Vol.80 - No.23

75 CENTS

OMAHA STAR

THE

Celebrating 80 Years

1938 2018

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. 80 - No. 23 Omaha, Nebraska

Friday, November 16, 2018

Have a Blessed and Happy Thanksgiving!

75 cents

Funny, Yet Serious, to the Core: The Amber Ruffin Story

By Leo Adam Biga NBC’s “Late Night with Seth Meyers” gives more than lip service to diversity thanks to Omaha native Amber Ruffin, a writer-performer on the New Yorkbased show.

She’s a singular presence for her strong Afro-centric takes on social issues. She became the first black female writer in U.S. late night network television when she joined the staff in 2014. It marked her national debut. But she’s no newcomer. She comes from a deep improv background that started here and took her to comedy capitals.

In the recurring “Late Night” segments “What You Say” and “Amber’s One-Minute of Fury” she calls out newsmakers for everything from their stupid attire to their ugly rhetoric to their heinous acts. Her subversive bits play like funny truth sessions by a righteous sister reporting from the trenches of Being Black in America.

“That’s my goal,” Ruffin said. “You’ll never be wrong when you say police should stop murdering children in the street. That (hate) being a lot of my subject matter just gives me tremendous confidence because it’s never been more right and it’s never been more important.”

The writer-actress headlines the

Sunday, Nov. 25 Inclusive Communities (IC) FriendsGiving at Slowdown.

Her high-energy performances sometimes find her flitting across stage as cameras try tracking her. While she can be serious when making a point, her default personality is sweet, silly, manic. She was voted Class Clown at Omaha Benson High School.

It seems this dynamo hasn’t fallen far from the tree.

“You think I’m a happy person, whoowhee, my parents are really happy,” said Amber, whose mother was voted Class Clown at her high school in Savannah, Georgia.

As a kid, Amber used humor to deflect the hurtful things classmates said about her then-homely looks.

Nobody thinks the vivacious Ruffin is homely anymore.

“Humor WAS my way to survive.

When kids make fun of you, it’s nice to give them something else to laugh at.”

That experience still informs her.

“My day to day humor stems from a need to make everyone feel welcome and comfortable and happy, which stems from getting made fun of so badly. It’s assumed people use comedy to put up walls, but I think in many cases the opposite is true. I can say exactly how I feel no matter how uncomfortable it makes you – if there’s a joke attached.”

Her folks, Theresa and James Ruffin,

are both from the South. They met at Offutt Air Force Base while serving in the military. They later ran their own business, T and J Daycare Centers.

Amber’s the youngest of their five children. She’ll be with family over the holiday when she comes home for the IC event. It’s her second year in a row doing it.

IC Executive Director Maggie Wood said Ruffin’s humor is appreciated by the organization.

“We know how heavy this work can be and the levity of laughter makes us a little more resilient to confront prejudice, bigotry and discrimination.”

Instead of a stand-up set or a speech, Ruffin will engage in conversation with the IC team on stage in response to some loosely scripted questions.

“Our donors, volunteers and supporters all know we need to face this work head on. That’s exactly what Amber does in her commentary. We’re so excited to have her back,” Wood said.

Growing up, Ruffin acutely felt Omaha’s lack of diversity.

“I remember just wanting there to be more me, and there wasn’t. I still don’t have a lot of me. I’ve seen how important it is to have a place where you feel like you can belong and I’m also quite jealous of it because I’ve never had just a place like that where

#Election2018 – Kemp Urges Abrams to Quit; Abrams Refuses to Back Down

By Itoro N. Umontuen Monday, Republican gubernatorial candidate Brian Kemp said it’s “long overdue” for Democrat Stacey Abrams to concede. Kemp, formerly Georgia’s Secretary of State, crowned himself the winner of the contentious governor’s race and stepped down from the office last Thursday.

“Stacey Abrams and her radical backers have moved from desperation to delusion,” said Ryan Mahoney, Kemp’s communications director, in a statement.

“On Saturday, military, overseas, and provisional ballots were reported throughout Georgia. The counts are in line with publicly available tracking reports.

This is not breaking news and does not change the math. Stacey Abrams lost and her concession is long overdue.”

Sunday, the Abrams campaign filed a lawsuit in federal court alleging absentee ballots were not counted. Furthermore, the purpose of the lawsuit is to make election officials accept rejected provisional ballots that have incomplete or missing information if they can verify voter information through additional means.

The Kemp campaign said there are 21,190 provisional ballots still outstanding and if all of those ballots were for Abrams, it would not be enough to trigger a run-off election. Coincidentally, that number is in line with estimates given by the Georgia Secretary of State’s office. Meanwhile, the Abrams campaign believes there are a total of 33,507 ballots that were not counted (26,846 provisional ballots, 1,303 early votes, 2,674 vote-by-mail (absentee) ballots and 2,684 military and overseas ballots).

“Almost a week after Election Day, we find ourselves in the not unfamiliar place of having to fight for the representation and rights of Georgia voters who were not seen or heard in this election – an election overseen by Georgia governor candidate and recent Secretary of State Brian Kemp,” said Abrams campaign manager Lauren Groh-Wargo.

“So here’s what we know: Georgia voters were confronted at the voting booth by widespread irregularities, which were reported by multiple media outlets. Insufficient machines, long lines, confused poll workers, conflicting and arbitrary guidance that varied widely by county – none of it designed to make

Be a hero – Nov. 28.

See In the Village for details.

you can be as you as you want to be.”

Theresa Ruffin said dealing with Omaha’s lack of diversity “was challenging to say the least.” When she worked at Peter Kiewit Corp. for a year, she said, “I was the only black person in the building.”

Though Amber didn’t have any immediate show business role models, she gravitated to performing. She played piano at Omaha Trinity Hope Foursquare Church. She also developed an early love of theater.

“I just love musicals,” she said.

She got the bug playing Princess Winnifred in a Benson High production of Once Upon a Mattress.

“I just spent so much time watching theater and doing a lot of theater that everything I love is theater-based.”

Going out on a limb is a Ruffin trait.

“We are a little adventurous,” Amber said. “My mom graduated high school at 16. Every summer she went to New York to find out what the world was about. My oldest sister lived in Panama.

Another sister lived in Namibia. It’s just in our bones to see what’s out there.”

Her sisters are also published writers.

The movie The Wiz made a big impression on Amber.

“Many people believe The Wiz has the best music of any musical. I am one of those people. It was also rare to see a show with an all-black cast that has

Black Votes Matter

By Preston Love Jr. UNO Adjunct Professor Prestonlovejr.com Black Lives, Black Poverty and Black Votes Matter 2018 Election: North Omaha Voted Like Crazy!

Photo by Itoro N. Umontuen Stacey Abrams

voting easy or simple for millions of eligible Georgia voters.”

Kemp faced numerous charges of attempted voter suppression during the campaign and demands from Democrats that he step aside as Georgia’s chief elections official, which he dismissed.

Also on Monday, Democratic Senators Cory Booker of New Jersey and Brian Schatz of Hawaii released a joint letter asking the Justice Department’s civil rights division to investigate claims of voter suppression in the race.

“The Department of Justice still has the authority and the obligation to enforce the Voting Rights Act and protect the right to vote,” the senators said in a statement. “In the case of Georgia’s election, the DOJ should ensure that all votes are counted and that voters have a meaningful opportunity to ensure their absentee and provisional ballots are counted; and conduct a thorough investigation into the potential voting rights abuses that have been reported before, during, and after the election.”

In October, the Associated Press concluded 53,000 voter registrations were on hold due to Georgia’s exact-match law and the aforementioned letter focuses on the controversial law.

No media outlet has been able to call this election as of 7:00 p.m. Monday evening.

(This article originally appeared in the Atlanta Voice.)

nothing to do with being black. Often times, black people have to talk about their experience with being black to be valued. But these people didn’t. It was just a story of joy.”

She’s contributed to the work of a new stage version of The Wiz that premiered in June at the 11,000-seat Muny amphitheater in St. Louis.

“I rewrote the words with the original writer (William F. Brown) who is 91 in April. I have written a few musicals and my love of The Wiz is no secret. We’re See Ruffin continued on page 7

After years of low voting numbers in post 2008 (Obama era), North Omaha voters are fully awake and taking care of business after years of pounding the streets, forums, town halls, voter registration and education efforts, our first North Omaha Political Convention, finally a commitment of staff and money by the Nebraska Democratic Party, new fresh activism by up and coming political leadership like Precious McKesson, Barry Thomas, Kimara Snipes, NOISE and many others, added to the long term work of Black Votes Matter and even the presidency of Donald Trump, North Omaha has gotten the point, that our vote is critical for our own survival and interest.

We saw some glimmer of light in 2017, when North Omaha voted well during the Mayoral race. But in this past election we took care of business. We need to understand that once again North Omaha is a voting force that has to be reckoned with. Congratulations North Omaha, celebrate your community victory.

Let’s review the numbers: 1. We broke records for voting during a mid-term election. 2018, we voted at 40%.

In the 2014 midterm we voted slightly under 30%.

2. Over 14,000 North Omahans voted November 6. Compare that to these facts. In 2014, during the mid-term there were 9,300 North Omaha voters, in the 2017, Mayoral election we had 8,500 North Omaha voters, in 2016, a Presidential year, we had 11,700 voters.

Congratulations for North Omaha’s role in passing Nebraska Medicaid Expansion. This vote will have a massive positive impact on

health care for the poor in North Omaha.

We had additional victories. Spencer Danner and Michael Hughes both ran excellent races, and both made history.

Danner as the top African American votegetter in Nebraska history (in a statewide race) and Hughes for his great and historical race to be the first Black Sheriff in Douglas County. Celebrate them. They are just beginning.

Additionally, the Black Votes Matter (BVM) slate endorsed many candidates judged to be good for North Omaha. North Omaha helped them get elected!! Even while not victorious, I commend Mina Davis (state senate), Jane Raybould (US Senate), and Bob Krist (Governor) for respecting and running in North Omaha. Kara Eastman ran a great race and nearly won the CD2 seat, in spite of the gerrymandered congressional district. North Omaha did its job, but could not overcome the Sarpy county vote.

Congratulations to winners: Marque Snow (OPS), Kimara Snipes (OPS), Shavonna Holman (OPS), Jane Skinner (Auditor), Diane Battiato (Register of Deeds), Debra Neary (State Bd. of Education), Barbara Weitz and Elizabeth O’Connor (Regents), Fred Conley (NRD) and Eric Williams (OPPD).

Shout out too many for their hard word in making this a significant election for North Omaha. Heartland Workers Center (HWC), Nebraska Democratic Party North Omaha office and the Kara Eastman North Omaha office conducted intense door knocking and phone banking. BVM hosted a Concert for Change. 101.3 aired a weekly election segment on the morning show. Several candidate forums were conducted by Black Men United, BVM, the League of Women Voters, NOISE and the NDP Black Caucus.

Our North Omaha clergy provided leadership and messaging within the community.

On Election Day, Ms McKesson organized a successful street corner visibility effort throughout North Omaha; BVM provided scores of rides to the polls and fielded a vast amount of voter questions and issues.

North Omaha celebrate your victories!!

It’s the most wonderful time Make a Joyful of the year - Christmas in Noise – Dec. 2. the Village is Dec. 1.

See In the Village for details.

Page Two

LOCAL NEWS

THE OMAHA STAR

November 16, 2018

THE OMAHA STAR, INC. OFW Announces Designer Lineup for February THE VOICE OF THE BLACK COMMUNITY

Editorial and Business Office 2216 North 24th Street Phone: 402.346.4041 Fax: 402.346.4064

MAILING ADDRESS: 2216 North 24th Street Omaha, Nebraska 68110

WEB ADDRESS: www.theomahastar.com

Like Us on Facebook E-MAIL ADDRESSES: fwilliams@omahastarinc.com phyllis@omahastarinc.com tcooper@omahastarinc.com Notary Services available during business hours Monday – Wednesday – 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

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 Frankie Jean Williams: Copy Editor Tanya Cooper: Circulation/Retail Coordinator Carl Hill: Retail Distributor Debra Shaw: Social Media Administrator

The producers of Omaha Fashion Week (OFW) have announced the designers who have been selected to show collections during the next season of OFW, Feb. 25-March 2. Last week, designers pitched their ideas to a panel of industry experts brought together by OFW. The experts scored each designer and provided feedback that was used to make final decisions.

The designers were scored on innovation, construction, marketability, concept, and the overall presentation.

