Omaha Star, Vol 84-No. 9, Omaha, Nebraska, Friday, April 29, 2022 by The Omaha Star

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Proudly Serving Our Community for Over 80 Years

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Nebraska’s Only Black Owned Newspaper Vol. 84 - No. 9 Omaha, Nebraska

Friday, April 29, 2022

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Family of the Week:

SYMONE airs May 7th

Ruth Thomas celebrates 102nd birthday

Ruth Thomas celebrated her 102nd birthday with the members of the local AKA Chapter. She was presented with 102 pink roses. Mrs. Thomas is a legend in our community. Her family is the founder and owner of the Thomas Funeral Home and she was a long time Social Worker in our community. She has three children: Janet, Judith and James “Jimmy,” and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Another centenarian in our community. Best wishes for many more birthdays from the Omaha Star.

Symone Sanders, the former chief spokesperson for Vice President Kamala Harris, will debut on MSNBC’s weekend lineup on May 7at 3:00 Central Standard Time. Her show, Symone, will air on Saturdays and Sunday, and will stream on Mondays and Tuesdays on MSNBC’s “hub” on Peacock. Catherine Snyder will serve as executive producer of the show. Snyder is currently the managing editor of WRC-TV, the NBC-owned station in Washington. Symone “will explore issues at the intersection of politics, culture and race and feature interviews with the nation’s top government officials, scholars, and thought leaders,” according to MSNBC. Symone is a product of North Omaha and received her education at Sacred Heart Elementary, Mercy High School and Creighton University. She is proud of her Omaha roots and many times refers to herself as a bald black woman from Omaha, Nebraska. We are looking forward to yet another Omaha Native to make us proud on the national stage.

The Women of Color Nebraska Caucus Luncheon

S Collins Rudolph and T Mickels The Women of Color Nebraska Caucus (WOCN) 2nd Annual Fannie Lou Hamer Legacy Luncheon at the downtown Double Tree by Hilton Hotel and provided a special occasion on several levels. WOCN, a movement not an organization, open to any voting-age woman regardless of party affiliation, religion, race, identification, or sexual orientation offered an afternoon of community strength. It was fitting because the Women of Color Nebraska Caucus focuses on empowering women of color through voter education,

the voting process, and issues concerning women of color. WOCN Founder LaVon StennisWilliams warmly welcomed a large excited group gathered to honor nine outstanding women: Nellie Mae Webb (posthumously), Edwardene Taylor Armstrong, Sammye Jackson, Phyllis Stone, Marianna Cruz, Melanie WilliamsSmotherman, Gina Miller, Laura McCormick, and Brenda Vosik. The nine Legacy Award recipients were selected for their efforts to eradicate injustice, address racial bias and emulate the values and dedication of activist Fannie Lou Hamer. After each woman or family member accepted a beautiful circular glass mounted plaque on their behalf, luncheon participants watched a short documentary film. The footage began with a date, September 15, 1963, a day that a mere 18 days prior witnessed the March on Washington protest at which Martin Luther King, Jr. declared he had a dream. The film then shifted to showing the façade of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama after three members of the KKK detonated the dynamite they planted in the

Information due: 5/6/22 Publish date: 5/13/22 send to: publisher@ omahastarinc.com WE HAD THE DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS ABOUT THE VACCINE. IT WORKS. Facts at: douglascountyhealth.com/covid-19

building’s basement. Sarah Collins Rudolph, a twelve-year-old teenage at that time, then made her appearance in the scratchy imagery shown laying in a hospital bed. Eyes bandaged, Collins Rudolph was the lone survivor and sister to one of the 4 Little Girls murdered in the basement church bathroom as they adjusted their dress sashes before climbing the stairs for choir practice. As the documentary film ended, the lights in the room adjusted and Sarah Collins Rudolph, now 71 years old, stood and spoke with those assembled at the luncheon. As the keynote speaker, Collins Rudolph talked about losing her right eye, the years of PTSD that followed, and the fact that she had received no counseling nor restitution for the crime. September 15, 1963, she noted was a day she will never forget, but she travels throughout the United States to physically demonstrate that Love does indeed defeat Hate. Collins Rudolph’s two co-authored books, The 5th Little Girl: Soul Survivor of the 16th Street Baptist Church Bombing and the young adult’s Introduction of Sarah Collins-Rudolph: The story of the fifth little girl who survived the 16th Street Baptist Church Bombing are available on Amazon.

Publisher’s Pen

By Terri D. Sanders

Yep, you got it COVID-19 is still with us. I was recently on a flight and had on my mask while many others did not. I was once told by a medical Dotcom Studios professional that the airport is one of the germiest place on the planet. I have had influenza A after an international flight so I believe it! I have had the opportunity to be in the room with some amazing women over the past week. The stories that they told were priceless. Just goes to show you that everyone has a story and you cannot judge a book by the cover, but you have to open it and read the pages. For the past two years we have all limited our activities and travel, but in 2022 the cat is out of the bag and we are on the road again. Weddings, graduations, family celebrations, and more are calling our names and we are answering the call. Please be careful as you travel. We will be putting Omaha Star on the map and going out and about and spreading our good news so stay tuned.

“Don’t sit down and wait for the opportunities to come, get up and make them.” ~ Madame C. J. Walker

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LOCAL NEWS

THE OMAHA STAR

April 29, 2022

THE OMAHA STAR, INC. The Philosophy of Luxury THE VOICE OF THE BLACK COMMUNITY

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Terri D. Sanders - publisher@omahastarinc.com Business Hours: Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Member of the National Newspaper Publishers Association Mildred D. Brown: Founder, July 9, 1938 Dr. Marguerita L. Washington: Publisher, 1989 - 2016 Phyllis Hicks: Publisher/Managing Editor, 2016 - 2019 Terri D. Sanders, Publisher Beryl Barnes: Administrator Barbara Reeves: Retail Distributor THE OMAHA STAR believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonism when it accords every man, regardless of race, color or creed, his human and legal rights. Hating no man, fearing no man in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as one is held back.

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

So its no surprise that Christi Ballard owns Omaha’s newest premier “Pre-Loved” luxury handbag and accessories boutique aptly named “Status”. This is no entrance into this industry for her being that this appreciation turned business began well over two decades ago when she recalled getting her first Louis Vuitton “speedy” bag at 13yrs of age from her parents. Christi has been collecting handbags and accessories ever since! She took me all the way back to High School as early as her sophomore year when not long after she established her first online marketplace to sell her thrifting finds on Poshmark. Her father would regularly take her and her siblings thrifting. She often would be asked to sell some of her finds by her friends and acquaintances. She recalls being shocked by the excited interest and the sometimes incredible offers of the dollars on the mere pennies she had spent for the items. Quietly while roaming the halls of her High School with her friends, unbeknownst to them she was a rapidly rising national and global maverick in the online resale industry making an insane return on her thrifting finds. While being so engrossed in the passion and joy of the business, she hadn’t recognized how lucrative her “hobby” had become. It wasn’t until after a couple of years in college while working, she’d find herself the regular go to of choice for hard to acquire luxury items. She began to look

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

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Big Mama’s Kitchen

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Chubb’s Finer Foods

2905 N. 16th St.

Cubby’s Old Market

5124 N. 24th St.

Fair Deal Village Grocery Market

2118 N 24th St

Family Fare Supermarket

820 N. Saddle Creek Rd.

Family Fare Supermarket

7402 N. 30th St. 5150 Center St.

Hy-Vee Supermarket

108th & Fort St.

