OMAHA STAR NEWSPAPER, Vol 84., Issue 15, July 22, 2022

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Omaha Star

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Nebraska’s Only Black Owned Newspaper Vol. 84 - No. 15 Omaha, Nebraska

Friday, July 22, 2022

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Nuptials for Sanders and Townsend

Our families, The Sanders and Townsends joined Symone and Shawn in their nuptials on Friday, July 15, 2022. The historic Larz Anderson House, Washington, D.C. was the site for the festivities. Symone was escorted by her brothers Daniel Jose and Daniel Edgar II. A circle of close family and friends filled the hall lined with florals by third generation Lee’s Florist. After the vows, written by the couple, were exchanged all then proceeded to the ballroom for a private dinner and toasts.

The bride and groom changed their Gucci custom designed attire to receive more guests at “A Toast to Townsend” where they announced that they were married in an earlier ceremony. There was a photo booth area complete for photos with the couple. The grounds were filled with love and well wishers from near and far. The next day was a brunch at the Ivy City Smokehouse. Where guest dined on a menu of smoked meats, fresh fruits and libations. Brunch music was provided by The Backyard Band and a fantastic DJ. The afternoon included a live painting of the couple by their favorite artist Demont “Peekaso” Pinder. The couple will reside in the Washington, D.C. area.

Publisher’s Pen

By Terri D. Sanders

COVID has a new cousin in the family and it seems that we will be wearing masks again for protection from Credit: Eric Robinson, Atlanta this strain of the virus.

Why is family history important? I had a chance to have a conversation with my brother, W. Juan McAlister, who now resides in Las Vegas. We were both in Washington, D.C. to attend the wedding of Symone. My brother is sixteen years my senior and there is not another sibling between us. We were like two only children. Each raised in the same household but in different eras. Juan grew up with multiple generations of our family tree…he knew not only our grandmother, but also our great grandmother and great grandfather. He shared stories of them as well as stories about their children which were siblings of our grandmother. Some of them I knew and others I did not. Both of my parents are deceased as is my husband. We both remarked how proud everyone would

be of the accomplishments of my children.

My family tree began in Lexington, Tennessee at Parker’s Crossing. I remember in my early years going to visit aunts and uncles that did not have indoor plumbing and using an outhouse in the country (Tennessee). When you are five years old traveling in a station wagon on a road trip this seemed like fun times.

He shared some information that I did not realize and was maybe in the back of my mind…my great grandmother was born a slave. His point was that while she was born a slave her great-great granddaughter, Symone Danielle Sanders, worked in the White House and had walked the halls with the President and Vice President of the United States. What a piece of family history and a piece of the story we should never forget. He told me that our great grandmother always said to him you had better get something in that head (education).

We can proudly say that our family tree has branched out and we have gotten something in our heads and our hands are busy for good. Mary and Chris (our great grandparents); Opal and James (our parents); and Daniel(my husband) are our heavenly ancestors and we know that they are peacock proud where they are of what is going on in this family in 2022.

Lost time is never found again. ~Thelonious Monk, Jazz Pianist WE HAD THE DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS ABOUT THE VACCINE. IT WORKS. Facts at: douglascountyhealth.com/covid-19

Couple with artist and painting

Built on a Solid Foundation

By LaQuinte Campbell Since 1927, the Urban League of Nebraska has been empowering the community and transforming lives through programs and services such as college tours, financial literacy workshops, the Whitney M. Young Girls STEAM Academy, and the Urban League of Nebraska Young Professionals (ULNYP). For over 90 years, the Urban League of Nebraska has remained aligned to the national mission, “to help African Americans and others in underserved communities achieve their highest true social parity, economic self-reliance, power and civil rights”. There are many shining examples of the reach and impact of this organization, and it brings great joy to the community to share in and celebrate the success of those whose lives have been changed through their connection, especially that of Ms. Rianna Gunter.

Ms. Gunter first became engaged with the Urban League of Nebraska as a student at Omaha North High School in 2014. As a program participant she was able to receive additional support in academics, became involved in multiple community service projects, and had the opportunity to build the leadership skills

Rianna Gunter and Davielle Phillips that would guide her to success in life and her chosen career. In 2018, during her senior year of high school, she earned a scholarship through the Urban League of Nebraska. She also earned the African American Leadership Award in the Youth category, an award that recognizes the accomplishments and achievements of African American youth in the Omaha community that have made significant contributions to the city.

From there, she enrolled in college at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln majoring in Architecture. Ms. Gunter remained connected to the Omaha community through her involvement in Solid Foundation continued on page 2

Some people dream of great accomplishments, while others stay awake and do them. ~C. Neman

LOCAL NEWS July 22, 2022 THE OMAHA STAR, INC. ‘Startup Omaha Week’ Happening July 25-29 THE VOICE OF THE BLACK COMMUNITY

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THE OMAHA STAR

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Terri D. Sanders - publisher@omahastarinc.com Business Hours: Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Member of the National Newspaper Publishers Association Mildred D. Brown: Founder, July 9, 1938 Dr. Marguerita L. Washington: Publisher, 1989 - 2016 Phyllis Hicks: Publisher/Managing Editor, 2016 - 2019 Terri D. Sanders, Publisher Beryl Barnes: Administrator Barbara Reeves: Retail Distributor THE OMAHA STAR believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonism when it accords every man, regardless of race, color or creed, his human and legal rights. Hating no man, fearing no man in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as one is held back.

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Pick up your copy of the Omaha Star at these convenient locations: Baker’s Supermarket

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The Omaha community is excited to bring back for the first time in five years, “Startup Omaha Week” – a weeklong celebration of events focused on building a stronger and more collaborative startup ecosystem within the Greater Omaha area.

From July 25-29, 2022, entrepreneurs of all types are welcome to participate in this year’s startup week.

Attendees will meet other fellow founders, shake hands with investors, and learn more about the resources available to them.

This year’s events will range in topics, format, and settings to ensure a variety of ways to engage and experience all the startup ecosystem has to offer. With over 12 different events to attend, community members can pick and choose programming that makes the most sense for their needs, business or interests.

“Throughout my time in the startup world in Omaha, I’ve never seen momentum like this, so I knew we had to capitalize. Bringing together young professionals, startup founders and teams to showcase what the startup community is up to and has to offer will provide a huge boost to the entrepreneurial and startup ecosystems in Omaha,” said Laurel Oetken, Director of Entrepreneurship and Innovation for the Greater Omaha Chamber and a lead organizer for the week.

Events will take place at a few key areas in Omaha including Venues at the Granary in the new development area in Ralston, NE, Millwork Commons and Modus Coworking in east Omaha, at the Pottawattamie Arts, Culture and Entertainment (PACE) building in Council Bluffs, IA and more locally owned and operated businesses and restaurants.

All events during Startup Omaha Week with the exception of one are free for participants to attend thanks to the financial support of sponsors and support of our partners including: Greater Omaha Chamber, Bailey Lauerman, Appsky, Workshop, Pinata, First National Bank of Omaha, Dundee Venture Capital, Mug.News,

Startup Omaha Week is a volunteer and community-led and organized event. All events are organized by those hoping to make a difference within the startup community and entrepreneurial ecosystem in the greater Omaha community including startup founders, startup employees, support organizations, and many more. The last version of a startup week in the Omaha community took place in 2017.

In historical years, startup week events and activities have interested over 500+ people attending events throughout the community during a week-long period.

Solid Foundation continued from page 1

CITY OF OMAHA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING and PUBLIC COMMENT 2023 ACTION PLAN On Tuesday, August 9, 2022 the Planning Department will conduct a Public Hearing. The purpose of this hearing is to obtain the views of citizens, public agencies, and other interested parties on the Program Year 2023 Action Plan. This meeting will also provide an update on the Housing Affordability Action Plan and HOME-ARP Implementation Plan development. The meeting will consist of a presentation about each topic followed by time to ask questions and provide comments.

The meeting will be held at the Barbara Weitz Center for Community Engagement located at 6400 University Drive, Room 230 on the UNO campus. Parking is free in Lot E. There will also be a virtual option for attendance via Zoom. Please register at https://bit.ly/3uLlWC Relevant documents are available on the 2023 Action Plan Website at https://arcg.is/0qKS0y Following the meeting, video will be available on the City’s Facebook page and website for review.

The 2023 Action Plan provides a concise summary of the actions, activities, and the specific federal and non-federal resources that will be used each year to address the priority needs and specific goals identified by the 2019-2023 Consolidated Plan. The Action Plan primarily describes the uses for Community Development Block Grant, HOME Investment Partnership, and Emergency Solution Grant funds in the 2023 Program Year.