OFW shows will be held at Omaha Design Center. Here is a breakdown of the week’s schedule: Feb. 25: Omaha Wedding Salon Brides can plan their big day in fashion by enjoying an evening of inspiration at this glamorous bridal themed showcase. From a high-end runway show full of bridal trends from local designers and boutiques, to the vendor market showcasing hors d’oeuvres, tablescapes, and floral arrangements, future brides can check off every category on their wedding to-do list!

Feb. 26: Metropolitan Community College Student Night Features collections by students at Omaha Central High School, Omaha South High 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. School, Nebraska 4-H, the Kent Bellows

Mentoring Program at the Joslyn Art Museum and Nebraska FCCLA. During the show, OFW will host a Q&A panel discussion on careers in creative industries, such as Fashion, Photography, Design and more! (Panel TBA) Blocks of complimentary tickets are available for student groups by emailing info@omahafashionweek.com.

Feb. 27: UNL Student Showcase Produced by Omaha Fashion Week in partnership with UNL’s Department of Textiles, Merchandising and Fashion Design (TMFD), senior fashion design students will collectively show their original works!

Additionally, the event will be staffed by student volunteers who will help run the backstage and front of house under the direction of the OFW team.

Feb. 28: Methodist Survivor Show Celebrate the triumph over cancer as 100+ survivors take over the runway wearing looks from local boutiques! Presented

by Methodist Hospital, part of proceeds benefit the Inner Beauty Salon at Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center.

March 1: Emerging Designer Showcase • KLYNNE from Kelsey Sextro • Lana by Lauren Latham and Anna Hall • Elem by M.L. by Makayla Leiting

• Greta Slagle Designs • MA by Melissa Atkinson • Victoria Cygan • Xi 2 Si by Qiyao Xiong and Thla Sui • Otto & Olsen by Katelyn Otto and Grace Olsen • Lovellfaye by Lovell Cox • Blond by Rylie Smith and Blaze Best • Hannah Jensen March 2: Featured Designer Showcase • Abigail Faith by Abigail Faith Goeser • Rachel Pollack Designs • J. Tierney Designs by Jennifer Tierney • CJB Designs by Courtney Barbour • Makenzie Lesiak • Roger Figueroa • Little Lola Bunny by Erin Hennings • Rachel Patten • Only by Faith by Marie Nelson • Indigo Eye Designs by Kelsey Young

March 3: Shop the Runway Sunday Join the OFW Team for a “breakfast of champions” featuring donuts and mimosas.

Guests will have the opportunity to shop the collections featured on the runway and meet the designers behind the clothing. Free and open to the public.

Headlining Designers and Pre-Show Entertainment will be announced at a later date.

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: phyllis@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 Phyllis Hicks at 402.346.4041.

ATTENTION From The Publisher: In order to be included in the Omaha Star, all articles and announcements must be submitted by e-mail to fwilliams@ omahastarinc.com no later than two weeks in advance of the event. All articles and announcements should be prepared in a word document using Times New Roman, 10 pt. Submissions must be limited to 500 words. Any accompanying photographs should be submitted in a jpeg or pdf file. The deadline for all articles is Monday at 3:00 p.m., two weeks prior to the event date. Articles and announcements will not be accepted at the Omaha Star office. The Omaha Star is now published bi-weekly on Fridays. The Omaha Star business office hours are MondayThursday, 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

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

7312 N. 30th St.

Baker’s Supermarket

4405 N. 72nd St.

Big Mama’s

3223 N. 45th St.

Chubb’s Finer Foods

2905 N. 16th St.

Cubby’s

4232 Redman Ave.

Cubby’s Old Market

601 S. 13th Street

Easy Drive Package

5124 N. 24th St.

Family Fare Supermarket

820 N. Saddle Creek Rd.

Family Fare Supermarket

7402 N. 30th St.

Felicia’s Beauty & Barber Shop

4802 NW Radial Hwy

Hy-Vee Supermarket

5150 Center St.

Hy-Vee Supermarket

108th & Fort St.

Offutt Air Base - Welcome Center Omaha Rockets Kanteen

Bellevue, NE 2401 Lake St.

Phil’s CASHSAVER A cost Plus Food Outlet

3030 Ames Ave.

Skeet’s Barbeque

2201 N. 24th St.

Walgreens

3001 Dodge St.

Walgreens

7202 N. 30th St.

Walgreens

3005 Lake St.

Walgreens

4310 Ames Ave.

Walgreens

2929 North 60th St.

Walgreens

7151 Cass St.

Walgreens

6005 N. 72nd St.

Walgreens

225 N. Saddle Creek Rd.

Walgreens

1802 Galvin Road, S (Bellevue)

DNC on Historic Diversity of Democratic Candidates Following last week’s election, DNC Chair Tom Perez released the following statement: “Last night, Democrats elected the most diverse group of candidates in our party’s history. Voters across the country sent a loud and clear message that our leaders should represent the diversity of our country.

“Michelle Lujan Grisham was elected as the first Latina Democratic governor, while Sylvia Garcia and Veronica Escobar became Texas’ first two Latina congresswomen. We sent the first Native American women to Congress in Deb Haaland and Sharice Davids, the first Muslim women to Congress in Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib, and the youngest women ever to be elected to Congress in Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Abby Finkenauer.

Ayanna Pressley and Jahana Hayes both made history as the first-ever African-American women elected to Congress from all of New England, while Lauren Underwood became the first African-American woman elected to serve Illinois’ 14th District. New York elected Tish James as its first African-American woman attorney general and Jared Polis became the nation’s first openly gay man elected governor and Colorado’s first Jewish governor. And military veterans like Mikie Sherrill and Elaine Luria flipped at least six House seats from red to blue.

“These are just a few highlights from a historic night – and the results are still coming in. From Andy Kim to Gina Ortiz Jones, several inspiring candidates are still locked in tight races that are still too close to call. And in Georgia, we stand fully behind Stacey Abrams as she continues to fight for victory in the face of unprecedented voter suppression efforts by Brian Kemp and Georgia Republicans.

“Even in races where we didn’t come out ahead, voters turned out in record numbers to support candidates who shared their values. In Florida, Andrew Gillum ran an inspiring campaign that energized millions of Floridians and sparked hope across the Sunshine State. Andrew is a rising Democratic star, and he gives me confidence that our party’s future is bright in Florida and across the country.

“Representation matters. When the people we entrust with political power reflect the great diversity of the people they represent, we are stronger as a nation. The DNC was proud to support such a historic slate of candidates in races from the school board to the Senate across the country. And make no mistake: the diversity of our candidates, our organizers, and our voters were key to flipping the House and electing Democrats up and down the ballot.

Democrats believe diversity is our nation’s strength, and we look forward to lifting up Democrats from every background as we work to win even more elections in the future.

“Democrats put hope on the ballot last night, and that’s why the American people elected Democratic candidates across the country. We never backed down from our values of inclusion and opportunity, because we know that those are not only our party’s values, they’re America’s values.”

144th Street Trail Closure The east portion of the 144th Street Trail between West Maple Road and Eagle Run Drive closed on Monday so that MUD can work on a water line. The trail will remain closed through March 2019 and reopen on March 31. Trail users can use the west portion of the 144th Street Trail as a detour around the construction.

Please direct any questions to Dennis E. Bryers, FASLA, PLA, City of Omaha Parks, Recreation & Public Property Department, at 402-444-3798, or dennis.bryers@cityofomaha.org.

Omaha Star Philosophy: At the Star we look at ourselves as the documentarians of African-American news in Omaha.

We strive to make our readers and our advertisers proud they support a publication that portrays the African-American as a multidimensional person capable of excelling in areas other than sports, entertainment and politics.

Publishing dates for the Omaha Star

NDOT Seeks Creative Friday Safety Messages LINCOLN – “You’re Not a Pumpkin, Don’t Drive Smashed” The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) wants your ideas on safe driving advice to travelers in “Friday Safety Messages” via electronic message boards along Nebraska’s Interstate and other major highways. These messages will be posted on Fridays and the more creative, the better.

Perhaps you’ve caught a glimpse of some of these messages over the past couple of years, including “Drive Exemplary, It’s Elementary,”, or “Drive Like it’s the 80’s. Hair Up. Phone Down” or a 4th of July reminder of “Fireworks Should Be The Only Thing Getting Lit.” Many of these short safety snippets have tied in with holidays or special events, current events, back-to-school or sports.

After a successful launch last year followed by even more interest in the spring of 2018, the NDOT, in partnership with the Nebraska State Patrol, wants to continue that effort, reaching out to the public for witty, creative messages to display on Dynamic Message Signs (DMS) across the state. A new safety message is posted every Friday, for 24 hours from 12:00 a.m. Friday to 12:00 a.m. Saturday, on overhead DMS along I-80 and I-29, reminding motorists to consider all aspects of driving and safety.

Submissions are being accepted through Dec. 14 for these safety-oriented messages. Those submitting messages are encouraged to consider topics about safe driving, including tie-ins with holidays in late winter and early spring and upcoming events through winter and early spring of 2019. Submissions need to be three lines of text, with a maximum 18 characters per line (spaces count). These will be evaluated to conform to regulations and edited for clarity. Submissions should be sent to NDOT’s website: http://dot.nebraska.gov/ news-media/friday-safety-message-idea-submission/.

Don’t’ delay. Send your Friday Safety Messages today, and remember: “DON’T FUMBLE YOUR LIFE AWAY, BUCKLE UP!”

MCC StudentRefurbished Car Goes to Auction

A 1933 Ford Street Rod, restored by Metro Community College students and faculty, is now up for auction. A project that began in 2014, the street rod began as little more than a shell of a car, in need of an entire overhaul. Students from MCC’s Auto Collision Technology, Automotive Technology, Precision Machine Technology and Welding programs all played key roles in making the car the beautiful work of art it is today.

The green-colored car has a 5.0L Ford engine and automatic transmission. The car also includes a Pete & Jake’s chassis, vintage air, Ridler wheels and Wilwood brakes. The hot rod has appeared at area car shows in Nebraska City, Plattsmouth and Omaha.

Proceeds from the hot rod sale will benefit MCC student programming and curriculum. The car is currently listed by The Mecum Auction Company, a world leader in collector car, vintage and antique motorcycle sales, hosting auctions throughout the United States. The hot rod will appear at Mecum’s auction in Kansas City, Mo., on Dec. 8 at the Kansas City Convention Center.

For more information about the car, call 531-622-5807 or visit mccneb.edu/hotrod.

Support Those Who Support You

November 2018 *Friday (Christmas in the Village)

November 30, 2018

December 2018 Friday Friday

December 14, 2018 December 28, 2018

Notary Services Available

LOCAL NEWS THE OMAHA STAR Saving Grace Perishable Food Rescue

November 16, 2018

Disability Election Protection Program sets National Record

By Debra L. Shaw

Lincoln – “When someone came with a wheelchair in the past, we just jerry-rigged a ramp to get them over the parking barrier.”

This was what poll workers told a trained election observer on Election Day 2018 about how people with disabilities can access a polling place. It’s also an example of why The Arc of Nebraska, Civic Nebraska, Common Cause Nebraska, and a coalition of advocates recently assembled an election protection program with a special emphasis on disability issues.

Having seen pervasive issues in polling locations, it was clear action was needed, said Edison McDonald, executive director of The Arc of Nebraska, a nonprofit advocacy group for Nebraskans with disabilities and their families.

The resulting program produced the largest of its kind in the nation on Election Day. “Before this election, we only had a report covering 178 polling places across the nation from the Government Accountability Office,” McDonald said. “Now we have information from over 200 polling places in Nebraska alone to look at. This data set will produce invaluable opportunities to improve our systems for people with disabilities.”

The election protection program helped answer questions and addressed accessibility issues in polling places around Nebraska.

The information gathered by election observers covered a variety of issues, including physical handicaps, functionality of voting machines, and intellectually disabled voters who had been improperly turned away.

The information gathered also comes as the State of Nebraska receives federal dollars under the Help America Vote Act (HAVA), which ensures accessibility and security in elections.

“We believe this voter protection program can lead to better accessibility for everyone,” said John Cartier, director of voting rights for Civic Nebraska. “All Nebraskans deserve to cast their ballots in an accessible environment.”

About The Arc of Nebraska For over 60 years, The Arc of Nebraska has provided advocacy to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. A nonprofit organization governed by a Board of Directors, The Arc has more than 1,500 members across the state.

In 2013, Beth Ostdiek Smith, CEO and Founder, saw a need and felt the deep calling within her spirit to start up the first local professional nonprofit perishable food rescue agency. So, with the images of food on the table, the face of a child and the face of the elderly, Beth started ‘Saving Grace’. The idea is simply feeding hungry bellies rather than landfills! Saving Grace’s vision reads, ‘Feed the hungry by rescuing the heartland’s bounty that would otherwise go to waste’. The concept of Saving Grace is built on some very strong core values which are collaboration, impact, integrity and community.’