Phil’s CASHSAVER A cost Plus Food Outlet

3030 Ames Ave.

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comparatively at the money she was making and being educated to make versus the money her “hobby” was accruing. She confidently made a decision to commit herself solely to what she knew best, loved most, and held most dear to herself, and obviously that is to live out this life of luxury! After over a decade of incredibly lucrative and successful pop-ups shops and invitation only corporate and private events, in 2020 with a booming business during the pandemic of all times, Christi formed her LLC and in 2021 opened her first very own brick and mortar location at 1917 S 67th St Suite 160 Omaha, NE 68106 in Aksarben Village adjacent to the UNO campus. She now has national and international comrades with whom she shares this industry with from New York, to Los Angeles, Canada, Singapore, and too many other cities and countries of note to even name! I dare say she’s quickly emerging as a leader in her industry as well. Right here in our own back yard, born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska! The sincerest sentiments she wanted me to share with you are that primarily luxury pieces are tangible investments that you hold in your possession rather than virtual ones. Oh that first $300.00 “speedy” bag she received at 13yrs of age…she still owns and loves! Only now it’ll take $1700.00 to by a new one today, and hers is now worth $1200.00. Yep it has appreciated as well as most all luxury items have and continue to do! Second she emphasized that the bags are honored to have you as it’s owner, not the other way around! You’re not honored to have this “unattainable” handcrafted leather good, as beautiful as they may be…but it’s the lucky one… to be styled and donned by you! So wear it and never let it wear you! Lastly it’s Christi’s mission to de-stigmatize the luxury fashion space explaining that its accessible to anyone if you start at the place of your affordability and enjoy comfortably there, purchasing throughout the scale of the market as you choose and are enabled to do so. Using prior investments to sell upward as well if need be. She gazed around her store letting me know that “this was it!” This is her destination. Her first of at least ten in her chain of Status locale’s. This space is incredible! She thanked her father posthumously looking at the huge branding on the wall behind the counter. She said when the family would all get back together her Father would go around the room asking them of the current events, affairs, and conditions of their lives… He’d start it off by saying “OK…so and so…what’s your status?” Christi then looked at me intently and said…yep…this is “MY STATUS”

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Omaha Star Publishing Dates 2022 Month MAY

Info due

Pub Date

Theme

Focus

5/6/22 5/13/22 Writers / Authors Nebraska Authors 5/20/22 5/27/22 JUNE 6/3/22 6/10/22 Graduates High School / College Graduate / Professionals 6/17/22 6/24/22 JULY 7/1/22 7/8/22 Stem Code Like a Queen / King 7/15/22 7/22/22 AUGUST 7/29/22 8/5/22 Native Omahan’s Welcome Home 8/12/22 8/19/22 SEPTEMBER 8/26/22 9/2/22 Education Back to School 9/9/22 9/16/22 OCTOBER 9/23/22 9/30/22 Harvest Time Canning and Freezing 10/7/22 10/14/22 10/21/22 10/28/22 NOVEMBER 11/4/22 11/11/22 Gratitude Being Thankful 11/18/22 11/25/22 DECEMBER 12/2/22 12/9/22 Self Care Caring For You 12/16/22 12/23/22 12/30/22 1/6/23 www.theomahastar.com 402-346-4041 PO Box 3393 Omaha, NE 68103 publisher@omahastarinc.com

LOCAL NEWS

April 29, 2022

THE OMAHA STAR

Page Three

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Page Four THE OMAHA STAR

PRAISE, WORSHIP, DEVOTION, OBITUARIES & INSPIRATION

James “Jimmy” Redden James “Jimmy” Redden, 77 of Omaha, passed away April 12, 2022. Jimmy was a graduate of Tech High school. He attended Peru State College where he played basketball. He was a sharp dresser, loved cars, enjoyed hanging out with family and friends and was avid basketball fan. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to cash app, $KBSr. Family visitation will be shared at a later date.

Mother’s Day Luncheon

Black Men United's 10th Annual No Murders In May Mother's Day Luncheon will be Saturday May 7, 2022 12p to 1:30p Assembly of the Saints Church 4424 N. 24th Street. This is a free luncheon, a gift to our neighbors and friends in Omaha. We are celebrating you! We are once again challenging our city during the month of May, that there be No Murders in May! This year we are honoring all those who have lost a loved one to Covid 19 as well Mother’s Day was created in honor of a bereaved mother. To honor and celebrate the mothers who carry some, if not all, of their children in their hearts rather than their arms. While Mother’s Day is painful for bereaved moms, it is also an opportunity to celebrate all of the moms and their children. A woman’s love for her deceased child never dies, nor does her motherhood. Please make your reservation at: https://www. eventbrite.com/e/no-murders-in-may-bereavedmothers-day-luncheon-tickets-321430606597 Master of Ceremonies: Senator Terrell McKinney 2022 Honorees: Ms. Precious McKesson, Executive Director Nebraska Democratic Party, Ms. Raquel Henderson, College Success Navigator at Metropolitan Community College, Employment & Education Coordinator Black & Pink National Ms. Ashlei Vonne, Founder, CEO, Director at I Be Black Girl, Co-owner Best Burger Omaha Musical Entertainment by: Elyssa Reschelle Finch

ATTENTION READERS

Looking for Death and Funeral Notices

If you want a notice of death or obituary published in the Omaha Star Newspaper, call or let your funeral director know that you want a notice placed in the Omaha Star Newspaper. Funeral directors should contact the Omaha Star office to submit notices and/or Obituaries.

