OUTLOOK – NOV/DEC 2020 by OUTLOOK magazine

MID-AMERICA SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST NEWS & INSPIRATION UNION COLLEGE ANNUAL SPOTLIGHT OUTLOOKMAG.ORG

START COLLEGE With a Life Coach on Your Side P. 8

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FEATURES 4

START COLLEGE WITH A LIFE COACH ON YOUR SIDE

TUTORS HELP BOOST ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE BY 20%

BACK IN SCHOOL AT 32

FROM CONFUSION TO CALLING

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MID-AMERICA UNION CENTRAL STATES DAKOTA IOWA-MISSOURI KANSAS-NEBRASKA MINNESOTA ROCKY MOUNTAIN ADVENTHEALTH FAREWELL INFOMARKET

“I feel like everyone here wants me to succeed!” —p. 5

21 OUTLOOK (ISSN 0887-977X) November/ December 2020, Volume 41, Number 11/12. OUTLOOK is published monthly (10 months per year) by the Mid-America Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, 8307 Pine Lake Road, Lincoln, NE 68516. Printed at Pacific Press Publishing Association, Periodical postage paid at Lincoln, NE and additional offices. USPS number 006-245. Postmaster: Send all undeliverables to CFF. Free for Mid-America church members and $10 per year for subscribers. ©2017 Mid-America Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Unless otherwise credited, all images are iStock. Adventist® and Seventh-day Adventist® are registered trademarks of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. CONTACT us by email: info@maucsda.org or phone: 402.484.3000.

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ONLINE MEASURING SUCCESS

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NEWS AND INSPIRATION

This edition of OUTLOOK magazine highlights the value of the positive happenings in the Student Success Center located on the campus of Union College. The journey toward being successful is filled with minisuccesses along the way involving many people who make meaningful contributions to one’s life.

President Gary Thurber Secretary Gil F. Webb Treasurer Troy Peoples Church Ministries Roger Wade Communication Brenda Dickerson Education LouAnn Howard Hispanic Ministries Roberto Correa Human Resources Raylene Jones Ministerial Mic Thurber Religious Liberty Darrel Huenergardt Women’s Ministries Nancy Buxton midamericaadventist.org

Booker T. Washington once said, “I have learned OUTLOOK STAFF that success in life is to be measured not so much Editor: by the position that one has reached in life as by the Brenda Dickerson Digital Media Manager: obstacles he has overcome while trying to succeed.” Hugh Davis How Are You Doing? outlookmag.org/tuesdaytalkmental-health-checklist

Are Websites Still Relevant in Ministry? outlookmag.org/ websiterelevantkl

In Mark 2:3-4 we read about four men carrying to Jesus a paralyzed man. Since they could not reach Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof and lowered the mat the man was lying on. They were successful in their bold plan, and the outcome was greater than anticipated. As you read these stories of student success, my hope is you will be enlightened, engaged and inspired toward greater successes in your own life.

Design/Layout: Hallock Writing & Design brennanhallock.com CONFERENCE NEWS EDITORS Central States Brittany Winkfield communications@ central-states.org 913.371.1071 central-states.org Dakota Jodi Dossenko j.dossenko@gmail.com 701.751.6177 dakotaadventist.org

Gil F. Webb is vice-chair of the Union College Board of Trustees

ON THE COVER

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Jehiel Exil has found all the tools he needs for college life through Union’s Student Success Center. More on p. 4 Photo by Scott Cushman

Iowa-Missouri Randy Harmdierks rharmdierks@imsda.org 515.223.1197 imsda.org Kansas-Nebraska Stephanie Gottfried sgottfried@ks-ne.org 785.478.4726 ks-ne.org Minnesota Savannah Carlson scarlson@mnsda.com 763.424.8923 mnsda.com Rocky Mountain Rajmund Dabrowski rayd@rmcsda.org 303.733.3771 rmcsda.org UNION COLLEGE Ryan Teller ryteller@ucollege.edu 402.486.2538 ucollege.edu

Scott Cushman/Union College

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START COLLEGE WITH A LIFE COACH ON YOUR SIDE Jehiel Exil, a freshman from Florida, tried out a couple of other universities before deciding to make the trip north to Union College. Months before he arrived on campus, Exil and his family had an inside source for all their questions.

nion’s newly expanded Student Success Center is now pairing every incoming freshman with a dedicated life coach for their first year to help answer questions, identify barriers to success, and work through them. Exil’s life coach, Angela Washington, was in touch with the family, helping them prepare for a successful first year at Union College. “She was helpful even before I got to Nebraska,” said Exil. Washington communicated with the whole family, answering questions,

easing their concerns and talking through the logistics of his first year. When Exil arrived on campus in August, Washington was one of the first people he spoke to. She was a familiar voice and a trusted source of help. The Student Success Center has five full-time life coaches this year, thanks to a $2.1 million grant awarded to Union’s Student Success initiative last fall. The certified coaches will help students transition successfully into college life, whatever that entails. “It is a big stress reliever

EVERY FRESHMAN GETS A LIFE COACH Jehiel Exil discovered that his life coach was his person at Union—she answered his family’s questions before he arrived on campus, she helped him set up his academic plan and she connected him with the tools he needed to succeed in college.

knowing that there is somebody you can go to for any advice. At other colleges, it’s just you, trying to figure out the best solution. It makes it a lot easier not having a bunch of baggage to carry around while you are trying to go to school,” said Exil. The coaching partnership is already paying off. “He has done a great job of discovering strategies and action steps, and then holds himself accountable because he wants to show me, ‘I did it!’” said Washington. “I’m his person. He knows I’m going to hold him accountable, but also hold him in grace. He knows that anything I challenge him on is coming from the desire to see him succeed.” Life coaching includes strategies for logistical issues, academic support, social interaction and so much more. “Academically, she has given me all the tools I need to succeed,” said Exil. “We are working on a time

management schedule too, especially since I’m trying out for the basketball team.” Washington recently asked Exil about the differences at Union, versus the public universities he attended in years past. His answer: “You know what, Miss A? I feel like everyone here wants me to succeed! It’s not like I’m just one out of 50 students in their class. I am ONE! I feel valued here.” “That really spoke to me,” said Washington. “That reassured me that we are doing exactly what our mission is here at Union College.” Carrie Purkeypile is a Union College graduate and freelance writer based in Sacramento, California.

