Vol.83, Number 20, Omaha, Nebraska, October 1, 2021 by The Omaha Star

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Nebraska’s Only Black Owned Newspaper Vol. 83 - No. 20 Omaha, Nebraska

Friday, October 1, 2021

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The “medium is the message” at the 2021 Met Gala

Little Judah is sleep. He is tired from the mean words people say about him. Sleeping makes him forget. Then one day, Judah wakes up and learns that he is a smart, kind, and lovable prince with a bright future ahead. Having worked in various positions in education for the past 10 years, I came to believe that change comes when you touch the hearts and minds of the next generation, or the children. So many of the negatives that plague our community result from children (and adults) not having a firm identity, which comes from the lack of strong, family support or a loving community that values the lives of our young people. Judah Wakes Up addresses the need for children to be affirmed and acknowledged in relation to the complex world in which we live. When children feel that they have a special purpose and a place in this world, they view life through a different lens. Instead of demonstrating negative behaviors, they become active contributors to their families, schools, communities and beyond.

Publisher’s Pen By Terri D. Sanders

COVID-19 and all the cousins are again taking center stage in our lives. Have you had your vaccination? What about the booster? Have the children had a vaccination? Are you wearing your mask? Events have again been cancelled. Winter is coming and we will be inside in close quarters. If you are vaccinated, then you will not have to stand alone, IJS. Have you sent your copy needs to Dotcom Studios the Omaha Star Print Center? (printing@ omahastarinc.com). Mid October, be on the lookout for notecards and Holiday cards by the Omaha Star. We will also have themed calendars for sale. The Omaha Star is making news in economic development in our community. Have you published a book? We would love to have you featured in the paper. Omaha has native authors that we should know about. Send us a photo of your book cover and a 500 word or less article to publisher@omahastarinc.com. In 2022 we will be publishing weekly, so every Friday you will receive an Omaha Star full of community news. Get your subscription TODAY at 2021 prices ($40), because in 2022 our subscriptions will be $50.00. Call our offices at 402-346-4041 and place your subscription order. Our community is on the move. New businesses are popping up everywhere. Businesses are under development and buildings are being renovated. The block is coming back. I remember when North 24th Street was a street busy with shops, stores, restaurants and things to do. Neighborhood revitalization is at work. Do you have an idea for a business? If you start a business you are a founder. There are resources available to assist you with bringing your ideas to the marketplace. Everyone is not a corporate mogul, some are self-made moguls, why not you? See you on October 15th…

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By Amari Leigh Fashion and activism joined forces on September 13th at the 2021 Met Gala, highlighting how social commentary never goes out of style. This exclusive fundraiser event, which was canceled last year due to the coronavirus pandemic, is universally re-garded as one of the most important nights in the fashion industry, attracting A-list celebrities and members of the upper echelon who masquerade in theme. This year, the elite crowd on Fifth Avenue dressed in honor of “American Independence.” And while the red carpet saw the usual suspects, dressed in various nods to American designers, excessive denim, and an inordinate amount of red, white and blue, there were a few guests who pushed fashion boundaries. Gabrielle Union, actress, best-selling author and Omaha native, wore a custom white Iris Van Herpen gown that spoke to the importance of “what’s needed in America, what’s needed in fashion.” In an interview with W magazine about her change-themed gown, Union shared, “Some see different colors, some see different shapes, but it changes and that’s what it’s supposed to be […] You should be able to have an opinion on it that doesn’t match anyone else’s because it’s about the evolution of what’s happening in America.” Union explained to W magazine that she was initially shocked when Van Herpen reached out and invited her to collaborate last April after the gala was publicly announced as “Brown girls” are often thought of “towards the end.” What followed? An optical illusion dress, constructed of over 10,000 cut spheres layered on top of one another on a spectrum of “translucent white liquid fabric” and “fine silver reflective outline,” which took over 1,400 hours to complete. Union was not the only attendee of color to receive attention online. Pop superstar and former co-chair of the event, Rihanna, highlighted an important social justice issue in a black oversized Balenciaga coat and hat from Stephen Jones Millinery. Rihanna shared with Essence, “…I wanted a look that seemed very powerful, yet feminine, yet like a Black hoodie, which is usually the thing that we are incriminated by as Black people.” Her bold look was also complimented by diamonds featured in Sotheby’s Black and Brilliant exhibit, which promoted Black jewelry de-signers. Also in attendance —United States Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, whose attire drew sharp criticism across social media platforms and news outlets, proving that fashion can be just as, if not more so, polarizing than politics. Ocasio-Cortez’s white jacket dress, etched with the slogan “Tax the Rich” in red embroidery, was custom made for the event by Aurora James, the buzzworthy founder behind the trendy brand Brother Vellies. At this year’s event, James was one of the only Black female designers showcased on the carpet and has openly discussed the egregious issue of representation in the industry. Like Ocasio-Cortez, James is no stranger to making her opinions known. The Canada native recently made waves outside of fashion for her 15 Percent Pledge—one of the fastest growing nonprofits in the country. As James ex-plained in a recent interview with CNN, “economic equality and economic justice were sort of top of mind” for both women. In the pop culture landscape, the Met Gala stands as a symbol of opulence and elitism, with designers and corporate sponsors paying tens of thousands of dollars for an individual ticket and hundreds of thousands of dollars for a table. While many online, both conservatives and progressives, found hypocrisy in a democratic socialist rubbing elbows with the world’s rich and famous, Ocasio-Cortez maintained on her Instagram that “the medium is the message.” For the born and bred New Yorker-turned-politician, the Met has long been a symbolic institution that “belongs to the people” and the hypervisibility of the gala served as a platform for her message about “growing that table and bringing more people into that conversation.”

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October 15, 2021 Information submission October 8, 2021

LOCAL NEWS October 1, 2021 THE OMAHA STAR, INC. Metro Transit sees Ridership Growth Across THE VOICE OF THE BLACK COMMUNITY Network, Record-Breaking Ridership on ORBT

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Terri D. Sanders - publisher@omahastarinc.com Business Hours: Monday – Thursday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Member of the National Newspaper Publishers Association Mildred D. Brown: Founder, July 9, 1938 Dr. Marguerita L. Washington: Publisher, 1989 - 2016 Phyllis Hicks: Publisher/Managing Editor, 2016 - 2019 Terri D. Sanders, Publisher Beryl Barnes: Administrator Barbara Reeves: Retail Distributor THE OMAHA STAR believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonism when it accords every man, regardless of race, color or creed, his human and legal rights. Hating no man, fearing no man in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as one is held back.

