Vol. 83 - No. 19 Omaha Nebraska by The Omaha Star

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Omaha Star

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Nebraska’s Only Black Owned Newspaper Vol. 83 - No. 19 Omaha, Nebraska

Friday, September 17, 2021

75 cents

Mildred Brown Children’s Book

Addy Partridge

Addy Partridge, daughter of Jenn and Rob Partridge of St. Paul, Minnesota was quite impressed when she received Newspapers and Butter Pecan Ice Cream, as a gift from her grandparents Robert (Bob) and Janet Partridge, Omaha. Addy who is named after her great great Aunt Addie Hinton (Omaha music teacher) never thought a Black woman could publish a newspaper. She was so excited that she took her book to school to read to her whole class. All were impressed by the story of Mildred D. Brown.

Basketball coaching business seeks to give opportunity to all Omaha athletes The pandemic threw the world of college sports into disarray. In addition to restrictions on fan attendance at basketball games, coaches and athletes had to work remotely. That’s when Creighton coach Chevelle Saunsoci decided to pull the trigger on a dream of hers – to start Dvlp Basketball, a hoops training and mentoring business for Omaha athletes who dream of playing in college. “Starting Dvlp during the pandemic was tough, but it felt like the right thing to do,” recounted Saunsoci. “Taking that leap of faith helped me be part of real change.” In a time when so much was uncertain for small businesses, Dvlp Basketball’s mission was Dvlp Basketball never a question. “There are areas of Omaha with fewer resources than other and we typically focus on North Omaha most of all,” observed Saunsoci. “We wanted to create something to bridge the gap in opportunity between athletes throughout the city, an issue I saw during my time coaching.” Although Dvlp Basketball is a relatively young business, it’s benefited from staying up to date on social media trends and digitally spotlighting its strengths. “We started publishing videos on Facebook of our athletes getting some 1-on-1 mentoring and showcasing their skills,” highlighted Saunsoci. “When those clips are shared around the youth basketball community, online word of mouth is a great way to advertise our business.”

Sacred Heart Preschool

Sacred Heart School opens preschool program for three- and four-year-old children

The CUES School System announces the addition of preschool at Sacred Heart School

located at 2205 Binney St, Omaha, Neb. The school system now offers preschool through eighth grade education at all three of its schools – Sacred Heart, All Saints and Holy Name. All Saints and Holy Name have offered preschool programming for years and the decision to add programming at Sacred Heart was made in support of the increased demand in the neighborhood. “We will utilize our program experience to make a positive impact for all families in in our school system and make the transition into kindergarten seamless,” said Jennifer Sturgeon, chief academic officer for the CUES School System. Evidence demonstrates that experiences from birth through age 5 are critical to children’s development. Yet despite the long-term benefits of early childhood education, many children lack access to integrated, inclusive early learning experiences before kindergarten. Successful coordination between preschool and kindergarten helps to lay the groundwork for a child’s positive school experience. If this transition does not go well, children can be turned off to learning and school at an early age. By aligning standards, curricula, instruction and assessments between preschool and kindergarten, children can experience a seamless pathway that sets them up for future success. CUES preschool programming focuses on shaping a child’s attitude toward school in a nurturing environment where young children can thrive both academically and in creative play time, which is proven to increase self-esteem and develop fine motor skills. The preschool program is fully enrolled for this school year due to the needs of families that have other children in a CUES school, but the schools offer an opportunity for enrollment in February of each year. Children attend preschool from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Daily schedules include play, story time, songs, large-group and smallgroup learning, recess, snack and access to our school library, music program, and physical education. “Our curriculum helps children grow and learn what they need to know to become ready for school, including age-appropriate mathematics, literacy, science, social studies and art,” said Sacred Heart principal Mike Jensen. “This is in addition to learning positive values that create character and teach children how to become a good friend to others.” CUES tuition rate for preschool programing is lower on average than Omaha area childcare centers, and grants are available for tuition assistance depending on the family’s financial means.

Publisher’s Pen

By Terri D. Sanders

Have you had your vaccination? You know COVID-19 and its “cousins” are all around! Be Safe…If not for yourself what about those around you? Wear your mask. Change or launder your mask regularly, I’m just sayin’. The Omaha Star Copy Center is open 9-5 Monday-Friday and Saturday 9-2 in our offices at 2216 Dotcom Studios North 24th Street. We offer a variety of copying and printing services to meet your digital needs. You can send your inquiries to printing@omahastarinc.com or give us a call at 402-346-4041. We are providing services in our community at an economical price. The North Omaha Turnback Tax Committee is looking for community members to serve on the grant funding committee. Since 2009, this committee has worked to bring tourism to North Omaha, strengthen community ties through programs and events, and a newly added use of the grant funding for the upcoming year is to assist small business and entrepreneurship growth in North Omaha. Please see the article in this edition of the paper for details and how to contact the committee for more information. The Omaha Star Newspaper would like to welcome Amari R. Leigh, as a fellow from the Google News Initiative who will be doing a couple of guest columns. A graduate of Hamilton College (Clinton New York), majored in World Politics, French, and

Next Issue: October 1, 2021

Frachophone (using French as her first language). We welcome her perspective that she will be sharing with our readers. Is our community suffering from digital redlining? Redlining is the defined as the discriminatory practice of denying services to residents of certain areas based on their race or ethnicity. Using this definition does our community have injustices and inadequacies regarding access to broadband and connectivity? The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation defines digital redlining as “major network providers systematically excluding low-income neighborhoods from broadband by deploying low-speed home internet.” It has been brought to my attention that this “could” be the case. This will require further investigation on our part and we will report back to our audience. This is a topic that makes us go hmmmmmmm… In 2022, The Omaha Star will return to a weekly format. We are encouraging YOU to get or renew your subscription at 2021 rates before December 31, 2021. Yes, you can renew ahead of schedule. The Staff of the Omaha Star, the Mildred D Brown Memorial Study Center, and the Board of Directors would like to thank YOU for supporting our programs with your tax-deductible donations. You can donate by sending us a check (PO Box 3393, Omaha, NE. 68103), donating on line (www.theomahastar.com) or even bequeathing us a donation (putting the Mildred D Brown Memorial Study Center in your estate/will). Your donation will fund our programs and services to the community. What is that? Junior Journalism, the Omaha Star Archiving Project, The Omaha Star Newspaper (which is a program of the MDBMSC), or our Scholarship fund. Any questions, give us a call. Until October 1, 2021…keep on the UP.

Information submission due September 24, 2021

Unity Block Party Celebration

Heartland Family Service is hosting Community Unity Block Party Celebration: September 25th at NOIC Generations Community Center 4318 Fort St. from 12pm to 4pm. We will be highlighting young entrepreneurs in North Omaha. Free rental space for those under 24 years of age. Those 25+ years of age will pay $20 and everyone will need to bring their own table. We will have food vendors, live entertainment, as well as outdoor games! This event will highlight our youth in entrepreneurship, and we want to encourage other youth that may want to go toward entrepreneurship. This event is used as a key to influence, connect, and encourage our youth into other avenues. In order to register for this event, please call 402-553-5300 between the hours of 9:00a.m.-4:00p.m. MondayFriday.

