Vol. 81 - No. 8

75 CENTS

OMAHA STAR

THE

Celebrating 80 Years

The promise of spring’s arrival is enough to get a nyone through the bitter winter.

1938 2018

Dedicated to the Service of the People that NO Good Cause Shall Lack a Champion and that Evil Shall Not Go Unopposed

Nebraska’s Only Black Owned Newspaper Vol. 81 - No. 8 Omaha, Nebraska

Friday, April 19, 2019

75 cents

Girls Inc. Cuts Ribbon On New Facility

Pro•té•gé: a person who is guided and supported by an older and more experienced or influential person.

Also: Name of new residential facility operated by Girls Incorporated of Omaha serving young women, supporting them after high school as they continue to become Strong, Smart and Bold.

Girls Incorporated of Omaha officially cut the ribbon on its newest venture on April 10: Protégé House, which will provide residential support and guidance to Girls Inc. alumnae, including those who age out of the foster care system at 19.

Girls Inc. purchased the Protégé House building at 3626 N. 65th Ave. in July 2016 from the Poor Clare Sisters of Omaha. The 10,945 square foot former convent will have the ability to house 16 girls in a dormitory style, and will include shared kitchen, living room and programming space. Protégé House residents will be required to either hold down a job or be enrolled in

some form of continuing education.

Girls Inc. Director of Health Services, Carolyn Williamson (“Ms. CT”), will live onsite at Protégé House, providing full-time residential support and guidance for the young women, who will range in age from 18-25. In addition, Girls Inc. will provide continued programming options to residents, including financial literacy, life skills, automotive upkeep, conflict resolution, reproductive health education, and dental care.

The realization of Protégé House became even closer to completion when Girls Inc. received $2.2 million from a 2007 wager financier Warren Buffett made with New York investment firm Protégé Partners. Roberta Wilhelm, Executive Director of Girls Inc., said she always had confidence Buffett would be on the winning side. “When it comes to investing,” she said, “it’s never a good idea to bet against Warren. We’re just thrilled that the proceeds will benefit the girls served through our programs.”

Proceeds from the bet have been invested to provide a stream of income for Protégé House.

Other donors who are supporting the project include Claire M. Hubbard Foundation, Holland Foundation,

Landen Family Foundation, Lozier Foundation, Mutual of Omaha Foundation, Pacific Life Foundation, Peter Kiewit Foundation, Protégé Partners, Robert B. Daugherty Foundation, The Sherwood Foundation, and William & Ruth Scott Family Foundation.

Protégé House will fill a longstanding need for young women in the Omaha community as they graduate from high school and transition to adulthood. “We have so many young women who, when they age out of Girls Inc. or the foster care system, could use a little more structure and support in their lives,” says Wilhelm. “We believe Protégé House will help them focus on their educational and career goals while they are learning life skills and preparing to lead confident, self-sufficient lives.”

Jesuit Academy Announces New Principal Jesuit Academy has successfully concluded the search for a new leader and enthusiastically introduce Glenn E. Mitchell Jr. as the next principal of the academy, effective July 1.

Mitchell comes from a family of educators in the Omaha community, especially North Omaha. He has served as principal of Oak Valley Elementary School since 2015. Before becoming principal, Glenn was a school support liaison for Omaha Public Schools, assistant principal at Creighton Preparatory School and 5th grade teacher at Wilson Focus School, all here in the Omaha community. Glenn earned his Bachelor of Arts in black studies and Bachelor of Science in elementary education from the University of Nebraska Omaha and holds a master’s degree in educational administration from UNO. Jesuit is very excited for Glenn to join their community and is confident he will build upon the strengths of the school. He has demonstrated a commitment, not only to Catholic education, but also to the unique Ignatian charisms that make the school special. Glenn E. Mitchell Jr. Glenn is excited to join Jesuit Academy in making a difference to help enrich the lives of their young men.

Jesuit is grateful to Troy Wharton for his seven years of leadership as principal. His dedicated service to the students and families and his unwavering commitment to the Jesuit mission have truly made an impact on many students, alumni, and teachers.

Petition for Gambling in Nebraska Filed with Secretary of State Proposed petition language to place gambling on the 2020 ballot was delivered to the Secretary of State office April 10.

When petition language is submitted to the Secretary of State office it is first sent to the Revisor of Statutes, who has 10 days to review the language. After the Revisor has completed her review, the sponsor is free to pick up the petition. The Revisor’s comments are confidential for five days.

“We expect the process to take a few more weeks, at which time the requested petition language will be made public,” stated Secretary of State Bob Evnen.

After that it will be up to the sponsors to submit final language to the Secretary of State, after which a sample petition will be created. Sponsors will then be free to circulate the petition. “The number of signatures necessary for deadlines for the 2020 election calendar will not be final until November 1, 2019. We’ll answer those questions at that time,” said Secretary of State Evnen.

The Nebraska Constitution restricts the amount and type of gambling in the state.

In 2015, the Unicameral passed a measure that could have put gambling on the 2016 ballot.

However, the issue was not placed on the ballot because the petition to do so lacked the required number of valid signatures.

Juvenile Justice Conversation – April 23.

See In the Village for details.

MDBMSC has Acquired the Omaha Star

Girls aging out of the foster care system are especially vulnerable, as this population faces significant challenges since living at home is not an option due to homelessness, family dysfunction, parental incarceration, substance abuse, and more. With the mission to “inspire girls to be strong, smart, and bold,” Girls Inc. did not want to turn its back on older members by ending its work with girls when they turn 18.

About the Protégé House concept, Wilhelm adds, “We are taking a leap of faith with this project as we are creating a prototype. Protégé House is a new venture for us and unique among the Girls Inc. affiliate network. We do, however, have a deep and abiding faith in the potential and the dreams of the young women we serve. They are See Protégé cont. on page 3

The Mildred D. Brown Memorial Study Center is pleased to announce that effective April 11 it has purchased the assets of the Omaha Star for its continued growth and revitalization.

Founded by former Star Publisher Marguerita Washington, MDBMSC is a tax-exempt nonprofit that has preserved the archives of the Omaha Star and promoted educational opportunities for youth through a Junior Journalist program and college scholarships.

MDBMSC intends to build on the legacy of the Omaha Star’s past publishers, starting with founder Mildred D. Brown, her niece Marguerita Washington and most recently Phyllis Hicks.

It’s important to help the oldest black female founded and owned newspaper still publishing in the U.S. meet the challenges of a digital age while maintaining and growing its print publication base.

MDBMSC is also pleased to announce that Frankie Jean Williams will be serving as Editor and Interim Publisher. Please see her introductory column in the next issue. We look forward to working with current Circulation/Retail Coordinator Tanya Cooper to grow the business and we appreciate the continued assistance of Retail Distributor Carl Hill and Social Media Administrator Debra Shaw.

To find out more about the Mildred D. Brown Memorial Study Center, please visit our website at www.mdbmsc.org. Board members of the MDBMSC include: John Pierce (President), Mike Maroney (Treasurer), Terri Sanders (Secretary), Jennifer Keys, Jefferey Williams, Jenee Saffold, Sherman Willis, Michael Scott, John Heaston and Erika Kirby.

From Junior High to Barroom Floor, Warrens have Long History of Leadership, Service

By Don Summerside Omaha Press Club From the king and queen of Horace Mann Junior High to the “Face on the Barroom Floor.”

Those are titles that bookend the long history of professional leadership and community service by Thomas and Aileen Warren.

Thomas has been president and CEO of the Urban League of Nebraska since retiring as Omaha police chief 11 years ago. Aileen is assistant vice chancellor for business and finance and director of human resources at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

The two, married for 34 years, were saluted and roasted as Face No. 160 on April 13 before a full house of friends and admirers at the Omaha Press Club. The Warrens are the first African American couple to be recognized as a Face on the Barroom Floor.

Emceeing the festivities was Brenda Council (Face No. 62 in 1995), sister of Thomas Warren and a sharp roaster as well.

As Council put it, Aileen and Thomas, a couple since those junior high days, have succeeded in their “mixed marriage. She’s a North High Viking; he’s a Tech High Trojan.”

Brother Thomas, Council noted, is the youngest of the four Warren children. “Mom was suspected of having a tumor before her pregnancy was correctly diagnosed,” Council said. “So we called him Tommy the Tumor when we were kids.”

The grown-up Thomas? “He’s so tight his shoes squeak,” Council said. (“I call it being fiscally responsible,” Thomas retorted. “I’m frugal.”)

Leading off the roasters was Douglas County Treasurer John Ewing, a Horace Mann classmate

Community Shred Day – May 11.

See In the Village for details.

The Warrens enjoy a laugh during their roast at the Omaha Press Club. A crowd of 175 people attended the event, as the Warrens became the first African American couple to be honored as a Face on the Barroom Floor.

of Thomas and Aileen. “I’ve known Tommy since we were 6 years old, and I’ve known Aileen since junior high.”

At Horace Mann (now King Science Center), the three were competitors for top geography student in the ninth grade, and Ewing said he finished No. 1. However, Thomas and Aileen might declare themselves the long-term winners.

As Ewing later added, “Tom and Aileen started studying together to try and beat me in geography and eventually started dating, so I’m actually responsible for them getting married.”

Thomas Warren’s mannerisms and habits seemed to make him the easiest target of the two-pronged roast.

Roaster Jason Hansen, senior vice president at American National Bank, has been a Warren friend and close observer during his service on the Urban See Warrens continued on page 3

Fish still frying.

See In the Village for details.

Page Two

THE OMAHA STAR

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LOCAL NEWS Great Plains Theatre Conference Announces 2019 Playwrights The Great Plains Theatre Conference, hosted

by Metropolitan Community College, is proud to announce its 2019 PlayLab playwright selections for its 14th annual conference. Representing top emerging playwrights nationwide, the 20 selected playwrights will travel to Omaha May 26 - June 1 to participate in the GPTC at the historic MCC Fort Omaha Campus.

Each year, the GPTC welcomes hundreds of local participants while also attracting theatre artists from across the country. Almost 850 scripts were submitted for consideration for the 2019 GPTC with plays selected through an anonymous reading process.

During the conference, PlayLab scripts are rehearsed by local and national directors and actors and performed in staged readings. At the end of each reading, playwrights receive feedback from national playwrights, theatre scholars, directors and the public in a guided-response setting.

All PlayLab readings are free and open to the public.

Emily Feldman (New York, NY) – “The Best We Could (A Family Tragedy)” Steven Haworth (Garrison, NY) – “Monkey in the Shade” A. Emmanuel Leadon (Glenn Heights, TX) – “Cave Canem” Laura Leininger-Campbell (Omaha, NE) – “Worms” John Minigan (Framingham, MA) – “Queen of Sad Mischance” Matt Minnicino (New York, NY) – “Wyrd” Andrew Rosendorf (Minneapolis, MN) – “Refuge” Whitney Rowland (Minneapolis, MN) – “Wayfinding” Emma Stanton (Chicago, IL) – “When the Tsunami Knows Your Name” Ryan Stevens (Los Angeles, CA) – “The Resurrectionist” Josiah Thomas Turner (Stevens Point, WI) – “Uncle Tom’s Nephews” LaDarrion Williams (North Hollywood, CA) – “Black Creek Risin’ ”

April 19, 2019

Metro Transit Unveils Bus Tracking Site On Wednesday, Metro unveiled MyRide OMA, a bus tracking website that provides bus arrival information and an upgraded trip planner. Metro is testing website features and asking riders to provide feedback on their experience using it.

“This system will be great for Omaha and Metro alike.

Our riders will have access to real-time information, and we will have valuable data at our fingertips, which will help us make our system more efficient,” said Curt Simon, Metro’s executive director.