Mon. – Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. 402-346-4041

THOMAS FUNERAL HOME & Cremation Services TRADITION • RESPECT • DIGNITY

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

April 29, 2022

Joyce Goodwin

November 23, 1940 - April 17, 2022 Joyce Goodwin was called home on her favorite holiday, Easter 2022. Married to Alvin Goodwin 64 years. She met Alvin Goodwin while attending Howard Kennedy Grade School, Alvin would become the love of her life. An Omaha Technical High School 1956 graduate, she was honored to be the class Valedictorian. Her academic excellence in school earned her a scholarship to attend college. She began as a freshman at Duchense Women’s College and later transferred to University of Nebraska at Omaha where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition and Dietary Sciences. Joyce worked as a dietitian at Bergan Mercy Hospital and later at St. Joseph Hospital. Joyce was a writer, artist, and a woman who could

make something out of nothing, like her mother. She was married to Alvin Goodwin on March 14, 1959 and their marriage was blessed with four children: Karen, Derek, Geoffrey, and Stephen. Joyce will always be remembered for her love of Black culture and her numerous creative talents. She and her husband traveled the world together. God called home on her favorite holiday, Easter. She was preceded in death by her daughter Karen Perry; son Geoffrey Goodwin; parents, John and Juanita Pope; four brothers, Richard Pope, Don Everett Pope, John Pope, and Wallace Pope. She leaves behind to mourn: her husband, Alvin Goodwin; sisters Rose Mary (Pope) Moore of Houston, Texas, and Catherine (Pope) Carter of San Diego, California; sister-in-law, Evie (Goodwin) Christian; sons, Derek Goodwin and Stephen Goodwin. Joyce will greatly be missed by her nine grandchildren; five greatgrandchildren, nieces, nephews, and a host of other family and special friends, including Sharon Rhodes and Clarissa McGruder.

Cox Employees to Award $95,000 to Nebraska and Iowa Nonprofits Agencies can apply for grants up to $7,500

Cox Communications employees will award more than $95,000 to Nebraska/Iowa nonprofits in 2022 through its employee-funded giving program, Cox Charities. Applications are being accepted now at the Cox Charities website through Sunday, May 1. Cox Charities Community Investment grants will be given to nonprofit organizations with outstanding programs that benefit the Nebraska/Iowa Cox Communications service areas. Funds are targeted toward nonprofit programs that focus on education, technology, social issues and the arts. “Through Cox Charities, our employees are excited to be able to give back to the communities where we live, work

and serve. It has never been more important to support as we continue to recover from the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic,” said Kim Rowell, market vice president for Nebraska and Iowa. “Our employee-funded program allows us to support the nonprofits that positively impact Nebraska and Iowa, and for that, we couldn’t be more proud.” Since 2012, Cox Charities has supported educators and nonprofit organizations through these employee-funded grants totaling more than $8.6 million. In 2022, Cox employees in Nebraska/Iowa have pledged to donate nearly $136,000 to continue fulfilling its mission of strengthening Cox communities through the support of programs that positively impact Nebraska and Iowa. For Cox Charities Community Investment Grant applications and more information, visit www. coxcharitiescentral.org.

‘No More Empty Pots’ Receives Grant from Pearl Milling Company’s P.E.A.R.L. Pledge Program

Pearl Milling Company, the 132-year old pancake mix and syrup brand previously found under the Aunt Jemima name, announced No More Empty Pots as one of the 14 recipients of its P.E.A.R.L. Pledge community funding initiative. No More Empty Pots is a nonprofit organization local to Omaha whose mission is to connect individuals and groups to improve self-sufficiency, regional food security and economic resilience of urban and rural communities through advocacy and action. No More Empty Pots will receive a grant of $100,000 to further its work of empowering Black women and girls in the community. “Talent and creativity has always been in abundance among Black women and girls. With this funding, the longstanding talent and creativity that has enabled generational survival and achievement will be matched with resources to intentionally amplify and bring to fruition their highest visions for themselves and community,” said Nancy Williams, President/CEO for No More Empty Pots. “Everyday we work to ensure that everyone in our community has equitable access to resources. This is one collaborative action to focus support on Black women and girls.” As part of Pearl Milling Company’s rebrand journey and commitment to support the Black community, it launched P.E.A.R.L. Pledge with the goal of assisting 501c (3) organizations working to empower Black women and girls across the country. “As we continue Pearl Milling Company’s rebrand journey, we want to ensure we’re showing up for our consumers and helping to create moments of joy in their lives in more impactful ways,” said Michelle McAlister, Senior Director of Marketing for Meals at Quaker. “The P.E.A.R.L. Pledge program champions the success of Black women and girls by focusing on the pillars of Prosperity, Empowerment, Access, Representation and Leadership. We are proud to support these amazing organizations as they help drive positive change in their communities.” To help identify the 2021 P.E.A.R.L. Pledge grant recipients, Pearl Milling Company worked with an Advisory Council comprised of influential women and industry thought leaders who have a personal interest in uplifting Black women and girls. They are: ● Renae Bluitt, a filmmaker, podcaster, and storyteller committed to centering and celebrating Black women. She channeled this passion into creating and executive producing her documentary, She Did That. ● Eunique Jones Gibson, a creative visionary, cultural architect, and social activist who develops awardwinning campaigns and products that ignite conversation, introspection, and social change. Among her most notable campaigns is Because of Them We Can.

● Valeisha Butterfield Jones, an award-winning global business leader with more than 20 years of experience working with Fortune 500 companies. She focuses on building more inclusivity for underrepresented communities at the intersections of technology, entertainment, and politics. ● Elisa Camahort Page, an author, activist, entrepreneur, and consultant best known as the co-founder and COO of the global women’s media company BlogHer. She also co-authored Road Map for Revolutionaries: Resistance, Activism, and Advocacy for All, a best-selling book about everyday activism. ● Millie Peartree, a world-renowned chef, TV personality, restaurateur, and philanthropist who founded Full Heart Full Bellies, a charity that started in COVID19 by providing meals for families in New York’s Bronx community and continues to drive change by organizing food, information, and support drives to end food poverty. For more information about No More Empty Pots, visit www.nmepomaha.org, For more information about P.E.A.R.L. Pledge, visit www.pearlmillingcompany.com/pearlpledge. No More Empty Pots (NMEP) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to connect individuals and groups to improve self-sufficiency, regional food security and economic resilience of urban and rural communities through advocacy and action. NMEP’s vision is to support communities in becoming self-sufficient, and food secure through collaboration and adherence to our core values of education, stewardship, and sustainability. NMEP serves youth to seniors providing educational, hands-on and experiential learning. Learn more at www.nmepomaha.org or email info@nmepomaha.org. Pearl Milling Company brand, owned by The Quaker Oats Company, a unit of PepsiCo, Inc., provides greattasting pancake mixes, syrups, cornmeal, flour, and grits products that have been helping families create memorable breakfast moments for over a century. Founded in 1888, Pearl Milling Company began as a small mill in St. Joseph, Missouri producing flour, cornmeal and, beginning in 1889, the famous self-rising pancake mix that would go on to be known as Aunt Jemima. Its pancake mix varieties include Original, Buttermilk, Whole Wheat as well as its Pancake On The Go products in Chocolate Chip, Buttermilk & Maple, Blueberry, and Double Chocolate. Syrup varieties include Original, Lite, Butter Rich, Butter Lite, and Country Rich, in addition to several cornmeal, cornmeal mix and grits offerings. For more information, please visit www. pearlmillingcompany.com, www.facebook.com/pearlmillingcompany or follow us on Instagram @pearlmillingcompany.