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Page Two

LOCAL & HEALTH NEWS

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MCC to host virtual powwow Sept. 25

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Terri D. Sanders - publisher@omahastarinc.com Business Hours: Monday – Thursday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 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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The United States provides opportunities for free expression of ideas. The Omaha Star has its views, but others may differ. Therefore the Omaha Star ownership reserves the right to publish views and opinions by syndicated and local columnists, professional writers and other writers whose opinions are solely their own. Those views do not necessarily reflect the policies and position of the staff and management of the Omaha Star newspaper. Readers are encouraged to email letters to the editor commenting on current events as well as what they would like to see included in the paper. Those emails should be sent to: publisher@omahastarinc.com and must include the writer’s name, address, email address and telephone number. The ownership has editorial rights and does not guarantee that all submissions will be published. Please be advised that the Omaha Star ownership does not employ staff writers who charge for preparing and submitting articles for the general public. Should you encounter such, please advise Terri D. Sanders at 402346-4041.

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There are many things happening at OPPD and in the energy industry! • Legacy Program: Open to all juniors who want to get a head start on their post high school education and career! Sponsored by Omaha Public Power District. See the attached flyer for more details. This program is FREE and will be held virtually! Space is limited! Contact Jaron Cannon at jcannon@oppd.com for more information. • Careers in Energy: Open to all middle and high school students who want to learn more about the many opportunities in the career industry! Sponsored by the Nebraska Energy Workforce Consortium. Website: Nebraska.getintoenergy.com This FREE virtual event is being held Oct 18th-22nd. Registration opens on September 13th. For more information, contact Michelle Homme at mhomme@oppd.com. • Energy Careers 2021: Open to everyone and sponsored by the Center for Energy Workforce Development. This event is FREE and being held virtually. For more information, please go to cewd.org/resources/energycareers

Metropolitan Community College is the recipient of a generous $55,000 grant award from the Johnny Baxter Carriage House Foundation. The grant will go toward helping Automotive Technology, Auto Collision Technology and Diesel Technology programs at the College. The grant will also help those students in the Automotive Training Center, a brand new two-story academic facility on the South Omaha Campus. “This generous grant will go directly to students, helping them earn a degree in a career field that is in high demand,” said Scott Broady, associate dean-Industrial and

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Automotive Technology. “This grant helps further MCC’s mission by removing barriers to education and giving students valuable opportunities.” About the Johnny Baxter Carriage House Foundation The Johnny Baxter Carriage House Foundation is the charitable division of the Nebraska New Car and Truck Dealers Association. The foundation was formed in 1984 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, capable of receiving tax deductible contributions to provide the funding for charitable and educational activities to enhance the automotive industry in Nebraska.

Nebraska Nonprofit Extends Access to PTSD Services to Support Frontline Healthcare Workers At Ease USA is Committed to Providing Access to Confidential Treatment and Support for Those Impacted by PTSD What began as a mission to support active military, veterans and families afflicted with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has now grown into an effort that includes Nebraska’s frontline healthcare workers who are experiencing symptoms. Through At Ease USA (AEU), an independently funded nonprofit, those impacted by PTSD can receive confidential, researchbased and cost-effective treatment. “People often associate PTSD with the those who served in combat, and there certainly is an elevated risk with men and women currently serving in the military, veterans and their loved ones,” said Gail Williams, Board President of At Ease USA. “However, we know that PTSD doesn’t discriminate. The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a heavy toll on frontline healthcare workers and, as the delta variant surges, they’re again battling exhaustion and struggling mentally.” A recent study shows concerning rates of depression and PTSD among the nation’s healthcare workers. The study, conducted by the Yale School of Public Health, found that nearly one-quarter (22.8%) of all healthcare workers showed signs of probable PTSD, including burnout, nightmares, insomnia and lack of motivation. “It’s also a difficult time for many war veterans. The recent events in Afghanistan are causing some veterans to relive trauma from past deployments, so we’ve seen an uptick of people reaching out for help over the past few weeks,” Williams said. “In our experience we know that oftentimes people are hesitant to seek treatment, because they believe it could impact their careers

Omaha Star Philosophy: At the Star we look at ourselves as the documentarians of African-American news in Omaha. We strive to make our readers and our advertisers proud they support a publication that portrays the AfricanAmerican as a multidimensional person capable of excelling in areas other than sports, entertainment and politics.

or reputation. This stigma is the primary obstacle to accessing treatment - and it’s the reason that our program is completely confidential.” AEU’s statewide network of experienced mental health professionals employ many approaches to address PTSD, including Attention Training. Developed in partnership with Creighton University and Tel Aviv University, Attention Training is a new, noninvasive, web-based software that changes disrupted threat processing associated with PTSD without any need to discuss or relive traumatic events. “This is really cutting-edge treatment,” Williams said. “It’s not like traditional therapy. It takes ten minutes per appointment and has proven to reduce PTSD symptoms in just four to eight sessions.” AEU’s network of providers can be found in locations across Nebraska, including Broken Bow, Gothenburg, Grand Island, Kearney, Lincoln, Loup City, North Platte and the Omaha metro. AEU is also hosting two upcoming events: The Facing PTSD Together Conference will be held Friday, October 15, at Omaha’s Scott Conference Center. Offered for mental health professionals, the keynote speaker will be Dr. Kevin Nadal, professor of psychology at John Jay College of Criminal Justice and the Graduate Center of the City University of New York. The 2021 AEU Annual Luncheon will be held Wednesday, October 20, at Omaha’s CHI Health Center. Open to the public, this year’s keynote speaker is General Lori Robinson, USAF (Ret.). For registration/ticket details or for more information about AEU’s services and preferred providers visit www.AtEaseUSA.org.

Free Ed Poindexter Information Write/email: Nebraska Pardons Board PO Box 95007 Lincoln, NE 68509 ne.pardonsboard@nebraska.gov

Call: Governor Pete Ricketts 402-471-2244 Attorney General Doug Peterson 402-471-2683 Secretary of State Robert Evnen 402-471-2554

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Metropolitan Community College will host the 30th annual Fort Omaha Intertribal Powwow on Saturday, Sept. 25, 1-5 p.m. via Facebook and YouTube. The powwow celebrates Native American cultures with traditional dances, music, artistry and oral history. This year’s theme is “Survivance.” The event is free and open to the public. At 1 p.m. on Sept. 25, attendees are asked to visit the powwow website at mccneb.edu/ powwow to access the links for viewing. This year’s master of ceremonies is Whitney Rencountre II, Hunkpati Dakota from the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, with Ronnie Preston, San Carlos Apache, serving as arena director. Hinglu Hall, Ioway, Otoe, Kiowa, will serve as head man dancer while Julia Wolf, Omaha, will serve as head lady dancer. The event also features a princess contest, with Kari Hinman, Ponca, serving as head judge. Red Leaf Singers, from Two Strike, South Dakota, will be host northern drum while Young Bucks, Omaha, will serve as the host southern drum. The 30th annual Fort Omaha Intertribal Powwow is made possible with the support of BNSF Railway Foundation, the Nebraska Arts Council and Nebraska Cultural Endowment and Whitmore Charitable Trust. For more information, visit mccneb.edu/powwow or email powwow@mccneb.edu.