Saving Grace’s food recipients include transitional living centers; on-site meal programs; afterschool programs; shelters;

senior centers; churches and health clinics. Make no mistake, Saving Grace is not a food pantry; however, it does provide perishable foods to a plethora of locations that feed families.

This year Saving Grace is celebrating 5 years of existence in the metropolitan area.

Currently, Saving Grace, has a mixture of 5 full time, 3 part time staff members and 3 refrigerated trucks. Saving Grace, a non-profit agency, is one-of-a-kind here in our community rescuing food from places such as Outback Steak House, TD Ameritrade Park and Creighton University/ Sodexo.

Saving Grace’s three refrigerated trucks have Monday- Friday routes picking up perishable food donations and delivering them expeditiously (that very same day) to non-profits. These

nonprofit partners include Stephen Center, Project Hope, and Salem’s Food Pantry. In fact, each week, Saving Grace picks up food in the morning and delivers it that very afternoon. They currently work with 42 food donors and 40 non-profit partners. The focus is to rescue healthy and hearty foods for families.

Here are the facts. One in seven people are food insecure, yet food is the largest contributor to landfill waste.

One out of five children go to bed hungry. Forty percent of food produced in the United States goes to waste. Saving Grace has rescued more than 2.6 million pounds of healthy perishable food valued at nearly $4.5 million since operations began in October 2013. Saving Grace’s accomplishments are a credit to this staff. Certainly, the food donors have a very

Page Three

important role in Saving Grace’s mission which is to ‘connect excess perishable food from local food purveyors to local nonprofits that feed our hungry while raising awareness and educating the community on food waste and hunger’.

Beth stated that it was a challenge to this start this great rewarding work. She traveled to Arizona to shadow a food rescue organization allowing her to gain insight on the logistics and operation details.

She said that this is not a faith-based agency but is faithinspired and faith led. Saving Grace has a Board of Directors and an Advisory Committee to help with its vision, mission and values. To learn more about Saving Grace, visit www. savinggracefoodrescue.org.

Connect with Saving Grace on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.

Subscribe to the Omaha Star

402-346-4041 opt. 5

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

Reaching us is.

Asthma In-Home Response

Does Your Child Have Asthma?

TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT PROJECT AIR

Project AIR helps reduce in-home hazards for kids with asthma We make home improvements to address asthma triggers We educate families about hazards in their home We empower families to make positive behavior changes

“Like” Us On Our Facebook Page

LEARN MORE AT: OMAHAHEALTHYKIDS.ORG To enroll, call us at 402.934.9700 or talk to your doctor about Project AIR

Omaha Healthy Kids Alliance

We work to ensure every child in Omaha lives in a lead-safe, Healthy Home

A re-newed focus: you.

500

New customers can qualify for a $ bonus,* and get access to our team of personal bankers who are here to help you with your banking needs.

In order to qualify, you must be a new Wells Fargo customer and: • Open a new consumer checking account with a minimum deposit of $25, and within 150 days set up and receive at least 3 consecutive monthly direct deposits of $500 or more a month, and • Open a new consumer savings account with a minimum deposit of $25, and within 10 days, deposit at least $25,000 in new money, and maintain a balance of at least $25,000 for 90 days • This limited-time offer expires November 16, 2018. Visit a participating* Wells Fargo branch and talk to a banker today!

Your bonus will be deposited into your new consumer checking account within 45 days after eligibility and qualifications are met.

Find a branch near you: wellsfargo.com/locator *Important things to know about this offer: Checking and Savings Bonus Eligibility: Only certain consumer checking accounts are eligible for this offer, including non-interest bearing checking accounts. Ask a personal banker for details. Teen Checking,SM Greenhouse by Wells Fargo, and the prepaid Wells Fargo EasyPay® Card are not eligible for this offer. All consumer savings accounts are eligible for this offer, excluding Time Accounts (CDs). This is an exclusive, non-transferable offer. A valid bonus offer code will be provided to each customer while meeting with a banker. You cannot be: a current owner on a Wells Fargo consumer checking or savings account, a Wells Fargo team member, or a recipient of a consumer checking or savings bonus in the past 12 months (limit one bonus per customer). Offer is only available to customers in the following states: AK, DC, ID, MN, NJ, NE, TX, WY. Bonus Qualifications: To receive a $500 bonus: 1. Open a new, eligible consumer checking account with a minimum opening deposit of $25 by November 16, 2018. Within 150 days of account opening, set up and receive at least three consecutive monthly qualifying direct deposits of at least $500 each month. During this time, your account balance must be at least $1.00 or more. A qualifying direct deposit is the customer’s salary, pension, Social Security, or other regular monthly income of an accumulated $500 or more, electronically deposited through the Automated Clearing House (ACH) network to this checking account by your employer, or an outside agency. A non-qualifying direct deposit is a transfer from one account to another, or deposits made at a Wells Fargo branch or ATM. AND 2. Open a new, eligible savings account with a minimum opening deposit of $25 by November 16, 2018 and within 10 days of account opening, deposit at least $25,000 in new money into either the new checking or new savings account, and maintain at least a $25,000 cumulative account(s) balance for 90 days. New money is defined as at least $25,000 in new deposits from sources outside of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., or its affiliates. Due to the new money requirement, accounts may only be opened at your local branch. Offer subject to change and may be discontinued at any time. Offer cannot be: paid without a valid U.S. Taxpayer Identification Number (W-9); combined with any other consumer deposit offer. Minimum new money deposit requirement of at least $25,000 is for this offer only and cannot be transferred to another account to qualify for any other consumer deposit offer. If you wish to take advantage of another consumer deposit offer requiring a minimum new money deposit, you will be required to do so with another new money deposit as stated in that offer’s requirements and qualifications. Those who take advantage of this Savings bonus offer cannot also take advantage of any New Dollar promotional interest rate offer during the same promotional period. Offer cannot be reproduced, purchased, sold, transferred, or traded. Bonus Payment: We will deposit the $500 bonus into your new consumer checking account within 45 days after eligibility and qualifications have been met. Checking account must remain open in order to receive the bonus payment. You are responsible for any federal, state, or local taxes due on your bonus, and we will report as income to the tax authorities if required by applicable law. Consult your tax advisor. New account open subject to approval. Checking and savings accounts are subject to monthly service fees; please refer to the Consumer Account Fee and Information Schedule (available at www.wellsfargo.com/online-banking/consumer-account-fees) or speak to a banker for more details. The consumer savings accounts eligible for this offer are interest-bearing accounts with variable interest rates. For example, Wells Fargo Way2Save® Savings pays an Annual Percentage Yield (APY) of 0.01% on all balances and requires a minimum opening deposit of $25. The APY is accurate as of 9/13/2018 and may change at any time without notice. Fees may reduce earnings. © 2018 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC.

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

Page Four

THE OMAHA STAR

PRAISE, WORSHIP, DEVOTION, OBITUARIES & INSPIRATION

Antoinette Marguerite Pittman

Deaths & Funerals

Feb. 19, 1947 - Sept. 4, 2018 Toni made her transition on Sept. 4 at 3:05 a.m. Toni was born in Omaha on Feb. 19, 1947. Her father was Arthur B. Pittman, well known as Nebraska’s first African American Veterinarian and an active member of the Omaha community.

A private celebration of Toni’s life is planned. Contributions in memory of Toni can be made to the American Cancer Society, 233 N. Michigan Ave, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60601, for research on cancers affecting the African-American population, or the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Illinois Chapter, 954 W. Washington Blvd, Suite 305, Chicago, IL 60607, for research only.

Kids Talk About God Why Does God Bless Peacemakers?

By Carey Kinsolving And Friends “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matthew 5:9).

“A peacemaker is a person who breaks up fights,” says Doug, age 10.

Is this a referee or more like a bouncer?

“If you try not to start fights but settle them, you will be thanked,” says Davis, 10.

Often the peacemaker is misunderstood, blamed and persecuted for trying to prevent strife and conflicts.

“God will make us peacemakers if we show the peace we already have,” says Stephanie, 8.

Exactly. How can we bring peace to others if our insides are churning? World peace begins with inner peace.

“A peacemaker is someone who actively pursues peace,” says Kristin, 10. “The peace comes from Jesus so that we can bring peace to others. Jesus is the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). Followers of Christ are true peacemakers.”

The work of God among those who accept Jesus as God’s son creates a new family of peacemakers that transcends race, culture and economics. But the flip side is that the members of your natural family might not be excited about your new peace with God. In fact, they might think you’re crazy.

Peacemaking is provocative. The peacemaker, “by laying bare the violence that must be overcome, frequently appears to be the fomenter of the very violence being opposed,” writes author Gene Davenport. “But this violence otherwise remains hidden or denied. Jesus himself is the prime example of this fate of peacemaking.”

When Jesus was born, shepherds in the field heard angels saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” The good news of the gospel is the only hope for harmonious relationships.

Jesus said the greatest commandment is to love God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength.

But he also said the second commandment is like the first: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

The Hebrew greeting “shalom,” which is translated as “peace,” means far more than a lack of conflict. It includes perfect welfare, serenity, prosperity and happiness. Righteous personal relationships, intimacy and fellowship are uninterrupted in an atmosphere of shalom.

Goodwill among people prevails.

Here’s an example: “One day, my friend was so mad at something,” says Wes, 11. “No one knew what it was he was mad at. I went over to him, and I said, ‘The Lord is with you, and he will settle your heart down.’ After that, he wasn’t mad the rest of the day.”

It’s hard for us to imagine a world of harmony, peace and true righteousness. Adam and Eve’s fall introduced strife, discord, chaos and division.

World history is a series of conflicts with an occasional peace interlude brought on by a spiritual awakening or enforced by a strong army.

Peacemakers have their work cut out for them.

“God loved his enemies,” says Lee, 10. “We should love our enemies.”

Some say we’re known by our enemies.

Better yet, we should be known by how we treat our enemies. A Christian’s experience of God’s presence should function as a bright light shining in a world full of darkness, agitation and confusion.

Consider this description of the first-century Jerusalem church: “So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people” (Acts 2:46-47).

Think about this: God’s peaceful presence can make you a peacemaker.

Memorize this truth: Matthew 5:9 quoted above.

Ask this question: Are you a peacemaker or an agitator?

David and Tamela Mann Reveal What Almost Broke Up Their Marriage David and Tamela Mann are focused on their current tour called “Us against the World.” But the tour is not the only thing that encompasses their latest project – a book and CD round it out.

The Fort Worth, Texas natives are not coy about their marriage journey with this special project at all. They lay it all on the line in the name of family and helping others.

“The book was inspired by our 30-year journey (of being married),” David told Lee Bailey in a recent interview at Dulan’s, a popular soul food restaurant in Los Angeles. “We’ve been saying we were going to do the book for the last five years, since our 25th anniversary. But we just felt like this was the right time.”

David continued, “We just thought it would be good to share our journey and how we made it even in an industry that’s known for divorce.

The divorce rate in the entertainment industry is well over the standard (rate in the nation). We just wanted to share how we did it. One of the ways is, she’s my priority and I’m her priority.”

Rearing their children also played a pivotal a part in the couple’s marriage. The Tyler Perry favorites have a blended family of four kids and a niece they raised when Tamela’s sister died. Two of the children were fathered by David outside of the duo’s relationship.

Tamela was very supportive with the first child.

However, when David’s second baby came along five years into the marriage, things took a turn for the worse.

“My career took off with Kirk Franklin and (the mother) came out of the woodwork that he had a daughter,” Tamela said. “I felt like I accepted one child. I can’t accept another child.”

It was this experience that earned the project its “Us against the World” name.

Looking back at that challenging period, David recalled, “I felt like I was alone. I felt like she was leaving me. She was like you got this baby mama to deal with and that baby mama to deal with, and she was like, ‘Where do I fit in? I’m going to get lost.’ I had to let her know, ‘That it’s me and you against all of this stuff. So, it’s you and me against the world.”

David’s commitment to Tamela, “Just gave me confidence that he would take care of me,” Tamela said. “I didn’t have to worry about being in the middle. It was us and then everybody else.”

As for the “Us against the World” CD, you can expect a release of inspirational songs with an R&B twist. Tamela, who has several hit gospel songs and who is the winner of several gospel music awards, admits that the project’s R&B spin took her for a loop.

