Vol. 83 - No. 1

75 CENTS

Omaha Star

The

Proudly Serving Our Community for Over 80 Years

Dedicated to the Service of the People that NO Good Cause Shall Lack a Champion and that Evil Shall Not Go Unopposed

Nebraska’s Only Black Owned Newspaper Vol. 83 - No. 1 Omaha, Nebraska

Friday, January 8, 2021

75 cents

Publisher’s Pen

Family of the Week:

By Terri D. Sanders

The Arvie Family

Back row (left to right): Chavez Morris, Taylor Arvie, Terry Arvie II, Abigail Arvie, Ra’Daniel Arvie, Jennifer Matthews, Parnell Matthews II Front Row (left to right); Pastor Terry L. Arvie, Parnell Matthews III, Mrs. Pamela D. Arvie

By Ilana Lewis When Terry and Pamela Arvie married on March 7, 1992, their lives forever changed. “We’ve known each other for all of our lives, God saw fit to bring us together and share our lives, One that we’ve never looked back from” Pamela said. Twenty-eight wonderful years later, the Arvies’ are the First Family of Mount Nebo Missionary Baptist Church (M.N.M.B.C.) and have six children, Krysten, Jennifer, Taylor, Terry ll, Ra’Daniel, and Abigail. They also have two grandchildren, Amayah Whittington, and Parnell Matthews lll (Trip).

The Arvies moved to Omaha, NE, in May of 2005 when Terry was called to pastor at M.N.M.B.C. On June 5, 2005, he was officially named Pastor. Since taking over, Pastor Arvie was elected President of the Baptist Pastors and Ministers Conference of Omaha and Vicinity, Incorporated. He is a board member at large of the National Baptist Convention USA, INC and serves as First Vice President of The New Era Baptist State Convention of Nebraska, Incorporated. Pastor Arvie has a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from McNeese State.

Pamela Arvie has taught elementary school for 21 years. She began her career teaching in Lake Charles Louisiana. She has a bachelor’s degree in education from McNeese State and a master’s in mathematics from the University of Nebraska Lincoln (UNL). Pamela is also the First Lady and Women’s Ministry Leader at M.N.M.B.C. Krysten,34, (not pictured) is a deputy probation officer and the CEO of Queen Hair Care & Co, Inc. She is

also the proud mother of daughter Amayah Whittington.

Amayah, 15, hopes to attend UCLA and subsequently UCLA law to become an attorney.

Jennifer,28, is a holistic wellness consultant. She married Parnell Matthews in October of 2020. They are the parents of Parnell Matthews III., 3 years old, who enjoys playing the drums.

Taylor, 24, teaches 5th and 6th-grade chorus as well as 7th and 8th-grade general music at Buffett Magnet Middle School. She is also the choir director at M.N.M.B.C. Terry II, 22, is a senior accounting major at UNL. He is currently interning with Lutz Financial. Terry is also President of the WEB DuBois Honors Society and the National Association of Black Accountants at the University of Nebraska Lincoln.

Ra’Daniel, 20, is a Junior Human Resource Management major at UNL. He is also a UNL OASIS (Office of Academic Success and Intercultural Services) mentor and praise and worship leader at M.N.M.B.C. Abigail, 11, the couple’s youngest is a 5th grader at Buffett and wants to be a singer or basketball player when she grows up.

The Arvie family enjoys worshiping together. “Worship and church have always been a large part of our lives” described Pamela. The family also likes to play games, watch movies, laugh, and have fun. The Arvies live by Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all of your heart…”. This year they are looking forward to the union of daughter Taylor and Chavez Morris, and the release of the first EP for their family gospel group The ARVIES.

Omaha Public Schools Elects Board President And New Board Members Welcomed

In a unanimous vote Monday evening, Jan. 4, the OPS Board of Education elected Dr. Shavonna Holman as the next President of the Board of Education.

Holman, who joined the Board in 2017, will serve a one-year term in the role.

Well-versed in the dayto-day needs of teachers, students and families, Dr. Shavonna Holman Holman spent more than 10 years in the public education sector serving both as an elementary school teacher and elementary principal. She currently leads the Master’s in Educational Administration Program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She has worked as an assistant professor of Educational Administration at the University

NOTARY SERVICES

Are available at Omaha Star Offices 2216 N 24th Street Monday-Friday 10am-3pm

of Nebraska-Lincoln since 2013. Her outreach work includes involvement with Cognia, collaborative research efforts with the Nebraska Department of Education Title I Office and Nebraska Center for Research on Children, Youth, Families and Schools.

In addition to electing a new Board President, the school district welcomed three new board members, Jane Erdenberger, Nick Thielen and Spencer Head. Erdenberger, who was elected Board Vice President, has spent more than 18 years teaching high school social studies while raising two daughters who are both Omaha Central High School graduates.

Thielen is an attorney and the father of an OPS kindergartner. He has volunteered for several organizations that promote childhood well-being and has served on the Foster Care Review Board. Head has served as a policy advisor for the Speaker of the Nebraska State Legislature.

He has also served as a community outreach liaison to the education and medical communities.

Next Issue

January 22, 2021

Information is due January 15, 2021 publisher@omahastarinc.com

HAPPY NEW YEAR! 2020 is in the rearview mirror of our lives and the fresh highway is 2021is before us. Let’s RIDE… In a couple of weeks #46 will be inaugurated and again history will be made. VP Elect Kamala Harris will coDavid Turnbo Photography lead our country. Now that is Black Magic…But there is nothing magic about an educated, experienced, and seasoned woman leading. Don’t get it twisted, she has what it takes.

This month we are looking at Economic Development which in my mind means in our community BUY Black.

I am a serial entrepreneur so I understand the concept of supply and demand. The pandemic has given many the opportunity to become entrepreneurs and Black women are leading the charge.

“It’s no exaggeration to say that the pandemic has decimated small businesses and early-stage ventures, especially those owned by women and people of color. Black women sit at this juncture, bearing a disproportionate share of the virus’ impact. For years, Black women have created new businesses at a rapid clip, far outpacing other racial and ethnic groups. But strong financial headwinds from the pandemic and a lack of access to new funding sources threaten to wipe out decades of economic progress, leaving Black female business owners in a state of perpetual uncertainty, waiting for relief they fear will never come.”

(Forbes, October 26, 2020). “Black women represent 42% of new women-owned businesses—three times their share of the female population—and 36% of all Black-owned employer businesses.”

While these examples are on a national scale, what about Omaha?

Recently I watched A Street of Dreams, (1994) on NETV

by Camille Steed, a local filmmaker. This documentary is about the rise and fall of the business community in “the near Northside”. Economic development is not a new concept in our community, but it does not have the momentum that it once had. In the documentary I saw many familiar faces, scenarios that I remembered from my childhood, and visuals of days gone by. I fondly say that our lives are not like that of the fictional character Benjamin Buttons, we cannot go back in time. Our landscape changed with the introduction of the interstate highway system, but I maintain that we MUST go forward.

Brick and mortar business are having a tough time.

Internet sales are overshadowing face to face sales. SO WHAT???? Do not get caught in the digital divide, change with the times and let’s flourish. What about an internet hub space in our community, where businesses can come and get assistance with their web-based businesses, from development professionals. We cannot be stuck. We must be on the move if we are going to survive. This is the future. Internet cafes. I challenge building owners to convert the “old” spaces into spaces that are technology hubs and encourage businesses to meet the challenge. That is development, economic development. Can we establish mini hubs in barber shops? What about at a local restaurant? A restaurant that has been downsized because of the pandemic can be an internet hub serving coffee and adult beverages/drinks—a place to meet, network and do business. Come on Omaha…

We no longer use rotary phones and everyone has a mini computer in their pocket and we are continuously scrolling. Let’s scroll for dollars in businesses that meet the needs of our communities. Our lives are ever changing and since you are still here, make a difference!

Do you have an article to share?

Do you have an announcement?

Do you have an OP-ED? publisher@omahastarinc.com

LOCAL NEWS THE OMAHA STAR, INC. MCC to host virtual THE VOICE OF THE BLACK COMMUNITY MLK Day MAILING ADDRESS: celebration Jan. 14

Page Two

THE OMAHA STAR

Editorial and Business Office 2216 North 24th Street Phone: 402.346.4041 PO Box 3393 Omaha, NE 68103

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Terri D. Sanders - publisher@omahastarinc.com Business Hours: Monday – Thursday: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 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: Interim Publisher Ebony Hawkins: 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.

DISCLAIMER

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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Metropolitan Community College will host the 36th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration on Thursday, Jan. 14 at noon. The virtual event will feature keynote speaker Maurice J. Hobson, Ph.D., associate professor of African Maurice J. Hobson, Ph.D American Studies and historian at Georgia State University. He’ll deliver the address, “The King of the World: Dr. Martin Luther King and the Power of Public Memory.” The celebration will also feature musical entertainment from Jason Wagner II, Chad Stoner and other artists.