The meeting will provide CART services as well as interpretation in ASL, Spanish, Nepali, Karen, and Somali. Individuals requiring alternative accommodations, please contact Marcus Chaffee at the City of Omaha Planning Department, 1819 Farnam Street, Suite 1111, Omaha, Nebraska, 68183, 402-444-5150 ext. 2012, prior to Friday, August 5, 2022.

The Omaha Planning Department will receive comments about the information presented at the meeting from August 9, 2022 until September 9, 2022. The full proposed document will be put out for public comments again in the fall. Comments should be sent to hcdcomments@cityofomaha.org or by mail: City of Omaha Planning Department Omaha/Douglas Civic Center 1819 Farnam Street, Room 1111 Omaha, Nebraska 68183

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Burst, Millwork Commons, Venues at the Granary, I See It Ventures, Quantum Workplace, Enterprise Legal Studio, Nelnet, Nebraska Angels, Invest Nebraska, NMotion, Startup Grind Omaha, The Nebraska Tech Collaborative, Maverick Venture Fund and Event Vesta.

A few key events include the following: • A Startup Showcase Event hosted at the Granary at 5500 Granary Plaza Suite 101 Ralston, NE 68127 featuring 15+ of Omaha’s fastest-growing and scaling startups all under one roof!

• Startup Omaha Week’s Kickoff event hosted at the Granary at 5500 Granary Plaza Suite 101 Ralston, NE 68127, which will kick off the start to Startup Omaha Week with food trucks, yard games, a DJ and more. Plus, the first 100 to pre-register will receive a free drink ticket for the event.

• A Startup Ecosystem Town Hall to gain feedback and spark discussion around the Omaha startup and entrepreneurial ecosystem hosted at WP Engines’ Headquarters located at Millwork Commons at 1229 Millwork Ave Omaha, NE 68102.

Community members interested in attending Startup Omaha Week should visit startupomahaweek.com to learn more about the lineup of events and scheduled programming. Registration is free and easy and supports a local startup, Event Vesta and the platform they’ve created to make attending events easier than ever.

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various levels of community service, and in 2021 she joined the Urban League of Nebraska Young Professionals (ULNYP). ULNYP is a volunteer auxiliary of the Urban League of Nebraska.

It was there where she was introduced to fellow architect, Davielle Phillips.

Mr. Phillips attended the University of NebraskaLincoln as well and had been deeply involved in the work of the Urban League.

At the time, he was also working as an Architectural Designer at one of the most prestigious architecture firms in the city, Holland Basham Architects. The two connected and poured over their passion for design, and Ms. Gunter was elated to share her portfolio with him. As networking would have it, Ms. Gunter’s work was then shared with the team at Holland Basham Architects, and in her senior year of college she landed an internship at the firm over the winter and spring breaks.

This past May, Ms. Rianna Gunter graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with her Bachelor of Science degree in Design-Architecture and landed a full-time position with Holland Basham Architects working alongside fellow ULNYP member, Davielle Phillips, both as Architectural Designers; both built on a solid foundation. It is with great excitement that the Omaha Star joins in celebration with Ms. Rianna Gunter, Mr. Davielle Phillips, and the Urban League of Nebraska all doing the work to empower the community and transform lives.

Omaha Star Publishing Dates 2022 Month AUGUST

Info due

Pub Date

Theme

Focus

7/29/22 8/5/22 Native Omahan’s Welcome Home 8/12/22 8/19/22 SEPTEMBER 8/26/22 9/2/22 Education Back to School 9/9/22 9/16/22 OCTOBER 9/23/22 9/30/22 Harvest Time Canning and Freezing 10/7/22 10/14/22 10/21/22 10/28/22 NOVEMBER 11/4/22 11/11/22 Gratitude Being Thankful 11/18/22 11/25/22 DECEMBER 12/2/22 12/9/22 Self Care Caring For You 12/16/22 12/23/22 12/30/22 1/6/23 www.theomahastar.com 402-346-4041 PO Box 3393 Omaha, NE 68103 publisher@omahastarinc.com

July 22, 2022

LOCAL NEWS THE OMAHA STAR Seizing Opportunities – They are All Around Us From The Desk of Juanita Johnson

The thing about opportunities is… they are everywhere. They perpetually present themselves to us, whether we recognize them or not. Opportunities come in a variety of forms.

They may come directly to and individual, or they may be identified at the neighborhood, community, city and local government levels. Once these opportunities appear, seizing upon them is essential. Follow these two pieces of advice: “BE READY” and “TAKE ACTION.” In the upcoming days and weeks, Omaha will offer several opportunities that you should be ready to take advantage of. It was recently announced that Google will soon enter the Omaha market, which is projected to bring a variety of new job opportunities. These jobs should include low, medium, and upper-level positions. In addition, Legislative Bill 1024 will provide $335 million to recovery efforts in Nebraska’s underserved communities, particularly areas in North and South Omaha. This bill will allocate dollars for projects that would support affordable housing, infrastructure improvements, crime prevention projects and other recovery initiatives.

Step One: “BE READY” While some of the more detailed information about new job opportunities is not readily available at this time, now is a good time to start watching for announcements, as they will start to slowly creep out in newspaper ads and other job announcements formats. It is always a good idea to tune up that resume and be ready to quickly format it to meet the announced job criterion.

Identify that dream position and start finalizing some of those training and education goals that will improve your qualifications for the position. Be sure that you have made the necessary domestic adjustments you will need to transition into the work force. Be sure you have reliable transportation to and from the job in the most efficient and economical way possible.

Being prepared is the best way to access that opportunity before it passes you by.

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3. Nebraska Workforce Development – 402.829.2800 | neworks.nebraska.gov/vosnet/Default.aspx North and South Omaha let’s BE READY, TAKE ACTION and work collectively to maximize all existing opportunities and those soon to come our way, for the betterment of our community.

Step Two: “TAKE ACTION” There are multiple reasons why this step is vital in seizing opportunity. You may have completed the first step; however, nothing will happen if you are not aggressive in pursuing that opportunity. Begin by talking with friends and relatives about possible positions at their jobs. Omaha has several job assistance avenues available to you: 1. Nebraska Public Employees – 402.346.4011 | local251. org/ 2. Heartland Workforce Solutions – 402.444.4700 | hwsne.org/

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Page Four THE OMAHA STAR

PRAISE, WORSHIP, DEVOTION, OBITUARIES & INSPIRATION Kids Talk About God:

Thank You To God be the glory for all He does for us!

The voices of a million angels, cannot express our gratitude for the love and kindness each of you showed to us as we mourn our Arlen’s death.

To each of you, our love and respect.

From here to Eternity, the family of Arlen J. Bates

Clarence “Bus” Reeves Born on March 3, 1950 in Dorchester, SC. Clarence passed away on July 7, 2022. He is survived by 5 children, 7 grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends.

Homegoing Service will be Saturday July 23, 2022 at 1l am at Good Shepherd Funeral Home, 3809 N. 90th St. Omaha, Reeves NE 68134.

For those who cannot attend but wish to livestream the service, go to www.gsfuneral.com.

Follow the prompts to watch the service on-line.

Celebrates Omaha’s Diversity

Tri-Faith Initiative Event to Signal Our Shared Commitment to Inclusion Omaha, NE – Tri-Faith Initiative believes in a world where everyone belongs. In this spirit of unity, TriFaith announced today that it is hosting a new event, inviting all communities to come together and share in our common humanity. The inaugural United We Walk (UWW) will be held on Sunday, September 11 from 3:00-6:00 pm at the Tri-Faith Commons, 13136 Faith Plaza, Omaha is a welcoming and inclusive community - a place where all people belong. United We Walk is an opportunity to demonstrate that to local, state, national, and international audiences. UWW will be celebratory and joyful, bringing together members representing Omaha’s varied communities: racial, cultural, religious, age, sex/ gender/orientation, and persons with disabilities. The 21st anniversary of 9-11 will also be commemorated, adding special meaning to UWW’s spirit of unity and peace.

United We Walk also gives people the opportunity to gather and explore the Tri-Faith Commons. Hundreds of walkers across many backgrounds will tour the Tri-Faith Center and faith partner buildings; enjoy delicious cuisine from local food trucks; and participate in family-friendly programming and entertainment.