“It was challenging for me because in gospel you sing a lot harder and with R&B you don’t have to sing as hard,” Tamela said. “And then the sounds are different. The words were coming together too fast. I was stepping into a whole different realm. I got more comfortable after listening to demos. It was easier to sing without the music after I got the structure of the songs down.”

With the vocals in check, Tamela and David put together a CD with themes that go beyond family life. They also tackle social themes such as weight discrimination.

“Growing up, I really didn’t have boyfriends,” Tamela lamented. “You had some people, who wanted to see you, but they only wanted to see you in the dark. I call it in the shadows. They didn’t want to bring me out to the skating rink or to the movies.”

Weight did not stop Tamela from catching her man. She met David in high school while singing in a local group and after about a year love bloomed.

“We were doing that secret lover stuff,” Tamela laughingly revealed. “We were the oldest and messing around and no one knew it. We weren’t sure because we were both talking to other people.”

Jumping in the conversation, David added, “We were really good friends and as time passed we got to know each other. You really grow.”

Well, many of the young men who treated Tamela badly, are kicking themselves now. Not only does she have the talented David by her side, but a singing and acting career that are both fire.

The “Us against the World – Mann Family Tour” continues throughout the month of November in different cities across the nation.

James Nelson Evans Sr. Mr. James Nelson Evans Sr., age 81, passed away Saturday, Oct. 20, at a local care center.

Arrangements are pending.

Arrangements by Thomas Funeral Home. *** Tobias J. Lee Mr. Tobias J. Lee, age 68, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 30, at a local hospital.

Survived by 7 siblings: Tracy Smith, Pamela Pringle, Yvonne Robinson, Teena Agee, Melvin Agee, Kurt Matthews, Eric Gasaway.

Cremation.

Arrangements by Thomas Funeral Home. *** Annette Perry Mrs. Annette Perry, age 75, passed away Thursday, Oct. 18, at a local hospital.

Memorial Service 10 a.m.

Nov. 9, at Morning Star Baptist Church, Rev. Dr. Leroy Adams, Jr, officiated.

Private Interment: Forest Lawn Cemetery.

Arrangements by Thomas Funeral Home. *** Minnie R. Tucker Mrs. Minnie R. Tucker, age

83, passed away Monday, Oct. 29, at a local care center.

Survived by sons: Clifford (Marjorie), Omaha, Curtis, Savannah, GA, John A. (Gail) Tucker, III, Fayetteville, NC; daughter: Joan Tucker, Omaha; brothers: Frank, Roy, Tom (Brenda), Robert, James Dailey, Omaha; sister: Ann Richmond, Fulton, MO. Memorial Service: 1 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 3, Mt. Nebo Baptist Church.

Cremation Arrangements by Thomas Funeral Home.

Thanksgiving Prayer Father God We praise you for your wisdom and understanding of our needs! You are so good to us! We can’t even wrap our heads around all the blessings you give us. Many of the blessings you send us, we don’t even realize nor appreciate. Today, on Thanksgiving, we want to say a few extra thank yous.

We ask that you to bless the world in which we live God, please help us do our part in sharing your Word so souls would be gathered for you. As our nation experiences evil, we pray you would shine ever brightly to those without hope. The world needs you!

Bless the country we live in. Let there be peace and love.

Bless the church, the group of believers around the world, but also the physical building where we belong. Give us passion and drive to spread your Word. Let us live in a way that shares your love, rather than give you a bad name. Lead our pastors, ministers and other church workers. Keep them safe from the attacks of Satan.

Bless our friends and acquaintances.

Bless and keep our family safe. Let our hearts find you first because when you are a prized possession, all our close relationships seem to work better. Help us love and cherish each other. Help us grow in faith together.

We are truly thankful. In the name of Jesus we pray.

Amen!

Some Gave All And All Gave Some

By Dr. William Holland Though I did not serve in the military, I am very appreciative of those who have. I’m very proud of my son who is a marine that spent time in Japan and Thailand. He has a master’s degree, served with Homeland Security and is now working as a police officer at a Veterans hospital. Neither my father nor his dad were soldiers but on my mother’s side of the family, it is quite a different story. My maternal grandfather fought in WWI and was in France.

He was injured in the war and according to my mom, he was never the same. I can barely remember him as a child but do recall a few details like when we would visit, he would greet us at the door making meow sounds like a cat and then he would always peel and slice apples and set them on the coffee table. I ate the apples and laughed at his meows. His wife, my grandmother passed away when I was even younger. They had 7 children, 3 boys, 4 girls, and my mother was the baby. Like many families during that time period, all three sons were eventually enlisted in the military. However, I thought it was even more unique how the father and each son was a soldier in a different war. The dad World War I, the oldest son was in Japan during WWII, the second son was killed in Korea, and the youngest son served in the Vietnam era. I vaguely remember two of these uncles and now realize they both suffered terribly from PTSD. My uncle who was killed in action died in 1950 eight years before I was born.

I wish I had been old enough to speak with these family members about their military experiences. My mother can recall a few memories and recently I contacted the department of military affairs and requested some of their official documents. I received a few things but much of it was difficult to read and some were unfortunately destroyed in a fire at the National Personnel Records Center Archives in 1973. My mom was very close to her brother who never returned and was convinced

that he was her mother’s favorite child. His nickname was Kenny and he worked a little part-time job before he went to the war and she remembers he would give her ten cents every Saturday to buy some candy which she really looked forward to. He would also buy his mother flowers every week and she would sit them on the kitchen table. She also remembers the day when military representatives knocked on their door and told her mother that they were sorry to inform that her son had been killed. She ran through the house wailing and screaming, “No please no,” over and over. My mother said it was a terrible time and she can recall her mother going to bed and staying there for weeks.

I currently have the privilege to volunteer as a chaplain at a veterans health care facility and it’s truly an honor to spend quality time with the many fine men and women who have served our nation’s armed forces. I teach Bible studies and lead worship services with the old hymns which they really enjoy. I’m on call whenever a resident becomes seriously ill and present with the family whenever someone passes away.

I’ve come to accept that many veterans who need constant medical care do not have family or friends to visit them. Many of the older ones have outlived everyone but it’s still sad to walk into a room and not see any pictures or greeting cards. I’ve asked the staff on numerous occasions if a certain resident has had any visitors and they cannot remember the last time someone was there. I’m also a chaplain for a small honor guard team which presents memorial services for military veterans. I open and close in prayer and have been known to sing the national anthem on occasions. I encourage you to set aside some time and visit a veteran. They would appreciate it very much and I promise, you will also be blessed beyond words. Veterans Day not only remembers those who served our country in the past but also recognizes those who continue to serve today.

We share a sincere gratitude to all who gave some and to some who gave all to preserve our freedom.

AND

THOMAS FUNERAL HOME

THE BLACK CHURCH:

TRADITION • RESPECT • DIGNITY

THE BLACK PRESS

Forest Lawn Funeral Home Cemetery & Crematory

November 16, 2018

& Cremation Services

Serving all cemeteries Pre Planning Discounts Beautiful Repast Area Available

And Both Black - Owned.

A Tradition of Caring Since 1939

7909 Mormon Bridge Rd 402-451-1000.

Free Space for Veterans www.forestlawnomaha.com

Together, The Press And the Pulpit Can Give Us Full Citizenship Immediately

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

Both Born Out of Necessity For Self-Expression

PRAISE & WORSHIP DIRECTORY

November 16, 2018

Rev. Benjamin R. Finnell

Rev. Benjamin R. Finnell Presiding Elder and Pastor Tammi Tate, Public Relations Chairperson 2842 Monroe St. Ph: (402) 502-8003 Fx: 934-8581 Sunday School....................................9:00 a.m.

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

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

ST. MARK BAPTIST CHURCH

MOUNT CALVARY COMMUNITY CHURCH

ALLEN CHAPEL A.M.E.

THE OMAHA STAR Page Five

“Jesus is the light of the world” mtcalvarycommunitychurch.org

Pastor Jarrod S. Parker 3616 Spaulding Street, Omaha, NE 68111 Phone: 402-451-0307 Email: smbcsecretary@stmarkbaptist.org

5112 Ames Avenue Omaha, NE 68104 Ph: 402-457-4216

Sunday School – Sunday 9:00 a.m.

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

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

Wednesday Food and Fellowship.................... 6:00 p.m.

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

Worship Service – Sunday 10:15 a.m.

Children’s Church (except 2nd Sunday) Holy Communion every 1st Sunday Prayer and Bible Doctrine Study Midday - 12:00 noon; Evening – 7:00 p.m.

Pastor Jarrod S. Parker

Televised Broadcast – Sundays at 6:00 p.m., KPAO Cox Channel 22 & CenturyLink Channel 89 Our Mission: “To exalt the Savior, edify saints, evangelize sinners and elevate society.”

“Where Life is for Everyone” Drs. Mar n & Lynnell Williams

MT. MORIAH MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

Founders & Lead Pastors SUNDAYS Prayer 9:00 AM Worship 10:00 AM

WEDNESDAYS Prayer 6:00 PM Worship 7:00 PM

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

www.ambassadorswc.com 402-341-1866 5417 N 103rd St. Omaha, NE 68134 Rev. Ralph Lassiter, Sr.

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

Sunday Worship ..................................10:45 a.m.

Overcomers in Christ...............Sunday 7:00 p.m.

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

BIBLE TRUTH MINISTRIES

Pastor Rordy Smith Pastor Ramona Smith

“Strengthing Families for Victorious Living” Pastor Rordy Smith Pastor Ramona Smith PO Box 1703 2402 Franklin St. Bellevue, NE 68005 402-292-9499 Web: www.BibleTruthMinistries.org Sunday School..................................9:00 a.m.

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

Wednesday Prayer & Bible Study......6:00 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.

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

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

Pastor Terry L. Arvie

“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 Sunday School………………………8:45 a.m.

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

Monday Bible Study…………………6:00 p.m.

Wednesday Bible Study….…….…….7:00 p.m.

Pastor Barbara Mitchell

Rev. Portia A. Cavitt, Pastor

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

Rev. Dr. Selwyn Q. Bachus

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.

CLAIR MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

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

PLEASANT GREEN BAPTIST CHURCH

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

“Where CHRIST is Preeminent and the Word Prevails!”

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

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Rev. Kent H. Little, Lead Pastor Services on Sundays at 8:30 am & 10:50 am

Rev. Kenneth A. Allen, Pastor

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

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.

ZION BAPTIST CHURCH

Pastor Brian Page

Thursday: Youth For Christ ............................................6:00 p.m Prayer & Bible Study ....................................7:30 p.m Rev. Kent H. Little

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

Sunday: Worship..............................................8:00 a.m.

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

Worship............................................11:00 a.m.

2215 Grant Street Omaha, NE 68110 Ph: 402-346-1502 Fax: 402-344-2720 SUNDAY Sunday Morning Worship……………9:00 A.M. Sunday School……………………...11:15 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)

Pastor Kenneth A. Allen

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

HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH Missouri Synod 2723 N. 30th Street 402-453-1583 Sunday School................................10:00 a.m.

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

YOU ARE ALWAYS WELCOME

Rev. Vitalis Anyanike

& HOLY NAME CATHOLIC CHURCH

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

JOY OF LIFE MINISTRIES COGIC Pastors Eric and Cynthia Butler 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

Pastor: Rev. Vitalis Anyanike

Pastor Eric Butler and Co-Pastor Cynthia Butler

MORNING STAR BAPTIST CHURCH “Where Christ Jesus Is the Center of Attention” Rev. Dr. Leroy E. Adams, Jr. Senior Pastor 2019 Burdette Street Omaha, NE 68110 Ph: 402-342-0018 Fx: 402-346-9300 Radio Broadcast: 101.3 fm 9:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. each Sunday Worship Service .............10:00 a.m.

Rev. Dr. Leroy E. Adams, Jr.

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

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

THE WORSHIP CENTER

Dr. Stan Rone Senior Pastor

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

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

Page Six

COMMENTARY

THE OMAHA STAR

Mentoring Matters Time for Giving Your Time

Debt and Rising Home Costs Continue to Defer Homeownership

By Charlene Crowell Do you ever get the feeling that when it comes to news about the nation’s economy you’re in a different world?

I certainly do. And what’s more, I think much of America – especially Black America – feels the same.

A decade has passed since the housing collapse. In that time, bank profits are back and continue to rise. Despite occasional trading fluctuations, the stock market remains profitable for most investors. Then there’s the low rate of unemployment that is often cited as if economic strides have included nearly everyone.

But unemployment data does not reflect the vast number of people who today are working and earning less, otherwise known as the underemployed.

People who toil at jobs that pay less than in previous years often have a work ethic that is bigger than their paycheck.