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Tutoring supports you through the tough courses For Madison Kamarad, having access to one-on-one tutors gave her the boost she needed to grasp the business classes that will help her stay on track for her career goal to work in global development. Union offers one-on-one tutors for almost any class and embedded tutors in a variety of general education classes.

Caleb Haakenson

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Caleb Haakenson

TUTORS HELP BOOST ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

BY 20% After meeting with tutors one-on-one for two challenging classes—microeconomics and international relations—Madison Kamarad’s test scores went up as high as 20 percent. Tutoring, made available through Union’s Student Success Center, provided her with the tools to tackle these tough classes.

nitially, Kamarad pursued tutoring to be comfortable with the material presented in class. Majoring in international rescue and relief, she took the opportunity to focus her studies toward global development. As a result, she needed to take higher-level business classes in which she didn’t understand the material well. “I knew I could succeed,” she said. “I just needed to learn from people who know more.” PRIVATE TUTORING Throughout the semester, Kamarad met with her private tutors once a week for a couple of hours. Before tests, she would sit with them several times until confident. Her tutors broke down difficult sections and dug deeper into the material. “They worked with me,” she said. “I felt encouraged to do my absolute best.” Each student at Union can request one-on-one tutors for any class at no cost. After the Student Success team took over the one-onone tutoring program in 2018, requests increased by 108 percent. TUTORS EMBEDDED IN TOUGH COURSES The college also embeds tutors in challenging gener-

al requirement courses such as College Algebra, Statistics and Writing for General Audiences. Embedded tutors offer group tutoring sessions each week for a couple of hours for students to receive assistance. Since starting the embedded tutoring program in fall 2018, some courses improved pass rates by more than 15 percent. “Tutoring is helpful in many ways,” said Taryn Rouse, Union’s executive director for Student Success. “Students learn reaching out for help is okay. They find different methods to enjoy learning, discover how to study better and have that accountability through a peer.” As one of the many tools used by the Student Success team for supporting students, tutoring is a valuable resource students can use to better understand material so they successfully find and live out their God-given calling. The tutors say they are benefiting in ways beyond just having a job. Some say reviewing the material themselves has helped them solidify the lessons in their minds as well, and they feel a great sense of accomplishment from helping others. “Many students already help each other and this creates

another job opportunity for those who’ve already taken the course and excelled,” said Rouse. AN IMPROVED EXPERIENCE While nervous to reach out at first, Kamarad decided to pursue tutoring when she realized the program could encourage her to understand the material well and overcome testing anxiety. “Tutoring took away the stigma of asking for help. I realized it wasn’t a bad thing and they could push me to do better,” she said. After seeing the difference in her scores, and her confidence, she knew the extra effort was worth it. “I was so encouraged seeing that I could succeed and understand material valuable to my future career,” she said.

“Tutoring boosted my outlook on my education.”

Emily Roque Cisneros is a Union College graduate and freelance writer based in Michigan.

Courtesy Union College

TUTORING SUPPORTS YOU THROUGH THE TOUGH COURSES For Madison Kamarad, having access to one-on-one tutors gave her the boost she needed to grasp the business classes that will help her stay on track for her career goal to work in global development. Union offers one-on-one tutors for almost any class and embedded tutors in a variety of general education classes.

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Scott Cushman/Union College

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BACK IN SCHOOL AT 32 LIFE COACHING PROVIDED THE CONFIDENCE FOR LIFE CHANGE Kayla Kelly had it all figured out. Until she didn’t. She’d been working with adults with intellectual disabilities when she found herself at a critical junction in her career and life.

“I

have a knack for caring for people,” she said. “I’m good at adjusting the environment for them and helping with accommodations, and I truly love it—I knew I wanted to go a step further.” Kelly applied for jobs, but she wasn’t getting calls back. “That was very strange,” she said, “I’ve never not gotten a call back. So I prayed about it and decided to take a career test online.” When Kelly learned about Union College’s Occupational Therapy Assistant Program, she made the decision to go back to college. It was and wasn’t an easy choice. She wanted a fresh start, and the degree fit her perfectly, but returning to school was daunting. “I have full-time responsibilities and full-time bills,” she said. “I knew college would be more difficult at 32 than it was at 18. But I applied anyway.” As soon as her acceptance letter arrived, so did the job offers—she got return calls for all of the positions she’d wanted. Instead, she took a chance on herself and enrolled at Union despite

her uncertainty. “I was looking for reasons to bail out because I didn’t see any true path for me to do it successfully,” she said. “But I have been absolutely blessed to have Taryn Rouse as my life coach.” Union’s Student Success Center provides coaching, tutoring and other assistance for incoming students. “Kayla’s story inspired me,” said Rouse. “She’s coming back into a different world, and I was happy to be there to balance her adult life with college. Her needs were a little different, but we were able to figure out a plan even though classes are set at specific times that don’t always work with adult work schedules.” They made Kelly’s schedule work, and Rouse signed Kelly up for tutoring so she wouldn’t feel alone academically. Kelly says the Student Success team has made all the difference for her. “Before I knew what I needed, Taryn alleviated my fears by providing a plethora of resources. I feel extremely supported. I don’t think I could have gone in with as much confidence

LIFE COACHING SETS YOU UP TO SUCCEED For Kayla Kelly, this meant giving her the confidence and resources to enroll in Union’s occupational therapy assistant program even while facing “adult” responsibilities and schedules. At Union, every freshman works with a life coach for their first year at college.

as I did if I hadn’t had people setting me up to succeed from the first day. Union transformed my experience before I even started.” “It is scary going back to college as an adult, and there’s a lot of stigma around starting something new,” said Kelly. “But if God is calling me to do it, He will absolutely provide a way. I believe He did that with Taryn, the Student Success team, and Union College. It’s never too late to start something new.” Lauren Bongard Schwarz is a Union College graduate and freelance writer based in Bozeman, Montana.