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Metro Transit transported more passengers in August than it has in a single month since March of 2020, with a record-breaking average of 10,500 trips per week on its rapid transit line, ORBT. “Use of ORBT has continued to grow since we launched last November,” said Metro’s CEO, Lauren Cencic. “In fact, this is the most transit activity we have seen on Dodge Street in at least two decades. This response to ORBT, especially during a global pandemic, demonstrates that our community is embracing high-quality transit.” Recent analyses show ORBT outperforming Route 2 when comparing ridership from November 2019 through August 2020 to November 2020 through August 2021. Another analysis compared current activity on ORBT to activity on Route 2 in 2017, providing a pre-pandemic comparison of Dodge Street activity. The analysis showed significant growth in areas along the route, including nearly twice as many riders at the Westroads Transit Center, four times as many riders using stops near 84th & Dodge, 15% more riders on Saturdays, and 20% more riders on Sundays. ORBT FARES Rides on ORBT are free until Friday, October 1, when Metro will start utilizing its new Umo (pronounced “you-mo”) contactless fare payment option. Umo was introduced to the public for use on bus and MOBY trips on Monday, September 20th. “Rides on ORBT are currently free, which has played a role in its success,” Cencic said. “That was by design – we wanted to show riders what this service can do. ORBT has provided a great lifeline for our community and nearly fifty thousand trips in August. That represents a serious reduction in congestion on Dodge Street.” Metro anticipates some fluctuation in ridership with the

(Omaha, Neb.) - Dust off your favorite cosplay costume and make plans to attend AfroCon 2021 - a virtual celebration of nerd culture and Black culture. The two-day event, which will be held October 9 and 10, will feature more than 20 visionary speakers, 25 vendors and seven workshops. “AfroCon is an opportunity to support an ethnically diverse range of independent artists and businesses, with an emphasis on organizations led by people of color,” said Lacey Lamar, New York Times bestselling author and Omaha native. “I support AfroCon and the House of Afros, Capes and Curls because it’s one of the few safe spaces I find where I can really express all things Blerd related. It truly is a community where people of color can be themselves and feel welcome to all areas of geek culture. While we’ll be attending from our homes again this year, that won’t stop people from dressing up and having fun.” The event is open to people of all ages and offers special morning sessions for youths and teens. The year’s theme is Joy and Magic, with organizers encouraging participants to do what they can to find joy and recognize the magic around them. Scheduled events include: • A discussion about mental health in the Black community and art therapy with the Creative Counseling Studio

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I’m a 76-year-old White woman, so I was gonna write a nice little invitation to DIALOGUES on RACISM—but then I recalled hearing Black people say, “Keep it real,” or “I’m sick of talking to White folks,” or “Just get to know Black people. Invite them to the table.” From 2009 through 2011, I did that through 5 series of Black/White Dialogues. They broke down negative stereotypes on both sides, and taught about racism past and present. Now we want to DO something to STOP systemic racism in Omaha. Why talk with White folks about racism? Because many White people truly care about “people of color.” We’ve read books on racism, marched to protest, confronted our own personal biases and privilege, and taken courses about how to be an ally, because we see police brutality and recognize how many systems still oppress and exclude Blacks. I became an advocate for Black people in 1968—but I am not rich or powerful, so I can’t make corporations hire Black people, or make OPD change policing policies. When Blacks and Whites band together, we can make systems change. DIALOGUES on RACISM are on Zoom from 7 to 8 p.m. Oct. 14 - Racism in Churches - Rev. Ed Kelly, Jr., a former Pentecostal preacher; Oct. 21 - Racial Disparities in Health Care - Dr. LaShaune Johnson, Associate Professor of Public Health at Creighton, and Assistant Director of Creighton U. at Highlander Center; Oct. 28 - Critical Race Theory - Dr. Franklin Thompson, Director of Human Rights and Relations for the City of Omaha, and professor at UNO. For details go to Facebook and type in Dialogues on Racism. To register copy and paste: Dialogues on Racism: Dialogues on Racism (signupgenius.com)

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• Meetups for fans of tabletop games, Anime, gaming, Star Wars, Marvel and DC Comics, Star Trek, and more • A conversation with the award-winning founders the African Board Game Convention in Nigeria • A panel discussion with Black women in the gaming industry • Music by Brooklyn-based electronic artist, Conrad Clifton AfroCon 2021 is sponsored by Omaha’s House of Afros, Capes and Curls, a nonprofit organization with the goal of creating programs that build a sense of belonging and community, giving people a place to gather and discuss pertinent, sensitive issues using games, science fiction, fantasy games and comics as a catalyst for conversation. “At this time, it is ever more important to create space for people,” said Jade Rogers, founder and chief innovation officer of The House of Afros, Capes and Curls. “Though online again this year, we are excited to continue finding new ways to connect our community and create joy and magic. As most of our group’s programs are free and open to the community, we want AfroCon to be the annual fundraiser that generates sustainability for programs and events that are yet to come.” For more information about AfroCon 2021 or to purchase tickets, visit the House of Afros, Capes and Curls Facebook page.

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OVERALL RIDERSHIP & COVID This August, Metro saw the highest ridership across all services since March 2020 as travel gets closer to prepandemic levels. Current system-wide ridership is about 10% lower than March of 2020, gradually recovering from the sharp decline in travel that has persisted through the pandemic. Weekdays remain about 14% lower than March of 2020, but usage on weekends has grown through the pandemic, recording an 11% increase in riders on Saturdays and a 12% increase on Sundays, largely due to ORBT ridership. These numbers also indicate a substantial shift in local travel patterns and mark a trend that could continue into the future. With many employers continuing to offer fullor part-time remote working arrangements, Metro has seen a decreased demand for traditional rush-hour services and increased usage during non-peak times throughout the week. Metro continues to monitor these changes in travel and identify ways to adapt the transit network to best meet the needs of our community.

AfroCon 2021 Celebrates Nerd Culture and Black Culture

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October 1, 2021

LOCAL NEWS

Champions on Parade

The Champions of Change Luncheon, in recognition of 20 Years of service by North Omaha Area Health (NOAH) Free Clinic, honored the legacy of community members who have made contributions to public health. Hosted at the Scott Conference Center, the luncheon’s attendees including service based organizations, prominent health institutions, and community members, gathered for the late summer afternoon. The program was hosted by Waverle Monroe, news anchor of KETV Newswatch 7. The keynote, Douglas County Commissioner Chris Rodgers,

recognized NOAH’s impact and identified climate change as a rising factor in public health. NOAH employees and board members, spread about the room, received recognition for their service. An awards ceremony closed out the program. Awardees were: Community Advocacy Award - Judith Hill, Community Health Legacy Award - Dr. Donna Polk, Community Youth All-Star Award - Justyce Hatten, Community Trailblazer Award - Dr. Andrea Jones, and Champion of Change Award - Chris Rodgers.

L to R: Carolyn C.T. Williamson, Janis Berry, and Latina Rencher, Committee Chairs and Lead Organizers.

Senior Master Sergeant Latosha Brown has 23 years of service in the United States Air Force Omaha should be proud to know this as she was a graduate of Northwest High School, attended Lewis & Clark Middle School and Druid Hill Elementary School. She attended King Solomon Missionary Baptist Church and Greater New Hope Baptist Church. Latosha was active in Sunday School and other activities through church and community. Also, she was crowned Jr Queen of the annual Gospel Music Workshop. She spent two years at Graceland College in Iowa and Wayne State in Nebraska. She then decided (without mom’s knowledge) to enlist in the Air Force. We all thought, no way would they keep her because she was pretty frail, skinny, and afraid of everything, including moths. To our surprise, they let her stay. She came home after her advanced training to attend her sister’s (Terra) 21st birthday with rhythm, boobs, and curves. It was now Latosha Brown obvious she had made a good decision. While serving, she’s had several overseas tours including, Afghanistan, Korea, Kuwait, and Germany. She completed her bachelor’s and master’s degrees while serving in the military. She also started a family with Bishop (8) and Brooklyn (5). Patricia Brown, is her proud Mother.

