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Nebraska’s Only Black Owned Newspaper Vol. 82 - No. 2 Omaha, Nebraska
Friday, January 24, 2020
Gladys Harrison Cooks Up a Run For Congress By Tanya Cooper
After the beloved Patricia “Big Mama” Barron passed in 2018, her daughter Gladys Harrison needed her “can do” attitude to lead her family and business out of that dark time. Today, Big Mama’s Kitchen and Catering is serving up its signature dishes at Highlander’s new Dining Room, 2112 N. 30th St. Along with oven-fried chicken and sweet potato pie, pudding and cheesecake, the family’s soul food kitchen continues to serve quality and community to its guests. As Big Mama’s legacy lives on, Gladys has time to consider what she wants, what her dreams are and her next move in creating her own legacy. The true definition of a “formidable woman,” Gladys has decided to make a political move and run for Nebraska’s 2nd District congressional seat now held by Republican Don Bacon. “I want people to know that we all do better when we ALL do better!” she says. “We have to find a way to look past our differences and work together, no matter what color we are, no matter who we love or our political differences. In order to do what is best for everyone, we have to work together.” Her three legislative platforms are healthcare, education and economic equality for working people. “When I talk about representing ‘US’ I am talking about representing anyone who gets up and goes to work every single Gladys Harrison day,” she says. “I am running for Congress because I want to represent those who have to make decisions about which bills they can afford to pay while still working more than one job. Currently no one is representing working people. Big businesses have lobbyists that speak to their interests, but there is a gap when it comes to the interest of the worker. I want to fill that gap.” Gladys wants people to know she is fair and concerned with local issues and those that affect our country. Growing up around other cultures increased her capacity to get along, communicate and maneuver in different environments. “If you are blessed enough to have a good job with great benefits, you don’t have to worry about how to pay your rent, your lights, your gas, and your phone bill. If you don’t get exposed to people who don’t have those concerns, you will believe that everyone is living like you,” she says. “The truth is most people are not!” She wants people to know that she is not excluding the voice of the 1%, but that everyone’s concerns need to See Gladys Harrison continued on page 3
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UNMC’s Sheritta Strong Named Interim Director of Inclusion The University of Nebraska Medical Center has announced that Sheritta Strong, M.D., will become the interim director of inclusion effective Feb. 1. “We are delighted that Dr. Strong has agreed to serve UNMC in this very important role,” said UNMC Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D. “She has just the right complement of skills, experiences and connections to our communities to be the ideal candidate to help UNMC meet our goals in the areas of inclusion and to collaborate with our sister campuses and our central administration leaders in the diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) areas.” “As announced last week, the UNMC and UNO campuses expressed aspirations that each campus will pursue its own unique challenges and opportunities in its commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion,” Dr. Gold said. “Therefore, we decided to end the search for a combined position of assistant vice chancellor for inclusion serving UNO/UNMC and build upon the strengths of each campus, our sister campuses and our central administration DEI areas of excellence.” “I am honored to be appointed the interim director of inclusion,” said Dr. Strong, who was recently honored by being designated a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, its highest recognition. “With my work in mental health and higher education, I bring a unique perspective regarding the emotional health aspects of further cultivating an inclusive and diverse campus.” Dele Davies, M.D., senior vice chancellor for academic affairs, applauded the news of Dr. Strong’s appointment. “I have had the privilege of knowing and working with Dr. Strong for the past eight years,” Dr. Davies said. “She is clearly devoted to a welcoming culture at UNMC and will be invaluable to us as we continue toward our strategic goals of diversity, inclusion and equity for our faculty, staff and students.” An Omaha native and an 11-year faculty member in the department of psychiatry, Dr. Strong is an adult psychiatrist with primary interests in the treatment of chronic and persistent mental illness. She is an advocate for those affected by mental illness and is passionate about reducing barriers to quality care by increasing community awareness of mental illness and its impact on our society. Dr. Strong is a leader in undergraduate medical education at UNMC. She is co-director of medical
Sheritta Strong, M.D. student education for the department of psychiatry, coordinating all aspects of pre-clinical psychiatry training at UNMC. Dr. Strong said she believes that by continuing to build a culture of kindness, teamwork and accountability within our campus, we can welcome more diversity in our students, staff and faculty. She said she recognizes the importance of diversity of thought in creating a more inclusive and diverse environment through relationship building within the organization and the greater Nebraska community. “An environment based on individuals feeling comfortable to be themselves, regardless of their background or experiences, is a place where we all want to work and prosper,” she said. “As we recruit and retain the finest learners and graduates, I understand that tapping into an amazing sphere that desires a space to grow and hear from a variety of perspectives is integral to our success as a unit. I invite everyone to engage in UNMC’s strategy of being an exemplary culturally sensitive, diverse and inclusive organization.” Dr. Strong has been the recipient of several awards locally and nationally including the Women in Medicine Award from the National Coalition of Negro Women, the UNMC Alumni Early Career Achievement Award, and the American Psychiatric Association’s Nancy C.A. Roeske, M.D. Award, which is awarded to individuals who have made outstanding and sustaining contributions to medical student education. Dr. Strong is a member of the Nebraska Psychiatric Society, the National Medical Association, the Omaha Chapter of the Links Inc. and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.
Preston Love Jr. Is as Busy as Ever Advancing MLK’s Dream election year and he runs the Black Votes Matter Institute of Community Engagement, a The white-haired man is nonprofit organization that aims seated at the crowded desk in a to educate and mobilize voters. He’s busy because this is the crammed office, jam-packed with books, plaques, flyers, photos, third year he is hosting Omaha boxes, duct-taped chairs and youths on a bus tour of historic somewhere, an empty coffee cup civil rights stops in the American South, and this time Love has for the full pot in the corner. This is the workspace of a booked a second bus for adults. He’s busy because he teaches busy man, and Preston Love Jr. is quite busy. He’s too busy for a class on the African American lunch at noon. He is almost too experience in politics at the busy to talk to a columnist who University of Nebraska at showed up to discuss Martin Omaha. He and his wife, Martha, Luther King Jr. and the ticking also do a weekly radio program. clock on firsthand memories of Love writes a twice-a-month newspaper column for the Omaha the civil rights icon. Love is busy because it’s an Star. He has selfpublished two nonfiction books and a children’s book on civil rights with a Spanish translation that’s set to come out this spring. He holds press conferences about issues of race and economic justice and speaks Preston Love Jr. is preparing to lead his third publicly and bus tour for Omaha youths of historic civil conducts tours of rights locations in the South. his native North Brendan Sullivan/World-Herald Omaha. By Erin Grace World-Herald staff writer
Hungry Club – Jan 31. See In the Village
Most of all, Love is busy because he’s 77, one year past a stroke and knows that time is all too short. He is burying contemporaries, like photographer Rudy Smith, who died Dec. 5 after a career devoted to capturing what Love calls “the struggle” in Omaha for The World-Herald. He is preparing to mourn civil rights giants like his friend John Lewis, the Georgia congressman and civil rights hero diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Though Love is mostly recovered from his stroke, he hears the clock ticking more loudly these days. He still has so much to do, especially in educating the young. And now he’s got this duty – talking to me about MLK and the slipping away of a generation with firsthand knowledge of the civil rights era. But before we can get to King, Love grabs a piece of paper off the stacks on his desk and says, triumphantly, “Look!” It’s a summary of a recent meeting Love had with Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts over their shared concerns about the state’s beleaguered prison system. Ricketts is a conservative Republican and supporter of President Donald Trump. Love, an ardent Democrat, has a poster
Preston Love Jr. didn’t know Martin Luther King Jr. But he is close with some of his contemporaries, such as Rep. John Lewis and the Rev. Jesse Jackson. Brendan Sullivan/World-Herald
on his wall that shows Trump and the words: “When you don’t vote, THIS happens.” The governor decided to open the issue to the public for discussion. Corrections Director Scott Frakes is on the calendar for two upcoming events in North Omaha, and Love is thrilled that he achieved his goal of opening a communications channel, which he says brings “awesome potential.” A Ricketts spokesman said the governor looked forward to
hearing from the North Omaha community. So back to King. He would be 91 today. Some of the cadre of civil rights warriors like Lewis, who was arrested, jailed and beaten numerous times, notably during the “Bloody Sunday” march in 1965 in Selma, Alabama, are still alive, and Love knows them personally. Love is clear that he wasn’t See Preston Love Jr. continued on page 2
Out of Omaha Screening at UNO – Feb. 13
Black College Tour Meeting – Feb. 6.
See In the Village
See In the Village
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Preston Love Jr. continued from page 1 part of the King-era marches and sitins. He was a college student, first at Northwestern University and then at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he played football for coach Bob Devaney. But Love was living and working in Atlanta in the early 1980s, when Lewis was on the Atlanta City Council and running for Congress. Love, at the time, was working for City Hall. He had been a driver for Mayor Andrew Young, a prominent civil rights leader who formerly led the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, and became commissioner of planning for the City of Atlanta. Love considered Coretta Scott King, Martin Luther King Jr.’s widow, a confidante, and he called her about whether he should take a job with Jesse Jackson’s 1984 presidential campaign. (King said no; Love did it anyway, serving as Jackson’s deputy campaign manager.) Proximity to these civil rights warriors who knew King and marched with him made a difference for Love, imbuing him with the values, ideas and political strategies he’d tap into much later. But before he can talk about that, the cable guy is here to fix a bum line that has, temporarily, incapacitated the TV and his computer in this crowded, decrepit office a block from North Omaha’s historic heart at 24th and Lake. Love tries to stay in the know and be in constant touch. He sees himself as a voice for black Omahans, but that voice needs a working Internet. King once said the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice. But what about the arc of historical memory? Does it bend toward amnesia? Such a lofty figure as King can veer, these many years later, to the mythical. Hearing about him and his legacy from people who lived through the civil rights era makes King more real. This is why people like Love are so important. Like World War II veterans or Holocaust survivors, African Americans alive during “the struggle” and civil rights movement
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and politics, but he said in hindsight that those years were formative. He was in survival mode. Love returned to Omaha in 2006 at age 63. His famous father had died in 2004. His mother, Betty, was ailing. She died in 2007. Love then buried one of his four children, daughter Natalie, who died of cancer in 2009. Love had figured he’d slide back into Omaha life, help care for his mother and ease into retirement. But what he saw shocked and depressed him. North Omaha was much less vibrant. Some once-active neighborhoods and streets looked desolate. Gangs were taking lives. He saw a need and wanted to rise to it, using himself as a voice for issues from voting to education. “We all have our God-given assignments,” Love said. “They just evolve from your life experiences. You are who you are because of where you’ve been. When I came home, it occurred to me that I had been trained for what I had to do. I had been trained by Andy Young. I had been trained by John Lewis. I had been trained by Jesse.” Behind them all was King. King was one person. A single, influential person who captured the nation’s attention and conscience. But he did not work alone and the many alongside him or, like Love, a degree removed, were influenced. They remained in “the struggle,” picking up the flag King dropped when he was assassinated in 1968. King was killed. But his work continues and his story gets retold through the current labors of people like Love. When he’s organizing getout-the-vote activities, he invokes King. When he’s teaching students about African American political history, he honors King. When he’s taking young people on a tour of Memphis, Birmingham, Selma, Montgomery and Atlanta, he follows in the footsteps of King. Love might be too busy to talk about King. But his actions speak.
are firsthand witnesses to history. An hour into our visit, Love finally got to the subject, King. About how people of every age know him but don’t REALLY know him. How you can’t know who Martin Luther King Jr. is until you know about the struggle for racial justice. How that struggle is bigger than any one person. Love lived the struggle. Though his father, Preston Love, was a famous jazz saxophonist, fame did not mean fortune, and the Love family was poor like most of the black families Love remembers from his childhood in North Omaha. He grew up in redlined, Jim Crow Omaha. He lived in racially segregated housing – poor whites on one side of the Logan Fontenelle public housing project; blacks on the other. He attended schools, Tech High and UNL, where he majored in economics, that were not by law but were in practice racially segregated. Even from his own perch as a star athlete, Love experienced as a young man the divide King was trying to bridge. He recalls a Cotton Bowl trip to Dallas, when Devaney was told that Love and the other black Husker football players were not welcome at the team’s hotel. (Devaney took the whole team to another hotel.) After college, at IBM – first in Des Moines; then Kansas City, Kansas; Cleveland; Detroit; and White Plains, New York, where Love was trained and promoted – co-workers at one training session sang “Dixie” in his presence. It was an effort to poke him and several other black IBM workers. Love left IBM and opened his own computer store in Atlanta in 1980. The business ultimately failed, but Love succeeded in making important relationships with King contemporaries. Being around them, he said, “was being around Martin.” The rest of Love’s biography goes like this: An off-and-on addiction to alcohol and other drugs that cost him about a decade when he was in his 50s. He moved around and took odd jobs, driving a garbage truck, cleaning a power plant, spinning cotton candy. It was a big fall from Love’s former perch on the playing fields of business
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National Anthem Applications Accepted Through March 13 College World Series of Omaha Inc. is hosting national anthem auditions for the 2020 NCAA Men’s College World Series. The deadline for submitting applications is 5 p.m. March 13. Musicians and singers from across the nation compete each year to perform for crowds averaging about 20,000 people per game. Singers and musicians can submit applications at CWSOmaha.com. Applicants must provide one a cappella rendition of the “Star-Spangled Banner” performed by the applicant(s) by providing a link (e.g., a YouTube video) or by downloading a music file. Performances submitted must be no more than one year old and contain no voice enhancements, background music or other special effects. Applicants may only apply once as either a soloist, duo or group. Due to space limitations, groups larger than 15 individuals are discouraged from applying. A panel of judges will review all submissions and inform applicants of their status by late March. The top 30 applicants will receive an invitation to audition live at TD Ameritrade Park Omaha on April 25 beginning at 8:30 a.m. Seventeen finalists will be selected to perform at the 2020 College World Series, which runs from June 13-23 (or 24).
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Camille A. Brown & Dancers to Perform at Orpheum Theater Omaha Performing Arts presents Camille A. Brown and Dancers Feb. 21 at the Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. This show is sponsored by the Lincoln Financial Group. Tickets are available at TicketOmaha.com, in person at the Ticket Omaha Box Office, inside the Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St., or by phoning 402.345.0606. Camille A. Brown and Dancers is a Bessie Awardwinning, New York City-based dance company advancing the artistic vision of Camille A. Brown. Founded in 2006, the company performs locally and across the world, inviting audiences into stories and dialogues about race, culture, and identity. The work uses theatricality and the aesthetics of modern, hip hop, African, ballet, and tap to tell stories that connect history with contemporary culture. Award-winning artistic director of the group, Camille A. Brown was the choreographer for the Emmy Award
Winning special “Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert” and choreographer for The Tony Award Winning Revival of “Once On This Island” on Broadway.
Groups Support Nebraska Climate Resolution LR 294 Nebraska Interfaith Power & Light and Nebraskans for Peace state their support for LR 294, a resolution drafted by students from Prairie Hill Learning Center stating that the Nebraska Legislature has a moral obligation to take steps to combat the climate crisis. LR 294 was introduced by Senator Rick Kolowski along with 11 co-introducers. “We encourage all people of faith, conscience and good will to support this resolution,” said Ken Winston, Director of Policy and Outreach for Nebraska Interfaith Power & Light. The resolution reflects the amount and depth of research the students have undertaken to understand the
and future generations.” “We encourage Nebraskans to contact their state senators and ask them to support LR 294,” said Winston. “When the resolution is scheduled for hearing, we encourage people to show their support for LR 294 through calls, letters and emails to the members of the Natural Resources Committee as well as through testimony at the hearing. Although we would prefer that policy makers take more direct action to address the causes and impacts of the climate crisis, this resolution sends an important message about the need to address this crisis.”
scope and seriousness of the climate crisis. It cites numerous studies and reports, including reports from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the Fourth National Climate Assessment, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the University of Nebraska Lincoln about the impacts of the climate crisis both globally and locally. “It is a shame that young people have to lead on addressing the climate crisis, but when they do, it is important for adults to support their efforts,” said Winston. “We hope that policymakers will pay attention to the universal messages of faith traditions that call for us to care for our children
Gladys Harrison continued from page 1 be heard. Over the last 30 years the working class has not seen any financial gain, she says. Yes, the working class makes more money, but that is offset by the fact that it takes more money to live. Gladys got her first taste of politics by running for and winning State President of Future Leaders of America as a Marian high school student. She then traveled to Washington, DC for training and visited the U.S. House of Representatives. That experience convinced her that she wanted to serve her country by running for office. However, life stepped in and derailed her plans when she got pregnant in high school. The baby girl, who she named Patricia after her mom, was born with a heart defect and passed away at 3 years old. She lost her second child at 6 months old and miscarried her third child, all by the age of 20. Gladys was “in a dark place,” she says, admitting she turned briefly to alcohol to ease her pain. Surviving this experience is another reason she is running. The Congressional candidate says, “Good mental health care is not something Black people always have access to.” She wants to see the stigma of mental health care removed so people are not hesitant to get help. Gladys credits Qwest Communications, where she worked for 22 years, for giving her a life-saving job with benefits and sending her to college. While there, she learned about unions and how they equalize the success of companies by looking out for the employee. While at Qwest, she says, God restored things that were taken from her. She was blessed with three healthy children and is now a grandmother. She served as a union steward for most of her career there. She believes the reason there is a wealth gap is because unions do not have the power they once had. Certain jobs that were once protected by unionization and special licenses have been lost. As a former union steward, Gladys says she does not agree with the reinstatement of the Omaha Firefighters Union President Steve LeClair. He was fired for disorderly conduct and assault against a Black woman in 2019. “After looking at all the evidence I do not understand how he got his job back,” she says. “As a Black woman I was devastated. The message that it sends is (that) I have no value and you can do whatever you want to me and it doesn’t matter.” Gladys says she was married and in an abusive relationship for five years and devalued in much the same way. “We have to hold people accountable for their actions,” she says. Gladys wants to be accountable and address a statement made about her by the National Republican Campaign Committee in 2019. It was made after she formed an exploratory committee to look at running for congress. Republicans pointed to her “criminal record,” and denounced her as a bad choice for the Democrats. Gladys says while it is true she had some troubles with the law, the story failed to give any details, so here they are: while
working as a teenager at Shopko 34 years ago, a friend came through her line. The young woman had a microwave and several smaller items. Gladys did not ring up the microwave. After her friend left the store, Gladys felt guilty and told her manager what she had done. The two were arrested and spent the weekend in jail on a Theft by Deception charge. She says she will never forget the embarrassment and hurt she caused her parents as they accompanied her to court. This was worse than any legal punishment she could have received. She also talked about a Failure to Appear ticket on her record. As a young mother, she could not afford to license her car and received a ticket. She was supposed to go to court and pay the ticket. Her payday wasn’t until a week after her court date, so she didn’t go to court and a warrant was issued for her arrest. She paid the ticket the following week and got her plates. In hindsight, she says, ‘Sometimes people do stupid things when they are young, but it should not be the only moment that defines them. Once a person does their time they should be able to participate fully, and be a benefit to society.” This is another reason why she wants to run; she can relate to so many experiences real people have had. Gladys strongly encourages the North Omaha community to get involved in politics. “That is the only way to change things,” she says. “The things that affect our everyday lives are determined by people we elect. If you have ever been arrested, your life was affected by a judge we vote in every two years.” If you feel the process does not represent you, she concluded, get involved in the process. While campaigning and talking with people, she is surprised at how many do not vote because they feel it is rigged or their vote doesn’t count. “This is the lie the people who currently hold power want you to believe, so you won’t go to the polls. They keep getting in because we took ourselves out of the game!” On the topic of voter suppression, she says she has seen things in Omaha that she wants to believe are just honest mistakes. People have told her they were registered for years and now they are not, or their polling place changed without notice. “The community has enough working against us,” she says. “We don’t need to work against ourselves.” Gladys believes that current politicians need to share their experience and knowledge with new candidates, especially about the costs associated with running for office so they know what to expect. The filing fee for Gladys to run for congress was $1,700. This makes it plain if you don’t have the money you cannot get in the game. She believes money should not be a barrier to serve in political office, even though in most cases, it is. Gladys Harrison is 100 percent willing to share her knowledge with everyone, “Because we all do better when we ALL do better!”