Scott Cushman/Union College

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FROM CONFUSION TO CALLING CAREER COACHES HELP STUDENTS FIND THE RIGHT CAREER PATH

Sometimes we need someone to remind us who we were before the world tried to convince us who we should be. To give us permission to dream. To show us a practical path to fulfill those dreams. This is the kind of guidance Hannah Johnson, a junior elementary education major at Union College, experienced at Union’s Student Success Center.

he started college as a business major. “My whole family is in business,” Hannah explained. “Both my brothers are accountants and my mom is an executive at AdventHealth.” But Hannah was not satisfied with simply fulfilling a family legacy. She wanted a job where her passions and skills came together to fill a need in the world. So she reached out to the staff at the Student Success Center who came alongside her and helped her envision her future. The team provided guidance in the form of assessments and dialogue. “I was encouraged to take the Focus 2 assessment the Student Success Center offers, which was useful in exploring my personality, passions, interests and skills. Then there was a lot of discussion,” she continued. “The staff at the Student Success Center are really good at listening. Trina Cress, the Career Center

advising coordinator, asked me what I wanted to do when I was little—something I had fallen away from that is an innate talent or interest, something that got lost in the jumble of growing up and trying to fit into other people’s expectations.” That’s when the answer came to Hannah. “I would line up my teddy bears and teach them lessons,” she remembered. She explains how the Student Success team directed her toward opportunities like internships and volunteering, “I was encouraged to do an internship to see what it’s like in business, which was extremely valuable. I realized it was not for me. I probably would have stayed in business if I didn’t have that real-world experience,” she said. “They helped me find a volunteer opportunity as a reading tutor at City Impact,” Hannah shared. “We went into schools and did one-onone tutoring with the kids.

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We used the same curriculum Lincoln Public Schools uses. It was a valuable experience and great exposure to the curriculum as well as their teaching methods.” After careful consideration, Hannah changed her major with confidence. “I decided elementary education was what I wanted to pursue,” she said. “And I love it! I remember the first day I walked into classroom observations and I realized this was exactly what I wanted to do with my life. Everything was confirmed.” Discovering where we belong is often a lifelong challenge, and finding

trustworthy guides is a gift. Union understands this is a many-faceted puzzle and they bring all the elements together in one place to help every student succeed. For students like Hannah, Union College’s Student Success team are ready to offer not only career guidance, but also the skills and tools needed to successfully navigate the transition from college to calling. Trena Reed is a Union College graduate and freelance writer based in Lincoln, Nebraska.

UNION HELPS STUDENTS DISCOVER THEIR CALLING For Hannah Johnson, this meant taking career assessments and trying out internships to rediscover her passion to be a teacher. Union College’s Student Success Center provides many resources to help students find their true calling in life and pursue that career choice.

Scott Cushman/Union College

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MID-AMERICA UNION NEWS

Gil Webb to Retire at End of Year astor Gil F. Webb, who has served as vice president of administration for the Mid-America Union Conference since December 2012, will be retiring on Dec. 31, 2020. Webb previously served in the Central States Conference as ministerial director and assistant to the president. He also pastored the Linwood Boulevard Temple in Kansas City, Missouri. A native of San Francisco, Webb graduated from Golden Gate Academy and attended Oakwood College (now University). After earning a degree in theology he entered pastoral ministry in October 1976. Webb and his wife Pat have served all of their 44 years of ministry in the MidAmerica Union, pastoring in 14 churches in five states across Mid-America—Iowa, Colorado, Nebraska, Kansas and Missouri. Webb has also been a department director for youth, health and temperance, education and stewardship. Wise, hardworking, compassionate Brian Mungandi, vice president of administration for the Minnesota Conference, first met Elder Webb when Mungandi was a volunteer pastor in the Central States Conference. “He was an amazing leader,” says Mungandi. “I will never

forget a little act of kindness he showed me. I did not have an ordination gown and, noticing that, he brought two and shared one with me.” Mungandi states that Webb has been “an amazing example for me and our team of conference secretaries,” adding that his dedication, humble spirit and hard work have been truly inspiring. “When I met Elder Gil Webb 20 years ago in Kansas City he was serving as the youth director for the Central States Conference. I didn’t know that I would need his spirit of humility and grace to help me become the man I am today,” says Cryston Josiah, who is currently the vice president of administration for the Central States Conference. “He has been a mentor and friend to me and my family throughout my ministry and will be sorely missed in denominational leadership. On behalf of my wife Karen and myself, we wish him and Pat a beautiful retirement as they ride (or sail) into the sunset!” G. Alexander Bryant, president of the North American Division, has known Webb for over 40 years and refers to him as a dear friend and true man of God. “He and I worked most of our ministerial years in the Central States Conference together,” says Bryant. “Early in my ministry

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Hugh Davis

Gil was responsible at camp meeting time to ‘whip’ the young ministerial interns into shape, of which I was one. He would get us up early in the morning to empty trash, cut grass, put up tents, unclog toilets and whatever else was needed. We would work 12-hour days in the heat and blazing sun of Kansas. Then, just at the moment we were ready to complain that he was working us too hard, he would bring us soda and pizza—his act of kindness and heart of compassion made us work even harder. Elder Gil Webb has always had this rare combination of gifts: wise, hardworking and yet compassionate.”

Faithful friend and man of God “Gil is known everywhere as a person of great character. He has been a joy to work with because of his creativity, skill and love for people,” says Gary Thurber, president of the Mid-America Union Conference. “He will be missed greatly. I wish him and Pat only the very best as they begin the next leg of their journey together.” Troy Peoples, vice president of finance for the MidAmerica Union Conference, considers Webb a trusted friend and says it’s been a joy to serve with him during the last eight years. “Gil has such diverse interests and

MID-AMERICA UNION NEWS

knowledge, and has brought a pastoral heart to how we face issues. I will miss him greatly,” adds Peoples. As Webb reflects on his many years of ministry, he says it has been a privilege to work and serve with a group of individuals in the Mid-America Union “who contributed, perhaps unwittingly, to my growth as a person and as a Christian. Their dedication, commitment and professionalism in getting the task done is a great thing.” Brenda Dickerson is communication director for the Mid-America Union Conference.

Words of Appreciation from Pastor Gil Webb The process of selecting a new vice president for administration is underway. Watch for an update in myOUTLOOK enews. Sign up to receive this free weekly enewsletter at bit. ly/myOUTLOOK.

I want to give a word of appreciation to the local conference vice presidents for administration. We have worked together, combing through policies, constitutions and bylaws along with constituency session schedules. The dialogue and exchanges were helpful and meaningful. Pennie Marshall and Raylene Jones, I thank you both for your dedication, work ethic and willingness while working with me as my administrative assistants. You prepared agendas, edited and organized minutes, made flight and lodging arrangements, reminded me of things I needed to get done, prepared and entered data—all of which was a great asset. In addition, I am grateful to those former co-administrators of MAUC when I first joined the team (Tom Lemon, president, and Elaine Hagele, vice president for finance) for contributing to the process of me learning my new responsibilities in ministry. To my current fellow administrators (Gary Thurber, president, and Troy Peoples, vice president for finance), I am very appreciative for the welcoming of my contribution to our many conversations over the years, and the experience and exposure as we traveled across this vast union territory for executive committee meetings and constituency sessions.