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Women of Color in Leadership Conference and Legacy Awards The National Coalition of 100 Black Women Greater Omaha chapter is hosting their 11th annual Women of Color in Leadership Conference and Legacy Awards on October 2, 2021, virtually via ZOOM. This year’s theme is “Empowering Women for the Path Forward”. The conference will consist of a panel Roslyn Brock discussion on Leadership and Advocacy, a panel discussion, and an awards presentation following the keynote speaker. This year’s keynote is Past Board President Emeritus of the NAACP, Roslyn Brock, who is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and the Links Inc. As a part of the conference the organization also awards Scholarships and Community Awards in the areas of Health, Economic Empowerment, Education, Millennial Leader, and Public Policy who have had a significant impact on Black women and girls in the Omaha community. We are honored to announce this year’s award recipients: Scholarship Winners: Mental Health - Gerene Davis Public Policy - EiEatia Knave Education - Jayda Tiller and Debra Lucas Community Award Recipients Health and Wellness - Dr. Sheritta Strong Public Advocacy - Alisha Shelton Economic Empowerment - Alisha Davis Millennial Leader - Kiara Williams Education - Kathy J. Trotter

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

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

LOCAL NEWS October 1, 2021 Child Saving Institute Announces Jaymes Sime as New President & CEO

Page Four THE OMAHA STAR

CSI has announced Jaymes Sime as its next President & CEO. Sime has served as the Executive Director of the MICAH House in Council Bluffs for nearly six years. During his time as the organization’s leader, Sime has doubled its staff, grown its annual operating budget over 200%, completed a $3.7 Jaymes Simes million capital campaign and successfully launched several other key growth strategies. In addition, Sime spent three years serving children and families as the Community Outreach Coordinator and In-Home Family Services Consultant at Boys Town. Sime holds a master’s degree in Public Administration from South University and was awarded the Omaha Jaycees Ten Outstanding Young Omahans in 2017. “Jaymes has devoted himself to serving children and families. He is a community leader embracing innovation and creativity to do what’s best for children and families,” states CSI’s Board Chair, Mike Geppert. “We are excited for Jaymes to join the Child Saving Institute team and

look forward to this next chapter in CSI’s already amazing story.” “I’m grateful to have the opportunity to lead an organization with such rich history serving children and families in Omaha. It won’t be easy following the legacy that Peg Harriott has created, but she has built a tremendous leadership team and I can’t wait to work alongside them to continue responding to the cry of a child,” states Sime. During Ms. Harriott’s 13 years as President & CEO of CSI, the number of children and families served has increased from 1,500 to 2,500 annually, the number of staff has nearly doubled, and the annual budget grew from $5.8 to $10.2 million. During the same period, the number of children and youth who receive mental health services has more than tripled. In addition, CSI recently welcomed its new Chief Development Officer, Lori Bechtold. Bechtold is an experienced fundraiser, most recently serving as the Chief Development Officer at the Omaha Home for Boys for the last six years. She also has experience fundraising Lori Betchold

for health care organizations including One World and Charles Drew. Bechtold has earned a master’s degree in Public Administration and a Certificate in Fund Raising Management from the Lilly Family School of Fundraising - Indiana University. “I am confident CSI will continue to reach children and families in new and progressive ways under the new leadership of Mr. Sime because the agency is also fortunate to have a strong Board of Directors, a committed Guild, a dedicated leadership team and passionate staff who give their hearts to this work,” states Ms. Harriott. Sime will assume the role of President & CEO on October 4. Ms. Harriott will continue with the organization until October 15 assisting Sime’s on-boarding. The two will work closely together to ensure a smooth and successful leadership transition. About Child Saving Institute Child Saving Institute (CSI) is dedicated to the prevention, intervention and healing of child abuse, neglect and trauma. For 129 years, CSI has been “Responding to the cry of a child” and meeting the changing needs of metro area children. CSI served more than 2,300 children and families in 2020. To learn more about CSI and the programs and services offered, please visit www.childsaving.org or follow CSI on social media on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Wayne Hudson Announces Candidacy

I want to inform you that I have announced my candidacy for Douglas County Sheriff in 2022. I also want the public to hear directly from me as to why I’m running and present my qualifications to fulfill this role. I am running because I deeply care about this community and the law enforcement Wayne Hudson profession. As a lifelong resident of Douglas County, raised and educated in North Omaha, and as a law enforcement professional, I’m in a unique position to understand a lot of the issues between the community and law enforcement. As your next sheriff I will continue to bridge the gap between the community and local law enforcement. I will hold community dialog sessions throughout Douglas County so that ALL voices are heard. My professional resume is a reflection of the many years of dedication to my passion for law enforcement; it shows that I’m a constant student of this profession, and

a dedicated community servant. I strongly feel that with my military experience in the United States Air Force (Honorable Discharge in 1992), my formal education which includes a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice & a Master of Science in Public Administration, along with my overall body of work — progressive leadership and management positions, including my current role as the Chief Deputy Sheriff where I am responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) — have all uniquely prepared me for the challenges, duties and responsibilities that come with leading the DCSO. I’m deeply committed to community engagement/ policing and being a positive role model for our youth. Along with being an active mentor with the 100 Black Men of Omaha, I also volunteer hundreds of hours each year interacting with youth in our community. I have led or been a part of several community engagement and policing initiatives such as: Cuts & Conversation, Shop with a Cop, Teen Summit, Community & Law Enforcement Forums, Operation N.E.T.S., Student Celebration Day, and many others. Each of these is designed to break down barriers between local law enforcement agencies and the community. Although I don’t do it for the awards and accolades, I am humbled to share that I have been recognized

for my community work by being granted with the Douglas County Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Living the Dream award, the Urban League Leadership Award in Government, and the 2021 Inductee to the Northwest High School Hall of Fame. In today’s ever-changing climate, communities need law enforcement personnel that can work with other leaders to safeguard citizens and present a positive image to the public. Law enforcement personnel must be guardians of the community as eloquently stated by the great philosopher Plato in his vision of a perfect society “In a Republic that honors the core of democracy — the greatest amount of power is given to those called Guardians. Only goals with the most impeccable character are chosen to bear the responsibility of protecting the democracy.” As your next Douglas County Sheriff, I will ensure that all employees of the DCSO are held to the “impeccable character” standard — including myself. There will never come a time you will ever question my honesty, my integrity, and professionalism. Most of all, you will never call into question my overall commitment for the citizens of Douglas County and the men and women of the DCSO.. To learn more, please visit my website at hudsonfordcsheriff.com and my Facebook page @ Hudson4DCsheriff.

You have questions about prevention and we want to empower you. Let’s have an honest conversation – now is the time to ask questions and have them answered by community members who understand your concerns. • Live Q&A with the Mocha Docs, your local health experts on COVID-19 vaccines, at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. • Nebraska Appleseed on hand for voter registration • Charles Drew Center navigators on-site to assist with Medicaid expansion • Event hosted by Omaha Economic Development Corporation (OEDC), activities will be held on the parking lot

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LOCAL / NATIONAL NEWS THE OMAHA STAR Page Five #EmmysSoWhite despite historic Omaha’s Terence Crawford record of nominations for Black artists Lands His Big Fight