Free Ed Poindexter Information

Write/email: Nebraska Pardons Board, PO Box 95007, Lincoln, NE 68509 ne.pardonsboard@nebraska.gov Call: Governor Pete Ricketts 402-471-2244 Attorney General Doug Peterson 402-471-2683 Secretary of State Robert Evnen 402-471-2554

LOCAL NEWS

April 29, 2022

THE OMAHA STAR

Congratulations

to15 Great Teachers The 2022 Alice Buffett Outstanding Teacher Award Winners

Tom Brown

Saddlebrook Elementary Third Grade

Tom Brown has been with OPS for 18 years, the past 12 at Saddlebrook. A native of Omaha, he has a B.S. from the University of Nebraska Omaha.

Laura Chambers

South High School Spanish and English as a Second Language

Laura Chambers has been at South High School for all of her 22 years with OPS. She is from Beaver Crossing, Nebraska, and has a B.A. from the University of Nebraska Kearney and an M.A. from the University of NebraskaLincoln.

Kim Dutiel

Amy Fitl

Craig Horobik

Kim Dutiel has been with OPS for 31 years, all of them at Dodge. An Omaha native, she has a B.A. from the University of NebraskaLincoln.

Amy Fitl has been with OPS for 14 years, eight of them at Edison. She is from Omaha and has a B.A. from the University of Nebraska Omaha.

Craig Horobik has been at Burke for the entirety of his six-year career. A native of Benkelman, Nebraska, he has a B.A. from the University of Nebraska Omaha.

Dodge Elementary Fourth Grade

Edison Elementary Third Grade

Burke High School Science

Allison Iles

Debi Bischof Jaeke

Molly Mertz

Lewis & Clark Middle School English as a Second Language

Northwest High School Resource

Donna Murphy

Kelly Nielsen

Allison Iles has been with OPS for 16 years, all of them at North. She is from Plattsmouth, Nebraska, and has a B.S. from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, an M.A. from Doane University, and an M.S. from Creighton University.

Debi Bischof Jaeke has been with OPS for 29 years, the last six at Western Hills. An Omaha native, she has a B.A. from the University of Nebraska Kearney, an M.A. from the University of Nebraska Omaha, and an M.S. from Wayne State College.

Molly Mertz has been with OPS for nine years, all of them at Lewis & Clark. A native of Minden, Nebraska, she has a B.A. from the University of Nebraska Kearney and an M.A. from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Donna Murphy has spent her entire 24-year OPS career at Northwest. A native of Grand Island, Nebraska, she has a B.A. from the University of Nebraska Kearney and an M.A. from Doane University.

Kelly Nielsen has been at Oak Valley for 12 of her 13 years with OPS. Originally from Omaha, she has a B.S. and an M.A. from the University of Nebraska Omaha.

Lisa Price

Patrick Ryan

Sarah Short

Cheryl White

Kristi Woodworth

Lisa Price has been with OPS for 24 years, the past 10 at Washington. A native of Columbus, Nebraska, she has a B.A. from the University of Nebraska Kearney and an M.A. from the University of Nebraska Omaha.

Patrick Ryan has been at Burke for his entire 18 years with OPS. He is from Huntington Beach, California, and has a B.S. from the University of NebraskaLincoln and an M.S. from the University of Nebraska Omaha.

Sarah Short has been with OPS for 22 years, the last 17 at Lewis & Clark. She is from Omaha and has a B.A. and an M.A. from the University of Nebraska Omaha.

Cheryl White has been with OPS for 20 years, all of them at Norris. She is a native of Bellevue, Nebraska, and has a B.S. from Illinois State University and an M.A. from Concordia University.

Kristi Woodworth, an Omaha native, has been with OPS for 15 years, all of them at Bryan. She has a B.S. from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, an M.A. from Peru State College and an M.A. from Concordia University.

North High School Counselor

Washington Elementary Second Grade

Western Hills Elementary Counselor

Burke High School Social Studies/Aeronautics

Lewis & Clark Middle School Instrumental Music

It is with a great deal of pride that we make these awards of $10,000 each to teachers in the Omaha Public Schools system. Fortunately for Omaha, there are far more great teachers in the Omaha Public Schools system than there are awards to give. We particularly thank all of you who nominated so many fine teachers, and we encourage you to support them for the 2023 awards.

Norris Middle School Reading

Oak Valley Elementary Resource

Bryan Middle School Family and Consumer Science

In a wide variety of ways, each outstanding teacher is respected and admired by students, parents and peers. Each one has an unusual ability to make subject matter come alive. Each one goes to extraordinary lengths to encourage and stimulate our childrens’ interests in numerous subjects and skills. Each one shows incredible energy over the school day – a day that often extends into the evening and weekend. As a group, they are among our most important resources for the future. We cannot support and applaud them enough.

Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation 808 Conagra Drive, Omaha, NE 68102

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THE CULTURE April 29, 2022 Omaha North student awarded $80,000 CSM Marie Curie Scholarship

Page Six THE OMAHA STAR

College of Saint Mary (CSM) has selected Tylina Cookman-Booth of Omaha as a Marie Curie Scholar starting in the fall. Cookman-Booth was presented with a check for $80,000 on Thursday, April 21. She receives the scholarship after standing out in academic talent and showing outstanding leadership and service. “When I first met Tylina, she immediately stood out as a serious student who takes an active role in her learning,” said Amanda Gutierrez, an AP English teacher at Omaha North High School. “For the majority of students, my class is their first experience with learning at the Advanced Placement level. At a time when most students are unsure and reluctant to participate, Tylina was willing to discuss content-related topics and ask questions.” College of Saint Mary’s prestigious Marie Curie Scholars Program, which is funded in part by the National Science Foundation, provides significant financial support and resources to outstanding young women pursuing study in STEM majors, such as biology, chemistry or math. Marie Curie Scholars receive up to $20,000 annually for four years in gift aid. In addition to having access to substantial financial resources and facilities, participants also receive free tutoring, have opportunities for undergraduate research, and have access to top programs like the National Institute of Health and NASA research fellowships. Marie Curie Scholars also often attend and present at national conferences.

Your future in healthcare starts here.

Learn more at methodistcollege.edu/healthcare (402) 354-7200

At CSM, Cookman-Booth, the daughter of the late Theresa Cookman, plans to major in biology starting in the fall of 2022. Located in Omaha, in the heart of Aksarben Village, College of Saint Mary uses initiatives like the Marie Curie Scholar Program to provide women from all backgrounds with access to an affordable, excellent

college experience, career-driven coursework and lifelong leadership skills. Cookman-Booth is one of eight recipients of this year’s Marie Curie Scholarships. To learn more about College of Saint Mary, see CSM. edu, or contact Leeanna Ellis, PR strategist and content writer. 402-399-2349 • lellis@csm.edu

PASSIONATE ABOUT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT?