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SEPTEMBER 9/10/21 9/17/21 OCTOBER 9/23/21 10/1/21 Harvest Time Canning and Freezing 10/8/21 10/15/21 10/22/21 10/29/21 NOVEMBER 11/5/21 11/12/21 Gratitude Being Thankful 11/19/21 11/26/21 DECEMBER 12/3/21 12/10/21 Self Care Caring For You 12/15/21 12/24/21 www.theomahastar.com 402-346-4041 PO Box 3393 Omaha, NE 68103 publisher@omahastarinc.com

LOCAL NEWS

September 17, 2021

Creighton University announces plans for new residence hall

The historic building boom currently underway at Creighton University is about to give future first-year students a brand-new, fully modern residence hall. The $37-million hall will be built on 23rd Street, south of Burt Street and will house 400 students. Completion is expected in time to welcome freshman students in the fall of 2023. A groundbreaking ceremony will be held at 11:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 17 near 23rd and Burt Streets. It will be the first Creighton residence hall built exclusively for first-year students since the 1960s, and the first new residence hall of any kind since 2006. The opening of the new hall will mark a major step forward for Creighton’s residential experience, offering significantly more first-year rooms in the suite-style concept, which permits more independent living and has become the preferred option for students around the nation. Accommodations will consist of two adjoining rooms, two doubleoccupancy bedrooms, a shared bathroom and a central community kitchen. Each floor will have kitchenettes, as well as dedicated spaces for student development

programs. Site preparation began on May 17. The Rev. Daniel Hendrickson, SJ, president of Creighton University, said the new residence hall invests in Creighton’s future by investing in its future students. “The building represents a philosophical shift to how we house our freshman students, with suitestyle accommodations that allow for both privacy and community,” he said. “The residence hall’s programming also will reflect our commitment to diversity and inclusion, with dedicated interfaith spaces and amenities that support student development, wellness and academics.” Tanya Winegard, PhD, vice provost for student life, said the creation of an interfaith prayer space and installation of two prayer rooms reserved for Muslim students will reflect Creighton’s institutional commitment to diversity and inclusion. They will replace the existing Muslim prayer rooms in Kiewit Hall. Spaces for wellness and academic support programs will be integral to the new hall, while socialization will be encouraged by construction of an elevated outdoor courtyard where gatherings and events may be held.

In addition to on-campus living playing a key role in the college experience, Winegard said the new residence hall will provide first-year students with a fitting environment for their development during the beginning of their journeys with Creighton. “At Creighton, we commit to developing the whole person, so the place where students live is an important part of the Creighton experience,” Winegard said. “We are excited to meet the needs of our future students by creating a new home and a bright, modern environment for them while they study with us.” The new residence hall is one of many construction projects taking place at Creighton University. The residence hall will be located a few blocks east of the future site of the recently announced CL Werner Center for Health Sciences Education, which will serve as the new home of the School of Medicine and as an interprofessional hub for all Creighton health sciences schools and colleges. The CL Werner Center and other initiatives in the health sciences in Phoenix will make Creighton the nation’s largest Catholic health professions educator.

THE OMAHA STAR

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PET OF THE WEEK Samson Barack GoochGrayson is the pampered pet of Dr. Cynthia K. Gooch-Grayson and Mr. Meredith O. Grayson. A nine pound Silky Terrier, his favorite pastimes are long car rides, long lap naps, barking at anything that moves and walking his owners in the park. Samson is a fashionable canine and takes pride in dressing in cozy attire in the fall and winter.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Miss Black and Gold Scholarship Pageant Informational

College women are invited to attend an informational to gain insight on how you can earn scholarship awards, vie for the coveted crown representing the Beta Beta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and the District of Nebraska at the regional level and participate in a positive, professional experience. Since the 1970’s, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has hosted a national pageant competition showcasing the high scholastic achievement, intellect, and talent of college women across the nation. Nebraska Alpha’s are confident we have exceptionally talented scholars and want to afford them the opportunity to participate in the local competition. Full-time undergraduate college women between the ages of 17-25 from Omaha and Lincoln area colleges and universities are eligible. The 2022 Miss Black and Gold winner will receive a one-time scholarship award and a paid trip to the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Midwestern Region competition where she will compete for a chance to participate in the national pageant. To register for the informational, please contact us at bbmissblackgold2022@gmail.com

Creighton University dorm being built

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LOCAL NEWS/COMMENTARY September 17, 2021 East Coast-Midwest Connection That Forged Unity Decades Ago, Still Binds Participants Today

Page Four THE OMAHA STAR

Now more than ever, with the racial tension rising in America and the world, a story like this can help to bring hope and understanding to cultural and racial acceptance. Powerful examples of diverse people uniting for a common cause happens in athletics. A Samuel Singleton Jr. little-known story of disparate student-athletes coming together as one played out at the University of Nebraska at Omaha from the late 1950s through the early 1970s. Born and raised on the east coast, basketball player and singer Samuel (Swish) Singleton Jr never expected to find himself in Omaha, Nebraska, but that is exactly where he ended up in the 1960s. The east coast was supposed to be a refuge for equal opportunity at the time. He learned that was not the case when the University of Nebraska at Omaha offered him and several other African American student-athletes an opportunity that resulted in a phenomenon coined by Mr. Singleton as The East Coast Midwest Connection. Interviews were done with some participants from this life-changing experience that blended individuals from two distinct parts of the country with different lifestyles. Dozens of young men from the Eastern Seaboard, like Sam Singleton, made their way halfway across the country to the Omaha University, a small municipal at the time. Unfortunately, meager financial resources, average grades, or their families not prioritizing higher education, provided dim prospects to the recruits coming out of high school in the East. As a result, few were recruited by area schools, overshadowed by higher-profile peers in that talent-rich region. In addition, black student-athletes like Singleton faced extra barriers. Predominantly white schools only accepted a small quota of African Americans, and historically black colleges were not even on the studentathletes radar.

These working-class urban kids, white and black alike, were drawn from New York, New Jersey (Singleton), Maryland, and Midwest states such as Ohio by the lure of scholarships that paid for part of their education and prepared them for careers. Before they arrived, they considered Nebraska the boondocks, but once settled there, they enjoyed its low cost-of-living, relaxed pace, and friendly residents. Many brought accents and attitudes born of their Eastern, streetwise roots, and yet they found acceptance from teammates and classmates, the majority of whom were local kids, although some hailed from the greater Midwest and the South. The east coast student-athletes were variously recruited to play football, basketball (Singleton), or baseball. Some came to wrestle, and others to compete in track and field. A few earned All American Honors, and an even more select few went professional. Most earned a degree and returned to their old stomping grounds. Others stayed and married, making careers and raising families in their adopted hometown. Those who participated in this convergence of cultures agree that the experience marked a milestone in their lives. Legacy is a powerful thing. Singleton is passionate about documenting the historical significance of this once-ina-lifetime experience. He is seeking support to help fund the research and production of content that will chronicle this true-life human story and the lessons which abound within it. The project will recognize and celebrate the unbelievable

Get Vaccinated!! By Preston Love Jr. Short and sweet, Get vaccinated!! The pandemic has disrupted our community for over a year. Milestone occasions such as graduations, weddings, and funerals have been postponed, canceled, or reduced in size. We have missed congregating at church, dinners with friends, and listening to live music. I’ve missed these activities and more just as much as you. Fortunately, science and research have enabled us to return to our “normal” lives and gather safely again. But to do so, you must protect yourself and those around you from COVID-19 and the Delta Variant. And the easiest and most effective way to do so is to get vaccinated. Everyone aged 12 and older has the opportunity to become vaccinated. There is no hurdle too large. If transportation is an issue, Uber and Lyft are offering free rides to vaccine clinics. If physical limitations present a challenge, the Douglas County Health Department can

deliver vaccines to your door. If childcare is an issue, there are sites that will watch your children to enable you to become vaccinated. We have community resources to answer question, provide any help needed. COVID and the Delta Variant does not discriminate – young or old, white, black, or brown, healthy or facing illness, male or female. COVID has spread through our community and impacted everyone. I am calling on YOU to make a difference by becoming vaccinated. As of mid-August, only 36.6% of our community has been vaccinated. We are well below the Douglas County and national vaccination rates. I am aware of our historic hesitancy; I acknowledge and have written about our realities. Not relevant for this go round. We are dying!! Help us get kids back in school safely this fall and reduce the spread of Covid among your family, your neighbors, and yourself. You can Do Right, Right Now. For more information, please visit: https:// dorightrightnow.org/ Contact me at prestonlovejr@ gmail.com and I will connect you with our community resources.