Terri Sanders of the Omaha Star will be the mistress of ceremonies. The event is free and open to the public. No registration is necessary. Attendees may visit zoom.us/j/98143434039 at the scheduled start time. Contact interculturaled@mccneb.edu for more information.

About Maurice J. Hobson, Ph.D. Maurice Hobson’s research interests are grounded in the fields of 20th Century U.S. and AfricanAmerican history, African-American studies, oral history and ethnography, urban and rural history, political economy and popular cultural studies.

Hobson is working to form a new and emerging field that he describes as ‘Black New South Studies.’

Metropolitan Community College, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, is a comprehensive, public community college that offers affordable, quality education to all residents of Dodge, Douglas, Sarpy and Washington counties. Founded in 1974, MCC has the largest enrollment out of six community colleges in Nebraska and is the second largest postsecondary institution in the state. MCC serves more than 40,000 unique credit and noncredit students.

January 8, 2021

Promotion for Hudson

Captain Wayne Hudson has dedicated his life to service.

He served in the United States Air Force for six years prior to beginning his career in law enforcement. Captain Hudson’s law enforcement career began when he volunteered as a reserve deputy for Douglas County Sheriff’s Department in 1994 and was hired full-time in Captain Wayne Hudson 1995.

Captain Hudson rose through the ranks of the Sheriff’s department, serving in a variety of units. He is currently assigned to the Uniform Services Bureau. Captain Hudson understands the importance of community policing and actively works to improve police-community relationships.

Captain Hudson also knows the importance of or diversity in law enforcement and has been instrumental in changing the recruitment efforts for his department to attract more minority candidates.

Captain Hudson takes pride in giving back to the community. Wayne is very active in the community and serves on the following boards: Women Center for Advancement, Coalition RX, National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives-Nebraska chapter, the Black Police Officers Association of Omaha, and the African American Correctional Officer Association. He is also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated and a member of the 100 Black Men of Omaha. Captain Hudson was selected to serve on the City of Omaha Charter Review Committee. Wayne has been recognized for his work by being selected as the Douglas County Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Living the Dream award recipient and Urban League Leadership Award in Government.

On January 15, 2021, Captain Hudson will be promoted to Chief Deputy. Captain Hudson will be the first African American to hold this position in the 164 year history of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office. Wayne often says “your current situation is only temporary; you can be whatever you want in life if you believe it and work hard to achieve it.”

As a product of North Omaha, he knows first-hand that this statement is true.

Newly appointed Chief Deputy Hudson is excited about the possibility of running for Douglas County Sheriff in 2022.

Thoughts of a College Girl:

Understanding why people ghost Relationship woes: why people disappear without an explanation Relationship woes: the other side of ghosting Poof be gone for good: stop taking ghosting so personal

By Asia Rollins Being ignored isn’t fun. If you have ever dated, chances are that you have encountered a ghoster somewhere along the way. Ghosting occurs when someone cuts all communication with you without an explanation. The big question is how do we not let ghosting turn into a huge ego bruise?

The reality is that people have issues, and you aren’t the center of everyone’s universe. On one hand, bad communication skills can be one of the issues that lead to you being ghosted. There are adults who truly don’t have the courage to say that they have no interest in you, or their intentions changed overtime. Again, keep in mind that traumatic events pop up, and people check out of reality.

Life happens and if the person decides to come back with an apology, you can decide how to handle the situation.

However, never feel pressure to reconnect with ghosters.

Also, you shouldn’t be so hurt about ghosting because people lie. There’s a long list of lies somebody will tell

while dating. The most common lies are centered around people not being honest about their relationship status, having children or their actual level of attraction. At times, these lies can be small. People will lie about what city they’re from and where they went to school. Usually, things start off heavenly when the person can keep up the lie, but as soon as you almost pull their card they disappear.

Whenever you’re putting yourself out there, it’s helpful to be aware of the dating culture that we’re in. We live in a society that is very into image, technology and social media presence. Along with unrealistic, filtered expectations, technology has made it easier for people to create a fake persona and ghost. On dating apps such as Tinder and Bumble, you can swipe to your next best option because there are endless options online. You might have been ghosted because you didn’t live up to someone’s idea of looking like an Instagram model. The only standard that you have to maintain is working on being the best version of yourself.

Try not to lose any sleep playing private investigator haunting down your ghoster. Nine times out of ten, someone’s decision to disappear without an obvious reason is not your fault. If you are dating in today’s society, realize that ghosting will happen. The sooner you learn to not internalize the immature act, the easier dating will be. If a ghoster comes back with a logical reason for their actions, you can decide if giving them another chance is with it, but usually a ghost is better off dead.

Christmas Baskets by Prince Hall Grand Lodge Members The Most worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Nebraska, Free and Accepted Masons currently under the direction of Most Worshipful Grand Master Freddie Clopton located at 2418 Ames Avenue. Our Fraternity has been in the North Omaha Community for over 102 years, along with Amaranthus Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star will be celebrating 100 years in 2021.

The Prince Hall Freemasons and Eastern Stars have been providing Christmas baskets for needy families for over 90 years along with serving over 450 Thanksgiving meals to Six adopted towers under the Omaha Housing Authority. Due to COVID-19 we were not able to serve meals this year, however through one of our several masonic lodges we were able to provide over 130 Thanksgiving baskets in the North Omaha community to help during these trying times.

Our organization also provides Educational Scholarships through our Prince Hall Education

Foundation where we provide local High School Students educational assistance. Giving back to the community is what we are all about and with these hard times we are trying everything we can to make a difference in the community.

If you could let your contact know at the Omaha Star that we have several events that we would like to have coverage if they feel it is news worthy. I didn’t mention that we opened our facility for the first time as a voting poll for the North Omaha Community. When there are the local and primary elections we are now an official voting poll. Our facility is also on the National Register of Historic places. I have ordered the marker for our building and will be here sometime in January, If possible I would like to reach out to the Omaha Star again with your assistance once we attach the plaque on the building and give then a little bit of the history of our building.

Members of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, Prince Hall Affiliated (PHA) and Amaranthus Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star (PHA).

Left to Right:Henry Atkinson, Phyllis Wilson, Cynthia Mitchell, Jerome McCowin, Michael Wilcoxon, and Most Worshipful Grand Master Freddie Clopton.

LOCAL NEWS

January 8, 2021

THE OMAHA STAR

Page Three

Be Careful with Yourself

By WithLove Felicia

As we embark upon a new year, let’s not forget to be gentle with ourselves; gentle with our minds; gentle with our hearts and gentle with our bodies, because 2020 gave us a vision we will never forget seeing.

Let’s just recap the journey…

We started the year off in the usual way. We worked.

We played. We partied. We worshipped. We shopped.

We gathered. We celebrated. We made love. We touched.

We held hands. We hugged. We kissed. We played. We schooled. We competed. We danced. We traveled. We went to concerts & movies. We went to restaurants and comedy shows. We attended plays and art gallery openings and so on.

We enjoyed life as we knew it to be normally, until the pandemic hit and our world was turned upside down.

Not only were we witnessing covid-19 & all of the after effects it would have on us as a community/ village and huemanity as a whole, but simultaneously, the revolution was being televised, with the live and in living color murder of George Floyd and other beautiful Black bodies from around the country; to include our own back yard.

Talk about a year! Talk about ongoing trauma! So when I say, let’s be gentle with ourselves,I really mean,let’s be gentle with ourselves,because we deserve it. Now what does that look like?

Here are 25 gentle tips to consider: 1. Rest when you feel like it. A nap is powerful and necessary by all means.

2. Turn off the news and social media for a day or two. Unplug from the world and plug into you.

3. Do nothing; absolutely nothing. A self love pledge to your body, mind and soul.

4. Stop shaming yourself for what you didn’t accomplish at home or work. It wasn’t a “normal,”year.

Break the task down into sections.

5. Tell the critic in your head to shut up and sit down.

You did the best you could at the time.

Omaha Performing Arts has announced the return of Holland Center Outdoors, a series of concerts on the Holland’s outdoor east lawn beginning in May 2021.

Holland Center Outdoors will feature live performances from May to October 2021, showcasing a variety of national touring and local performing artists. Patrons can purchase tickets to enjoy live music outside while relaxing in socially distant lawn squares in the heart of downtown Omaha. Lawn chairs and blankets are encouraged. Food and drinks will be available for purchase.

“We held O-pa’s first Holland Center Outdoors concerts last fall with socially distanced seating, and patrons were thrilled with the experience,” said O-pa president Joan Squires. “We are excited to present more opportunities for Omaha to come together throughout the spring and summer to enjoy entertainment in a lively outdoor setting.”