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Help the Omaha Star Find Its Missing Issues Complete the Nebraska State Historical Society Archives On June 2 representatives of the Nebraska State Historical Society took bound copies of some of the Omaha Star’s earliest issues with them to Lincoln. The five bound books will complete issues missing from the state archives for the past sixty years, ranging from September 17, 1938 through October 26, 1951. The Mildred D. Brown Memorial Study Center (MDBMSC) Board is working with the Nebraska Historical Society to create a complete Library Archive of the past and current issues of the Omaha Star. Although many years of newspapers have been microfilmed by the Omaha Public Library and the Nebraska Historical Society, many issues are missing. We are asking readers, who may have copies of the issues that are listed, to please bring them to the Omaha Star to be microfilmed. The issues will be returned to you. The MDBMSC was formed to continue the legacy of Mildred Brown the founder and publisher of the Omaha Star. The purpose of the Study Center is to provide area students with scholarship support and opportunities to envision career possibilities in journalism and communications through educational programs, field trips, tutoring and mentoring. They are also provided access to resources and inspirational archive materials. The Omaha Star and its affiliated foundation, the Mildred D. Brown Memorial Study Center, are seeking any copies of the following issues: July 8, 1939 to Mar. 15, 1940 May 3, 1940 July 4, 1952 June 29, 1962 Feb. 14, 1964 Apr. 29, 1967 Feb. 29, 1968 Mar. 21, 1968 to Mar. 28, 1968 May 2, 1968 May 23, 1968 July 18, 1968 Aug. 8, 1968 to Aug. 15, 1968 Nov. 14, 1968 May 29, 1969
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Festival Self-Empowerment St. Paul Baptist Church July 13th, 2010
event
Omaha City Councilman Ben Gray will commemorative 2 Omaha, Nebraska deliver a address on the Monday, Jan. UNMC campus Thursday, January 18, to on 7, 2010 Rev. Martin Luther honor slain civil rights leader, 50 cents King Jr. Gray’s speech, which is sponsored The Nebraska Medical Center, by UNMC and Truhlsen Campus will be in the Events Center Center. in the Sorrell “We are pleased The Partnership to bring a city For community volunteer leader and tireless non-profit organization Our Kids, a Schools.” to campus,” Newland, M.D., that provides disadvantaged director of UNMC’s said Myrna “The Partnership The mission of students For Our Kids Staples Foundation and coordinator of Equity Office academic enrichment with positive works to for Learning Inc. the Martin Luther provide Commemoratio is to teach, train King Day received a $10,000 experiences, has mentary school disadvantaged ele- inspire. n Committee. and Founded grant from Staples “I believe our students with positive in 2002, the founda- can look forward Foundation for campus to an inspiring Learning, a private academic enrichment experiences,” tion has contributed speech.” and relevant foundation created said Briana Curran, million to national more than $17 manager, Staples The and Funding from SFFL by Staples Inc. Foundation that provide educationallocal charities best annual address is regularly for Learning. will support the one of the city’s attended events “Staples and opportunities Winners Circle Foundation on Martin Luther job skills for all program, which for Learning supports King Jr. Day. people, with a This year, the event starts pro- Winners vides underserved the special Circle program, at noon, is free which cre- youth. emphasis on disadvantaged to the public. Guests and open dents with access elementary stu- ates an environment can park in Lot to rigorous math, Staples Foundation the visitor parking where youth are 15V, which is reading and citizenship recognized for for area located on Learning has also their achievements the south side developed lasting the Student Life Center increase their academic activities to teachers, peers, by relationships of at the corner of parents and the achievement. 40th & Jones com- of America, with Boys & Girls Clubs Streets. “The Winners munity.” Circle program Earth Force, Hispanic Gray is a first-time ensures disadvantaged Winners Circle elected city council students have and All Our Kids Heritage Foundation, and the Initiative for the 2nd District. the resources and member joined forces in for a Competitive support needed 2007 to form Prior to his election, Inner City. In addiOmaha City Councilman to Partnership develop an enthusiasm The tion, Staples Nebraska Gray had a 30-year For Our Kids, to Ben Gray Foundation for a television for learning,” Vol. 72 - No. 28 Omaha, help dis- supports said Beth Smith, career as nered Learning photojournalis Executive Director, advantaged students. The Partnership Ashoka, an with the emergency “Kaleidoscope” t Winners Circle on Omaha’s ABC’s and host of Nebraska develops and supportsorganization that KETV department at Program of The creates a community of caring Medical Center affiliate station, NewsWatch social entreprePartnership For dents from pre-kindergarten for stu- neurs around to use intervention The Our Kids. “With discussions about 7. The show featured passionate gies to decrease youth the world, in nine stratesup- high school through tries: port from Staples violence, such a variety of Argentina, Belgium, coun- Gray has to help Foundation for as immediate community issues. engagement after violent won multiple Learning we can taged youth graduate more disadvan- Canada, Brazil, incidents to reduce local, regional tion attempts. continue France, Germany, awards as a reporter, and pursue highretaliaand national grades and standardized to increase er education the photojournalist In 1998, Gray to become employable Netherlands, Spain and test scores for Gray and dedicates host. and his wife, youth throughout the productive citizens United much of his time States. For more Freddie, began ing with the African-Americ Omaha Public lives of severely who give back information about workto foundation their community. at-risk youth and to improving the to close the an Achievement or how to apply gang members. the achievement Council for a grant, is the emergency team He Omaha gaps of children visit www. staplesfoundation Community Connection, director for Impact Public School in the .org. (OPS) District. Inc. — a non-profit, One A sought lence prevention vio- his Martin after motivational speaker, organization. Its members Gray titled Luther King Jr. part- Love,” Day speech, “Strength after one of Dr. to King’s most read books.
Vol. 72 - No.
Partnership For $10,000 grant Our Kids receives from Staples
★OS THE
MAHA TAR
Cause of the People that NO Good Dedicated to the Service that Evil Shall Not Go Unopposed Shall Lack a Champion and
Newspaper Nebraska’s Only Black Owned
KS Science Fair
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Details on page 4
Empowerment Network
meeting canceled
next meeting will has been cancelled. The Network Monthly Meeting will begin at 9 a.m. This Saturday’s Empowerment Breakfast and networking High School - Viking Center. be held Aug. 14 at North meeting will begin at 9:30. Displays to help Parents, and the interactive community Development. Tables and Partner. Education and Youth become a Mentor or Adopt-A-Class The focus will be on Opportunity to sign up to Presentations & Families, Students & Community. to help students succeed PLUS Special Interactive ways Learn more about specific m. Discussions. the web at www.empoweromaha.co 502-5153 or visit us on For more information call
50 cents
ates Omaha Star Celebr 72nd Anniversary
Excellence Winn
ers
North Omaha Boys & Girls Club Welcomes Club Members New and Old for the New Year On Jan. 4 the North Omaha
Special Thanks
MILDRED D. BROWN 9, 1938
Dr. Marguerita L. Washington,
Founded Omaha Star July
Publisher
homes as you are hardly can continue to repair and buy I of the people that no good money and invest it now doing, save your “Dedicated to the service Boys & Girls new and old Club believe that the that evil shall not go bonds that you Club opened members. The its doors tocause shall lack a champion and wisely. Buy more Savings a new year with Omaha Star has Club staff looks new Club parents if and when things forward to beginning unopposed.” may be comfortable age appropriate been in existence for and members. programs for We offer a variety change. kids ages gram areas such seventy-two years of a former pastor of to the newspaper, Mildred as, Sports, Fitness, 6-18. We offer five core Reverend Joseph Forbes, Leadership Development, pro- In an introduction and I have been the & Recreation, said, “Mildred was Character & Gilbert wrote: Education & Career St. John A. M. E. Church Life Skills, and publisher for the It is with profound pleaDevelopment, she made her paper The Health & To the Citizens of Omaha: a friend of the pastors ... from certain schools Arts. We are also offering last twenty years. It She Publishing Co., and [sic] FREE transportation anytime we needed a platform. sure that the Omaha Star In order to qualify in the Omaha metro area (please seems like yesterday journalistic available ministry. She believed that call for a listing). organization of energetic, well trained a paid program for this special service all Club by saw her work as a that I started after my One entire page membership fee members this day a paper of the people, God had given her a calling. Spring program and a valid membership must have minds, give to you aunt Mildred Brown We here and now wish fee is $30.00 devoted to the work of card. Our the people and for the people. that will be valid Club hours are its was per edition was expired. Some of from 3-8 p.m. the Omaha Star dedicates Jan. 4 - May community, submitted by For more Club 7. Our to have you know that and ask for Mr. in the churches in the have been suppublic you general the information call Dave Felici, Unit serving 342-2300 existence to the task of the pastors. Director. Happy New Year porters almost from It shall be our policy the struggle for and we hope to Among her concerns was every way humanly possible. Others of see you at the the start. Brown’s primary path of duty in the behalf Club! racial equality. Mildred to move in an unerring became supporters it already had. She worked bringing to you the local Star was in selling Many others became supportfoothold in Omaha than early role in the Omaha Black America in Omaha, for equalas the years went by. sincere it, as well as the national an excellent salespermany organizations to work you I want to give my news of the city as we find of ads. She was not only of tirelessly with the National The African American ers recently. To all of backing for the welfare could use the ads as a tool She was a member of highlights, promoting and son; she found that she to ity and peace. Career and Scholarship Achievement Council Colored People thanks. to sell newspaper ads Black America in general. will have its 4th for the Advancement of is fascinating. The Omaha Fair on Saturday her activism. She refused the citizens of Omaha and the She Association Annual High Magnet Working at a newspaper from 9 A.M. to Publishers Association, sea of journalistic advenemploy black workers. School, 4410 because this is our paper. (NAACP), the Black 3 P.M. at North As we launch out into the of companies that did not N. 36th St. Those seeking Star is especially fascinating her readers to procan the support of the general League, the Urban League employment should Anyone who is interested also used editorials to encourage and she challenged National Business ture, we sincerely request and dressed for Plains Black museum. This paper is about us. come prepared in when we as a group must military success. Lunch Nebraska, and the Great with a resume and issues. Where else test the segregation of the public. The time is at hand was will be provided. information call submit their story, events Congratulation the Martin Bomber plant During the time during which it was active, she Omaha Star a firm founda557-4470. To RSVP or for s to...the King Since the recent recession, begin to build. Give the them to apply for jobs that She more Science & Technology De Porres Club, and also Science Fair. this State can this happen? and reading support and in Bellevue, Nebraska. rollerthe spokeswoman for the Students at Offutt Air Force Base tion by way of subscribing an emotional, financial after Magnet students school congratulated wrote detailed reports, the paper has also been who is widely remem- allowed it to meet in the Omaha Star building in turn will build an enterwho won awards hired Charles Washington, we will assure you that we are determined to persevere. conducted experiments and the eight Award for support their own facility. a mouthpiece and a emony. Pictured coaster at times but we civil rights, as a reporter of Excellence club ran out of funds to and presented their projects in the annual to contact us concerning are the Awards bered for his work for prise worthy of consideration, winners and the executive the 7th & 8th grade working in the commua display board Alec Williams; I encourage the public 25 first place Whitney Young, who was for the people of Omaha. She spent countless hours Luke Armitage; of Excellence winners (l or even if you want to to columnist. force at commuwinners least eventufifty mouthpiece and recommendations a before two to r): with hundred Emily Beck; complaints, the Star as Urban League and Katie Cramer. Nick Schultz; Ian Brummel; a Breakfast of Champions judges. The nity, receiving over one are certainly appreciIn addition to offering secretary of the Omaha director of the National nity service awards, including the “Unsung Heroine awards cerMadeleine Dangerfield; compliment us. Your comments community in Omaha, the ally becoming the executive for the African-American in behalf of the community Martha Winterer; by the NAACP, one of the community to realize ated. The staff is working League, contributed editorials. Award” for service awarded Gilberts also encouraged a better and more enlighten honored 16,000 African- Urban boycotts to call attention only thirty-five people in the country to be and trying to always have supported effect the buying power The country’s outstanding an paper is positive The and the was small, cater often largest film time of her death. She paper. Our staff is very if they would carefully she and her staff were festival for children and with this award by the to discrimination, and Americans could have working to satisfy you. including traditional, teens will be Lyndon B. Johnson as a businesses that employed team and they are always to making stop in Omaha also appointed by President their purchases only to CGI, collage support base and I wish well. beginning in January a tour stop-motion styles. East Germany to investigate and Live Action. We have a large religious treated the community goodwill ambassador to Film Streams African-Americans and More than ten when tries are Edward In English. Australia; for the support of the churches following the conpaper, thanks, the presents the Best of sincere violations issue coun- Recommended rights express second represented, alleged human 95 min. Specifically, in the of the New York International including works clergy leaders. ages: 9 to adult. She also worked to improve Australia, members of the North Omaha in the community and the from Children’s Film our struction of the Berlin Gilbert pointed out that (NYICFF). From least, I want to thank Festival Germany, Denmark, Finland, France, an ice cream shop carriers and her office Last but certainly not Jan. 9 to March Latvia, Sweden, the lives of the newspaper black community were patronizing which would be Feb. 6-7, 11, 13-14, there would not be Streams’ Ruth 18, Film U.K. that someone did not have Switzerland, the Ice Cream, advertisers. Without advertising, 18 — Sokolof Theater, and workers. If she learned of at 24th and Lake, Reed’s published. Advertisements nonprofit cinema, Omaha’s within the U.S. Tickets for all screenings Azur & Asmar Directed hiring practices over she would buy them bags an Omaha Star Newspaper enough food at home, will screen five Best targeted for their discriminatory an by Michel Ocelot. the printing of the publicabest programs larded The newspaper carriof the for seniors, of NYICFF are $9 general, Porres Club. Gilbert spent and retail sales pay for from groceries to supply their a decade later by the De $7 advertisers have stuck with students, teachers A dazzling animated Christmas or Easter party series continues the 2009 NYICFF. The dren, shop and counted at least tions. Many of our older us. ers often received a special and chilhour outside the ice cream Film Streams’ feature about and $4.50 Newer ones have joined approving of their work, when they might Young family two Forever Members. for Film Streams boys raised as brothers, us throughout the years. adverin gratitude for their hard one hundred African-Americans and children’s who set off on that they don’t have to dangerous quest were given all year. their purchasing power. which is made program, Streams’ All screenings will occur a Others have the feeling them receive the only gifts they through faraway hiring practices through possible in part at Film find Americans we will give Ruth Sokolof in 1989, the Omaha Star divorced in 1943, and lands to and free the port from Lincoln with tise because as African Theater, located At the time of her death Mildred and Edward Gilbert in Fairy of the Star readers look at the Financial Group. sup- the corner of 14th a circulation of 30,685 at Animation. her maiden name, Brown. our business anyway. Omaha and Mike Fahey Founded in 1997, and had a staff of twenty, and In English. France; Djinns. Mildred resumed using merly Webster) Brown wrote, for those who support us Star, the longest Mildred (forNYICFF paper 1969, Omaha the In the in of Recommended states. 99 Streets, is dedicated advertising to promoting min. thirty-nine As the publisher one block south ages: 6 to adult. from those advertisers. Cuming Street. persist? The answer intelligent, of newspaper run by a woman, we encourage them to purchase or think our readers passionate, “Why then do Negro publishers of his press, all of provocative cinematic operating black-owned refuse More information deprived neighborhood news and works for audiences For those advertisers, who is clear. If the Negro is Mildred Brown provided ages 3-18 and on all five programs Feb. 20-21, 25, 27-28, to market to, we encourage through the years since within Best helping to define than fifty years. The paper March 4 — are not important enough NYICFF Kids the tortuous gains achieved of NYICFF commentary for more compelling f a more online can be found Flix shop to ask those merchants lost, and tomorrow’s Negro by calling attention to ilm experience at www.f ilmstreams.or our readers when they his emancipation will be served an important function A kaleidoscopic Juried by such for kids. www.gkids.tv/ of the powerful forces, they don’t? If they continue people in the black commucollection of well-known filmmakers g or animated that do not advertise Why youth will be at the mercy our the accomplishments of the best John Turturro, man the ramparts of bigshort films the Omaha Star, I urge values. The newspaper as contact Casey tour. For questions, please Susan Sarandon, from around North and South that still to refuse to advertise in nity and emphasizing positive Brown got world, featuring Remember $$ Logan at 933-0259 Schamus, Matthew the James email who received awards, or and discrimination.” Mildred buying their products. stop traditional to individuals prejudice x11 otry, readers at recognized Modine From or casey@filmstr animation, CGI, collage, and Gus Sant, the festival compelled to do so. had previously been closed eams.org. and stop-motion. persisted because she felt The schedule: speak. new jobs in industries that has been described Van civic In English. she had established 65 min. Recommended readers, supporters, merThe New York It announced acts of by the first edition of her newspaper, Thanks again to my staff, Times as being to African-Americans. good ages: 3 to 8. writers and all others They highlighted one She guided the newspa- a challenge to herself and her staff, “that no “devoted to the kind of fare chants advertisers, contributing labeled “troublemakers.” pride and community charity. not Jan. 9-10, 14, of that may be found March 6-7, 11, the continued existence eras of the Civil Rights cause shall lack a champion and that evil shall 16-17, 21 — week in order to continue Academy Awards at the Razzle through the tumultuous 13-14, 18 — who lend support to making neighborhood family per staff were but not at the Dazzle Directed On the occasion per to the demonstrations Your help is greatly appreciMildred Brown and her local multiplex.” by Darren Ashton. NYICFF Party Mix in to foster a sense of community. Ms. Brown again Movement, from segregation the Omaha Star possible. for late go unopposed.” A mockumentary of their community, Brown to the racial unrest of the bright and continued future An all-animated skewering the Best of NYICFF of the 1950s and 1960s, of the Star’s ninth anniversary, ated. I look forward to a the certainly champions outspoken voice in the wilderprogram featuring absurdi- ious, features one live-action ties of competition community, congratulated The Omaha Star reported hilarcomedy and particular. She was an 1960s and early 1970s. pledged her support to the not the Star in the Omaha community.. youth dance troupe between kids on the vokingvisually stunning, and thought-profour animated of its businesses and that occurred both locally ness that the tortuous gains of their emancipation programs, involved circuit – and the triumphs and the tragedies North Omaha on the growth shorts, specifically end. up this advice for her Mildred Brown was not are lost, and she worked tirelessly toward that hyper- older parents who intended for and throughout the nation. fast development, and offered audiences. In live through get any further a Seniors Alexis English them. titles. in letting discrimination Page and Ayomide neighbors. 75 min. Recommendedor English subto urge that you interested and queen at Adekunle were Central High Star on its anniversary wishes ages: 9 to 16. The crowned Homecoming on Sept. 12, 2009. king
Career & Scholar
ship Fair
Best of the New
York International
Children’s Film
Festival
North Omaha
Development Project Community Meeting is scheduled for January 28th Details on page 10
On Monday, January 11 on NET1 and NET-HD, Sam Cooke and Marvin Gaye See page 2 for details
ip 2010 Awards
City of Omaha 's Annual MLK, Jr. celebra tion will be at the Holland Perform ing Arts Center See ad on page 10 for more information
Women of Color in Leadersh
and Engage, Business Success “Power to Lead: Leverage, for the Perpetual stewardship. the theme Adopt & Deliver” was Winters advised the in Leadership steps to 3rd Annual Women of Color Awards group of eight Summit & legacy of Leadership at the Inclusion on their per25, 2010 jourLuncheon held on June Center. sonal diversity Holiday Inn Central Conventionluncheon neys; the Over 200 people attended 1. Know self first – was Marywhere the keynote speaker am I? What do I of CEO’s Who Who Quaites-Ferris, Dr. Marguerita Frances Winters, Author for? What makes (L-R) Tanya Cook, Vicki from the Heart stand Get It; Diversity Leadership Leadership Award Recipients: of the Winters me “me”? Crowder and Soul and President Washington, Annette 2. Value self – What can become? enhance who I am and gifts? Group. How are other ences Inclusion are my unique 5. Learn about others – What can learn from differences? circle to Ms Winters spoke on Women’s is my best self? your different from me? How today. She gave Who 4 . individuals/groups 7. Include others – Expand in the business world 3. Acknowledge your Tawanna Black and Dr. Winters continued on page 2 to sustained sucmy are they the same? examples of eight steps How do differ- See Leadership to change – What are prejudices – In what 6. Value differences – contribute to Open yourself be my best self? cess: Motivation, Passion/commitment, do I exclude? How do I opportunities to grow? To Magnitude of the ways What are my blind spots? In-depth Inquiry, and and transforming, intolerance? gap, Resolve, Learning
on July 9, 1938 History was made
Please contact the Omaha Star at 402.346.4041 or by email at fwilliams@omahastarinc.com if you have complete issues, or any portion, of these missing issues.