There are more features to come, and a mobile app is in development.

“It’s been a long process as we upgrade our fleet, and we’re grateful for our community’s patience and input,” Simon said. “This system is the next step toward better transit in Omaha.”

MyRide OMA accompanies a variety of other improvements for Metro this year, including new buses and paratransit vans, new bus shelters, onboard Wi-Fi, and ORBT, Omaha’s first rapid transit system.

2019 PlayLab playwrights Ian August (Lawrenceville, NJ) – “Brisé” The mission of GPTC is to enable playwrights Nancy Bell (St. Louis, MO) – “The People in and theatre artists to share time, energy and talent the Cabin” in the service of developing craft, creating new Amy Berryman (New York, NY) – “Walden” work and strengthening community on a local and Matthew Ivan Bennett (Salt Lake City, UT) – THE OMAHA STAR believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national national scale. antagonism when it accords every man, regardless of race, color or creed, his human and legal rights. “Art & Class” Hating no man, fearing no man in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as one is held back.

The conference is supported by the National EllaRose Chary (New York, NY) – “The Lake Endowment for the Arts, Nebraska Arts Council, and the Mill” Nebraska Cultural Endowment and Humanities Ian Cohen (New York, NY) – “Old Wounds” The United States provides opportunities for free expression Edward Einhorn (New York, NY) – “Alma Nebraska. of ideas. The Omaha Star has its views, but others may differ. Baya” For more information about GPTC, visit Therefore the Omaha Star ownership reserves the right to Alexandra Espinoza (Philadelphia, PA) – gptcplays.com, email theatreconference@mccneb. publish views and opinions by syndicated and local columnists, “Homeridae” edu or phone 531-MCC-2618. professional writers and other writers whose opinions are solely their own. Those views do not necessarily reflect the policies and position of the staff and management of the Omaha Star newspaper.

Readers are encouraged to email letters to the editor commenting At the Star we look at ourselves as the docuThrough the leadership of Shereece Dendy-Sanders, Delta on current events as well as what they would like to see included in Epsilon Omega Chapter President of Alpha Kappa Alpha the paper. Those emails should be sent to: phyllis@omahastarinc. mentarians of African-American news in Omaha.

Sorority Inc., a community service-based organization com and must include the writer’s name, address, email address We strive to make our readers and our advertisers committed to serving all mankind, the Chapter has organized and telephone number. The ownership has editorial rights and does not guarantee that all submissions will be published. an activity designed to enhance the international footprint of the proud they support a publication that portrays the Please be advised that the Omaha Star ownership does not sorority through its Global Impact initiative. Over the course African-American as a multidimensional person employ staff writers who charge for preparing and submitting of the next three weeks, through May 11, the Chapter will be articles for the general public. Should you encounter such, please capable of excelling in areas other than sports, engaged in a collection drive of feminine hygiene products advise Phyllis Hicks at 402.346.4041. for Grace Villa, a non-profit organization, located in Uganda. entertainment and politics.

Grace Villa serves as a home and sanctuary for orphaned and vulnerable girls. The feminine hygiene items will be mailed directly to Grace Villa. The Chapter is asking the community Submissions to Express Yourself must include the writer’s first to assist by providing donations. Many of the girls are rescued and last names as well as the writer’s address and telephone from the streets, child headed households, abusive homes and number. (Addresses and phone numbers are not published.) from child traffickers. Grace Villa provides the girls with an Submissions written anonymously will not be printed. education, healthcare and the understanding that they are loved, In order to be included in the Omaha Star, all articles and Submissions may be edited at the publisher’s discretion. safe, cared for, and empowered. announcements must be submitted by e-mail to fwilliams@ Submissions to Express Yourself or the commentary page may omahastarinc.com no later than two weeks in advance of the Donations can be dropped off on the following scheduled also appear on the Omaha Star Facebook page. Email event. All articles and announcements should be prepared in a dates: submissions must be typed in a Word document and sent word document using Times New Roman, 10 pt. Submissions April 24 - Swanson Branch Library, 9101 West Dodge Rd, to the publisher at: phyllis@omahastarinc.com must be limited to 500 words. Any accompanying photographs 5:30-7:30 p.m. should be submitted in a jpeg or pdf file. The deadline for all May 11 - Child Saving Institute, 4545 Dodge St., 10 a.m. articles is Monday at 3:00 p.m., two weeks prior to the event noon. date. Articles and announcements will not be accepted at the To increase the impact of assistance for Grace Villa, Chapter Omaha Star office. The Omaha Star is now published bi-weekly members are willing to pick up donations. For more information on Fridays. The Omaha Star business office hours are Mondayor to schedule pick-ups, contact deoakaomaha@gmail.com.

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LOCAL NEWS

April 19, 2019

THE OMAHA STAR

Page Three

Warrens continued from page 1

Protégé continued from page 1 worth the leap into the unknown.”

ABOUT GIRLS INC Girls Incorporated of Omaha is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to inspiring girls ages 5-18 to be “Strong, Smart and Bold.” Girls Inc. Omaha opened its first center in 1975, and currently operates two locations in north and south Omaha. Serving over 2,000 girls through its centers and outreach programs, Girls Inc. provides transportation from more than 50 local schools in the Omaha area.

Girls Inc.’s programs cultivate learning and skill development in the areas of academic support and enrichment; career and life planning; self-reliance and life skills; health and wellness; leadership and community action; and culture and heritage. Curriculum and activities are chosen to be intrinsically appealing to girls and to engender interest and enthusiasm. Athletic and enrichment activities are carefully chosen to complement our academic offerings as well as to develop physical health and fitness and to promote teamwork.

In 2016, Girls Inc. collaborated with Nebraska Medicine to open an on-site health clinic, striving to improve the health outcomes of Girls Inc. girls, and reduce barriers to preventative care.

Shannon Graduates from Basic Training U.S. Air Force Airman Frankie Shannon has graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training also earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Shannon is the daughter of Pamela Morris, granddaughter of Roger Morris and niece of Carolyn Foster, all of Omaha. She is a 2015 graduate of Omaha South High School.

League board. Hansen drew laughs with his description of the Thomas Warren scowl and the Warren “awkward smile.”

Roaster Ivan Gilreath, CEO of Boys and Girls Clubs of the Midlands, had a dart or two for Aileen Warren. “She’s a sweetheart, but she hates to be hugged.” (Not so, replied Aileen.

“I’m not against hugging; I’m against hugging you!”)

Jessica (Jay) Warren-Teamer, one of the Warrens’ three children, anchored the lineup of roasters with jokes about her parents’ reluctance to abandon old technology (“No CD player in the new car was a big disappointment”) and her mother’s sleeping habits (“in bed by 8!”).

The “Face on the Barroom Floor,” created by artist Jim Horan, depicts Aileen Warren in The Warrens pose next to their Face on the running shoes, a nod to her jogging workouts Barroom Floor caricature at the Omaha Press and marathon experiences. Pictured with Club.

Aileen, UNMC human resources director, are the “resources” – doctors, nurses and other employees.

As Urban League CEO, Thomas Warren is pictured in his customary white shirt while holding a police shield from his previous career. Behind him is a Morningside College Mustang, his alma mater, and Thomas running for a touchdown in his No. 22 jersey.

And the last words from the honorees?

Thomas Warren: “You guys went easy on my wife.”

Aileen Warren: “We love Omaha.”

Creighton Receives Provisional Accreditation for Physician Assistant Program After receiving provisional accreditation from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education, Creighton University’s new Physician Assistant (PA) Program in the School of Medicine will welcome its inaugural class of 24 students in August.

Graduates of the program, which is only the fifth such program offered at Jesuit institutions in the United States, will receive Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree in just over two years.

According to US News & World Report, the physician assistant profession ranks third on the 2019 list of Best Jobs in America and first on the list of Best Health Care Jobs. A PA is a nationally-certified and state-licensed medial professional who practices medicine as a member of a health care team with physicians and other health professionals.

Students enrolled in the 28-month, two-phase curriculum will demonstrate competence in collaborative patient care, clinical medicine, practice-based learning

and improvement, interpersonal and communication skills, professionalism and systems-based practice.

“The provisional accreditation is a huge milestone for the Physician Assistant Program, which will transform students into compassionate physician assistants dedicated to impacting the lives of patients, and empower them to realize their full potential through a commitment to professional growth and service to humanity,” said program director Stephane VanderMeulen, MPAS, PA-C. Creighton University will begin accepting applications on April 25, 2019 for a second cohort that will begin in August 2020. Graduates will go on to work and communicate effectively as leaders or members of a collaborative health care team to provide culturally competent and evidence-based patient-centered care.

The ARC-PA has granted AccreditationProvisional status to the Creighton University Physician Assistant Program sponsored

by Creighton University. AccreditationProvisional is an accreditation status granted when the plans and resource allocation, if fully implemented as planned, of a proposed program that has not yet enrolled students appear to demonstrate the program’s ability to meet the ARC-PA Standards or when a program holding Accreditation-Provisional status appears to demonstrate continued progress in complying with the Standards as it prepares for the graduation of the first class (cohort) of students.

Accreditation-Provisional does not ensure any subsequent accreditation status. It is limited to no more than five years from matriculation of the first class.

Creighton University has maintained continuous accreditation with the Higher Learning Commission since 1928. For information regarding the University’s accreditation status, visit creighton.edu/ accreditation/.

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å×ÚÚ Ò×áÑÝÜâ×ÜãÓ ÏÜÒ àÓäÓàâ âÝ âÖÓ ¶ÏÜÙ á âÖÓÜ#ÑãààÓÜâ ÏÞÞÚ×ÑÏÐÚÓ àÏâÓ Ýà ÔÓÓ ºÝà ÐÝÜãá ×ÜâÓàÓáâ àÏâÓá ÝÜ â×ÛÓ ÏÑÑÝãÜâá âÖ×á ÑÖÏÜÕÓ å×ÚÚ ÝÑÑãà ãÞÝÜ àÓÜÓåÏÚ ½Ô âÖÓ ÄÝàâÔÝÚ×Ý Ðç ËÓÚÚá ºÏàÕÝ àÓÚÏâ×ÝÜáÖ×Þ ×á âÓàÛ×ÜÏâÓÒ âÖÓ àÓÛÏ×Ü×ÜÕ ãÜÚ×ÜÙÓÒ ËÓÚÚá ºÏàÕÝ ÄÝàâÔÝÚ×Ý ·ÖÓÑÙ×ÜÕ Ýà ËÓÚÚá ºÏàÕÝ Äà×ÛÓ ·ÖÓÑÙ×ÜÕ ÏÑÑÝãÜâ å×ÚÚ ÐÓ ÑÝÜäÓàâÓÒ âÝ ÏÜÝâÖÓà ÑÖÓÑÙ×ÜÕ ÞàÝÒãÑâ Ýà ÑÚÝáÓÒ \ `^_g ËÓÚÚá ºÏàÕÝ ¶ÏÜÙ Â µ µÚÚ à×ÕÖâá àÓáÓàäÓÒ ¸ÓÞÝá×â ÞàÝÒãÑâá ÝøÓàÓÒ Ðç ËÓÚÚá ºÏàÕÝ ¶ÏÜÙ Â µ ÁÓÛÐÓà º¸½· ÂÁÀÇÆ ½¸ aggf^_

PRAISE, WORSHIP, DEVOTION, OBITUARIES & INSPIRATION April 19, 2019 Holy Ghost Temple is New Era Woman’s Auxiliary Hosts National Day of Prayer Auxiliary of from New Era churches. Additionally, three USA Inc. led by President Rev. Dr. Jerry Growing and Expanding theTheNewNewEra EraBaptistWoman’s State Convention of local ministers will deliver short messages Young of New Hope Baptist Church in

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THE OMAHA STAR

Council Bluffs’ Holy Ghost Temple, led by Pastor Mack Reed, is showing signs of great improvement and expansion. Minister Ron Parker and wife, Theresa, have been assisting the church with leadership, elbow grease and improvements. In addition, Ron Parker was recently ordained by the Church of God and Christ. He is now an Elder, under Bishop John O. Ford, Nebraska First Jurisdiction COGIC. The physical church has been dramatically beautified and the music is rivaled by very few churches. The music features saxophonist Norman Love, Josh Reed on keyboard, Bro Len L. Stennis on Lead guitar, Elder Hines Likely, Bass Guitar and Bro Paschal Martell on drums. Most importantly, the church is filling up every Sunday.