More details, including ticketing and performance information is coming soon. Updates are available at O-pa. org.

Commitment to Safety Health and Safety are a priority at the Orpheum Theater and Holland Performing Arts Center. O-pa has implemented several changes to provide the best performing arts experience and ensure the health and safety of patrons, staff, artists, volunteers and the community.

Enhanced Cleaning & Sanitation – Electrostatic technology disinfecting large common areas, enhanced sanitizing of high touch surfaces with hospital grade disinfectant and hand sanitizing stations throughout the venues Heating and Cooling System – Upgrades to air handling units includes bipolar ionization filtering out viruses through ventilation Staff Precautions – Staff and volunteers are required to wear face masks and receive temperature checks. Anyone with a temperature above 100° or experiencing symptoms will not be permitted on-site Touchless Experience – Faster and more efficient entry into the venues with touchless security checks, mobile ticketing, ticket scanning and cashless transactions

THE

of Martin MAHA Luther King holida y TAR Ben Gray to speak at Marti

Dedicated to the Service of the Shall Lack a Champion People that NO Good Cause and that Evil Shall Not Go Unopposed Nebraska’s

Only Black Owned

Luther King Day

Newspaper

n

event

Omaha City Councilman Ben Gray will commemorative deliver a address on the Monday, Jan. UNMC campus 18, to on Rev. Martin Luther honor slain civil rights leader, King Jr. Gray’s speech, which is sponsored The Nebraska Medical Center, by UNMC and Truhlsen Campus will be in the Events Center Center. in the Sorrell “We are pleased The Partnership to bring a city For community volunteer leader and tireless non-profit organization Our Kids, a Schools.” to campus,” Newland, M.D., that provides disadvantaged director of UNMC’s said Myrna “The Partnership The mission of students For Our Kids Staples Foundation and coordinator of Equity Office academic enrichment with positive works to for Learning Inc. the Martin Luther provide Commemoration is to teach, train King Day received a $10,000 experiences, has mentary school disadvantaged ele- inspire.

Committee. “I and Founded in 2002, grant from Staples students with positive believe our campus Foundation for the founda- can look forward to an Learning, a private academic enrichment experiences,” tion has contributed inspiring and speech.” foundation created relevant said Briana Curran, million to national more than $17 manager, Staples The annual address and local charities Funding from SFFL by Staples Inc. Foundation that is provide educational regularly one for Learning. will support the of the city’s “Staples and opportunities best attended events on Winners Circle Foundation for Martin Luther job skills for all program, which Learning supports King Jr. Day. people, with a This year, the event starts pro- Winners vides underserved the special Circle program, at noon, is free which cre- youth. emphasis on disadvantaged to the public. Guests dents with access elementary stu- ates an environment and open to rigorous math, Staples Foundation the visitor parking can park in Lot 15V, which where youth are reading and citizenship recognized for is for area located on Learning has also their achievements the south side developed lasting the Student Life Center increase their academic activities to teachers, peers, by relationships of at the corner of parents and the achievement.

40th & Jones com- of America, with Boys & Girls Clubs Streets.

“The Winners munity.”

Circle program Earth Force, Hispanic Gray is a first-time ensures disadvantaged Winners Circle students have for the 2nd District. elected city council member and All Our Kids Heritage Foundation, and the the resources and Initiative joined forces in for a Competitive support needed 2007 to form Prior to his election, Inner City. In addiOmaha City Councilman to Partnership develop an enthusiasm The tion, Staples Gray had a 30-year For Our Kids, to Ben Gray Foundation for a television for learning,” help dis- supports said Beth Smith, career as Learning photojournalist nered with Executive Director, advantaged students. The Partnership Ashoka, an “Kaleidoscope” the emergency Winners Circle on Omaha’s ABC’s and host of Nebraska develops and supportsorganization that KETV department at Program of The creates a community of caring Medical Center affiliate station, NewsWatch social entreprePartnership For dents from pre-kindergarten for stu- neurs around to use intervention The Our Kids. “With discussions about 7. The show featured passionate gies to decrease youth the world, in nine stratesup- high school through tries: port from Staples violence, such a variety of Argentina, Belgium, coun- Gray has to help Foundation for as immediate community issues. engagement after violent won multiple Learning we can Brazil, taged youth graduate more disadvan- Canada, incidents to reduce local, regional tion attempts. continue France, Germany, awards as a reporter, and pursue highretaliaand national grades and standardized to increase er education the photojournalist In 1998, Gray to become employable Netherlands, Spain and test scores for Gray dedicates and his wife, youth throughout the United productive citizens much of his time and host.

States. For more Freddie, began ing with the African-American Omaha Public lives of severely who give back information about workto foundation their community. at-risk youth and to improving the to close the Achievement or how to apply gang members. the achievement Council for a grant, is the emergency team He Omaha gaps of children visit www. staplesfoundation.org.

Community Connection, director for Impact Public School in the (OPS) District.

Inc. — a non-profit, One A sought lence prevention vio- his Martin after motivational speaker, organization.

Its members Gray titled Luther King Jr. part- Love,” Day speech, “Strength after one of Dr. to King’s most read books.

Vol. 72 - No.

2 Omaha, Nebraska

Partnership For $10,000 grant Our Kids receives from Staples Thursday, January

KS Science Fair

7, 2010

50 cents

Excellence Winner

s

North Omaha Boys & Girls Club Welcome s Club Members New and Old for the New Year

On Jan. 4 the North Omaha Boys & Girls new and old Club Club opened members. The its doors to a new year with Club staff looks new Club parents forward to beginning age appropriate and members. programs for We offer a variety kids ages gram areas such of as, Sports, Fitness, 6-18. We offer five core Leadership Development, pro& Recreation, Character & Education & Career Life Skills, and Development, The Health & from certain schools Arts. We are also offering FREE transportation In order to qualify in the Omaha metro area (please a paid program for this special service all Club call for a listing). membership fee members Spring program and a valid membership must have fee is $30.00 card. Our that will be valid Club hours are from 3-8 p.m.

Jan. 4 - May For more Club 7. Our and ask for Mr. information call Dave 342-2300 Happy New Year Felici, Unit Director. and we hope to see you at the Club!

Career & Scholarsh

ip Fair

Congratulations to...the King Science & Technology Science Fair.

Students Magnet students school congratulated wrote detailed reports, who won awards conducted experiments the eight Award for emony. Pictured of Excellence and presented their projects in the annual are the Awards winners and 7th & a display board Alec Williams; 25 first place Luke Armitage; of Excellence winners (l to at least two 8th grade winners with to r): Emily Beck; and Katie Cramer. Nick Schultz; Ian Brummel; a Breakfast of Champions judges. The awards cerMadeleine Dangerfield; Martha Winterer;

Best of the New

York International

Children’s Film

The African American Career and Scholarship Achievement Council will have its 4th Fair on Saturday Annual High Magnet from 9 A.M. to School, 4410 3 P.M. at North N. 36th St. Those seeking employment should and dressed for come prepared success. Lunch with a resume will be provided. information call 557-4470.

To RSVP or for more

page 10

Festival

On Monday , January 11 on NET1 and NET-HD, Sam Cooke and Marvin Gaye See page 2 for details

Online Advertising Advertise your product or services by connecting to Omaha Natives online at theomahastar.com

Benefits of Online Advertising Targeted: You can reach a specific reader based on areas of interest and context of the content.

The country’s largest film festival for children and including traditional, teens will be making stop in Omaha CGI, collage beginning in January a tour stop-motion styles. and Live Action.

Film Streams More than when tries are In presents the Best represented, including ten coun- Recommended English. Australia; 95 min. of the New York International ages: 9 to adult. works from Australia, (NYICFF). From Children’s Film Festival Germany, Denmark, Finland, France, Jan. 9 to March Latvia, Sweden, Streams’ Ruth 18, Film U.K. Switzerland, the Feb. 6-7, 11, 13-14, 18 — Sokolof Theater, and nonprofit cinema, Omaha’s within the U.S. Tickets for all screenings Azur & Asmar Directed will screen five Best

by Michel Ocelot. best programs of the for seniors, of NYICFF are $9 general, from $7 students, teachers A dazzling animated series continues the 2009 NYICFF. The dren, and chilFilm Streams’ feature about and $4.50 Young family two Forever Members. for Film Streams boys raised as brothers, and children’s who set off on dangerous quest which is made program, Streams’ All screenings will occur a through faraway possible in part at Film find Ruth Sokolof lands to and free the port from Lincoln with Theater, located Fairy of the Financial Group. sup- the corner of 14th at Animation. and Mike Fahey Founded in 1997, In English. France; Djinns. (for- Recommended NYICFF is dedicated merly Webster) Streets, to promoting one block south ages: 6 to adult. 99 min.