Kevin Hosley

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CENTRAL STATES CONFERENCE

Everyone Counts, Everyone Matters CJC hosts annual convention virtually

n Sept. 25-26 the Conscience and Justice Council held its annual convention virtually, with the theme of Everyone Counts, Everyone Matters. The CJC (which is comprised of Public Affairs and Religious Liberty directors from the nine regional conferences, representatives from various union PARL directors, our West Coast unions, Oakwood University, Andrews University, Loma Linda University, and the North American Division) looked to engage and edify the online audience in the following areas: the Christian race, discipleship, mental health, religious liberty, social justice through the lens of our youth and young adults, and faith and community. Dr. Willie Hucks, professor at Andrews University Theological Seminary, began our first night by dealing with the question, “Can racism and discipleship coexist?” The panel discussion that followed included university professors and pastors, who drilled down on the concept

that because of God’s grace He allows His disciples to grow into the men and women He desires them to become. Then Dr. G. Alexander Bryant, former Central States Conference president and current NAD president, closed out the evening with a riveting message on Matt. 25:31-46, emphasizing that how we treat the least of these—those who are hungry, thirsty, sick, imprisoned, marginalized, oppressed, downtrodden—is how we treat Him.

religious liberty and religious freedoms are inextricably connected to speaking up and speaking out on issues of injustice and inequality. Dr. Carlton Byrd, speaker/ director for Breath of Life ministries, wrapped up the Sabbath morning program by highlighting how Jesus had to address the teachers of the law and the Pharisees who would tithe their herbs, yet neglect the more important aspects of the law: justice, mercy and faith. Byrd pointed out that we must all be mindful of the A mighty flood of justice struggle many people of faith The Sabbath morning panel sometimes have between their led by Dr. Marissa Leslie, sys- religion and their relationship tem medical director of psychi- with God and others. atry for Adventist Health Care, God Himself says it this way: addressed the topic of mental “I want to see a mighty flood of health and social justice. These justice, and an endless river of mental health experts exposed righteous living” (Amos 5:24). the weight of racism on the Living Christ's method psyche, the fatigue it causes on those who are affected by Carmela Monk-Crawford, it, and how we can help our Esq., editor for Message brothers and sisters cope and Magazine, led the Sabbath overcome it. afternoon panel discussion Immediately following focusing on how youth and that, Liberty magazine editor young adults can be ambassaLincoln Steed shared how dors for Christ through social

justice initiatives. The last program on Sabbath evening, facilitated by Pastor Jerome Hurst, PARL director for the Allegheny West Conference, showcased a panel of community leaders discussing how to love our neighbors. So many times we hear the quote from our prophetess Ellen White about how only the method of Christ will bring true success: mingling, meeting people where they are, ministering to their needs, then inviting them to follow Christ. Now God is calling us not just to quote it, but to live it. Pastor Danielle Brown from Church Ministries Cathedral International concluded the convention with a powerful message from Isa. 58:1. Those who attended were greatly inspired and energized to brighten the corner, wherever we are. We sincerely want to thank Edward Woods III, chairman of the CJC and PARL director of the Lake Region Conference, for his leadership of the CJC team and the planning and execution of such a wonderful, Spirit-filled virtual convention. Pastor Cryston Josiah serves as vice president of administration and Public Affairs and Religious Liberty director for the Central States Conference.

Find the YouTube video links of this convention on central-states.org.

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CENTRAL STATES CONFERENCE

Church Members Give Free Food, Winter Clothes to Derecho Survivors Photos Courtesy Central States Conference

ACS is “doing what we do best”

Volunteers from multiple churches came together to provide free food, clothing and cleaning supplies to families in need after the derecho that hit Cedar Rapids, Iowa, damaged their homes last August.

group of church members from Waterloo, Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport and St. Louis partnered through their Adventist Community Services teams to provide additional help last October for those hardest hit by the unusual derecho that struck eastern Iowa on Aug. 10. Over 250 residents received free food, clothing, hygiene and cleaning supplies thanks to the volunteers working with ACS. In addition, every child received a new winter coat and more volunteers went door-to-door at the Westdale apartment complex distributing boxes of hygiene and cleaning products.

ACS director for Central States Conference Pastor Keith Hackle said, “When we arrived in Cedar Rapids we knew we had followed God to the right place ... and we set up right in front of one of the houses that reminded residents of the tragedy that had occurred. We wanted

to transform that spot; we wanted to create a good memory on that corner!” Hackle expressed thanks to the conference administration, his colleagues and their teams of amazing volunteers who traveled from near and far, and everyone who contributed through

donations—financially and by their prayers. “God was glorified and the community was edified!” exclaimed Hackle. CSC president Roger Bernard stated that he was proud of Hackle and the local pastors who coordinated the project. “It’s a job well done!” concluded Bernard. Hackle emphasized the fact that this project was only possible due to collaboration among ACS groups across various conferences in the Mid-America Union. Cryston Josiah, vice president of administration for the Central States Conference, with Keith Hackle, pastor of the Agape Church in University City, Missouri

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DAKOTA CONFERENCE

From God "Hole" to God "Whole"

arie Pflugrad has experienced trauma, heartache and addiction. After bouts with anxiety and depression, she sought out a certified EMDR therapist. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy helps treat individuals for post-traumatic stress disorder. Through EMDR therapy, Marie’s repressed memories came to light, which allowed her to work through them and find hope. It allowed her to heal, forgive and move on. And she felt called to turn that pain into a ministry. A pastor’s wife and retired schoolteacher raised in the mountains of Colorado, Pflugrad has been on a journey of healing and recovery, which inspired her to write

a biography. When finished, she felt called to write a children’s book to help them recognize they have a means to protect themselves; they have a voice. The book adds awareness of the epidemic of childhood sexual abuse and is meant to be used as a preventative tool. Pflugrad says, “The shame that is connected to a child who trusts someone and is lured into doing or allowing someone to do something to them comes back on the child. They tend to feel guilt for it. They feel as if it was their fault—that they caused this bad thing to happen. Children need to know that it is okay to listen to the warning signs going off in their minds; to trust that not all things that spark their curiosity are good

Photos: Jodi Dossenko

Marie Pflugrad assists her husband Terry in pastoring the Richardton and Beulah church district in North Dakota.

