Lifestyle @ The Intersection: March 2024

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LIFESTYLE IINTERSECTION NTERSECTION

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Mindful Economics From The Bottom Up

Lifestyle @ The Intersection is a quarterly digital publication prioritizing self-care and economics. The magazine intersects spirit, mind, body, family and lifestyles, we write about real estate and small business sustainability, it's the economics that lifts the social tides!

The editorial mission is to stimulate creative thinking and responsible (quality) journalism to the approach of closing the economic disparities that prevents individuals from upward mobility, particularly, but not exclusively, in the black community!

Lifestyle @ The Intersection is part of, CVIC is a community of ventures.

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Corey Oliver

Dr. Roxanne Spurlark

Anthony Oliver, Publisher

Dr. Molly KachaleNetter

Markeyla Henton Nicholas Arthur

Tisha Jones, Contributor

By Anthony Oliver Publisher/Founder

In the late 90’s, Ruthie Brown, a Streetwise newspaper sales team vendor, walked into my office. I could see her struggling to hold back tears. Ruthie had always been our rock, our inspiration, and our joy. This strong black woman, who spent her entire adult life battling homelessness, was now in another the fight for her life, she had advanced late-stage breast cancer. Ruthie died shortly after informing me.

A true Streetwise Story.

RIP Ruthie Brown

My mother, Rose, was a single mother for most of my life. She spent all her time striving to get out of poverty. After a long battle with high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease, Rose died at the age of 76. As her primary caretaker, I have direct experience with navigating the healthcare options in my community a system that wrote her off as terminal fifteen years prior to her passing. If not for taking her outside our community health options to get better diagnosis, my mother would’ve likely passed much earlier. My mother’s health is my wealth. True Story.

RIP Momma Rose

Access to good medical care is just as difficult to access to capital (money) for real estate investment in our community. However, we are not powerless. So, I am dedicating the March edition of Lifestyle @ The Intersection to the launch of the “Economic Movement from the Bottom up” The goal of this movement is for communities to develop a formula for “sustainable” open market tax-supporting small businesses as well as not-for-profit social services. I call it “the economic lifts the social fabric approach,” and it must be delivered in that order!

EMPOWERING THE COMMNUITY FOR BETTER HEALTH CARE!

Like Real Estate, the health care markets represent more than 3 trillion dollars. A 2020 by McKensey & Company states that poor health costs the US economy an estimated 3 2 trillion dollars We are spending lots of money and getting sicker Black and brown communities are NOT getting quality health care despite rising costs of health care. Why are we not demanding better health care options?

I honor Ruthie and my mother Rose, both of whom experienced the challenges of not having the financial means for the medical care they needed I lived their struggle and helplessly felt their pain! I’m compelled to change the narrative in hopes leaving my community a better place.

To me, it’s as serious as the George Floyd or Joseph Gould protest (killing of a homeless Streetwise vendor in 1995 a very large and successful protest I led). I see clinics closing in large numbers in my community. I’m not sure of what’s happening but I’m sure that our demand for accessible, and affordable quality health care has not diminished! The answers

we are seeking begin with our commitment to listen to those on the front lines of taking care of US, namely the nurse practitioners. (Please don’t get me wrong, I have great MD, he reviews, explain, and give me preventative solutions every visit with him. I am grateful for him.)

Nurse practitioners in the US-Market size, according to IBISWorld, is a 53 6B dollar market Of course, that means a lot of things, but one thing is for sure these are some very important people within the industry. If we are to strengthen our economics from the bottom up, it would be advantageous to hear what they have to say.

Our March edition features two awesome black female nurse practitioners; one a scientist and one clinical. They’ve agreed to become regular contributors to Lifestyle @ The Intersection. Let’s meet Dr. Molly Molly Kachale-Netter, PH.D, MSN, APN. FNPC. BSN. BSC and Dr. Roxanne Spurlark, DNP. RN. APRN-C. Both are Advanced Practice Clinicians/ Providers, also called Advanced Practice Family Nurse Practitioners Dr Spurlark holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice (clinical), and Dr Molly KachaleNetter holds a Doctor of Philosophy (research) They are both nationally certified, with full autonomy to practice family medicine independently to its fullest scope in Illinois. The duo shares a commonality in clinical practice and academics. Due to their nursing background, which is a clinical model that leans towards disease prevention and health protection, their medical practice model is an

integration of philosophies, also called functional medicine. This model goes beyond the conventional treatment of diseases as it seeks to understand the root cause of the problem and attempts to address those issues, not just mask symptoms. They augment each other as a duo by bridging the gaps between evidence, clinical practice, and academia Their multifaceted backgrounds bring a 360 panorama of powerful evidence-based medicine in the postCOVID-19 pandemic era.