Even for those who take a second job, the extra and modest earnings seldom free them from hoping they have enough money to make it through each month.

I also think about the families who sacrificed retirement or building savings to give their children a college education.

New college graduates, their parents and sometimes grandparents are startled at the amount of debt they share and how long it will take to fully repay it.

Whatever happened to the American Dream of owning a home and giving your children a better life than you experienced as a child? Is this ‘dream’ being deferred or denied?

The stark reality is that between the rising cost of college and the equally rising costs of homeownership, much of the country that works for a living is in a financial catch-22.

This contention is borne out by an updated consumer survey that annually measures profiles of both home buyers and sellers. Each year, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) surveys consumers who purchased a primary home in the past year. For 2018, NAR used a 129-question survey of consumers who purchased a home between July 2017 and June 2018.

Summarizing results, NAR concluded that current housing trends are affected by “mounting student debt balances,” along with rising interest rates, higher home prices and larger down payments.

“With the lower end of the housing market – smaller, moderately priced homes – seeing the worst of the inventory shortage, first-time home buyers who want to enter the market are having difficulty finding a home they can afford,” said NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. “Homes were selling in a median of three weeks and multiple offers were a common occurrence, further pushing up home prices.”

Despite the financial hurdles noted by the NAR survey, there was a single glimmer of encouraging news. For the second year in a row, single female buyers are successfully

November 16, 2018

pursuing their own American Dream. While married couples comprise 63 percent of home buyers, single females represent 18 percent, purchasing homes at a median price of $189,000.

But for the rest of the home buying market, NAR found that the past year meant a median home purchase price of $250,000 required a median household income of $91,600 for a successful mortgage application. Additionally, the nation’s median home down payment now is 13 percent, or $32,500 for that $250,000 priced home.

How long does it take for families to amass $32,000 for a home down payment? Longer than most families would want to wait, I’m certain. According to new research by the Urban Institute, median wealth for Black parents is $14,400 compared to white parents at $215,000, and $35,000 for Hispanic parents.

“As the NAR report shows, the share of first-time homebuyers continues to lag far behind historical norms,” commented Mark Lindblad, a Senior Researcher with the Center for Responsible Lending (CRL). “Efforts should be directed toward pairing low-down payments with affordable and responsible mortgage products so that low-income households and borrowers of color have equal access to the opportunities that come from owning a home of one’s own.”

Lisa Rice, President and CEO of the National Fair Housing Alliance shared a similar view to that of Lindblad.

“The NAR’s survey underscores the persistent difficulty under-served communities face when trying to purchase housing,” said Rice. “With a median purchase price of $250,000 and down payment of $32,500, homeownership remains out of reach for far too many and this exacerbates stress on rental housing prices.”

The most recent figures from the Census Bureau report that the nation’s 64.4 percent homeownership rate in the third quarter of 2018 was not statistically different from that of 2017 when it tallied 63.9 percent. Geographically, homeownership in the Northeast, Midwest and South remained the most stagnant.

In stark contrast, the financial outlook for the 64 percent of Americans who already own a home brought a hefty median equity gain of $55,000 when they sold their residence over the past year. Additionally, after selling their homes, 44 percent traded up to a large home.

In other words, if you can find a way to become a homeowner, the costs incurred will likely be outweighed by the economic gains.

But making that important financial transition from renter to homeowner will become harder as mortgage interest rates climb from the historic lows of recent years. Additionally, should home inventories remain low, the likelihood of ‘supply and demand’ economics will keep driving prices higher as well.

“Now more than ever,” added Rice, “we need radical policies that will spur the development of affordable housing in all communities.”

By Debra Shaw

L.

This is the season to give. For some, at Halloween, we give candy; at Thanksgiving, we give thanks and at Christmas, we give gifts. As a mentor, the opportunity to give exists all year between the mentor and mentee just by the nature of the relationship.

The exchange in a mentor/mentee relationship is not centered around materialistic value but based on experiential worth that compounds itself over time. Mentoring others involves giving something that is precious and powerful – your time!

The following website outlines how a mentor can use his or her time wisely as a mentor, https://www. bc.edu/content/dam/files/centers/ cwf/individuals/pdf/MentorGuide. pdf. Prepare for mentoring by learning more about mentoring along with the qualities and activities of a mentor. The intent of mentoring is not to remediate weak performance, but rather to shape a career that shows promise. Remind yourself and those who ask, mentoring opens an opportunity to give back to the company and the industry by teaching the next generation of leaders and innovators. What does a mentor do?

A mentor works on two levels, both supporting the protégée in meeting essential job duties and helping the mentee envision and take steps toward the career he or she desires.

A mentor combines instruction in

professional behavior and tasks with affective support. A mentor may fulfill all or a combination of roles for the mentee.

The mentor: Advocates – Offers sponsorship, provides exposure and visibility within the organization Acquires resources – Brings critical readings, opportunities, or experiences to the attention of the protégée Acts as a role model – Offers insight on how he or she “made it” in the organization Advises – Shares institutional and professional wisdom, critiques performance, makes suggestions Coaches – Helps a protégée learn new skills and practice new behaviors Protects – Helps a protégée find new and challenging opportunities within the organization while protecting her from adverse forces and “dead-end” job assignments Supports – Listens with a sympathetic ear, explains unwritten rules, and acknowledges disappointments and triumphs.

Why Should I Mentor? It makes business sense. Mentoring also plays a powerful role in getting young employees up to speed on the organizational culture, accelerating their integration into the organization and enhancing their effectiveness.’

Mentoring students and/or young adults requires a sincere commitment that comes from the heart and the willingness to share a gift that you cannot return. Visit https:// mmpomaha.org/ to identify where you want to donate your time.

Mentoring Matters!

F.Y.I.

In order to be included in the Omaha Star, all articles and announcements must be typed in Word and must be received no later than two weeks in advance of the event. Articles may be brought to the Omaha Star Office at 2216 North 24th St. on Monday before 3:00 p.m. or e-mailed to phyllis@omahastarinc.com. Any announcements or articles 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 has been changed to Friday of each week.

The Omaha Star is not responsible for unsolicited pictures or articles submitted for publication.

Treat Yourself with a New Rewards Program

0000 0000 0000 0000 CREDIT CARDHOLDER

Earn points on all your holiday purchases with a Visa® Platinum Rewards Card from Veridian.

Our new partnership with uChoose Rewards offers you more great options to reward yourself and others.

Electronics and small appliances

Travel rebates and event tickets

Gift cards and cash back

Visit veridiancu.org/rewardscard to apply or stop by a branch and you could walk out with your card today!

T H E H I T B R O A D W AY M U S I C A L

JANUARY 16-27 Orpheum Theater

OMAHA • COUNCIL BLUFFS • PAPILLION

©Disney

TicketOmaha.com • 402.345.0606 G RO U P S ( 10 + ) 4 02 . 6 61 . 8 516

November 16, 2018 Ruffin continued from page 1

LOCAL NEWS/NATIONAL NEWS THE OMAHA STAR Page Seven NDOT Encourages Motorists to Prepare for Winter Driving

going to take it on tour and see how close to Broadway we can get.

“One of the things that stands out to me about our version is that it is timeless. The original Wiz is very much of that era, like many rewrites since. I wanted our Wiz to never have to be rewritten again. It could be from this year, or 20 years ago or 20 years from now.”

Writing musicals has become a new niche.

“I just always assumed because it’s the funniest thing to write, everybody was writing musicals. But it turns out not a lot of people are. So, yeah, I’ll do it.”

Performing in a musical may be another matter.

“I can sing just fine, but I don’t know that I’d ever be in a musical, unless I wrote one for myself.”

She honed her craft via Stages of Omaha at the Millennium Theatre. She did improv at the Shelterbelt and Blue Barn.

“We had the best time. It’s how I learned that I love improv. To be a good improviser, you just have to trust whoever you’re improvising with. If you treat them like a genius, you’ll both end up looking good.”

Encouraged to try it in Chi-Town, she caught on with Boom Chicago – where she worked with Jordan Peele, Matt Jones and Jessica Lowe – and then Second City. In between, she did a stint with Boom’s company in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

“Boom Chicago was terrifying and it was bad for a while and there was nothing I could do. I just had to keep trying to survive. I didn’t have a college degree. I didn’t have a lot of money. So there were times when I wanted to go home so bad, but I just had to stay. Thank God I did because it turned out great.”

Her parents encouraged her through the tough times.

“Because they think I’m great because they’re my parents, they were like, ‘you’re excellent and soon everyone will be able to see that.’ That was very sweet of them.”

Ironically, she met her Dutch husband, Jan, in America. The couple struggled in L.A. for a period.

She feels it only made them stronger.

“I did a lot of my own projects. I wrote musicals, made a bunch of funny videos and really did what I wanted to do. Financially, I struggled, but I also had a great time.”

An unsuccessful “SNL” audition was soon followed by “SNL” and Boom alum Seth Meyers hiring her.

“Those two things happened within days of each other,” Theresa Ruffin recalled. “Amber was very down about ‘SNL’ and over the moon when Seth called.”

Going from improv to “Late Night” has been seamless for Amber. “I think it’s been a natural progression because I have always been writing my own black point of view. “I vastly prefer a live audience to just being in front of a camera alone. Improvisers make a thousand corrections a minute every performance until they figure out what the audience likes. You can do that with scripted material, too.”

Being the designated comic who outs racism, narcissism and mendacity, she said, is “this odd space to exist in.”

“I kind of feel like if I don’t say it people might feel desperate and insane. I have to be like, okay, the president said that, and that’s cuckoo, and you do not have to accept it. It sounds silly but it feels so good to have an adult say you’re a human being and you shouldn’t be treated like this. Until you hear it from someone you do not know and have never met, it doesn’t carry the same weight.”

Theresa Ruffin loves that her daughter echoes what many black Americans feel. “She says most of the things we are already thinking.”

Every time Amber outs someone’s misbehavior, her mother said it’s cause to shout, “THAT’S OUR GIRL.” As brutally honest as Amber is on “Late Night,” she must deal with network censors, which is why she feels she was “rowdier and took more chances” doing improv.

On her way up, she met one of her biggest influences, Whoopi Goldberg. “She’s great,” Ruffin said.

Amber’s close friend since childhood, Kristina Haecke of Omaha, said watching her bestie’s breakthrough has been “awesome and great but mostly it has been completely expected.” Haecke insists fame hasn’t changed Ruffin, calling her “very down to earth” and “almost too calm about it.”

Grounded, too. “Her on-screen is her off-screen, just with a platform,” said Haecke.

Fame hasn’t changed Ruffin’s lifestyle. Yet. “Maybe someone recognizes me on the street once a week. No one cares. So when someone says, ‘Hey, Amber.’ I still think it’s pretty neat.”

Her celebrity may grow should a new TV show she’s trying to get off the ground escapes the development hell that befell her previous attempts as a producer.

“I’m not sure if I’m allowed to say it, but I’m going to because I don’t know what the rules are. I have a show called ‘Village Gazette,’ which is the third show I’ve sold to NBC. The premise of it is I am the editor of a small town newspaper in Benson, Nebraska. The owner’s nephew is a big shot reporter fallen from grace after making up a story that people find out is false. He gets fired and this is the only job he can get and he doesn’t want to be in this small town. But then he realizes we’re not so bad.”

Her “boatload of other projects” includes movie scripts she’s’ writing. She also pulls duty on Comedy Central’s “The Detroiters” and “Drunk History.”

By now, she’s mostly over having cracked the glass ceiling in late night, though she feels she did strike a blow for inclusion.

“What matters is knowing that we exist and being able to see us. What matters is that everyone knows there’s room for them – because there is.”

Follow Amber on Facebook and Twitter.

Tickets to FriendsGiving with Amber Ruffin include one drink and heavy hors d’oeuvres. The event is from Noon to 2 p.m.

Visit www.inclusive-communities.org for more details and to purchase tickets.

(Read more of Leo Adam Biga’s work at leoadambiga.com.)

Power of the Gavel:

Five Black Caucus Members Set to Chair Committees in Congress

By Lauren Victoria Burke NNPA Newswire Contributor

Along with what could be nine new members of the Congressional Black Caucus, the CBC will also likely feature five new Chairmen wielding the gavel of five committees in the U.S. House.

Rep. Maxine Waters is slated to chair the powerful House Financial Services Committee, Rep. Bobby Scott will be the Chairman of Education and the Workforce Committee, Rep. Elijah Cummings will Chair the Government Oversight Committee, Rep, Bennie Thompson will Chair Homeland Security and Texas’ Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson will Chair the committee on Science, Space and Technology.