WE’RE HIRING! Make An Impact. Build Stronger Communities. Help Grow The Good Life.

opportunity.nebraska.gov

THE CULTURE THE OMAHA STAR Page Seven District 2 City Council Representative Bi-Weekly Communicator

April 29, 2022

From The Desk of Juanita Johnson Omaha, it is time to put yesterday’s stories behind us. Talk without action will not do. We must hold ourselves accountable for our future. Change is coming at a rapid pace. Opportunities will be huge! Will YOU be ready? As your elected Omaha City Council representative, I convey your concerns to the Mayor, the Omaha City Council Representatives, and City Departmental Heads. Simply put, I am the supervisor, and the mayor is the overall manager. After communicating your concerns, I need to communicate back to you the citizens of Omaha. With this assigned task in mind, effective today, April 29, 2022, I am launching the “Juanita Johnson City Council Bi-Weekly Communicator.” Although, officially elected as the City Council Representative from District 2, I represent all citizens of Omaha.

Every two weeks this Bi-Weekly Communicator will be published via the Omaha Star, in addition the Communicator will be posted to the City of Omaha Juanita Johnson City Council District 2 website site, the Juanita Johnson City Council Facebook page and other social media outlets. The “Communicator” will become the communication vehicle that will unite us all. Here is a brief summary of potential Bi-Weekly Communicator contents: l Reported Concerns – a summary of social media, phone calls, and emails received by District 2 City Council representative and City Council staff during a specific time period. l Council Agenda Items – brief summary i.e., of ordinances, resolutions, presentations, zoning, Tax Increment Financing (TIF), permits, proclamation announcements, liquor license applications, and honorary street renaming requests. Omaha City Council Agenda items are relevant to all the citizens of Omaha. l Media Statement | Public Service Announcements (PSA) - when deem necessary in order to delivered official statements to members of the press and PSAs on various topics to the general public. l Acknowledgements – recognize residents, neigh-

borhoods, owners, businesses, and local heroes. l State Legislative News – concerns, bills, and announcements from the Nebraska unicameral. l Employment Opportunities – a resume database, links and QR codes for employment opportunities across all sectors of employment. I want to be able to refer individuals and/or businesses to those that I come in contact with during my various business encounters and meetings. l Neighborhoods Associations| Homeowners |Parks – brief description and links to meetings, newsletters, projects, and events. l Save the Date – date and time of upcoming community and reoccurring meetings. l Pictorial Galleries – recognition of noteworthy persons, current, and historical events. l Arts | Cultural – identify the various art and cultural venues within District 2 and metro Omaha. Identify all the various art and cultural venues within the city so that all citizens of Omaha can become aware of the outstanding organized events that Omaha has to offer while experiencing diversity, our cultural differences, and ethnicities.

Remembering Brad Ashford By U.S. Senator Deb Fischer Recently, Nebraska lost a good man too soon. Brad Ashford, a former state senator and U.S. congressman from Omaha, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family. Brad was a dedicated public servant. After earning his J.D. from Creighton University School of Law, he began his career as a staff attorney at the Federal Highway Administration before entering private practice. In 1987, he began his service in the Legislature, where he represented the 6th District for eight years. He later returned for eight more years, this time for the 20th District. And during the 115th Congress, he served Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District in the House of Representatives. He was also a relentless optimist. After he was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year, he posted on Facebook that he had “a little brain cancer.” I don’t know many other people who could bring that kind of humor to a diagnosis like the one Brad

received. Learning that you have brain cancer would devastate most people – but not Brad. In the same post, he wrote, “I promise I will do everything I possibly can do to encourage our community to work together for the common good.” That was just who Brad was. At every turn, his first thought was never about himself. It was always about what is best for Nebraska, especially Omaha. Brad joined me in introducing the CHIP IN for Vets Act, which President Obama signed into law in 2016. This bill allowed the Omaha community to establish a public-private partnership with the VA to build a new medical clinic for veterans. And because the local business community was involved, the clinic was built under budget and ahead of schedule. It now serves more than 40,000 veterans from Nebraska and western Iowa each year. From the very beginning, Brad was instrumental in getting buy-in from the Omaha business community for this

School board candidate earns sought after endorsement Brianna Full recently announced her endorsement from the Omaha Education Association and the Nebraska State Education Association in her candidacy for the Omaha Public School Board of Education in subdistrict 2. The teacher’s unions are a vital partnership for any future school board member’s tenure, and are especially important as OPS schools face the worst teaching shortage in its history. Full was honored to receive the endorsement and explains why it means so much to her. “I’m glad that my vision to create better schools connected with the teachers. It’s important that we work together to ensure that they are taken care of as we continue through the backend Bri Full of a pandemic. The teachers set the learning environment for our students, so when they suffer, our children suffer as a result.” Full has also received endorsements from the Nebraskans for Education Excellence, The Nebraska Unity PAC, and Women Who Run. Her ambitious but pragmatic plan to address many of the problems OPS is facing have proven to win over the support of several voters too. One of her proponents writes, “I support her after that Culxr House forum. She’s not apologizing for the district and she has ideas to make it better and have it serve our students. She’s 1/9 but I’m convinced she’ll fight for us even in a losing battle.” The top five priority areas she intends to focus on if elected to the school board are addressing the academic and mental health shortfalls of the students, retaining and recruiting more teachers and staff of color, offering more opportunity for parents have a bigger role in their student’s education, addressing the school-to-prison pipeline, and increasing community involvement in the decision making processes of the school board. You can visit Full4OPS.com for additional information about her platform and more.

Do more for your future. Take the next big step in your career. Build your skills, earn competitive wages, and take advantage of growth opportunities. Apply today at american.bank/careers.

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project. Without his work, Omaha would not have been able to rally around our veterans in the way they did. The new ambulatory care center opened in 2020, and it was so successful that Congress reauthorized legislation Congressman Don Bacon and I introduced to extend the CHIP IN for Vets Act for five more years. For the past several months, Brad penned a regular column in the Nebraska Examiner, where he reflected on his career and other topics. In one of my favorites, from early April, he asks, “What is a Nebraskan?” “Nebraskans,” he wrote, “have courage. We are resilient, persistent and strong. We come to the aid of one another when circumstances call for it. We are there in good times Brad Ashford and bad, celebrating successes and working to solve issues … We build upon That describes many Nebraskans – and our heritage, we listen to others and, at the it certainly described Brad Ashford. He same time, we chart our own course. We was a good man with a kind heart. He look for commonalities and ways to move loved his wife, Ann, and their whole forward together.” family deeply.

Bid Opportunity The Union for Contemporary Art

Black Box Theater

On behalf of the The Union For Contemporary Art, LundRoss Constructors would like to invite contractors and suppliers to bid on the Black Box Theater project to be located at 2401 N. 24th St. Scope of work includes renovation of an existing building with an addition to that building for a total project size of 8,700 square feet. Project is scheduled to start by June 2022 and will be complete in approximately one year.