Cuming Street. intelligent, of passionate, provocative cinematic More information works for audiences ages 3-18 and on all five programs Feb. 20-21, 25, 27-28, within Best helping to define March 4 — NYICFF Kids of NYICFF compelling film a more online can Flix be found experience for at www.filmstreams A kaleidoscopic Juried by such kids. www.gkids.tv/tour. collection of .org or animated well-known filmmakers the best John Turturro, For questions, short films as contact Casey Susan Sarandon, from around Logan at 933-0259 please world, featuring Schamus, Matthew the James email traditional x11 or CGI, at casey@filmstream collage, and stop-motion. animation, Sant, the festival Modine and Gus Van s.org.

The schedule: has been In 65 English. described min.

The New York Recommended by Times as being ages: 3 to 8. “devoted to the kind of fare Jan. 9-10, that may be found March 6-7, 11, Academy Awards at the Razzle 14, 16-17, 21 — 13-14, 18 — but not at the Dazzle Directed tiplex.” local mulby Darren Ashton. NYICFF Party Mix A mockumentary An all-animated skewering the Best of NYICFF program ties absurdiof competition features one live-action featuring hilarious, comedy and youth dance troupe between kids on the vokingvisually stunning, and thought-profour animated programs, involved circuit – and the shorts, specifically hyper- older parents who intended for audiences. In live through Seniors Alexis English them. titles.

Page and Ayomide 75 min. Recommendedor English suband queen at Adekunle were Central High ages: 9 to 16. crowned king Homecoming

North Omaha Development Project Community Meeting is scheduled for January th 28 Details on

Writing to Better Health

Our office will closed Janua be th in observance ry 18 ,

★ SO

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Festival Self-Empowerment St. Paul Baptist Church July 13th, 2010

OMAHA STAR

★ THE

Cause of the People that NO Good Dedicated to the Service that Evil Shall Not Go Unopposed Shall Lack a Champion and

Nebraska’s Only Black Owned

Newspaper

Details on page 4

Empowerment Network

meeting canceled

next meeting will has been cancelled. The Network Monthly Meeting will begin at 9 a.m.

This Saturday’s Empowerment Breakfast and networking High School - Viking Center. be held Aug. 14 at North meeting will begin at 9:30.

Displays to help Parents, and the interactive community Development. Tables and Partner.

Education and Youth become a Mentor or Adopt-A-Class The focus will be on Opportunity to sign up to Presentations & Families, Students & Community. to help students succeed PLUS Special Interactive ways Learn more about specific Discussions. the web at www.empoweromaha.com.

502-5153 or visit us on For more information call

s Omaha Star Celebrate 72nd Anniversary

Nebraska Vol. 72 - No. 28 Omaha,

Thursday, July 8, 2010

50 cents

Special Thanks

MILDRED D. BROWN 9, 1938

Dr. Marguerita L. Washington,

Founded Omaha Star July

Publisher

homes as you are continue to repair and buy I can hardly of the people that no good money and invest it “Dedicated to the service now doing, save your believe that the bonds that you and that evil shall not go cause shall lack a champion wisely. Buy more Savings Omaha Star has if and when things unopposed.” may be comfortable been in existence for change. seventy-two years a former pastor of the newspaper, Mildred In an introduction to Reverend Joseph Forbes, and I have been the said, “Mildred was Gilbert wrote: St. John A. M. E. Church publisher for the It is with profound pleashe made her paper To the Citizens of Omaha: a friend of the pastors ... last twenty years. It a platform. She Publishing Co., and [sic] sure that the Omaha Star available anytime we needed seems like yesterday well trained journalistic ministry. She believed that organization of energetic, by saw her work as a that I started after my One entire page day a paper of the people, minds, give to you this God had given her a calling. aunt Mildred Brown We here and now wish devoted to the work of the people and for the people. its was per edition was expired. Some of the Omaha Star dedicates community, submitted by to have you know that in the churches in the you have been supserving the general public existence to the task of the pastors. porters almost from It shall be our policy the struggle for Among her concerns was every way humanly possible. of the start. Others Brown’s primary path of duty in the behalf to move in an unerring racial equality. Mildred became supporters it already had. She worked bringing to you the local Star was in selling Many others became supportfoothold in Omaha than Black America in Omaha, early role in the Omaha to work for equalas the years went by. sincere it, as well as the national an excellent salesperwith many organizations you I want to give my news of the city as we find of ads. She was not only of the National as a tool of tirelessly ers recently. To all of backing for the welfare that she could use the ads peace. She was a member highlights, promoting and ads to ity and in general. son; she found of Colored People thanks. newspaper America sell to Black Advancement and the refused for is fascinating. The Omaha the citizens of Omaha her activism. She the She Association Working at a newspaper Publishers Association, sea of journalistic advenemploy black workers. because this is our paper.

(NAACP), the Black As we launch out into the of companies that did not Star is especially fascinating her readers to procan the support of the general League, the Urban League Anyone who is interested ture, we sincerely request also used editorials to encourage and she challenged National Business Black museum.

This paper is about us. in when we as a group must military and the Great Plains and issues. Where else test the segregation of the public. The time is at hand plant Nebraska, active, she was submit their story, events Omaha Star a firm foundathat the Martin Bomber time during which it was Since the recent recession, them to apply for jobs begin to build. Give the She During the De Porres Club, and also this State can this happen? and reading support and rollerBase in Bellevue, Nebraska. the spokeswoman for the tion by way of subscribing an emotional, financial after enter- at Offutt Air Force the paper has also been who is widely remem- allowed it to meet in the Omaha Star building we in turn will build an hired Charles Washington, we will assure you that are determined to persevere. and a mouthpiece and a to support their own facility. coaster at times but we civil rights, as a reporter the club ran out of funds to contact us concerning bered for his work for prise worthy of consideration, working in the commuI encourage the public who was the executive She spent countless hours or even if you want to columnist. Whitney Young, force for the people of Omaha. commucomplaints, recommendations are certainly apprecithe Star as a mouthpiece Urban League before eventu- nity, receiving over one hundred and fifty In addition to offering the secretary of the Omaha the “Unsung Heroine director of the National compliment us. Your comments community in Omaha, nity service awards, including the NAACP, one of ally becoming the executive for the African-American in behalf of the community by editorials. the community to realize ated. The staff is working Award” for service awarded Urban League, contributed Gilberts also encouraged a better and more enlighten honored power 16,000 Africanboycotts to call attention only thirty-five people in the country to be and trying to always have The paper supported the positive effect the buying was small, and is an outstanding cater often time of her death. She paper. Our staff is very if they would carefully she and her staff were with this award by the to discrimination, and Americans could have working to satisfy you.

Lyndon B. Johnson as a businesses that employed team and they are always also appointed by President base and I wish to their purchases only to support well. investigate to religious community large Germany a East treated the We have goodwill ambassador to African-Americans and for the support of the churches following the conissue of the paper, Edward express sincere thanks, alleged human rights violations worked to improve Specifically, in the second clergy leaders.

She also members of the North Omaha in the community and the our struction of the Berlin Gilbert pointed out that least, I want to thank carriers and her office an ice cream shop Last but certainly not the lives of the newspaper black community were patronizing which would be there would not be did not have Ice Cream, advertisers. Without advertising, If she learned that someone workers.

Advertisements of at 24th and Lake, Reed’s bags over them published. buy hiring practices she would an Omaha Star Newspaper enough food at home, targeted for their discriminatory an the printing of the publicalarded The newspaper carriPorres Club. Gilbert spent and retail sales pay for groceries to supply their a decade later by the De advertisers have stuck with Christmas or Easter party shop and counted at least tions. Many of our older us. ers often received a special hour outside the ice cream Newer ones have joined work, when they might approving of their us throughout the years. adverin gratitude for their hard one hundred African-Americans that they don’t have to were given all year. their purchasing power.