Dr. Molly Kachale-Netter will be front and center in this edition. Her current research interest is HIV prevention using chemoprophylaxis (PrEp). Her population of interest is women in underserved communities. She is also interested in incorporating social determinants of health in her work. The COVID-19 pandemic challenged scientific protocols, especially the time it takes to generate and translate evidence into practice and the need for direct community involvement. Trained by scientists at the forefront of the pandemic's mitigation, Dr. KachaleNetter understands the navigation between rebuilding and preparing for future pandemics in a constantly evolving world She has published works on HIV prevention, diabetes prevention and management, and COVID-19 pandemic perspectives.

KNOWLEDGE IS THE FIRST STEP IN OUR ECONOMIC MOVEMENT

As the multitrillion dollar healthcare industry continues to evolve, we must empower ourselves to learn about our healthcare system for the present and for our next generation We MUST think differently about how to invest in our communities to improve access to capital for healthcare and real estate Knowledge is our power Lifestyle @ The Intersection has officially launched the “ECONOMIC MOVEMENT FROM THE BOTTOM UP”. It’s time to get on board and grow people with our community, so subscribe and advertise now. Together, let’s move to greater levels of self-sufficiency and stability.

Dr.RoxanneSpurlark,DNP,APRN-FPA, FNP-C

In the realm of healthcare, my journey has been one of innovation, dedication, and leadership, which is held as a testament to over three decades of commitment to enhancing patient care and healthcare standards. As a doctorally prepared and nationally board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with full practice authority, my path has been shaped by a relentless pursuit of excellence in clinical practice, leadership, and advocacy. Having over 60,000 hours in healthcare delivery and elevating team performances, it is a pleasure to be here with you to share what is new and promising as we navigate the new beginnings after the pandemic.

Holding a Doctorate in Nursing Practice with a specialty in healthcare systems leadership, I've been privileged to lead advocacy and policy development efforts, driving the sustainability of healthcare organizations at both the local and national levels. My full practice authority as a nurse practitioner positions me to operate independently and has empowered me to deliver comprehensive care to my patients, from conducting in-depth assessments to crafting and managing detailed treatment plans, always prioritizing their well-being and health outcomes.

My blend of education and experience have put me in a unique position to help shape the future of healthcare, not just in treating patients one-on-one but also in making bigger changes that affect entire communities from an impact that is inclusive. I can see a patient, figure out what they need, and create a plan to help them feel better, always making their health and happiness my top priority.

My work also extends beyond clinical care arena into research, legal consultation, and a deep commitment to serving underserved communities though mindset and resilience coaching. Employing a qualitative, exploratory approach in my research, I've highlighted best practices as it relates to complex healthcare issues, offering answers that make impact in realworld settings. As a Nurse Legal Consultant, I bridge nursing and law, guiding legal matters and shaping policies to promote zero-error

environments. Born and raised on the south side of Chicago in the Bronzeville community, I've focused my efforts on providing emergency services through safety net organizations and primary care in my independent practice, empowering individuals that share my same humble beginnings to take control of their health.

My proudest moment thus far in my career is being afforded the opportunity to present to psychologists from around the world at Harvard University about the traumas that the COVID-19 pandemic left behind, this is a highlight of my commitment to addressing global health crises with empathy and expertise. My journey from a first-generation college graduate to a leader in both the academic and healthcare realms is a reflection of my dedication to making a significant impact in healthcare and beyond.

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Mymissionistoensurethat healthcareisequitable, comprehensiveandrootedin communitywell-beingand thisisaripetimefor innovation.

I'm really excited about what's ahead of us. My mission is to ensure that healthcare is equitable, comprehensive and rooted in community well-being and this is a ripe time for innovation. There are so many opportunities to keep making healthcare better for everyone, and I'm here for it all.

ByDr.MollyKachale-Netter

"I'minterestedinwomen'shealth becauseI'mawoman.I'dbea darnfoolnottobeonmyown side."

—MayaAngelou

Our health as women is a complex and multifaceted issue Our bodies are different from men in many ways, and we experience various unique health issues. Unfortunately, our concerns about our health are at times overlooked, dismissed, trivialized, or ignored. Our symptoms are at times attributed to psychological factors rather than physical ones. Furthermore, inequalities, in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic have led to disruptions in routine care and mental health services, along with potential long-term effects that we have yet to uncover.

Now more than ever, it is critical that we make it a priority to be informed about our bodies, health risks, and available resources We must learn to be our own advocates, to speak up about our health concerns, and to seek medical help when needed. We must demand access to comprehensive healthcare services that emphasize our unique health needs in areas such as routine preventative care, sexual health, menopause, cancer, and reproduction to name a few.