PROJECT TEAM

Bids can be hand delivered to 4601 F Street, faxed to 402-342-8775 or emailed to bids@lundross.com by 2:00 pm on Friday, May 6th. The following trades and scopes are being accepted: site surveying, final cleaning, grading/earthwork, site concrete paving and sidewalks, landscaping, concrete foundations and flatwork, precast and steel erection, masonry restoration, finish carpentry, caulking, glass and glazing, metal stud framing, drywall, flooring, painting, soda blasting, specialty item installation, building signage, window treatments and fire protection.

We highly encourage minority and womenowned businesses, as well as small and emerging companies to attend one of these meetings and bid on this exciting expansion of The Union for Contemporary Art’s campus. Scott Thompson Project Executive

Chris Harnly John Mahaney Sr. Project Manager Estimator

Contact Chris Harnly with questions. 402.676.5647 | ChrisH@lundross.com

Page Eight

THE CULTURE

THE OMAHA STAR

April 29, 2022

MCC Personal Trainer Certification Aims to Max Out Local Employment Pool in Fitness, Health and Wellness Field Metropolitan Community College’s Workforce Innovation Division is now an authorized training partner of the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) and will be offering a new personal trainer certification program starting summer quarter. After successful completion of the accelerated 10-week program, participants take the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) accredited NASM-CPT certification exam to gain entry into the high-demand fitness, health and wellness field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of fitness trainers and instructors is projected to grow by nearly 40 percent nationally by 2030. Additionally, in Nebraska, demand for workers in the field outpaces the national average. NASM, a global leader in fitness certification, has trained more than 1.3 million fitness professionals throughout the world. MCC is the only public, non-profit institution in Nebraska authorized

as a NASM academic partner. “As the public becomes increasingly more conscious about maintaining good physical health and well-being, the College’s new certification is an important offering for people looking to get into a rewarding, high-demand career and employers who will benefit from a broader talent pool to fill open positions,” said Robert Caldwell, Workforce Training manager at MCC. “In addition to outstanding career opportunities immediately available in these fields, personal trainers make a lasting impact in the lives of their clients, and the profession is an excellent choice for someone who desires a flexible work schedule and has a passion for health and wellness.” The certification content, which is provided with a blend of online activities and live instruction from a NASM Master Trainer, covers the most current evidence, strategies and training techniques to optimize human potential and performance. Topics include standards and codes of

conduct; exercise psychology and behavioral coaching techniques; concepts and structures of anatomy and physiology, human movement, exercise metabolism and nutrition; client fitness assessments; exercise techniques; and exercise program design. Common occupations of NASM-certified personal trainers include fitness trainers; gym owners or managers; virtual/online, athletic, strength and conditioning and nutrition coaches; group fitness instructors; massage and physical therapists; or corrective exercise specialists. Some occupations require further education and credentials. “NASM is an industry leader in health and fitness credentialing and represents a standard of excellence that aligns with Metropolitan Community College’s reputation,” Caldwell said. For more information on the NASM Certified Personal Trainer program, please visit mccneb.edu/nasmcpt or email Robert Caldwell at rcaldwell11@mccneb.edu.

An Opportunity to Get Your Financial House in Order April is Financial Literacy Month. Recognized by the U.S. Government in 2004, the month’s mission is to promote, advocate for and support financial literacy efforts across the U.S. In other words, this is an opportunity to improve your personal and household stability and success. The recently opened Carver Legacy Center near 24th and Lake offers itself as a resource to families, businesses and community organizations to increase savings and investments through understanding, education and support. With the aim of building Black and North Omaha wealth by investing directly back into the community, additional financial security for Carver Legacy account deposits and banking services are offered through its partnership with FDIC-insured American National Bank. Why is Financial Education Important? At a time when inflation sits at a 40-year high, with interest rates and housing costs on the rise, and communities adapting to the lingering effects of the pandemic, gaining an in-depth knowledge of finances is more valuable than ever. The principles of financial literacy include earning, spending, saving, investing, borrowing and protecting. More specifically, these encompass understanding: your sources of income; budgeting and knowing where your money goes; how debt works; how to save and invest money so that it can work for you; and how to protect money with tools such as insurance and retirement planning.

Gaining financial literacy is multifaceted. It can start in early childhood by tagging along with a parent to the grocery store to see how purchase decisions are made or having dinner conversations that include money-related topics. Dr. Martin Williams, Co-Owner of the Carver Legacy Center, noted “We have to build our community around faith, family and finances…We have to talk about money in our homes, we have to start believing about money in our homes.” Part of Carver’s mission is to support community-led revitalization through homeownership and creating generational and legacy wealth. Homeownership opens the door to passing wealth from generation to generation and has been shown to stabilize communities by providing better access to education and employment opportunities. The 2019 Survey of Consumer Finances found that for people under the age of 35, 46% of white people owned a home versus 28% of Hispanic and 17% of Blacks. The gap was tied to differences in parental wealth with Blacks being less likely to receive familial down payment assistance due to lack of savings.

R e s o u rc e s Beyond the Textbook The world of finance can be daunting but it’s critical to learn and practice, not only for personal reasons but for the long-term success of our community. The 2021 TIAA Institute-GFLEC Personal Finance Index included a 28-question financial literacy survey and only 50% of adults answered more than half the questions correctly. The survey found that lack of financial knowledge comes with a social and economic cost as it relates to the ability to pay bills, struggling with debt, availability of emergency savings, and overall emotional and personal stress and well-being. The Nebraska Department of Education includes financial literacy components in its curriculum starting in first grade. Five years ago, Omaha Public Schools began requiring one semester of Personal Finance. Considering the average score for ages 15-18 on the 2021 NFEC National Financial Literacy Test was 63%, financial literacy cannot just be learned in school. Accessibility to free education is aplenty from online tools such as specialized calculators and budgeting programs to

the local library with its books, audio books and access (with a library card) to quality online classes through Khan Academy and LinkedIn Learning. The Urban Financial Services Coalition Omaha (www.ufscomaha.org) is also a great resource. Don’t forget, regularly looking at your bank account and keeping track of transactions is an educational opportunity, too. Understanding where we’ve been, where we are now, and our financial goals are critical first steps in becoming financially literate. Lynnell Williams, Co-Owner of the Carver Legacy Center said of our children, “Do them a favor, not another pair of tennis shoes, a bank account. Give them a gift that can shift their lives for generations.” The greater gift is becoming financially literate yourself, so you can provide greater security and generational stability for both family and our community. If you have financial skills and knowledge, share it with your neighbor. If you want more financial skills and knowledge, seek it out. In the long run, you will be worth more, and our communities will thrive. The Carver Legacy Center is committed to educating and supporting individuals, families and even businesses that want to gain the knowledge and understanding of their own financial literacy. Together, we can benefit from a community that has a positive financial wellbeing. Get started at carverlegacycenter.com.

Community Healthcare You Can Trust At Charles Drew Health Center, our strength is in our community. As your trusted community healthcare source, we provide COVID-19 testing, treatment, vaccines and boosters, as well as high-quality and affordable medical, dental and behavior healthcare, pharmacy and enabling services.