Elder Ron Parker invites the community to attend Sunday Services. Sunday School begins at 10:30 a.m. and worship service at noon. The church is located at 300 S. 9th St., Council Bluffs, Iowa.

SOAR Gospel Radio Awards to Air June 21 The 3rd Annual Gospel Radio Awards hosted by Kim Burrell were held April 1 in Rockford, IL. The show, presented by SOAR Gospel Radio and Sunwise Media Inc., is set to air on The WORD Network June 21 at 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT on Channel 373 DirecTV. In addition to DirecTV, it will also stream LIVE on http://www.thewordnetwork.org The Gospel Radio Awards brought together Gospel music’s superstars from across the nation. Karen Clark-Sheard of the Grammy-Award Winning Gospel group, The Clark Sisters, received the Legend Award. Multiple Stellar Award-Winning singer and actress, Tammela Mann, received the Chart Achievement Award. The Grammy-Award Winning worship leader, Tasha Cobbs-Leonard, was honored with the Industry Impact Award, and Dr. Matthew Stevenson was presented with the Luminary Award.

This special evening included appearances by a Who’s Who of Gospel music including Kierra Sheard, Todd Dulaney, Jekalyn Carr, Dorinda Clark Cole, Shana Wilson Williams, Donald Lawrence, Jessica Reedy, Kelontae Gavin, Darius Paulk and other top performers. Comedian Deon Freeman kept things loose and fun with his impromptu stints of humor.

Two-Time Stellar Award winning online radio station, SOAR Radio, and the founder of Sunwise Media, Ri-Karlo Handy, joined forces to expand the footprint of this growing event. Handy stated, “In line with our expansion plans, we are pleased to report that this event will be broadcast nationally in partnership with the Word Network with Monica Wright and Baron Jay Littleton serving as executive producers.”

As a part of the 2019 Gospel Radio Awards, SOAR Radio developed an Indie Artist Showcase that took place on March 31.

The Top (10) artists were selected from dozens who submitted their original songs online to perform before an executive from EONE’s Indie Blu Record Label. The winner, Gus Anderson, received a recording deal and performed at the show. “New talent is the life-blood of Gospel Music and we intend on doing our part to seek out and promote new talent,” said Justin Francis, CEO of SOAR Radio.

Where I First Saw the Light

By Dr. William Holland The cross is one of the most recognizable symbols in the world and rightly so; it represents mankind’s hope for eternal life. Does this sound religiously dogmatic? Maybe so, but how could any sincere Christian give reverence to Holy Week without referring to the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ? Billy Graham is quoted as saying, “God proved His love on the cross. When Christ hung, and bled, and died, it was God saying to the entire world, I love you.”

It’s true the great commission has more to do with the way we live than what we say. Through the concept of evangelism Christians comprehend the world needs to hear how the cross represents victory over sin, but they also need to remember it’s up to them to become a genuine demonstration of what a true follower is called to be. The world is not going to consider accepting Christ as their Savior if the representatives of God’s kingdom are not who they claim to be. If anyone proclaims to be ransomed by the blood that Jesus shed on the cross, yet their life does not match their words, how will others be convinced this is the path God is calling them to take? May we as his followers come to a point in our spiritual journey where the cross becomes more of an awareness of His presence than a piece of jewelry. Charles Spurgeon is quoted as saying, “I find no better cure for depression than to trust in the Lord with all my heart and seek to realize afresh the power of the peace-speaking blood of Jesus, and his infinite love in dying upon the cross to put away all my transgressions.” Before any of us can celebrate the cross as our deliverance, we must understand it was because of us he had to go there.

Included within the accountability of taking up our own cross is discerning when divine opportunities are being presented to share the gospel and when to be silent. Being led by God’s Spirit is much more effective than our clever arguments and emotional enthusiasm.

I confess I’ve failed to recognize the difference and made a mess of things and to be honest there have also been times when I hesitated from embarrassment and intimidation (remember Peter). Our pride causes us to believe our family will reject us and friends at work will label us as fanatics and make fun of us. So how does someone who embraces the cross of Christ learn how to deal with a rebellious world that is trying to avoid it? It is honesty, humility, and sincerity that God uses to reveal the truth about his love and forgiveness to others much more than we can with our social religiosity. Jesus loves you so much he willingly went to the cross and died so that you could be saved and live forever. He rose from the dead and is now waiting for you to respond to his love. Isaac Watts wrote the hymn “At the cross” and here is the chorus. “At the cross, at the cross where I first saw the light, and the burden of my heart rolled away, it was there by faith I received my sight, and now I am happy all the day.”

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

Monday – Thursday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm 402-346-4041

Nebraska Inc. invites the public to its annual New Era National Day of Prayer Service on May 13 at 7 p.m. at the New Beginning Community Baptist Church, 2301 N. 45th St. This year’s theme is “Believers Committed to Praying in the Name of Jesus,” John 14:13-14.

The prayer service will include prayers for families, youth, and the nation led by women

related to the theme. The New Era Woman’s Auxiliary is led by President, Sis. Lillie Holmes of the Salem Baptist Church, and the New Era Baptist State Convention of Nebraska Inc. is led by President Rev. Dwayne Hawkins of the Antioch Baptist Church in Omaha. The New Era Baptist State Convention of Nebraska Inc. is the state affiliate of the National Baptist Convention

Jackson, MS. The New Era Baptist State Convention of Nebraska Inc. is a network of local churches organized to encourage and equip the local church to fulfill the Great Commandment and the Great Commission.

For more information about this prayer and worship service, contact Emma McCruel 402-614-6109.

‘Amazing Grace’ Opens at Dundee Theater On Jan. 13 & 14, 1972, Aretha Franklin got back to her gospel roots by recording a live album, “Amazing Grace,” at the New Bethel Baptist Church in Watts, Los Angeles.

A showcase for the diva’s incredible talents and bottomless passion, it became one of the best-selling records of her career.

Franklin’s label hired the great director Sydney Pollack to film the show.

Due to syncing problems, the movie never met Franklin’s standards. But now, with all the digital technologies available to filmmakers, Pollack and Franklin’s vision has finally been achieved and, simply put, it’s a must see.

“Amazing Grace” opens today (Friday) at 7 p.m. at the Dundee Theater, 4952 Dodge St. There will be a special intro by Mesonjixx, the nom de plume of songstress Mary Elizabeth Jo Dixon Pelenaise Kapiolani Lawson of Lincoln. Her music is grounded in the soulful traditions of R&B and jazz, but her style, much like her name, is an exciting fusion of its own.

Mesonjixx – Photo by Carley Scott-Fields

Kids Talk About God

What Can We Learn from the Road to Emmaus?

By Carey Kinsolving And Friends

presence in the life of every Christian. Like the two disciples on the road to Emmaus, we can remain oblivious to spiritual reality as we journey, or we can take time to break bread with the Master and have our eyes opened.

“They did not know him because their brains were thinking of that awful thing that happened in Jerusalem,” says Trip, 8.

The Academy Award-winning movie “A Beautiful Mind” portrays the wonder and fragility of mathematical genius John Forbes Nash Jr. There’s a sense in which Nash’s story is our own. Our minds can be truly beautiful or deeply dark.

Only a renewed mind fixed on the resurrected Christ has the capacity for true resilience and beauty. God wants all Christians to experience a new world of grace, forgiveness and understanding beyond the dark grip of jealousy, bitterness, revenge and other mental sins that can drive us into depression and even insanity.

On the website for “A Beautiful Mind,” it says, “He saw the world in a way no one

could have imagined.”

Wasn’t the problem of the disciples on the road to Emmaus a lack of seeing? They couldn’t imagine a world in which Jesus had broken the chains of death. Isn’t this our problem as well?

On Easter morning, we put on our finest clothes to celebrate his resurrection only to find that it’s the same old thing on Monday morning. We long for the reality of the new world promised by Jesus’ resurrection only to find ourselves swallowed up in the drudgery of the old world.

“They didn’t recognize him at first because their eyes weren’t opened. When Jesus broke the bread, then their eyes were opened,” says Mandy, 11.

Stop your journey today, and break the bread of fellowship with the resurrected Lord. Only then will your eyes be opened to the reality of his presence and the availability of his resurrection life. Just as he shared bread with those disciples, he longs to share his life with you today.

As a journalist, I can imagine the conversation with the two Emmaus-bound disciples as a post-resurrection interview carried by a major television network. What makes this account so unusual is that Jesus plays the role of the interviewer. Instead of the camera fading at the end of the interview, Jesus fades when the disciples discover his true nature.

What can we learn from this mysterious appearance?

“They didn’t recognize him because he was probably wearing raggedy clothes, and it didn’t look like Jesus,” says Cory, 9.

We shouldn’t expect God to meet our preconceived ideas of how he should appear.

God isn’t confined to a Sunday morning church service or a trip to a foreign mission field. Jesus will appear whenever and wherever he chooses. If our hearts aren’t prepared, we’ll keep walking down the road of life without seeing him.

“They thought he was dead,” says Kendall, 7. “They didn’t know he was alive,” adds Adam, 10.

Although Jesus’ resurrection is the difference between Christianity and all other afterlife claims, many believers live as if Jesus remains in the tomb. The reality of this new life somehow gets lost amid bills to pay, errands to run and the Dedicated to the Service of the People that NO Good Cause business of everyday life.

How many Christians Shall Lack a Champion and that Evil Shall Not Go Unopposed can assert the reality of the resurrection in the Apostle Paul’s life: “I have been crucified with SUPPORT THE OMAHA STAR NEWSPAPER BECAUSE: Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the • As a member of NNPA, it keeps you in touch with the Events, People, and News in your Community and across the Nation. life which I now live in the flesh • We are the only Black owned newspaper in the State of Nebraska– since 1938. NNPA memI live by faith in the Son of God, ber newspapers have longevity. who loved me and gave himself • It carries advertisers who want your business and cater to your needs, as a NNPA member for me” (Galatians 2:20)? newspaper, member newspapers reach more than 19 million of the 39 million Black consumLive by your life or the Lord’s ers every week. resurrected life. Heaven’s To subscribe contact: invasion of this planet began Omaha Star Inc. 2216 North 24th St. - Omaha, NE 68110 • 402-346-4041 Op 5 with Jesus’ incarnation and continues with his indwelling

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

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PRAISE & WORSHIP DIRECTORY

April 19, 2019

Rev. Benjamin R. Finnell

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

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

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

ST. MARK BAPTIST CHURCH

MOUNT CALVARY COMMUNITY CHURCH

ALLEN CHAPEL A.M.E.

THE OMAHA STAR Page Five

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

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

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

Sunday School – Sunday 9:00 a.m.

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

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

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

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

Worship Service – Sunday 10:15 a.m.