“United We Walk is a wonderful opportunity to come together and celebrate the rich colors and cultures of our community during a fun, family-oriented afternoon,” said Wendy Goldberg, Tri-Faith Initiative Executive Director.

“We are better together. Together we can create an environment supportive and brave enough to build a stronger, more cohesive community.”

United We Walk Grand Marshals for 2022 are: ● Rabbi Aryeh Azriel (Rabbi Emeritus, Temple Israel) ● Roger Garcia (Douglas County Board of Commissioners, District 1) ● Marisa Hattab (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer, Douglas County) ● Farhan & Fatima Khan (American Muslim Institute) ● Preston Love (4Urban Institute for Urban Development) ● John & Deb McCollister (Countryside Community Church) Grand Marshals represent Omaha’s diverse community and will welcome walkers and lead them on a 1.14-mile journey around the Tri-Faith Commons, circling the Jewish, Christian, and Muslim houses of worship located on the campus.

“As members of Countryside Community Church, the Christian partner of the Tri-Faith Initiative, Deb and I are excited to serve as Grand Marshals for United We Walk,” said Nebraska State Senator John McCollister. “We encourage all communities of faith to come together on September 11 and walk together in celebration and support of all the diverse communities in Omaha.”

Following the walk, Temple Israel, Countryside Community Church, the American Muslim Institute, and The Tri-Faith Center will host open houses with opportunities to learn about Tri-Faith’s mission and each faith. A pop-up experience from the Kiewit Luminarium and an outdoor stage will present family-friendly entertainment and music, and attendees are invited to stroll the boardwalk on Abraham’s Bridge that connects buildings on the Tri-Faith Commons and contribute to a community-based art activity. Local food trucks will also be on hand to add to the festive atmosphere.

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July22, 2022

How Do You Sense God’s Presence?

By Carey Kinsolving and Friends

“I feel God’s presence when I walk through the woods and take time to look around at all His beautiful creations like the trees and chirping birds,” says Lauren, 10.

As I write, a seagull sits perched like a sentry atop the building next door. Other gulls glide and dive as children throw crackers. If God can provide for these professional beggars, he can provide for you and me. Quit worrying, and start living.

Let’s follow Jesus’ example by learning a lesson in provision from God’s presence in nature: “Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” (Matthew 6:26).

As the pace of life accelerates and more people find themselves surrounded by pavement and concrete, it’s difficult to sense God’s presence in creation. Without a sense of God’s presence, it’s difficult to worship. If we’re not careful, the pace and pressure of modern life will suck the worship and wonder right out of us.

“I know God is always there for me,” says Ashley, 10. “You should know that God is always there for you, too! God has made lots of humans, creatures, plants and animals. When you see the sun rising or the sun setting, you always know God is there.”

Modern science would have us believe that the Earth keeps spinning on its axis by itself. But the Bible says God created the Earth and the heavens. Without him, nothing would exist (John 1:3; Colossians 1:16).

We have a tendency to think of God as too big to be interested in the details of our lives. Yet, the Bible tells us that God knows the number of hairs on our heads. For

some of us, that task would seem a bit easier as the years pass.

“God created the heavens and the earth,” says Dorothy, 10. “I can sense God’s presence everywhere. When I see people loving and caring for me at school or in my family, then I feel that people follow the Lord’s words. When I feel protected and comfortable in my church, I feel that God is with us.”

Nature provides abundant opportunities to sense God’s presence, but they pale in comparison with one godly person in whom God’s Spirit is active. Christians who let God’s Spirit control them carry the fragrance of his grace. Even people who aren’t looking for God can tell something is different.

As the saying goes, “You can run, but you can’t hide.”

Jonah learned this lesson the hard way as he took the first submarine ride in the belly of a big fish. When we believe that God is everywhere, we’ll see the wisdom of living open lives before him (Hebrews 4:13).

The Apostle John wrote, “God is light and in Him is no darkness at all” (I John 1:5). Walk in God’s light today, enjoy fellowship with like-minded believers and grow in confidence that God is working through you to weave your life into a plan more glorious than anything you can imagine.

Think about this: The beauty of God’s creation reflects his power and glory, but the beauty of his Spirit alive in his people radiates his power and glory.

Memorize this truth: “Where can I go from your Spirit?

Or where can I flee from Your presence?” (Psalm 139:7).

Ask this question: Do you sense God’s presence in the beauty of his creation and in people who are walking in his Spirit?

Stephanie “Suggie” Partridge Carter

Carter Stephanie “Suggie” Partridge Carter was born October 11, 1952 in Omaha, Nebraska to June Walker Partridge and Clitron Partridge, Jr. and departed this earthly realm on May 9, 2022.

Her parents, brother Steven Partridge, eldest son Kevin Gene Partridge, and daughter Makeda Sukari Carter preceded her passing through this life. Stephanie married Howard Carter in Omaha in 1984. Their three

surviving children reside in Brooklyn, New York: daughter Noni Ayana DeJenaba Partridge Carter and sons JaJa DeCosta Carter and Kia Joshua Carter. Stephanie was a loving mother, sister, aunt, cousin, and grandmother who is survived by her siblings Laura Partridge, Rickey Partridge, Terry Partridge, Clitron Partridge, III, and Cheryl Pryor, granddaughter Bryn, many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

A graduate of Omaha North High School, Stephanie studied spirituality at Creighton University. Stephanie was a lifelong lover and writer of literature, poetry, short stories, and journalism who was devoted to uplifting Black people throughout the diaspora.

She founded, edited, and published a newspaper for the Black community in Colorado Springs, CO and, in Omaha, she served as the Managing Editor of the Omaha Star, a Black owned newspaper that has been serving the community for over 80

years.

Stephanie loved the arts. Ms. Partridge Carter was one of the first administrators for the Omaha Housing Authority’s LaFern Williams Center’s Center Stage Theater where she produced numerous performances featuring Black actors, directors, and designers.

Throughout her life, Stephanie generously served her community with her spiritual gifts, shared her love of gardening and growing food, and brought laughter to many. She will be greatly missed by all those whose lives she touched. Even in passing, she continues to contribute to improving the health and wellbeing of Black people by donating her body to support research in illnesses primarily affecting African Americans.

For information on this program, contact the Anatomical Board of the State of Nebraska Manager of Deeded Bodies Program.

Private services will be held to celebrate Stephanie’s life.

Carrie Wells Ponds, CNA, educator and co-founder of The Drum, passes away at 81

The Ponchatoula, Louisiana community honored the life of The Drum co-founder Carrie Wells Ponds on July 16, 2022, at the First True Love World Outreach Ministries in Ponchatoula.

Mrs. Ponds died July 9, 2022, in her home surrounded by her husband of 60 years, Eddie Ponds, and daughters Michelle Ponds and Sharon.

Mrs. Ponds was born February 10, 1941, in Ponchatoula to the late Louis Wells and Charlotte Wells Jefferson.

She was educated in the Tangipahoa Parish School System and graduated from Greenville Park High in 1960. Always a dedicated mother and hard worker, she was a certified nursing assistant at Hammond Nursing Home and an early childhood educator at Little Oaks

Day Care until she retired in the early 2000s.

In 1985, she joined Eddie as co-founder of The Drum, the longest-published Black community newspaper in Louisiana’s Florida Parishes. Mrs. Ponds was also a founding member of the Civic Organization for People Elation (COPE) the oldest and only incorporated civic organization that worked to ensure Tasker Park became a reality for the Ponchatoula community.

She’s preceded in death by her father Louis Wells; mother Charlotte Wells Jefferson; brothers Louis Wells Jr., Johnny Wells, Percy Wells, and Charles Wells; and sister Deborah Wells Richardson. Carrie leaves to cherish her memories husband Eddie Ponds, daughters Michelle (Robin) Nesbitt and Sharon Ponds; grandchildren Robin “Tony” Nesbitt Jr. and Christine Nesbitt; great-grandchildren Micah Nesbitt and Robin Nesbitt III; sisters Bernice Jackson, Debbie Wells, and Priscilla Phillips; brothers Larry Wells and Sammy Mearridy; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends; and the New Zion Baptist Church Family in Ponchatoula.

The eagle who believed he was a chicken

By Rev. Billy Holland Once there was a young eaglet that accidentally fell from the safety of his nest high on the mountain. Miraculously, he fell in a patch of soft grass and survived.

He stumbled out into the open and a farmer saw him and brought him to the farm and placed him inside a chicken coop with all the other chickens. Since the eagle had not yet discovered his true identity, he started watching the other birds and naturally followed their habits and doing what they did. So many people have been wrongly influenced by trying to be like others and for some it has ruined their lives. He was growing stronger and more beautiful every day, but he had not yet discovered the revelation of who he was and what he was called to be.