Others have the feeling them receive the only gifts they hiring practices through Americans we will give in 1989, the Omaha Star divorced in 1943, and tise because as African At the time of her death Mildred and Edward Gilbert in Star readers look at the a circulation of 30,685 her maiden name, Brown. our business anyway. Omaha and had a staff of twenty, and Mildred resumed using for those who support us Mildred Brown wrote, Omaha Star, the longest advertising in the paper thirty-nine states. In 1969, As the publisher of the from those advertisers. persist? The answer newspaper run by a woman, we encourage them to purchase or think our readers “Why then do Negro publishers of his press, all of operating black-owned refuse deprived neighborhood news and For those advertisers, who is clear. If the Negro is Mildred Brown provided to market to, we encourage through the years since than fifty years. The paper are not important enough the tortuous gains achieved commentary for more shop to ask those merchants lost, and tomorrow’s Negro by calling attention to our readers when they his emancipation will be served an important function of the powerful forces, they don’t? If they continue people in the black commuthat do not advertise Why youth will be at the mercy our the accomplishments of man the ramparts of bigthe Omaha Star, I urge values. The newspaper North and South that still to refuse to advertise in $$ nity and emphasizing positive Brown got their products. Remember discrimination.” Mildred who received awards, or and buying stop to individuals prejudice otry, readers recognized compelled to do so. From had previously been closed persisted because she felt speak. new jobs in industries that civic she had established readers, supporters, merIt announced acts of the first edition of her newspaper, Thanks again to my staff, to African-Americans. good writers and all others They highlighted one She guided the newspa- a challenge to herself and her staff, “that no chants advertisers, contributing labeled “troublemakers.” pride and community charity. not of the continued existence eras of the Civil Rights cause shall lack a champion and that evil shall week in order to continue through the tumultuous who lend support to making neighborhood family per On the occasion per Brown and her staff were help is greatly apprecito the demonstrations Your Mildred community. of segregation possible. from sense Star a unopposed.” go in to foster the Omaha for Ms. Brown again Movement, and 1960s, to the racial unrest of the late of their community, Brown bright and continued future of the 1950s of the Star’s ninth anniversary, ated. I look forward to a the certainly champions outspoken voice in the wildercommunity, congratulated The Omaha Star reported particular. She was an 1960s and early 1970s. pledged her support to the not the Star in the Omaha community.. of its businesses and that occurred both locally ness that the tortuous gains of their emancipation triumphs and the tragedies North Omaha on the growth end. up this advice for her Mildred Brown was not are lost, and she worked tirelessly toward that and throughout the nation. fast development, and offered get any further a interested in letting discrimination neighbors. wishes to urge that you The Star on its anniversary

Women of Color in Leadership

2010 Awards

and Engage, Business Success “Power to Lead: Leverage, for the Perpetual stewardship. the theme Adopt & Deliver” was Winters advised the in Leadership steps to 3rd Annual Women of Color Awards group of eight Summit & legacy of Leadership at the Inclusion on their per25, 2010 jourLuncheon held on June Center. sonal diversity Holiday Inn Central Conventionluncheon neys; the Over 200 people attended 1. Know self first – was Marywhere the keynote speaker am I? What do I of CEO’s Who Who Quaites-Ferris, Dr. Marguerita Frances Winters, Author for? What makes (L-R) Tanya Cook, Vicki from the Heart stand Get It; Diversity Leadership Leadership Award Recipients: of the Winters me “me”?

Crowder and Soul and President Washington, Annette 2. Value self – What can become? enhance who I am and gifts?

Group.

– How are other ences Inclusion are my unique 5. Learn about others What can learn from differences? circle to Ms Winters spoke on Women’s is my best self? your different from me? How today. She gave Who 4 . individuals/groups 7. Include others – Expand in the business world 3. Acknowledge your Tawanna Black and Dr. Winters continued on page 2 to sustained sucmy are they the same? examples of eight steps How do differ- See Leadership to change – What are prejudices – In what 6. Value differences – contribute to Open yourself be my best self? cess: Motivation, Passion/commitment, do I exclude? How do I opportunities to grow? To Magnitude of the ways What are my blind spots?

In-depth Inquiry, and and transforming, intolerance? gap, Resolve, Learning

on July 9, 1938 History was made

MAHA TAR

Dedicated to the Service of the People Shall Lack a Champion that NO Good and that Evil Shall Cause Not Go Unopposed Nebraska’s Only

Vol. 79 - No.

Black Owned Newspape

r

16 Omaha, Nebraska

ate 50 Years of

“You can’t rain NNPA Newswire Contributor Stepping Saints, on our parade,” said one of lining up for the as the drill team gathered to the Salem The NAACP has pray before 21st named Derrick Members laughed biennial Native Omahans their board of directors, Johnson, Day soaked uniforms as they recalled performing parade. the organization’s vice chairman of The unanimous interim president. in raindecision was the Saints have over the years, 50 to be exact. committee of For 50 years the board of directorsmade by the executive stepping and thrilled crowds with their precision during the that Association’s stories and much always-on-beat rhythm section. high 108th annual convention Many in Baltimore. The the parade when laughter were shared the NAACP is the night before close to 100 largest team staffers rights organization and oldest civil gathered for their former members and drill celebration.

50th anniversary executive committeein the U.S. The reunion of the board is Saturday morning comprised of 14 during the parade, people. wore name tags the alumni members On May 19, with their dates their participation of service. They announced that the NAACP board consider ministry of Salemservice because they were Cornell William the contract of an outreach Baptist Church.

Brooks, the outgoing team co-founder president, would According Salem’s pastor, Phyllis Hicks, it was in August to drill Brooks’ contract not be renewed. the Rev. J.C. ended on June holding a parade Wade Sr., had 1966 that Brooks began 30. the idea of his Wanting to shineto celebrate Salem’s annual President in May tenure as NAACP Derrick Johnson youth a spotlight on of 2014.

(NAACP) of the church, all of the youth month.

“I am thrilled a quickly began drill team was formed. The Derrick Johnson to announce that my friend girls choreographing and colleague while the boys marching routines, CEO. I could has been appointed interim developed beats not think of a president and routines. to accompany more qualified better, more battle-tested Many of the the individual to guide young people or transition period,” found their the said Leon Russell, NAACP through this niche and after board of the NAACP. their the chairman of the first performance, “Derrick’s longtime encouraged him to take decisive service with the Association Rev. will allow action to deal Wade to make will also serve with daily challenges. as the primary the drill He spokesman for have every confidence team the NAACP. I in Derrick and permanent. new endeavor will support him every in this As the rain In a statement step of the way.” came is truly an honor released on July 22, Johnson down said and a privilege Saturday morning, president and to be named the that it CEO of an organization interim aboard Ollie decades. the that he’s served Trolley, for “There’s a lot Hicks of and several of waste any time work that needs to be done the and we won’t getting to it. We original members threats to our are facing unprecedented democracy and marveled at the we will not be sea sidelined while of blue created See NAACP by continued on t-shirts worn by the Carolina blue Although page 2 current and alumni illness members as Jeanpierre and keeps Hicks on the sideline, they filled the Jeffrey co-directors Synceree street. as they carry on the Riggs look to her for guidance legacy. and leadership

Omaha Section Salutes 2017 Award , NCNW, Recipients

NOT PICTURED: Aariona Hagler Youth in Excellence

Denise Lee Mary McLeod Bethune Legacy Award

Award

Community Picnic – Aug. 19 See In the Village for details

Beverly A. Rone Field of Education Award

Deep Roots – Ties

that Bind

Willa Midder Julia D. Anderson Visionary Award Deep Roots

Keynote Speaker Shawntal M. Smith, Esq. Human Resources and Talent Development Leader and Lawyer for Social Justice

Marching

Bryant-Fisher Family 100-Year Celebra tion

- 4th generation

By Terri L. Crawford,

Briana Cannon Bethune Concept Book Award

Lara Wasmoen Bethune Concept Book Award

Honorary Chair Teresa Coleman Hunter

Special Back School Issue to will be at news outlets August 25!

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Congratulat ions Omahans Club, Native & Empowermen OEDC t Network on a wonde rful Native Omahans Week!

Friday, August 11, 2017 NAACP Names 75 cents Johnson Interim Derrick President The Saints

By Lauren Victoria Celebr Burke

The Omaha Section - National Council Negro Women of Inc. recognizes individuals community for outstanding achievement. in the year individuals Each are recognized in medicine, education, for excellence involvement, embodimentleadership, community of the Mary McLeod Bethune Legacy and Awards will be youth in excellence.

McLeod Bethune presented at the annual Mary Award Luncheon at 11 a.m. at on Aug. 26 the DC Centre, 11830 Stonegate Dr. The community is invited to important event. attend this The keynote speaker Esq., Human Resources is Shawntal M. Smith, and Talent Development Leader for Omaha Precious Davis Home for Boys. also a social Field of Medicine Smith is justice attorney.

Award “Extraordinary The theme is Rising above Women: Breaking Barriers, Lives.” Omaha Challenges, Transforming Section, NCNW women of African advocates for descent as they families and communities. support their It fulfills its mission through research, community based advocacy and national and health, education, services and programs on Omaha Section, and economic empowerment.

NCNW is a 501c3 organization. non-profit Omaha Section Davis, Field of 2017 Award recipients: Precious Rone, Field of Medicine Award; Beverly A. Education Award; Julia D. Anderson Willa Visionary Award; Midder, Theola M. Cooper Cooper, Community Theola M. Community Supporter Award; Supporter Cannon, Bethune Briana Concept Book Award Wasmoen, Bethune Award; Lara Concept Book Denise Lee, Award; Mary McLeod Bethune Legacy Award; Aariona Hagler, Youth Award in Excellence For more information or to obtain contact Perlie tickets, Whitley at 402-320-0375. tickets on-line, For go 2017 Mary McLeodto Eventbrite.com and enter under Search Events Bethune Awards Luncheon or Category.