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for them, but in fact can be very harmful.” While “stranger danger” has been taught and most children are aware of what to do in the event of an attempted abduction by strangers, there is not a lot of awareness about the abuses that take place by those we know. Pflugrad’s goal is to make this book available to all people and organizations who spend time with children. She wants children to learn “luring” signs and to listen to their inner voice. COVID-19 and child abuse COVID-19 has shut down many corners of the world. Because of need, desperation and inability to go to schools or trusted daycare facilities, children are being left in environments parents normally would not use. There are concerns over reported abuse cases rising during the virus, which makes the publishing of this book timely. “While child molestation is nothing new, it is reaching the point that awareness and action need to meet. Cautious steps must be taken to protect our children, so they don’t have to go down the path that I did,” says Pflugrad. Her goal is not to make children distrustful or cause unmerited suspicion; however, parents need to ask more specific questions when leaving their children in another’s care. “The devil has a way of trying to destroy the lives of children,

and this was a catalyst for writing these two books,” says Pflugrad. “First, I needed to get to the root of my own issues and find healing from the repressed trauma I dealt with from my own childhood sexual abuse. Then, as an educator my desire to bring this epidemic to the surface sparked the children’s book You Have a Voice, which can be seen as a companion book to the first.” Pflugrad was asked to be a part of the 2020 Ministry Expo at the NAD’s CALLED Pastors’ Family Convention and display her books in Lexington earlier this year. Due to the pandemic, the CALLED Convention was postponed, as well as other educator conventions where she had hoped to participate. Her books will soon be available in Adventist Book Centers and AdventSource. Jodi Dossenko is communication director for the Dakota Conference.

Visit Marie Pflugrad's website for more information and educational resources: youhaveavoice.org. She is passionate to share her message of hope and is available for speaking engagements. “My God ‘hole’ has been filled. I am now God ‘whole,’” she says.

DAKOTA CONFERENCE

Union College Graduate Accepts Pastoral Position in the Dakotas

arveen Gentillon grew up in a military family. Following high school he decided to attend a military college, but during the first semester he questioned his choice. It was difficult to leave the school he worked so hard to attend, but ultimately Gentillon moved home. Before long, he found himself giving Bible studies to secular friends. Then one night his parents asked what he was going to do with his life. “I felt the Holy Spirit come down upon me and I said, ‘I’m gonna be a pastor.’” The next chapter of Gentillon’s life began at Union College. “It was an amazing campus filled with happy faces, and I was able to make a lot of friends,” he recalls. “But I still found myself struggling spiritually.” He faced daily battles between pride and weakness. Two years into the program, he accepted an internship to become a youth pastor in Hawaii. That year proved to be transformative. Gentillon learned the truth of the gospel, his identity in Christ and how he should treat his brothers and sisters. Following that year of ministry he returned to Union to finish his theology degree. Near the end of his senior year, conference summer camp directors visited campus to

recruit camp staff. Gentillon determined that he would work for the summer camp of whatever conference hired him, but no calls came. Then he happened to meet youth directors Ricky and Brooke Melendez. It was not a discussion about camp, just a friendly conversation. A week later he was offered a summer job in the Dakota Conference. While Gentillon took a week to pray about the decision, he received two other job offers; the first promised potential networking, the second promised less work for better money. “I asked God to guide me to make the right decision, and I knew almost immediately He wanted me in the Dakotas. Something about the ministry there reminded me of the transforming experience I had in Hawaii,” says Gentillon. Several months went by and COVID-19 hit. Dakota camp directors were forced to reduce the size of their staff due to the virus. Gentillon thanked God for the opportunity and trusted he would be given another. Later that same month he received a tip from a pastor friend to call the Dakota Conference president. After a phone call, a long drive and a pleasant interview, Gentillon found

Marveen Gentillon is the associate pastor in the Rapid City, Hermosa and Spearfish church district in South Dakota. himself preaching in the experience ministry happenRapid City Church. He was ing in the Black Hills.” also able to join the team Jodi Dossenko, Dakota Conferin time for camp meeting, ence communication director, which gave him the opporwith Marveen Gentillon tunity to meet the rest of the pastoral staff. “God brought me to Union College, Hawaii and now the Dakotas,” says Gentillon. “I am extremely excited to

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NOV/DEC 2020 17

IOWA-MISSOURI CONFERENCE

The Fit Man and the Scapegoat

The roles of humanity and the church in the last days

lder Dean Coridan and I are greatly troubled by some teachings we recently learned are being promoted in our conference regarding the “fit man” who leads the scapegoat into the wilderness at the end of the prophetic Day of Atonement. I feel convicted to address it in hopes that we will stay focused and reliant on Christ and not on ourselves during these final days of earth’s history. It is being taught that the “fit man” is a final generation of humans who will lead Satan into the wilderness at the end of time and vindicate God’s law by living a life of perfect obedience. Make no mistake, if this were true then this group— not Christ—becomes the final factor or redeemer in the plan of salvation. Friends, this is as anti-Christ as a human priesthood that takes the place of our Savior in His mediatory

in the plan of salvation. Humanity’s only role in this heaven-born effort is to accept and trust in Jesus to save us by grace through faith in Him alone. Never does our obedience play a part in reconciling us back to God. Christ alone has reconciled us back to God, and He alone will put away Satan and sin forever. Man’s obedience can never accomplish what Christ’s perfect obedience has already accomplished for us through work of redemption. Christ His life, death, resurrection alone deals with Satan, and and mediation. Christ alone vindicates God Christ’s work in the through His life, death, Sanctuary today, while resurrection and mediation. seated at the right hand of God’s redemptive plan and the Father, is to be inviting the ministry of Christ in it and pleading with us with reveals God’s love and grace outstretched arms to come on behalf of mankind and to Him/Them in surrender answers all arguments against and faith. That’s the real Him and His government. battle we fight. It’s the fight “The history of the great of faith: to keep our eyes conflict between good and and faith on the Lamb— evil, from the time it first The Fit Man, the Second began in heaven to the final Adam—and not ourselves. overthrow of rebellion and the total eradication of sin, is The church’s role in the also a demonstration of God’s last days unchanging love” (Patriarchs and Prophets p. 33). The church, the body of believers, has a role in the Humanity’s role in the final days while probation last days lasts. But it isn’t vindicating God. Rather, it is expressed in Christ is depicted as both the following statement: the Lamb and the Priest in “The church is God’s the Sanctuary imagery, sym- appointed agency for the bols and services. Therefore, salvation of men. It was He alone can be the Fit Man organized for service, and its in this final phase of ministry mission is to carry the gospel