Page Four THE OMAHA STAR
PRAISE, WORSHIP, DEVOTION, OBITUARIES & INSPIRATION
Pastor John Gray Canceled By OWN
Kids Talk About God
By Fisher Jack EURweb.com
What is the Lesson of Gideon and His 300-Man Army? By Carey Kinsolving And Friends “Gideon used fire because the electricity ran out. God said blow the horns and crash real big, and he would give them electricity,” says Weston, 4. I’m sure Gideon and his band of 300 would be surprised to know they solved Israel’s energy crisis in the late 11th century B.C. The problem in Gideon’s day, however, was a spiritual energy crisis. God called the most unlikely man to lead a spiritual revival that began with the destruction of idols. Dustin, 4, has another version of a Gideon lesson: “I learned you don’t have to hit or fight. You just smash the jars and show the light. Then you win!” Add 300 trumpets, and you’ve got the picture. Gideon and his 32,000 men were outnumbered by more than four to one. God told Gideon he had too many soldiers in his outnumbered army. Gideon announced that all scared soldiers should go home. Twenty-two thousand soldiers hit the road. That left 10,000. God ran the numbers again. Still too many. Next came the etiquette test. If you drink like a dog, you could stay. But if you get on your knees to drink from the water, start packing. Read it for yourself in the Book of Judges, chapter seven. General Gideon now had only 300 dogfaced soldiers, or soldiers who drank like dogs. Ashley, 8, explains the way God does math: “God didn’t want Gideon to have too many people because they would all brag.” God knows that men are great posers. Often, they choose machismo rather than humility that finds its strength in God. As for bragging rights, God reduced their numbers and crafted a battle plan that would leave no doubt about the source of their victory. “You can learn from this that you can
do anything through God,” says Marshall, 11. God has a way of taking something small and doing something big. People without God have a way of taking something big and doing something small. Remember David and Goliath? It was small versus big. Don’t forget the widow’s two mites (Luke 21:1-4). Jesus said it was a small amount of money, but a big-time reward in God’s kingdom because she gave all she had. “God is going to fight the battle for Gideon’s army. I believe that God also is willing to fight my battles for me,” says Emily, 8. Today, many churches and Christians approach service to God with a public relations mentality. Everything must be huge, splashy and well-funded. Gideon didn’t graduate from West Point. The angel of the Lord found him hiding from enemy forces in a wine press threshing wheat. The poor guy was just trying to make some bread without someone stealing it. “The Lord is with you, you mighty man of valor!” said the angel of the Lord to Gideon. I fully expect the next verse to read, “You talkin’ to me?” In the ensuing dialogue, we learn that God is the angel of the Lord. And only God can cause us to be truly courageous when we’re scared out of our wits. Think about this: God specializes in overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds. Almost 2,000 years ago, all the forces of hell assembled against a man crucified between two thieves. On Sunday morning, Jesus conquered them and the greatest enemy of all: death. Memorize this truth: “The Lord is with you, you mighty man of valor!” (Judges 6:12). Ask this question: Does God want to use you to overcome something very difficult?
Considering the Cost By Dr. William Holland When browsing in a bookstore, I’m sure certain titles grab your attention and you read the back cover because you want to know more about what the book is about. The same is true for most people who research their direction before they begin traveling on a journey because they want to know more about where they are going. Well, since this is a brand new year, I want to ask some questions that are intended for us to contemplate and decide if this is a direction we dare to take. My first question is; Are we interested about drawing closer to God? It would seem reasonable to accept that individuals who are sensitive about the spiritual realm would understand that God is the meaning and purpose of life. You may have guessed what the next question is going to be; are we ready to take the step of faith toward God and commit to becoming the person we were created to be? This is the point where those in the bookstore, decide to either purchase the book or lay it down and continue seeking. Most of us humans do not like drastic change because we do not want to let go of all the things that we love, even though many of them are bad for us. However, we really cannot afford to ignore our destiny because avoiding reality is like putting a Band-Aid on a broken arm. The older we grow the more set in our ways we become and to those who live in a satisfied state of mind, it’s very difficult to surrender our will and become a brand new person. This does not mean it’s impossible for an old dog to learn new tricks, it just means that personal transformation includes a certain amount of sacrifice. It’s sobering to consider that for many individuals who dwell in denial, the cost of changing is more than they are willing to pay. We realize that it’s pleasurable to hear devotions and read books about how God wants to continue blessing us just like we are. When we hear these words, it seems to imply that we have nothing to worry about, with no further need to be shaped or molded by the Potter. Our nature loves this type of cozy message but unfortunately
it’s not true. As a minister and counselor, I often hear people say they just want to get their life together and be happy and then they will serve God, but this is putting the cart before the horse. Spiritual peace and contentment can only be found when we fall in love with God first. Others desire to be successful and respected but ignore the Lord. It seems that mankind is always looking to make some type of deal or compromising agreement with God but this is not true covenant love. We’ve heard about the overcomers in the book of Revelation, but who are they and what does this mean? Basically, I believe this is referring to those who control their flesh and resist the devil. These are the individuals who are focused on Christ and love Him with all of their mind, strength, and soul. How determined are you and I to be awakened from our slumber? The answers to these questions separate the spectators from the participators. Imagine the adventurers who boarded ships and sailed away in search for a new world. They waved goodbye while leaving those who were satisfied with mediocrity standing on the shore. When will we decide that it’s our time to come aboard His vessel of unlimited possibilities? Will we remain the same or will we seek and fulfill our spiritual destiny? Similar to making a decision to diet and exercise, our spiritual evolution has everything to do with desire. Impossible? Of course not! Difficult? Absolutely! Charles Swindoll is quoted as saying, “We all are faced with a series of great opportunities brilliantly disguised as impossible situations.” If we are not interested, we will not succeed and it’s as simple as that. Could today be the day when you ask God to begin a personal metamorphosis in your life? Salvation, deliverance, forgiveness, and perfect peace is only a prayer away. Mark Twain is quoted as saying, “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”
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Well, it’s all over between Oprah’s OWN and Pastor John Gray. According to reports, the network has decided not to renew the show for Gray a 4th season. Gray’s South Carolina based Relentless church is currently facing two separate lawsuits, including one that seeks to evict him and his congregation from facilities owned by megachurch pastors Ron and Hope Carpenter. The Greenville News, which first reported the network’s decision, reports that Holly Baird, a spokesperson for Gray and his wife, Aventer, says they were already considering other TV and film endeavors. If you’ve been following the drama surrounding Gray, you know he caught flack after he gifted his wife a Lamborghini Urus, worth upwards of $200,000 for their eighth wedding anniversary in 2018. At the time, he defended his purchase, claiming the husband-side of him purchased the extravagant gift. “First of all, it wasn’t a pastor that bought the car. It was a husband that bought the car. Get that in your spirit,” he said. “I’m a husband first. Don’t confuse what I do with who I am. What I do is I pastor God’s people. Who I am is a husband and a father. And I’ll do anything to honor them. And I won’t ask permission from anybody to do it. No man should.” In November, the Carpenters, who co-founded the Redemption World Outreach Center in Greenville, South Carolina, served Gray with a lease termination notice due to their business relationship souring. They claim he had been “shady” and “dishonest” in executing an agreement with the Carpenters following them handing over the reins of their Redemption Church to him in 2018.
Moving forward, it was just last week, according to WYFF-4, that Richard Travis Hayes, a former chief operating officer for Relentless Church, filed a lawsuit against Gray and his church for more than $75,000 in back pay. “This is a church and Travis was very thoughtful in bringing this lawsuit,” Hayes’ attorney, Paul Porter, said in a statement. “We did not want to end up in litigation in this situation. We’ll be sure to give (Relentless) a fair shake through the discovery process and we’re confident in our side but we’ll have to prove that to the court, which is what we intend to do.” But wait, there’s even more drama. Earlier this month, Pastor Gray reacted to the news that his church faces closure. In an email received by NewsOne, a representative for the church claims Relentless “have and will continue” to make payments to Redemption despite the court filing claiming otherwise. “We will address this matter through the appropriate legal channels,” the statement read in part. “We stand behind our original statement and are confident that the payment amounts required under the leases referenced in the complaint have and will continue to be paid. Our efforts at mediation and with wise counsel to present every detail absent of legal have proven fruitless on their end multiple times. It added: “To the Relentless Church family please note, we have dealt honorably and have utilized every possible measure to resolve these differences to date. We will continue to serve the Lord, reach the lost, and serve the community. This unfortunate issue will not hinder the vision, work, functionality, or heart of this church. We invite the media and the public to do their own due diligence. There will be no further comment at this time as we allow our legal team to proceed accordingly.” The original report released by Greenville News claimed Redemption filed for eviction against The Relentless Church in Greenville on Jan. 2 “over a month after Redemption terminated its lease agreement with the megachurch run by Pastor John Gray and told the church to vacate the property owned by Redemption by the end of the year.”
Kanye West Headlines at Evangelical Student Conference in The Bible Belt By Carol Kuruvilla
Kanye West has performed his music at many of America’s top venues, from Radio City Music Hall to the Coachella festival. This weekend, the rapper stepped onto a stage in Tennessee to perform for a different sort of audience – young students at an evangelical Christian Bible conference. West headlined at the Strength To Stand conference with his Sunday Service Choir, sharing his testimony of faith with about 17,000 attendees at the LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge on Sunday. “Do you know the good news? Jesus can save a wretch like me,” West told the crowd on Sunday, according to The Christian Post. The Strength To Stand conference targets students from sixth grade to college who come from various churches in the Great Smoky Mountains region. The evangelistic event is the brainchild of Scott Dawson, a Republican who ran an unsuccessful bid to become Alabama’s governor in 2018. The annual conference has been held every year since 1990, AL.com reports. Past conferences have featured prominent Christian musicians such as Lecrae and Tauren Wells. Dawson says West volunteered to headline the Strength To Stand conference in November, after Christian comedian and YouTuber John Crist was removed over a sexual harassment scandal. Conference tickets sold out quickly after the announcement, leading organizers to schedule another show on the same day that was open to the general public. West spent most of Sunday’s concert blending in with the members of the Sunday Service Choir, a gospel collective he has assembled, according to the Knoxville News Sentinel. He placed himself in the center of a circle formed by members of the choir, wearing the same gray robes as the other musicians and only occasionally stepping onto a platform that allowed him to be seen over the choir. West and the choir performed several of his own gospel tracks, including “Closed on Sunday.” The song encourages listeners to emulate the fast-food chain Chick-fil-A, which doesn’t open on Sundays, by standing firm to their own faith convictions. The choir covered traditional hymns, such as “How Great Thou Art,” as well as Coldplay’s “Fix You,” changing the lyrics to state that, “Christ is here to fix you.” Adam Tyson, pastor of a conservative Christian church in the Los Angeles area, has been touring with West and giving sermons at his Sunday Service concerts. Tyson spoke to students at the Strength To Stand conference about the parable of the prodigal son, a Bible story about how an irresponsible, wayward son was welcomed back home. The story shows that anyone can turn from “loose-living” to “the loving mercy of the father,” Tyson told the students. Sunday’s performance was West’s latest attempt to carve out a space for himself in the world of American evangelical Christianity. West has said that he received visions about starting a church near his home in California while he was hospitalized for mental health treatment in 2016. He began hosting concerts on his property last January. Since then, he’s been touring the country with the Sunday Service Choir. Some Christians have been skeptical about West’s new public persona as an evangelist – especially in light of his suggestion that slavery was a choice and his support for President Donald Trump. But many evangelical leaders Both Born Out of Necessity appear to have embraced his story. On Sunday, Dawson told AL.com that West was a For Self-Expression “cultural icon” with a strong “spirit of humility.” Asked whether he was skeptical of West’s recent spiritual transformation, Dawson drew a parallel to Bible stories And Both Black - Owned. about the apostle Paul, who, thanks to a dramatic conversion experience, went from persecuting the early Together, The Press Christian church to becoming a key Christian leader And the Pulpit himself. Can Give Us Full Citizenship “I am firmly convinced I’m speaking to a brother in Immediately Christ,” Dawson said. “It’s not up to us to judge.”
THE BLACK PRESS AND
THE BLACK CHURCH:
PRAISE & WORSHIP DIRECTORY
January 24, 2020
ALLEN CHAPEL A.M.E.
Rev. Benjamin R. Finnell
Rev. Benjamin R. Finnell, Presiding Elder and Pastor Tammi Tate, Public Relations Chairperson 2842 Monroe St. Ph: (402) 502-8003 Fx: 934-8581 Sunday School...........................9:00 a.m. Sunday Worship......................10:00 a.m. Thursday Bible Study..............8:00 p.m. via teleconference, dial-in number 563-999-2090 and access code 576989
MOUNT CALVARY COMMUNITY CHURCH
Page Five
ST. MARK BAPTIST CHURCH
“Jesus is the Light of the World” Bishop Kevin Chambers, Senior Pastor (Elect) www.m3comaha.org 5112 Ames Avenue Omaha, NE 68104 (402) 457-4216 Church Phone (402) 453-4084 Pastor’s Office
THE OMAHA STAR
Pastor Jarrod S. Parker 3616 Spaulding Street, Omaha, NE 68111 Phone: 402-451-0307 Email: smbcsecretary@ stmarkbaptist.org Bishop Kevin Chambers
Pastor Jarrod S. Parker
Sunday School – Sunday 9:00 a.m. Services: Sunday School .................................................... 9:30 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship Experience ......... 11:00 a.m. Word On Wednesday (WOW) ........................ 7:00 p.m.
Worship Service – Sunday 10:15 a.m. Children’s Church (except 2nd Sunday) Holy Communion every 1st Sunday Prayer and Bible Doctrine Study Midday - 12:00 noon; Evening – 7:00 p.m.
MT. MORIAH MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH
“Where Life is for Everyone”
Dr. Ralph B. Lassiter, Pastor 2602 N. 24th St. Off: (402) 451-8800 Fax: (402) 451-8522 mtmoriahomaha.net pastorlassiter@gmail.com
Drs. Mar n & Lynnell Williams Founders & Lead Pastors SUNDAYS Prayer 9:00 AM Worship 10:00 AM
WEDNESDAYS Prayer 6:00 PM Worship 7:00 PM
www.ambassadorswc.com 402-341-1866 5417 N 103rd St. Omaha, NE 68134
Televised Broadcast – Sundays at 6:00 p.m., KPAO Cox Channel 22 & CenturyLink Channel 89 Our Mission: “To exalt the Savior, edify saints, evangelize sinners and elevate society.”
SACRED HEART CATHOLIC CHURCH
Rev. Ralph Lassiter, Sr.
Fr. Dave Korth
Sunday School .............................................. 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship ..........................................10:45 a.m. Overcomers in Christ......................Sunday 7:00 p.m.
2207 Wirt Street Omaha, NE 68110 Phone: 402-451-5755
Wednesday Bible-Prayer Service 11:30 a.m. & 6:30 p.m Fr. Dave Korth
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.
Mass Schedule: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday - 8:00 am in Rectory (2218 Binney)
MT. NEBO MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH
Thursday - School Mass 8:10 am in Church
“The Church Where Fellowship is Real”
Saturday - 5:00 pm Sunday - 8:15 am and 10:30 am
Pastor Terry L. Arvie 5501 N. 50th Street Ph: 402-451-4245 Fx: 402-451-2130 office@mtneboomaha.org www.mtneboomaha.org 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.
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
SALEM BAPTIST CHURCH Serving God and One Another in the Spirit of Excellence Rev. Dr. Selwyn Q. Bachus Senior Pastor 3131 Lake Street Omaha, NE 68111 402-455-1000 www.salembc.org
Rev. Dr. Selwyn Q. Bachus
Rev. Kent H. Little, Lead Pastor Services on Sundays at 8:30 am & 10:50 am
PLEASANT GREEN BAPTIST CHURCH
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.
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.
“Where CHRIST is Preeminent and the Word Prevails!” Rev. Kent H. Little
Pastor Brian Page 5555 Larimore Avenue Church: 402-346-8427 www.pleasantgreenomaha.org
TABERNACLE OF FAITH CHURCH
Pastor Brian Page
Pastor Barbara Mitchell 2404 Fort Street, Omaha, NE 68111 402-455-1800 Church 402-455-3390 Fax
Wednesday: Prayer Power Hour ......................................12:00 p.m Thursday: Youth For Christ ............................................6:00 p.m Prayer & Bible Study ....................................6:30 p.m Sunday: Sunday School.................................................9:00 a.m. Morning Worship..........................................10:15 a.m. Televised Broadcast Sunday @ 10pm on KPAO Cox Communication channel 22 & Century Link channel 89
Charles Galloway - President, Rev John Deang - Pastor, Dr John Beasley - Elder
Pastor Barbara Mitchell
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
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
Rev. Vitalis Anyanike
ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CATHOLIC CHURCH
ZION BAPTIST 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
Rev. Kenneth A. Allen, Pastor
&
JOY OF LIFE MINISTRIES COGIC
HOLY NAME CATHOLIC CHURCH
Pastors Eric and Cynthia Butler
2901 Fontenelle Blvd. 68104 Ph: 402-451-6622 • Fax 402-457-6901 Mass Schedule: Mon. - Fri. 8:30 a.m., Sat. 8:30 a.m. & 5:00 p.m. Sun. 8:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m. & Noon (Spanish) Reconciliation: Sat. 4:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. or by appointment
6401 N. 56th Street Omaha, NE 68104 Ph: 402-399-9628 E-Mail: Jolpastor@aol.com Sunday School..........................9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship......................10:30 a.m. Sunday Evening Worship.......6:00 p.m. Wednesday Night ....................7:00 p.m. Bible Study and Youth Ministries
Pastor: Rev. Vitalis Anyanike
Pastor Eric Butler and Co-Pastor Cynthia Butler
2215 Grant Street Omaha, NE 68110 Ph: 402-346-1502 Fax: 402-344-2720
Pastor Kenneth A. Allen
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)
THE WORSHIP CENTER North 24th Street Church of God “Presenting the Never-Changing GOD to an ever-changing World!”