Please like them on Facebook: Section-NCNW, Omaha @OmahaNCNW Inc., follow them on Twitter: omahasectionncnwand visit their website: http:// .weebly.com/

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J.D.

“Family is not an important thing, How important it’s everything.” is always been, very family to us? The answer is, and has important. Indulge moment. After me for a brief the overwhelmed by Civil War, Union military officershistory ex-slaves who were were on the roads, for family members searching Agents of the Bureau from whom they had been separated.

Lands, commonly of Refugees, Freedmen, and Abandoned known as the were hired after Freedmen’s Bureau, the war to provide who and ex-slaves, relief to refugees received hundreds requesting assistance of letters from freedmen wrote to the Bureau in locating lost relatives. One ex-slave from Texas with in locating “my a request for assistance own dearest relatives” list of sisters, and included nieces, nephews, whom he had uncles, and in-lawsa long been from twenty-four years separated when he was sold in Virginia before. Others in local newspapers, took out advertisements lost family members offering rewards for the return of (Wilma A. Dunaway, American Family The Africanin England: Cambridge Slavery and Emancipation (Cambridge, University Press, Reconstruction, 20013), 257. 33 82.)

Foner, The African-American roots of the family Derived from our are spiritual.

African heritage, maintained by shared experiences the Black family has been bond and circumstances, and a common historical despite what would lead you mainstream to remained strong. believe, Black families triumphedmedia Our spiritual and orientation helped See Deep Roots create a continued on page 3

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Lunch & Learn – Aug. 29 See In the Village for details

Enjoy The Omaha Star Newspaper Digitally Now your top news stories and favorite columns are available online and on your mobile devices.

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6. Get grounded by placing your bare feet on the Earth or on the floor. Take a deep breath and notice of the beauty of Mother Nature by going outside or looking through a window or door.

7. Exercise. If you can’t go out, do some type of movement inside for 20-30 minutes at least 3/week.

8. Order some food, if you want to. Treating yourself here and there ain’t gonna hurt you.

9. Ask for support, if you need it. “Many hands make light the weight.”

10. Get some sunlight and or take some vitamin D. As we navigate winter, we need to add more of it to our lives.

11. See an online therapist. It’s really okay to pray and go to therapy.

12. Use a planner or calendar to keep track of your life. Even being home all the time can cause disorganization in the mind. Map it out.

13. Fast & pray. Let the body reset divinely.

14. Meditate. Listen to your higher self.

15. Be grateful daily. Start a gratitude jar or journal things you’re grateful for.

16. Thank your honorable ancestors who made a way for you to be here today. Know their history/your history. Your NIA. 17. Stay hydrated. Drink water often. Add a fruit or a veggie for alkalizing health benefits & flavor.

18. Celebrate your milestones, no matter how big or small they were. You made it!

19. Employ some weekly self care.

20. Grieve the loss of people, places and things in your life. Loss happened last year, and it’s important to honor the grieving process.

21. Dress up once a week. Feel yourself. Remember you still look good with your fine self.

22. Affirm yourself in the mirror.

23. Draw. Color. Create. Tap into your inner child.

Need help? Play with your children.

24. Play some music and sing your heart out.

25. Keep breathing deeply. Inhale 4 counts. Exhale 4 counts. A sacred reminder you’re still alive.

Just know, whatever you do, be kind and gentle with yourself, because the shift happened and is still happening as we step into 202. And honestly, it’s not going anywhere out here in these revolutionary streets.

Withlove,Felicia © 2021 self-love activist/educator/poet/creative/lover www. withlovefelicia.com

OMAHA STAR

THE

Subscribe to the Omaha Star Call 402-346-4041

At the very least, you’ve got haunting images of sticker-covered notebooks filled with your childhood day-to-day recitations dancing in your head. Or perhaps you were more of the lock-and-key-type, burying diaries you hoped your siblings would never find. Either way, you might have a love-hate relationship with keeping a journal.

Well, journaling is no longer oldfashioned, or just for folks of a certain older-and-wiser age. It’s something you need to do — now. Journaling does more than just help you record your memories or find self-expression. It’s good for your health.

Here are five good-for-you virtues of journaling: 1. Reduces Stress. An overabundance of stress can be damaging to your physical, mental, and emotional health. Journaling is an incredible stress management tool, a good-for-you habit that lessens impact of physical stressors on your health. In fact, a study showed that expressive writing (like journaling) for only 15 to 20 minutes a day three to five times over the course of a four-month period was enough to lower blood pressure and improve liver functionality. Plus, writing about stressful experiences can help you manage them in a healthy way. Try establishing journaling as a pre-bedtime meditation habit to help you unwind and de-stress.

2. Improves Immune Function. Expressive writing can strengthen your immunity and decrease your risk of illness. Expressive writing has been shown to improve liver and lung function and combat certain diseases; it has even been reported to help the wounded heal faster.

3. Keeps Memory Sharp. Journaling helps keep your brain in tip-top shape. Not only does it boost memory and comprehension, it also increases working memory capacity, which may reflect improved cognitive processing.

4. Boosts Mood. Want more sunshine in your life? Try journaling. A unique social and behavior outcome of journaling is this:

it can improve your mood and give you a greater sense of overall emotional wellbeing and happiness.

5. Strengthens Emotional Functions.

Related to mood is how journaling benefits overall emotional health: As journaling habits are developed, benefits become long-term, meaning that diarists become more in tune with their health by connecting with inner needs and desires.

Journaling evokes mindfulness and helps writers remain present while keeping perspective. It presents an opportunity for emotional catharsis and helps the brain regulate emotions. It provides a greater sense of confidence and self-identity.

Journaling can help in the management of personal adversity and change, and emphasize important patterns and growth in life. Research even shows that expressive writing can help individuals develop more structured, adaptive, and integrated schemes about themselves, others, and the world. What’s more, journaling unlocks and engages right-brained creativity, which gives you access to your full brainpower.

Truly, journaling fosters growth.

So, great. You get it: Journaling is good for you — physically, mentally, and emotionally. Well first, ditch the guilt of not being consistent or instantly motivated.

Simply start where you are. If you need to initially just write a single line, or detail the specifics of what you had for breakfast, do it. Don’t preoccupy yourself with managing perfect punctuation, grammar, or spelling.

Just write and don’t censor yourself. This is for you. Remember: You don’t have to be Shakespeare.

Go ahead, grab one of those four-for-adollar marble composition books or another fancier option and set aside a dedicated space and time for journaling. And for now, put aside the screens when journaling — writing by hand stimulates and trains the brain in a way digital communication doesn’t.

Our lesson? If you’re looking to better your health and well-being, keep a journal.

F.Y.I.

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.

Page Four THE OMAHA STAR

PRAISE, WORSHIP, DEVOTION, OBITUARIES & INSPIRATION

Embracing hope for the New Year

Billy Holland

I hope that everyone had an enjoyable holiday, but I must admit that it did not seem like a normal Christmas. Yes, we sent out cards and decorated the tree, but there was something strange about the atmosphere. The signs of the virus are everywhere, and I cannot help but think about how many families have been impacted by it. Some of you may have missed seeing your loved ones because it was not safe for them to travel. My wife and I know how you feel.

Others of you might have canceled your festivities altogether and there is nothing wrong with being safe and wise. For those of you who are regular readers, I just want to say how sorry I am for what you have gone through this past year.

When the virus came on the scene, it seemed like a science fiction movie or a crisis that was very far away.

As the months went by, it kept spreading until it was affecting people in our state and eventually in our own town. I’m sure by now that many of you have been tested, and some have struggled through the sickness and hopefully have recovered. In February and March, I was struck down with pneumonia and it really took a toll on me. I tested negative for covid but nearly ended up in the hospital as I was extremely sick for several weeks. We have close friends who are currently terribly ill and sadly some have recently passed away.

A genuinely nice man I worked with for many years passed away right before Thanksgiving. He had just retired last year. My heart breaks for those who would still be with us today if it had not been for this cruel enemy. For those of you who have suffered loss, may the Lord continue to give you His peace and comfort.

We are also seeing how the pandemic has negatively impacted the economy in many areas. I noticed in my fundraising for our annual Thanksgiving food drive for the needy, many small businesses which normally are happy to donate just did not have the extra funds this year. I completely understand. Some companies are even going out of business and just the other day one of the newspapers that has used my column for several years closed because of Covid. The Del Rio NewsHerald began operating in 1884. Let us keep praying for those who need a miracle as we continue pressing forward in God’s wisdom and trusting in His promises.

