia. President Crumpton-Young’s Investiture honors TSU’s academic tradition, celebrating its institutional history and symbolizing a new era of transformation in the life of the University.

At the Investiture ceremony, Albert H. Myres, chair of the TSU Board of Regents, served as the presiding officer. In addition to greetings and presentations from elected officials, including U.S. Representatives Sheila Jackson Lee, Al Green, and Sylvia Garcia, and Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, former colleagues and mentors were on hand to provide their perspective on President Crumpton-Young's innovation, transformation and disruption throughout her career.

TSU faculty, staff, students and alumni were also represented during the investiture.

TSU Regents Marc C. Carter and Carolyn Baker Hurley administered the oath of office to President Crumpton-Young.

During her remarks, President Crumpton-Young spoke of the 'Crumpton Guarantee,' which she originally created as a faculty member, promising to her students that she would give everything she had to help ensure their success in her classes.

"To every student, every faculty member, every staff member, every alumnus, every community supporter, and, yes, the individuals I am accountable to on a day-to-day basis, the Board of Regents, I leave you with what I always gave (to my students): I guarantee that I will always be a president that leads with integrity, that subscribes to excellence, and that will always be committed to serve," said President Crumpton-Young. "I promise that I will wake up every day focused on transforming lives. You can count on the 'Crumpton Guarantee.'"

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May 2022 | 23

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24 | May 2022 EDUCATION & CAREER

CONGRATULAT to these graduates and all the young scholars in Nicholas

Carroll

Q: What college are you attending?

NC: I plan on attending Southern University.

Q: With your hard work and diligence to get to this point, what does National Signing Day mean for you?

NC: This means so much, as it brings joy to my parents and family as they see me blessed to continue my journey in life and take another step.

Q: Are there any mentors/teachers/coaches whom you want to mention and advice they have given you that has been helpful for you?

NC: There are too many people to name.

All the adults and friends who have been there at my lowest to help me prevail, I am grateful for them being by my side and getting me through challenges that I might not have made it through without their encouragement.

Q: Are there any special awards/honors/ accolades/achievements received that you want to mention?

NC: I lettered in academics 2 times in high school and as a student-athlete. This proves that I am more than just an athlete and that there is a deeper surface than what people think.

Q: Are there any clubs/organizations/ activities that you are a part of that you want to mention?

NC: I want to mention EMBODI and Omega Lamplighters. I want to thank them for teaching me how to become the man I am today and giving me valuable life lessons that I will use for the rest of my life.

Q: College is a different environment than high school. How will you prepare to adapt, not only academically, but mentally to have a successful college experience? Academically NC: I have taken AP and dual credit classes, so hopefully the speed and curriculum will not be too vigorous. As long as I stay focused and have good time management, there should not be a problem.

Q: You can go into college with a certain major or career in mind, but are you open to change and have an understanding that as you mature and experience different things your career choice will change?

NC: Not really. I am confident that the plan I picked and the outline I have for the next 4 years will help me get closer to my goals to excel in life and at my dream job.

Q: After graduating from college, in

addition to a great education, what else do you hope to gain as far as personal development during your college experience?

NC: I want to experience life without my parents. My parents have been there from the moment I was born and I am forever grateful, but they did such a good job raising me that I want to go out into the world and make them proud, showing people what a great young man they have raised.

Q: How does it feel that you are able to go to college, being that there are many young people who can’t afford to go to college, and don’t have scholarships, resources, or support to encourage them in their academics?

NC: It is a blessing that my hard work has paid off, having the privilege to earn scholarships.

Q: Do you feel that you have a responsibility to do your best and not take this opportunity

for gra nted, being that your generation will continue to keep our communities strong?

NC: Yes! It is my job to take my education seriously and make sure I finish with a degree.

Q: How do you plan to give back to the community, perform community service, and volunteer during college and after you receive your education?

NC: I will participate in projects and join organizations as much as I can with my class schedule. I want to be able to make a difference in my community.

Q: Is there a special “thank you” that you want to say to your parent/ parents/guardian?

NC: To all my family, I am forever grateful. Your belief in me, even when I did not believe in myself is the reason I am here today. I could not have done it without you and I promise I will accomplish everything I set out to do and make you proud.

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Milan

Comeaux

Q: What college are you attending?

MC: I will be attending The University of Alabama.

Q: With your hard work and diligence to get to this point, what does National Signing Day mean for you?