A leadership election will be held in the coming weeks to confirm the five as Chairs of the committees they are now the senior Democrat on.

None are expected to be challenged.

The gavel being held by five African American members of Congress will give them the power to investigate and hire at least 30 new staff members each and control the policy agenda in the House.

Two members who will very likely receive media attention over the next two months in the lead-up to the start of the new Congress in January

2019 are Reps. Waters and Cummings.

Rep. Waters has been a leading critic of the Trump Administration. She has been vocal not only against Trump’s policies but has led pushback on fiscal policies that impact millions of Americans.

Rep. Cummings will have the power to investigate Trump. With the power of the gavel as chairman of the House Oversight Committee, Cummings will be able to subpoena Trump Administration officials. It will likely be a long two years as the 2020 campaign is discussed more vocally now that the 2018 campaign is over.

There is also likely to be at least nine new members of the Congressional Black Caucus. The new CBC Chairs on five House Committees will likely enjoy support of their membership on the committees they chair – as well as membership in the largest Caucus in the Congress.

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: fwilliams@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 has been changed to Friday on a bi-weekly schedule.

The Omaha Star is not responsible for unsolicited pictures or articles submitted for publication.

As the leaves fall and cold weather approaches, the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) is encouraging drivers to be prepared for winter driving conditions.

NDOT works closely with its partners at the Nebraska State Patrol, Nebraska Emergency Management Agency as well as the National Weather Service to proactively educate and inform the traveling public on ways to safeguard themselves from winter weather hazards. While NDOT monitors weather conditions, some storms are so severe, preparation can’t forestall hazardous conditions that come with extremely low temperatures, low visibility, heavy snowfall or dangerous ice.

When winter weather conditions are hazardous, NDOT may indicate that travel is not advised. Such alerts are not issued without considerable thought and weighing the effects of such advisories.

Ultimately, the reduction of travelers on the roadway during a winter event assists NDOT with timely snow and ice removal, while improving safety for all those who share the roadway.

As always, as winter storms approach, travelers are urged to be alert, be aware and check the most up-to-date travel conditions available through 511, Nebraska’s Advanced Traveler Information System. The system is available at all times via Nebraska 511’s smartphone app, online at www.511.nebraska.gov or by dialing 511 on your mobile device within the state, or if dialing from a landline or outside Nebraska at 1-800-906-9069.

After assessing the conditions, should individuals determine travel is necessary, NDOT reminds motorists to be prepared with warm clothing, water and food. If traveling a significant

distance, a winter weather survival kit stocked with additional items is advised. Additionally, travelers are advised to not drive faster than conditions allow. Surfaces will be slick under the snow and visibility may be poor. Allow plenty of time to arrive at your destination.

With snowplows out on the roads, travelers also are urged to be cautious and courteous to those operating them, making sure to: • Slow down as you approach plows. They travel slowly, usually 25 to 30 mph or less.

• Stay well behind plows to give you and them plenty of room. When traveling outside of a business or residential district, it is unlawful to follow a highway maintenance vehicle (snowplow, truck or grader) more closely than 100 feet when it is plowing snow, spreading salt or sand, or displaying a flashing amber or blue light.

• Never pass a plow on the right – snowplows are equipped with “wing plows” which extend beyond the truck itself.

• Know where plows are and actions they may be taking while they plow snow.

Further, motorists are reminded to make sure everyone in their vehicle wears a seat belt and children are in a car safety seat. They also should not use cruise control in wet or snowy weather, and they should keep a full gas tank.

For safe-driving tips and winter weather information, visit NDOT’s website, http://dot. nebraska.gov/safety/driving/winter/ As a reminder, the Nebraska State Patrol Highway Helpline is available 24 hours per day for motorists in need of assistance. Drivers can reach NSP by dialing *55 from any cell phone.

Call 911 for any emergency.

‘Healthy Food for All – A Community Food Security Plan’ A strong community depends on an accessible and affordable food system for all people – one that meets the needs of today and builds capacity to provide healthy food for generations to come.

Yet, in the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro area, nearly 101,000 people (12.5%) do not consistently know where their next meal will come from.

Even more troubling are the pockets of deep food insecurity that exist in northeast, southeast and northwest Omaha and parts of Pottawattamie County where food insecurity rates can reach as high as 48.5%.

“All of us need access to healthy, nutritious, affordable food,” said Nancy Williams, president and CEO of No More Empty Pots. “We know that when we consume more healthy food, it can lead us to live better lives.”

To address these issues, more than 70 partners from across the three county Omaha-Council Bluffs metropolitan area came together to produce “Healthy Food for All – A Community Food Security Plan for Douglas, Sarpy and Pottawattamie Counties,” which identifies four goals and multiple strategies to improve food security and health in the local community. The plan was released to the public today and can be viewed at www.unitedwaymidlands.org/foodplan.

By tackling issues from a systems-perspective, this plan creates a path forward to serve those currently experiencing food insecurity while laying the foundation to reduce food insecurity in the future.

During the twelve-month planning process that

preceded the release of the plan, United Way of the Midlands (UWM) served as a neutral facilitator to support the co-creation of a common agenda and mutually reinforcing activities. Douglas County Health Department, Food Bank for the Heartland and No More Empty Pots served as strategic co-leads, and subject matter experts from public, private and nonprofit organizations provided the strategic and thought leadership to craft the details of the plan. The USDA, Iowa West Foundation and UWM provided funding for the planning process.

In bringing people across the food system together, the planning process itself highlighted the value of creating opportunities for partners to share and plan with one another. Based on this insight, the launch of a food security collaborative is a top priority moving forward. This collaborative will continue to refine, develop, prioritize and ensure implementation of the plan’s strategies and activities.

“There is so much good and innovative work going on in our community,” said Shawna Forsberg, president and CEO of UWM. “By committing to working together to achieve common goals, our community is poised to make even greater impacts.”

The “Healthy Food for All” plan bolsters the community’s capacity to strategically invest in food supports across the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro area. As an example, UWM-funded programs provided more than 1.3 million healthy meals during UWM’s 2016-18 funding cycle.

Salvation Army Announces Tree of Lights Campaign Goal

The Salvation Army in Omaha announced the goal for the 2018 Tree of Lights Campaign during the Tree of Lights Kickoff at American National Bank on Nov. 8.

This pre-holiday annual event marks the beginning of The Salvation Army Tree of Lights Campaign, a fundraising initiative for The Salvation Army’s Human Needs Fund. This year’s fundraising goal for the campaign is $2.85 million.

The Tree of Lights Kickoff featured musical entertainment by The Salvation Army Brass Ensemble, along with Michael Lyon & the Steve Thornburg Trio. Other highlights included an appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus and their reindeer – and, of course, the illuminating of the 75-foot-tall Tree of Lights.

The Salvation Army’s red kettles will be placed at 140 locations in the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro through Dec. 24. Volunteer bell ringers can sign up online at www.registertoring.com or by calling 402898-6000. People can also give to the Tree of Lights Campaign online at www.salarmyomaha.org.

The Salvation Army’s Human Needs Fund meets the needs of the most vulnerable people in the metro through seven year-round programs focused on food, housing, youth development, material assistance, behavioral health, older adult services and anti-human trafficking. One hundred percent of every dollar raised via the Tree of Lights Campaign stays in the community. Whether you give to the red kettles or offer your time as a volunteer, your support helps The Salvation Army “Do the Most Good.” To volunteer or to make a financial gift, visit www.salarmyomaha.org.

ACLU Response to Sen. Hyde-Smith ‘Public Hanging’ Comment JACKSON, Miss. – Mississippi Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith recently made racially-charged comments during a campaign rally in Tupelo. Yesterday, standing beside and defended by Gov. Phil Bryant, she refused to clarify her comments when repeatedly asked. The senator has yet to apologize for making comments she has attempted to characterize as a joke about attending a public hanging.

Jeff Robinson, ACLU deputy legal director, and Jennifer Riley Collins, ACLU of Mississippi executive director, issued the following joint response: “Sen. Hyde-Smith should be ashamed of herself. The fact that she chooses to use such repugnant language despite the ugly history in her state speaks to her lack of concern and knowledge about the experience of people who don’t look like her. Gov. Bryant’s defense of his appointee was also reprehensible as he attempted to cast a woman’s right to her own private health care as racial genocide.

“To celebrate the chance to sit in the front row of a public hanging demonstrates a profound ignorance of the state’s institutional legacy of racism. Sen. Hyde-Smith needs to be held accountable for her words. The people of Mississippi deserve better from their elected officials and appointed officials. It would serve Sen. Hyde-Smith well to brush up on her state’s history – from slavery, to slave patrols, lynchings, black codes, Jim Crow, and all the way to modern-day mass incarceration – to fully understand the breadth of her despicable comment.”

The statement can be found online at: https://www.aclu.org/news/aclu-response-sen-hyde-smithpublic-hanging-comment

LIFE & STYLE/HEALTH & WELLNESS November 16, 2018 Here’s The Thing About Young ‘Nia & The Numbers Game’ Leads Black Girls Who Only Play Teenage Girls Toward Success With White Dolls Atlanta, GA (BlackNews.com) – After meeting hundreds of African-

Page Eight

THE OMAHA STAR

Research confirms that brown skin girls who only play with white dolls often grow up thinking that being “white” is beautiful, and that being “black” or “brown” is ugly!

And it’s the same for young girls that only play with dolls with straight hair. They often grow up believing that “straight” hair is beautiful, but “kinky” or “natural” hair is not attractive!

But there is an easy way to save young Black girls from this epidemic! Black parents can start buying their children dolls that make them proud of who they are, dolls with a beautiful brown skin tone, and kinky or natural hair – dolls that look like them!

One Black-owned company, Toys Like Me, has just released a new collection of plush toys that resemble children with brown skin. The brand was created by Dante Lee, an African American father from the Washington, DC area, who noticed that major retailers like Walmart and Target carry very few toys for children of color.

“I have an 11-year-old son,” Lee says. “And every time we go to buy toys, there is an obvious lack of diversity in the toy aisle. So, I decided to design and manufacture my own toys that children with brown skin can resonate with.”

So far, his company is off to an amazing start – averaging $200 to $300 in orders every day. His products currently include backpack dolls and emoji pillows, but he is planning to launch a series of baby dolls, Barbie-style dolls, and even action figures.

For more details and/or to purchase the toys for children you know, visit www.

ToysLikeMe.com. Be sure to use promo code “BlackKidsMatter” to get a 15% discount!

American, Latina and Asian teenage girls throughout her career, author Dr. Kela Henry was compelled to write a book for teen girls that emphasizes the importance of decisions. Told in narrative form, “Nia & The Numbers Game: A Teenager’s Guide to Education, Relationships & Sex” (published by BTH Creations LLC and Lulu) is a new user-friendly guide for adolescent girls that helps them to learn about the changes occurring in their bodies and how to best navigate the circumstances of their teenage years.

Readers follow Nia (Swahili for purpose), a typical African-American girl, on her life’s journey. From changes in her body, to the joy of first love, to the pressures to have sex and on top of all that, applying to college, the book explains to readers how everyday choices directly impacts one’s future.

Although Nia makes mistakes along the way, Dr. Henry stresses the importance in how Nia considers and thinks about her actions rather than acting impulsively.

Real experiences shape the snapshots into Nia’s life, which act as catalysts for frank discussions about important topics like STDs, pregnancy and trust. Henry follows most of the chapters with a “Let’s Talk” section, during which her professional and reassuring voice explains the full context of complex situations and provides facts, medical information and advice.

Whether seeking guidance on strict parents, relationships or furthering education, young people will find this book a comforting friend to which they can turn for information, counsel and validation. “I want my readers to understand they don’t have to compromise their core values in order to have a fulfilled life,” says Henry. “I want young girls to be excited about reading the book and about their lives and all the potential and opportunities ahead. If I can do it, they can do it! It’s about learning to push forward, no matter what.”

“Nia & the Numbers Game” by Kela Henry, MD, is available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble and BTH Creations LLC.

Good Books Café

Forever I Do

Cardi B, Chance The Rapper, And T.I. To Search For Next Hip-Hop Star

Over 250 family members and friends experienced an enchanted evening at Simply Ballroom on Nov. 2 during the heartfelt nuptials of Christa N. Brooks and Shawn M. Mayfield. The glowing bride is the youngest daughter of Gregory and Arlett Brooks with the groom being the eldest son of Michael and Sharon Mayfield, all of Omaha.

Following the 5:30 p.m. ceremony, officiated by Minister Cheryl L. Bowles, the guests celebrated the union of the junior high sweethearts at a lively reception hosted by the bride’s parents and godmother, Rocky Kelly.