Avoid COVID-19, take the vaccine. We understand that you may be concerned about getting vaccinated. All COVID-19 vaccines currently available in the U.S. have been shown to be highly effective at preventing COVID-19. Getting vaccinated yourself may also protect people around you, particularly people at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19. The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) recommends you get a COVID-19 vaccine as soon as you are eligible. If you think you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, call your health care provider. If you don’t have a provider, call a number below. Do not go to the Health Department or the ER for testing. If you are experiencing severe symptoms such as trouble breathing, chest pain, or blue lips/face, call 911 or go to the ER immediately.

To find a vaccination site, call 402.444.3400 Additional contacts: Charles Drew Health Center 402.451.3553 One World Community Center, Inc. 402.734.4110 bit.ly/DCHD-COVID | vaccinate.ne.gov The COVID-19 Project is a collaborative partnership between Creighton University’s Center for Promoting Health and Health Equity (CPHHE) and the Douglas County Health Department.

accomplishments of these students and their contributions to America, and the world, since graduating from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Their academic, athletic, and corporate achievements, performing arts achievements, social, political, and legal achievements, and more, will share examples of how humanity can work together in unity – no matter where you come from. More than ever, audiences are hungry for positive, lifeaffirming messages that celebrate unity in this divisive time. Omaha, Nebraska, lays claim to a unique historical legacy that highlights young people and all people in today’s highly incensed society to overcome differences to live and work together in unity and harmony. If you’re interested in being interviewed for the upcoming book and documentary, please email eastcoast1962midwest@gmail.com or call 804-246-3276.

North Omaha Turnback Tax Committee now accepting applications for volunteer members Douglas County Commissioner Chris Rodgers, Omaha City Councilwoman Juanita Johnson and State Sen. Terrell McKinney on Monday announced two open positions for the North Omaha Turnback Tax Committee. The Committee has worked annually since 2009 to select grant recipients who bring tourism to North Omaha, strengthen community ties through programs and events and assist with the reduction of street and gang violence. A newly added use of the grant funds for the upcoming year is to assist with small business and entrepreneurship growth in North Omaha. The grant funding is awarded under the revised Nebraska Convention Center Facility Financing Assistance Act, which provides that 10 percent of the funds received by the City of Omaha in “turn-back tax” be distributed to areas with a “high concentration of poverty.” “Councilwoman Johnson, Sen. McKinney and I look forward to identifying two fellow community members who will help us to implement the changes in the statute and expand on the past work of the committee to move North Omaha’s future forward,” Rodgers said. Applicants must: • — Live in the North Omaha designated area • — Attend meetings regularly. • — Read all grant submissions. Each volunteer member selected will be expected to serve a four-year term. Applications are now available online at www.douglascounty-ne.gov. For additional information please call (402) 444-7025 or (402) 444-5547.

Free Ed Poindexter Information Write/email: Nebraska Pardons Board PO Box 95007, Lincoln, NE 68509 ne.pardonsboard@nebraska.gov

Call: Governor Pete Ricketts 402-471-2244 Attorney General Doug Peterson 402-471-2683 Secretary of State Robert Evnen 402-471-2554

SHOW UP AS YOUR WHOLE SELF Creative, Passionate, Smart, Empowered, Inspired, Courageous, Daring, Humble, Authentic WWW.SIGNATUREPERFORMANCE.COM/CAREERS

September 17, 2021

HEALTH/WELLNESS/NATIONAL NEWS THE OMAHA STAR

Page Five

Honoring 50 OVER 50 top- achieving Nebraskans Local Authors Recognized

At The Bloc, we serve communities across the state of Nebraska. Our team of experts is doing something different to honor loved ones in the aging community. On September 25, 2021, we’re hosting a special banquet honoring 50 OVER 50 top- achieving Nebraskans who have served in five categories - nonprofit, innovation, business, community, and healthcare at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Downtown Omaha. More than 1,100 candidates were nominated for the awards ceremony, but only 50 Nebraskans were selected by a judges committee which consisted of business leaders and state officials. We are excited to celebrate each honoree who contributes to make Nebraska a great state. So why this demographic? Why not? The Bloc, a philanthropic nonprofit organization based in Lincoln, felt our aging population was worthy of recognizing considering that in our state people age 50 and older contribute to 39% or $50 billion of Nebraska’s total gross domestic product (GDP). They generate $3.7 billion in state and local taxes, create over 42% of jobs, and generate more

than $33 billion in wages, salaries, and business income. They spend more than 250 hours caring for others and 113 hours volunteering on average per year estimate at $3.6 billion. However, we think our efforts would go even further with the support of your news outlet. We would like to raise awareness of The Bloc’s cause and promote these amazing honorees, including Senator John McCollister, Carmen Tapio, CEO of NorthEnd Teleservices; Ted Carter, president of the University of Nebraska System; Jeff Huber, CEO of Home Instead, among many others: The 50 Over 50 award recipient names are as follows: Doug Durham Eli Rigatuso Sandy Spady Marcy Browning Jeff Huber Tamara Morris Dr. Chelsea Chesen Janice Marie Jansky Welton Juilfs Nicole Edmundson Meg Damme Jim Warren Annabelle Keene Harold Sargus Judith Martin Carmen Tapio Phyllis Ericson Ian Vickers Scott Hazelrigg Dr. Ali Khan Candace Gregory Erica Mascarello Kirk Anderson

F.Y.I.

Tony Boldt Yesenia Peck Honorable Wadie Thomas Karen Gibler Honorable Vernon Daniels Carol Cleaver Paula Steenson Diva Mejias Bc Clark Aileen Warren Jim Reiff Darrin Good Eric Ewing Dr. Carole Patrick Carolina Padilla Chris Hove Mick Mines John Mccollister Rosey Higgs Jona Van Deun James Freeman Paul Strawhecker Walter “Ted” Carter Lazaro Spindola Tanya Cook Renee Franklin Christine Anderson

The 50 Over 50 Up-And-Coming Trailblazers Award Recipients Are As Follows: Rob Wegner Travis Sturgill Alexander Dunn Jeremiah Dane Larsen Brian Craig Dr. Vidhya Selvaraj Marjorie Maas Dr. Lashaune Johnson Jacqueline Miller Washington Garcia Brian Hastings

In order to be included in The Omaha Star, all articles and event calendar announcements must be typed in a Word document, using Times New Roman font, 10 pt, and must be received no later than two weeks in advance of the event. Articles must be e-mailed to: publisher@omahastarinc.com by 3:00 p.m. on Monday. Any submissions that are received the same week as the current publication will not be included in the current week’s edition. The distribution day for The Omaha Star are Fridays on a bi-weekly schedule. The Omaha Star is not responsible for unsolicited pictures or articles submitted for publication.