MC: I am so proud of the effort that I have made to get to this point and how I have pushed myself to earn an opportunity to attend such a great university. I learned that hard work does indeed pay off.

Q: Are there any mentors/teachers/ coaches whom you want to mention and advice they have given you that has been helpful for you?

MC: My leadership training coach

May 2022 | 25

TIONS

our community!

EDUCATION & CAREER

a successful college experience?

MC: Speaking with my parents, family members, and older friends who have gone before me can give me insight into what to expect from the college experience. I also plan to use to my advantage my study skills and the lessons I’ve learned in time management.

Q: You can go into college with a certain major or career in mind, but are you open to change and have an understanding that as you mature and experience different things your career choice will change?

MC: I feel certain about my career choice. However, I have learned to keep an open mind and I will always challenge myself to grow and learn from new experiences.

Q: After graduating from college, in addition to a great education, what else do you hope to gain as far as personal development during your college experience?

MC: I hope to learn more about various cultures, ethnicities, and people from different backgrounds. I hope to establish great relationships and lifelong friendships.

Q: How does it feel that you are able to go to college, being that there are many young people who can’t afford to go to college, and don’t have scholarships, resources, or support to encourage them in their academics?

MC: I feel so blessed and thankful for the opportunities that I have and I realize how fortunate I am. I am happy that I have the support system that I have. I feel that I am obligated to take advantage of these opportunities.

Photographer : MsKayVisuals

always said, "If you're early, you’re on time; if you're on time, you're late." My track coach always promoted hard work. He said, “You don’t work, you don’t eat!”

Q: Are there any special awards/honors/ accolades/achievements received that you want to mention?

MC: I participated in the Leaders of Tomorrow program and my team won the 2021 regional business case competition. I was also a part of the leadership advisory board for Leaders of Tomorrow. I am the Vice President of the first African American step club at Katy High School. I was also proud to serve at Katy Christian Ministries.

Q: Are there any clubs/organizations/ activities that you are a part of that you want to mention?

MC: The Leaders of Tomorrow Program, Katy High School Track Team, and Katy High School’s Step Team.

Q: College is a different environment than high school. How will you prepare to adapt, not only academically, but mentally to have

Q: Do you feel that you have a responsibility to do your best and not take this opportunity for gra nted, being that your generation will continue to keep our communities strong?

MC: I certainly feel a responsibility to work as hard as possible to achieve my goals. Leading by example, hopefully, I can encourage others to make positive contributions to their communities.

Q: How do you plan to give back to the community, perform community service, and volunteer during college and after you receive your education?

MC: I will continue to perform community service and try to help those who are less fortunate than me.

I take a lot of pride in giving back and community service is a great way to help those in need. Also, community service is a tool I can use, applying what I learned in school to the real world.

Q: Is there a special “thank you” that you want to say to your parent/ parents/guardian?

MC: I want to say thank you to my

amazing parents for providing a great example and environment. You guys always instilled in me to have a great attitude and work ethic. Thank you for loving me unconditionally and praying for me every step of the way.

Parker

Reed

Q: What college are you attending?

PR: LSU Q: With your hard work and diligence to get to this point, what does National Signing Day mean for you?

PR: National Signing Day for me means that I can celebrate my accomplishments. I can truly take a moment to think about and celebrate all that God has brought me through and all the work that I’ve done to get to this point. I’m attending my dream school and studying my passion. All of that I couldn’t have done without God. Secondly, I get to celebrate with my closest friends from way back when, and now we all have the opportunity to be great at what we love to do. It’s truly inspiring.

Q: Are there any mentors/teachers/ coaches whom you want to mention and advice they have given you that has been helpful for you? Firstly, PR: I’d like to shout out my secondgrade teacher Ms. Fields for showing me that working hard is more important than talent. I’d like to shout out my Little League football coach Rod Kinney for reminding me that effort can’t be taught. And lastly, I’d like to shout out my dear friend the late Reverend Christopher Maxie for showing me how to let God use me rather than me trying to run the show.

Q: Are there any special awards/ honors/accolades/achievements received that you want to mention?

PR: I’d like to mention my 2nd Team All-District linebacker honor for football. Also, I successfully completed two mission trips in Haiti and performed over 100 volunteer hours.

Q: Are there any clubs/organizations/ activities that you are a part of that you want to mention?