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

Pastor Jarrod S. Parker

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

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

MT. MORIAH MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

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

WEDNESDAYS Prayer 6:00 PM Worship 7:00 PM

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

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

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

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

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

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

BIBLE TRUTH MINISTRIES

Pastor Rordy Smith Pastor Ramona Smith

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

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

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

Weekly Services Sunday Morning Worship Service ..................................8:30 a.m. & 11:30 a.m.

Children’s Church (2nd & 4th Sunday) .............................8:30 a.m. & 11:30 a.m.

Life Development (Sunday School) .....................................................10:15 a.m.

Wednesday Word and Worship (WWW) ............................................ 6:30 p.m.

MT. NEBO MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

“The Church Where Fellowship is Real” Pastor Terry L. Arvie 5501 N. 50th Street Ph: 402-451-4245 Fx: 402-451-2130 office@mtneboomaha.org www.mtneboomaha.org

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

Pastor Terry L. Arvie

“Come Get Your Hilltop Experience” Rev. Portia A. Cavitt, Pastor 5544 Ames Avenue, Omaha, NE 68104 Telephone: 402-451-8322 • Website: www.cmumc.net Email: clairumc@cumc.omhcoxmail.com Sunday School………………………8:45 a.m.

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

Wednesday Bible Study….…….…….6:00 p.m.

Pastor Barbara Mitchell

Rev. Portia A. Cavitt, Pastor

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

Rev. Dr. Selwyn Q. Bachus

Sunday Morning Worship ...................................9:00 a.m.

Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting .....................7:00 p.m.

Wednesday Night Church School ......................7:30 p.m.

Youth/Children Ministry Focus (Wed.) ............7:30 p.m.

CLAIR MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

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

PLEASANT GREEN BAPTIST CHURCH

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

“Where CHRIST is Preeminent and the Word Prevails!”

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

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

Rev. Kenneth A. Allen, Pastor

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

7020 Cass Street, Omaha, NE 68132 402.556.6262 www.fumcomaha.org First United Methodist Church is a welcoming and inclusive community, inspired to grow with and in God.

ZION BAPTIST CHURCH

Pastor Brian Page

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

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

Sunday: Sunday School.................................................9:00 a.m.

Morning Worship..........................................10:15 a.m.

2215 Grant Street Omaha, NE 68110 Ph: 402-346-1502 Fax: 402-344-2720 SUNDAY Sunday Morning Worship……………9:00 A.M. Sunday School……………………...11:15 A.M. WEDNESDAY 11:00 A.M. ~ Hour of Power Bible Study Wednesday is Family Night!

6:00 P.M. ~ Prayer & Praise Service 6:30 P.M. ~ Feast & Fellowship (Light Meal) 7:15 P.M. ~ Discipleship Academy (Classes for ages 5 & up)

Pastor Kenneth A. Allen

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

Reconciliation: Sunday after Mass or by appointment

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

HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH Missouri Synod 2721 N. 30th Street 402-453-1583 Sunday School................................10:00 a.m.

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

YOU ARE ALWAYS WELCOME

Rev. Vitalis Anyanike

& HOLY NAME CATHOLIC CHURCH

2901 Fontenelle Blvd. 68104 Ph: 402-451-6622 • Fax 402-457-6901 Mass Schedule: Mon. - Fri. 8:30 a.m., Sat. 8:30 a.m. & 5:00 p.m.

Sun. 8:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m. & Noon (Spanish) Reconciliation: Sat. 4:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. or by appointment

JOY OF LIFE MINISTRIES COGIC Pastors Eric and Cynthia Butler 6401 N. 56th Street • Omaha, NE 68104 Ph: 402-399-9628 E-Mail: Jolpastor@aol.com Sunday School...................................9:30 a.m.

Sunday Worship...............................10:30 a.m.

Sunday Evening Worship.................6:00 p.m.

Wednesday Night ..............................7:00 p.m.

Bible Study and Youth Ministries

Pastor: Rev. Vitalis Anyanike

Pastor Eric Butler and Co-Pastor Cynthia Butler

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

Rev. Dr. Leroy E. Adams, Jr.

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

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

THE WORSHIP CENTER

Dr. Stan Rone Senior Pastor

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

Dr. Stan Rone - Senior Pastor 2021 N. 24th Street • Omaha, NE 68110 (402) 341-4297 Sunday Kingdom Academy 9:00 a.m.

Worship Celebration 10:15 a.m.

Tuesday Prayer Hour 7:00 a.m. & 12:00 noon Wednesday Power Hour (Prayer/Bible Study) 6:30 p.m.

Youth and Children 6:30 p.m. www.theworshipcenter24cog.org

COMMENTARY/NATIONAL April 19, 2019 After Historic Win, Tiger Woods to be Mentoring Matters Awarded Medal of Freedom Enhance Mentoring Through Sharing Skills

Page Six

THE OMAHA STAR

By Debra L. Shaw “The best way a mentor can prepare another leader is to expose him or her to other great people.’ – John C. Maxwell.

(Photo: Screencapture YouTube)

By Lauren Victoria Burke NNPA Newswire Contributor On April 15, President Trump announced he will award championship golfer Tiger Woods with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Woods and Trump have golfed together in Florida over the years.

Woods won his fifth Masters title and 15th major title overall on April 14. He is now only three major titles away from the record set by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, the sole remaining major golf record left unbroken by Woods.

“I felt for a long time he was going to win again. And, you know, the next two majors are at Bethpage, where he’s won (2002 US Open), and Pebble Beach, where he’s won (2000 US Open).

So, you know, he’s got me shaking in my boots, guys,” Nicklaus remarked on the Golf Channel.

Woods has come a long way back from health and personal obstacles. In 2010, he and his then wife of six years went through a divorce after he took a break from golf for a year in an attempt to save the marriage. Woods’ rank fell to number 58 in November 2011. But he would reach the No.1 position again in March 2013 and May 2014.

Woods underwent back surgery on Sept. 16, 2015. In late March 2016, he announced that he would miss the Masters while recovering from surgery. Woods also missed the 2014 Masters due to a back pain. “I’m absolutely making progress,

and I’m really happy with how far I’ve come. But I still have no timetable to return to competitive golf,” Woods stated at the time.

In 2017, he underwent spinal fusion surgery. He referenced the medical advice he received after his Masters victory saying he was told he may never play golf again. On Oct. 27, 2017, Woods was arrested for driving under the influence. It was widely speculated by sports observers that Woods’ career might be over. It wasn’t. Woods pled guilty to reckless driving and was put on a diversion program. He then returned to the golf circuit in 2018.

Woods, 43, won his fifth Masters Tournament title at Augusta National on April 14 – winning it for the first time since 2005 – the longest period ever between wins in that tournament.

“Spoke to @TigerWoods to congratulate him on the great victory he had in yesterday’s @ TheMasters, & to inform him that because of his incredible Success & Comeback in Sports (Golf) and, more importantly, LIFE, I will be presenting him with the PRESIDENTIAL MEDAL OF FREEDOM!” Trump tweeted on April 15.

(Lauren Victoria Burke is an independent journalist and writer for NNPA as well as a political analyst and strategist as Principal of Win Digital Media LLC. She can be contacted at LBurke007@gmail.com and on Twitter at @ LVBurke.)

This quote leads right into the in depth research from this website – https:// www.americanexpress.com/en-us/business/ trends-and-insights/articles/mentoring-canhelp-improve-leadership-skills/. Review the following details: ‘A mentoring relationship may be a powerful way to accelerate learning and boost leadership skills for any entrepreneur, business owner or leader. The potential benefits of having a mentor are many. Mentors may help you focus and gain clarity on issues. They may inspire you and provide encouragement and moral support when needed. They may also facilitate access to people in their network that might be a resource for you. A mentor may also provide candid feedback that others may not. For example, a good mentor may hold up a mirror to you that might help you see how your beliefs or perspectives may hold you back from making the bold moves you might want to make. In a nutshell, a good mentor may help you discover your hidden strengths. It’s akin to having a trusted friend.

An effective way of helping you grow your leadership skills may be becoming a mentor yourself. We don’t often talk about the skills we can strengthen from being a mentor. Here are some keys leadership skills to consider: For many leaders suffering from information overload, listening intently may be a challenge.

Even with the best will, it may be difficult to give everyone your undivided attention. Mentoring, on a regular basis, may help you train yourself to focus your full attention on others when they’re speaking to you. This is one practice that could pay dividends in your leadership development; Mentoring may help you see things with new

eyes. Consider mentoring people who are different from you. This may include people in different industries, millennials, baby boomers, the opposite gender, people with disabilities or personnel with a military background to name a few. This diversity in mentoring opportunities may help you see multiple perspectives, which in turn could broaden and enrich your thinking.

Learning to appreciate multiple perspectives may also enhance your problem-solving skills by helping you generate multiple solutions to a problem. It’s all about helping you develop leadership agility. Mentoring is not about telling people to do this or that. Rather it’s about showing them the possibilities. One of the most memorable ways of doing this is through storytelling. Stories are the Velcro that can help make the message stick. There are likely many stories from your own experience that can help those you mentor. Storytelling can also be useful in your own role as a leader. Yet many business people may be reluctant to use storytelling because they may feel that they don’t have the required skills. That’s where practicing storytelling within a mentoring relationship may help. Such relationships usually provide a safe environment because they’re generally based on mutual trust. Storytelling in this arena becomes a win-win for both parties.’

This quote captures the essence of mentoring and the value of a mentor intentionally guiding mentees into the right direction – “Mentoring brings us together – across generation, class, and often race – in a manner that forces us to acknowledge our interdependence, to appreciate, in Martin Luther King Jr.’s words, that ‘we are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied to a single garment of destiny.’ In this way, mentoring enables us to participate in the essential but unfinished drama of reinventing community, while reaffirming that there is an important role for each of us in it.” – Marc Freedman.

Visit http://mentornebraska.org to learn more about how to become a mentor volunteer.

Mentor Matters!

‘I AM – Be the Change’ will Build on Legacy of King and Sanitation Workers WASHINGTON – The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) has launched “I AM – Be the Change,” a bold effort to engage young African Americans and Latinos to answer the call of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the 1,300 Memphis sanitation workers to be the change in their communities and fight for social and economic justice.

“I AM – Be the Change” builds on the groundswell of activism fueled by the I AM 2018 program, which led thousands of Americans in honoring the 50th anniversary of the historic 1968 Memphis Sanitation Worker Strike and the assassination of Dr. King. Through a national moment of silence, youth town halls, activist

trainings and a march on Memphis uniting thousands of civil, faith and labor leaders and advocates, communities across the country committed to voting in the midterm elections and continuing Dr. King’s and the sanitation workers’ struggle for equal treatment, fair wages, and a voice on the job.

“I AM – Be the Change” seeks to expand on the successes of 2018, when voters elected a proworker majority in the House of Representatives, seven pro-worker governors and more pro-worker state legislators than at any time in almost a decade.

The initiative will keep young people engaged by highlighting issues such as excessive student

Destined to Succeed Whatever your child wants to be is within reach when you are involved.

Your engagement in their education will prepare them for the future.

To learn more about the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) and how you can advocate for your children, visit us at www.nnpa.org/essa Sign-up for our ESSA alerts at www.nnpa.org/essa

© 2019 NATIONAL NEWSPAPER PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION

loan debt, lack of affordable housing and lack of good-paying jobs. “‘I AM – Be the Change’ is meant to inspire young people of color to take action online and offline to drive change in their communities,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. “We intend to create a year-round organizing presence in disenfranchised communities that are too often ignored after Election Day and to inspire black and Latino youth to reclaim Dr. King’s and the sanitation workers’ fight for civil rights and workers’ rights as their own.”