at Book Festival

A children’s picture book that encourages children to know their history will represent Nebraska at the 2021 National Book Festival. The Nebraska Center for the Book selected “Your Bridge to History” by Portia Love and Preston Love Jr. (‎Preston Publishing, 2019) as the state’s selection for the National Book Festival’s Great Reads from Great Places programing. Each state selects one book about the state, or by an author from the state, that is a good read for children or young adults. The book will be featured in the Great Reads from Great Places – History Edition author panel, with links on the websites of both the National Book Festival and Nebraska Center for the Book. The National Book Festival will run Sept. 17-26, with the theme “Open a Book, Open the World.” This book, written by Portia and Preston Love Jr. and illustrated by Regina Jeanpierre, takes you along with the Black Votes Matter Tour across the American South. The characters tour sites where individuals and organizations focus on Civil Rights, Voting Rights, and Black History in the United States. Beautiful illustrations depict the pictures the tour participants experienced along the way. QR codes are included to take readers to websites that are important to further learning. Nebraska’sGreat Reads from Great Places book is chosen from the previous year’s Nebraska Book Award winners and this book was awarded the 2020 Nebraska Book Award in the Children’s Picture Book category. Entries for the Nebraska Book Awards are accepted every year between March 1st and June 30th - see http://centerforthebook.nebraska.gov/awards/ nebookawards.html. The National Book Festival will feature virtual presentations by award-winning authors, poets, and illustrators. Find out more about the 2021 National Book Festival (including a list of featured authors) at www.loc.gov/events/2021-national-book-festival/ about-this-event/. The Nebraska Center for the Book is housed at the Nebraska Library Commission and brings together the state’s readers, writers, booksellers, librarians, publishers, printers, educators, and scholars to build the community of the book, supporting programs to celebrate and stimulate public interest in books, reading, and the written word. The Nebraska Center for the Book is supported by the Nebraska Library Commission. As the state library agency, the Nebraska Library Commission is an advocate for the library and information needs of all Nebraskans. The mission of the Library Commission is statewide promotion, development, and coordination of library and information services, bringing together people and information.

Page Six

THE OMAHA STAR

LIFE & STYLE/HEALTH & WELLNESS

September 17, 2021

The Second Surge “There is reason to fear, the virus is still here” Racial and ethical approaches to community health (REACH) is a periodic column focused on reducing health disparities in the African American community. It includes topics submitted by Creighton University Health Sciences Multicultural and Community Affairs (HS-MACA) department. By Dr. Richard Brown, Ph.D., FACHE REACH* According to the August 25 Nebraska State weekly Covid-19 update: • hospitalizations were up to 314, an increase of 37 since the Aug. 18th report • deaths rose by 12 in the previous week, the state’s new total was 2,314 • 88,093 COVID-19 tests were done in the previous week, 4,953 were positive • 240,028 positive Nebraska cases were confirmed since the pandemic began • Of all cases, 2,957 are Covid 19 variants of concern • Total Nebraska vaccine doses were 2,006,761 as of Aug. 24th, about 52% of eligible Nebraskans fully vaccinated. Creighton University COVID-19 Project Progress March 15, 2021 marked the beginning of our phase II response to the growing Corona virus infection rate. Overseeing the response, we represent Creighton University’s Center for Promoting Health and Health Equity (CPHHE), a division of Health Sciences-Multicultural and Community Affairs (HS-MACA). CPHHE response leaders believe the current Nebraska numbers would be higher, except for our project’s efforts to prevent COVID-19 spread and to promote intervention strategies. This six (6) month plan was part a year-long strategy for working with community-based organizations and communication media across Douglas County. The aim was to deliver education and information on resources to help fight the Corona virus pandemic. The communication

strategy was designed to strengthen efforts to educate and link communities to: • COVID-19 testing, • healthcare and social services, and • to best share and implement effective responses, encouraging the minority community to get vaccinated. The following describes the tools and communication vehicles through which educational information was disseminated to minority members of the Douglas County community. A variety of sources were used including: • Social media • Newsletters • Radio • Bulletin boards • TV • Public appearances • Newspapers • Townhall meetings • Rhythm and Rhyme Music The communication objective was to ensure that messages about the COVID-19 virus and vaccination are disseminated to the minority population of Douglas County. They have been disproportionately affected by the virus. To these ends, CPHHE staff re-established relationships with organizations serving the Omaha community including: • Omaha Public Housing, (serving 4,287 residents) • 100 Black men of Omaha • Fraternities and sororities • 12 churches • African American Empowerment Network • Charles Drew Community Health Center (FQHC)* • One World Community Health Center (FQHC)* • Urban Indian Health Center • NAACP • Urban League • Hispanic newspaper (Mondo Times) • Neighborhood and other community - based organizations • Elected officials Staff utilized networks of these and other communitybased organizations to provide messaging to the target population. Eight Week Training Program

An 8-week education and training program consisted of community health ambassadors (CHAs) from the 12 churches, public housing, Latina and Maya community. The program was developed to inform 50 CHAs. The group met weekly via zoom conferencing. Many topics on COVID-19 pandemic were covered, including “What is COVID-19 virus,” “COVID-19 Prevention,” Signs and Symptoms,” Myth Busting,” Cultural Competence,” and “Ethical Considerations.” Case studies were developed to inform and educate participants. Each participant received a certificate acknowledging their competence in the area of COVID-19-prevention. Next Chapter in the COVID-19 Story As we come to the end of the second CPHHE, 6-month, COVID-19 project, we are very proud of the partnership team and the tremendous amount of work and significant contributions to educating the population on avoiding and spreading COVID-19, and to get vaccinated. The Project successfully implemented every objective presented to the Douglas County Health Department. Resources included information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, State, and County. Reputable health experts were further resources. Project evaluation is on-going. When the systematic aggregation of activities is completed, we expect the individual and aggregated evidence will support the success of this COVID-19 Community Health Ambassador Education and Training Grant. This past year saw tremendous progress in “attacking” the Covid-19 virus. However, the virus appears to be moving faster than its host. (humans) Three important issues must still be addressed to restore some s normalcy: (1) controlling the deadly, Delta variant of the virus through encouraging all who are eligible, to take the vaccine, (2) protecting children under age 12, for whom no approved vaccine currently exists, and (3) eliminating false vaccine information. We hope more federal, state, county or private sector funds will become available to continue fighting this deadly pandemic until it is defeated.

Antwone Fisher to Speak at NorthStar Foundation’s Event

NorthStar is inviting supporters to attend the 10th Annual Climb Higher Luncheon on October 19, 2021 at the CHI Health Center with keynote speaker Antwone Fisher, Award-Winning Film & Literary Writer. The 10th Annual Climb Higher Luncheon takes place on Tuesday, October 19 at the CHI Health Center in Omaha at 11:30 AM where Antwone Fisher will deliver the keynote address. The Climb Higher Patron Party event to highlight the success of the campaign and celebrate the recent upgrades to the facility will be held at NorthStar’s facility on the Sunday before the luncheon, October 17 at 3:30 PM. The Annual Climb Higher Events are made possible by members of the NorthStar

Guild, a volunteer committee designed to provide support to the NorthStar Foundation through promoting community and fundraising. The committee is led this year by Guild President Sarah McGowan. The 2021 Climb Higher Event Chairs are Jessica Covi, Guild Vice President and Jen Alloway, Guild Vice President & Treasurer. “It’s an honor to be a part of this event and to support the amazing work of NorthStar and the Omaha Outward Bound School program. The Annual Climb Higher Event is a way to help provide opportunities through NorthStar for young men in our community to live the happy, productive and rewarding lives they deserve,” says Sarah McGowan, NorthStar Guild President.