With such a perplexing year, we should have known the election was also not going to be normal. I will not get into all the opinions and speculations, but I will say that even if a percentage of the allegations are true, the government needs to investigate to make sure our elections are fair and honest in the future. It does not matter which party you support, let us continue to pray that deception will be exposed. I do not believe anyone would be pleased knowing that our elections are being tampered with. Jesus says in Luke 4:22, “For there is nothing hidden that will not be revealed, and nothing concealed that will not be brought to light.” To the followers of Christ, whoever is declared the president, we still have a mission to accomplish and must stay focused on God. As we say goodbye to one of the most bizarre years that I can remember, I want to thank all of you for making “Living on purpose” a regular part of your newspaper experience whether reading the hard copy or online. Publishers and editors have been very gracious to allow me the space to share my heart and I really appreciate the encouraging prayers, letters, and emails. I wish all of you an incredibly happy New Year and hopefully we can agree that surely it will be better than what we have just gone through. I’m looking forward to spring when the flowers begin to bloom, and to feel the warmth of the sun on my face. Personally, I believe a spiritual awakening is beginning, and that God is preparing to revive His people for His glory!

Prayer and repentance are always the spark that ignites powerful moves of God. Be encouraged today and ask Him to fill you with His love, hope, and excitement.

May the Lord continue to bless you and your family as we travel this amazing journey together.

Discover more about the Christian life at billyhollandministries.com

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THOMAS FUNERAL HOME & Cremation Services TRADITION • RESPECT • DIGNITY

A Tradition of Caring Since 1939

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

January 8, 2021

Tribute to Shirley Jordan

By Brenda J. Council I’ve been struggling to find the words to describe the depth of the loss I feel with the passing of my confidante, my advisor, my counselor, my advocate and, most importantly, my dear friend Shirley Jordan. I was so blessed to truly know Shirley. She was the epitome of a Renaissance Woman. She was a trailblazer in business and finance.

Shirley was the first African American, male or female, bank loan officer in Shirley Jordan Nebraska. She owned and operated 3 businesses simultaneously: Cleopatras, Backstreet and the Backstage. I can still see the smile on my Mother’s face as she grooved to BB King from a front table at Cleopatras.

I lived for Thursday nights to head to the Backstreet

where Fred Franklin spun the tunes and I led the “Backstreet Choir” in the singing of Oldies.

And, don’t come through there with a weak Bid Whist game! The young people who lived around the Backstreet were the beneficiaries of her generosity.

Shirley had an incredible eye for fashion and design. She designed the home I had planned to build in Miami Heights. I never built that home because she gave me her blessings to purchase the house that Shirley built. She had a hand in the construction of most of the housing in North and Omaha by New Community Development and OEDC. So you see, we have lost a true treasure. She will be greatly missed. I will take comfort in knowing that Shirley Jordan approached her transition as she did everything in her life - on her terms. Rest Well Sweet Queen.

Have a Good Day

By Velma J. Sanders Then God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. And God saw the light, that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness. God called the light “Day,” and the darkness He called “Night.” So, the evening and the morning were the first day.

He called the light, “Day,” and here we are, innumerable years later still calling it “Day.” Whether it is Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday or Sunday, God set day and days in motion and they cannot be reversed until He says, “Time shall be no more.” It is only then that time will bow its head, make its exit and give way to eternity; until then, “day” it is.

We are glad that God said that the day and the light was good. And on that basis, we often and regularly say, “Good morning; Good afternoon; Have a good day; and, Good night.” The common thread in each of these short succinct phrases is the word “good.” It is God who first evaluated and graded His creation as good; and we have,

consciously or subconsciously, been doing it ever since.

I like the expression “Have a good day!” I use it often and I hear it often. We all realize that some days are full of sorrow, questions and difficulties. However, in spite of it all, even on unpleasant days, we can give thanks and rest in the assurance that God is in control. And He, in His infinite wisdom and great love is ordering all things to work together for good to those who love Him, to those who are called according to His purpose.

No one, but God, has the power to create a day; nor the wisdom, knowledge and understanding to order and manage everything that goes into a day. And then He, Almighty God, will cause all things to ultimately give Him the glory that is due unto His Name. “Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past finding out!”

God has reserved certain things to Himself and Him alone. The measure of days is one of them. This new year, 2021, is comprised of 365 days. May God’s goodness and mercy follow you through each one of them. “This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” Have a good day!

Vsanders875@centurylink.net

Journaling a new habit

Writing and journaling in particular is one of the best ways to organize your thoughts and record your memories.

It is no secret that scribbling down your experiences, excitements, frustrations, thoughts and feelings can create a solid memory, but did you know that journaling also has health benefits?

1. Journaling Lowers Anxiety Writing (or typing) out your negative and positive experiences has a positive effect on your immune system!

Stay healthy by writing? Yes, by taking the time to say everything you need to say on paper, with no interruptions, is a proven way to lower anxiety and increase peace of mind.

2. Journaling Can Be Your Meditation Having a journal handy is the fastest way to get satisfaction by getting it all out, or venting. Meditation is performed to focus on clearing your mind and relaxing.

Journaling can help do the same by putting your life’s stressors on the paper and allowing you to leave your mind free.

3. Journaling Helps You To Let Go By taking the time to journal you are almost confiding in a best friend. One that will never judge, never question,

and never interrupt you. Journaling can lead you down a quick path to happiness by allowing you to say what you want to say, and talk yourself into a happy state by simply going through everything and letting it go.

The best part about journaling is that what you write down will not get up and walk away. Once you write it down you can let it go and know that it will always be there if you need it.

4. Journaling Fosters Personal Growth It is also good to know, that journaling is a great way to teach yourself things you may have never known about yourself. I do not know how many times I have sat down with pen and paper to write down my frustrations about an issue and end up solving my problem once I am all done.

Journaling is not only a satisfying and enjoyable hobby, but also an important tool to help you grow in all aspects of your life.

Not everyone enjoys writing, obviously. Many people hate to write, but journaling helps you to remember little things that make you smile by reinforcing your memory of the day.

It helps you to review and reflect on situations thoroughly, and slows you down to avoid jumping to conclusions. And finally, it helps you to become a happier and healthier person; in touch with your inner peace.

Please Type All Materials for Publication

PRAISE & WORSHIP DIRECTORY

January 8, 2021

THE OMAHA STAR

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

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

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”

Page Five

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. Kent H. Little, 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. Michael Chamberlain

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. Vitalis Anyanike

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

&

HOLY NAME CATHOLIC CHURCH

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

2901 Fontenelle Blvd. 68104 Ph: 402-451-6622 • Fax 402-457-6901 Mass Schedule: Mon. - Fri. 8:30 a.m., Sat. 8:30 a.m. & 5:00 p.m.

Sun. 8:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m. & Noon (Spanish) Reconciliation: Sat. 4:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. or by appointment Pastor: Rev. Vitalis Anyanike

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

COMMENTARY/BUSINESS BITES January 8, 2021 North End Teleservices, LLC From the Pen of a

Page Six THE OMAHA STAR

On the heels of its Inc. 5000 debut as #677 on the list Fastest Growing privately held companies in America, North End Teleservices, LLC, announced two executive roles.

In his new role, Phillips will further develop and implement the multifunctional business strategy and oversee all facets of daily operations.

Phillips is a graduate of Metropolitan Community College. Prior to joining North End Teleservices, he worked as an entertainment reporter and in the food service industry, two areas of interest he maintains in his spare time.

A native of Sioux City, Iowa, Sudo graduated from Western Iowa Tech Community College.

Prior to joining North End Teleservices, she worked in the construction and finance industries.

As a part of the growth and expansion of the company which now has 400 employees, North End Teleservices has also added Marketing and Communication Specialist and Workforce Manager roles.

Chris Phillips Chris Phillips, has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer of the company. Phillips has been with the organization since it opened in September of 2015, at 24th and Hamilton Streets helping to build the company from the ground up.

He has served in several key Client Management, Workforce and Operational leadership roles including project management for the early build out of the facility.

“Chris has helped shape the culture and direction of the company and has been a part of helping our business grow from a blank sheet of paper from the ground up to what it is today. His passion for our mission, his broad knowledge of the business along with the trusted client relationships he has developed has contributed greatly to our success.” said Carmen Tapio, Chief Executive Officer of North End Teleservices. “Chris has directed the strategic improvement of our operational processes, sold into and onboarded multiple new lines of business and enhanced our overall performance. All while serving as a mentor and role model for many of our employees”

Mindy Sudo Mindy Sudo joined the team in March of 2020 as Financial Controller, subsequentially being promoted in November to Chief Financial Officer.

Mindy’s financial management background spans many years including 10 years with Credit Information Systems with experience ranging from Appraisal Management Compliance to Vice President. In her new role her responsibilities include strategic financial management, risk management and compliance.