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to the world. From the beginning it has been God’s plan that through His church shall be reflected to the world His fullness and His sufficiency. The members of the church, those whom He has called out of darkness into His marvelous light, are to show forth His glory. The church is the repository of the riches of the grace of Christ; and through the church will eventually be made manifest, even to ‘the principalities and powers in heavenly places,’ (Eph. 3:10) the final and full display of the love of God” (Acts of the Apostles p. 9). As a body of believers, this is our collective role on earth. We have no part in the vindication of God and His law of love. Our role is to receive His salvation through faith in His grace and then to make known His love and truth to others. Robert Wagley is executive secretary of the Iowa-Missouri Conference.

This article is an abridged version of a two-part series published on the conference website. To read the articles in their entirety, visit imsda.org/ the-fit-man.

IOWA-MISSOURI CONFERENCE

Conference Launches New Prayer Initiative

he Iowa-Missouri Conference recently launched a new prayer initiative called Rise Up. For a full week each month, members, churches and schools throughout the conference are asked to join together in lifting up a designated area of focus in prayer. The idea for this monthly call to prayer came about during a meeting between Sunnydale Academy principal Gary Russell, conference education superintendent Joe Allison, conference prayer coordinator Gail Coridan, and conference ministerial director Lee Rochholz. Russell asked for help in engaging members to actively pray for conference schools, and as the discussion developed it became clear that other areas of ministry could also greatly benefit from an intentional, focused prayer effort. “We have many prayer warriors in IowaMissouri,” said Rochholz, who believes this will have a measurable impact. “The closer we get to the second coming, the more important it will be for God’s people to be praying.” Rochholz added that he also hopes that praying together across the conference will have a unifying effect on members. “There are a lot of issues that threaten to tear us Courtesy Iowa-Missouri Conference

apart, from views on politics to COVID, race and more,” he said. “But when we, as God’s people, in spite of our differences, pray together for a common good, God can bind our hearts together.” Since the discussion started with a request to pray for our schools, it seemed only fitting to launch Rise Up in September with education being the first prayer focus (Sept. 6-12). A week earlier, announcements were published on the conference website and in the conference newsletter, and bulletin inserts and posters were sent out listing specific requests—a process that will repeat each month. By the time this is in print, October’s call to prayer, for pastors and their families (Oct. 4-10), will have taken place. November’s focus (Nov. 1-7) will be conference leaders and departmental directors, and December’s (Dec. 6-12) will be on next year’s evangelistic efforts. “I am so grateful our conference is coming out of these last several months of struggle with a battle cry and an anthem of faith, ‘Rise Up, O Church of God,’” said Coridan, referencing the hymn that inspired the name for the prayer initiative.

A Note of Thanksgiving

A group of Sunnydale youth have recorded a rendition of the hymn with which members, churches and schools may sing along each month during the call to prayer. “We were thwarted in March from completing our circuit of Town Hall Meetings, our churches and schools had to close last spring and many of our summer and fall events were either canceled or moved online,” Coridan continued. “But we praise the Lord for this: The spirit of our movement has not been quenched, and the joy of helping people prepare to meet their God has not been canceled.” Coridan continues, “The calls to united prayer are on the rise! Every difficulty is a call to prayer. Every tragedy is crying out. Let the voice of prayer be heard! It is our part to press together in prayer and be used of God in the way He chooses. Thank you for joining us in that effort.” Randy Harmdierks is communication director for the Iowa-Missouri Conference.

Since this is the final issue of OUTLOOK for 2020, we'd like to take a moment to express our thanks for God’s blessings through a challenging season.

Churches At the time this is being written, many of our churches have successfully resumed inperson services. As churches continue adhering to the proper safety protocols, we ask that you continue to pray for the health and safety of every member.

Schools All 13 of our elementary schools and Sunnydale Academy safely resumed inperson classes this fall. While we know of a few parents who have contracted the virus (in which cases students have been quarantined), as this is being written there have been no reports of outbreaks in any of our schools. We praise God for this blessing and ask you to continue praying that we will be able to safely continue in-person instruction all year. Have a wonderful holiday season and a blessed new year! —Iowa-Missouri Conference leadership team

For more information, visit imsda.org/riseup.

The Sunnydale Adventist Academy Chorale records their rendition of “Rise Up, O Church of God,” the hymn that inspired the name and serves as an anthem for the Rise Up prayer initiative. OUTLOOKMAG.ORG

NOV/DEC 2020 19

KANSAS-NEBRASKA CONFERENCE

New Principals at Midland and College View Academies Photos Courtesy Kansas-Nebraska Conference

Adam and Nina Littell moved to Shawnee, Kansas, from North Carolina to lead Midland Adventist Academy.

Adam Littell

e are blessed to welcome Adam and Nina Littell to Midland Adventist Academy and the KansasNebraska Conference. The Littells moved to Shawnee from the mountains of Western North Carolina for Littell to lead the team at MAA as principal. Since graduating from Southern Adventist University in 2008, Littell has enjoyed teaching math and science at Union Springs Academy in Upstate New York and at Mount Pisgah Academy in North Carolina. He chose the field of education in order to make a positive impact in the lives of students. While teaching at MPA, he completed a master’s degree in instructional leadership and took on the role of vice principal of academics, in addition to classroom teaching. Littell is a great example of a lifelong learner who

likes to consider things from many viewpoints before making decisions. His passions for excellence and community service are a great fit at Midland. He has also led several mission trips overseas through the Share Him program. When Littell is not traveling for service, he and Nina enjoy traveling for fun! He has visited all 50 states in the U.S. and has been to six continents. We look forward to seeing how God will work through Littell as Midland continues their mission of Developing passionate followers of Christ who love God and serve people. Steven Hutchison teaches music at Midland Adventist Academy.

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Spencer Hannah is excited to be the new principal at College View Academy. He was most recently principal at Tri-City Adventist School in Washington.