PR: I’d like to mention Boy Scouts and Leaders of Tomorrow.

Q: College is a different environment than high school. How will you prepare to adapt, not only academically, but mentally to have a successful college experience?

PR: In high school, I took a few college-level courses so I have an idea of how it might be, but in terms of being able to adapt, I think asking

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questions is going to be very important to my success. As my network grows, my resources will as well, and asking the questions I need to be answered will allow me to do my best academically and professionally.

Q: You can go into college with a certain major or career in mind, but are you open to change and have an understanding that as you mature and experience different things your career choice will change?

PR: I’m open to change. Plans always change so I think I’ll be able to do what I love in the end and do it for the glory of God, which is most important to me.

Q: After graduating from college, in addition to a great education, what else do you hope to gain as far as personal development during your college experience?

PR: I hope to gain lifelong friends, knowledge of different cultures, tons of memories, and lastly, maturity.

Q: How does it feel that you are able to go to college, being that there are many young people who can’t afford to go to college, and don’t have scholarships, resources, or support to encourage them in their academics?

PR: I feel blessed. Knowing that people are less fortunate than I am has motivated me to succeed so that one day I can provide others with opportunities that I’ve been blessed with. Being an inspiration to those who dream to be in my shoes is something that makes me who I am.

Q: Do you feel that you have a responsibility to do your best and not take this opportunity for gra nted, being that your generation will continue to keep our communities strong?

PR: Taking this opportunity for granted is not an option. Being able to take advantage of all the opportunities I have is a must because as minorities we don’t get the same amount as our white counterparts.

Being an inspiration to other people who look like me is my goal.

• How do you plan to give back to the community, perform community service, and volunteer during college and after you receive your education?

PR: I plan to give back through philanthropy and volunteer work.

Q: Is there a special “thank you” that you want to say to your parent/ parents/guardian?

PR: I want to thank my parents for supporting me through everything, exposing me to the things of this world, and teaching me how to be a respectful young Black man who loves God.

26 | May 2022 EDUCATION & CAREER

Verizon, Houston Fund for Social Justice and Economic Equity Fuel TSU Entrepreneurship Education Crumpton-Young referenced the excitement and interest of TSU students for entrepreneurial activities and resources that will help them launch their own businesses.

"It will be a university initiative, but it will be focused on enhancing the community. This gift, this partnership, will help us to ensure that small businesses in our community will be successful."

Gerald Smith, Chairman Emeritus of the TSU Foundation, as well as a TSU graduate and successful business entrepreneur, seconded President Crumpton-Young's statement.

He believes that TSU's Jesse H. Jones School of Business, which includes the Gerald E. Smith Center for Entrepreneurship, will be a conduit for nurturing small business development.

"I want to thank Verizon for supporting this cause, and we look forward to making a difference in our communities (with this funding)."

Mayor Turner initiated the Fund in 2021 with the goal of raising $25 million to invest resources into nonprofits and small businesses that uplift and empower the Black community.

By d-mars.com News Provider

T

SU welcomed Verizon and the Houston Fund for Social Justice and Economic Equity (The Fund) on campus recently to announce a $300,000 grant that will support transformative learning for TSU students and the community.

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, along with Rose Stucky Kirk, President of the Verizon Foundation, and Thomas Jones, Board President of the Houston Fund, joined TSU President Dr. Lesia Crumpton-Young, as well as TSU Regent Stephanie NellonsPaige, for the ceremony.

The grant involves a two-pronged collaboration between non-profits that are served by the Fund and TSU, which will utilize the funding to provide new programming for entrepreneurship and financial literacy, especially in communities of color and diverse-owned small businesses within the community.

"Today is an example of what true partnerships can mean on a college campus," said Dr. Crumpton-Young. "We are going to serve the underserved as they have never been served, and this partnership will allow us to do this."

Source: Texas Southern University

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May 2022 | 27

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28 | May 2022 FINANCE

Faith, Family & Finances

By James Marshall Contributing Writer

O

ne you choose, one you are born into, and the other you earn (well most of us have to earn it).

First is faith.

Faith is the assurance that the things revealed and promised in the Word are true, even though unseen, and gives the believer a conviction that he expects in faith, will come to pass. In other words: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” - Hebrews 11:1 Throughout your wealth-building journey, you will come across obstacles that seem insurmountable; barriers that appear to be too high to climb.