402.451.3553 | Call us today to schedule your appointment! | charlesdrew.com HCAN722-12 Omaha Star 1/2 Page Color: Full Color

PRAISE & WORSHIP DIRECTORY

April 29, 2022

ALLEN CHAPEL A.M.E.

KING SOLOMON MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

Rev. Jacqueline Ford, Pastor 2842 Monroe Street Omaha, NE 68107 Off: (402) 734-3399 Email: admin@allenchapelomaha.org Sunday School...........................9:00 a.m. Sunday Praise & Worship.....10:00 a.m. Thursday Bible Study..............8:00 p.m. via teleconference, dial-in number 563-999-2090 and access code 576989

Rev. Jacqueline Ford

“Where Life is for Everyone” SUNDAYS 10:00 AM

THE OMAHA STAR

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

3202 Evans Street Omaha, NE 68111 Ph: 402-455-0358 Fax: 402-455-0801

Pastor Albert Jonathan Wagstaff

kingsolomonbaptist@yahoo.com kingsolomonomaha.org

Sunday School......8:45 a.m. Sunday Morning......10:00 a.m. Bible Study, Tuesdays......6:00 - 7:30 p.m. Prayer Service, Wednesdays......12 noon Journey to Tomorrow, Out Next Step Judges 18:4-6

Page Nine

Rev. Michael Voithofer

ABLAZE HOUSE OF PRAYER

11501 Fairview Road, Springfield, NE 68059 Ph: 402-451-6622 • Fax 402-457-6901 Contact Ablaze: email: ablazeworshipministry@gmail.com Pastor: Rev. Michael Voithofer

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

SACRED HEART CATHOLIC CHURCH Fr. Dave Korth

Drs. Martin & Lynnell Williams Founders & Lead Pastors

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

MORNING STAR BAPTIST CHURCH BETHEL MISSIONARAY BAPTIST CHURCH Rev. Dr. Lorenzo S.L. Fincher Senior Pastor 5318 South 30th Street Omaha, NE 68107 Phone: (402) 731-1840 “Large enough to serve you, Small enough to know you”

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

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

Church of the Living God “A great place to call home.” Pastor Overseer Dr. Claude White 2029 Binney Street Omaha, Nebraska 68110 402-451-4742

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

Come and hang out with us on our corner

Weekly Services

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

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

SALEM BAPTIST CHURCH

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

MOUNT CALVARY COMMUNITY CHURCH

“Jesus is the Light of the World” Bishop Kevin Chambers, Senior Pastor www.m3comaha.org 5112 Ames Avenue Omaha, NE 68104 (402) 457-4216 Church Phone (402) 453-4084 Pastor’s Office

www.facebook.com/cotlg33.org

Overseer Dr. Claude White

Fr. Dave Korth

2019 Burdette Street Omaha, NE 68110 Ph: 402-342-0018

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

Bishop Kevin Chambers

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

Rev. Dr. Selwyn Q. Bachus

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.

Sunday School ———————- 9:30 a.m. Morning Worship —————— 10:45 a.m.

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

CLAIR MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

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

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

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Pastor Barbara Mitchell Rev. T. Michael Williams

Dr. Ralph B. Lassiter

Elder Howard Dixon

MT. MORIAH MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

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

Rev. Morita Truman, Lead Pastor Services on Sundays at 8:30 am & 10:50 am 7020 Cass Street, Omaha, NE 68132 402.556.6262 www.fumcomaha.org First United Methodist Church is a welcoming and inclusive community, inspired to grow with and in God.

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

ZION BAPTIST CHURCH Rev. Kenneth A. Allen, Pastor 2215 Grant Street Omaha, NE 68110 Ph: 402-346-1502 Fax: 402-344-2720

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

Rev. Morita Truman

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

Pastor Kenneth A. Allen

Pastor Terry L. Arvie

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.

SUNDAY Sunday Morning Worship……………10:00 A.M. Sunday School……………………….. 9:00 A.M. WEDNESDAY 11:00 A.M. ~ Hour of Power Bible Study Wednesday is Family Night! 6:00 P.M. ~ Prayer & Praise Service 6:30 P.M. ~ Feast & Fellowship (Light Meal) 7:15 P.M. ~ Discipleship Academy (Classes for ages 5 & up)

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

HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH

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

THE WORSHIP CENTER

“Where CHRIST is Preeminent and the Word Prevails!”

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

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

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

Pastor Brian Page

JOY OF LIFE MINISTRIES COGIC

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

Pastors Eric and Cynthia Butler

Thursday: Youth For Christ ............................................6:00 p.m Prayer & Bible Study ....................................6:30 p.m

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

PLEASANT GREEN BAPTIST CHURCH

Sunday: Sunday School.................................................9:00 a.m. Morning Worship..........................................10:15 a.m. Pastor Eric Butler and Co-Pastor Cynthia Butler

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

Dr. Stan Rone Senior Pastor

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

THE CULTURE

Page Ten THE OMAHA STAR

April 29, 2022

Protect Your Health, Invest in Self

By Dr. Richard Brown Ph.D., FACHE REACH*

Racial and ethical approaches to community health (REACH) is a periodic column featuring articles that focus on reducing health disparities in the African American community. It will include topics submitted by Creighton University Health Sciences Multicultural and Community Affairs (HS-MACA) department. Health is described in many ways. Some define health as the absence of disease and illness. Others say it occurs when the physical, mental and spiritual elements of the human are in balance with each other. The World Health Organization defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” Irrespective of how one defines health, I believe that all that we become or that we acquire in life is a result of living a healthy life style. Most people would love to live to be 100 years old or more and to earn large sums of money and be as successful as they can be. Of course, success means different things to different people. Everything that you need to be successful was given to you at birth. We each have the same tools that everyone

else was given, who is considered successful such as your favorite millionaire, politician, teacher, entertainer, lawyer, doctor, parent or mechanic. They were all born with a brain and 24 hours a day. What we do with our brains and our 24 hours determines our success during the short time that we spend on earth. The brain is the most important organ in the body. It absorbs information constantly from birth to death. It contains more data than the average desk top computer or cell phone that we use daily. The problem is that we can’t always retrieve the information as easily or as quickly as a computer. Through the functions of our brain, we can change our environment to fit our wants and desires. We make clothes, shoes, cars, trains, planes, houses, and weapons. We have been given the ability to make different choices about how we live. Unlike lower forms of animal life, we have been given the ability to learn and think and pass information on to our off spring through written and oral communication. Lower animals survive merely on instinct and innate abilities to survive and be successful. They eat sleep, reproduce and follow a few set of basic rules from which they do not deviate. The strongest and most feared animal in the jungle, from whom many believe humans descended, is the gorilla, a vegetarian. Because humans have choices, we participate in many forms of risky behavior that damages the brain and other parts of the healthy body. Man will smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol, consume illegal drugs, and eat unhealthy food such as excessive amounts of sugar, salt, and red meat. These risky behaviors tend to shorten life. Lower animals do not participate in these behaviors and thus, their lives