Motivated to reverse the declining voter participation rates among black and Latino voters, AFSCME’s I AM program is spearheading the

effort in 2020 and beyond to continually engage and mobilize young people of color.

To open a conversation on the issues affecting the next generation, I AM will use Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to empower young people with the resources they need to stay politically engaged past Election Day. Additionally, AFSCME will build an online hub for civic and economic empowerment where community members can learn about the challenges facing working people, how to mobilize their neighbors and how to hold elected officials accountable – ensuring that organizing at the local level is led by those who know their communities the best.

April 19, 2019

LOCAL NEWS/YOUTH NEWS

Science Made Fun at Omaha Public Library The Nebraska Science Festival (NE SciFest) is a statewide science celebration designed to make science accessible, interactive, relevant and fun for all ages. Events will take place across Nebraska through April 28 to help people engage in science-related activities and stimulate curiosity in the world around them. Many of these events are taking place at Omaha Public Library locations. All library programs are free to attend, though some have age recommendations and registration requirements. Contact the hosting location with questions or visit omahalibrary.org for more information.

Tuesday, April 23, 4:30 p.m.: Nintendo LABO Vehicles at A.V. Sorensen Branch, 4808 Cass St., 402-444-5274. Registration required.

Wednesday, April 24, 10:30 a.m.: Block Play Visits Toddler Storytime at A.V. Sorensen Branch Thursday, April 25 • 9:30 a.m.: Take a Deep Breath Family Storytime at Millard Branch • 10:15 a.m.: City Nature Challenge Storytime at Benson Branch, 6015 Binney St., 402-444-4846 • 10:30 a.m.: Take a Deep Breath Family Storytime at Millard Branch Saturday, April 27 • 10:15 a.m.: City Nature Challenge Storytime at Benson Branch • 10:30 a.m.: City Nature Challenge Storytime at Saddlebrook Branch • 1:30 p.m.: Art Time! Photography at Benson Branch For more information on these and additional upcoming events and resources at Omaha Public Library’s 12 metro locations, visit omahalibrary.org.

Learn more about the Nebraska Science Festival at nescifest. com.

Sarpy County Waives Fees for Repairing, Renovating Flooded Homes The Sarpy County Board of Commissioners has voted unanimously to waive permit fees for residents and property owners working to repair, renovate or demolish homes damaged by the recent flooding.

“People dealing with a flooded home are already facing a large financial burden without the additional cost of permit fees,” said Sarpy County Board Chair Don Kelly. “Our main objective is to make it as easy as possible for people to repair their homes and rebuild their lives.”

The board waived all building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical and floodplain development permit fees to repair or renovate structures affected by the March 2019 flood. They also waived the permit fees to demolish structures damaged by the flood.

If a property owner chooses to rebuild after demolishing a home, they will be responsible for any applicable permit fees associated with the new construction.

THE OMAHA STAR

Page Seven

African Culture Connection Receives Grant African Culture Connection (ACC) has announced the receipt of an $8,000 grant from Lincoln Financial Foundation for the ACC/OPS Multicultural Arts/Middle School Social Studies Curriculum Integration Program.

“This is great news and greatly appreciated,” said Charles Ahovissi, Artistic Executive Director of The African Culture Connection. “Funding from Lincoln Financial Foundation supports the meaningful work we do in the Omaha metro area, teaching African culture & history through authentic dance, music, drumming, and visual arts.”

The $8,000 awarded by the Lincoln Financial Foundation, will support African Culture Connection’s ACC/OPS Multicultural Arts/Middle School Social Studies Curriculum Integration Program.

This collaboratively developed program will

integrate 26 days of African arts education into the 6th grade African history and the 7th grade African culture social studies curricula in the 2018-2019 school year. The unique program will be implemented at three OPS middle and three OPS elementary schools, as well as out-of-school programs Collective for Youth, Girls, Inc. and Nelson Mandela Elementary (7 locations). This novel integration promises better learning and retention of both multicultural arts skills and social studies content learning as well as improved student motivation for and engagement in all learning.

ABOUT LINCOLN FINANCIAL FOUNDATION The Lincoln Financial Foundation, established in 1962, is a nonprofit organization formed and supported

by Lincoln Financial Group. Under the

Foundation guidelines, grants are made in the areas of arts, education, human services and economic/workforce development.

ABOUT AFRICAN CULTURE CONNECTION African Culture Connection is an organization of professional teaching and performing artists using authentic African dance, music, visual arts and storytelling to encourage students to learn more about the positive contributions African cultures have made to society. Founded by Charles Ahovissi, a professional dancer, drummer, performer, choreographer, stage costume designer, and tailor from Benin, West Africa, African Culture Connection’s mission is to educate audiences through African culture and art experiences, to encourage an appreciation for the richness diversity brings to all.

OPS to Hold Boundary Change Open Community Meetings The Omaha Public Schools recognizes and supports the need for planning for the future of our school district. To accommodate current and future needs of OPS students, the district held a series of meetings to assist in the development of a redistricting boundary plan to accommodate the opening of five new schools: two elementary, one middle and two high schools.

The meetings took place on Feb. 13 and 14 for principals and Feb. 27 and 28 for staff, students, parents and community members.

Additional focus group meetings involving larger groups of principals, staff, students, parents and community members took take place on April 2, 3 and 4.

A compilation of the boundary options

created during those meetings will be presented to the broader community April 22, 23, 29 and 30 and May 6, 7 and 8.

The district has invited the broader community to attend the upcoming open community meetings regarding proposed changes to south Omaha elementary and middle school attendance boundaries and the high school attendance boundaries. The dates, times and places of the meetings are as follows: Burke High School – Gym Monday, April 22, 6-8 p.m.

South High Magnet School – Gym Tuesday, April 23, 6-8 p.m.

Central High School – Cafeteria Monday, April 29, 6-8 p.m.

Northwest High Magnet School –

Cafeteria Tuesday, April 30, 6-8 p.m.

North High Magnet School – Viking Center Monday, May 6, 6-8 p.m.

Benson High Magnet School – Cafeteria Tuesday, May 7, 6-8 p.m.

Bryan High School – Library Wednesday, May 8, 6-8 p.m.

The results of the feedback from these meetings will be reviewed by the committee and the consulting firm to create its final recommendations to the Board of Education.

The Board will review and vote on the final recommendation sometime this summer.

Paint-A-Thon Seeks Homeowners and Teams Applications for BRUSH UP Paint-A-Thon are now available.

Homeowners in the Omaha metro area, including Council Bluffs, can now apply online at www.brushupnebraska.org, and teams wishing to volunteer to paint homes can register online at the same website. The deadline for homeowner applications and team registrations is May 30.

Paint-A-Thon is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. The organization helps low-income homeowners in Douglas and Sarpy Counties, and in Council

‘Laid Off & Launching It’ Event to Help Displaced Workers

Bluffs, Iowa, who are over 60 or permanently disabled at any age, by painting the exteriors of their homes. Applicants must meet the resident and financial guidelines listed on the official application.

Qualified homeowners will have their homes painted at no charge to them on “Paint Day” Aug. 17.

Homeowner Applications are available at any Wells Fargo Bank, online at www. brushupnebraska.org or by phoning 211.

Team Registration forms are available at www. brushupnebraska.org or by phoning 402-965-9169.

Paint-A-Thon started in 1989 as a community partnership to paint the homes of older adults and disabled homeowners who are unable to either physically or financially paint their homes.

Since the program’s inception, volunteer teams have painted 2,890 homes. The goal for 2019 is to paint 75 homes with the help of over 1,400 volunteers.

BRUSH UP NEBRASKA

HUD Announces Disaster Assistance for Nebraska Storm Victims

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has announced it will speed federal disaster assistance to the State of Nebraska and provide support to homeowners and low-income renters forced from their homes in areas affected by severe winter storms, straight-line winds, and flooding.

On March 21, President Trump issued a major disaster declaration for Boone, Buffalo, Butler, Cass, Colfax, Custer, Dodge, Douglas, Knox, Nemaha, Richardson, Santee Indian Reservation, Sarpy, Saunders, Thurston, and Washington counties.

The President’s declaration allows HUD to offer foreclosure relief and other assistance to certain families living in these counties. HUD is: • Providing immediate foreclosure relief – HUD’s automatic 90-day moratorium on foreclosures of Federal Housing Administration (FHA)-insured home mortgages commenced for the Nebraska ABOUT AIM INSTITUTE AIM Institute is an innovative nonprofit that grows, connects and inspires the tech talent community counties covered under yesterday’s Presidential through career development and educational programs. Through these efforts, we improve thousands of declaration on the date of the declaration. For assistance, phone your loan servicer or FHA’s lives across the Silicon Prairie. More information about AIM is available at aiminstitute.org.

Resource Center at 1-800-304-9320; • Making mortgage insurance available – ABOUT FRANNET OF THE HEARTLAND HUD’s Section 203(h) program provides FHA FranNet is an International Franchise Consulting Firm that provides education and support to individuals who are interested in exploring self employment as a career option through franchised business ownership.

There are hundreds of workers in the Omaha region looking for their next opportunity due to employer downsizing, layoffs and business closures. AIM Institute, FranNet of the Heartland, and growmedia. com will host “Laid off and Launching It” on May 1 at AIM Institute to help individuals identify new technical careers or entrepreneurial pathways.

This free public event will be held from noon to 1:30 p.m. in downtown Omaha at the AIM Exchange building, 1905 Harney St., on the 7th floor. Attendees may join for all or part of the event. Registration is recommended but not required. Register at: http://bit.ly/LaidOffandLaunchingIt A “Q and A” format panel discussion will provide insight on re-training or self-employment for professionals in career transition. Speakers include: • Tony Veland, AIM Institute Director of Business Development. and Ellen Myer, Director of Interface Web School, will address topics related to AIM’s Interface Web School and how people can launch a technical career through its course training options.

• Blake Martin of FranNet of the Heartland will address topics related to launching an entrepreneurial career as a franchisee or purchasing an existing business.

• Elizabeth Yearwood, Economic Development Specialist for the Nebraska District of the Small Business Administration will describe the many services the organization offers to entrepreneurs.

• Paul Madsen of growmedia.com and “The Grow Your Biz Show” will moderate the panel and discuss niche marketing for the Solopreneur.

ABOUT the SBA Elizabeth Yearwood, Economic Development Specialist for the Nebraska District of the Small Business Administration will describe the many government services that organization offers to entrepreneurs.

ABOUT GROWMEDIA.COM growmedia.com finds the greatness of small business owners AND their optimum niche markets.

Additionally, it inspires owners and launchers via “The Grow Your Biz Show,” a weekly talk show focused on entrepreneurs.

NDOT Announces Interactive Construction Map for Omaha Metro The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) wants drivers to know there is now an interactive website that allows citizens to understand what projects are taking place in the metro area. Thanks to NDOT’s online Moving the Metro interactive map, citizens can browse by location the various state, city and county construction projects in their area.

The map provides information about the responsible entity, what the project will entail and its scope, contact information for the specific project and provide any links to other websites for the project. Citizens can follow the progress of the various projects as we move through construction season.

NDOT developed the map as a supplement to the Moving the Metro, which is released each spring with an outline of the projects in the metro area. Citizens can find both at https://dot.nebraska.gov/news-media/moving-the-metro/.