MORNING STAR BAPTIST CHURCH
“Where Christ Jesus Is the Center of Attention” Rev. Dr. Leroy E. Adams, Jr. Senior Pastor 2019 Burdette Street Omaha, NE 68110 Ph: 402-342-0018 Fx: 402-346-9300 Rev. Dr. Leroy E. Adams, Jr.
Radio Broadcast: 101.3 fm 9:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. each Sunday Worship Service .............10:00 a.m. Sunday School .................8:45 a.m. Excluding First Sunday Tuesday Evening Service.........7:00 p.m.
Dr. Stan Rone - Senior Pastor 2021 N. 24th Street • Omaha, NE 68110 (402) 341-4297 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
LOCAL NEWS
Page Six THE OMAHA STAR
January 24, 2020
Why North Omahans Should Care About the 2020 Census By Lynn Sanchez From sea to shining sea, U.S. communities are gearing up for April 1, or “National Census Day.â€? That is the day a count of every person in the country will commence, the 24th in our history. This will be the first census to take advantage of modern technology, collecting responses online or by phone in addition to the familiar paper forms. All persons living in the United States are legally required to complete it, but not everyone does. In October 2019, local sports legend and business person Johnny Rodgers was one of the partnership specialists at UNO’s Barbara Weitz Center for Community Engagement, sharing information about the upcoming census with local media and community leaders. The message was clear: an accurate census count is crucial, particularly in minority communities. The UNO Center for Public Affairs Research listed historically hard-to-count populations: • People of color. • Low-income or no-income households. • Children under 5 years of age. • Rural residents. • Linguistically isolated households. • Frequent movers. • Large households. • Single-parent households. • Foreign-born residents. • Low educational attainment households. • People who distrust government authorities or could be targets of law enforcement.
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The 2020 Census contains questions about individuals’ names, housing arrangements, sex, age, race, ethnicity, and relationship to the householder. But it began making headlines months ago, when the current administration attempted to add a citizenship question. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled it could not be included, but census officials continue to battle an underlying mistrust among many immigrant communities, especially among the undocumented. The American Immigration Council reports that about 7 percent of Nebraska’s population was foreignborn, and nearly 6 percent are native-born U.S. citizens with at least one immigrant parent. The council also estimates about 45,000 undocumented immigrants were living in the state as of 2014. Rodgers said he got Rodgers involved because he sees so much at stake for the community. “I would like them to know how important they are. They deserve to be counted,� he said. “We’re tied to so many nonprofits, and those organizations won’t have the money to fund their projects if they can’t demonstrate there are people they are serving. It’s almost a duty to yourself and to your community to be counted.� The Census establishes Nebraska’s proportion of all federal funding until 2030. In 2016, that was $3.995 billion based upon resident counts from the 2010 Census, or $2,096 in federal funds annually for each Nebraska resident. When people go uncounted, the state loses its chance at federal dollars for grants and infrastructure projects, resulting in underfunding of many services. According to David Drozd, research coordinator at UNO, missing just 0.1 percent of Nebraskans would translate into a loss of $40 million in federal funds until the next census. Governor Pete Ricketts emphasized that the census also determines the number of congressional seats for each state. “The census impacts so much of what we do,� he said. “It makes sure we get legislative seats correct, Title 1 (financial assistance to local schools), disaster dollars, Medicaid dollars, business investing, SNAP benefits, heat and health benefits.� This, he said, is why trusted community members must get involved. Dennis Johnson, deputy director for the Census’ Denver region, told the crowd, “The 2020 census is a big deal. It shapes our future for the next ten years. The census numbers have a huge influence on political representation because they will be used to redistrict congressional and state legislative seats. Of the people, for the people, by the people. The census is taken by you,� he said Urban League President and CEO Thomas Warren said, “Your personal information is protected and cannot be used against you by law enforcement.� All census responses are completely confidential, he said. Data will not determine eligibility for benefits or identify private individuals. Department of
Tic ket s
Now !
Commerce staff are legally prohibited from disclosing any information that could identify you or your household. Breaches of census information are punishable by jail time. Dr. Jeffrey Gold, chancellor of UNO and UMNC, named older African Americans as some of the most important respondents, because their data helps show whether resources are being distributed correctly. Rodgers said that this population “may or may not have ever participated in the census. We don’t even have our older populations participating in the voting process. We need to participate in both. This is really going to affect our community,� he said, particularly the children and grandchildren of these residents. Rodgers recommended that those without computer access or skills seek assistance from younger relatives. “I’ll be helping my mother fill out her information,� Rodgers said. Yes, Rodgers says, when it comes to breaches in census data, “There is a chance there could be a problem. But there’s also a chance that if you don’t do it there could be a problem. It’s just a matter of which problem do you want to have? Life is about risk and taking chances and just doing the best you can for you and your community. Filling out the census is a privilege and it’s a right.� The Nebraska Area Census office in Lincoln is now hiring thousands of temporary census takers or “enumerators.� They visit the homes of individuals who do not return their census questionnaire. They will make at least six attempts to visit the home, contact a resident, and complete the questionnaire. Among other local speakers at the event were Anne Branigan, Senior Vice President of the Greater Omaha Chamber, Linda Lin Steele, President of the Nebraska Chinese Association and Lazaro Arturo Spindola, M.D., Executive Director of the Nebraska Latino American Commission. Extensive information about the 2020 Census is available at www.unomaha.edu/college-of-public-affairs-andcommunity-service/center-for-public-affairs-research/ programs/2020census.php and www.census.gov.
Census Notification Schedule Responses to the 2020 Census can be taken by mail, by phone, or on line. Omaha will have numerous sites around the city where people can receive help filling out the census. Wherever you physically sleep on the night of April 1 (college dorm, homeless shelter, hospital) is the place where you should send it from. The schedule for the census is as follows: • March 12-20 – 95 percent of U.S. households will get a 2020 Census invitation in the mail. The remaining 5 percent may have the invitation dropped off (such as in the case of natural disaster, or PO Box addresses) • March 16-24 – A reminder letter will be sent. If you do not respond to the first two letters: • March 26 - April 3 – A reminder postcard. • April 8-16 – A reminder letter and paper questionnaire. • April 20-27 – A final reminder postcard before a live census taker follows up.
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January 24, 2020
STAR SPECIAL COVERAGE
THE OMAHA STAR
Page Seven
Down for the Cause Not Down for the Count Development & Gentrification in North Omaha
Village Redevelopment Plans for Next Generation By Lynn Sanchez
In 2006, the 60-block area near historic Prospect Hill cemetery was one of the deadliest locations in Omaha. Residents lived in fear of being shot. Many would not allow their children to play outdoors. North Omaha community leaders from the Empowerment Network, Omaha Economic Development Corporation (OEDC) and others were concerned and decided to tackle the issue head-on. Their first act: Listening to the residents. Long-time neighborhood leader Caletta Hodges told them, “It’s great that you want to do some new plans, but what we really need is help with neighborhood cleanups.” So, a cleanup was organized. Then block parties. A summer job program for youth followed. These simple things began to create real change in the neighborhood. Empowerment Network Director of Operations Vicki Quaites-Ferris recalled the day all those years ago when leaders of the various organizations and residents took a bus tour through the neighborhood. The source of the problems plaguing the neighborhood quickly became apparent. “(Resident) Ruthie Harper was able to point out those houses that were homes and those that had individuals that were causing a lot of ruckus,” Ferris said. From day one, the residents were part of the solution. Thirteen years later, Prospect Hill Neighborhood Association President Rondae Hill told the crowd about the transformation she has witnessed. “I was born and raised in that neighborhood, and it’s been reborn,” she said. “It’s a whole new community. In our neighborhood, we actually have kids in the street again, riding their
bikes! We have a little grocery store now and people are waving to each other going into the grocery store. We still have some problem areas that we are working on, but it has come so far.” A progress report and future outlook for the Village Redevelopment Plan, which includes Prospect Hill neighborhood, was presented at a community meeting on January 11, at North High School’s Viking Center. The presentation was hosted by The Empowerment Network and 16 other local organizations. According to meeting handouts, the plan is based on input from over 8,000 North Omaha residents, neighborhood associations, faith leaders, nonprofit organizations, local businesses, schools and the City. The Village Redevelopment Plan of 2020 is a sweeping, multidimensional, inclusive strategy encompassing gainful employment, education, cultural preservation, transportation, safety, health and stability. The plan targets its resources first in areas they refer to as “nodes of opportunity,” where “icons” of the cultural, business and community already exist. Some examples include Love’s Jazz and Arts Center, Salem Baptist Church and The Omaha Star Newspaper. This announcement has been a long time coming. The City Council originally approved the zone-based development plan for inclusion in the City’s Master Plan in 2011. A crowd of several hundred stakeholders, STEP UP interns and community members listened intently to speakers invited by Willie Barney of the Empowerment Network. Barney gave a detailed PowerPoint recapping the project’s history and continued evolution, and crediting the involvement of
its many partners. Throughout the meeting, attendees were also invited to leave written feedback and suggestions. Tim Kenny from Nebraska Investment Financial Authority (NIFA) told the crowd when he first came to North Omaha, he immediately recognized the potential. “These ingredients are all here; all the opportunity, all the talent, all the population energy, all the resources are here in order to achieve great things,” he told the crowd. But he also knew it would take time, which could feel frustrating. He emphasized that every plan has multiple steps. “(NIFA) said let’s put your plan on the table and move forward into the next generation and the next decade and recognize the potential that exists here that’s all around us.” District 2 City Councilman Ben Gray told the crowd that earlier studies such as the Chamber of Commerce’s 2007 North Omaha Development Plan provided the foundation for the Village Redevelopment. Before 75 North or the Highlander project existed, he said, large community meetings were being held to gather input about how to develop various “zones” or areas of North Omaha around existing community icons. The Prospect Hill wish-list included mixed income neighborhoods, affordable housing options, new recreational facilities, businesses and stores. Thomas Warren, former Police Chief and former board chair of 75 North, explained that Hilltop and Pleasant View public housing was demolished by OHA and then nothing happened for about 10 years. Warren credited Willie Barney with suggesting Atlanta’s “Purpose Built Communities” to
Who Are the People in Your Neighborhood Association? By Lynn Sanchez From Aksarben Heights to Woodlyn Park, most Omaha neighborhoods have a grassroots group of volunteers working with one purpose: to watch out for their neighborhood. Year by year, block by block, they improve, advocate, maintain, protect and connect. “Without neighborhoods, we don’t have a community,” says Precious McKesson, president of North Omaha Neighborhood Alliance (NONA) board. “They’re important because they are what keeps going. People leave their neighborhoods to go to their job, then they come home to their communities. So neighborhoods play a very, very big role in everyday life that goes into everyday policymaking from the state level to the city level.” Rondae Hill has been president of the Prospect Hill Neighborhood Association for five years. (The neighborhood is also sometimes referred to as “Prospect Village.”) “Number one, I think it’s important to know your neighbors,” she says. “If you know your neighbors, everybody has eyes out on the neighborhood.” The problems they need to tackle are easy to spot. “The same thing will come up over and over again. For us, it’s a lot of dumping. People dump in the abandoned lots. The spring cleanups that Keep Omaha Beautiful does help a lot. Another problem is the potholes, oh my goodness. But you will find out what is important when multiple people come together and they all address the same thing.” She recalls an incident several years ago when the city wanted to remove a school crosswalk light in Dundee. “Because they had a strong neighborhood association, they spoke up and they saved the light,” she says. “If you have an active neighborhood association, you have a voice if something like that pops up in your neighborhood. Without an active neighborhood association, you don’t have a voice.” There’s not a lot of glory in Neighborhood Association work. They don’t get paid. They spend lots of time posting to Facebook or the Nextdoor app (a private social network for neighbors.) They may endure long, tedious city meetings for a chance to speak on behalf of their neighbors. They deal with problems other neighbors cause. They may knock on your door to ask how you are doing. They organize the events that others are too busy working to help with. They get the word out about what’s going on. All these things contribute to keeping the neighborhood safer, cleaner and more peaceful. Association leaders must get creative to entice neighbors to get involved. Hill said that her group slowed down over the past few years but she wants to try creating a newsletter in 2020. “I want to keep having meetings, because I think it’s important to sit down and talk to your neighbors, see what their issues are – is your trash getting picked up on time? Do you have weeds next door? What are your issues? But my ultimate dream is to try to get to the point of doing quarterly newsletters. Because I still think there are a lot of older people that don’t have
technology and we’re not reaching them unless there is something showing up at their door.” In addition to her position with NONA, McKesson is on the One Omaha Advisory Committee. One Omaha works with neighborhood associations all over the city by offering community leader trainings, helping them access funding resources and assisting with engagement and outreach. “We’re always trying to come up with good ideas to engage the neighborhood,” she says. “For instance, Forever North had a block party, so we did a survey asking people, ‘What do you want? What do you want to see in your neighborhood? What would bring you out?’ And by doing that, they all came together and had a big family fun day. We had a great turnout. It always comes back to canvassing, knocking on the doors and asking them what do they need? We noticed that it worked. It’s very hard, because people work different schedules. You’ve got to be able to connect, to let them know there’s something in it for their family. We’ve got to make it fun. By getting them in with the kids, it gets them in the door so we can have a conversation.” When potentially dangerous problems arise in a neighborhood, there is help from the city. A “Good Neighborhood” ordinance was adopted several years ago by the city to help address public nuisance issues. “The Good Neighbor Ordinance was created through neighborhood associations,” says McKesson. “NONA had a stake in it, but neighborhood associations came together and (asked) – how do we continue to hold our neighbors accountable? If they’re having loud parties and that kind of thing, how do we do that? Neighborhoods came together and created the Good Neighbor Ordinance with Councilman Gray, and it’s been used.” For example, she says, the Miller Park/Minne Lusa Neighborhood Association had concerns about an incident at a local gas station. Neighborhood association leaders met with McKesson, Councilman Gray and another staff member and expressed their frustration. After the meeting, Gray told the business owners that if they did not take care of the problem, their occupancy license would be revoked. “So they got their act together,” McKesson says. “We have not had another meeting since then and it’s been almost two years ago.” Hill encouraged those who are thinking about starting a group to reach out to One Omaha. “If (One Omaha) had been available when I was first starting, I would have had someone I could have contacted and say how do I do this? They are a huge asset for all of the neighborhood associations. If you have a question, you call them and they are willing to bend over backwards to help you figure it out. When you’re starting something from the ground up, it’s difficult. It can be tedious but it’s so well worth it because if something does happen in your neighborhood, then you have voices to speak.”
fill the void. That organization had successfully turned around Atlanta’s East Lake neighborhood from a high-crime area to a thriving community with affordable and market rate housing and a strong emphasis on education, which meshed well with Prospect Hill’s vision. Breaking ground in 2015, Highlander today offers 300 housing units, divided into thirds between market rate, affordable and mixed income and several new children’s programs. “This was probably the most significant investment in North Omaha in my lifetime,” said Warren. “We’re talking $90 million of capital investment.” Warren told the high school students in attendance, “We want North Omaha to be an attractive area for our next generation of young professionals, of leaders, entrepreneurs, of CEOs. This investment is really about you.” The development will soon include senior housing, now under construction at 30th and Parker. The $25 million HUD Choice Neighborhoods grant won by 75 North in 2019 will provide seed money for redeveloping Spencer Homes, Warren said. “Spencer will be excavated. There will be a number of focus groups or charettes, where we will solicit input from the residents.” Collaborations with Howard Kennedy School have included an extended school day and year, and strategies to improve academic outcomes that have already improved test scores, Warren said. Holy Name Housing CEO Mike Gawley brought the crowd up to date on housing in the area of the Malcolm X/Adams Park area. “We got about 25 done, we have 22 more homes under contract that
we have plans to build,” including seven townhomes, Gawley said, adding, “We recognize there’s a need for other types of housing (in the area).” Along with its first construction of row houses, Holy Name hopes to address the so called “missing middle” by building multiunit housing types compatible in scale with detached single-family homes that help meet the growing demand for walkable urban living. “We need more dense housing to get back into North Omaha.” Teresa Coleman Hunter, Executive Director of Family Housing Advisory Service recalled walking to Lothrop school as a child, watching houses on her route deteriorate year by year. They were eventually demolished, leaving empty lots. Returning to her neighborhood as an adult, she was thrilled to see new houses going up in these lots. “And guess who it was?” she asked. “Holy Name Housing!” Now that she is on the “other side of the fence,” Hunter does everything in her power to help people find ways to afford good, stable housing. “We help people who are having problems staying in their homes. We are trying to make sure everybody graduates from high school.... So if there are families with school age children, we can help if you need help with rent and utility assistance.” She also encouraged all those attending to take advantage of her organization’s free financial education services. The Empowerment Network hosts a monthly community meeting on the 2nd Saturday of every month at the Viking Center, Omaha North High School, 4410 N. 36th St.