Maid of Honor, Makida Brooks; Best man, Deonta’ Williams; Broom Bearer, Ka’Vant Mayfield; Ring Bearer, KaShawn Mayfield; Flower Girl, Keriona Mayfield and a total of 12 attendants were honored to serve as the wedding party. A beautiful color palette of royal blue, silver and grey created a fairy tale atmosphere throughout the venue.

The wedding coordinator was Cheryl Secret with beverages coordinated by Joyce Davis.

Hy-Vee to Provide Free A1C Screenings in November

In honor of National Diabetes Awareness Month, Hy-Vee Inc. will provide free Hemoglobin A1C screenings throughout its eight-state region during November.

The free Hemoglobin A1C screenings will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis at the Hy-Vee Healthy You Mobiles in 168 Hy-Vee store parking lots. Hy-Vee registered dietitians will conduct a simple blood test, and review the results with individuals immediately following the test.

Hemoglobin A1C is a blood test that individuals living with diabetes use to manage their blood glucose levels, and provides information about an individual’s average levels of blood glucose over a two- to threemonth period.

To find local screening dates and locations, visit https://www.hy-vee.com/corporate/news-events/newspress-releases/hyvee-to-provide-free-a1c-screeningsin-november/.

Hollywood, Calif. – Global superstars Cardi B, Chance the Rapper, and T.I. will search for the next breakout hip-hop star in Rhythm + Flow, Netflix’s first music competition show set to debut in 2019.

The series – produced by John Legend, Jeff Gaspin, Jesse Collins, Nikki Boella, Jeff Pollack, Mike Jackson and Ty Stiklorius – will bring together the biggest names in music to find fresh talent and help undiscovered hip-hop artists pursue their dreams.

Cardi B, Chance the Rapper, and T.I. will serve as the three main judges for the competition, joining forces with additional artists and industry VIPs to be announced in the coming weeks.

The multi-city competition will unfold over 10 hour-long episodes beginning in fall 2019.

Auditions will begin this fall across the United States, including the judges’ hometowns of Atlanta, Chicago and New York. In each audition city, established rappers who hail from that city will serve as guest judges to help seek out the best unsigned hip-hop artists. Learn more about how to audition at www.RhythmAndFlowAuditions.com.

For additional information, visit www.netflix.com/rhythmandflow.

Subscribe to the Omaha Star

402-346-4041 opt. 5 Health and Spirituality A Peace of My Mind

By Mark Darby, RN APRN, FNP-C Director of North Omaha Academy of Healthy Living Peace of mind can seem so far away at times.

There can be so much to do, so much to think about. We can spend our day doing this and that until we fall asleep without accomplishing anything. The blocks to peace of mind are easily handled if we don’t make it too hard on ourselves. Let’s list some of the common blocks to peace of mine and their resolution.

Fear of _____. You fill in the blank. Fear is the most powerful block to peace of mind.

We live in a culture of fear. If the culture was not enough, we create our own fears easily as we search for perfect acceptance from others.

Fear is non-specific. We fear something might happen in the future.

Ask two questions to get rid of fear. First, is my fear happening right now? Most often the fear is in the future or past making it unreal.

There is nothing happening right now. Secondly, if the fear is happening right now, is there anything I can do about it? If there is then do it.

If not, then go about something else.

When I ask this second question I usually answer negatively. Then I start some small task.

When I get my mind off the fear it either goes away or I discover what I could do to address the fear.

Cultivate hope. We have confused hope with economic aspirations in this country. We hope for a new car or new house or a better job. Hope is not about getting things it is about doing.

Hope is an action verb.

Hope operates in the here and now, minute by minute and day by day. Hope is the belief these little actions taken day by day will make a difference over time. My Aunt Hilda used to say if you hope for a cake you have to crack an egg.

She had great wisdom. Hoping for a cake and doing nothing gets you nothing Hope however, is not meaningless activity.

Hope guides our choices. Constantly every day we have choices to make between this or that. One is hopeful and the other not. How do we make the choice? I usually wait for an inspiration. Some may call it conscious. Some inner voice can guide us to what is the right action. Above all, avoid actions based on the mindless habit “I should do this.”

Lastly, hope must flow from the belief in our own inner worth. Self-worth is not based on money or prestige but acceptance and love. This may sound like meaningless drivel but don’t let the simplicity of the statement fool you.

Self-love is a gift from God and immutable, yet we deny it. If we spent half the amount of the energy believing in ourselves that we do doubting ourselves, what kind of hope would that produce?

Next month is Christmas season, we will look toward that story of hope.

World AIDS Day Is Dec. 1 There are an estimated 36.7 million people globally living with HIV. Despite the virus only being identified in 1984, more than 35 million people have died of HIV or AIDS, making it one of the most destructive pandemics in history.

World AIDS Day is an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV and show support for people living with HIV. In honor of this global health day next month, we invite you to explore the moving films below which are invaluable tools for helping to destigmatize the illness through awareness, empathy and education.

AIDS is one of the leading causes of death of African American women, and nearly half of the Americans with HIV live in the South, where the AIDS epidemic has taken root in rural communities.

“Wilhemina’s War” is an intimate story of one family’s struggle with HIV over the course of five years. Despite facing institutional and personal obstacles every step of the way, 62-yearold Wilhemina Dixon works tirelessly to combat the stigma and care for her daughter and granddaughter, both HIV-positive. This urgent documentary lays bare the intersection of poverty, race and politics with women’s health and security in the rural south, while showing determination in the face of adversity, and the triumph of the human spirit.

“With statistics continuing to indicate that African American women constitute 65% of women diagnosed with HIV … it is important to share the powerful message of Wilhemina’s War, which continues to shed light on the struggles of HIV throughout the South.” – Imara Canady, AIDS Healthcare Foundation “Wilhemina’s War” will be broadcast on Independent Lens in select cities this December. Check local listings for more details.

“Nothing Without Us” tells the inspiring story of the vital role that women have played – and continue to play – in the global fight against HIV/AIDS. From beauty parlors in Baton Rouge to the first HIV clinic in Burundi, this film looks boldly at the unaddressed dynamics that keep women around the world at highrisk for HIV, while introducing the remarkable women who have the answers to ending this 30-year old pandemic. As the history of AIDS activism is being written, women, particularly women of color, are being written out of it. This documentary restores women’s crucial role in the history and present-day activism around HIV as well as bolsters the work of women everywhere

still fighting for their lives.

“There are some movies that leave you speechless, this one left me screaming: Beautiful! Impassioned! Inspiring! Necessary!

Break the silence. See this film.” – POV Magazine “A must-see film for anyone interested in understanding what it means for women to be healthy.” – Rewire In India, where marriage is a must but AIDS carries a stigma, what are HIV-positive people to do? 72 year old Dr. Suniti Solomon, who discovered India’s first case of HIV 25 years ago, has found a way to help HIV positive patients find partners and meet societal expectations by taking on a new role: marriage matchmaker. Like other Indian matchmakers, Dr. Solomon matches by religion, education, and income; but she also matches by white blood cell counts and viral loads. “Lovesick” interweaves Dr. Solomon’s unconventional personal and professional journeys with the lives of two patients: Karthik, a reticent bachelor, and Manu who, like many women in India, was infected by her first husband. As Karthik and Manu search for love, they learn how to survive under the shadow of HIV. “With compassion, humor and hope, “Lovesick” is an intimate story about the universal desire for love.” – Doc NYC “Lovesick” hopes to give voice to the millions who live in the shadows, afraid that the revelation of their HIV status will ruin their job prospects, end their hopes for a loving relationship or shame their families.” – Times of India To place an order for either of these films, visit www.wmm.com, phone 212-925-0606 x3600 or email orders@wmm.com.

EVENTS/NATIONAL/CLASSIFIEDS THE OMAHA STAR Page Nine Young Readers Invited To Write To Favorite Authors Young readers in grades 4-12 are invited to Teachers, librarians, and parents can download write a personal letter to an author for the Letters free teaching materials on reader response and Things to do, people to see, places to go. about Literature (LAL) contest, a national reading reflective writing, along with contest details and

November 16, 2018

In The Village!

Nov. 16 – Registration deadline for the Salvation Army TurkeyFest being held on Thanksgiving Day. The effort provides free dinners to adults age 55 and older. To register, phone 402-898-6023.

Nov. 17 – Purpose Driven Advocacy Center, Inc. hosts Winter Clothes Giveaway from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. at 6401 N. 56th St. Items to be given away include clothes, outerwear, shoes and small household items. Volunteers are needed. For more info, phone 402-399-9628.

Nov. 17 – November Food Pantry Day from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Benson Baptist Church, 6319 Maple St. Must bring ID and social security cards for each member of the household.

Nov. 17-19 – Love’s Jazz & Arts Center, 2510 N. 24th St., presents the Urban Artists Collection featuring the art of Omahan Jeremiah Neal.

Nov. 19 – The Florence AARP chapter meets at Mountview Presbyterian Church, 5308 Hartman Ave. The program begins with a noon lunch followed by a speaker from The Big Garden. To RSVP, phone Gerry Goldsborough at 402-571-0971. For a ride to the meeting, phone Ruth Kruse at 402-453-4825.

Nov. 25 – After your Thanksgiving feast has settled, join Inclusive Communities for some laughs with Omaha Native Amber Ruffin!

Amber will appear at The Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St., at 1 p.m. Doors open at noon.

Ticket price includes one drink and heavy hors d’oeuvres. Purchase tickets at www.inclusivecommunities.org Nov. 28 – Be a winter hero! Donate blood at Goodwill (72nd & Ames Ave) from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Register at www.info@goodwillomaha.org.

Dec. 1 – Christmas in the Village Dec. 1-2 – The Union for Contemporary

Art, 2423 N. 24th St., hosts UNIONMADE: An Artist Market from noon - 4 p.m. Stop in and browse a wide variety of handmade art for sale from Union teaching artists, Co-Op members, Fellows, and staff. 20% of all sales will be re-invested in the Co-Op Studios, with the remainder going directly to the artists.

Dec. 2 – The Christmas tradition continues at the Holland when the Salem Baptist Church choir offers new music and holiday classics during “Joyful Noise: A Gospel Christmas.”

Performances are at 4 and 7 p.m. Tickets are available at the Holland box office.

Dec. 6 – The Union for Contemporary Art, 2423 N. 24th St., hosts a one-time only performance: Dominique Morgan - 788401 Minutes: Music From The Inside, from 6-8 p.m. Join Fellow Dominique Morgan in the Wanda D. Ewing Gallery for what is sure to be an unforgettable musical performance. Morgan will share songs of strength and redemption composed during the 788401 minutes he spent on the inside of Tecumseh State Correctional Institution. RSVP on the Union’s Facebook page.

Dec. 7-15 – Union Fellow Ashley Laverty + Kerfuffle present 6 performances of Nested Theatre for the Very Young at The Union for Contemporary Art, 2423 N. 24th St. As part of Ashley’s theatre company, Kerfuffle, Nested is created intentionally for children under 6 years old and their caregivers. Taking place in and around a 10 foot diameter, 4 foot tall nest, this theatrical “happening” will explore family, home, and separation with creative movement, live music, and community interaction. All performances are pay what you can, with proceeds going to Nebraska non-profit organizations. Seating is limited. For performance times and to reserve seats, visit eventbrite/e/nested.

For U.S. Troops, Home for the Holidays is Often Just a Wish The holiday season means family time for most Americans, but that’s not the case for many U.S. military personnel who can’t return home to eat turkey dinners, open presents, light the menorah or participate in other traditions.

It’s a situation veterans who served in decades past can identify with, as they too found themselves far from home between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, often under harrowing conditions.

For 95-year-old Art, for example, Christmas Eve 1944 was “just another day under fire” because the Battle of the Bulge was well underway.

“Several other soldiers and I were holed up in a house in Bastogne, Belgium, singing Christmas carols when we heard the drone of approaching planes,” says Art, author of the memoir A Tourist in Uniform: World War II Memories.

“Grabbing our rifles a little tighter, for all the good that would do, we held our breath and waited.”

The first plane dropped flares, lighting up the night skies. The soldiers scrambled to the cellar stairs, falling down the steps as bombs exploded and parts of the house collapsed above them.

“On Christmas morning, we discovered that the house had taken a direct hit from a 500-pound bomb that landed on the toilet, splitting it in two,” Schmitz says. “The bomb just about demolished the house, but it didn’t explode. I vowed I was going to come back to Bastogne for a peaceful Christmas.”