Antwone Fisher has worked as a screen & literary writer for more than 26 years. Among his many writing projects is the classic feature film, Antwone Fisher, based on his own life, directed by and starring Oscar-winning actor Denzel Washington. Fisher’s first book, Finding Fish: A Memoir, chronicles his inspiring story and became a New York Times and national bestseller. His collection of poetry, Who Will Cry for the Little Boy?, was also a national bestseller, creatively revealing the road from his tumultuous childhood to the man he is today. Fisher’s third book, A Boy Should Know How to Tie a Tie, won the 2011 award for Best Literary WorkInstructional from the NAACP. “NorthStar and the Omaha Outward

Bound School have been delivering transformational experiences, both in and out of the classroom, for almost ten years,” says Scott Hazelrigg, President of NorthStar Foundation & the Omaha Outward Bound School. “Opportunities to build Omaha’s future leaders through programming that inspires and instills a life rooted in education, selfdiscipline and service to the community— this is what the Climb Higher Event supports each year.” Individual tickets for the events start at $125 and table sponsorships range from $1,000 to $10,000 with a portion being tax deductible. For more information or to purchase tickets, please go online to www. northstar360.org/luncheon.

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PRAISE, WORSHIP, DEVOTION, OBITUARIES & INSPIRATION

Lois M. Tate September 3, 2021

Lois M. Tate passed away on Friday September 3, 2021. She was born June 19, 1950 in New Orleans, LA to the late Ignatius Harold Williams and Emelda Williams. She was a child of an active service member and traveled through out the states along with several years in England. She spent most of her formative years in Omaha, NE. Her memory will forever be cherished by her great family left behind. SERVICES will be held at Roeder Mortuary on Tuesday, September 14 at 5pm. Lois loved to work for charitable organizations. She spent most of her adult life giving back to organizations especially working with the youth of our society. She worked with the youth in Omaha, NE and in her relocation to Sioux City, IA. Roeder Mortuary 4932 Ames Ave.

Zion Baptist Church Marks 133 Years of “An Immoveable Church Celebrating an Unstoppable God” Zion Baptist Church and Pastor Kenneth A. Allen will be celebrating 133 years of service to God and to the state of Nebraska and beyond on Sunday, September 19th, and Wednesday, September 22nd; culminating in their Anniversary Finale, on Sunday, September 26, 2021. The Greater Omaha Community is cordially invited to join them for these Rev. Kenneth Allen special occasions, as they praise God for His faithfulness to the ministry of Zion Baptist Church. The celebration will begin with Sunday morning service, on September 19th, at 10:00 AM where the entire church has been invited to share their testimonies and sing praises to God’s faithfulness, grace and love. On Wednesday, they will Rev. Dr. Dylon Young host a special in-person Anniversary Prayer Service from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM. And finally, on Sunday, September 26, 2021, at 9:30 AM Zion will host its monthly baptism service in the church fellowship hall. And at 10:00 Pastor Kenneth Allen will bring a Spirit- filled Word from the Lord during the morning worship. Immediately following the service, Zion will host a reception in the Fellowship Hall, and the public is also invited to attend. We hope you can join us! The proud Pastor of Saint Paul Missionary Baptist Church, Rev. Dr. Dylon Young, will also bring a brief inspirational message during the reception. Every member of Zion has also been encouraged to make a sacrificial offering of at least one dollar for every year that Zion has been in existence. If you need transportation or require more information about this event, please call the church office at (402) 346-1502. Transportation must be requested at least two days in advance of the event. Zion looks forward to you joining them in praise and worship, marking 133 years of “An Immovable Church Celebrating An Unstoppable God.” (1 Corinthians 15:54-58)

OEDC Farmer’s Market Every Thursday until October there is a farmer’s market in the OEDC parking lot (2221 North 24th Street). This is a pay-what-you-want market from 5pm7pm. In partnership with local farmers the market provides our community with access to healthy, locally grown produce where the food you buy at the Farmers Market is fresh from the farm reflecting the truest flavors. For more information contact Cyndi Hume 402504-1842.

THOMAS FUNERAL HOME & Cremation Services TRADITION • RESPECT • DIGNITY

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3920 North 24th St. Omaha, NE 68110 402-453-7111 www.omahathomasfh.com

THE OMAHA STAR

Page Seven

Mission Accomplished By Velma J. Sanders

Whether it was construction delays, unanticipated detours, bad weather, car trouble, accidents or unexpected sickness, most of us have been on a road trip where things did not go as smoothly as we would have desired. The Son of God, Jesus Christ, was sent by the Father on a road trip, as it were, with a mission to go to Jerusalem. It is there that He would suffer, be rejected by the elders; be killed and be raised on the third day. He was on a journey of Divine purpose. He must go to Jerusalem – to suffer; to die; to be raised. Even at the age of twelve, Jesus was focused on this assignment as He asked Joseph and Mary, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” It is at about the age of 30 years old, when Jesus’ public ministry commenced; where He went about healing the sick; preaching the gospel of the kingdom, casting out demons, teaching, training disciples, and doing miracles. But, all of this happened with His set-purpose ever before Him - going to Jerusalem to suffer and to die; to pay the price for sin. So momentous was this task that Moses and Elijah, appeared in glory, and talked with Jesus about what He was about to accomplish at Jerusalem.

All along the way, on the journey, Jesus met with opposition because of the Divine assignment, that only He could do. His opposition even coming from the devil himself was fierce; strong and without regress; coming in various forms. For example, after His birth, when Herod was killing babies; when the tempter was talking in the wilderness; even one of His disciples said, “Far be it from You, Lord; this shall not happen to You.” All of it was sent to derail Jesus from His mission of going to Jerusalem – in obedience to the Father. All was sent to abort Jesus’ Divine assignment. But in spite of everything, Jesus was on course. Luke 9:2 says, And He went through the cities and villages, teaching, and journeying toward Jerusalem. One day some Pharisees came, saying to Him, “Get out and depart from here, for Herod wants to kill You.” And He said to them, “Go, tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I shall be perfected.’” Nevertheless, I must journey today, tomorrow, and the day following; for it cannot be that a prophet should perish outside of Jerusalem. In conclusion, Jesus completed the journey to Jerusalem in spite of all opponents. He was able to do it because His devotion and love to the Father outweighed every cunning device. Because of His complete obedience to the Father, Jesus was able to say while hanging on Calvary’s cross, “It is finished!” And, according to His word, three days later He was raised from the dead … just as He said! Mission accomplished! Vsanders875@centurylink.net