Boring Public Meetings: Why You Should Pay Attention By Lynn Sanchez “Nothing is more wonderful than the art of being free, but nothing is harder to learn how to use than freedom.” – Alexis de Tocqueville NEWS FLASH: Local government meetings are as dull as dry toast. But if you want to be “in the room where it happens” sometimes a meeting is that place. So you must develop a tolerance for bureaucracy and fluorescent lighting. And in Omaha, government meetings aren’t terribly user-friendly, either. Most public meetings of the various elected boards are scheduled during the work week, inconvenient if not impossible for most working folks to attend. So is it worthwhile for private citizens to keep tabs on what’s happening at the City Council? Maybe. There are a lot of meetings happening on any given day, and only so much time and energy to attend them. Just to name a few public meetings: • OPD’s Precinct Advisory Councils • Omaha City Council • The Omaha Planning Board • The Omaha Municipal Land Bank • Cable Television Access Corporation (CTAC) • Board of County Commissioners Luis Jimenez of North Omaha Information Supports Everyone (NOISE) is a big believer in citizens keeping an eye on their government. Meetings, he says, are “the point of access to services that need to happen. You want government to work for you.” But newcomers to the city meeting scene are usually in for a bit of a learning curve. For example, which meeting should I go to? It’s not always obvious. “Two departments that are critical to people’s needs are the Planning Department and Public Works,” says Jimenez. “So (citizens) have a need, they go try to find out who’s going to listen to them. But they have to understand where the resolution lies. Is it with the Planning Department? If you’re talking about redevelopment, that’s the neighborhood coming together, right? So then you deal with the Planning Department. Are your streets dilapidated? Well, the neighborhood understands that but coming together isn’t going to resolve that because that’s Public Works.” Dawaune Hayes, Jimenez’s colleague at NOISE, explains that it takes some experience to see how each department functions. “Public works is the one that executes the end product, the street or the landscaping or how lighting is set up. Planning is the one that writes the codes and the policies and all those things, and Public Works implements those. So what ends up happening is when people just perceive “THE CITY,” and don’t
understand how it communicates and doesn’t communicate with itself, that makes it really challenging to get things addressed.” Further, Hayes says, it all works cyclically. Planning makes decisions. City Council votes on those decisions. Public Works implements those decisions. Citizens who are out of the loop hear about the decisions on the news when they are fait accompli. “The community is seeing the tail end and engaging with the end product,” says Hayes. Jimenez says Neighborhood Associations should realize that the City gives away thousands of grant dollars for projects every year. “Neighborhood people must, they’re required to know what’s going on with the meetings. It’s essential for neighborhood people to come to these meetings, to understand first and foremost where the money is going and how their needs can be met.” As veterans of hundreds of hours of public meetings, Jimenez and Hayes have a few tips: 1. Find the meeting agenda online and print it out so you know what will be discussed. It also serves as a place to take notes. Or bring a notebook. Agendas are available on the City Council’s web page, citycouncil.cityofomaha.org. Pro tip: “The biggest improvement is that they put everything that’s going to be considered the next time at the end of the agenda,” says Jimenez. 2. Get a hard copy of the Daily Record. The Omaha Daily Record is usually available at all the public libraries. If you’re hardcore, you can subscribe for $110 a year. 3. Get on the agenda, plan what you want to say, and say it in under 10. Even though meetings are “public,” the public isn’t always allowed to speak. The City Council’s Rules of Order say “A person shall not be allowed to address the Council during meetings unless those interested in the proposition are invited to speak or unless said person has caused the subject matter to be placed on the Agenda by the City Clerk with the approval of a majority vote of the City Council.” “The agendas are extensive so you can’t just show up and think you’re going to be talking, because they’ll remove you. But when it comes to your neighborhood, if you can stay on point, if your discussion is on-topic they’ll let you speak,” says Jimenez. 4. Sign up for meeting email alerts or view online videos on the city’s website. 5. Follow NOISE or your local neighborhood association on social media. Why reinvent the wheel? NOISE often live-streams meetings as they happen, and reports on many community meetings on their website noiseomaha. com.
COMMENTARY January 24, 2020 Report: Community Based Clueless Joe titled “Academic Ignorance and Black By Oscar H. Blayton Initiative on Prison Reform Intelligence,” linguist William Labov
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By Preston Love Jr. An attempt to keep the community fully informed, and engaged, on a very important issue, as it relates to North Omaha: prison reform. Any discussion of Prison Reform and all its pieces begets the need to discuss the corollary issue of Criminal Justice Reform. May I take a moment to simply say that Criminal Justice Reform has so many facets. For example, needless police arrests and interaction with the community resulting in jail, temporary holding, the building of unnecessary criminal files and records, beginning early with our youth. There is even a dotted line to the school system where bad behavior could very well end up with one of our kids having a criminal record or experience. Most recently in Nebraska LB147, the children restraint legislation had the potential of just that. Let us dig deeper; so now onto the courts and unnecessary, unwarranted convictions and sentencing. The prisons and jails creating environments that induce stress and violence for the people incarcerated and the staff. Furthermore, we are then faced with another whole systematic challenge in the parole methodology and the systematic approach to preparing incarcerated people for a successful life after prison or contributing to a high number of recidivism. These factors need review and comprehensive change for a better system. This report, however, is focused on some of the moving parts of the prison and parole systems, not the entire Criminal Justice System. On Jan. 7, Jasmine Harris, MPH, CHES, Director of Public Policy and Advocacy at RISE, and Black Votes Matter Intern Jessa Royer, who is a recent UNO graduate and upcoming law student, and I met with Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts, his chief of staff and Scott Frakes, Director of Nebraska Corrections. The objective was simply to create a channel of communication that may lead to improvements in the prison system. That includes the many people in the community who are affected, like friends and relatives of those actually incarcerated by the system. I initiated this meeting because of the increased dialogue that I am receiving from families, friends and prison reform advocates, regarding the stress, violence, and lockdowns in Nebraska prisons. For the record, these problems are mostly created by overcrowding and under staffing at the majority of the facilities. In spite of our political differences and ideology, we had a very fruitful and open discussion. In my opinion, we opened
the door for continued communication and established several processes to improve two-way dialogue directed toward improvement. Meeting outcomes include: • A meeting with community members and stakeholders, coordinated by Jasmine Harris and RISE, was held Jan. 22 to discuss the decision-making processes of parole hearings and technical violations. This meeting was held to prepare recommendations and discussion points for a subsequent meeting with Frakes and Rosalyn Cotton, Chair of the Parole Board. Secondly, John Albin, Director of the Department of Labor, Tony Goins, Director of Economic Development, and other members of the state department will be invited to listen to recommendations and concerns of local community members in order to reform our criminal justice system, and better serve the needs of community members. This too will be coordinated by Jasmine Harris. • Scott Frakes has agreed to come to Omaha to talk about the Department of Corrections’ strategic plan for our prison population over the next 4 years. He will also listen to recommendations from the community on how to combat recidivism in Nebraska. I will coordinate that meeting which is scheduled for January 31, at a specially called Hungry Club hosted by Black Men United, at the new Big Mama’s Kitchen & Catering, 2112 N. 30th St. Additionally, both Frakes and Rosalyn Cotton will be guests at the March 14 community meeting hosted by the Empowerment Network. • There was agreement that public information on the Department of Corrections website should be reviewed to maximize our common goal of reforming and informing the community about our prison system. That will include a review and update of corrections statistics and website information. Jessa Royer has begun this process with Director Frakes. Research and updates are scheduled to be published Feb. 1. • We would hope to replicate these prison system processes that we are initiating with Health and Human Services as well. In summary, using an old wives tale to make a point: “How do you eat an elephant?” The answer is, one bite at a time. The elephant in the room, is the Criminal Justice System. It is our hope that this initiative represents one bite in the total overall system. We urge our community, families and activists to join in and savor this delicious bite. Lastly, and maybe most importantly, Governor Ricketts and Scott Frakes have agreed to provide ongoing communication.
Mentoring Matters Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentoring Benefits By Debra L. Shaw For more than 50 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands has operated under the belief that inherent in every child is the ability to succeed and thrive in life. As a donor and volunteer supported organization, Big Brothers Big Sisters makes meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and children (“Littles”), ages 7 through 18, throughout the Omaha/Council Bluffs metro area. They develop positive friendships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people. Their vision is that all youth achieve their full potential. This broad and lofty statement reflects their belief that Big Brothers Big Sisters has the potential to influence systemic change in our community for the benefit of all children. Their mission is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. The agency believes that “children facing adversity” is a more hopeful term for the youth served by Big Brothers Big Sisters than the term “children at risk.” This terminology expresses their firm conviction that all children have the potential to succeed despite adversity. Confident in this potential and the value of professionally supported mentoring relationships, the program targets children who face the challenges associated with living in poverty, single parent households and out of home care, as well as those who have had contact with the juvenile justice system or who have a parent incarcerated. The Big
program offers accountability because they partner with parents/guardians, volunteers and others in the community for each child in the program. To achieve this accountability, the Big program offers the following expectations for their Littles: higher aspirations, greater confidence and better relationships, avoidance of risky behaviors and educational success. In order for the program to succeed, the agency must strive to - serve increasing numbers of youth while continuing to improve effectiveness and diversity; collaborate with other community organizations that provide complementary service; increase utilization of innovative technology; assure organizational financial and resource sustainability. https://www. bbbsomaha.org/ Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands is thankful for the local merchants who generously support the Bigs and Littles matched in the program. Some of the merchants are Aksarben Cinema, Amazing Pizza Machine, Bounce U, Dave and Buster’s, and the Durham Museum to name a few. The merchants offer special discounts when volunteers show their Big tag. Visit https://www.bbbsomaha.org/partners/ to discover the list of additional merchants who partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters. Volunteers are expected to meet at least two times a month for at least four hours a month; commit to at least 12 months; must be a high school graduate or have a GED; must be at least 19 years of age; must have a valid driver’s license and car insurance and complete a background and reference check. To become a Big, visit this link https://www.bbbsomaha.org/volunteer/. Mentoring Matters!
Black folk have a real dilemma building up over the 2020 elections like thunderclouds over the Midwestern plains. There is no question that we need to resist the re-election of Donald Trump with every fiber of our beings. Allowing this most horrible of humans another four years to try to destroy every hard-fought gain won over the past 70 years will pose an extremely dangerous threat to lives and our liberty. Without question, Trump most go. The question then becomes, “After Trump, then what?” Some people suggest that we replace Trump with Joe Biden. After all, they argue, he was Obama’s vice president. But the problem with that reasoning is that Joe Biden is Joe Biden, not Barack Obama. Biden created so many problems for the African American community during his political career that should disqualify him from serious consideration by Black voters. During the 1970s, Biden was chums with segregationists, opposed busing to integrate schools and voted to bar the use of federal funding for abortions. In the 1990s, his treatment of Anita Hill during the Clarence Thomas hearings was abhorrent, and he drafted the 1994 crime bill that has resulted in the United States having the highest incarceration rate in the world. Biden wants us to believe that his days of racially toxic behavior are behind him, but the words that come out of his mouth are evidence that he is still a danger to African Americans. During one of the presidential debates in September, Biden claimed one reason for the achievement gap between white and Black students is the so called “word gap” between them. This notion of a word gap is a discredited theory based on a flawed 1995 study claiming that poor children hear 30 million fewer words than their middleclass counterparts during the early years of life. He suggested that the achievement gap can be fixed if Black parents “make sure the record player is on at night” so their “kids hear words.” The 30-million-word gap theory rose to prominence during the 1980s due to inappropriate testing and research. It also appears that research was underpinned with implicit racism. This theory was clearly debunked by 2018 using more efficient testing and research and a contextual approach to the issue. As early as 1972, experts were exposing flaws in the word gap theory. In a June 1972 Atlantic article
wrote: “Our work in the speech community makes it painfully obvious that in many ways working-class speakers are more effective narrators, reasoners, and debaters than many middle-class speakers…” Labov went on to say about the word gap: “Unfortunately, these notions are based upon the work of educational psychologists who know very little about language and even less about black children. The concept of verbal deprivation has no basis in social reality; in fact, black children in the urban ghettos receive a great deal of verbal stimulation, hear more well-formed sentences than middle-class children, and participate fully in a highly verbal culture; they have the same basic vocabulary, possess the same capacity for conceptual learning, and use the same logic as anyone else who learns to speak and understand English.” Forty-seven years after Labov’s Atlantic article, Biden still does not have a clue. When questioned about these outdated beliefs during a New York Times editorial board interview in December, Biden attempted to support his position by claiming that Black parents are reluctant to participate in the education of their children because of their embarrassment over the lack of their own education and their inability to speak well. Think about this craziness when you consider placing Joe Biden in the White House. In 2012, the Survey Research Institute at the University of Houston conducted interviews of 1,200 individuals and concluded that African Americans are the most likely demographic to value postsecondary education. Apparently, it did not occur to Biden that racism and disparities in resources have a hand in the achievement gap. But he wants a job where he will decide how the nation’s resources will be used to overcome the effects of racism. Would there be a danger if our tax dollars would be spent to distribute voice recordings because of a debunked and racist theory? We need a president who has a better understanding, not only of the causes of racially motivated educational disparities, but all the disparities in this country caused by bigotry and ignorance. The problem we as Black folk are facing with the 2020 election is to figure out who we want to replace Donald Trump. Trump is a cancer on democracy. But can’t we do better than Joe Biden? (Oscar H. Blayton is a former Marine Corps combat pilot and human rights activist who practices law in Virginia.)
How Judges Can Lead Juvenile Justice Reform By Honorable John Sumner Our society finds itself asking why do we sentence, probate and incarcerate so many young people while forgetting the frailties of adolescents. Juvenile justice reform is occurring in many states. Often judges are the leaders or at the center of these efforts. Why are judges taking on this new role, and why are communities looking to them for leadership? It is always helpful to look back to see how we got here. We can then better answer those questions. As a young trial lawyer in the trenches of courtrooms during the ’80s, I joined many others voicing concerns on the dangers of the move toward mandatory sentencing and other draconian laws in the adult system. Also troublesome was increasingly treating young offenders as little adult criminals. We saw a system transform over time from understanding youth who needed help to viewing them as future criminals. They were charged as adults, exposed to the court system and detained for doubtful reasons. In all fairness, the prevailing thought was we needed to find the future predators (a theory that has now been repudiated by its author) and protect society. Of course, many system changes at that time were helpful as some young offenders were dangerous and needed stricter responses. No one intended harm to children, but the laws and system lost its way and went too far. We have seen the negative impacts from unnecessary detainment and seeking to punish rather than rehabilitate those we can. The reform effort is also embracing the need to involve community in these efforts. The reforms have been to return more children to the juvenile system rather than treating them as adults; restrict or eliminate detention; apply standardized, research-based detention and sentencing instruments; provide treatment services that are supported by data (evidence-based programming); establish accountability courts and many other reforms.
Judges’ role in reform Again, why have judges moved into this reform leadership role, and what role can they play? Judges, by the nature of their profession, bring two important aspects to reform work: authenticity and authority. Authenticity: Judges are well respected as fair, impartial, intelligent and trustworthy. When a judge makes the time investment into any effort, it is natural to assume the work is important. “If the judge finds this important, then I need to pay close attention.” It is assumed that a judge will not invest his or her time in an effort that would not benefit the judicial system. It becomes easy then for everyone to accept the legitimacy of the work. Authority: A judge’s authority is accepted without question. He or she is the face of the judicial branch of government and is respected as such. Although the reform work is often outside the courtroom and technically beyond the judge’s legal control, a judge is still seen as an authority figure. Judges can use the authenticity and authority to exert powerful leadership. When he or she convenes a meeting, generally people will attend and be open to discussions about the work. Judges are trusted to have the knowledge and insight on problems seen in court and potential solutions. The leadership of the bench should not be confused with the responsibility of reform work. A judge can serve as a convener with trusted insight and guidance, but the work has to be a joint effort. Rewriting the code My state of Georgia underwent an extensive juvenile code rewrite in 2014 that brought many, far-reaching changes to the juvenile justice system. Those changes included new court duties and obligations. Our local community planned for the changes six months before the effective date of the reform code. We have two juvenile court judges in our jurisdiction, and we led numerous meetings with various stakeholders in the specific areas affected by the revision, including mental health, child welfare, probation, service Judges continued on page 9
January 24, 2020
COMMENTARY/YOUTH/NATIONAL
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Judges continued from page 8
Stronger, Smarter, Bolder: Girls Take the Lead New York, NY – Girls Inc., the leading nonprofit that inspires all girls to be strong, smart, and bold, recently released “Stronger, Smarter, Bolder: Girls Take the Lead,” a report of studied insights into what is needed to ensure girls are prepared to succeed in leadership roles in business, politics, and their communities. The report presents both a wide-ranging analysis of the latest research on the primary factors shaping girls’ lives today, and recommendations for the most crucial supports communities should focus on for girls. These supports, when delivered and fostered in tandem, provide lifechanging experiences. In a new study by the American Institutes for Research (AIR), girls who receive the supports offered by Girls Inc. have a significant advantage over their peers who do not. While there are more women today in key leadership positions than ever before, there still exists a pervasive gender gap in top leadership. The report outlines four fundamental supports that Girls Inc. has determined are universally beneficial to girls and create the conditions for girls to overcome systemic societal challenges and become strong leaders: providing mentoring relationships, encouraging girls to develop and use their voices, promoting positive self-image, and fostering intellectual confidence. These supports help girls navigate and overcome the multifaceted, interconnected, and persistent barriers they face. The report highlights some of the most recent and significant research on girls, pointing to trends in eleven key factors that shape their lives. The report presents a comprehensive, holistic view of the landscape in which girls in both
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the U.S. and Canada are growing up. The following factors are examined: physical activity, mental health, substance use, teen pregnancy, educational achievement, STEM experiences, graduation rates, juvenile justice, healthy relationships – encompassing harassment, sexual abuse, and leadership opportunities. “The research shows us that Girls Inc. is making progress on some of the toughest issues girls face – but we, and all of us working in this field, still have a ways to go, especially for girls of color, LBGTQ+ girls, and low-income girls. They need equity of access to wellbeing and opportunity, and we have to see the whole girl, in her context and community. That’s what Girls Inc. has always done. We think that’s a key to the success we’ve achieved,” said Stephanie J. Hull, Ph.D., President & CEO of Girls Inc. Recently, the American Institutes for Research completed a rigorous comparison study designed to isolate and identify the impact of the Girls Inc. on girls’ lives. The evaluation was a twoyear, quasi-experimental research study that compared girls in Girls Inc. with a similar group of non-participating girls on subjective self-report measures from girls on their experiences, skills, and attitudes, and objective measures from schools on academic and school-based performance. Researchers determined with confidence that regardless of demographic, academic, and social characteristics, girls who participated in Girls Inc. were outpacing their peers in multiple areas of success and were more likely to: • See themselves as leaders, with the Girls Inc. continued on page 12
providers, schools, the district attorney, nonprofits and state government. We then had interagency meetings that cumulated with a countywide training for our entire local system of care the month before the reform code went into effect. Bringing in MST The judges ensured that the various working groups gave an equal voice to all participants, and wove their opinions and advice into better court protocols. The system of care work led to an inventory and restructuring of our local mental health services for families and children. Our court applied for the evidence-based program Multisystemic Therapy (MST) and received a substantial grant to implement it. Prior to MST, our juvenile court lacked effective treatment for high and midlevel at-risk youth. Our only option was probation and inadequate programs. Not surprisingly, youth would continue their disruptive behavior. The only option was varying levels of incarceration. After we were able to employ evidence-based programs for them, our incarceration rates dropped dramatically. In one year, we saw the second highest decrease in incarceration for the entire state of Georgia. We have seen delinquency rates drop, successful completion of probation and families smiling in courts. I have seen parents who were beyond stressed with a troubled child come to our court and thank us for the services and the help for the family. Judges much prefer to see parents smiling and children doing well rather than the frustrations and disappointment with a system that can only offer incarceration. That is direct community impact. It all began with the judges exerting the leadership to call a meeting, share their knowledge and insights, guide the process, empower the members of the various agencies and community, and jointly oversee a system of care. We make it
clear that everyone has a voice. We will not always agree. We will always respect each other’s opinion. The goal is to work as a system of care for the community as a whole. From parole officer to judge Before attending law school, I was a parole officer. Since then, I have served in many capacities ranging from public defender to juvenile court judge and president of the Georgia Council of Juvenile Court Judges. It is safe to say that I have seen all sides of the justice system. Judges have, by default, become the leaders of reform. The delivery of social services should not ebb and flow with the inevitable changes in the governor’s office. Georgia’s current governor, Nathan Deal, oversaw the much needed reform and great improvements in our juvenile justice system. The reform in Georgia has been a model of a system of care that is based on datadriven decision-making. I would hope that Georgia continues this work and other states will look to the work here: evidence-based programs with verifiable results, detentionassessment tools, pre-dispositional risk assessment, Juvenile Detention Alternative Initiative, Blueprint for Change, attorneys for children and increased mandatory judicial review of children in foster care. Whatever changes occur in the future, our local system of care will continue. I would encourage judges to take on the leadership role in their communities. Serve as a convener, leader and collaboration builder. A strong system of care, no matter the current state of politics, will sustain and serve the goal of any community to help its families and children. Judges can be the catalyst for reform. (Honorable John Sumner is the presiding judge of the Cherokee County Juvenile Court in Georgia.)