Our sexual health is a fundamental aspect of our overall well-being. It is essential to access comprehensive sex education, safe and effective contraceptive methods, and confidential testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. If untreated, sexually transmitted diseases can have profound consequences for both men and women, but they can be particularly harmful to women because untreated sexually transmitted infections can lead to infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, and cervical cancer. Pregnant women can also pass sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis to their babies, leading to health problems for the child, such as blindness or neurological issues As women, we need to practice safe sex and get regular testing to protect our health and that of our partners. Although most sexually transmitted diseases are treatable, HIV/AIDS has no cure. We can mitigate power imbalances in intimate relationships by seeking out options that allow us to self-protect without negotiating with a partner, such as Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), the HIV prevention medication.

Menopause, a biological stage that marks the end of a woman's reproductive years, can be a challenging phase, as it involves a range of physical, emotional, and hormonal changes. It brings about physical, emotional, and psychological changes that can impact a woman's daily life. In addition, women may face life disruptions, such as career changes, relationship issues, and caring for elderly parents. These changes can be overwhelming, making it important to prioritize self-care during this phase Women must seek support from loved ones, practice self-care, and stay active to manage the challenges of menopause and life disruptions effectively. However, with the right approach, we can successfully navigate menopause by following an integrated approach that includes proper nutrition, exercise, and appropriate medical modalities to address hormone imbalances

Our health is the foundation upon which we build our lives. It gives us the strength and vitality to pursue our passions and achieve our goals. By prioritizing our well-being through prevention and self-care, we can create a sustainable framework that supports our personal growth and allows us to

self-actualize. As women, we have the power to inspire and lead by example. By safeguarding our health, we honor our bodies, minds, and spirits and set the foundation for a culture of health and wellbeing that will benefit future generations. Let us commit to prioritizing prevention and self-care in our daily lives and create a domino effect that positively impacts those around us. Regular checkups, screenings, and lifestyle choices can reduce the likelihood of developing chronic conditions later in life and help us live gracefully and vibrantly throughout life. Investing in our long-term health is crucial, and it begins with initiative-taking choices and addressing risk factors. Let us lead the way and set an example for others by prioritizing prevention and self-care and creating a culture of health and well-being that inspires and empowers us to live our best lives.

The legacy of humanity has its roots in Africa, beginning with a mother whose

mitochondrial DNA is at the center of modern scientific discoveries such as hereditary, biomedical research, forensics, and cellular energy. Mitochondria are tiny structures in every living cell that produce life's sustaining force. Unlike nuclear DNA, inherited from both parents, the mitochondrial DNA is passed only through maternal ancestry. Therefore, as women, paying attention to our health is crucial for self-sustenance and keeping the viability of mitochondrial DNA in our offspring a life force. Neglecting our optimal wellness infringes on humanity's health at its core: the DNA level. When we take care of ourselves, we invest in the well-being of future generations by ensuring that mitochondrial DNA continues to be passed on healthily and sustainably.

May we continue to empower, advocate, and thrive together because when we are healthy, the world flourishes.

By Corey Oliver, CEO, Community Venture Investment Corporation: A Chicago Grown Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing Provider

The Bring Chicago Home binding referendum on the March 19, 2024, ballot in Chicago aims to address issues of homelessness by raising the transfer tax on properties sold over $1M It claims that the tax can generated $100M per year that will be put towards the goal of housing the homeless, addressing issues of housing instability, and providing funding for other services that some of the most vulnerable citizens in the city face. Proponents of the tax claim they can tax the rich while protecting the vast majority of Chicagoans.

But is this true? Can they actually create a tax that will benefit 94% of Chicagoans while having no adverse impact on the remaining population. The short answer is no. The longer answer is a bit more complex

For the last 19 years, my family has been dedicated to providing affordable housing across Chicago’s south and west sides. We have learned that there are two primary ways to to approach affordable housing. The first way is what we call “big A” affordable housing. This is often what you see when large developments pop up in low-income

neighborhoods, often layered with different types of public money There are federal income restrictions placed on the properties that will keep them affordable for the years to come These properties can also cost $600k or more per unit to develop. This is the type of development proposed to be protected from any impact of the transfer tax.

The other way that affordable housing is provided is through private ownership. These properties are often owned by smaller community developers that carry the responsibility of the debt and operations of the buildings they own. They are called Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing (NOAH) developers. Most of the affordable housing in the city is provided by this group. The developers often don’t have deed restrictions that force them to keep rent affordable, nor do they have resources for bailouts if their investments fail. They are connected to their properties and care about the communities they serve. This is the group that will be directly impacted by the proposed transfer tax. This is the impact that I want to speak about.