One day a man from a zoo came to the farm as he heard about an eagle being raised as a chicken. The farmer explained the bird was no longer an eagle; he was now a chicken because that is all he has ever known. However, the zookeeper knew the bird had the heart and soul of a lofty eagle, and was never meant to live on the ground, was to be unrestrained and soar in the clouds. He lifted the eagle onto a fence and told him to fly. The eagle glanced

down at the comfortable chicken coop, jumped off the fence, and continued doing what chickens do. The man returned the next day realizing the eagle was born for something much greater – he just had to know it! This time he carried the eagle up to the rooftop of the farmhouse and again told him to stretch his wings and fly. The large bird looked at the man, then again down into the chicken coop and gracefully flew back down to be with his friends.

The man was now more committed than ever and said he would return the next day and prove the eagle was truly the most stately, powerful, dignified and majestic raptor in all the world. The farmer shook his head and said, “he is what he believes.” The next morning the man took the eagle to the mountain and climbed as high as he could. With an eight-foot wing span and razor sharp talons, the eagle Holland continued on page 5

July 22, 2022

LOCAL NEWS THE OMAHA STAR Black Votes Matter Black History Tour 2022

The 2022 Black Votes Matter Face to Face with Black History Tour has been distinctive as we added some new venues including one that focuses on the history of African Americans as it relates to the building of financial wealth

by African Americans throughout the South. We also visited some of the lesser known, but significant, sites that focus on pivotal players, such as Fred Gray, and his role during the Civil Rights Movement as a key lawyer who made many of the Civil Rights victories possible.

Holland continued from page 4

perched on his arm and the man pointed high into the sky. He said, “Eagle, you belong to the sky and not to the earth. Stretch your wings and fly.” This time the eagle stared upward into the bright sun, straightened his body and stretched his wings. He puffed out his chest and you could see the dignity and strength rise within him. His wings moved slowly at first, then with more power and confidence. Suddenly, with a mighty screech, he launched into the open air and began to fly toward the sun. The eagle finally realized who he was and never returned again to an average and ordinary life of mediocrity.

The eagle by nature flies high and independent, and does not follow a flock. They have clear vision, are very strong and choose where they want to go. As skilled hunters, they decide what and when they eat which is why they are classified as birds of prey. On the other hand, the domesticated chicken is a symbol of that which is limited and dependent on others. As a ground dweller that pecks and scratches, they are weak and vulnerable to predators. They are quite content to just eat and sleep and be taken care of. This is not to say that chickens lack the ability to understand and reason, but the analogy points to an attitude of being complacent. Attributes such as intelligence, being emotionally sensitive, talented, and a charismatic personality is not what keeps a person trapped in the bondage of a survival mentality, it’s not knowing who they are and refusing to do what it takes to become all they have been called to be. The barriers of low selfesteem and a lack of confidence must be conquered as each individual decides the level of success they want to reach. I use the word decide because the mind must be trained and only the person who desires to change can change the course of their destiny. Thank God for those who recognize our potential and encourage us to fly because they love us.

Read more about the Christian Life and Dr. Holland’s book, “A Lifestyle of Worship – Living In The Awareness of God’s Presence” at billyhollandministries.com

Duchesne Academy seeks motivated and positive leaders for the following positions: • Chief Financial Officer • Food Program Manager • Director of Diversity Equity and Inclusion • Varsity Volleyball Coach Qualified candidates may send their resume and a cover letter to hr@duchesneacademy.org

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Recently, his contributions have been recognized and he is the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Additionally, we are so pleased by the attentiveness and engagement of our student participants. They have been so excited by these additions to our schedule and the opportunity to learn about these important sites and figures of history.

Friday included a visit to Tuskegee University, and where we took our official 2022 Tour Picture, on the steps

Page Five

of the Tuskegee iconic statue of Booker T. Washington, on the campus.

The Tour will culminate with a dinner and program to be hosted at the Friendship Baptist Church in Atlanta.

Our Sunday return concludes the Tour, but begin a new chapter in the lives of these wonderful youth, as they have grown in their knowledge of African American culture and history. Our youth will move forward to make history based on the knowledge gained with this experience.

Does Regular Exercise Keep You Healthy?

By Richard L. Brown, Ph.D., FACHE REACH* Racial and ethical approaches to community health (REACH) is a periodic column featuring articles that focus on reducing health disparities in the African American community. It will include topics submitted

by Creighton University Health Sciences Multicultural and Community Affairs (HS-MACA) department.

You may have a good pair of Nikes or a pricey piece of exercise equipment which may be seem as the clear ticket to improve your physical health. This may be true but it doesn’t have to be an expensive venture. Although there should be nothing too expensive, if it will help you to stay healthy and alive. Achieving good physical fitness is simpler than you might think. The key is movement, which, sounds like a no-brainer. Logically, more movement has to be good for you. But figuring out what physical activity counts as beneficial can get a little confusing. I have professed and taught for over 20 years, during and since my days of teaching at Florida A&M University that the human being is like a mechanical machine. The more a machine operates, the better it performs. The more you move, the better good health is maintained.

For Example: If you buy a brand new $50,000 automobile and park it without driving it for 3 to 5 years, it probably will not operate properly and loose it’s monetary value

rapidly. The battery may die. The engine may not start, the gas will be old and have gone bad, the metal parts may have rusted, the windshield wipers may have deteriorated, the tires may be flat. That new car smell will be gone.

So, it is true for people as well. If you stop moving, your health will decline. Even if you keep eating to stay alive, you will become fat and over- weight and perhaps develop diabetes. If you stop moving, your muscles will get weak, you will not be able to walk after a month. The heart will not pump the proper amount of blood and oxygen to your brain and other cells. Blood pressure will increase. Your lungs will deteriorate and breathing will become difficult.

Cholesterol will become unhealthy. A specific example of this phenomena shows up with patients who have been in a coma for several weeks. To gain full recovery, they must undergo physical and occupational therapy and sometimes speech therapy to fully restore normal functions.

Another example of how movement keeps you healthy is the rigorous practice schedule of professional athletes.

They maintain a regular exercise program, so they can perform at the highest level of human capability, on game day. I now play golf at least 2 times a week whether I feel like it or not. The key is “consistency, which is easier to achieve if you actually like the activity you are doing,” says Melissa Bopp, an associate professor of kinesiology at Pennsylvania State University. If you make being active a regular habit, reaching goals such as building endurance and muscle, improving flexibility, or losing weight become much more attainable. A better quality of life is all about incremental steps and doing what you love.

Does regular exercise keep you healthy? The answer is an overwhelming yes.

“Stay Healthy Wealthy and Happy”

COMMENTARY July 22, 2022 24th Street Youth Perspective Please Stand Up Against

Page Six THE OMAHA STAR

Voter Suppression – Refuse to Sign the Petition!

If you live in Omaha, you have probably been asked to sign a petition to place a proposed bill on the ballot that would require voters to present valid forms of identification at the polls. This bill, if passed, would be nothing more than a legal form of voter suppression and a way to further oppress people of color in our community! In order for our democracy to function as it is designed and intended, we need to encourage voter registration and participation, not voter suppression. We need to remove unnecessary obstacles that prevent citizens from voting and stand up for one of the cornerstones of our political system – the right to vote.

The Brennan Center for Justice at New York University School of Law has been one of many reputable sources of information on this topic. Their published report, “The Truth About Voter Fraud”, cites the stunning reality that “it is more likely that an individual will be struck by lightning than that [they] will impersonate another voter at the polls.” Furthermore, the report cautions that “the voter fraud phantom drives policy that disenfranchises actual legitimate voters, without a corresponding actual benefit.” No one wants voter fraud to disrupt our elections. But fear-based legislation that suppresses the legal right to vote, without addressing any actual problem, is not a solution.

The sick irony is that the people gathering signatures for the petition are often Black and Latinx folks, and other people of color, who would be disproportionately harmed by such a bill. Moreover, signature gatherers often canvas community events that are specifically geared toward promoting racial equity and inclusion, giving the false impression that the proposed voter suppression bill is in line with the spirit of anti-racist work!! It is not. Systemic racism is quite cunning.

Personally, I have been asked to sign the petition outside of Hutch Fest at Millwork Commons, at the wonderful Juneteenth Parade along the historic 24th St corridor in North Omaha, at the Omaha Freedom Festival at the Malcolm X Memorial Foundation, at grocery stores across the city, and most recently in the parking lot as I arrived at church at Sacred Heart in North Omaha.