“Mindy proved to be an asset to our organization and became part of the family day one. We have benefited tremendously from her vast experience in finance, credit and business banking,” said Tapio. “In a short time, Mindy has proven her leadership and commitment to not only the success of the organization but also her commitment to helping us in creating jobs and changing lives.”

Ashley Rae Turner

Stephane Tra Ashley Rae Turner joined as its new Marketing and Communications Specialist, and Stephane Tra as Workforce Manager.

Turner will manage internal and external communications and public relations initiatives, including the company’s rebrand and website relaunch as part of the company 5-year anniversary campaign. “Her previous experience with Borsheims,

Political Strategist

By Ja Keen Fox

2021 begins for North Omaha with an unfortunate bang. A drive by shooting two blocks from where I sit to write this column on 24th St. As I send this in I can only hope and pray that 21-yearold Desmond Edmonds and 22-year-old Jumeez Sherman recover and live the long lives all Black people deserve. I also send my prayers to the perpetrators of this crime, as they must be in an incredibly dark place to cause this type of harm to another human being. Understanding the cyclical nature of gun violence, we must all commit to breaking that cycle using all the tools and talents that reside within this beautiful Black community.

One of what could be considered the most impactful tools to mitigate this family disrupting trend began Wednesday January 6th in Lincoln. The Nebraska Unicameral also known as the legislature. For years, Nebraska has touted a deep sense of pride in our unique body of government. The only nonpartisan state legislature in the country, Nebraska’s unicameral is well positioned to demonstrate the values of civility, nonpartisanship, and representative politics that reflect the calls for change heard throughout our neighborhood, city, state, and country. Values that would serve our most vulnerable communities, and the issues communities like ours deem important, well.

The dream of the unicameral, as it was intended, has yet to be fulfilled though, as rumors of infighting in both parties have dominated insider conversation in the weeks leading up to session. This was confirmed by a disappointing CD2 caucus meeting, held to place hopeful senators into leadership positions on the Executive Board and Committee on Committees, resulting in no Black representation in either of those important governing bodies. Made more disappointing by the fact that North Omaha icon Ernie Chambers, who left the legislature last session due to term limits after four decades, has always held a seat on the Executive Board to represent the interests of the Black community.

Picking up the important work of Ernie Chambers will be freshman senator Terrell McKinney, who won the seat in a resounding victory against opponent Fred Conley, and senator Justin Wayne, known in the legislature for his fierce independence, ability to work across the aisle to pass meaningful legislation, and sharp legal mind. The leadership of Justin Wayne was on full display in 2020 when he single-handedly, through his interpretation of the law, encouraged cities that they had the legal right to implement mask mandates, even as Governor Ricketts discouraged the action in what many called intimidating tactics.

As our elected officials strive to do their important work, I feel obligated to contribute what I can to the effort of educating and empowering North Omaha to fully grasp its social and political power.

Issues that feel so personal to those of us with lived experience can be seen through the political, and in doing so, allow us to focus on lifesaving outcomes. The personal IS political, and now, so are you.

North End continued on page 7

Forge a new future.

Metropolitan Community College scholarships help you take that first step.

The Johnny Rodgers Career and Technical Education Scholarship is available to all students entering career and technical programs at MCC. Other requirements include: Financial need Enrollment in a career or technical education program at MCC A cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher Preference for students in Omaha Public Schools Recipients can use the scholarship for tuition, fees and books. Scholarships are generally offered during the spring and fall quarters.

To learn more and apply for MCC scholarships, visit mccneb.edu/scholarships or call 531-MCC-0024.

Now Hiring Apply Today!

Habitat for Humanity of Omaha is a grassroots organization that builds and improves houses, forges community partnerships and breaks down barriers. Our vision is a world where everyone has a decent place to live.

We’re looking for people who...

• Have a passion for helping others • Enjoy building genuine connections • Want to be part of a mission-focused environment

See our current openings and apply at habitatomaha.org/about-us/careers.

Metropolitan Community College affirms a policy of equal education, employment opportunities and nondiscrimination in providing services to the public. To read our full policy statement, visit mccneb.edu/nondiscrimination.

Habitat for Humanity of Omaha is an equal opportunity employer and seeks to employ and assign the best qualified people for all of our positions. We are committed to inclusion across race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

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January 8, 2021

BUSINESS BITES/CLASSIFIEDS helped to elevate our data analytics capabilities which is one of the areas in which we can really bring additional value to our clients.�

About North End Teleservices, LLC North End Teleservices, LLC (NET) is an omnichannel global provider of outsourced contact center services to government and commercial sectors.

The company is committed to creating jobs and changing lives with a current annual community economic impact of $41 million. NET is a certified womanowned, minority-owned, HubZone business that serves as an extension of their clients’ brands and their service delivery model. Working with small and large B2B, B2C and government agencies, NET customizes contact center operations to meet every client’s specific needs.

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Page Seven

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North End continued from page 6

Election Systems and Software and her community connections will serve her well in this role,� said Tapio. Tra will lead the expanding Workforce Management and IT functions.

A graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Purdue’s Lamb School of Communications, Turner has six plus years of experience leading digital and content marketing efforts across various industries. She is a member of numerous local boards focused on opportunity, equity and inclusion for Omaha’s young professionals.

Tra is a graduate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha where he earned his MBA. “He is an innovative workforce manager with over eight years of experience in data administration, operations, data analytics and project management�, said Tapio. Stephan has

THE OMAHA STAR

To advertise your business, please contact The Omaha Star.

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Arborist

Attorney Timothy Ashford

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Page Eight THE OMAHA STAR

YOUTH/EDUCATION NEWS

Mandela Scholars Continue to Thrive Despite COVID-19

Across the globe, COVID-19 has disrupted education. Yet, the Mandela team has faced every challenge head on, prioritizing scholar success. When the virus first began shutting down the country in March, Mandela closed its doors.

However, almost immediately, teachers were sending packets home, distributing computers, and teaching remotely. The school also stuck to its year-round schedule and continued instruction throughout the summer. Since starting the 2020- 2021 school year, the school has toggled back and forth between face to face and remote learning.

The efforts to continue instruction have not been for nothing. Test data from the Measure of Academic Progress (MAP), a computerized assessment that measures a child’s academic growth from year to year, reveals Mandela scholars are right where they are expected to be for the beginning of the school year, and on average, there was little loss in learning.

Genevive Core, principal, states, “We can clearly see the results of our hard work and determination.”

Mandela educators remain committed their mission: to maximize the success of all their scholars and bridge learning and achievement gaps. Scholars will engage in distance learning for two weeks beginning Tuesday, January 5, 2021 following their winter break and resume in-person learning on Tuesday, January 19, 2021.

January 8, 2021

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Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s isn’t easy.

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Thriving at Jesuit Academy

Dr. LeDonna Griffin There is nothing that can stop our young men at Jesuit Academy from learning and applying their skills they are learning. Mr. Tedder, fifth grade teacher at Jesuit led his students through the necessary components to capture the reader when writing a persuasive essay. One of our fifth graders did a little research and applied his writing skills with a goal of persuading the CEO of the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo. Please read his persuasive writing piece below.

Jesuit Academy 2311 N. 22nd St. Omaha, NE 68110 (402) 346-4464 December 8, 2020 Mr. Dennis Pate Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium 3701 S. 10 St. Omaha, NE 68107 Dear Mr. Pate, My class would like to go on a virtual tour or field trip at your zoo. Quarantine has taken a toll on us kids. It would be very kind of you to let us kids take a break out Lawrence Butler of school and take a gander at some of the most amazing animals in the world. We would really appreciate the opportunity.

Of course us 5th graders would keep mute until appropriate and be well behaved. We would also make sure

to show respect to the animals. Our class will also make sure to be kind and respectful to whoever is giving the tour.

If you are seeing this, please free us from this quarantine boredom.

Quarantine has hit hard on everyone, especially kids! Did you know that 7.1 percent of kids have anxiety during these trying times. I know I’m saying this alot, but we would really enjoy it. Zoos give kids the exciting experience of adventure and fun which is good for development.

Sincerely, Lawrence Butler 5th Grade Student

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Lawrence definitely did an amazing job using his writing skills and the art of persuasion. Mr. Tedder noticed how great of a job that Lawrence did and forwarded the communication to Mr. Pate.

Mr. Pate returned an email to Lawrence stating that he appreciated the communication and that he will need to hear directly NAVIGATING HEALTH INSURANCE from Lawrence’s teacher IS HARD ENOUGH WITHOUT to get the virtual field trip scheduled.

Lawrence’s A PANDEMIC. classroom of peers are highly excited about this and thankful for learning how to write a persuasive writing piece. The learning experience that your student has at Jesuit Academy encourages student accountability and advocacy of their individual learning.

LET US HELP.

(402) 457-1207