October 1, 2021

By Amari Leigh Despite record levels of diversity in the list of nominations, no actors of color won in any of the 12 major categories at the 73rd Primetime Emmy Awards, sparking outrage across social media. On September 19th, #EmmysSoWhite was one of the leading hashtags trending on Twitter. In response to the 73rd Primetime Emmy Awards, which was held on Sunday night, users online lamented over the lack of representation in creatives taking home statuettes. As results rolled in for the much anticipated awards show, pundits and viewers expressed shock online at how de-spite high levels of diversity in each category, no actors of color were able to snag a victory in their respective categories. This is in sharp contrast to the previous year, where the TV Academy not only increased diversity within the organization, but also gifted awards to four actors of color in major categories — Zendaya (“Euphoria”), Regina King and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II (“Watchmen”) and Uzo Aduba Jamie McCarthy/Getty (“Mrs. America”). Instead, this year saw “The Crown,” “Ted Lasso,” “Mare of Easttown,” “Hacks” and “The Queen’s Gambit,” as the big winners of the night— shows with predominantly white casts. Much of the outrage online was due to historic highs in the number of performers of color nominated in major categories. The internet lamented over snubs to Bill Porter and MJ Rodriguez, who were fan favorites in the categories of Lead Actor and Lead Actress in a Drama Se-ries for their noteworthy performances in the FX series “Pose.” Rodriguez specifically garnered international attention last July when the nominations were released. Rodriguez, a Black trans woman from New Jersey, is the first trans performer to be nominated in a leading acting category. Ro-driguez stole the hearts of audiences for her portrayal of Blanca RodriguezEvangelista. Reflecting on her historic nomination to the New York Times last July, Rodriguez shared, “I would like trans wom-en, and specifically trans women of color — especially younger girls who are trans and of color — to take away that this is more than possible. If you’re persistent, if you keep your eyes on the prize, if you never let anyone tell you otherwise, you’ll keep living and knowing that your existence is worth it, and that you have a purpose on this earth.” Another notable snub, “Lovecraft Country” actor Michael K. Williams, who recently passed away last month. Williams was nominated in the Supporting Actor in a Drama category, but lost to Tobias Menzies from “The Crown.” One user on Twitter noted that this snub marks the second award show in a row where a “recently departed Black man lost to white Brit who wasn’t present,” referencing how a few months prior the late Chadwick Boseman was snubbed at the Academy Awards for his performance in Cliff Lipson/CBS via Getty Images “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.” Despite curtailed expectations, there were key wins last night for Black creatives that represent progress. RuPaul, the host and producer of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” is officially the Black creative with the most Emmy awards after he won Outstanding Competition show, marking his 11th Emmy win. Another big win from the night went to the multi-hyphenate Michaela Coel. The British performer, nominated for four Emmys, won in the Outstanding Writing in a Limited Series category for her HBO hit, “I May Destroy You.” Coel’s win marks the third time a Black writer has won in the category and the first time for a Black woman.

Terence ‘Bud’ Crawford has landed the biggest fight of his career, scheduled to occur this Fall. The Omaha-native is set to face Shawn ‘Showtime’ Porter in Las Vegas on November 20, after lengthy negotiations were finally brought to a close. The WBO welterweight title will be on the line; a belt Crawford has had around his waist since June 2018. The WBO stipulated Crawford must face Porter, but negotiations have not been easy. Our resident champion has been desperate to land a fight against a Terrence Crawford big name to test his 37-0 record, but he has previously been unable to do so. Manny Pacquiao, Errol Spence Jr., Keith Thurman and Danny Garcia all eluded Crawford, as did Porter, who is seen as the only serious challenger to his crown. “I’m very excited,” the 33-year-old told ESPN. “Now I can show my talent, and maybe I can show something for the general public, something that they’ve never seen before. Because I don’t believe that I’ve shown them my best yet.” The paying public will contribute to the $10m prize purse, split 60/40, and two-time welterweight champion Porter is equally enthusiastic about stepping into the ring with Crawford. “When you consider the experience in this fight and me having more experience than Terence Crawford, that is a fact,” he said. “When I say the fight between me and Terence Crawford is going to be great, it’s gonna be great. When I say I have what it takes to beat him, don’t sleep on that, believe that. I do!” Whilst Porter has been defeated three times in his career, Crawford remains without a blemish on his record. Indeed Kell Brook, the British fighter who defeated Porter for the IBF title back in 2014, was the last man Crawford beat. That prompted The Fight City to proclaim he is ‘one of the most outstanding talents of the last few years’. The fight ended inside four rounds, whilst he also defeated another strong British challenger, Amir Khan, in six. Whilst Porter is known as a pressure fighter, full of grit and spirit it is Crawford who many feel will come out on top in the bout. He’s rated as the favorite for the fight with Bwin, and such a victory would surely elevate him to worldwide acclaim. Despite his fine record, 28 knockouts in his 37 wins, he is not well-known outside of the U.S. This PPV might be the first time many global boxing fans have a chance to witness his devastating hand speed, as well as his comfortable switch from orthodox to southpaw. Not everybody within the boxing world feels the bout deserves its billing as a PPV event. Tim Bradley, a former WBO welterweight and WBC light-welterweight champion, feels the two men are not high profile enough to carry off such an event. “I walked around and asked 20 random people who don’t know anything about boxing. Do you know Terrence ‘Bud’ Crawford? They said no. Have you ever heard of Shawn Porter? No. All 20 of them said they never heard of them. So why is this fight on pay-per-view?” On November 20th at Las Vegas’ Mandalay Bay, Omaha’s Terence Crawford has a chance to prove Bradley wrong and finally get the recognition he deserves for his stellar record.

September 28 -October 3, 2021 Orpheum Theater

ticketomaha.com 402.345.0606

The Official Ticket Retailer for the Orpheum Theater and Holland Performing Arts Center

Page Six

LIFE & STYLE/HEALTH & WELLNESS Investing Your Retirement Savings? What’s “Suitable” May Not be the Best For You

THE OMAHA STAR

By Michael L. Green In the past in this column space, I have written many times about the pit falls of investing in annuities and the advantages of working with an independent advisor who practices under the fiduciary standard as opposed to brokers or sales people who are connected to insurance companies, large brokerages companies, and bank wealth management departments. What follows are excerpts from a New York Times article which ran in the World Herald Sunday a few years ago. I decided to reprint it because I believe the principles pointed out here are always valid. “When Elaine and Merlin Toffel, a retired couple in their 70s, needed help with their investments, they went to their local bank branch. The tellers knew them by their first names. So when the tellers suggested they meet with the bank’s investment brokers, the Toffel made an

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

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

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

appointment. After discussions and evaluation, the bank sold them variable annuities, in which they invested more than $650,000. The annuities promised to generate lifetime income payments…..”What she said they didn’t fully understand was that the variable annuities came with a hefty annual charge: about 4 percent of the amount invested. That’s about $26,000 annually-just about enough to buy a new or nearly new car every year. What’s more, if they needed to tap the money right away, there would be a 7 percent surrender charge, or more than $45,000” A spokesman for the bank, said the investments were appropriate for the Toffels, the fees were disclosed and the sale was completed after months of consultations.” The broker wasn’t allowed to explain his actions and recommendations. “But the Toffels like many consumers, say they didn’t realize their broker wasn’t required to follow the most stringent requirement for financial professionals, known as the fiduciary standard. It amounts to this: providing the advice that is always 100 percent in the consumer’s interest….” “Brokers, like those at the Toffels’ bank, are technically known as registered representatives. They are only required to recommend “suitable” investments based on an investor’s personal situation-their age, investment goals, time horizon and appetite for risk among other things. “Suitable” may sound adequate, but there’s a hitch; It can mean that a broker isn’t required to put the customer’s interest before his own.” In this case if there was a less costly alternative, the broker was not obligated to recommend it. “While many brokers do right by their clients, others push bad products at high prices,” said Knut A. Rostad, the regulatory and compliance officer at Rembert Pendleton

The University of Nebraska at Omaha is seeking a

Community Fellow

Reaching us is.