Today, there are about 1.3 million active military personnel, and about 200,000 of those are deployed overseas. Each holiday season, a number of organizations provide support to the troops and their families, and also accept donations from Americans who want to help. A few of those include: • Red Cross. The Red Cross has a “Holidays for Heroes” program that enables people to “give something that means something” during the holiday season. The Red Cross says it invites the public “to join their local Red Cross offices to thank and recognize members of the military, veterans and their families through a variety of activities.” Anyone interested in helping should check with their local Red Cross office to learn more.

• USO. The USO delivers holiday care packages during various holidays throughout the year. The USO reports that since the program was launched in 2011, it has distributed nearly 1,500 boxes that brought holiday cheer to more than 110,000 service members in more than 500 locations.

• Operation Gratitude. This non-profit organization sends individually addressed care packages to troops serving overseas, veterans, military families and others. Each package contains snacks, hygiene products, entertainment, and handmade items, as well as personal letters of support.

After surviving that Christmas Eve in 1944, Art recalls making it to the mess hall for a much-needed Christmas Day meal, and then being handed a copy of General Anthony C. McAuliffe’s holiday message to his troops.

In the conclusion of that message, the general wrote: “We are giving our country and our loved ones at home a worthy Christmas present and being privileged to take part in this gallant feat of arms are truly making for ourselves a Merry Christmas.”

and writing promotion program. The letter can be to any author (living or dead) from any genre – fiction or nonfiction, contemporary or classic – explaining how that author’s work changed the student’s view of the world. The 26th annual reflective writing competition is sponsored by the Library of Congress Center for the Book and presented in association with affiliate State Centers for the Book with funding provided by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation. Letters About Literature is coordinated and sponsored in Nebraska by the Nebraska Center for the Book and the Nebraska Library Commission, with support from Houchen Bindery Ltd., Humanities Nebraska, and Chapters Bookstore in Seward.

Prizes will be awarded on both the state and national levels. The Nebraska Center for the Book’s panel of judges will select the top letter writers in the state, to be honored in a proclamation-signing ceremony at the state capitol during National Library Week in April 2019. Their winning letters will be placed in the Jane Pope Geske Heritage Room of Nebraska Authors at Bennett Martin Public Library in Lincoln. Nebraska winners will receive state prizes, and then advance to the national judging.

A panel of national judges for the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress will select one National Winner per competition level (Level I for grades 4-6, Level II for grades 7-8, and Level III for grades 9-12) to receive a $2,000 cash award, to be announced in May 2019. The judges will also select one National Honor winner on each competition level to receive a $500 cash award.

information on the new online entry system, at www.read.gov/letters <http://www.read.gov/ letters>. Nebraska-specific information (including lists of Nebraska winners of past competitions) is available on the Nebraska Center for the Book website <http://centerforthebook.nebraska. gov/programs/LAL.html>. Get inspired by listening to Nebraska winners, Ashley Xiques and Sydney Kohl, read and talk about their winning letters to authors that meant something to them in their own lives, on NET Radio’s All About Books (netnebraska.org/basic-page/ radio/all-about-books <http://netnebraska.org/ basic-page/radio/all-about-books>). Submissions must be completed online by Dec. 14. For more information contact Tessa <http://nlc.nebraska. gov/scripts/mail/mail2staff.asp?Tessa%20Terry> Terry, 402-471-3434 or 800-307-2665.

The Nebraska Center for the Book is housed at the Nebraska Library Commission and brings together the state’s readers, writers, booksellers, librarians, publishers, printers, educators, and scholars to build the community of the book, supporting programs to celebrate and stimulate public interest in books, reading, and the written word. The Nebraska Center for the Book is supported by the Nebraska Library Commission.

As the state library agency, the Nebraska Library Commission is an advocate for the library and information needs of all Nebraskans. The mission of the Library Commission is statewide promotion, development, and coordination of library and information services, “bringing together people and information.”

Microsoft Scholarship Program Microsoft Scholarship Program is for students who are currently enrolled in a fouryear undergraduate bachelor’s degree program.

Students must be attending a school in North America and pursuing studies in Computer Science and related STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).

Most of the scholarships will be awarded

to female students, underrepresented minority students (African-American, Hispanic or Native American) or students with disabilities. All candidates are reviewed on the basis of their passion for STEM fields, leadership qualities and financial need. Students must have a GPA of 3.0 or above. Scholarships cover full or Microsoft continued on page 10

Business Connection

To advertise your business, please contact Phyllis Hicks.

Call 402-346-4041 Ext. 4 or email phyllis@omahastarinc.com

Attorney

Convenient Store Entertainment

100.3

Timothy Ashford

FM

Attorney at Law

Omaha NE’s FIRST and ONLY 24/7 FM Gospel Radio!

HEAR YOURSELF ON-AIR! Step 1: Call the Radio Request Line 402-819-8941 (Toll-Free 855-465-100.3) Step 2: Say “This is (your name). My favorite gospel song is (your favorite song).”

Step 3: Tune in to 100.3 FM and we’ll play YOUR VOICE when we play YOUR FAVORITE SONG!

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

Proudly Black-Owned and Operated. Lady J and LuvLuv, Founders.

For more info: www.GospelMusicOmaha.com

attorneytimothyashford@gmail.com

Entertainment Housing 55 & older

ATTENTION ATTENTION ATTENTION

ANNOUNCING A NEW AND EXCITING COMMUNITY RADIO SHOW

Martha & Preston Love

“Like” Us

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND

We are offering very LOW Rates!

unity Talk Comm rch hu C d n A

100.3 FM

ve: book li m on facesicomaha.co s u h Catc ospelmu /g k o o faceb

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

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

Insurance

Insurance John Lord, LUTCF, RHU® Agent

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

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 Authorized to Offer

1211999

State Farm, Bloomington, IL

Tree & Landscape GTL Tree and Landscape

We’re Hiring!

CORR OFFICERS - $16.74 hour plus benefits. corrections.nebraska.gov/careers

•Tree installation, maintenance & removal • Retaining walls, flower beds, & paver patio construction Over 10 years experience Fully licensed & insured.

402-880-3706

Auto • Home • Life • Health • Dental • Vision ALSO AVAILABLE Commercial Insurance Kim Robinson, M.B.A. 6311 Ames Avenue Omaha, NE 68104 402-999-8357 (office) 402-502-0253 (fax)

robinsoninsurance@omhcoxmail.com

CONTACT US: PRESTONLOVEJR@GMAIL.COM

On Facebook

Insurance

Life Insurance and Annuity Program fromNew York Life

Security Lion’s Gate Security Solutions Inc. • Advanced Firearms Training • Concealed Carry Training • Consulting • Corporate Security • Emergency Evacuation Training • First Aid/CPR/AED Training • First Responders • Private Security • Self-Defense Training

10835 Cottonwood Lane • Omaha, NE www.lionsgatesecuritysolutions.com

402-208-0030

Have you heard about the Business Connection?

To advertise your business, please contact Phyllis Hicks.

Join Today!

Call 402-346-4041 Ext. 4 or email phyllis@omahastarinc.com

Page Ten

THE OMAHA STAR

YOUTH/EDUCATION NEWS

November 16, 2018

OPS, Parents Join Forces To Boost Students’ Math Muscle Progressing students into higher math comprehension is a top focus for the Omaha Public Schools this school year. Strategies in place to move the needle include enhanced professional development opportunities for principals and teachers, research, identification of standardization of best practices currently found in classrooms across the district and most importantly, parent engagement.

As OPS officials work collaboratively to help students increase math scores, the district is encouraging parents to get involved with their kids’ academic achievement growth in Math.

Most recently, opportunities for parent-student interaction include a series of math-related engagements offered at various schools and auxiliary learning facilities including Parent Math Nights for kindergarten through 8th grade. Below are a few options OPS Curriculum and Instruction Support officials have shared regarding ways parents can help their students achieve gains in math proficiency.

How can parents maintain supportive environments for their children to advance in math?

It is critical that parents communicate a positive message about math, that anyone can learn math, and that math is all around us in the world. Math ability is not genetic, nor is it about speed. Mistakes are expected and are treated as opportunities to learn. Children should be encouraged to work on problems that are challenging so that they have opportunities to persevere and develop a growth mindset.

Jeanette Rankin Scholarship Fund Helps Low-Income Women

Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund (JRF) provides scholarships and support for low-income women ages 35 and older across the US to build better lives through post-secondary education.

87% of JRF Scholars either graduate or continue on towards completing their degrees. 75% of JRF Scholars are single mothers, setting an example to their children to earn a college degree. 55% of JRF Scholars report that without the JRF Scholarship, they would not be able to continue their education.

For more than 40 years, the Fund has been empowering women through education by honoring the legacy of an American woman of incredible spirit and determination Jeannette Rankin, the first woman to be elected to the United States Congress in 1916. Jeannette was a proponent of women’s rights and devoted her life to help women and children and stand up for social justice. When Jeannette died in 1973 at the age of 92, she bequeathed part of her Georgia estate to help mature, unemployed women workers, providing the seed money to create the Jeannette Rankin Foundation, a nonprofit scholarship fund.

Jeannette’s personal assistant, Reita Rivers, and dear friends Sue Bailey, Gail Dendy, Margaret Holt, and Heather Kleiner, established the foundation in 1976 with the $16,000 from her Watkinsville, Georgia estate. To honor Jeannette’s request to help mature, lowincome women, the foundation was created to award scholarships to women 35 or older go back to school to earn a bachelors or technical degree. Scholarships help pay for college tuition but can also be used for other living expenses such as childcare, rent, transportation etc. In 2008, the foundation decided to change its name to Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund to better reflect the organization’s mission.

The first scholarship was awarded in 1978 in the amount of $500. Since then, they have awarded $2.75 million in scholarships, providing financial aid to more than 1,000 low-income women from all cultures and backgrounds across the U.S. to help them conquer poverty and achieve their dreams of a better life.

The deadline to apply for this scholarship is usually in March, and the award amount is usually up to $2,000.

For more details and/or to apply, visit: https://rankinfoundation. org.

Grants will Fund Campus Visits for Eighth Graders Eighth grade students at several Omaha schools will experience a campus visit this school year through funding from 8th Grade Campus Visit Grants awarded by EducationQuest Foundation.

Schools that received grants are Alfonza W. Davis Middle School, All Saints Catholic School, Beveridge Magnet Middle School, King Science and Technology Magnet Center, Lewis and Clark Middle School, Millard Central Middle School, Monroe Middle School, Morton Magnet Middle School, Norris Middle School, R.M. Marrs Magnet Center, Sacred Heart School, and Student Success Program.

Through the grant program, the schools will also conduct activities with eighth graders that will help them get on the path to college.

The 8th Grade Campus Visit Grant is one of several programs EducationQuest provides to fulfill its mission of improving access to higher education in Nebraska.

“When younger students visit a college campus, they see firsthand the possibilities that college can offer, said EducationQuest Vice President Eric Drumheller. “This experience can motivate them to take steps during high school that will make college possible.”

Microsoft continued from page 9

partial tuition for one academic year.

In addition to the scholarships, Microsoft helps students financially to be able to attend technical conferences. Financial assistance covers conference registration, travel, hotel and other related expenses.

Scholarship applications are open now through Jan. 31.

The deadline for this scholarship is usually in January of each year, and the award amount varies.

For more details, visit https://careers.microsoft.com/us/en/ usscholarshipprogram.

Subscribe to the Omaha Star

402-346-4041 opt. 5

What activities can parents do with their kids at home to help improve math growth?

Parents can make math common in daily activities by making mathematical connections while cooking, playing games, shopping, buying gas, and eating out at restaurants. Much like parents incorporate reading into their daily schedule, consider making math a priority. Through these connections, parents can show by example that math is a life skill. While students need to know how to do math procedures, simple computation skills are not enough. It is equally important for students to use math to reason and make sense of realworld situations.

What is the significance of higher math comprehension for future careers?

Math skills are an essential component of success and often reflect the ability to think critically and creatively, solve problems, and bring value to the workplace and the community. Math achievement is a predictor of the likelihood of a student becoming college and career ready. According to The World Economic Forum, approximately 65% of children today will end up in careers that don’t even exist yet. We can anticipate that critical thinking and complex problem-solving skills will be necessary for success in these future careers.

At each parent math night, parents can experience what their students are currently learning in math, including applying math strategies, vocabulary and grade level expectations.

Upcoming opportunities for Parent Math nights are as follows: OPS Kindergarten through 8th grade Parent Math Nights: Two Sessions, one from 6-7 p.m. and one from 7-8 p.m.

• Jan. 15 – Beveridge Middle School • March 19 – Lewis & Clark Middle School Visit ops.org to learn more or to contact the district with questions.