are maximized based on their natural longevity. They will not smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol or knowingly consume illegal drugs. Additionally, you will not see human milk sold in the grocery store. A mother’s milk is the natural nutrient designed to sustain life of the human offspring during the early months of life. Humans have contaminated their body systems such that it is risky to feed some human milk to their babies. Milk from lower animals can be found in the grocery store from cows and goats because they don’t have the choices that man has to contaminate their bodies. There are other artificial milk products available for purchase and consumption from the grocery store as well. Human choices have caused us to become too fat, experience high blood pressure, strokes, and cancer that shortens life. Unfortunately, some animals have been found to develop obesity, diabetes, and cancer in recent years. Why? The answer is because they live with humans and are eating the same bad food and get less exercise than normal. To protect your health, invest in self and increase your chances of being successful and living a long life, I encourage you to do the following: 1. Eat 5 servings of fruits and vegetables a day. 2. Reduce read meat consumption. 3. Avoid consuming excess sugar and salt. 4. Don’t smoke, if you do, stop. 5. Participate in regular rigorous exercise at least 3 times a week until you sweat. 6. Drink water every day until your urine is clear. 7. Establish a relationship with a medical provider and get a physical examination annually. “Get Heathy Wealthy and Happy”

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April 29, 2022

THE OMAHA STAR Page Eleven

Managing your taxes in retirement is just as important as managing your retirement income By Michael L. Green The following was taken in part from Kiplinger’s Retirement Newsletter. Here are some sources of income and how there are taxed at the federal level. Social Security benefits. At some level they aren’t taxed by the IRS. However, some of it is taxed. To determine your tax liability, start with line income on line 9 of your 1040 or 1040-SR and subtract your social security benefits, and add back any tax-free municipal bond interest, plus 50% of your Social Security benefits. If the result is less than $25,000 you owe no taxes on your benefits. If the number is higher then up to 85% of your

benefits are taxable as ordinary income. IRAs, 401(k)s, and pensions. Any withdrawals from IRAs and 401(k)s are taxed as ordinary income. After tax or nondeductible contributions are excluded. You can delay withdrawals until age 72 and if you work past age 72 you can delay taking withdrawals from your 401(k) until you retire, provided you don’t own more than 5% of the company for whom you work. Withdrawals prior to age 59s ½ are subject to a 10% penalty in addition to the income tax. Roth IRAs have no RMDs and withdrawals are tax free as long as you’ve held the account for fived years. The 10% penalty applies to Roths for withdrawals before 59 ½. Pensions payments are taxed as ordinary income unless you have made nondeductible contributions to a plan. Investments. Capital gains from selling appreciated stocks, bonds, or mutual funds held more than one year are taxed at a more favorable rate than ordinary income. The rates are 0%, 15%, or 20% depending on your income

in the year the sale occurred. If you’re a single tax payer and your modified adjusted gross income e(MAGI) is over $200,000, or you’re filing jointly and your MAGI is over $250,000, you’ll be subject to an additional 3.8% surtax. Investments held less than one year before they’re sold are taxed as ordinary income. If you sell something at a loss, the loss can offset your capital gain for that year plus $3,000 of other income. Excess losses can be carried forward to future years indefinitely until they’re used up. Most dividends are taxed at capital gains rates. However, some nonqualified dividends are taxed as ordinary income. Interest income on savings accounts, certificates of deposits, money markets and interest on corporate bonds is taxed as ordinary income. Municipal bonds are federal tax free. When you sell municipal or corporate bonds, they’re are taxed at capital gains rates. Interest on EE and I US savings bonds are taxed at ordinary rates either when the Green continued on page 12

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Clinic

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Insured & Bonded Professional

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5620 Ames Ave • Omaha NE 68104

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primusjonesservices@gmail.com

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Information

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

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

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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

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For information on performances 402-201-1776

Insurance

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

1211999

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Mobile Food

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Shoes PALACE

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candntrans41@yahoo.com

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• Residential Services • Discounts for Seniors

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

NAID AAA Certified

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

Have you heard about the Business Connection? To advertise your business, please contact Terri Sanders.

Mike 239-292-6647

Andrew: 239-994-0319

Residential Services

Residential and Commercial Real Estate Agents

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

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

ALLY INSURANCE BROKERS OF OMAHA

2 and 2 Contracting

402-990-0471

John Lord, LUTCF, RHU® Agent

Services are Free but donations accepted

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

Offering screenings for STDs, HIV, High Blood Pressure and Diabetes Limited Care for Chronic Illnesses

Makayla,Son & Oldham, LLC

A. Rose

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In the community, for the community

402-677-8126 Carpet Cleaning Stripping and waxing floors Construction cleanup One time cleaning Regular contract cleaning

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Construction TAYLORD SPACES.COM

Jones Cleaning Services

COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL

PRESIDENT/ CEO

Barber Shop A CUT ABOVE DOWN NORTH Meet your new barber:

402.641.6220 6005 Sorenson Pkwy Omaha, NE 68152

Attorney at Law

Candle Boutique

Banking

PROVIDING A+ SERVICE TO OMAHA AND THE SURROUNDING AREA

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publisher@omahastarinc.com

YOUTH/EDUCATION NEWS Calling all Past Mandela Graduates! mature or when you redeem them.

Page Twelve THE OMAHA STAR

April 29, 2022

Green continued from page 11

Nelson Mandela Elementary is seeking alumni volunteers to assist with programming for summer 2022. Volunteers will have the opportunity to be paired with a classroom and assist with activities like sports, skateboarding, gardening, and more. This is a great opportunity for alumni to reunite with their classmates and reconnect with their school through service. All interested alumni can visit https://nelsonmandelaelementary.org/ to apply. Follow us on Facebook at https://facebook.com/NelsonMandelaElementary to stay up to date on all things Mandela!

Annuities. If you bought an annuity that is producing retirement income, a portion of each payment that your received that is part of the principal is tax free. If you made tax deductible payments or pre tax payments to buy the annuity, then all of your payments will be taxed as ordinary income. So, if you took savings in a tax-deductible IRA and put them into an annuity all of the payments coming out will be taxed. Home Sales. $250,000 of profits from selling your home are tax free for single filers, and $500,000 for joint filers. The home must be your primary residence and you must have lived in it for at least two of the five years immediately preceding the sale. Reverse Mortgages. Proceeds from or payments you receive from a reverse mortgage are not taxable because they are considered a loan. You cannot deduct the interest you will pay either. Life Insurance. Any proceeds you get from a life insurance policy are generally tax free to the beneficiary. “You’ve worked hard for your money, make it work for you.” The preceding is offered for information only. You should consult an investment or tax professional for advice about your specific situation.

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