Service Learning Academy To serve as the lead liaison for the Addressing Redlining through Service Learning and Community Engagement Initiative. This includes being a liaison between the UNO Service Learning Academy (SLA), the Community Board (CB), community partners, residents, and individuals within the North Omaha redlined C and D areas. In this role, the Community Fellow will engage initiative stakeholders, help identify service learning opportunities, and will provide support to the Community Board as they identify priorities and projects and develop in their own understanding of community advocacy. Apply online at: https://unomaha.peopleadmin.com/postings/13807 This is a two-year, part time position.

If you care for someone with Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss or dementia, you are not alone. We’re here day or night — whenever you need us — offering reliable information and support. Free 24/7 Helpline: 800.272.3900 Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregiver Center: alz.org/care

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, relation, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status and/or political aﬃliation in its programs, activities, or employment. UNO is an AA/EEO/ADA institution. For questions, accommodations or assistance, please call/contact the ADA/504 Coordinator (phone: 402.554.3523) or the Director of Accessibility Services Center phone: 402.554.2872). UCTEMP20

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

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

October 1, 2021

Jackson, an investment advisor…they do so because their cultures celebrate sales. They do so because they can.” “This creates a muddle for investors. Say you sit down with a broker-one who isn’t legally required to act as a fiduciary- and the broker has access to a dozen mutual funds, all of which are deemed “suitable” for a particular customer. The broker can recommend the most expensive fund, even if it makes him more money at the consumer’s expense and isn’t preferable in any other way.” “On the other hand, if advisors are following a fiduciary standard, the proper course is clear: They have to recommend the one that is the lowest cost” because that will be in the consumer’s best interest.” An advisor’s pay can provide clues about whether their interests may be mismatched with consumers…. At the largest brokerage firms- Merrill Lynch, Wells Fargo, UBS Morgan Stanley (and the smaller ones-Edward Jones, Waddell Reed, and others, and just about all insurance companies) there are incentives to bring in new money. These firms typically pay their advisors 44-55% of the fees and commissions generated for their company’s products…” “Conflicts can also arise when a brokerage firm receives money from, say a mutual fund provider through a practice known as revenue sharing: Those funds may land on a “preferred list:, which a broker may favor.” At EverGreen Capital Management we have always operated by the fiduciary standard as an independent fee only advisor. This standard prevents independent registered investment advisors like us from having a conflict of interest. It requires complete transparency to the client and requires full disclosure of any conflicts or potential conflicts of interests. You’ve worked hard for your money, make it work for you.”

My Sister’s Keeper’s 21st Annual Celebration of Life Luncheon Please join My Sister’s Keeper in celebrating their Annual Celebration of Life Luncheon. This year’s theme is “ 2021Still a Fight to be Won”. There is no charge for breast cancer survivors but must call to have name added to the list. This event will take place on Sunday, October 24th, 2021, from Juanita Johnson 2:00-4:30 pm at Scott Conference Center at 6450 Pine St, Omaha, NE 68106. The keynote speaker is Juan A. Santamaria, Assistant Professor of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology at University of Nebraska Medical Center. This year’s emcee is Ms. Juanita Johnson, City Councilperson serving Juan A. Santamaria District 2. Due to the pandemic seating is limited to provide social distancing. Masks are mandatory and vaccinations are preferred. If you wish to be a sponsor, a vendor, place an ad in our book, purchase a ticket or have your name added to the list, please contact MaxCine Jackson @ (402) 5415803.

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.

October 1, 2021

PRAISE, WORSHIP, DEVOTION, OBITUARIES & INSPIRATION

Historic Mount Moriah Baptist Church to Celebrate 134th Anniversary in October

By Velma J. Sanders

Sunday, October 10th at 10:30 AM Anniversary Celebration with morning message from Dr. Ralph Lassiter, Senior Pastor Sunday, October 24th at 3:30 PM Special Outdoor Dedication Worship of the new building addition. Rev. Dwayne Hawkins, Pastor of Antioch Baptist Church and president of the New Era Baptist State Convention of Nebraska, Inc. will present the afternoon message. Rev. Tremaine Combs, Pastor of Mount Zion Baptist Church, Lincoln, NE will serve as worship leader. “We have been blessed for 134 years and Mount Moriah members continue with the mission of developing disciples of Jesus Christ who edify communities and glorify God” said Dr. Lassiter, Senior Pastor. Mount Moriah is located at 2602 North 24th Street. For safety purposes, masks will be required at all activities.

By Rev. Billy Holland

By Carey Kinsolving and Friends

“God created babies to entertain people,” says Jacob, age unknown. “They entertain by looking cute and talking baby talk. For some reason, people find it entertaining. Personally, I think it is silly.” Jacob, just wait until you and your wife have your first baby. You’ll be there with all the other dads saying, “Goo, goo, gah, gah.” “God made babies to be his treasures. He loves every one,” says Ben. The Bible says children are a “heritage from the Lord.” In the agricultural economy of ancient Israel, children were compared to “olive plants all around your table.” Also, they were compared to “arrows in the hand of a warrior,” which is symbolic of strength. For a fuller picture of children being a blessing, read Psalms 127 and 128. “The fruit of the womb is a reward,” declares the psalmist, in contrast to some people in our society who view their own babies as a hindrance to their lifestyle or career. Others refuse to be inconvenienced. They discard the reward by visiting the nearest abortion clinic. “God created babies to keep the human race alive,” says Ben. God’s first command to Adam and Eve was “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it” (Genesis 1:28). Babies are a vital part of God’s plan for mankind, and so are good parents. “If babies weren’t born, they couldn’t learn about God,” says Madeline. Jesus said there were certain things he had hidden from the wise but revealed to the childlike (Matthew 11:25). The “wise” of whom Jesus spoke were those who had heard and seen God’s revelation in his teaching and miracles, but had not turned to God. In contrast, little children love to be taught. God reveals himself to the humble, childlike and simple. We must learn to depend on God as a child looks to a parent. It’s akin to what Jesus taught about becoming as children to enter his kingdom. The Lord responds to simple, childlike faith. The faith that depends on the Lord Jesus as the only hope for heaven is the same faith we need to trust him with everyday problems. When it comes to life after death, the spiritually perceptive know they need the new life that the Lord Jesus offers to all who trust in him. But when it comes to everyday problems, our tendency is toward self-sufficiency. We enter this world as babies totally dependent on others. When born from above by God’s Spirit, we enter the spiritual world as babies. It takes time to grow up where we can say with the Apostle Paul, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). “I think God made babies so that they would grow up and serve him,” says Julia. “God made people to worship him,” adds Lymay. Think about this: The idea of God creating babies so they could grow up to serve and worship him may sound strange to some, but not to those who know that God has a master plan for each of us from our mother’s womb. Christians have a biblical basis for imparting a sense of destiny into the lives of their children. Unfortunately, many parents impart chaos and confusion by using television as a babysitter. Memorize this truth: “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord. The fruit of the womb is a reward” (Psalm 127:3). Ask this question: Have you devoted as much time and thought to your children’s relationship with God as their relationships with other children, physical health and recreational activities?