Spencer Hannah

as the principal at TriCity Adventist School in ollege View Academy Washington. In his years of is pleased to welcome teaching and administration, Spencer Hannah, who is serv- he has worked at various ing as the K-12 principal and places including Campion brings with him a wealth of Academy, Shenandoah experience and knowledge in Valley Academy, Blue Adventist education. He has Mountain Academy and committed his life and career Fletcher Academy. to the education of students, Most of his experience has and he has a passion for them been in secondary schools, to know Jesus Christ as a per- but he loves the connection sonal friend and Savior. with the elementary students, Hannah graduated from and at lunch time he likes to Washington Adventist visit the playground and hang University with a B.A. in out with the students. The mathematics and from the students love that he’s tall and University of Northern he can push them extra high Colorado with an M.A. in on the swings. educational administration. In a year where changes Hannah and his wife Eva happen almost every day, have two adult children, and Hannah has said that flexibiladventure is never far away. ity is the key to success. And Just recently he and his son by the grace of God, 2020-21 enjoyed a skydiving experiwill be a year to remember! ence, and on a nice day you Missy Sorter is the director for might see Hannah rolling marketing and admissions at onto campus riding his College View Academy. mountain bike. Prior to his move to Nebraska, Hannah served

KANSAS-NEBRASKA CONFERENCE

Photos Courtesy Kansas-Nebraska Conference

Creative Ministry Abounds in Nebraska Churches Pastor Mark Magnusson (Chadron, Nebraska) has been creating short videos called The Golfing Pastor teaching spiritual lessons while sharing golfing tips. Magnusson was on his way to becoming a golf teaching professional before being called to ministry. He hopes his love for God and golf can reach others who have similar interests. bit.ly/TheGolfingPastor

During these trying times of dealing with lockdowns, quarantines and limited interactions with people, the personal/prison ministry in Norfolk, Nebraska, has been busy mailing out Steps to Christ to inmates in the Nebraska state prison system, says Mary Potmesil (Norfolk, Nebraska). “Along with this wonderful little book, Bible studies were offered to each recipient. So far we are busy mailing out 15 Bible studies to both men and women.”

“Our College View Church (Lincoln, Nebraska) families celebrated Grandparents’ Day by sharing some beautiful flowers and personalized cards with our neighbors,” says Pastor Michael Paradise. “Families wrapped up flower bundles, designed cards, and even included postcards for our upcoming Gospel Proclamation Series. Our neighbors truly appreciated the gesture, and it was wonderful to make a positive impression on those closest to our church building.”

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NOV/DEC 2020 21

MINNESOTA CONFERENCE

Stone Ridge Opens for School On-site School starts COVID-careful

chool started on Aug. 24 with temperature checks, in-building masking and 20 seconds of soapy handwashing. The safety of our students and their families, along with the quality and accessibility of their education, were diligently weighed. Both the Minnesota Conference guidelines and the current CDC guidelines were carefully considered and implemented before the first child entered the classroom on Monday morning. The kids themselves have been eager to get back to school and be around their friends, even if it means sitting 6 feet apart. While physical distancing does cut down on extraneous whispering, it has not affected the cheerfulness and participation of the students in this year’s school experience. The year’s first art project was held outside, and the students always look forward to recess on the park-like grounds of the school. Rudy Carlson, Stone Ridge principal, says, “The 2019-20 school year was unprecedented. With the onset and rapid spread of COVID-19, we found ourselves moving to an online model of teaching. While our staff and families were flexible and made the best of the situation, there is

no question that it was less than ideal.” Carlson continues, “As we move into the beginning of the new school year, there are still many unknowns and uncertainties surrounding the coronavirus. One thing, however, is a certainty, and that is we feel blessed to be able to start this school year live and in-person.” Collene Rognlie-Klick writes from Duluth, Minnesota.

Top: Grace (fifth grade) Middle left: Robert (first grade) Middle right: Josiah (third grade) Bottom left: Micah (fifth grade) Bottom right: Jasper (second grade)

Photos: Collene Rognlie-Klick

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MINNESOTA CONFERENCE

Minnesota Branch Adventist Book Center Closes Permanently

“T

he risk and potential for financial loss of owning and operating an Adventist Book Center run

by the conference is too great, and as such, the conference shall not open an ABC either now or in the foreseeable future.” This was the outcome of a discussion on Sunday, Sept. 20, by the Minnesota Conference Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees requested a special committee to study the subject and various options as they related to maintaining an ABC locally, after the IowaMissouri Conference was no

longer able to operate the Minnesota Branch and closed its doors at the end of August this year. The ABC was owned and operated by the IowaMissouri Conference, which had been operating the Minnesota location since 2014 when Pacific Press stopped managing ABC stores. Declining sales and rising operating costs are among the reasons for the closure. This closure follows a

string of ABC store closures nationwide, with the Rocky Mountain Conference closing theirs in 2019. The Board of Trustees hopes that alternative means of ordering food may be possible in the future. Brian K. Mungandi is vice president for administration/ communication.

What’s Happening in Youth Ministry in the Minnesota Conference? Watch our YouTube channel for a variety of ministry updates

youtube.com/ MinnesotaConference or visit the website mnsda.com.

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NOV/DEC 2020 23

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CONFERENCE

Mountain Road Christian Academy Celebrates Constitution Day Traci Pike

Wyoming, district, to share her experiences on becoming an American citizen. Gabriela was born in ountain Road Christian Romania. Even as a little girl, Academy held a special she wanted to move to the worship to complement their United States. After graduhistory lessons on immigraating with a master’s degree tion and the United States in 2001, she sold her car and Constitution by inviting bought a one-way ticket to Gabriela Vincent, who is the U.S. married to Shayne Vincent, “When I moved to the pastor of the Casper, United States in the summer

Gabriela Vincent

of 2001, my dad gave me a $50 bill on my way to the airport. And that’s all I had when I arrived here,” she said. Gabriela was able to obtain her H-1B work visa, which allowed her to begin to work off campus as a minister of music. In 2011, Gabriela completed the paperwork to fulfill her lifelong dream of becoming a U.S. citizen.

“Becoming a citizen is by far one of the most exciting things I’ve ever accomplished in my life. Since I was seven years old, I dreamt of moving to America and one day becoming a U.S. citizen,” Gabriela explained to the students. “It’s been a long road since then, but God has allowed me to achieve my dreams and goals.” The worship concluded with Pastor Shayne explaining that our passport to heaven is Jesus; because of Him, we have been granted access to His heavenly kingdom. RMCNews

Masks, Smoke and September Snow Students react to the 2020 normal

ampion Academy is accepting the new normal with positivity and adaptability.