Paint-A-Thon is made possible through the support of Barnhart Press, ConAgra Foods, Diamond Vogel Paints, Immanuel Vision Foundation, Lincoln Financial Group, The Lozier Foundation, The Mammel Foundation, The Gavilon Group, US Bank, Northern Natural Gas, Tenaska, and Wells Fargo Bank. Additional companies, businesses and individuals donate materials and provide support to the volunteer teams.

insurance to disaster victims whose homes were destroyed or damaged to such an extent that reconstruction or replacement is necessary and are facing the daunting task of rebuilding or buying another home. Borrowers from participating FHAapproved lenders are eligible for 100 percent financing, including closing costs; • Making insurance available for both mortgages and home rehabilitation – HUD’s Section 203(k) loan program enables those who have lost their homes to finance the purchase or refinance of a house along with its repair through a single mortgage. It also allows homeowners who have damaged houses to finance the rehabilitation of their existing single-family home; and • Making information on housing providers and HUD programs available – The Department will share information with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the State on housing providers that may have available units in the impacted counties. This includes Public Housing Agencies and Multi-Family owners. The Department will also connect FEMA and the State to subject matter experts to provide information on HUD programs and providers.

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After purchasing your subscription on our website: www.theomahastar.com follow the link below to enjoy all that The Omaha Star Newspaper has to offer. https://issuu.com/omahastar Get The Omaha Star on your mobile devices: Available for iOS and Android Devices • Visit either the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store to download the Issuu app Today!

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LIFE & STYLE/HEALTH & WELLNESS April 19, 2019 25th Anniversary ESSENCE Celebrity Podcaster and Divorce Expert Releases Book for Married Couples Festival Brings the ‘90s Heat

Page Eight

THE OMAHA STAR

NEW YORK – (BUSINESS WIRE) – The ESSENCE Festival presented by Coca-Cola, the world’s largest cultural, entertainment and empowerment experience and largest celebration of global Black culture, is set to bring the ‘90s heat with special performances that celebrate the 25th anniversary of some of the top albums of the decade. The festival also just announced the official night-by-night performance line up for its concert series taking place July 5-7 at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans.

With hits that remain timeless, the ‘90s era of R&B and hip-hop music significantly impacted our global culture – setting musical trends and a standard of excellence that made space for artists to thrive as creators, visionaries and entrepreneurs. By spotlighting some of the era’s most forward-looking, gamechanging albums that are also celebrating their 25th anniversaries, the celebration will reach beyond nostalgia to new school – with special performances to elevate the groundbreaking sounds that continue to influence the most popular, chart-topping artists of today.

“We are celebrating our 25th anniversary with an extraordinary, multigenerational, cultural celebration featuring nearly 100 Black artists who know that the ESSENCE Festival is ‘home,’” said Michelle Ebanks, CEO of ESSENCE Communications. “Through an imaginative slate of 25th anniversary curations and a fresh take on our nightby-night line-up, this year’s milestone Festival will creatively represent some of our culture’s most important and influential bodies of work – past, present and future. We are excited to place the spotlight on the music that captivated and inspired our global communities – all reimagined exclusively for the ‘only-

at-ESSENCE’ Festival stages.”

Each “25th” set will be curated and performed by the original artists, including Mary J. Blige’s My Life, Nas’ Illmatic, Brandy’s Brandy, Scarface’s Diary, Big Daddy Kane’s Daddy’s Home, Da Brat’s Funkdafied, Slick Rick’s Behind Bars and Brownstone’s From the Bottom Up. Kicking off Friday night (July 5) are marquee performances from some of music’s biggest acts including Missy Elliott, RBRM (Ronnie, Bobby, Ricky, Mike) and more; opening night will also include a 25th anniversary set presented

by Doug E. Fresh that will feature Brandy, Ledisi and Sheila E., MC Lyte, Morris Day, Former Members of New Power Generation, among others.

Saturday night is anchored by Mary J. Blige, Nas, H.E.R. and more, with 25th anniversary celebrations by some of the most influential names in hip-hop, including Big Daddy Kane, Scarface, Slick Rick and more.

Closing night on Sunday will feature a performance by Maze featuring Frankie Beverly with a special tribute to Frankie Beverly delivered by Anthony Hamilton; Jermaine Dupri’s Atlanta-focused curation with performances by Musiq Soulchild, Da Brat, Lil Jon and Dem Franchize Boyz; Teddy Riley’s Legends of Music curation that includes Pharrell Williams, Timbaland, Teyana Taylor, MAJOR., Ro James and more; as well as a NOLA-style bounce performance with Mannie Fresh and Big Freedia.

Each night will be hosted by Loni Love and will feature music by DJ D-Nice.

You can view the official night-bynight line up at https://www.essence. com/festival. Single night ticket are on sale now.

Charlotte, NC – Jennifer Hurvitz, author of the best-selling self-help book One Happy Divorce: Hold the Bulls#!t, recently released her second book, “woulda. coulda. shoulda.

A Divorce Coach’s Guide to Staying Married,” published

by Charlotte-based Warren Publishing. This March, Oprah Magazine online named the book number five in the list of top eleven Marriage Books to Read with Your Partner for a Healthy Relationship, alongside classic marriage books like The 5 Love Languages and Hold Me Tight.

Well-known for her humor and candor about all things divorce and relationships, Hurvitz is the voice behind the popular Doing Divorce Right podcast (named one of the 5 Best Divorce Podcasts to Get You Through It All in 2018 by women. com, with nearly 15,000 downloads and counting). She is also author of the popular blog, The Truth Hurvitz (10,000 hits monthly). Her new book takes a different approach, instead focusing on married couples who want to stay married.

Sharing personal experiences and laughout-loud insights from her own divorce journey, Hurvitz paints an honest (at times brutally so) picture of what it’s like to be divorced, and tips for how to avoid it.

From the back cover: Imagine there were a “secret recipe” to a successful and everlasting marriage, would you want it? Of course you would! And who better to stir it up than a woman who figured it all out just a bit too late … after she signed her divorce papers. In “woulda. coulda. shoulda.,” Hurvitz offers a no-B.S. look at what the divorce process really looks like for those contemplating a separation or divorce, or those already going through one. Take a deep breath and read as she shares her insight into what the “greener grass” honestly looks like.

“I’m a relationship expert, best-selling author, and a

‘happily’ divorced mom of two healthy, well-adjusted teenaged boys, so I bet you’re wondering why the heck I’d write this book,” laughs Hurvitz. “Well, it’s simple. I messed up! And now it’s my job to stop others from doing the same.”

Hurvitz started her dating and relationship blog, The Truth Hurvitz, after she and her husband separated. The blog became an overnight success, even garnering attention from an LA agency that approached her for a sitcom about her family. (The pilot for the series, written by Hurvitz, went on to win Best Television Episode Screenplay at the Atlanta Comedy Film Festival.) Her bestselling book, One Happy Divorce, soon followed. “After my divorce, I felt lost and alone,” says Hurvitz. “But ironically enough, I always had one person by my side…my EX. I learned that divorced couples actually can be kind to each other, but it takes work. You just have to check your egos at the door and put your kids first.” Next came the podcast and a successful divorce and relationship coaching business, followed by her latest book, which she hopes will “change a few minds and save a few marriages.”

“As a divorce attorney/coach, I know what people go through in a contested divorce,” said Jason Levoy, a.k.a “The Divorce Resource Guy.” “Jennifer went through a divorce and knows what it’s like on the other side. Her advice and insight to getting divorced and living a postdivorce life will help you make the best decisions. [woulda. coulda. shoulda. is] a must-read if you are contemplating divorce.” “woulda. coulda. shoulda.” is available at warrenpublishing. net, amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com, or wherever books are sold. For more information about Hurvitz or her book, visit her website at www.jenniferhurvitz.com.

Subscribe to the Omaha Star 402-346-4041 opt. 5 • theomahastar.com

Calculator Maps Life Expectancy for Nebraskans Based on Zip Code Everyone wants to live longer. Right?

Now there’s a computer program that will tell you how long you potentially will live based on your demographics and how you could prolong your life if you make healthier choices.

Dejun Su, Ph.D., associate professor and director, Center for Reducing Health Disparities, College of Public Health, led a team to develop the Life Expectancy Calculator and Mapping for Nebraskans program in the hopes that it will spur people to lead healthier lifestyles and prolong their lives.

“It’s a longevity estimate, but more importantly, it tells you what you can do to live longer,” Dr. Su said. “For example, the calculator can estimate how many extra years a smoker can potentially live if he or she quits now.”

Ali S. Khan, M.D., M.P.H., dean of the College of Public Health, initiated the idea of developing the life expectancy calculator for Nebraskans.

“The handy little tool is a creative way to serve the health needs of all Nebraskans by reminding us that a large portion of health is a choice. We hope the tool will help people make healthier choices and be outraged enough about the differences in life expectancy to get involved in their communities and champion solutions,” Dr. Khan said.

Dr. Su developed the prototype with the help of a computer science student from the University of Nebraska at Omaha who used this for her capstone project. Atul Rayamajhi, director of information systems in the College of Public Health, provided the needed IT support for this project.

Estimates of life expectancy were based on 10-year population-based mortality data provided by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human

A Peace of Ty Introduction to Ty Nared

By Ty Nared

Dejun Su, Ph.D.

Services. The algorithm predicts a person’s life expectancy based on several factors – age, gender, height, weight, race, home zip code, smoking status, amount of exercise and eating behavior.

Another purpose of the project is to highlight geographic disparities in longevity in Nebraska and mobilize resources and partnerships to address these disparities.

Dr. Su would like to promote healthier living by providing a list of community resources to help residents with various health needs. The Center for Reducing Health Disparities plans to host a community event 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m., April 29 at the Wurdeman Learning Center, 5190 Sprague

Plaza (Omaha Home for Boys), to enlist such agencies.

A mapping tab on the website shows the average life expectancy of Nebraskans by zip code. The average life expectancy in the U.S. is 76 years for men and 81 years for women. In Nebraska, depending on where you live, estimated life expectancy can range from 72 years to 90 years.

“I want to increase public awareness of regional disparities in Nebraska and help direct resources and interventions to vulnerable, underserved communities where they are most needed to achieve better health equity,” Dr. Su said.

I am a native of Nebraska living a fulfilled life with my life-partner, my husband Radell and our little dog Theo. My hobbies are comprised of blogging, shopping, cooking, yoga, and experimenting with fashion. Random fact, I consider myself a guru or master of bringing home amazing deals.

I have of Bachelor of Science in Journalism from Creighton University, which is what inspired me to write. I’m excited to be a new writer for the Omaha Star, especially since I was a Mildred D. Brown Memorial Study Center scholar. With this column, my mission is to bring awareness to mental health issues that affect our communities and be a resource of refuge to those who are affected.

It is my determination to stimulate the minds of others by inspiring and encouraging them to live happily because happiness is within reach. To me, life is about maximizing the opportunities that present themselves in each new day we embrace.

Please look for my first column in the May 3 issue.

Something to Talk About Don’t Worry, Be Happy

By Ashley Marie Dantzler

SAVE THE DATE Omaha’s Together To End Stroke™ Walk

Saturday, June 1 | 9 a.m.

Walk starts at Fontenelle Park Pavilion Community rally to follow at Adams Park Community Center

Registration opens soon!

THANKS FOR SUPPORTING THE WALK!

Omaha Parks & Recreation Omaha Police Department â ck{nVTUr `NnVJAa NAnr oocJVArVca aJ A ¨J©¨ © acr®Scn®knc r ^^ nVTUro nNoNnxNL 3cTNrUNn rc aL 1rnc]N Vo A nNTVorNnNL rnALN`An] cS rUN 4aAsrUcnV~NL soN kncUVIVrNL

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Religious or not, we all believe that we were not created to worry. Whether your beliefs lead you to understand that God made you to worship Him, or if you lean more towards your own strengths and judgments to give you a happy life; we all must realize that worrying is not our purpose. And when we realize that, we can truly live.