TRADITION • RESPECT • DIGNITY

A Tradition of Caring Since 1939

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

How must the man with dropsy have felt as he was being invited by one of the rulers of the Pharisees to a Sabbath meal? He probably was excited, but then must have wondered, “Why am I being invited?” As he knew that the Pharisees (“separated ones”), men of prominence and leaders in the community, did not socialize with those outside of their own social class. They certainly did not invite the poor, the maimed, the lame or the blind to sit at meal with them. However, because he possibly knew that Jesus was going to be at the meal, the man with dropsy saw this as a special invitation; to be invited by a Pharisee to meet Jesus. However, the intention of the Pharisee was not pure. He cared neither for the teachings of Christ and he certainly did not care about the man. The meal would not be held in a friendly environment. The air thick with animosity and Jesus is in the midst of adversaries. The ailing man was invited to the meal as a scheme of the Pharisees that they might accuse Jesus of healing on the Sabbath. Luke tells us in the New International Version of the Bible, “There in front of Him was a man suffering from abnormal swelling of his body.” Did you catch that? “Right there in front of Jesus.” The man was planted by the Pharisees and was placed directly across from Him. And, “they watched Him closely.” They thought they had their scheme figured out. Jesus would see the man and then heal the man. They did not anticipate that Jesus would first have a question for them. He asked, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?” We know that they did have an opinion on the matter because Luke 13:14 tells us where another ruler said to the crowd, “There are six days on which men ought to work; therefore, come and be healed on them, and not on the Sabbath day.” But, now, all of a sudden, not one single word of response was given. Jesus’ question silenced them. “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?” This is a question that required a simple “yes” or “no” answer. However, they could not say “yes,” because according to their perversions of the Law, they did not believe that. And, they dare not say, “no” in the presence of the infirmed man. They had no rebuttal; no argument; no defense. They remained silent. So, taking hold of the man, He healed him and sent him on his way.” That’s it… 1–2–3! Jesus took hold of the man! Jesus healed the man! Jesus let him go! Jesus Christ, as Lord of the Sabbath, restored and glorified the true meaning of Sabbath in the man who had been bound. He released him and gave him rest from his burdens. Jesus took him; healed him and, let him go … on the Sabbath! Vsanders875@centurylink.net

Placing our hope and trust in God alone

Kids Talk About God Why Did God Create Babies?

THOMAS FUNERAL HOME & Cremation Services

Page Seven

Sabbath Rest - Luke 14:1-4

Omaha’s oldest predominately African American Baptist Church will celebrate their 134th anniversary with preaching, praising and music. The celebratory theme is “Building on the Rock” from Matthew 7:25-26. Celebratory activities will take place as follows: Saturday, October 9th at 7:00 PM Musical concert in the Moriah Heritage Center featuring renowned gospel artists Chad Stone, Christi Ballard, and the Joe Taylor Quartet – Tickets are $25.00. Proceeds support the Faith-Walk to the Future Capital Campaign. For tickets, please call Mt. Moriah at 402-451-8800.

Visit Us At theomahastar.com

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Hope is one of those dynamic words that deserves the title of catalyst when it comes to change. It is a spiritual attribute that God’s people should use regularly as it is filled with life, excitement, and positive energy. Your first reaction to the idea of hope may be one of skepticism because you are thinking, it’s easy for someone to talk about hope when they do not understand what a terrible condition my life is in. Well, I may not have walked in your shoes, but I know that being negative and giving up will not make the situation better. It’s true that health and financial problems, discouragement, fear, and family and marital issues are very serious problems but the Lord has a special word for you today found in Romans 8:31, “If God be for us, who can be against us?” He knows everything that is happening in your life today and is waiting for you to place all of your hope and trust in Him alone. He is the God that cannot fail! Faith is believing in what we cannot see and we need hope in order to visualize the solution. The world is a fearful and unsatisfying place without the hope of knowing that Jesus is our refuge and security. Apart from the joyful expectation that comes from the hope of heaven, our world cannot provide spiritual peace or contentment. Hope gives purpose and meaning to our lives and inspires our decisions, emotions, and pursuits. Hope fills us with joy in the midst of our trials and fuels our perseverance as we press forward in God’s strength. Listen to Romans 8:24-25, “For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.” It gives us confidence to know that God not only has the power to help us but also desires to intervene into our circumstances. Knowing that Christ is faithful to respond to our prayers is a step toward being released from the bondage of our doubts. Hebrews 6:18 reminds us, “That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might

have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us.” When we look up the world’s definition of hope, it is described as, “an expectation for a certain thing to happen.” Many associate hope with wishing, but fantasizing is a half-hearted whim that changes from day to day. However, spiritual hope is associated with the reality of divine truth! This God kind of hope is more than waiting to see who wins the ballgame or if the casserole will taste good. It is spiritual nourishment that empowers the attributes of Christ within us and is based on who God is and what He has promised. Hope and faith work together as we see in Hebrews Chapter 11 and verse 1, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Believing is having a vision and a dream of anticipation which literally moves the heart of God. Listen to these words from Dr. Norman Vincent Peale. “Hope is a dynamic force, a reality filled with power. It can bring the weak back to strength. It can bring the sick back to health. It can turn failure into success. No wonder St. Paul included it as one of the three great principals of Christianity: faith, hope and love. What’s the condition of hope in your life at this very moment? Does it get up with you every morning? Does it carry you confidently through the day? Is it still there, soothing and sustaining you, as you fall asleep? That’s what God intended when he created this shining quality and poured it into us at birth. If cares, worries, fears and discouragement have gained a stronghold in your mind, then you need to open the windows of your soul and allow a strong, fresh current of hope to come surging through.” Yes, sometimes our journey takes us through the dark nights of the soul where we battle against anxiety and discouragement, but we are reminded in Romans 15:13, “Now may God, the source of hope, fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that through the power of the Holy Spirit, you may abound in hope.” Read more about the Christian life at billyhollandministries.com

Ready or Not, Here I Quit By Dr. James L. Snyder I do not quit easily. When I start a project, I like to work until it’s finished. I hate to quit before something is completed. Such is not the case with the Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage. Whatever she takes on and how much she takes on can always be finished on time. How she does it is beyond my understanding. Last summer, for example, we had the air conditioner guy come to fix our air conditioner. He looked at it and said he knew exactly what was wrong, but he didn’t have the right tool to fix it and so he had to go back to his office and get it. “What tool,” my wife said to him, “do you need to fix it?” He looked at her, laughed, and said, “Ma’am, I’m sure you don’t have anything near the kind of tool that I will need.” “Tell me what it is?” He looked at her, smiled, and then describe the tool that he needed to fix the AC problem. “Oh,” my wife said as she made her way back to the

garage. “I think I have that tool in my garage.” He laughed until she came back from the garage with the exact tool he needed to fix the problem. He just stared at her and didn’t know what to say. There is one project that I have been working on for years. Maybe it’s about time I quit that project. The project is, to understand how my wife manages to do all of those things? I must say she has saved me a lot of money through the years. One time the back bumper of my truck broke and I didn’t quite know how to fix it. I was planning to take it to the garage and get them to fix it when my wife came out and asked what was wrong. I told her about my rear bumper and she went to look at it. I had one of those “aha” moments where I thought here was a project she couldn’t fix. It needed a professional. In a few minutes, she went into the house and I thought she had given up. I didn’t blame her because I didn’t quite know how to fix it myself. Then she came back outside with one of those large Snyder continued on page 10

PRAISE & WORSHIP DIRECTORY

Page Eight THE OMAHA STAR

October 1, 2021

ALLEN CHAPEL A.M.E.