Students and staff have had to follow strict policies relating to COVID-19 and come up with new ways to interact in the classroom, the cafeteria and other areas of campus life. On top of that, Colorado’s unusual weather has been making national headlines with recordbreaking heat, poor air quality, smoke from wildfires and an early September snowstorm with record cold temperatures.

Read more at www.rmcsda.org/masks-smoke-snow-studentsreact-to-the-2020-normal 24 OUTLOOKMAG.ORG NOV/DEC 2020

Courtesy Rocky Mountain Conference

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CONFERENCE

Colorado Medical Society Elects Dr. Mark Johnson President

ark B. Johnson, MD, MPH, was voted Colorado Medical Society president-elect in August and will be installed as the CMS president in September 2021. Dr. Johnson has been a member of CMS for more than 30 years, has served on and chaired many of its committees and councils, and is currently a member of its governing board. Since 1990, Dr. Johnson has served as the executive director of Jefferson County Public Health. Though he had planned to retire in June, he delayed retirement until October so he could lead the county’s response

Courtesy Rocky Mountain Conference

to COVID-19. Founded in 1871, the Colorado Medical Society is the largest organization of physicians in Colorado, with more than 7,500 members across all specialties and employment settings. The society is leading meaningful innovation to enable a better healthcare system for patients, physicians and the state. It works closely with the American Medical Society to deliver resultsfocused strategies that help physicians enhance the delivery of care and improve the health of the nation. The members of the Colorado Medical Society

actively supported Medicaid expansion in Colorado, helping more eligible patients receive healthcare, and continues to seek other avenues to improve access to healthcare and health services with the goal of improving the health of all Coloradoans. Commenting on the CMS vote, Dr. Johnson said, “Healthcare has been a big part of my professional life and is an important role of my spiritual community. I sincurrently serve on its Vision cerely appreciate the support Board, of which Dr. Johnson of my colleagues in trusting is chair. me with this position.” RMCNews Mark and his wife, Diane, are long-time members of the Boulder Church, and both

Fully Alive Curriculum for RMC Youth Crafted for 2021

lacier View Ranch was filled with activity this summer, including the creation of a 52-week, themebased curriculum for RMC youth for 2021. Implications from the continued pandemic kept normal camp programming from operating, but GVR staff were not discouraged; rather, inspired. Camp staff from Union College and Southern Adventist University worked to improve GVR facilities and programming and to create youth initiatives to benefit churches throughout the year.

The team, led by Nena Madrigal and John Kent, GVR college staff from Tennessee, crafted a set of weekly lessons that tackles the biblical concept of living life with purpose. The curriculum will be finalized and released to RMC churches in January. “It’s really exciting to have a product like this rolling out from the RMC Youth Department,” said Kiefer Dooley, RMC youth director. “This is a curriculum written for Adventist youth with messages, ideas and inspiration to drive the formation of

relationships between leaders and youth. The curriculum will also complement the programming at GVR in 2021.” While the concept and the material are exciting, making a difference in the lives of young people will not be possible without the participation of local congregations. The Youth Department is looking for youth leaders to connect and engage at a deeper level. RMCNews with Kiefer Dooley, RMC youth director

Email youth@ rmcsda.org or text 870.688.8508 to be placed on the mailing list for the 2021 Fully Alive curriculum and receive important updates. Include your name, local church/ community, and cell phone number or email address.

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NOV/DEC 2020 25

ADVENTHEALTH SHAWNEE MISSION

Wellness Program Brings Whole Health to Kansas City Community Courtesy Shawnee Mission Health

Lisa Cummings, Community Wellness manager at AdventHealth Shawnee Mission, sets up a tent with health information and class schedules at the Overland Park Farmers' Market.

the program had to be carefully evaluated at the hospital to ensure all precautions were taken. “The program went through approvals throughout the hospital before we opened it back up in September,” says Cummings. “Everyone gets a temperature check and mask, and we make sure everyone is socially distanced. Healthcare as guidelines were established team members are on hand n AdventHealth Shawnee for keeping participants healthy. to check vitals and make sure Mission’s Community Participants receive masks and everyone is safe.” Wellness program, participants a temperature check before Classes are available that learn how to improve their entering. Tables are spaced out help focus on whole health whole health—mind, body and so everyone can sit 6 feet apart. which are particularly helpful spirit. Through classes such as Some classes are offered virduring anxious times. Tereza fitness, nutrition and mindful- tually, although the in-person Hubkova, MD, integrative ness, they learn from healthclasses are most popular. medicine physician, teaches care team members about how “Many participants feel com- a class called Building a to make healthy choices in a Resilient Immune System, fortable coming to the classes setting where they can meet because of the additional level which covers how to improve others with similar interests or of safety at the hospital,” says your chances of staying health conditions. healthy. Cummings leads Cummings. “Our physicians That social connection is an and directors review all our a class called Mindfulness important part of helping par- procedures and protocols and for Every Day that shows ticipants feel whole, says Lisa participants how to focus on give their approval.” Cummings, wellness manager For example, AdventHealth the present moment for better at AdventHealth Shawnee Shawnee Mission has an physical and emotional health. Mission. While staying infection prevention manager Mindfulness involves being connected can be a challenge who provides guidance on aware of your surroundings with COVID-19 and social dis- keeping a safe environment. and your senses to help your tancing, it’s an important part Physicians in pulmonology mind and body relax. of our overall health. and cardiology direct and “Research has shown that “We want to provide a place approve the fitness programs, just 10-15 minutes of mindwhere people can learn tools which are evaluated for the fulness can have beneficial to manage their health and individuals’ safety. effects and actually change the also talk about what’s going on One of those fitness proparts of your brain that keep in their lives,” says Cummings. grams, Move 4 Life, is geared you relaxed,” says Cummings. “It’s a way to provide peace in toward former patients who “People are often amazed at anxious times.” have chronic health condihow much better they feel Community Wellness classes tions, who are often seniors, after a few minutes of closing were paused in March and April and could be at-risk for their eyes and deep breathing.” with COVID precautions, but complications of COVID-19. Other Community Wellness the classes started again in June Before reopening in 2020, programs available to the

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