Proposed Changes to Community Reinvestment Act
By Christopher G. Cox Publisher and Managing Editor www.realesavvy.com
Proposed changes to the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) could lead to greatly enhanced investment in low- and moderate-income (LMI) communities around the country, according to Grovetta N. Gardineer, senior deputy comptroller for Bank Supervision Policy with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). The OCC is soliciting comments on a proposal to modernize the CRA by clarifying what counts, updating where activity counts, measuring performance more objectively, and making reporting more timely and transparent. “The CRA has a very
noble goal of making sure banks meet their responsibility for lending, investing in and servicing communities where they do business, with a focus on low- and moderate-income individuals and areas,” Gardineer said. “The statute remains a noble goal, but the implementation is outdated and, in many ways, ineffective.” The CRA was enacted in 1977 as a direct response to redlining, an unethical practice whereby banks and other lending institutions made it extremely difficult, if not impossible, for residents of poor, innercity communities to borrow money, get a mortgage, take out insurance or access other financial services. Redlining did not take into consideration an individual’s qualifications or creditworthiness. Gardineer explains that
a primary reason the CRA needs updating is because the banking industry has changed fundamentally in the more than 40 years since it was implemented. “Among other things,” Gardineer adds, “we did not have the internet in 1977, and interstate branching was not available. “Banks were limited to where they had branches or where their home office was located, so they had a completely geographical approach,” she continued. “With all of the tremendous technological advancements in recent years, banks now offer products and services across the country regardless of geography.” The OCC hopes stakeholders will carefully review the proposed changes and submit comments so that a final rule can be issued in the
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Only Black Owned Newspaper
event
Omaha City Councilman Vol. 72 - No. Ben Gray will commemorative 2 Omaha, Nebraska deliver a address on the Monday, Jan. UNMC campus Thursday, January 18, to on Rev. Martin Luther honor slain civil rights 7, 2010 leader, 50 cents King Jr. Gray’s speech, which is sponsored The Nebraska Medical Center, by UNMC and Truhlsen Campus will be in the Events Center Center. in the Sorrell “We are pleased The Partnership to bring a city For community volunteer leader and tireless non-profit organization Our Kids, a Schools.” to campus,” Newland, M.D., that provides disadvantaged director of UNMC’s said Myrna “The Partnership The mission of students For Our Kids Staples Foundation and coordinator of Equity Office academic enrichment with positive works to for Learning Inc. the Martin Luther provide Commemoration is to teach, train King Day received a $10,000 experiences, has mentary school disadvantaged ele- inspire. Committee. “I and Founded in 2002, grant from Staples students with positive believe our campus Foundation for the founda- can look forward to an Learning, a private academic enrichment experiences,” tion has contributed inspiring and speech.” foundation created relevant said Briana Curran, million to national more than $17 by Staples Inc. manager, Staples The annual address and local charities Funding from SFFL Foundation for is regularly one will support the Learning. “Staples that provide educational opportunities best attended of the city’s Winners Circle events on Martin Foundation for and job program, which skills for all people, Learning supports Luther King Jr. This year, the pro- Winners vides underserved the special event starts at Day. with a Circle program, noon, is free which cre- youth. emphasis on disadvantaged to the public. Guests dents with access elementary stu- ates an environment and open can park in Lot to rigorous math, Staples Foundation the visitor parking where youth are 15V, which is reading and citizenship recognized for for area located on Learning has also their achievements the south side developed lasting the Student Life Center increase their academic activities to teachers, peers, by relationships of at the corner of parents and the achievement. 40th & Jones com- of America, with Boys & Girls Clubs Streets. “The Winners Circle program munity.” Earth Gray Force, is a first-time ensures disadvantaged Hispanic Winners Circle for the 2nd District. elected city council member students have and All Our Kids Heritage Foundation, and the the resources and Initiative joined forces in for a Competitive support needed 2007 to form Prior to his election, Inner City. In addiOmaha City Councilman to Partnership develop an enthusiasm The tion, Staples Gray had a 30-year For Our Kids, to Ben Gray Foundation for for learning,” a television help dissaid Beth Smith, career as nered Learning photojournalist Executive Director, advantaged students. The Partnership supports Ashoka, an organization with the emergency “Kaleidoscope” Winners Circle on Omaha’s ABC’s and host of Nebraska that develops and supports department at Program of The creates a community of caring Medical affiliate station, social entrepre- KETV NewsWatch 7. The Partnership For dents from pre-kindergarten for stu- neurs around The show featured gies to decrease Center to use intervention Our Kids. “With discussions about the world, in nine stratesup- high school youth violence, passionate through tries: port from Staples a variety of such as immediate Argentina, Belgium, coun- Gray has to help Foundation for community issues. engagement after violent won multiple Learning we can Brazil, taged youth graduate more disadvan- Canada, incidents to reduce local, regional tion attempts. continue France, Germany, awards as a reporter, and pursue highretaliaand national grades and standardized to increase er education the photojournalist In 1998, Gray to become employable Netherlands, Spain and test scores for Gray dedicates and his wife, youth throughout the United productive citizens much of his time and host. States. For more Freddie, began ing with the African-American Omaha Public lives of severely who give back information about to improving workto foundation their community. at-risk youth and the to close the Achievement or how to apply gang members. the achievement Council for a grant, is the emergency team He Omaha gaps of children visit www. staplesfoundation.org. Community Connection, director for Impact Public School in the (OPS) District. Inc. — a non-profit, One A sought lence prevention vio- his Martin after motivational speaker, organization. Its members Gray titled Luther King Jr. part- Love,” Day speech, “Strength after one of Dr. to King’s most read books.
Partnership For $10,000 grant Our Kids receives from Staples
KS Science Fair
Excellence Winners
North Omaha Boys & Girls Club Welcomes Club Members New and Old for the New Year
On Jan. 4 the North Omaha Boys & Girls new and old Club Club opened members. The its doors to a new year with Club staff looks new Club parents forward to beginning age appropriate and members. programs for We offer a variety kids ages gram areas such of as, Sports, Fitness, 6-18. We offer five core Leadership Development, pro& Recreation, Character & Education & Career Life Skills, and Development, The Health & from certain schools Arts. We are also offering FREE transportation In order to qualify in the Omaha metro area (please a paid program for this special service all Club call for a listing). membership fee members Spring program and a valid membership must have fee is $30.00 card. Our that will be valid Club hours are from 3-8 p.m. Jan. 4 - May For more Club and ask for Mr. information call 7. Our Dave 342-2300 Happy New Year Felici, Unit Director. and we hope to see you at the Club!
Career & Scholarshi
p Fair
Congratulations to...the King Science & Technology Science Fair. Students Magnet students school congratulated wrote detailed reports, who won awards conducted experiments the eight Award for emony. Pictured of Excellence and presented their projects in the annual are the Awards winners and 7th & 8th grade a display board Alec Williams; 25 first place Luke Armitage; of Excellence winners (l to at least two winners with to r): Emily Beck; and Katie Cramer. Nick Schultz; Ian Brummel; a Breakfast of Champions judges. The awards cerMadeleine Dangerfield; Martha Winterer;
Best of the New
York Internatio
nal Children’s
The African American Career and Scholarship Achievement Council will have its 4th Fair on Saturday Annual High Magnet from 9 A.M. to School, 4410 3 P.M. at North N. 36th St. Those seeking employment should and dressed for come prepared success. Lunch with a resume will be provided. information call 557-4470. To RSVP or for more
The country’s largest film festival for children and including traditional, teens will be making stop in Omaha CGI, collage beginning in January a tour stop-motion styles. and Live Action. Film Streams More than when tries are In presents the Best represented, including ten coun- Recommended English. Australia; 95 min. of the New York International ages: 9 to adult. works from Australia, (NYICFF). From Children’s Film Festival Germany, Denmark, Finland, France, Feb. Jan. 9 to March Latvia, Sweden, 6-7, 11, 13-14, Streams’ Ruth 18, Film U.K. Switzerland, the Sokolof Theater, and Azur & Asmar 18 — nonprofit cinema, Omaha’s within the U.S. Tickets for all screenings Directed by will screen five Best Ocelot. Michel best programs of the for seniors, of NYICFF are $9 general, from $7 students, teachers A dazzling animated series continues the 2009 NYICFF. The dren, and chilfeature about Film Streams’ and $4.50 Young family two for Film Streams boys raised as brothers, Forever Members. and children’s who set off on dangerous quest which is made program, Streams’ All screenings will occur a through faraway possible in part at Film find Ruth Sokolof lands to and free the port from Lincoln with Theater, located Fairy of the Financial Group. sup- the corner of 14th at Animation. and Mike Fahey Founded in 1997, In English. France; Djinns. (for- Recommended NYICFF is dedicated merly Webster) Streets, to promoting one block south ages: 6 to adult. 99 min. Cuming Street. intelligent, of passionate, provocative cinematic More information works for audiences ages 3-18 and on all five programs Feb. 20-21, 25, 27-28, within Best helping to define March 4 — NYICFF Kids of NYICFF compelling f a more online can be found Flix ilm experience at www.f ilmstreams.org A kaleidoscopic Juried by such for kids. www.gkids.tv/tour. collection of well-known filmmakers or animated the best John Turturro, For questions, short films as contact Casey Susan Sarandon, from around Logan at 933-0259 please world, featuring Schamus, Matthew the James email traditional x11 at Modine or casey@filmstreams. animation, CGI, collage, and Gus Sant, the festival and stop-motion. org. The schedule: has been described Van In English. 65 min. Recommended The New York by Times as being ages: 3 to 8. “devoted to the kind of fare Jan. 9-10, 14, that may be found March 6-7, 11, 16-17, 21 — Academy Awards at the Razzle 13-14, 18 — but not at the Dazzle Directed tiplex.” local mulby Darren Ashton. NYICFF Party Mix A mockumentary An all-animated skewering the Best of NYICFF program featuring absurdi- ious, features one live-action ties of competition hilarcomedy and youth dance troupe between kids on the vokingvisually stunning, and thought-profour animated programs, involved circuit – and the shorts, specifically hyper- older parents who intended for audiences. In live through Seniors Alexis English them. titles. Page and Ayomide 75 min. Recommendedor English suband queen at Adekunle were Central High ages: 9 to 16. crowned king Homecoming on
North Omaha Development Project Community Meeting is scheduled for January 28th Details on
Film Festival
On Monday, January 11 on NET1 and NET-HD, Sam Cooke and Marvin Gaye
page 10
See page 2 for details
Benefits of Online Advertising Targeted: You can reach a specific reader based on areas of interest and context of the content. Act Now: Consumers can immediately click on a link to access more information or make a direct purchase.
Sept. 12, 2009.
City of Omaha's Annual MLK, Jr. celebratio n will Holland Performing be at the Arts Center See ad on page 10 for more information
Digital Ad Deadline: Tuesday of each week Digital Ad Formats: JPEG or PNG Additional Charges: Make Ready Production Fee: $40 Hyperlink: $25
www.theomahastar.com For more information contact: tcooper@omahastarinc.com
Festival Self-Empowerment St. Paul Baptist Church July 13th, 2010
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OMAHA STAR
THE
Cause of the People that NO Good Dedicated to the Service that Evil Shall Not Go Unopposed Shall Lack a Champion and
Details on page 4
Empowerment Network
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Nebraska Vol. 72 - No. 28 Omaha,
meeting canceled
next meeting will has been cancelled. The Network Monthly Meeting will begin at 9 a.m. This Saturday’s Empowerment Breakfast and networking High School - Viking Center. be held Aug. 14 at North meeting will begin at 9:30. Displays to help Parents, and the interactive community Development. Tables and Partner. Education and Youth become a Mentor or Adopt-A-Class The focus will be on Opportunity to sign up to Presentations & Families, Students & Community. to help students succeed PLUS Special Interactive ways Learn more about specific Discussions. the web at www.empoweromaha.com. 502-5153 or visit us on For more information call
Newspaper Nebraska’s Only Black Owned
50 cents
Omaha Star Celebrates 72nd Anniversary
Rates
Special Thanks
MILDRED D. BROWN July 9, 1938
Dr. Marguerita L. Washington,
Founded Omaha Star
Publisher
homes as you are hardly can continue to repair and buy I of the people that no good money and invest it “Dedicated to the service now doing, save your believe that the bonds that you and that evil shall not go wisely. Buy more Savings cause shall lack a champion Omaha Star has if and when things may be comfortable unopposed.” been in existence for change. seventy-two years a former pastor of the newspaper, Mildred Reverend Joseph Forbes, In an introduction to and I have been the said, “Mildred was Gilbert wrote: St. John A. M. E. Church publisher for the It is with profound pleashe made her paper To the Citizens of Omaha: a friend of the pastors ... last twenty years. It a platform. She Publishing Co., and [sic] available anytime we needed sure that the Omaha Star seems like yesterday well trained journalistic ministry. She believed that organization of energetic, by saw her work as a that I started after my One entire page day a paper of the people, God had given her a calling. minds, give to you this aunt Mildred Brown We here and now wish devoted to the work of the people and for the people. its was per edition was expired. Some of the Omaha Star dedicates community, submitted by to have you know that in the churches in the you have been supserving the general public the pastors. existence to the task of porters almost from It shall be our policy the struggle for Among her concerns was every way humanly possible. Others of the start. Brown’s primary path of duty in the behalf to move in an unerring racial equality. Mildred became supporters it already had. She worked bringing to you the local Star was in selling Many others became supportfoothold in Omaha than early role in the Omaha Black America in Omaha, to work for equalas the years went by. salesperit, as well as the national give my sincere tirelessly with many organizations of the National She was not only an excellent ads. news of the city as we find To all of you I want to of of tool a welfare as recently. the ads ers backing for could use the She was a member highlights, promoting and son; she found that she to ity and peace. Colored People thanks. to sell newspaper ads Black America in general. for the Advancement of is fascinating. The Omaha her activism. She refused the the citizens of Omaha and She Association Working at a newspaper Publishers Association, sea of journalistic advenemploy black workers. because this is our paper. (NAACP), the Black As we launch out into the of companies that did not Star is especially fascinating her readers to procan the support of the general League, the Urban League Anyone who is interested ture, we sincerely request also used editorials to encourage and she challenged National Business Plains Black museum. This paper is about us. in when we as a group must military Nebraska, and the Great and issues. Where else test the segregation of the public. The time is at hand was submit their story, events the Martin Bomber plant During the time during which it was active, she Omaha Star a firm foundaSince the recent recession, them to apply for jobs that begin to build. Give the She De Porres Club, and also this State can this happen? and reading support and in Bellevue, Nebraska. rollerthe spokeswoman for the tion by way of subscribing at Offutt Air Force Base an emotional, financial building after the paper has also been who is widely rememin turn will build an entermeet in the Omaha Star hired Charles Washington, we will assure you that we are determined to persevere. and allowed it to a mouthpiece and a to support their own facility. coaster at times but we civil rights, as a reporter the club ran out of funds to contact us concerning bered for his work for prise worthy of consideration, working in the commuI encourage the public who was the executive She spent countless hours or even if you want to force for the people of Omaha. columnist. Whitney Young, commucomplaints, recommendations are certainly apprecithe Star as a mouthpiece Urban League before eventu- nity, receiving over one hundred and fifty In addition to offering the secretary of the Omaha the “Unsung Heroine director of the National community in Omaha, compliment us. Your comments nity service awards, including ally becoming the executive for the African-American in behalf of the community by the NAACP, one of editorials. the community to realize ated. The staff is working Award” for service awarded Gilberts also encouraged Urban League, contributed a better and more enlighten honored power 16,000 Africanboycotts to call attention only thirty-five people in the country to be and trying to always have The paper supported the positive effect the buying was small, and is an outstanding often cater time of her death. She she and her staff were if they would carefully paper. Our staff is very with this award by the to discrimination, and Americans could have working to satisfy you. Lyndon B. Johnson as a businesses that employed team and they are always to also appointed by President their purchases only to support base and I wish investigate well. to religious community large Germany a the East have to treated We goodwill ambassador African-Americans and for the support of the churches following the conissue of the paper, Edward express sincere thanks, alleged human rights violations worked to improve Specifically, in the second clergy leaders. She also members of the North Omaha in the community and the our struction of the Berlin Gilbert pointed out that least, I want to thank carriers and her office an ice cream shop Last but certainly not the lives of the newspaper black community were patronizing which would be there would not be that someone did not have Ice Cream, advertisers. Without advertising, workers. If she learned Advertisements of at 24th and Lake, Reed’s hiring practices over she would buy them bags Star Newspaper published. home, Omaha at an discriminatory food their for publicaenough targeted an the printing of the larded The newspaper carriPorres Club. Gilbert spent and retail sales pay for groceries to supply their a decade later by the De advertisers have stuck with Christmas or Easter party shop and counted at least tions. Many of our older us. ers often received a special hour outside the ice cream Newer ones have joined work, when they might approving of their us throughout the years. adverin gratitude for their hard one hundred African-Americans that they don’t have to were given all year. their purchasing power. Others have the feeling them receive the only gifts they hiring practices through Americans we will give in 1989, the Omaha Star divorced in 1943, and tise because as African At the time of her death Mildred and Edward Gilbert in Star readers look at the a circulation of 30,685 her maiden name, Brown. our business anyway. Omaha and had a staff of twenty, and Mildred resumed using for those who support us Mildred Brown wrote, Omaha Star, the longest advertising in the paper thirty-nine states. In 1969, As the publisher of the from those advertisers. persist? The answer newspaper run by a woman, we encourage them to purchase or think our readers “Why then do Negro publishers of his press, all of operating black-owned refuse deprived neighborhood news and For those advertisers, who is clear. If the Negro is Mildred Brown provided through the years since to market to, we encourage than fifty years. The paper are not important enough the tortuous gains achieved commentary for more attention to to ask those merchants and tomorrow’s Negro calling shop lost, by be they will function when our readers his emancipation served an important of the powerful forces, they don’t? If they continue people in the black commuthat do not advertise Why youth will be at the mercy our the accomplishments of man the ramparts of bigthe Omaha Star, I urge values. The newspaper North and South that still to refuse to advertise in $$ nity and emphasizing positive got Mildred Brown their products. Remember who received awards, or otry, prejudice and discrimination.” to do so. From readers to stop buying recognized individuals compelled had previously been closed persisted because she felt speak. new jobs in industries that civic she had established readers, supporters, merIt announced acts of the first edition of her newspaper, Thanks again to my staff, to African-Americans. good writers and all others They highlighted one She guided the newspa- a challenge to herself and her staff, “that no chants advertisers, contributing pride and community charity. labeled “troublemakers.” not of the continued existence eras of the Civil Rights cause shall lack a champion and that evil shall week in order to continue through the tumultuous who lend support to making neighborhood family per staff were On the occasion per to the demonstrations Your help is greatly appreciMildred Brown and her to foster a sense of community. Ms. Brown again Movement, from segregation the Omaha Star possible. for late go unopposed.” Brown in to the racial unrest of the bright and continued future champions of their community, the wilderof the Star’s ninth anniversary, of the 1950s and 1960s, ated. I look forward to a reported the certainly voice in community, congratulated 1970s. The Omaha Star particular. She was an outspoken emancipation not pledged her support to the the Star in the Omaha community.. and 1960s and early locally both businesses their its of occurred of that ness that the tortuous gains triumphs and the tragedies North Omaha on the growth end. up this advice for her Mildred Brown was not are lost, and she worked tirelessly toward that fast development, and offered and throughout the nation. get any further a interested in letting discrimination neighbors. wishes to urge that you The Star on its anniversary
Women of Color in Leadership
2010 Awards
and Engage, Business Success “Power to Lead: Leverage, for the Perpetual stewardship. the theme Adopt & Deliver” was Winters advised the in Leadership steps to 3rd Annual Women of Color Awards group of eight Summit & legacy of Leadership at the Inclusion on their per25, 2010 jourLuncheon held on June Center. sonal diversity Holiday Inn Central Conventionluncheon neys; the Over 200 people attended 1. Know self first – was Marywhere the keynote speaker am I? What do I of CEO’s Who Who Quaites-Ferris, Dr. Marguerita Frances Winters, Author for? What makes (L-R) Tanya Cook, Vicki from the Heart stand Get It; Diversity Leadership Leadership Award Recipients: of the Winters me “me”? Crowder and Soul and President Washington, Annette 2. Value self – What can become? enhance who I am and gifts? Group. How are other ences Inclusion are my unique 5. Learn about others – What can learn from differences? circle to Ms Winters spoke on Women’s is my best self? your different from me? How today. She gave Who 4 . individuals/groups 7. Include others – Expand in the business world 3. Acknowledge your Tawanna Black and Dr. Winters continued on page 2 to sustained sucmy are they the same? examples of eight steps How do differ- See Leadership to change – What are prejudices – In what 6. Value differences – contribute to Open yourself be my best self? cess: Motivation, Passion/commitment, do I exclude? How do I opportunities to grow? To Magnitude of the ways What are my blind spots? In-depth Inquiry, and and transforming, intolerance? gap, Resolve, Learning
on July 9, 1938 History was made
THE
MAHA TAR
Dedicated to the Service of the People Shall Lack a Champion that NO Good and that Evil Shall Cause Not Go Unopposed Nebraska’s
Vol. 79 - No.