Kids Talk About God How Can I Accept the Way I Look? (Part 2 of 3) By Carey Kinsolving and Friends “I can learn to accept my appearance as a unique creation of God if I could have a little more money so that maybe I can get a pony!” says Madeline, 10. First you get the pony, and then you’ll want the hat, western shirt and boots. Everyone wants a pony. It’s something that we desire to make us look better. But after we get our pony, there’s always another one just over the horizon. For years, my pony has been a baby blue Jaguar convertible. If I could only get a Jag, I know I would look sooo much better. But then, I would have to have the little sports car hat and driving gloves as well. “I can be happy with the way I look by remembering when Seth’s sister said I look cute,” says Joshua, 6. Hey, if Seth’s sister says you’re cute, that’s great. But what if another girl says you look like a bull with buck teeth? What happens then? Grant, 11, has something to say about this: “Throughout my life, people called me names because that’s the way most people think

about my looks. God created me, and you should know God created you the way you are for a reason.” Only the divine perspective can lift us above the chatter of people who try to get ahead by name calling. Every time I fly on an airplane, I’m always amazed at how quickly the people and cities below become so small. If you could travel to the moon, the entire Earth would appear as a dot. The closer you become to God, the less you’ll be disturbed by the opinions of cruel people. When you know that God created you for a reason, you can accept your appearance as part of God’s plan. This doesn’t mean you should live on Twinkies and Kool-Aid. Accepting your appearance as part of God’s plan includes being a good steward of what God gave you. While we’re on the subject of food, I know my wife will be glad to hear what Chelsea, 11, said: “I’m like a piece of chocolate candy, and God is the candy maker. He molds my life to make it fit his image.” There will probably be times when we feel more like a dried-up turnip than a piece of delectable Godiva chocolate. During these times, we

have to lock onto what God is doing and ignore other voices. “Sometimes you might not feel like you look good, but it doesn’t matter what you look like on the outside. It matters what’s on the inside,” says Andrew, 9. The story of the prophet Samuel’s search for the Lord’s anointed man to replace King Saul reminds us of the difficulty of looking past outward appearances. Samuel was a prophet of God, yet when he saw David’s older brother, he thought this surely must be the Lord’s anointed. “But the Lord said to Samuel, `Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart’” (I Samuel 16:7). Think about this: God wants to deliver us from living by appearance. Memorize this truth: I Samuel 16:7 quoted above. Ask this question: If a prophet of God can be taken in by someone’s appearance, how much more do we need to be on guard against choosing our friends based on their appearance?

Becoming what Christ died for us to be

The idea of not being spiritually prepared to trust Christ because of a lack of interest is like being told that you have been scheduled to box a champion fighter this coming Friday night, even though you have no boxing experience and are in terrible physical condition. It’s too late to start training and you will easily be knocked out with one punch. Another scenario would be that you have been given one week to compete in a body-building contest against other contenders that have been lifting weights for years. You have never lifted weights, are overweight. It will be obvious to everyone that you did not take this seriously. The same is true with knowing God and His Word and today is the day to start building faith so that we will be ready to stand strong when trials and tribulations come. I remember the song, “Wasted days and wasted nights” and this could not be a more clear explanation of our lives if we refuse to invest our time seeking God’s presence. Solomon told the Almighty that above all things he wanted more wisdom and understanding and the Lord was very pleased. How would you respond to God if He were to ask you what you would want more than anything in the world? No person is called to speak for God who has not first listened to Him. We do not serve, write, nor speak because we want to say something: we communicate because we

THE BLACK PRESS AND THE BLACK CHURCH: Both Born Out of Necessity For Self-Expression And Both Black - Owned. Together, The Press And the Pulpit Can Give Us Full Citizenship Immediately

have something to say. God’s conviction is a stirring of the soul like burning coals and the flames of intensity are measured by our love. Do we have a passion for His refining fire and to be purified as a servant and messenger for His glory? Do not expect to grow in holiness if you spend little time alone with the Lord and do not take your covenant vow with Him seriously. One of the greatest revelations of wisdom is that we can be as close to Him as we want. Another is learning how to be quiet long enough to get acquainted with our soul and to listen in the silence for His still small voice. Do you desire to be alone with God? He longs to reveal His mysteries and one of these is the beauty of silence. The Lord speaks, “Be still and know that I am God” in Psalm 46:10. It is in the secret place of the Most High where we learn to have ears to hear what His Spirit has to say. When is the last time you closed yourself away with God to pray and listen? This is the most effective home remedy for fear and anxiety in existence. If you’ve ever tried to explain the Bible with someone who has never been a seeker of spiritual knowledge and is without the sensitivity of the Holy Spirit, you have witnessed how difficult it is for the natural mind to grasp an understanding of the Christian life. Those who do not know Christ are unable to comprehend divine truth because they have a strong delusion over their conscience. Most people live in the natural default system of their emotions and guided by their fallen human nature. Our discernment is crucial for leading someone to God’s love, but we can only tell them, we cannot make anyone believe. William Wilberforce is quoted as saying, “You may choose to look the other way, but you can never say again that you did not know.” Following God’s directions is one of the most difficult goals we will ever try to reach in our lives, but it is the meaning and purpose of this life. Let us keep praying that eyes will be opened and hearts will be changed in the name of Jesus. Satan’s domain is called a kingdom of darkness because his number one goal is to keep everyone from being able to see the light of God’s truth. We are all groping in the darkness until the Lord illuminates our conscience. Once we see His light, we have the choice to embrace it or walk away. If we choose to receive the reality of who He is and what He demands, we can begin to walk in His perfect peace and joy. We realize the warfare will continue to increase as our understanding and faith increases, however, as we trust Him with all of our hearts, He empowers us to become what He died for us to be. Learn more about the Christian life at: billyhollandministries.com

PRAISE & WORSHIP DIRECTORY

Page Eight THE OMAHA STAR

September 17, 2021

ALLEN CHAPEL A.M.E.

SACRED HEART CATHOLIC CHURCH

Rev. Willie Morris, Pastor 2842 Monroe Street Omaha, NE 68107 Off: (402) 5734-3399 Email: admin@allenchapelomaha.org

Rev. Willie Morris

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

Fr. Dave Korth

MORNING STAR BAPTIST CHURCH 2019 Burdette Street Omaha, NE 68110 Ph: 402-342-0018

Fr. Dave Korth

Worship Service .............10:00 a.m. Sunday School .................8:45 a.m. Excluding First Sunday Tuesday Evening Service.........7:00 p.m.

“Where Life is for Everyone”

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

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

SUNDAYS 10:00 AM

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

SALEM BAPTIST CHURCH

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

MOUNT CALVARY COMMUNITY CHURCH

Drs. Martin & Lynnell Williams Founders & Lead Pastors

“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

BETHEL MISSIONARAY BAPTIST CHURCH Rev. Dr. Lorenzo S.L. Fincher Senior Pastor 5318 South 30th Street Omaha, NE 68107 Phone: (402) 731-1840

Bishop Kevin Chambers

Dr. Ralph B. Lassiter, Pastor 2602 N. 24th St. Off: (402) 451-8800 Fax: (402) 451-8522 mtmoriahomaha.net pastorlassiter@gmail.com

Rev. Ralph Lassiter, Sr.

Wednesday Bible-Prayer Service 11:30 a.m. & 6:30 p.m

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.

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

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

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.

8:30 am Early Sunday Morning Worship 9:30 - 10:15 am Sunday Morning Breakfast 10:15 - 11:15 am Sunday School 11:30 am Sunday Morning Worship 6:30 pm Wednesday Bible Study 8:00 pm Friday Night Service Noon day prayer Thursday - Saturday

Pastor Kenneth A. Allen

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.

Rev. Morita Truman, Lead Pastor

Pastor Barbara Mitchell

2215 Grant Street Omaha, NE 68110 Ph: 402-346-1502 Fax: 402-344-2720

Pastor Terry L. Arvie

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

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

ZION BAPTIST CHURCH Rev. Kenneth A. Allen, Pastor

“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

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.

MT. MORIAH MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

Sunday School .............................................. 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship ..........................................10:45 a.m. Overcomers in Christ......................Sunday 7:00 p.m.