Worrying leads to more worrying and essentially into a miserable life. We sleep less, we eat more, and then by consequence our bodies can give into chronic pain. But with all the trials in our lives, problems with relationships, finances, and even our inner struggles, where do we find time not to worry? It is the uncertainty of life that makes us worrisome beings. The truth about uncertainty is that we will always have it. It will always be with us, because

we are incapable of seeing our futures.

We must live in the moment; seizing the day, because today is all we have. You had yesterday, and if you made the wakeup list, you have today. But today can slip right through your fingers if you are worried about tomorrow; a day I might remind you, that you are not promised.

Just by observing nature, it is evident that we worry more than other creatures on earth, if they worry at all. Animals do as they know to do in the environment they were given. They build nests, raise their young, and then move on. We toil over where we will sleep, what we will eat, and what we will wear. These things are trivial compared to the moment we see our child’s face for the first time, or the diploma we worked so hard for finally lands us our dream job, even the moment when we see our older loved ones struggling to remember the simple things, and then we recall how much their love really meant to us. These things are what we are supposed

to cherish, these are the things we were given to enjoy.

The Bible says to cast all your cares upon the Lord, for he cares for you. And whether you believe that or not, you know that carrying the burden of worry is heavy and that the pain must be alleviated somehow.

Breathing techniques can help you focus and settle into the here and now. Another coping skill I have used in the past is writing down my worries descriptively onto a piece of paper and then taking that same paper and tearing it up into little pieces. I then throw it into the garbage. It is my symbolic way of getting rid of my worries.

Will we all worry at some time in our lives? Unfortunately, yes, but we have the opportunity every day to cherish the moments that make us happy and to leave our worries behind. You were not created to live a life full of worry over uncertainty.

You were created to do much bigger things.

EVENTS/CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING THE OMAHA STAR Page Nine Omaha Girls Rock Announces Benefit Concert Omaha Girls Rock, a nonprofit organization Contemporary Art and a collection of assorted Things to do, people to see, places to go. dedicated to youth empowerment through music zines from Zinefest, a tattoo gift certificate from April 19, 2019

In The Village!

education, performance and creativity, will hold an all-ages spring benefit concert, We’re the Girls of Omaha.

The event, produced by the Omaha Girls Rock Advocacy Board, will take place on May 11 at O’Leaver’s, 1322 Saddle Creek Road. A variety of women-led musical acts will perform from 2-8 p.m. in the outdoor area at O’Leaver’s. The benefit is family-friendly and there is a minimal suggested donation upon entry.

Local radio personality, spoken word artist and motivational speaker Felicia Webster will emcee the event, which will feature performances by Flora and Grace, Virginia Kathryn, Cat Beret, Bathtub Maria, Annie Dilocker, Enjoli & Timeless, and Jocelyn. Liz Webb will run sound.

Raffle tickets will be sold and Webster will draw and announce winners at the event. Raffle items will include a flying V guitar hand-painted

by Carrie Ann Buchanan of Keep Calm Custom Guitars, a one-year membership to the Union for

Liquid Courage, an Omaha Girls Rock merch package, and a Glam Master Class for up to five people with KJ Beauty, beauty products and tools, and a manicure/pedicure gift certificate from SarahKat Designs.

“Omaha Girls Rock’s Advocacy Committee is hosting their first annual spring benefit, We’re the Girls of Omaha, which will showcase performances from youth participants in our summer program alongside local femme musicians,” says Melissa Wurth, Executive Director at Omaha Girls Rock.

“Our Advocacy Board, volunteers and community leaders, have put together a great, family-friendly event and we look forward to celebrating with past and prospective campers, their families, OGR volunteers and anyone from the community who wants to hear some talented local musicians and help support OGR’s mission.”

Visit the We’re the Girls of Omaha Facebook page for more information or to RSVP.

Audition Notice: ‘Sweat’ The Omaha Community Playhouse (OCP) is holding auditions for the upcoming production of “Sweat” on May 2 at 7 p.m. and May 4 at 1 p.m. at OCP. Through upholding high ethical standards, demonstrating respect for all and consciously working to provide diverse representation, OCP is committed to creating an inclusive and safe environment in which all community members feel a sense of belonging, and does not discriminate in casting practices on the basis of an individual’s ethnicity, age, gender, physical and cognitive ability, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, country of origin or other factors. Omaha Community Playhouse is committed to diverse and inclusive casting.

Production: “Sweat” Written By: Lynn Nottage Director: Susie Baer Collins Show Dates: Aug. 16 - Sept. 15 Omaha Community Playhouse, Howard Drew Theatre Rehearsals: Begin mid-June Description: Winner of the 2017 Pulitzer Prize, “Sweat” is a head-first dive into working class America. A three- time Tony Award nominee, “Sweat” follows a group of steelworkers whose steady march toward the American dream is uprooted by economic change. As their sense of security slowly unravels, jobs and relationships are left in the wake. Punctuated with lively humor, “Sweat” goes to the heart of what it means to be human – both good and bad – when fear and uncertainty take hold.

Disclaimer: Contains adult language and violence.

Auditions: May 2 at 7 p.m.; May 4 at 1 p.m.

Location: Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass St. Those auditioning should enter through the west “Stage Door” entrance and proceed to the checkin table downstairs.

Notes: Those auditioning will be asked to read from the script provided at auditions.

Please Bring: All contact information, personal schedules and a list of rehearsal conflicts with which to fill out an audition form. To expedite the check-in process, please bring a recent photo if you have one available. Please note, photos will not be returned.

Roles: Evan: African American, 40s Jason: White American of German descent, 21 to 29 Chris: African American, 21 to 29 Stan: White American of German descent, 50s Oscar: Colombian American, 22 to 30 Tracey: White American of German descent, 45 to 53 Cynthia: African American, 45 to 53 Jessie: Italian American, 40s Brucie: African American, 40s

April 19 – Steve Hogan golf course at Miller Park is open for the 2019 season. Hours are 8 a.m. till dusk.

April 19 – Registration is open for KANEKO Summer Kids Camp! Students will engage with local professionals to learn about the principles and processes of design, creativity, and much more. Each 4-day camp provides a group of 16 students a variety of exciting exercises and activities. Camps are for children entering grades 7-9. Each camp includes materials, lunches, a camp T-shirt and a notebook. Camps run Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Scholarships are available! Scholarships are available. Register at: www.thekaneko.org/ programs April 20 – Ladies of the Beauty Box will host their Women’s Brunch Part 2 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Beardmore Event Center, 3750 Raynor Pkwy, Bellevue. Join them for a conversation on self-care and community featuring Hope Valentine, Licensed Mental Health Therapist, and Dr. Tamara Fuller-Eddins, OB/GYN. Visit Eventbrite for tickets.

April 21 – Pilgrim Baptist Church & Perknitup Productions present Sunday (Re)Fresh at 6 p.m. at Northwest High School, 8204 Crown Point Ave. Doors open at 5:30. This is a citywide dance explosion. Guests include Chad Stoner, Dr. Leroy E. Adams, Ananias Montague & Friends, Jarron Taylor & CBN, Shanketta Newsome, Pastor Jon Lucas and Kenneth Owens and special guest, Rhonda Jones. A minimal donation will be accepted at the door.

April 22 – OPS invites the community to attend the upcoming open community meetings regarding proposed changes to South Omaha elementary and middle school attendance boundaries and the high school attendance boundaries. The dates, times and places of the meetings are listed in an article on the Youth/ Education page of this issue.

April 23 – The Parkinson’s Foundation Heartland in collaboration with CHI Health Immanuel will host “Women and Parkinson’s Disease” from 5-7 p.m., at CHI Health Immanuel Conference Center, 6901 N. 72nd St. This program will focus on empowering women with PD through education, self-advocacy and emotional wellness strategies. Women with Parkinson’s, caregivers, family and friends should register at Parkinson.org/WomenNE. There is no cost to attend, but registration is required.

April 23 – Juvenile Justice Reform Community Conversations Continued… will be held from 6-8:30 p.m. at Clair Memorial UMC, 5544 Ames Ave. Learn about MAYS, ReConnect and YouTurn youth organizations.

The event is open to the community. System involved youth and their families are encouraged

Business Connection

Contact: For more information, contact Tiffany Nigro, tnigro@omahaplayhouse.com, at (402) 553-4890, ext. 110.

The Douglas County Housing Authority (DCHA) will take appointments to process applications for eligibility for the HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHER (SECTION 8) waiting list by PHONE ONLY on Friday, May 10, 2019.

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, May 10, 2019, please call (402) 238-1898 to schedule an appointment. Appointments for applications are made by this telephone number ONLY. After five hundred (500) appointments are scheduled, the waiting list will close and no further calls will be accepted. At the time of their appointment, applicants must be 18 years of age or older, meet other standards for eligibility, and provide documentation as requested. All household members who are 18 years or older must be able to pass a Douglas County Housing Authority background check and other standards for eligibility.

Applicants who are deemed eligible will be placed on the waiting list in accordance with the DCHA’s Administrative policies. Applicants on wait list for other housing programs must apply separately for this program. Applicants will not lose their place on other waiting lists.

If you are disabled and require a reasonable accommodation to apply, please contact DCHA at 402-444-6203 for a Reasonable Accommodation Form.

This form for a reasonable accommodation must be completed and returned to the DCHA office by May 10, 2019, and may only be completed by a Doctor or Licensed Professional.

to attend. For more info, phone 402-451-8322.

April 23 – Beth Roxland, J.D., M.Bioethics, will discuss the bioethics of cutting-edge medical and scientific endeavors at the Omaha Science Café. She will present “Do We Have the Right to Try? The Movement, the Law and the Societal Impact,” at 7 p.m. at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St. Pizza will be provided for the first 50 people.

For more info about Science Cafes, go to www. unmc.edu/sciencecafe.

April 26 – The OPS Caring and Concerned Educators organization will hold its annual “Elementary Excellence Awards” program at 5:30 p.m. in the TAC auditorium. The program aims to recognize and honor students who are making great academic strides in spite of tremendous odds. Each elementary school nominates two students to be honored during the event.

April 26 – Bryan High School (4700 Giles Road) will host its 2nd Annual Art Show and silent auction from 4-7 p.m. to benefit Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium’s conservation efforts. Last year, proceeds of the show helped the zoo send a polar bear to the Kansas City Zoo. Also on hand for the event will be Coneflower Creamery and a couple of other food trucks. This event is open to the community.

April 27 – American Red Cross and Sound the Alarm Save a Life will visit neighborhoods from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. to install free smoke alarms. More lives are lost every year to home fires than to all major disasters. Phone 211 for an appointment. Learn more at redcross.org/ homefires.

May 3 – Clair Memorial UMC, 5544 Ames Ave, will host First Friday Fish Fry from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. For a minimal donation, the menu includes fried catfish, a choice of 2 sides – oriental cole slaw, spaghetti, green beans, a soft drink or bottled water.

Delivery is available on 3 or more orders. Phone the church office at 402-451-8322 to place orders.

May 3 – Benson High Magnet (5120 Maple St.) will hold a dedication ceremony for its new “Faces of Benson” mural at 5:30 p.m. in the commons area. The ceremony will honor the alumni and students featured in the mural and pay tribute to artist Reggie LeFlore. The event is open to the community.

May 4 – Bryant-Fisher family’s Dozens of Cousins will serve up whole fried catfish, spaghetti, coleslaw, green beans and dessert (for a minimal charge) from noon - 4 p.m. at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, 6201 N. 60th St. Use the rear entrance on the north side of the building.

May 11 – AARP will host a free document shredding from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. at The Center Mall, 42nd & Center.