Only Black Owned Newspaper
16 Omaha, Nebraska
Friday, August 11, 2017 NAACP Names Johnson Interim Derrick President The
75 cents
Saints Celebr
ate 50 Years of
Omaha Section Salutes 2017 Award , NCNW, Recipients
Award
the Village for details
Beverly A. Rone Field of Education Award
Marching
Deep Roots – Ties
that Bind
Bryant-Fisher Family 100-Year Celebrat ion
Open Rate $480.00
3 Months 10% off
Deep Roots - 4th generation
Lara Wasmoen Bethune Concept Book Award
Honorary Chair Teresa Coleman Hunter
Special Back School Issue to will be at news outlets August 25!
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J.D.
“Family is not an important thing, How important it’s everything.” is always been, very family to us? The answer is, and has important. Indulge moment. After me for a brief the overwhelmed by Civil War, Union military officershistory ex-slaves who were were on the roads, for family members searching Agents of the Bureau from whom they had been separated. Lands, commonly of Refugees, Freedmen, and Abandoned known as the were hired after Freedmen’s Bureau, the war to provide who and ex-slaves, relief to refugees received hundreds requesting assistance of letters from freedmen wrote to the Bureau in locating lost relatives. One ex-slave from Texas with in locating “my a request for assistance own dearest relatives” list of sisters, and included nieces, nephews, whom he had uncles, and in-lawsa long been from twenty-four years separated when he was sold in Virginia before. Others in local newspapers, took out advertisements offering rewards for lost family members (Wilma A. Dunaway, the return of American Family The Africanin England: Cambridge Slavery and Emancipation (Cambridge, University Press, Reconstruction, 20013), 257. 33 82.) Foner, The African-American roots of the family Derived from our are spiritual. African heritage, maintained by shared experiences the Black family has been bond and circumstances, and a common historical despite what would lead you mainstream media to believe, Black remained strong. families triumphed Our spiritual and orientation helped See Deep Roots create a continued on page 3
Lunch & Learn – Aug. 29 See In the Village for details
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NOTICE TO PUBLIC OMAHA PUBLIC SCHOOLS DISTRICT OPERATIONAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT ENVIRONMENTAL/SAFETY DIVISION 2019-2020 The School District of Omaha has addressed the issue of asbestos in schools in a cautious and protective manner. The School District of Omaha will continue with the ongoing asbestos Operations and Maintenance programs, including periodic surveillance inspections that are conducted every six months and the mandatory three-year complete re-inspection of all schools, which was last completed in 2018. The next three-year re-inspections are scheduled to be completed by 2021. With the advent of the Asbestos Hazardous Emergency Response Act (AHERA), it has been the policy of the Omaha Public Schools to manage the asbestos in place except where the asbestos-containing material may degrade or may be disturbed because of planned renovation or remodeling.
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Ashland Park/Robbins Elementary Bancroft Elementary Beals Elementary Belle Ryan Benson West Elementary Blackburn Buffett Magnet Middle Castelar Elementary Central Park Elementary Chandler View Elementary Columbian Elementary Davis Middle Distribution Center Druid Hill Elementary Dundee Elementary Educare at Indian Hill Educare at Kellom ELC at Gateway ELC at Kennedy ELC at Skinner
Field Club Elementary Fontenelle Elementary Fullerton Magnet Gateway Elementary Gifford Park Elementary Gomez Heritage Elementary Harrison Elementary ILP Program at Saratoga Jackson Elementary Jefferson Elementary Kennedy Elementary King Science & Technology Magnet Liberty Elementary Marrs Magnet Middle McMillan Magnet Middle Miller Park Elementary Minne Lusa Elementary Monroe Middle Mount View Elementary Parrish
Picotte Elementary Ponca Elementary Prairie Wind Elementary Rose Hill Elementary Saddlebrook Elementary Sherman Elementary Skinner Magnet Springville Elementary Standing Bear Elementary Student Transportation Transition Program North Transition Program South US Mills Building Wakonda Elementary Walnut Hill Elementary Washington Elementary Western Hills Elementary Wilson Focus Yates
Please know the ongoing efforts of the School District of Omaha related to the management and control of asbestos-containing materials are geared singularly toward providing a safe and healthy environment for students, employees and occupants.
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If you have any questions or would like to review the management plan, please feel free to contact the school district’s asbestos program manager, Shelley Bengtson at (531)-299-0180. The asbestos management plan is located in the administrative office of each building and is available for review during normal business hours.
3 Months $275.00
Willa Midder Julia D. Anderson Visionary Award
By Terri L. Crawford,
Briana Cannon Bethune Concept Book Award
Denise Lee Mary McLeod Keynote Speaker Bethune Shawntal M. Legacy Award Smith, Esq. Human Resources and Talent Development Leader and Lawyer for Social Justice
Community Picnic – Aug. 19 See In
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from this rule making process,” Gardiner said, “it is particularly important to the Comptroller to make sure that we spread a wide net, that we make ourselves available and that we share our vision. “We have really worked hard over the past two years,” she concluded, “closing a loophole that allowed wealthy people to get CRA credit for investing in LMI areas. That is not what CRA was ever intended to do. And that is being directly responsive to some of the feedback we have been receiving.”
75 CENTS
Congratulatio ns Omahans Club, Native & Empowermen OEDC t Network on a wonde rful Native Omahans Week!
By Lauren Victoria Burke “You can’t rain NNPA Newswire Contributor Stepping Saints, on our parade,” said one of lining up for the as the drill team gathered to the Salem The NAACP has pray before 21st named Derrick Members laughed biennial Native Omahans their board of directors, Johnson, Day parade. as they recalled soaked uniforms the organization’s vice chairman of performing in The unanimous interim president. raindecision was the Saints have over the years, 50 to be exact. committee of For 50 years thrilled crowds the board of directorsmade by the executive stepping and with their precision during the that Association’s stories and much always-on-beat rhythm section. high 108th annual convention Many in Baltimore. The the parade when laughter were shared the NAACP is the night before close to 100 largest team staffers rights organization and oldest civil gathered for their former members and drill celebration. 50th anniversary executive committeein the U.S. The reunion of the board is Saturday morning comprised of 14 during the parade, people. wore name tags the alumni members On May 19, with their dates their participation of service. They announced that the NAACP board consider ministry of Salemservice because they were Cornell William the contract of an outreach Baptist Church. Brooks, the outgoing team co-founder president, would According Salem’s pastor, Phyllis Hicks, it was in August to drill Brooks’ contract not be renewed. the Rev. J.C. ended on June holding a parade Wade Sr., had 1966 that Brooks began 30. the idea of his Wanting to shineto celebrate Salem’s annual President in May tenure as NAACP Derrick Johnson youth month. a spotlight on of 2014. (NAACP) of the church, “I am thrilled a drill team was all of the youth to announce quickly began that my friend Derrick Johnson choreographing formed. The girls and colleague has been appointed while the boys marching routines, CEO. I could interim president developed beats not think of a routines. Many to accompany more qualified better, more battle-testedand the of the young individual to guide people found or transition period,” the their said Leon Russell, NAACP through this niche and after board of the NAACP. their the chairman of first the performance, “Derrick’s longtime encouraged him to take decisive service with the Association Rev. will allow action to deal Wade to make will also serve with daily challenges. as the primary the drill He spokesman for have every confidence team the NAACP. I in Derrick permanent. new endeavor every step of the and will support him in this As the rain way.” In a statement came is truly an honor released on July 22, Johnson down said and a privilege Saturday morning, president and to be named the that it CEO of an organization interim aboard Ollie decades. the that he’s served Trolley, for “There’s a lot Hicks of work that needs and several of waste any time the getting to it. We to be done and we won’t original members threats to our are facing unprecedented democracy and marveled at the we will not be sea sidelined while of blue created See NAACP by continued on t-shirts worn by the Carolina blue Although page 2 current and alumni illness members as Jeanpierre and keeps Hicks on the sideline, they filled the Jeffrey co-directors Synceree street. as they carry on the Riggs look to her for guidance legacy. and leadership
The Omaha Section - National Council Negro Women of Inc. recognizes individuals community for outstanding achievement. in the year individuals Each are recognized in medicine, education, for excellence involvement, embodimentleadership, community of the Mary McLeod Bethune Legacy and youth in excellence. Awards will be McLeod Bethune presented at the annual Mary Award Luncheon at 11 a.m. at on Aug. 26 the DC Centre, 11830 Stonegate Dr. The community is invited to important event. attend this The keynote speaker Esq., Human Resources is Shawntal M. Smith, and Talent Development Leader for Omaha Precious Davis Home for Boys. also a social Field of Medicine Smith is justice attorney. Award “Extraordinary The theme is Rising above Women: Breaking Barriers, Lives.” Omaha Challenges, Transforming Section, NCNW women of African advocates for descent as they families and communities. support their It fulfills its mission through research, community based advocacy and national and health, education, services and programs on Omaha Section, and economic empowerment. NCNW is a 501c3 organization. non-profit Omaha Section Davis, Field of 2017 Award recipients: Precious Rone, Field of Medicine Award; Beverly A. Education Award; Julia D. Anderson Willa Visionary Award; Midder, Theola M. Cooper Cooper, Community Theola M. Community Supporter Award; Supporter Cannon, Bethune Briana Concept Book Award Wasmoen, Bethune Award; Lara Concept Book Denise Lee, Award; Mary McLeod Bethune Legacy Award; Aariona Hagler, Youth Award in Excellence For more information or to obtain contact Perlie tickets, Whitley at 402-320-0375. tickets on-line, For go 2017 Mary McLeodto Eventbrite.com and enter under Search Events Bethune Awards Luncheon or Category. Please like them on Facebook: Section-NCNW, Omaha @OmahaNCNW Inc., follow them on Twitter: and visit their omahasectionncnw.w website: http:// eebly.com/
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and Marc Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League. Another recent outreach effort to solicit public input included an Atlanta bus tour with Ambassador Andrew Young. There are still too many underserved communities in the U.S. that are “CRA desserts,” Gardiner notes. “No matter what their geographical footprint, we want banks to be able to offer a broad array of services to communities and individuals throughout the nation. “Given the wide spectrum of individuals who we know will benefit
In compliance with Federal Rules and Regulations, the School District of Omaha has conducted asbestosrelated activities in every building except those that have been declared asbestos-free. The following is a list of asbestos-free buildings:
of Martin MAHA Luther King holida y TAR Ben Gray to speak at Martin
Dedicated to the Service of the Shall Lack a Champion People that NO Good Cause and that Evil Shall Not Go Unopposed Nebraska’s
first half of 2020. Noting that the new CRA rules would fight displacement and harmful gentrification – a high priority in many minority communities – Gardineer points out that the OCC is making a concerted effort to work closely with such organizations as the NAACP and the National Urban League. To that end, OCC has invested the time to meet with thousands of concerned individuals “discussing the issues that need to be addressed.” Meetings are currently scheduled with Derrick Johnson, president and CEO of the NAACP,
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LIFE & STYLE/HEALTH & WELLNESS The Benefits of Having Strong Credit Will Your Dream Job Ever Your credit score is one of the most important measures of financial responsibility. It’s a big part of what lenders and vendors Become Your Reality? look at when considering you for a loan or line of credit. It also Page Ten THE OMAHA STAR
can impact your ability to rent an apartment, sign a phone contract, or even get a job. Once you have established good credit, work to keep it that way so you can continue to enjoy the opportunities that come with good credit. The financial benefits of good credit Strong credit can help you get: • Easier approvals: Mortgage lenders, landlords, and auto finance companies will check your credit to see how reliable you are when it comes to paying bills on time and managing debt. Some employers will run a credit check if the job requires you to access money or sensitive data. • Lower interest rates: A high credit score not only makes it easier to be approved for services but it may also mean you may qualify for a lower interest rate on future credit accounts. You also likely won’t need a co-signer to get approved. • Savings on insurance: According to Certified Credit Counselor Netiva Heard, founder of MNH Financial Services, LLC, having a good credit score can help you save money on insurance rates, though the impact of your credit on this may depend on the state you live in. “Insurance companies have found that those with higher credit scores file fewer claims,” says Heard. As a result, some adjust their rates so people with good credit tend to pay lower premiums. • Additional savings: Having good credit may even give you the ability to purchase a service without putting down a costly deposit beforehand. To learn more about the perks of having good credit, visit the Hands on Banking website. How to manage your credit You can manage your credit to help you with future purchases — such as a home or vehicle — in a number of ways: • Use credit cards smartly: Sometimes simply having a credit card can lead to spending more than you intended, leaving you unable to afford the balance. Failing to pay your credit card balance on time every month can rack up interest and hurt your credit score, so don’t spend more than you’ll be able to pay back. If you’re considering using a credit card to build your credit, take a look at the Hands on Banking website for tips on using one responsibly. • Pay down other debt: Your credit card balance is not the only thing that can affect your credit score. Student loans and other forms of debt can lower your credit score if not managed correctly. Keep track of payments, and try to pay a little more than the minimum balance each month. Keeping your debt low can help you maintain and even improve your credit over time. • Ask for help when you need it: If making payments on time for your credit card or a loan payment becomes too difficult, don’t be afraid to speak with the lender to negotiate a payment plan that works for you. It’s better to get ahead of any potential problems before you fall behind on payments. Regularly review your credit Beyond credit growth, review your credit reports annually to make sure nothing fraudulent or negative has been reported. Every 12 months, you can access your report for free from each of the three largest credit bureaus in the United States at annualcreditreport. com. “Be sure to check the inquiry and personal data sections where signs of identity theft can be spotted right away,” says Heard. Ultimately, strong credit can help you reach your goals by qualifying you for loans, contracts, discounts, and access to even more credit options. Discipline and the ability to pay your creditrelated debts off every month comes first, however. © 2019 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A All rights reserved.
By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia A common New Year’s tradition is the list of resolutions for the upcoming 365 days. For some the list will be improvement-based, like losing weight or obtaining a new certification. Others may focus on different objectives, like a family vacation or finally saving more for retirement. Whatever items your list contains, all resolutions lists share two things in common: some of our goals are attainable, others not so much. If one of your resolutions for the start of the new calendar year is the pursuit of that ever-elusive dream job, you’re not alone. A survey of 2,000 American adults taken by the virtual phone company, TollFreeForwarding, revealed that only about 24% of respondents will ever get to become what they wanted to be when they were younger. And just a tiny fraction of us – only 10% – can make that claim right now. Nearly two-thirds (64 percent) of those that reported working in the job of their dreams, also said that the job lived up to the expectations they placed on it during childhood. Of the remaining 76 percent that have never experienced working in their dream job or profession, over a third (39 percent) say they regret not pursuing their aspirations further. When asked to identify the most significant factor in never achieving those childhood dreams, 34 percent said that they “don’t have the required skill set or knowledge.” Other significant factors include “financial constraints,” (16 percent of respondents) and “I prioritized raising a family” (10 percent). Putting family first was significantly more prevalent among women, with 14 percent selecting it compared to just 3 percent of men. The survey also discovered significant differences in the aspirations of men and women during childhood. Women were much more inclined to select caregiving and public service-related jobs – with teacher, doctor/ nurse, and veterinarian making up the top three. Science and engineering are among the most maledominated industries, and video gaming has long been stereotyped as a male-oriented profession. “These statistics say something about the differences between men and women, and how different upbringings influence what we want to do when we grow up,” researchers concluded. The survey noted that public service jobs, teachers, doctors, and nurses were the most popular childhood dream jobs of respondents. Those were followed by actors, athletes, writers, and musicians. Scientists and lawyers also made the top 10. While those initial dreams may have changed significantly by the time that we achieve our high school or college diploma, it’s common for Americans to wake up one morning, get dressed for work, and realize that our work leaves us unfulfilled. “Normal is getting dressed in clothes that you buy for work, driving through traffic in a car that you are still paying for, in order to get to a job that you need so you can pay for the clothes, car and the house that you leave empty all day in order to afford to live in it,” said Ellen Goodman. For African Americans, who are often still either
Coach Michael Taylor Challenges Men to Make Emotional Health Their 2020 Resolution
Stafford, TX (BlackNews.com) – Coach Michael Taylor, author of The Cure for Onlyness, challenges men of color to get in control of their emotional health in 2020. In his new book, Coach Taylor provides a blueprint to self-awareness, putting men back in the driver’s seat of their lives so they can create their own realities. According to Taylor, “onlyness” is a feeling of disconnection and separation from others because of one’s race. For black men, this feeling is due to negative stereotypes created by the outside world that black men are forced to contend with daily. This daily struggle works to diminish the emotional health of black men and further distances them from their humanity, leaving black men unaware of who they really are. “Every man of color has the potential to create an extraordinary life. The truth is that it’s difficult to accomplish when you are bombarded with stereotypes. I was once under the influence of these black male stereotypes - until I cracked the code. Today, I am living my best life. I wrote this book to share with my black brothers an easy blueprint to overcome stereotypes and live an extraordinary life.” In The Cure for Onlyness readers will find: • The 10 toxic stereotypes against black men • The two most destructive belief systems that keep black men trapped in mediocrity • How to shatter the glass ceiling with a powerful belief system • The single most powerful mindset shift to broaden your horizon • How your subconscious beliefs shape your immediate reality • Getting your mind aligned with your highest goals and vision • The ugly side of positive thinking • How the trap of optimism can be detrimental to achieving your goals • How to find a tribe of like-minded goal-getters to provide mutual support • The 10 keys to creating healthy, fulfilling and mutually-beneficial relationships More than a book, The Cure for Onlyness is an interactive journey into self-awareness. Along with the book, Coach Taylor has created a video masterclass imparting the 10 keys to cure onlyness, an online social network that men can join to connect to a tribe of likeminded men committed to bettering themselves, worksheets, podcasts and much more! Join the movement and take the pledge! Watch Coach Taylor’s Masterclass webinar and purchase the book, The Cure for Onlyness: A Black Man’s Guide To Joy, Passion & Purpose out in stores now. For further information about the book or to order a copy, visit www.onlynesscure.com.