CLAIR MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

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)

PLEASANT GREEN BAPTIST CHURCH

Rev. Morita Truman

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

Wednesday: Prayer Power Hour ......................................12:00 p.m Thursday: Youth For Christ ............................................6:00 p.m Prayer & Bible Study ....................................6:30 p.m Sunday: Sunday School.................................................9:00 a.m. Morning Worship..........................................10:15 a.m. Charles Galloway - President, Rev John Deang - Pastor, Dr John Beasley - Elder

HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH

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

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

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

JOY OF LIFE MINISTRIES COGIC

Pastors Eric and Cynthia Butler

Rev. Michael Voithofer

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

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 Eric Butler and Co-Pastor Cynthia Butler

Rev. Dr. Selwyn Q. Bachus

TABERNACLE OF FAITH CHURCH

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

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

Services: Sunday School .................................................... 9:30 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship Experience ......... 11:00 a.m. Word On Wednesday (WOW) ........................ 7:00 p.m.

“Large enough to serve you, Small enough to know you”

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

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

Pastor: Rev. Michael Voithofer

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

September 17, 2021

BUSINESS BITES/CLASSIFIEDS

St Francis needs workers

Saint Francis Ministries Foster Care is looking to recruit more loving and wonderful foster parents that are willing to open their hearts to provide a home and quality care to children who need a safe space to heal and build hope. Nebraska is in need of Foster Parents that are willing to provide daily care and support, for children of all ages. Our greatest need is homes open to teenagers, youth with expansive medical needs, teen moms, and youth belonging to the LGBTQ+ community. This care is aimed at promoting healthy physical and emotional growth, while recovering from trauma and being separated from their families. If you have an interest in serving your community as a foster parent and want to positively influence a young person’s life, please call Lacy Mueller, Foster Care Home Recruiter, at Saint Francis Ministries at 402-813-3168 or email lacy.mueller@st-francis. org.

Omaha Land Bank Ambassadors The Omaha Land Bank is pleased to announce its inaugural class of Land Bank Ambassadors. Participants will meet monthly for one year, from Sept. 2021 to July 2022. Sessions will cover a number of topics such as Land Bank operations (including acquisitions and dispositions); an introduction to the public process; affordable housing policy considerations; understanding tax lien certificates and the foreclosure process; and diversity, equity and inclusion training. “The creation and implementation of the Ambassador Program has been a goal of the Land Bank for some time,” said Shannon Snow, Omaha Land Bank executive director. “We will now be able to better engage our neighbors and community.” While originally planning to select 15 Ambassadors for the inaugural class, the response from each applicant made that decision tougher than expected. In the end, the Land Bank decided to expand the first class to 21 for additional insight and impact. Members of the 2021-2022 Ambassador Program class are: Clarice Jackson, Voice Advocacy Center - District 1 Courtney Vaughn, M.A., Mutual of Omaha - District 1

THE OMAHA STAR

Page Nine

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Land Bank continued on page 10

Business Connection Arborist

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Page Ten THE OMAHA STAR

YOUTH/EDUCATION NEWS

September 17, 2021

Meet the Mandela Team – Nurse Joy

Land Bank continued from page 9

Katie Kresha, M.P.A., City Sprouts - District 1 Dr. Nichelle Horton-Brown, Endeveren Family Medicine LLC - District 1 Gwendolyn Knave, TD Ameritrade - District 2 Jewel Rodgers, Noddle Companies - District 2 Tanesha Burns, Greater Tomorrows/Lincoln Financial Group - District 2 Tiba Brown, ExNihilo Development LLC - District 2 Traéa Bowden, Omaha Housing Authority - District 2 Andrew Wesely, Ayars & Ayars Inc. - District 3 Angel Starks, Team Locale with Nebraska Realty District 3 Jennifer Bauer, Interpublic Group of Companies Inc. (IPG) - District 3 Tamara Dwyer, PCMSW, PLMHP, LMSW, Metro Area Continuum of Care for the Homeless (MACCH) District 4 Zach Reinhardt, Burlington Capital - District 4 Joe Zadina, P.E., Lamp Rynearson - District 5 Isaiah Ang, Farm Credit Services of America District 6 Barbra Dohmen, J.D., TitleCore National - District 7 Roman Dimaksyan, RabFak Construction - District 7 Autumn Evans, City of Omaha - lives outside of Omaha city limits Melissa Glenn, First Nebraska Bank - lives outside of Omaha city limits Shane Stratman, Security National Bank - lives outside of Omaha city limits Each ambassador brings a singular perspective to the program, including Jewel Rodgers, District 2, who has previously purchased property from the Land Bank. After receiving her Master of Science degree in Real Estate Development with a concentration on Sustainability from New York University, Rogers moved back to her hometown and now looks forward to sharing the Land Bank’s mission. “I am committed to the Omaha community,” she said. “An investment in me is an investment in my community for the long haul.” Many ambassadors also work in commercial lending, banking, real estate development and realty, or have gone through specialized training like Spark CDI’s Developer Academy. Zach Reinhardt, District 4, who

is currently a member of MAPA’s Regional Planning Advisory Committee and chairs their Housing and Development subcommittee, said he is most excited about the opportunity for the Land Bank to work with other nonprofit organizations to develop a pipeline of redevelopment and infill development. Since 2020, the Land Bank’s Community Relations Advisory Committee has been charged with creating a comprehensive community outreach strategy. One priority for the committee was the creation of the Ambassador Program to address the challenges involved in land banking while providing participants with a housing-specific diversity, equity and inclusion foundation. These challenges include: • The Land Bank’s limited staff capacity to conduct community outreach • The technical nature of land banking requires specialized training for volunteer board leadership to make educated decisions • The need to increase the pool of eligible applicants for the Land Bank Board: o Board must fulfill six professional requirements as outlined by the Nebraska Municipal Land Bank Act of 2013 and Omaha City Council Ordinance 40052 o Board should have representation from all seven City Council Districts o Board members must be appointed by the Mayor and approved by City Council • The need to ensure that the volunteer board is familiar with housing-specific diversity, equity and inclusion efforts and best practices • The need to preserve the culture of the Land Bank Board, and ensure the board is listening to and prioritizing the needs of residents in traditionally redlined communities and with 80% Area Median Income (AMI)

Upon its opening, Mandela only had two grades and was small enough to not have a full-time nurse on campus. Instead, staff members were certified in medication distribution, first aid, and CPR, and all necessary medical documents required to be on file were managed by the front office administrative staff. Now, Mandela is at full capacity. The combination Nurse Joy of higher enrollment and a global pandemic made the team realize that a nurse was needed on campus. The team found Nurse Joy Warden. Her services are provided through a corporate contract with CHI Health. Nurse Joy graduated from nursing school with her BSN in May of 1993 from Clarkson College. Most of her time has been spent in school health working in both the public and private schools in Omaha. She has worked as a nurse in school health for 25 years. She also has experience in emergency care and employee/ occupational health. Nurse Joy is passionate about school health and emergency preparedness. She says, “I couldn’t be more joyful to be here! I am thankful for this opportunity to serve in the role of the school nurse. I am also thankful that I have received such a warm welcome, and I already feel part of the NME family. I look forward to the new school year and getting to know all the scholars and their families.”

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Snow, the Omaha Land Bank’s executive director, said bringing new voices and perspectives to the Land Bank is an important goal. “We are honored to be doing this work,” she said, “and serving as an example of how land banks nationally can be better neighbors and prioritize community needs.

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