The people soliciting signatures are good people. However, they are not acting out of their own volition. I have had multiple conversations with signature gatherers who have admitted to being paid $20 per signature to solicit support for the bill. $20 PER SIGNATURE!! Furthermore, a few of the signature gatherers themselves have even admitted that they are not personally registered to vote. These are good human beings, in need of stable sources of income, who are willing to do whatever is necessary to financially support themselves and their families. I wish these individuals nothing but the best, but I cannot stay silent any longer.

If you have already signed the petition, please spread the word to prevent other family and friends from following suit. And if the unfortunate day comes when this bill does make it onto the ballot, please join me in its opposition. The health of our democracy depends on the right to vote!

In Peace!

Matt Boland

By Bousaina Ibrahim Emma Bowen Omaha Star Intern 24th St.’s history is undeniable. The lane has always been sacred to the North Omaha area, providing a cultural, business, and community hub.

Today, North Omaha’s youth hope to honor their ancestors and cultivate new energy for people growing up in the area.

The Fabric Lab is playing a leading part in this recreation. Located at 2514 N 24th St., the Fabric Lab serves the community as a space with multiple agendas: it is an urban design lab, community hub, and an innovative outlet for Black curators. For Clarice Dombeck, the Lab’s Urban Development Assistant, the importance lies in their ability to center and support the North Omaha community.

“The intention behind Fabric Lab is to support Black spatial practitioners– Black people who come in and curate the spaces they’re in,” Dombeck said.

“Whether they are an architect, urban planner, artist, or entrepreneur, we’re here to support and provide any assistance we can.”

Through her position, Dombeck said that the changes they are helping create in North Omaha are reparations or restitution for the community.

Dombeck said history shows the systemic abuse against the Black community in Omaha, and she recognized the destruction of homes, businesses, and other buildings in North Omaha in order to create Highway 75 as a prime example. However, Dombeck says the Fabric Lab is trying to build them back up, in ways that reflect the youthful Black culture right now.

The Fabric project is a part of this initiative.

From 2514 to 2522 North 24th St., five commercial spaces and three apartments are under renovation to foster growth in Black businesses and creative entrepreneurship in North Omaha. Dombeck said she hopes to see elements of the historical 24th St. return to the space, including art, culture, music, and nature. In order to honor the history, Dombeck said the Fabric Lab makes sure to be an intergenerational space.

“We work a lot with Preston Love Jr. and other elders who are active in the community and have seen 24th St. go through a lot of changes. Now it’s back in this place where it’s beginning to blossom,” said Dombeck.

For the Fabric Lab, including the youth is just as important. Dombeck said many of their events are aimed to include younger demographics, and the Fabric Lab has an open-door policy to welcome

any community member with ideas. Dombeck said it is imperative to support the dreams of the North Omaha youth because they are the ones who will be inheriting the space. The Fabric Lab is open every day except for Monday and Sunday, and their Instagram page fabric_lab_omaha includes information on upcoming events.

Just a few blocks down from the Fabric Lab is ItalVitalLiving, a healthy juice and smoothie shop owned by Imani Murray. As a young Black entrepreneur, Murray says her presence on 24th St. is a way of honoring those before her, including her father Neville Murray.

“My dad was the first art director of Love’s Jazz & Art Center, also located on 24th Street. I fell in love with the building, and him being an entrepreneur and doing his own thing really inspired me,” said Murray. “Fast forward to now, I’m 24 and I got this building. It’s a full circle moment to be in North Omaha, and specifically 24th St. because of my dad.”

Murray started her business in 2019, and it organically sprouted from her vegan Youtube videos.

For Murray, providing healthy and affordable food options to the Black community in Omaha is what her business stands for.

“ItalVitalLiving stands for health. I started that change within myself by moving to a plant-based diet and whole foods. Now I want to see our community experience it too,” said Murray. “ All our products are straight fruit and vegetables, but we make sure it tastes good. We want to have healthy options for our community because we deserve it.”

Her business is also an effort to curate connections for the North Omaha community, especially the youth. ItalVitalLiving has hosted several kid-friendly events throughout the year, including an Easter egg hunt and Halloween event. Murray said she wants people to feel safe enough to bring their kids and enjoy family time. She hopes to continue to have events that bring people together and feel connected as a district.

“There are so many people who come to Ital and say ‘We needed this’. The need was there. We shouldn’t have to go all the way to Whole Foods to have healthy organic food. It’s something that I want for myself, for my family, and the Black community here”, said Murray.

ItalVitalLving is located at 2323 North 24th St. and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Their website is www.italvitalliving.com, where delivery and orders are available.

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402-346-4041

What is the City of Omaha doing to protect you from lead in soil?

Soil Testing

Soil Removal

Replacement of Soil & Grass

Paint & Dust Assessment

2 1

4 3

The City of Omaha tests soil in yards within the OLS to see if they have unsafe levels of lead.

The City of Omaha removes the contaminated soil and disposes of it safely according to EPA standards.

The City of Omaha replaces the yard with clean soil and sod.

If eligible, homeowners may also qualify for an interior dust and exterior paint assessment.

ALL TESTING AND CLEAN-UP ACTIVITIES ARE ZERO COST TO HOMEOWNERS! Where are we now, and what can you do?

If you know a residential yard that has not been tested for lead, please encourage residents to call the City of Omaha Lead Information Office at 402.731.3045 so their yard can be tested.

If your own yard has unsafe levels of lead, the City of Omaha will also test the exterior paint of your home to see if you qualify for paint stabilization too.

To see if a property has had their soil tested for lead, visit OMAHALEAD.ORG

More resources for lead in Omaha 402.731.3045 The City of Omaha Lead Information Office For yard testing and clean-up information.

402.444.7825 Douglas County Health Department For questions about lead poisoning, and childhood lead screening, elevated blood lead case management, and home inspections.

GotLead.org For general information on lead in Omaha.

THE CULTURE

July 22, 2022

By Asia Nared-Brooks

THE OMAHA STAR

Page Seven

Raise the Curtains on Black Women

“We don't get to be brand new.” This quote along with many others, was the reason for turning a research project into a capstone assignment, and now into a stage production. I Am a Black Woman is the story of Black women and our history with assigned labels.

Written by 23-year-old Allana Pommier who was in search of a way to share the African American woman experience in hopes of enlightening the audience of the truths that are ready to be shared. Graduating with a degree in Sociology/Criminal Justice, with two minors in Theatre and Women and Gender Studies, has trained the playwright to be able to go into the community to create positive spaces to share and tell those stories.

Pommier stated: “I wanted to gather the stories from black women’s mouths instead of letting the world tell us what we are, tell our stories, and use our words however they see fit. [The goal is to] redirect the narrative back to black women as the spokesperson for black women.”

Originally a research assignment for her Research Designs sociology class has turned into a journey of setting black women free from biased understandings.

These biases are not new and have haunted over blackwomanhood like an epidemic.

“These images or stereotypes that we are forced to live under that dictate our existence rather than us being who we say we are and having them take us at our word, we are

given an expectation set by society,” said Pommier.

It should be noted that the playwright has highlighted in their play the assimilation that black women must abide by to become accepted and possibly elevate in day to day life.

“History is everlasting. …These stereotypes and images that we have conformed to and/or grown accustomed to are generational curses that our mothers, grandmothers and great grandmothers were taught and continued teaching. We all were taught how to exist in the world for ‘them’ to accept you.”

In the light of sharing, this play was created to start a conversation with each other. To create a space for vulnerability and to be able to walk into the freedom of full-self. “We live in a sensitive world … and as black women, there is not a lot of room for us to be sensitive.

We grow up having to be strong for ourselves and those around us. I would like for the audience to walk away and be open to understanding with a listening mind.”

I Am a Black Women production will be running during

the Omaha Fringe Festival at Big Canvas Theatre 3624 Farnam St, Omaha NE 68131 for the first two weekends of August 2022. The following dates and times are: Saturday August 6th at 5:00pm, Sunday August 7th at 5:30pm, Saturday August 13th at 11:00am, and Sunday August 14th at 7:00pm. Tickets can be purchased online at omahafringe.com.

o-pa.org/miller

Opening performance begins at 6:30 PM

Saturday, Aug. 20 7:30 PM

Page Eight

THE OMAHA STAR

THE CULTURE

July 22, 2022

Health Department Reports Third Monkeypox Case

Metro holds student art contest to design a bus wrap Kids could watch their art roll through town!