SACRED HEART CATHOLIC CHURCH

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

Rev. Jacqueline Ford

Sunday School...........................9:00 a.m. Sunday Praise & Worship.....10:00 a.m. Thursday Bible Study..............8:00 p.m. via teleconference, dial-in number 563-999-2090 and access code 576989

Fr. Dave Korth

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

Fr. Dave Korth

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

“Where Life is for Everyone”

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

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

SUNDAYS 10:00 AM

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

SALEM BAPTIST CHURCH

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

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

MOUNT CALVARY COMMUNITY CHURCH

Drs. Martin & Lynnell Williams Founders & Lead Pastors

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

“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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

Sunday School .............................................. 9:30 a.m. Worship Services .............................................. 10:45 a.m. Wednesday Prayer Services ..........................................6:30 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study.....................7:00 - 8:00 p.m. Biblically Based, Family Oriented, Dynamic Fellowship

CLAIR MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

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

Sunday School………………………8:45 a.m. Sunday Worship Experience………...10:00 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study….…….…….6:00 p.m.

Rev. T. Michael Williams

Dr. Ralph B. Lassiter

Elder Howard Dixon

MT. MORIAH MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

“Transformed People Everywhere” 2602 N. 24th St. - PO Box 11593 www.mtmoriahomaha.net Off: (402) 451-8800 Sunday Worship ..........................................10:45 a.m. Live Stream: Facebook.com/mtmoriahomaha Please call for Prayer and Transformation Group Bible Study Schedule

MT. NEBO MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

Services on Sundays at 8:30 am & 10:50 am

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

Rev. Morita Truman

ZION BAPTIST CHURCH Rev. Kenneth A. Allen, Pastor

Pastor Kenneth A. Allen

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

“The Church Where Fellowship is Real”

Sunday Morning Worship ...................................9:00 a.m. Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting .....................7:00 p.m. Wednesday Night Church School ......................7:30 p.m. Youth/Children Ministry Focus (Wed.) ............7:30 p.m.

Rev. Morita Truman, Lead Pastor

Pastor Barbara Mitchell

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

Pastor Terry L. Arvie

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

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

THE WORSHIP CENTER

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

“Where CHRIST is Preeminent and the Word Prevails!” 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

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

HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH

Missouri Synod 2721 N. 30th Street 402-453-1583 Sunday School................................10:00 a.m. Church Service...............................11:00 a.m. YOU ARE ALWAYS WELCOME

Sunday: Sunday School.................................................9:00 a.m. Morning Worship..........................................10:15 a.m. Televised Broadcast Sunday @ 10pm on KPAO Cox Communication channel 22 & Century Link channel 89

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

JOY OF LIFE MINISTRIES COGIC

Pastors Eric and Cynthia Butler

Rev. Michael Voithofer

6401 N. 56th Street Omaha, NE 68104 Ph: 402-399-9628 E-Mail: Jolpastor@aol.com Sunday School..........................9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship......................10:30 a.m. Sunday Evening Worship.......6:00 p.m. Wednesday Night ....................7:00 p.m. Bible Study and Youth Ministries

ABLAZE HOUSE OF PRAYER

11501 Fairview Road, Springfield, NE 68059 Ph: 402-451-6622 • Fax 402-457-6901 Contact Ablaze: email: ablazeworshipministry@gmail.com Pastor Eric Butler and Co-Pastor Cynthia Butler

Rev. Dr. Selwyn Q. Bachus

Pastor: Rev. Michael Voithofer

Dr. Stan Rone Senior Pastor

Sunday Kingdom Academy 9:00 a.m. Worship Celebration 10:15 a.m. Tuesday Prayer Hour 7:00 a.m. & 12:00 noon Wednesday Power Hour (Prayer/Bible Study) 6:30 p.m. Youth and Children 6:30 p.m. www.theworshipcenter24cog.org

October 1, 2021

BUSINESS BITES/CLASSIFIEDS

1. Have a solid business plan. Planning plays a role in a successful business. Plan on what will happen when things go wrong. 2. Prepare for financial challenges. Be extremely careful of debt. 3. Be frugal—remember you are a startup. Your company’s livelihood depends on what’s in your wallet. 4. Do not be afraid to ask for help.

10 Tips for successful Entrepreneurs

Networking is not just to secure business opportunities, it is also for new and fresh ideas. 5. Put your faith in a trusted mentor. A. mentor is an invaluable sounding board. Mentors have a positive impact on your business. 6. Do your marketing on a shoestring budget. Social media is your friend. Many

Chicken Tortilla Soup Crock Pot Style Ingredients 3 tablespoons butter 1 yellow onion diced 1 red pepper diced 1 yellow pepper diced 2 cloves garlic 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts 2 cans chicken broth 14.5-ounce cans 14 ounces red enchilada sauce 2 teaspoons cumin 1 can pinto beans drained, optional 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 1/2 cups frozen corn optional, do 1 teaspoon oregano not use canned 1 teaspoon taco seasoning 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped, for 1-2 cups heavy cream if desired, it garnish makes the soup creamier • Add butter to saute pan over medium heat. • Add in peppers, onion and garlic and cook vegetables are slightly tender. • Add to slow cooker. • Place chicken breast on top of the vegetables, add remaining base ingredients and cook on high for 3-4 hours. • Once the chicken is cooked, shred the chicken. • Add remaining ingredients or those add-ons that you wish to add and cook on high for 1 hour. • Serve with your choice of garnishes

Social media resources are FREE. 7. Look after number one. Entrepreneurship is a lifestyle. Take care of your health. 8. Build a team that shares your vision. Take time to interview and hire staff that fit your culture and share your values.

THE OMAHA STAR

Page Nine

9. Never stop learning. Take advantage of free or low cost e-learning resources. Sharpen your project or time management skills. 10. Safeguard your venture. Mitigate risk. Carry small business insurance.

Apply for a job that makes a difference. Join our team as a ReStore Retail Sales Associate or a Donations Driver. Apply at habitatomaha.org/about-us/careers

Business Connection Arborist

B & E Tree Service

Tree Trimming, Tree Removal, Stump Removal and Haul Away

Eric Neal

Licensed Arborist Fully insured and bonded @betreeservice on Facebook

402-753-5891

Attorney

Timothy Ashford

Auto Service

Home Team Auto Sales

Ron Devers owner 402.641.6220 6005 Sorenson Pkwy Omaha, NE 68152

Attorney at Law

Ron's Auto Center

1603 Farnam Street Omaha, NE 68102 (402) 660-5544

ericneal18@cox.net

attorneytimothyashford@gmail.com

Candle Boutique

Carry Out Food

Casket Service

Clinic

Construction TAYLORD SPACES.COM

Smells So Good! Owners: Theresa White Chantelle Green

Our Signature candles are all natural and made with soy wax. These candles are sure to light up any room with pure joy!

telleandresa@gmail.com www.telleandresa.com

Grocery Store

Hours

Wednesday 11AM - 6PM Thursday 11AM - 6PM Friday 11AM - 6PM Saturday 11AM - 6PM

Quality Choice Caskets

Handy Services

Offering screenings for STDs, HIV, High Blood Pressure and Diabetes Limited Care for Chronic Illnesses 5620 Ames Ave • Omaha NE 68104

www.qualitychoicecaskets.com

Phone: 402-933-0737 www.noahclinic.org

Home Improvement Housing 55 & older

darrelltaylor@taylordspaces.com 402.850.6149 ericataylor@taylordspaces.com 402.212.1063

Information

2 and 2 Contracting

Ms.Makayla.Thomas@gmail.com 402.541.3379

Insured & Bonded Professional

Insurance

New York Life Insurance Company One Valmont Plaza, Suite 100 Omaha, NE 68154 Bus. 402.496.6429 Cell 402.510.4186 Fax 402.496.6458 jlord@ft.nyl.com

3439 State Street Omaha, Nebraska 68112 402.451.4477 www.sevenoaksnd.org

Authorized to Offer

Life Insurance and Annuity Program fromNew York Life

Have You Heard About The Business Connection?