January 24, 2020
the first or among the very few in their family to achieve an advanced degree, the current job or career path can have nothing in common with the career they envisioned when they walked across the stage to accept the diploma. However, a few have adopted the long-held belief that doing work that we love – work that actually makes us happy – has benefits that far outweigh the financial rewards. In the TollFreeForwarding survey, researchers noted the rise of digital technology and social media, which they said had formed a new type of celebrity. As children head for YouTube and video games such as Fortnite for entertainment, they search for idols that align with these interests, according to the researchers. “My dream job was to work in social services with children and families,” said Karen Akpan, a content creator for TheMomTrotter.com, a website that shares budget travel tips, homeschooling life experiences, and parenting information. “I graduated from college with my Bachelor’s degree and couldn’t find a job to pay me over $12 an hour,” Akpan stated. “I then decided to go back for my Master’s Degree, hoping that it would help. Unfortunately, I still wasn’t making more than $12.50 an hour or so and, living in California, that was torture.” Akpan decided to start writing about travel and how she and her family were able to travel on points and miles. She said that’s worked out well despite lots of student loan debt, the economy, and not getting paid the wages she believed she deserved. “Little did I know that I was going to be able to turn my passion into profit. I absolutely love what I do now,” Akpan stated. Robert Remak, who co-founded the men’s attire website, ArtoftheGent.com, said while in college, he dreamed of being a CEO of a Fortune 500 company. That dream became deferred when Remak said he realized that he didn’t want to become a part of an already established corporate culture filled with inequality. “I wanted to create positive change in the overall corporate culture,” Remak stated. “My purpose for wanting to be a CEO was to prove to the world by example that, if you truly put your employees first, you will become more profitable in the long term. Not squeezing out as much production from each employee and measuring them against rigid key performance indicators,” he added. “My dream job when I finished high school was going to med school. My dream job when I finished college was to be a nurse practitioner or physician assistant,” said author and public speaker, Lisa SwiftYoung. While neither of those dreams became a reality, Swift-Young said she did marry, and she now has two adult children. “My daughter and I run a business together, and I published a book. So, although my dream of becoming a physician didn’t come true, I feel like in a lot of ways, I was able to give back,” SwiftYoung stated. “I think we’re fairly stable. We’ve both been employed consistently with ups and downs, but we are definitely in a position where we should be able to retire before the age of retirement. So, my dream job didn’t come true, but my dream life, I’m living it.”
For the Love of You Black Family Health and Wellness Association’s Power To End Stroke Ambassadors are hosting their annual pamper day Feb. 8, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., at Clair Memorial United Methodist Church, 5544 Ames Ave. This year’s theme, “For The Love Of You,” encourages participants to take time out to do something for themselves. Participants will receive free massages, experience aromatherapy, get health education and more. According to the Centers for Disease Control: Every year, Americans suffer more than 1.5 million heart attacks and strokes. Nearly 44% of African American men and 48% of African American women have some form of cardiovascular disease that includes heart disease and stroke. Steps you can use to help prevent heart disease and stroke are: A: Know your family history. Recent research has shown that if someone in your immediate family experienced heart disease, you may also be at risk. B: Control your blood pressure. Blood pressure measures the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries. If your blood pressure stays high, you may suffer from high blood pressure, also called hypertension. High blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack and stroke more than any other risk factor. African Americans are more likely than any other racial or ethnic group to have high blood pressure and to develop the condition earlier in life. To keep your blood pressure under control, find out what your blood pressure numbers are, and ask your health care provider what those numbers mean for your health. If you have high blood pressure, work with your health care provider to lower it. C: Manage your cholesterol. Cholesterol is a waxy substance produced by the liver and is found in certain foods. Your body needs cholesterol, but when you have too much it can build up in your arteries and cause
heart disease. There are different types of cholesterol. One type is high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or good cholesterol that can protect you from heart disease. Another type is low-density-lipoprotein (LDL), known as bad cholesterol that can increase your risk of heart disease. Talk to your health care provider about cholesterol and how to lower your bad cholesterol if it’s too high.
D: Don’t smoke. About 1 of 5 African American adults smokes cigarettes. If you smoke, quit. Talk with your health care provider about ways to help you stick with your decision. It’s never too late to quit smoking. Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW today or visit https:// smokefree.gov/
Other ways everyone can stay healthy are: • Eat a healthy diet – Eat more fruits and vegetables and choose foods low in sodium. African Americans as well as adults aged 51 years and older and people with high blood pressure, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease should consume only 1,500 mg of sodium per day. • Get moving – Staying physically active will help you control your weight and strengthen your heart. Try walking for 30 minutes, at least 5 days a week. This will give you a total of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity. • Take your medications – If you have high blood pressure, your health care provider may give you medicine to help control it. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions when taking the medication. Tell your health care provider if the medicine makes you feel bad. Your doctor can talk with you about different ways to reduce side effects or recommend another medicine that may have fewer side effects. The Black Family Health and Wellness Association’s Power To End Stroke Ambassadors meet monthly on the first Tuesday at 5 p.m., at UNMC Center for Reducing Health Disparities, 5190 Sprague Plaza.
January 24, 2020
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In The Village! Morgann Freeman and Gladys Harrison from 5-7 p.m. in the Milo Bail Student Center. The forum is open to the public. Feb. 4 – UNO’s Office of Multicultural Affairs will host Dr. Ibram X. Kendi, at 6 p.m. in the Thompson Alumni Center (Bootstrapper Hall). Dr. Kendi, one of America’s foremost historians and leading antiracist voices, will discuss his book “How to be an Antiracist.” A professor of history and international relations, Kendi is an ideas columnist at The Atlantic. This event is free and open to the community. For more info, email mca@unomaha.edu or phone 402-5542248. Feb 6 – The Black College & Cultural Enrichment Tour final meeting will be held at Salem Baptist Church, 3131 Lake St., at 6 p.m. This is your last opportunity to reserve seats and pay for the tour which is open to high school freshmen - seniors. The tour, sponsored by Morning Star, Salem and Urban League of Nebraska, is scheduled for March 8-14. For more info, phone Rachelle Tucker at 402-210-1568 or Kathy J. Trotter at 402-658-1259. Feb. 8 – Church on Purpose, 5190 Sprague St., will host WWT: Sister Circle Brunch & Chat from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Join your sisters for an amazing time of sharing, supporting, loving and encouraging. To RSVP and get info about costs, visit www.WinningWomenOmaha. com. Feb. 13 – A screening of “Out of Omaha” will be offered by UNO’s Office of Multicultural Affairs at 6 p.m. at the College of Public Affairs and Community Service. “Out of Omaha” is an intimate portrait of twin brothers Darcell and Darrell Trotter, two young black men coming of age in racially divided Omaha. The documentary examines the twins’ hopes and struggles and how much it takes to overcome disadvantages rooted in historic injustice. A panel discussion with the creators and subjects of the film including Darcell Trotter, Ryan Johnston, Wayne Brown, and Skylar Reed will follow the screening. For more info, email mca@unomaha.edu or phone 402554-2248.
‘A Raisin in the Sun’ at Omaha Community Playhouse The Omaha Community Playhouse (OCP) production of “A Raisin in the Sun” opened Jan. 17. The show will run in the Hawks Mainstage Theatre at OCP through Feb. 9. Performances will be held Wednesdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are on sale now with prices varying by performance. Tickets can be purchased at the OCP Box Office, 6915 Cass St., by phone at 402-553-0800 or online at OmahaPlayhouse.com. Winner of five Tony Awards, “A Raisin in the Sun” confronts life in South Side Chicago through the eyes of the Younger family. After years of battling poverty and racism, the Youngers hope an unexpected insurance check will be their ticket to a better life. With the looming fear that this may be their only chance, the family is torn apart as they struggle to agree on the most effective way to use the money.
OCP will host an audio-described performance of “A Raisin in the Sun” for those who are blind or have vision impairments this Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Patrons who wish to take advantage of the audio description services can check out a headset from the OCP Box Office. For more information, contact the OCP Box Office at 402-553-0800. Director: Tyrone Beasley Cast: Brandon Williams – George Murchison Brodhi McClymont – Travis Younger Chris Scott – Karl Lindner Darcell Trotter – Bobo David Terrell Green – Walter Lee Younger Donté Lee Plunkett Joseph Asagai Faushia Weeden – Ruth Younger Karen Fox – Lena Younger Olivia Howard – Beneatha Younger Richard Borg – Moving Man
Page Eleven
Business Connection
Things to do, people to see, places to go. Jan. 26 – The legend, Kathy Tyree, performs at the Jewell, 1030 Capital Ave, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. For tickets, visit Jewellomaha.com Jan. 30 – Thank Your Mentor Day – A day to show gratitude for your mentor by posting on social media using hashtag #ThankYourMentor. Jan. 30 – The Office of Multicultural Affairs at UNO will host a special musical engagement by Daniel D in the Milo Bail Student Center (207) at 11 a.m. Daniel D is a classically trained and renowned contemporary violinist. This event is free and open to the public. For more info, email mca@unomaha.edu or phone 402554-2248. Jan. 30 – Ed “Smoove Grooves” Archibald and John Mertz invite you to kick-off the weekend enjoying delicious food and great music in a welcoming environment. Whether it’s a romantic Thursday night for two or a night out with friends at Acadian Grille, 5018 Underwood Ave, this dynamic duo is sure to set the mood. Jan. 31 – Black Men United and Black Votes Matter Institute of Community Engagement will host a special edition of the Hungry Club at the new Big Mama’s Kitchen & Catering, 2112 N. 30th St, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Special guest speaker is Scott Frakes, Director of Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, will discuss Corrections’ strategic plan for our prison population over the next 4 years. He will also listen to recommendations from the community on how to combat recidivism in Nebraska. To register, visit Eventbrite. Feb. 1 – NOAH Free Clinic, 5620 Ames Ave, will host Women’s Health Day 2020 from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. The day will feature an array of services including free blood pressure and diabetes screenings, pap tests, mental health assessments, financial wellness info, food and more. Guest speakers include Patique Collins, Nicka Johnson and Joanna Leflore. For more info, phone 402-933-0737. Feb. 1 – UNO Democrats will host Congressional District Two Candidate Forum with Ann Ashford, Kara Eastman,
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YOUTH/EDUCATION NEWS
Delta GEMS Serves Carolyn Scott Rainbow House Members of the Omaha Alumnae Chapter’s Delta G.E.M.S (Growing & Empowering Myself Successfully) program recently provided and prepared a Mexican dinner for 60 residents at the Carolyn Scott Rainbow House, 7825 Farnam Drive. It is a guest house for out-of-town families who travel more than 60 miles for their kids to receive treatment from Children’s Hospital & Medical Center. The facility provides lodging, meals and support for the families during these difficult times. Thirty-Seven GEMS braved the weather and filled five one-hour shifts to prepare a Mexican meal, which consisted of hard and soft shell tacos, taco salads, beef enchiladas, nachos, Spanish rice, refried and black beans, all the trimmings, cookies and four different types of cakes. The GEMS were responsible for cooking all the meal items and cleaning their respective areas with minimal supervision from the GEMS Committee members. GEMS Chair, Tracey Newby, says: “This is one of the most rewarding public service projects we do because it allows the GEMS an opportunity to learn and develop cooking skills, while teaching them the importance of giving back to their communities.� The GEMS were able to experience firsthand the overwhelming appreciation the guests and staff have for the meal donation, as several of them stopped in to tell the girls how good the food smelled and to thank them for preparing it for them. Community Service is a founding principle of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., therefore the program requires and encourages volunteerism of all of its GEMS members. Meal preparation at the Rainbow House is an annual service project for the GEMS. The GEMS and the committee look forward to providing this service. For more information on the Delta G.E.M.S Youth Program or for ways to donate to the program, contact Tracey M. Newby at Omahadstgems@gmail.com.
January 24, 2020
Keith Forte II is iPOP! Model of the Year After auditioning in Omaha, Keith Forte II earned the privilege of competing in the International Presentation of Performers (iPOP!) talent competition in Los Angeles. iPOP! promotes emerging talent to leading agents, managers, casting directors, and music industry professionals. Approaching its 16th year, iPOP! is held in Los Angeles every winter and summer. Performers attend from over 30 different countries. At the event, the performers work with industry experts, and participate in competitions in front of the many agents and managers who are looking for the stars of tomorrow. According to iPOP! organizers, the transformation which happens to many of the contestants is astonishing. They believe confidence is the key to success in life and is gained through experience. iPOP! puts competitors’ experience and development on hyper drive and is designed to be a safe, constructive, and fun first step. Successful emergence into the highly competitive worlds of acting, modeling, singing and dancing requires connections, talent and timing. The iPOP! experience was very successful for Keith, who won Model of the Year and four other awards. Due to his success he has received 29 callbacks from various talent and modeling agencies and some performing arts universities. Keith, the son of Keith and Tamara Forte, is a senior at Omaha Burke and a member of the football team.
Nelson Mandela String Sprouts Perform with Violinist Daniel D Nelson Mandela Elementary is excited to host popular new-age violinist Daniel D for a return visit on Jan. 30 at 9 a.m. Daniel D last performed at the school in February 2018; this time, in addition to a performance, select scholars have been chosen to accompany him on their own violins. Scholars are excited to see him perform, and those selected cannot wait to show off their skills as they play with a professional musician. All scholars at Mandela play violin through the program
String Sprouts, offered by the Omaha Conservatory of Music. Created by executive director Ruth Meints in 2013, Violin String Sprouts offers free music classes to children ages 3-5 in underserved areas in the Omaha-Council Bluffs area and beyond. The String Sprouts curriculum was created specifically for kids. It uses unique compositions that are meant to keep kids excited to learn while also practicing basic music drills. There are play-along orchestrations, accompaniments, and videos to help with practice as well as variations that were
created specifically for practice during the school day. Jessica Davis, an Omaha Conservatory of Music violin Artist-Faculty member, is the String Sprouts teacher at Nelson Mandela Elementary. In addition to the exciting performance by Daniel D, scholars in grades 3-5 will be presenting their first violin concert of the year today (Friday) at 5:30 p.m. at Nelson Mandela. Follow Nelson Mandela Elementary on Facebook to catch a live stream of the concert.
Metropolitan Community College • February 2020
African Americans and the Vote... Remembering the 400th anniversary of the beginning of African slavery in the US A Violin Sprouts concert BLACK HISTORY MONTH KICKOFF: AFRICAN AMERICANS AND THE VOTE Keynote: Maurice Hobson, Ph.D., African American Studies, Georgia State University
Part II: Wednesday, Feb. 12 • 2:30-3:45 p.m. Fort Omaha Campus, Building 10, Room 110 Part III: Thursday, Feb. 13 • 6:30-8 p.m. Elkhorn Valley Campus, Room 114 Part IV: Tuesday, Feb. 18 • 2:30-3:45 p.m. Fort Omaha Campus, Building 10, Room 110
Entertainment: Kathy Tyree, Omaha’s Own Queen of Soul
BLACK CHURCH FOOD SECURITY NETWORK
Tuesday, Jan. 28
Rev. Dr. Heber Brown, III, Senior Pastor, Pleasant Hope Baptist Church, Baltimore, Maryland
6 –6:30 p.m. Meet & Greet with hors d’oeuvres buffet 6:30 –8 p.m. Program Fort Omaha Campus, Bldg 22, Room 201
“I HAVE A VOICEâ€? Clarissa Love and Shawn Love-Bradley, B.A. Journalism, Clark Atlanta University Thursday, Jan. 30 • 6:30–8 p.m. Fort Omaha Campus, Bldg 22, Room 201
SONGS OF THE MOVEMENT Rutha Mae Harris, SNCC Freedom Singer Tuesday, Feb. 4 • 6:30 –8 p.m. South Omaha Campus, ITC Conference Center, Room 120
VIDEO SERIES & DISCUSSION: “RECONSTRUCTION: AMERICA AFTER THE CIVIL WAR�
Tuesday, Feb. 11 • 6:30-8 p.m. Fort Omaha Campus, Swanson Conference Center, Room 201
“IDLEWILD: THE RISE, DECLINE AND REBIRTH OF A UNIQUE AFRICAN AMERICAN RESORT TOWNâ€? Ronald J. Stephens, Ph.D., African American Studies, Purdue University Wednesday, Feb. 12 • 10:30-11:45 a.m. South Omaha Campus, ITC Conference Center, Room 120
ECONOMIC INEQUALITY & THE RETURN OF JIM CROW Devin Fergus, Ph.D., History and Black Studies, University of Missouri
Film discussions led by Arvin Frazier III, Executive Director, College Possible
Thursday, Feb. 20 • 12:30-1:45 p.m. Elkhorn Valley Campus, Room 114
Those who attend three sessions will receive a special gift.
FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Part I: Tuesday, Feb. 11 • 10:30-11:45 a.m. South Omaha Campus, ITC Conference Center, Room 120
For more information, visit mccneb.edu/BlackHistoryMonth Contact bvelazquez@mccneb.edu or 531-MCC-2253
Daniel D performing at Nelson Mandela Elementary in 2018 Girls Inc. continued from page 9 skills and capabilities to influence and improve their local communities. • Exercise regularly and participate in sports teams. • Have higher standardized math test scores and self-confidence in STEM subjects and see themselves in STEM careers. • Be engaged in and attend school, less likely to be suspended, and be prepared for life after high school. “Our study found that girls who participate in the Girls Inc. Experience demonstrated improved academic performance, schoolrelated behaviors, physical activity, and leadership outcomes,â€? said Dr. Deborah Moroney, Managing Director of the American Institutes for Research, a notfor-profit research organization with best-in-class experts focused on social science research, evaluation, and technical assistance.â€? “Girls Inc. of Omaha is grateful to the many partners we have in the community who help us provide the experiences and opportunities girls need to grow
up healthy, educated, and independent. Arts and cultural organizations who help girls with self-expression; corporations that host STEM externships or offer hands-on activities to promote STEM engagement and confidence; institutions of higher learning that offer educational opportunities; volunteers who mentor or coach sport teams; and so many, many more, “remarked Roberta Wilhelm, Executive Director of Girls Inc. of Omaha. “We know from our personal experience that Girls Inc. works and now we have data to support the life-changing impact of the supports we offer.� “HDR is proud to partner with Girls Inc. of Omaha to facilitate STEM enrichment opportunities that help introduce young people to the varying pathways that lead to careers in science and engineering. Through our collaboration, we hope to spark an interest in young women so they can reach their full potential in careers that will help them to break the cycle of poverty,� stated Ann Williams, Associate Vice President at HDR.