In honor of Metro’s 50th anniversary, we’re inviting Omaha-area students to send their artwork in for a chance to have it featured on an Omaha bus.

The contest is open to middle and high school students who attend an Omaha-Council Bluffs metro area middle or high school or were home-schooled in the 2021-2022 school year.

Designs can be hand-drawn or created digitally. Two grandprize winners will be selected: one from the middle school group and one from the high school group. Those designs will go on a bus you’ll see rolling through Omaha for up to a year!

“We are thrilled to have this contest open to all middle and high school students in our community,” said Cencic.

“This is a great way for younger generations to get involved with public transit and understand the importance it has in everyone’s lives.”

RULES: • All entries must be original artwork produced by the Wheel Appeal Contest participant.

• Participation is open to all middle school and high school students ages 11 to 18 years at the time of entry who attended Omaha/Council Bluffs area schools or home school during the 2021/2022 academic year.

• All entries will be judged in two categories: middle school students (ages 11-13), and high school students (ages 14-18).

• Participants must provide their own art materials, and/or hardware and software.

• Participants must submit original artwork and completed Wheel Appeal Contest Entry Form: https://www.ometro.com/ wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Wheel-Appeal_Entry-Form.pdf • High school students graduating in May 2022, under the age 18, may still participate.

• If you completed middle school in May 2022, please enter as a middle school student • All entries must be received by 4:00 p.m. on August 1, 2022. Entries may be emailed to: outreach@ometro.com or mailed/dropped off at Metro, Attn: Communications, 2222 Cuming Street, Omaha, NE 68102.

• If emailing, use subject line: Wheel Appeal Contest. No

late entries will be accepted.

• Entries will be judged by a committee made up of Metro staff and community members in August. The winners will be notified by August 31, 2022.

• Students are limited to one entry per person TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS FOR YOUR DESIGN: For hand-drawn original artwork: See Template Graphic: • Use markers or ink pens • Use white paper with a smooth finish so the design can be transferred to the wrap accurately For original digital artwork: Download and use this template: https://www.ometro.com/ wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Wheel-Appeal_bus-template. pdf Files can be made on either a PC or Apple platform (iPads are fine) • If mailing or dropping off: Save your files to thumb drive and include the following: o Using Adobe Illustrator, save as an AI or EPS file. o Any included images or photos need to be embedded. o All fonts in your design need to be converted to “outlines”. o In Adobe Illustrator, select all your fonts by clicking on text first then go to: Type > Create Outlines. o Include a printed copy too. o If using Procreate, save your file as a .PNG or .JPEG • Participant’s submission of the Wheel Appeal Contest Entry Form constitutes full and unconditional agreement to, and acceptance of the Wheel Appeal Contest Rules and Technical Requirements. Being chosen as the winners of the original artwork to be wrapped on a Metro bus Winning any prize is contingent upon participant fully complying with all Wheel Appeal Contest Rules and Technical Requirements.

• By submitting original artwork and the Wheel Appeal Contest Entry Form, each participant fully represents and warrants to Metro and its successors and assigns that: (i) the artwork is original and created by the participant; and (ii) the artwork does not violate any copyright, other intellectual property right, other property right, or contract right.

The Douglas County Health Department (DCHD) reported the county’s third suspected case of the monkeypox virus. Contact tracing has just been initiated and it is too early to say if this is a known contact to a confirmed case.

To protect the individual’s privacy, DCHD will not be releasing any additional details on this individual. The patient is receiving outpatient care and helping with the contact investigation.

Any potential exposures will be notified by the Health Department.

DCHD believes the risk to the public remains low, but anyone with a characteristic rash resembling monkeypox should contact their healthcare provider. The rash typically looks like pimples or blisters.

If possible, contact your provider before going to the facility and inform them of your symptoms and rash. Monkeypox is spread through direct contact with an infected person’s rash, scabs, or body fluids, or through respiratory secretions during prolonged intimate contact including kissing or cuddling.

Monkeypox symptoms are resemble those of smallpox but are milder. Monkeypox sometimes starts with a fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and exhaustion. The incubation period for monkeypox generally is seven to 14 days but can range from five days to three weeks.

The outbreak currently is disproportionately affecting men who have sex with men and individuals meeting partners through online websites, digital applications, or at social events. Anyone who has traveled to an area with ongoing monkeypox transmission and observes a rash typical of the disease should seek medical evaluation.

There is no specific monkeypox treatment, but some antivirals have been used effectively. Some people who have had close personal contact with an infected individual may be a candidate for prophylaxis with a vaccine.

More than 12,000 cases of monkeypox have been reported worldwide. More than 1,814 cases have been reported in the United States and its territories.

For more information, please visit the Centers for Disease Control website (www.cdc.gov) or call the Douglas County Health Department Information Line at (402) 444-3400.

Community Healthcare You Can Trust At Charles Drew Health Center, our strength is in our community.

As your trusted community healthcare source, we provide COVID-19 testing, treatment, vaccines and boosters, as well as high-quality and affordable medical, dental and behavior healthcare, pharmacy and enabling services.

402.451.3553 | Call us today to schedule your appointment! | charlesdrew.com HCAN722-12 Omaha Star 1/2 Page Color: Full Color

PRAISE & WORSHIP DIRECTORY

July 22, 2022

ALLEN CHAPEL A.M.E.

KING SOLOMON MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

Rev. Jacqueline Ford, Pastor 2842 Monroe Street Omaha, NE 68107 Off: (402) 734-3399 Email: admin@allenchapelomaha.org Sunday School...........................9:00 a.m.

Sunday Praise & Worship.....10:00 a.m.

Thursday Bible Study..............8:00 p.m. via teleconference, dial-in number 563-999-2090 and access code 576989

Rev. Jacqueline Ford

“Where Life is for Everyone” SUNDAYS 10:00 AM

THE OMAHA STAR

ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CATHOLIC CHURCH 2423 Grant St. Omaha, NE 68111 Ph: 402-348-0631 • Fax 402-342-4451 Sunday Mass: 9:00 a.m.

Reconciliation: Sunday after Mass or by appointment

3202 Evans Street Omaha, NE 68111 Ph: 402-455-0358 Fax: 402-455-0801

Pastor Albert Jonathan Wagstaff

kingsolomonbaptist@yahoo.com kingsolomonomaha.org

Sunday School......8:45 a.m.

Sunday Morning......10:00 a.m.

Bible Study, Tuesdays......6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Prayer Service, Wednesdays......12 noon Journey to Tomorrow, Out Next Step Judges 18:4-6

Page Nine

&

Rev. Michael Voithofer

ABLAZE HOUSE OF PRAYER

11501 Fairview Road, Springfield, NE 68059 Ph: 402-451-6622 • Fax 402-457-6901 Contact Ablaze: email: ablazeworshipministry@gmail.com Pastor: Rev. Michael Voithofer

awcchurch.org 402-341-1866 5417 N. 103rd St. Omaha, NE

SACRED HEART CATHOLIC CHURCH Fr. Dave Korth

Drs. Martin & Lynnell Williams Founders & Lead Pastors

2207 Wirt Street Omaha, NE 68110 Phone: 402-451-5755

MORNING STAR BAPTIST CHURCH BETHEL MISSIONARAY BAPTIST CHURCH Rev. Dr. Lorenzo S.L. Fincher Senior Pastor 5318 South 30th Street Omaha, NE 68107 Phone: (402) 731-1840 “Large enough to serve you, Small enough to know you”

Rev. Dr. Lorenzo S.L. Fincher Senior Pastor

Sunday School .............................................. 9:30 a.m.

Worship Services .............................................. 10:45 a.m.

Wednesday Prayer Services ..........................................6:30 p.m.

Wednesday Bible Study.....................7:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Biblically Based, Family Oriented, Dynamic Fellowship

Church of the Living God “A great place to call home.”

Pastor Overseer Dr. Claude White 2029 Binney Street Omaha, Nebraska 68110 402-451-4742

Worship Service .............10:00 a.m.

Sunday School .................8:45 a.m.

Excluding First Sunday Tuesday Evening Service.........7:00 p.m.