Kim Robinson, M.B.A. 1913 Military Avenue Omaha, NE 68104 402-999-8357 (office) 402-502-0253 (fax) robinsoninsurance@omhcoxmail.com

Mobile Food

Retirement Planning zŽƵΖǀĞ ǁŽƌŬĞĚ ŚĂƌĚ ĨŽƌ ǇŽƵƌ ŵŽŶĞǇ͕ DĂŬĞ ŝƚ ǁŽƌŬ ĨŽƌ ǇŽƵ͘

To advertise your business, please contact Terri Sanders.

Join Today! Call 402-346-4041 or email publisher@omahastarinc.com

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Sherman P. Willis, Agent 4915 N 120th St Ste 107 Omaha, NE 68164 Bus: 402-493-1000 sherman@shermanpwillis.com Mon-Fri 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Evenings and Sat by appt. 24/7 Good Neighbor Service

1211999

LION'S GATE SECURITY INC FULL SERVICE SECURITY FIRM

2918 N 108TH ST OMAHA 68164

www.lionsgatesecurityservices.com

MONTHLY ONE ON ONE TRAINING AVAILABLE CALL FOR PACKAGE PRICING

COMMITTED TO YOUR SUCCESS TO REACH YOUR FITNESS GOALS

Insurance

For information on performances 402-201-1776

Real Estate

3932 N 90th Street Omaha, Nebraska 68134 SR-22, Auto, Home, Life, Health, Commercial, Annuities

Residential Services InfoSafeProtecting Shredding Your Privacy

Residential and Commercial Real Estate Agents

Mobile Document Destruction

Development and Project Owners Representation

• Residential Services • Discounts for Seniors

Construction

Mike Paulson, President 10630 Chandler Rd. Bay #3 LaVista, NE 68128

NAID AAA Certified

Cell: 402-720-9064 Business: 402-891-2688 mpinfosafeshredding@gmail.com

Shoes

Truck Drivers

Towing

Tenna Shu (shoe)

WANTED Truck Drivers CDL DRIVERS 48 STATES C & N TRANS

PALACE

Where you’re treated like royalty! SECURITY SERVICES EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT CPR-FIRST AID-AED CONTACT TRACING DATA-CYBER SECURITY

pkcement@yahoo.com 504-609-1491

blairfreeman.com 402-819-6200 minfro@blairfreeman.com

State Farm, Bloomington, IL

Security

Coach Percy Keith Performance Training

(402) 359-3296

100% Female Owned Company

Auto • Home • Life • Health • Dental • Vision ALSO AVAILABLE Commercial Insurance

Fitness Training

Jason Roberts

Independent Seniors 55 & Over Call Seven Oaks at Notre Dame HOME! Call for a Tour Today!

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For an appointment www.polobland.com

Your Ally for affordable Insurance

ATTENTION ATTENTION ATTENTION

John Lord, LUTCF, RHU® Agent

~ For over 8 years Polo has been an elite barber in the Omaha metropolitan area. ~ 2x Barber of the Year nominee for UNLYP ~ Cuts have been featured on ESPN, MTV, CNN, Nickelodeon, and various news outlets.

ALLY INSURANCE BROKERS OF OMAHA

Makayla,Son & Oldham, LLC

A CUT ABOVE DOWN NORTH Meet your new barber:

Hours 6am-10pm 7 days a week

Services are Free but donations accepted

UBER EATS available

Call to Carry out

In the community, for the community

New Home Construction Additions & Remodels Also build homes in East Omaha Swimming pool installation

Barber Shop

Tyrone Hayes (Owner) 1822 N. 33rd St. Omaha, NE 68111

402.215.3822

Tyrone@Tennashupalace.com

Mike 239-292-6647

Andrew: 239-994-0319

candntrans41@yahoo.com

PROVIDING A+ SERVICE TO OMAHA AND THE SURROUNDING AREA

YOUTH/EDUCATION NEWS October 1, 2021 Mandela Hosts Reading Festival FAFSA opens at Miller Park Friday, October 1

Page Ten THE OMAHA STAR

On Thursday, September 23, scholars from Nelson Mandela Elementary and students from Holy Name and Miller Park and Minne Lusa Elementary gathered at Miller Park to celebrate reading. The scholars and students were introduced to the illustrator Frank Morrison and local author Demetria Ballard, and they got to enjoy several activities and presentations. Demetria Ballard founded D. Nicole Girls Academy, a program to promote wellness in young girls. Her book, Little Miss Imperfect, encouraged self-confidence in the scholars and students. Scholars and students that answered questions correctly after her presentation received a free book. Frank Morrison is visual artist, dancer, teacher, and illustrator. He presented the scholars and students with a story written by his wife that he illustrated, I Got the Rhythm. He also shared with the scholars his journey to becoming an artist and where he finds inspiration in an interactive presentation. This was Mandela’s first reading festival, organized and sponsored by the Lozier Foundation. The school is hopeful that it will become an annual festival for the entire community to enjoy.

(Lincoln, Neb.) EducationQuest is reminding Nebraskans the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) opens Friday, Oct. 1, 2021, at studentaid. gov or those planning to attend college during the 2022-23 academic year. The FAFSA is the application for federal, state and college-based financial aid. Colleges use information contained in the FAFSA to determine eligibility for financial aid, which can be a combination of scholarships, grants, workstudy and student loans. Prior to starting the FAFSA, applicants must create a Federal Student Aid Account at studentaid.gov. The parent or guardian of a dependent student must also create an account. Keep careful track of user names and passwords as they are required to access and sign the FAFSA. Income tax return information from 2020 will be required to complete the application. EducationQuest Senior Vice President Daphne Hall said, “College is a big investment, and the reality is most students need financial aid to make earning a degree possible. Filing your FAFSA early can make all the difference when it comes to paying for college. While the form itself can seem intimidating, it isn’t that complicated and EducationQuest can help with a variety of free online resources as well as personal assistance.”

Snyder continued from page 7

universal paper clips. When I saw her with it I started to laugh. She just looked at me, grinned and went over to the rear bumper and in a few moments, she had it fixed. That was four years ago and it’s still fixed. So, I have come to that point in my life where I am ready to quit. Ready to quit trying to figure out how she knows so much of everything associated with tools. Every man that thinks he understands a woman has never yet been married. There are so many mysteries in life and I have come to the point where I

have quit trying to figure out most of those mysteries. A verse of Scripture came to my mind, “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” (Amos 3:3). Sometimes that agreement is simply a mutual understanding of the differences between each other. The secret to this is not to quit but to keep moving forward. Dr. James L. Snyder is pastor of the Family of God Fellowship, Ocala, FL 34472, where he lives with his wife. Call him at 352-216-3025 or e-mail jamessnyder2@att.net. The church web site is www.whatafellowship.com

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Your Path Forward Starts Now KNOCK OUT YOUR GEN EDS

WINTER CLASSES BEGIN DEC. 2. MEET WITH AN ENROLLMENT SPECIALIST TODAY. TO GET STARTED, VISIT MCCNEB.EDU/PATHFORWARD.

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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.