For example: • • • • •

Job loss Loan denials Unexpected bills Health problems Accidents

These barriers will come when you are tired and discouraged and when your level of discouragement is high and your will is low. You may begin to look at what

others have or appear to have and wonder: • • • •

What is wrong with me?

Why can’t I get out of debt?

Why can’t I build up savings?

When will I stop living paycheck to paycheck?

The Brookings Institute’s Hamilton Project found in their 2019 Survey of Consumer Finances that the wealth gap between Black and white households is staggering. Their research reveals that the median household net worth for Black families is $24,100 versus $188,200 for white households.

To me, this is as the saying goes, “same story, different day.”

I can understand how this type of report and all the media discussion about it can be overwhelming. And it is during this period of uncertainty that you can fall victim to schemes, cons, and empty promises. Well, at this time, I suggest you just stand still for a minute and evaluate your situation.

What is really happening? What is the real problem that is hindering your progress at this moment? Some questions to ask: • Is it unemployment or under-employment?

• Is it cash flow management? Are you spending more than you are making?

• Is your lack of savings leading to your increasing debt?

“You don’t have enough faith,” Jesus told them. “I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, ‘Move

from here to there,’ and it would move.

Nothing would be impossible.”

Matthew 17:20 Second is family.

No man is an island. And no one gets there alone. The phrase, “It takes a village,” is certainly overused and underutilized.

Just remember that at the center of that village is a single-family, traditional, or modern. And building sustainable, generational wealth should involve the entire family.

The leaders of the family are responsible for establishing the process, as well as developing and educating family members to take on various roles in managing and growing the family’s wealth. That means retaining professionals such as a financial advisor, CPA, attorney, and even a therapist.

Every member has a role in the process of building family wealth: • • • •

Contributing Managing Protecting Transferring

Every family member needs to see the big picture and take ownership of the long-term wealth goals of the family.

Establishing a private family bank owned by a family trust makes it perpetual. Funding it with monthly contributions from family members and life insurance proceeds makes it viable.

But if there is no emotional commitment, structure, documentation, or comprehensive financial plan, the efforts will

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be in vain.

And finally, there is finance.

No matter how hard it has been in the past or how bleak it looks now, just know that every problem has a solution. And the solution is based on commitment, cooperation, organization, and action.

Here are some tips: • Establish the family’s vision of wealth • Assess the family’s combined income and expenses • Identify what accounts or funds can be transferred from individual accounts to the family bank, and this should not cause financial hardship to the individuals.

• Setup the family trust and place the ownership of all savings, investments, and insurance policies in the name of the trust.

• Layout the family foundation’s structure such as executive director, secretary, treasurer, committee members, etc.

• Committees should meet at least quarterly, and the whole family should meet annually.

So remember, a journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. Start on your journey of wealth today.

James Marshall is a registered investment advisor registered in Texas and Kentucky. He can be reached at James@Marshallyourmoney.com.

Visit him on the web at Marshallyourmoney.com.

May 2022 | 29 REAL ESTATE

Affording a Down Payment May Be Easier Than You Think By d-mars.com News Provider

I

f you’re ready to buy your first home but are short on the down payment, you’re not alone.

Affording a down payment is the number one barrier to homeownership, and rising housing costs are presenting even bigger hurdles.

The August 2021 Freddie Mac Housing Price Index showed a 19.67% year-overyear increase in home values. At the same time, more than 35% of non-homeowners say they do not have enough money to put toward a down payment, according to NerdWallet.

Among millennials, the figures are even more disheartening, with 63% having set aside no money for a down payment.

But there’s good news. Down payment assistance programs, an often-overlooked resource, could be the missing piece of the financial puzzle to make your dream of homeownership a reality, and there are more than 2,500 such programs nationwide.

AccordingtotoFreddie FreddieMac, Mac,here’s According here’s how to take advantage how to take advantage of down of down assistance: payment assistance: payment • Understand the different types of help. Down payment assistance can take many forms, including grants from federal agencies, employers, community organizations, state and local housing finance agencies, and state and local governments. There are also a number of down payment assistance loans available with attractive terms. For example, deferred payment second loans. These are secondary loans for which payments are not due until you sell, refinance or pay off the first mortgage loan. And for those looking to live in a rural area, USDA rural home loans are a favorable option, because they have no down payment requirement.