Come and hang out with us on our corner

Weekly Services

Mass Schedule: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday - 8:00 am in Rectory (2218 Binney) Thursday - School Mass 8:10 am in Church Saturday - 5:00 pm Sunday - 8:15 am and 10:30 am

Live Streaming Sunday Service-10:00am on Morning Star Baptist Church-Omaha Facebook Page

SALEM BAPTIST CHURCH

Serving God and One Another in the Spirit of Excellence Rev. Dr. Selwyn Q. Bachus Senior Pastor

MOUNT CALVARY COMMUNITY CHURCH

“Jesus is the Light of the World” Bishop Kevin Chambers, Senior Pastor www.m3comaha.org 5112 Ames Avenue Omaha, NE 68104 (402) 457-4216 Church Phone (402) 453-4084 Pastor’s Office

www.facebook.com/cotlg33.org

Overseer Dr. Claude White

Fr. Dave Korth

2019 Burdette Street Omaha, NE 68110 Ph: 402-342-0018

3131 Lake Street Omaha, NE 68111 402-455-1000 www.salembc.org

Bishop Kevin Chambers

Services: Sunday School .................................................... 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship Experience ......... 11:00 a.m.

Word On Wednesday (WOW) ........................ 7:00 p.m.

Rev. Dr. Selwyn Q. Bachus

Weekly Services Sunday Morning Worship Service .....................8:30 a.m. & 11:30 a.m.

Children’s Church (2nd & 4th Sunday) ................8:30 a.m. & 11:30 a.m.

Life Development (Sunday School) .........................................10:15 a.m.

Wednesday Word and Worship (WWW) ................................ 6:30 p.m.

Sunday School ———————- 9:30 a.m.

Morning Worship —————— 10:45 a.m.

TABERNACLE OF FAITH CHURCH Pastor Barbara Mitchell 2404 Fort Street, Omaha, NE 68111 402-455-1800 Church 402-455-3390 Fax

CLAIR MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

“Come Get Your Hilltop Experience” Rev. Portia A. Cavitt, Pastor 5544 Ames Avenue, Omaha, NE 68104 Telephone: 402-451-8322 Website: www.cmumc.net Email: clairumc@cumc.omhcoxmail.com Rev. Portia A. Cavitt, Pastor

Sunday School………………………8:45 a.m.

Sunday Worship Experience………...10:00 a.m.

Wednesday Bible Study….…….…….6:00 p.m.

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Pastor Barbara Mitchell Rev. T. Michael Williams

Dr. Ralph B. Lassiter

Elder Howard Dixon

MT. MORIAH MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

“Transformed People Everywhere” 2602 N. 24th St. - PO Box 11593 www.mtmoriahomaha.net Off: (402) 451-8800 Sunday Worship ..........................................10:45 a.m.

Live Stream: Facebook.com/mtmoriahomaha Please call for Prayer and Transformation Group Bible Study Schedule

Rev. Morita Truman, Lead Pastor Services on Sundays at 8:30 am & 10:50 am 7020 Cass Street, Omaha, NE 68132 402.556.6262 www.fumcomaha.org First United Methodist Church is a welcoming and inclusive community, inspired to grow with and in God.

Sundays:

In Person Service 11:30 am and LIVE on Facebook

Wednesday Night LIVE on Facebook 6:30 pm Friday Night LIVE on Facebook 7:00 pm

ZION BAPTIST CHURCH Rev. Kenneth A. Allen, Pastor 2215 Grant Street Omaha, NE 68110 Ph: 402-346-1502 Fax: 402-344-2720

MT. NEBO MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH “The Church Where Fellowship is Real”

Rev. Morita Truman

Pastor Terry L. Arvie 5501 N. 50th Street Ph: 402-451-4245 Fx: 402-451-2130 office@mtneboomaha.org www.mtneboomaha.org

Pastor Kenneth A. Allen

Pastor Terry L. Arvie

Sunday Morning Worship ...................................9:00 a.m.

Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting .....................7:00 p.m.

Wednesday Night Church School ......................7:30 p.m.

Youth/Children Ministry Focus (Wed.) ............7:30 p.m.

SUNDAY Sunday Morning Worship……………10:00 A.M. Sunday School……………………….. 9:00 A.M. WEDNESDAY 11:00 A.M. ~ Hour of Power Bible Study Wednesday is Family Night!

6:00 P.M. ~ Prayer & Praise Service 6:30 P.M. ~ Feast & Fellowship (Light Meal) 7:15 P.M. ~ Discipleship Academy (Classes for ages 5 & up)

Charles Galloway - President, Rev John Deang - Pastor, Dr John Beasley - Elder

HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH

Missouri Synod 2721 N. 30th Street 402-453-1583 Sunday School................................10:00 a.m.

Church Service...............................11:00 a.m.

YOU ARE ALWAYS WELCOME

THE WORSHIP CENTER

“Where CHRIST is Preeminent and the Word Prevails!”

North 24th Street Church of God “Presenting the Never-Changing GOD to an ever-changing World!”

Pastor Brian Page 5555 Larimore Avenue Church: 402-346-8427 www.pleasantgreenomaha.org

Dr. Stan Rone - Senior Pastor 2021 N. 24th Street • Omaha, NE 68110 (402) 341-4297

Pastor Brian Page

JOY OF LIFE MINISTRIES COGIC

Wednesday: Prayer Power Hour ......................................12:00 p.m

Pastors Eric and Cynthia Butler

Thursday: Youth For Christ ............................................6:00 p.m Prayer & Bible Study ....................................6:30 p.m

6401 N. 56th Street Omaha, NE 68104 Ph: 402-399-9628 E-Mail: Jolpastor@aol.com Sunday School..........................9:30 a.m.

Sunday Worship......................10:30 a.m.

Sunday Evening Worship.......6:00 p.m.

Wednesday Night ....................7:00 p.m.

Bible Study and Youth Ministries

PLEASANT GREEN BAPTIST CHURCH

Sunday: Sunday School.................................................9:00 a.m.

Morning Worship..........................................10:15 a.m.

Pastor Eric Butler and Co-Pastor Cynthia Butler

Televised Broadcast Sunday @ 10pm on KPAO Cox Communication channel 22 & Century Link channel 89

Dr. Stan Rone Senior Pastor

Sunday Kingdom Academy 9:00 a.m.

Worship Celebration 10:15 a.m.

Tuesday Prayer Hour 7:00 a.m. & 12:00 noon Wednesday Power Hour (Prayer/Bible Study) 6:30 p.m.

Youth and Children 6:30 p.m. www.theworshipcenter24cog.org

NATIONAL NEWS

Page Ten THE OMAHA STAR

Free Job Training and College Education Provided by the WIOA Program

By Tillie Vuksich There’s over $2.8 billion set aside for college grants in the federal budget. This pays for training programs, college degrees and job-seeking assistance. Every state in the U.S. has a part of this budget to spend on their qualifying citizens.

President Barack Obama signed the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) into law on July 22, 2014, to help create block grant funding for youth, adults, and dislocated workers to strengthen the American workforce by proving free training and education to citizens in the pursuit of better jobs.

There’s a shortage of skilled workers today and this program is part of the solution.

Heartland Workforce Solutions and National Able, located at 5752 Ames Avenue, partner with the American Job Center Network to provide WIOA services. These services include free resume writing assistance, job searching, training programs, certifications, college degrees, and internships. The staff and case managers can guide you in finding better employment or help you enroll in college for a degree that will provide better career opportunities. All these services are free.

The WIOA program covers the cost of books and classes with eligible providers for an associate degree or a 10-week dental assisting certificate course or a 180-hour Class A CDL truck driver certificate course, and if you already possess an associate degree there are bachelor degree programs covered by WIOA with local university partners. These are just a few examples of the programs offered. View the complete list of providers and programs covered by visiting https:// neworks.nebraska.gov and create your own free

By Dr. James L. Snyder The last few weeks have been rather hectic, and I’ve struggled to keep up with everything. If it weren’t for The Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage, I probably would not have gotten where I am today.

The Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage can think of a dozen things at the same time. I can only think of one thing at a time. This gets me into trouble because sometimes, what I’m thinking about isn’t what I should be doing at that time.

I think what it’s called is multitasking.

This is something that I cannot do even though I have tried for a long time. I can only keep one task and focus at a time.

Usually, it’s the wrong task I’m thinking of at that particular time.

Women are famous for multitasking.

The Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage

account then select ‘Training Services’ under the ‘Job Seekers’ menu and then click on ‘ETPL Approved Programs’ for a list of eligible program opportunities.

The WIOA program takes time to get into, some have found it was several months to get from enrollment to the first day of classes, but graduates do not regret the time invested to complete their degree and gain knowledge putting them in higher paying jobs in careers they enjoy. To find out if you qualify for the WIOA program visit: https://www. nationalable.org/EnrollNebraska Once you are enrolled, you will be assigned a case worker who guides you through the enrollment process in school and checks in with you quarterly to record your progress, pay class and book fees.