First, as a multifamily property operator, I can tell you that it is extremely difficult to operate operator, I can tell you that it is extremely difficult to operate buildings and keep them affordable. We constantly face increases in the cost of materials, utilities, and labor. In this post-COVID world, we are seeing increases across the board of almost every expense related to operating properties The transfer tax will present untenable exit scenarios for distressed owners.

If struggling owners cannot sell their properties and they cannot keep and sustain management of their properties, then those

properties are destined to end up vacated and boarded up. This will lead to a decrease in the availability of affordable units, which, in turn, will in turn force rents to increase due to high demand and short housing stock. Furthermore, rents will have to increase to support the additional costs, even if that owner isn’t selling today Why? Because when an owner is ready to sell, they need to be able to provide 12 months of financial statements to support the operation of a building. This means if they want to sell next year, they need to start planning for the sale in the present, which includes making cost adjustments to account for additional taxes.

HOW I ACTIVATED SPIRITUAL SELF-CARE QUIETING THE BODY, AMPLIFYING THE SOUL

By Markeyla Henton

I use four practices to maintain my mental health and spiritual care: contemplative prayer, deep breathing, mindfulness and self-hypnosis. Contemplative prayer employs silence and focuses the mind in anticipation that God will speak. Deep breathing engages the lungs to manage stress, control emotions and slow the heart rate. Mindfulness helps you acknowledge and accept the present. And selfhypnosis is the work of focusing your attention to manage emotional responses. Through these four practices, I have increased intimacy in my spirituality, released my fears and discomforts, and controlled my spirituality, released my fears and discomforts, and controlled my response to pain and emotional distress.

I started this inner work in 2013, through contemplative prayer. My pastor challenged me to increase my belief that God wanted to speak to me. Quieting my thoughts and emotions deepened my ability to trust in God, because the emphasis wasn’t on me anymore. I learned to allow peace and God’s direction to expand in my everyday life.

My contemplative prayers were enhanced in 2018, when I discovered mindfulness and deep breathing. In addition to resting in prayer, I mastered the art of slowing my heart rate

It took practice to remov that mindfulness was a w Cultural and religious made me wonder if min weird. I was set free limitations by understa was in control of my own

I was introduced to while preparing to Adamant against an needed pain manage Hypnobirthing revealed in managing my attenti can control pain. I know I was able to labor and g no interventions. I did s with confidence in my hypnosis taught me to t The experience was liberating and empow spiritual care is about soul’s ability to be conn and your destiny; self-h me this power.

Everyone should learn mastering their mind. M noise of your thoughts, your heart rate and st emotions is truly trans mind is the birthplace f in our lives. If you ca body, the purpose-cry becomes crystal clea amplified soul will connected to your next

Photo Credit: UnSplash

FINANCIAL LITERACY 101

By Nicholas Arthur

Financial literacy can be a daunting topic, but understanding it is crucial to live life by design, not by default. Let’s think of it as building a house. First, you have your foundation. Try to remember a time someone has complemented the foundation of your home, but we both know that nothing good comes from a house without a solid foundation. A solid foundation serves as safety net for your financial plan. Life insurance, disability insurance, and emergency savings all play an important role your financial safety net. Knowing how much life insurance is needed, what types best fit your picture and what will taxes look like

in the future are key considerations. Protecting yourselves in event of an accident that prevents return to work is the difference between an early and a delayed retirement. Keeping the emergency fund handy acts as a buffer between immediate cash and credit See these as key first steps toward financial security.

After the foundation is completed next are the walls, windows, and doors of the house. This is where you apply your savings skills to start paying off debt beginning with the highest interest first and moving your way down. Credit can be your friend, or something that keeps you awake at night With credit paid down, you can start growing your dollars into the stock market in a well-diversified portfolio.

When the roof and the interior are completed your get to enjoy your home. Retirement is distributing

Photo Credit: UnSplash

your cash back as income in the most tax-efficient manner. You should able to enjoy you golden years without having to check your phone, look at your portfolio and worry if you will have enough that year. Dollars in all taxable accounts can become an extreme tax burden in the future if tax rates increase due our own personal income or federal law. Growing capital in tax-free vehicles is the best way to get ahead.

Financial literacy is not just about accumulating wealth, it is about creating a life that is aligned with our values and priorities. By learning how to manage our money effectively, we can pursue our passions, spend time with loved ones, and create meaningful experiences that bring joy and fulfillment to our lives. In this way, financial literacy can be a key component of a happy and fulfilling life.

Photo Credit: UnSplash