Tax credits are another form of assistance. Certain states and local governments, including housing

finance agencies, issue mortgage credit certificates that reduce the amount of federal income tax you pay. This makes more money available upfront for your down payment or closing costs.

Freddie Mac offers consumer financial education, through its free CreditSmart online training course, which can help you learn about and qualify for other down payment assistance and help you purchase a new home.

• Determine your eligibility. Although eligibility requirements vary depending on the program, most down payment assistance programs have income eligibility requirements based on you as an individual borrower or your household. In addition, you usually must use the funds for your primary residence and be a first-time homebuyer.

• Get started. Identify available programs by checking out trusted resources, including HUD’s directory of state programs and Down Payment Resource. Your housing counselor or lender can also help you determine which programs you’re eligible for and work with the program’s administrator to help you secure financial assistance.

• Get help. The homebuying journey is complex, so don’t be afraid to seek expert help. Freddie Mac Borrower Help Centers and HUD-certified housing counselors can help you navigate the homebuying journey, make informed decisions along the way and ensure you’re financially prepared for longterm, successful homeownership. In addition to being trained to provide budget and credit advice, housing counselors can also provide guidance on the different types of mortgage assistance programs that may be right for you. To learn more, visit myhome. freddiemac.com.

If a down payment seems out of reach, don’t despair. Assistance programs could make your dreams of homeownership a reality, and housing counselors can help you find the right one for you.

Source: StatePoint

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30 | May 2022 REAL ESTATE

5 Exterior Home Upgrades That Deliver a Return on Investment By d-mars.com News Provider

W

ant to make some serious exterior home upgrades that improve your safety and comfort, add beauty to your home and deliver a return on your investment? Here are five projects that do just that: 1. Install storm doors: Storm doors give you the option of letting in more light and ventilation on fair weather days while protecting your entry door from harsh conditions and weathering. There are many ways to customize this upgrade to meet your aesthetic and functional needs. Options from ProVia include retractable screens at the top and bottom for more venting options, as well as stylish designs and colors for instant curb appeal. Families might want to consider storm doors featuring heavy-duty, non-removable stainless steel screens ideal for keeping children and pets safely inside.

2. Get summer-ready: Extend your home’s outdoor living area just in time for summer -- plus substantially increase your home value -- with the addition of a deck, patio or porch. Whether you add a small hibachi grill or get as involved as installing a full outdoor kitchen, be sure to include an area to prepare and enjoy meals.

A few key touches, like string lights and potted plants, along with cozy furniture, can make the space feel homey.

3. Replace patio doors: If your patio doors are drafty or get stuck easily, it may be time for an ENERGY STAR-certified replacement. Endure sliding glass patio doors from ProVia come standard with ComforTech Warm Edge Glazing, a high-tech glass package that measurably improves thermal performance for greater efficiency and reduced interior condensation. These doors

also have increased sound abatement and meet the most stringent industry standards for storm protection, ease of entry, and forced entry. Additionally, options for interior woodgrain and exterior paint colors, varying internal grid styles and patterns, and multiple choices for decorative glass, internal blinds, and hardware allow for customization to fit your personal aesthetic.

4. Lower bills: Did you know that you can lower your bills and add natural beauty and privacy to your property by planting trees strategically? In summer, the shade that trees create can help keep your home cool.

In winter, they can help block wind and prevent drafts.

The Utah State University Forest Extension recommends locating trees no closer than 2.5 times their mature height to the south of a building to avoid winter shading. They also suggest knowing the size and other characteristics of a particular species before planting to avoid future problems, such as hitting power lines.

The insulation contributes to the rigidity of the panel, increases durability, and provides five times greater impact resistance over hollow siding, protecting against damage by hail, high winds, or contact with your child’s fastball.

Color and beauty are also huge factors in this home improvement decision; CedarMAX offers many options to customize the look with both neutral and bold colors and coordinated accessories. It’s resistant to fading, chalking, cracking, peeling, and thermal expansion and contraction, making it a sound investment for years to come.

It’s important to see a tangible return on larger home upgrades. The best projects to consider are those that increase your home value, save you money, and add beauty and comfort to your home.

Source: StatePoint

5. Protect your home: If you live in an area prone to extreme weather -- heavy rain, hail, driving wind, frigid temperatures, or scorching heat -- your home needs protection against the elements. CedarMAX insulated vinyl siding provides defense against these harsh conditions and improves energy efficiency as well.

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May 2022 | 31

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