They also help with barriers to higher education such as transportation and childcare.

There is help through the WIOA program for those who are motivated to attend college or a training course to better themselves. It pays to invest in yourself by furthering your education and gaining new skills. The U.S. Bureau Of Labor Statistics complied data comparing employment rates and earnings by level of education for 2020 which shows that having a degree almost doubles a person’s weekly earnings and lowers their rate of unemployment.

Industries with the greatest need of skilled workers are tech, construction, healthcare, and transportation. These are well paying jobs that require some form of training or a degree. Gaining these skills not only betters you and your family, but also serves your community and country.

Contact Heartland Workforce Solutions at (402) 444-4700 Monday-Friday 8am-5pm for more information about National Able and the WIOA program.

Report Assessing Emergency Rental Assistance Program in Omaha Creighton University’s Pierce Greenberg, an assistant professor of sociology in the Department of Cultural and Social Studies, published a report assessing the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) in Omaha. Key findings from the report: • Emergency rental assistance in Omaha effectively prevented more than 7,400 evictions from April 2021 to April 2022.

• The average rent of a person seeking assistance was $1,035 – well above estimated affordability levels for households that were eligible for rental assistance – indicating an eviction wave may still be a threat when ERAP funds are exhausted.

• Maps and statistical analysis of emergency rental assistance disbursement show that South Omaha is underserved by the emergency rental assistance program based on its demographics.

“The Emergency Rental Assistance Program has mostly been effective at delaying the eviction wave that many advocates feared,” Greenberg said. “But these numbers also show just how many households were in need over the last year and how the cost of rent is burdening the most vulnerable residents in our community.”

ERAP funds were included in the federal government’s spending plan in 2021 and received bipartisan support. The program allows eligible households to apply for rental assistance if they meet eligibility standards and demonstrate economic and housing-related hardships due to COVID19. 99.1% of funds were provided directly to landlords.

The property types receiving assistance were 53.92% multi-unit developments (i.e., apartment complexes), 40.25% single family homes, and 5.82% multiple residential standalone properties (i.e., duplexes and triplexes).

The average amount of rental assistance per approved application was $4,311—which covered an average of 135 days (or about four months).

Landlords and tenants could apply for a maximum of 12 months of past rent and three months of current and/or future rent.

The average monthly rent of a person seeking rental assistance was $1,035. According to the city’s data, 56% of ERAP recipients were making less than 30% of the area’s median income and 83% were making less than half of the area’s median income. This underscores how the cost of rent significantly burdens low-income households in our city.

The report was funded by the National Low Income Housing Coalition’s “End Rental Arrears to Stop Evictions” (ERASE) program.

An Apple Fritter on My Mind

is certainly the Queen of multitasking. No matter how much she has in her hand, she always has room for one more task.

Since my heart attack last year, The Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage convinced me to drawback on my Apple Fritters. There was a time in my life when I had an Apple fritter a day and sometimes more than that.

Looking over my list of unfulfilled tasks, I could only think about an Apple Fritter at the time. Nothing would really calm down my nerves but one of those Apple Fritters.

I looked at my list of tasks for the week and put at the bottom of it the letters “A F”. I knew what it meant, and I was hoping the other person in our residence did not know what it meant.

I laid my list on the table, not thinking too much about it, and then my wife

July 22, 2022

picked it up. She looked at it, then looked at me and asked what “A F” meant?

At first, I didn’t know what she was talking about, and then it dawned on me that I had put those letters on my task list.

I did not know how to respond to her, but in a few moments, I said, “That simply means Article Finishing.” Then I smiled one of my gregarious smiles.

She looked at me and wasn’t smiling but giving me one of her “stares.” I suspected I was in trouble.

“Are you sure,” she asked, “that it does not mean Apple Fritter?”

It was such a frustrating week; it was hard for me to bounce back with a credible answer.

“You do know,” she said very seriously, “that you are not to have Apple Fritters because of your health?”

Trying to come up with an answer,

I simply said, “I was just thinking that maybe if I thought a little bit about an Apple Fritter, it would make me feel a little bit better about my week.”

Looking at me, she said, “I think that finishing your tasks during the week, is what will make you feel better.”

Later I was reminded of what the Bible says. “His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord” (Matthew 25:21).

I don’t have to do everything, just a few things that I can handle for the glory of God. Dr. James L. Snyder lives in Ocala, FL with the Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage. Telephone 1-352-216-3025, e-mail jamessnyder51@gmail.com, website www.jamessnyderministries.com.

BUSINESS BITES/CLASSIFIEDS

July 22, 2022

THE OMAHA STAR

Page Eleven

Planning For An Older You

By Michael L. Green Many people I’ve talk to about retirement initially seem to perceive it as simply a date when they will transition from working every day, and start drawing on their retirement resources and not much else.

But it becomes obvious that that they haven’t really given adequate thought to retirement planning.

In thinking about retirement, the first step is to consider what it will look like for you. Will you work at all after leaving your primary employer? Do you have to work to supplement your retirement income? Is there a hobby or vocation you’ll want to pursue; can you make money doing it if that’s a consideration. What follows is a discussion of some the more important considerations as you plan to and become retired and beyond.

Legacy Planning. Make a will. Many people think

Attorney

Attorney

you have to be very wealthy to need a will, or that it’s a complex document that’s costly to get completed. Neither is true. A will is a legally binding document that says what you want done with all of your property, financial assets, personal property, real estate after you’re gone. Another form is a living will. This does the same thing should you become unable handle your affairs. While you don’t have to consult an estate attorney, it’s a good idea to do so. Both documents should have an executor named. A Medical Power of Attorney is a document that gives a person you designate authority to make health care decisions in the event you’re medically disabled.

Tell your family, potential care giver, or other trusted person about your estate plans. Organize your documents and put them in a safe accessible place. Keeping them in and attorney’s office is a good place. They will be able to tell the designated person where everything is. Be sure to tell your family or other responsible person where your personal valuables are. Have a list of your medical providers where they can be easily found.

Auto Service Home Team Auto Sales

Timothy Ashford Attorney at Law 1603 Farnam Street Omaha, NE 68102 (402) 660-5544

Think about and organize your finances well in advance.

Try to become debt free. That’s relative because you will always use some debt. But it should be manageable. Avoid high-cost credit cards or keep them to a minimum. An emergency fund is more important in retirement because you won’t have a salary to rely on. Review all of your “guaranteed income sources, like social security and a pension if you have one. When you’re budgeting, for retirement in the early years, the longer you don’t need to draw on your savings (401(k), IRA, Roth IRA, ect) the better. Plan for taxes; assume they’ll be going up. Seek out a Registered Independent Advisor like EverGreen Capital Management for help.

Take care of you. Stay physically and mentally healthy.

Join a gym. Some health care plans for seniors will pay for a membership, like The Silver Sneakers or they can get you a good discount when you become eligible for Medicare. You should explore various plans. Engage in mentally stimulating activities; cross word puzzles, wordle, read. Join a group of your interest. Stay active.

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Have You Heard About The Business Connection?

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Page Twelve THE OMAHA STAR

YOUTH/EDUCATION NEWS

July 22, 2022

Mandela Fest Celebration

Scholars, their families, and members from the community gathered at Miller Park on Saturday, July 16 to celebrate Mandela Fest for the first time in two years. The festival is a celebration of the birthday of the former South African President, Nelson Mandela, as well as a celebration of the end of the school year for Nelson

Mandela scholars.

The entire day was loaded with activities. The morning started with a bike parade to kick off the day, brunch with the Pancake Man, and a kickball tournament with the Black Police Officers Association. At the main event, there were bounce houses, food trucks, face painting,

and performances from the school choir, the Meerkat Melodies, as well as presentations of some of the summer activities, including skateboarding and ballroom dancing.

Check out the KETV 7 News Watch story here: https://www.ketv.com/article/omaha-mandela-festback/40632326

Have summer plans yet?

Let MCC help.

Your future in healthcare starts here.

Registration is open now for College for Kids and College for Teens classes at Metropolitan Community College.

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COLLEGE FOR KIDS AND TEENS SUMMER CAMPS 2022: USE PROMO CODE WCS2022 AND RECEIVE $5 OFF. mccneb.edu/ce/summerfun | 531-MCC-5437

Learn more at methodistcollege.edu/healthcare (402) 354-7200

Subscribe to the Omaha Star 402-346-4041

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