To advertise your business, please contact Phyllis Hicks.

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

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YOUTH/EDUCATION NEWS

Page Ten THE OMAHA STAR

Youth Violence Prevention Program Grows

Adolescents come to the emergency room each year with gunshot wounds, stab wounds or assault injuries. A team of health professionals rallies to save their lives. But some of the injuries are too severe.

Telling parents that their child has died Evans weighs on health professionals. A group of health professionals at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and its clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine, took action two years ago to prevent violent injuries by launching a program called Dusk to Dawn (D2D) that involves community partners.

Called D2D, the program has served close to 400 youth age 12 to 18 since its inception in April 2017, said Charity Evans, M.D., associate professor of surgery at UNMC and trauma surgeon at Nebraska Medicine, who heads the program.

You Turn, Boys and Girls Club of the Midlands and Omaha Police Department are the medical center’s partners.

“Our referral network has grown dramatically,” Dr. Evans said. “We’re starting to see kids from community-based organizations like Girls Inc., the Hope Center, Latino Center of the Midlands, the Nebraska Family Helpline, as well as referrals from parents themselves, and the juvenile justice services in Douglas County.”

D2D expanded and now Douglas County Youth Corrections hosts the program in-house. “That was a big step. Though the young people may not be there on violent charges, the fact that they’re incarcerated is a risk factor,” Dr. Evans said.

Dusk to Dawn has grown into something the team couldn’t have imagined.

“It really has been quite successful. It speaks to the need in the community,” Dr. Evans said.

We found that the kids really wanted to talk more about emotions and the use of emotions in conflict

resolution.”

A new program funded by the Omaha Mayor’s Office and the Robert Woods Johnson Foundation – Strengthening Families Program 10-14 – recently started. It brings together Omaha families once a week for seven weeks. The idea is for parents and youths to learn and build parenting and life skills.

Another program that should be up and running in the next year is a hospital-based violence intervention program for patients admitted with a violent injury. With this program, victims of violence would be linked to community-based programs in conjunction with outpatient case management.

Currently, it’s difficult to know if their work is preventing violence, Dr. Evans said.

She recently wrote an abstract on the program that explored how violence is learned and the role family, friends and the community play in shaping youth attitude toward violence. Pre- and postprogram surveys from youths helped identify what are risk factors and what high-risk situations exist in their lives. It helps youths better understand their own risk factors, she said.

“But what I can tell you is that in the twoand-a-half hours that we’re with them, we do see a shift in their attitudes toward violence and the use of violence. Close to 83 percent of the D2D participants agree or strongly agree that the program helped them better understand, and 83 percent also would recommend D2D to other kids their age.”

When asked what youths want next, up to 50 percent said they would want to meet and talk again.

“This indicates that additional programming is crucial in decreasing youth violence,” Dr. Evans said. “It’s going to take time and we want to continue to help that process. We’re trying to have conversations in hopes of preventing of what we see here in the trauma bay.”

The D2D team now is in early discussions to create a second phase of the program and bring youth back for additional conversation and education.

Online College Credit Option Metropolitan Community College has announced its new Kickstart Online Institute, a list of 15-week online college courses for high school students looking to get a start on college credits. The Kickstart Online Institute will offer introductory college courses in English, History, Finance and Geography. Similar to other dual credit options from MCC, the online college-level courses are half-price plus fees and useable at MCC or transferrable to other postsecondary institutions.

“If students are ready for college, they can begin their pathway towards a degree while still in

high school with accessible online courses,” said Charles Chevalier, Ed.D. associate vice president of Secondary Partnerships. “Students can earn credits in general education courses now, so they can get to courses earlier in their career area once they’re attending MCC or a university.”

The first semester of Kickstart Online Institute classes begins Aug. 26. Registration is now open with a deadline of Aug. 19. Second semester begins Jan. 13. For more information or to register, visit mccneb.edu/KSOI or email secondarypartnerships@mccneb.edu.

April 19, 2019

AKA Omaha Graduate Chapter Announces 2019 Scholarship Recipients The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. Omaha Graduate Chapter has announced the selection of eight recipients of 2019 Academic Scholarships. The Alpha Kappa Alpha Scholarship provides recipients with funding to pursue academic goals. Scholarship recipients were honored at the 2019 Scholarship Luncheon on April 13 at Champions Run.

Anita Johnson (mother of Courtni Johnson); Amya Harris-Harper; Mia Bonam; Sheila Fields, 2019 Scholarship Chair; luncheon speaker Lieutenant Sherie Thomas; President, AKA Omaha Graduate Chapter Shereece Dendy-Sanders; Amya Gilmore; Kaelynn Caldwell; DaNya Horne; Ayesha Station (mother of Mya Carter); Terri Jackson-Miller (grandmother of Brianna Miller). Not pictured: Courtni Johnson, Mya Carter and Brianna Miller.

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OMAHA’S

CITY NATURE

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LOCATIONS: Omaha STEM Ecosystem/Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo &

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Additional financial support was provided by the Arnhold Family in memory of Clarisse Arnhold, Sue and Edgar Wachenheim III, the Kate W. Cassidy Foundation, the Lillian Goldman Charitable Trust, Kathy Chiao and Ken Hao, the Anderson Family Fund, the Filomen M. D’Agostino Foundation, Rosalind P. Walter, the Halmi Family in memory of Robert Halmi, Sr., Sandra Atlas Bass, Doris R. and Robert J. Thomas, Charles Rosenblum, by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, and by the nation’s public television stations.

liberate

noiseomaha.com Follow @NOISEOMAHA

NORTH OMAHA INFORMATION SUPPORT EVERYONE In this edition of NOISE we celebrate one year since the launch of NORTH OMAHA INFORMATION SUPPORT EVERYONE and explore the concept of LIBERATE and how liberties can be limited by law, nature, history and even, ourselves.

One Year of NOISE Director Hemp in the Heartland Dawaune Lamont Hayes Crime & Cannabis Doug Patterson On Troubled Waters Dawaune Lamont Hayes Solitary Confinement Luis E. Jimenez & Paul Feilmann A Lost Alternative Luis E. Jimenez Almighty Dollar Ashley Salem Director: Dawaune Lamont Hayes Co-Director: Paul Allen IV Civic Contributor: Luis E. Jimenez Executive Editor: Christine Fink Audio Engineer: Mark McGaugh Contributors: Doug Patterson, Paul Feilmann, Ashley Salem

Listen to your Heart.

It often knows what you most deeply desire.

When w e

choose t and lis o listen, w you e ind rem c can t it a e n recei n close Not only that, but ve the ly of es tim in a en wh n are s you w of who e r s LIBERA to TE us f darkness. rom th e confi nes of o u r m What is on your Heart? What fills it up? inds.

What is your purpose today?

FOURTH EDITION NORTH APRIL 2019 OMAHA INFORMATION LIBERATE noiseomaha.com SUPPORT EVERYONE Follow @NOISEOMAHA

NOISE, shorthand for North Omaha Information Support Everyone, is a community-led news project committed to strengthening information creation and distribution in North Omaha. With help from The Omaha Star, 101.3 FM Mind & Soul, Internews, and The Listening Post; NOISE is here to make a difference by connecting people to news they can use by people they can trust. Full versions of all stories seen here are available at noiseomaha.com

ONE YEAR OF MAKING NOISE

Our world is changing rapidly everyday and it is important that we have storytellers to capture and share the many ways we can affect, and are affected by, change.

Since the launch of NOISE in April 2018 we have been committed to attending and documenting public meetings, connecting with residents, and developing creative ways to communicate with the North Omaha community. We have created a weekly radio broadcast on Mind & Soul Radio 101.3FM, released multiple print editions with The Omaha Star, and are gaining a strong following online.

Moving into our next year we want to continue to engage with you! Follow us on noiseomaha.com or on social media at @noiseomaha. Tell us a story, share what motivates you, and describe what you are passionate about so that we can craft the story of our community, together. “Everyone is a storyteller because everyone has a story to tell.”

– Director, Dawaune Lamont Hayes

We asked community members this question and here is what they said.

Living as one chooses while respecting the rights of others to do the same.

When all barriers to self-actualization and well-being have been lifted.

Both the internal and external ones.

Liberation to me is the freedom to exist in a space as one chooses and to have ease of access to the things we need to survive.

I’d say...forgetting about the past and only worrying about the things that are presently in my sphere of control.

Being able to think and do what you want, regardless of what others expect from you.

I think of liberation as the result of collective action against all systems of exploitation and oppression.

It means making it.

Building each other up.

It would look like a drastically different thing than the way we live here in America. It would take folks looking out for each others interests as much as their own, and corporations and government would serve the needs of the people.

What do you think? Submit your response on social media @NOISEomaha

Page B2

LOCAL NEWS

THE OMAHA STAR

HEMP IN THE HEARTLAND

BY DAWAUNE LAMONT HAYES

Hemp is the future, according to North Omaha Senator Justin Wayne.

His bill LB 657, the Nebraska Hemp Farming Act, would align state laws with the federal 2018 Farm Bill that From L to R: Precious McKesson (Aid), legalized the Senator Justin Wayne cultivation, harvesting, handling, marketing and processing of hemp, the non-psychoactive form of cannabis.

“We’re looking to decriminalize it and we’re looking to create a regulatory system that meets the 2018 Farm Act and we’re looking to hopefully do seeds this year, if I can get this moving fast enough, and next year have full blown hemp going. And see now, if we start planting then we get to go out and start recruiting the manufacturers,” said Wayne.

Wayne explained that hemp, which is estimated to be a billion dollar industry, is not only a money making crop for farmers, but also an opportunity for new good paying jobs in rural and urban areas where older industries have died. “If we were to have a massive hemp production in Nebraska, we can create a massive amount of jobs in and around I-80 corridor including Omaha,” said the senator.

The price of Nebraska’s largest crops, corn and soy, have plummeted over the last two decades and tariffs placed on China by the Trump administration in 2018 have left farmers stuck with excess crop sitting in grain silos. Many others lost plants and livestock during the treacherous floods in March.

Wayne is supporting another option,“Corn and soybeans are hurting right now from a price standpoint so the people are looking for an alternative crop.”

“Farmers have been losing 50 cents or more per bushel of corn over the last 3 years,” said farmer Bill Hawkins, founder of the Nebraska Hemp Company (NHC). Hawkins has been advocating

April 19, 2019

“If we were to have a massive hemp production in Nebraska, we can create a massive amount of jobs in and around I-80 corridor including Omaha.”

- Senator Justin Wayne for industrial hemp legalization since 2014 after the federal Farm Bill of that year allowed states to conduct hemp research. NHC is an education and research non-profit focused on the applications of hemp in Nebraska.

An organic farmer for 40 years and herbalist, Hawkins sees hemp as a way to boost Nebraska’s economy and generate opportunity for people suffering land and job loss. “This plant will allow cottage industries to develop, creating sustainable markets for rural communities,” said Hawkins. He described textiles for clothing and the the growing cannabidiol (CBD) industry as major players for local markets. Quotes for CBD market growth by 2022 see anywhere from $646 million, according to Hemp Business Journal, to a whopping $22 billion per the Brightfield Group.

An amendment to remove industrial hemp, and its derivatives including CBD, from a list of controlled substances has been added to LB 657 which would make the sale of CBD completely legal in the state. According to a 2018 memo from Attorney General Doug Peterson, “any product containing cannabidiol, obtained by any means other than the authorized UNMC study, remains illegal to possess, manufacture, distribute, dispense,” despite many local shops already carrying and advertising the acclaimed health benefits of the compound. An emergency clause in the bill would immediately legalize CBD once signed by the governor.

When asked if hemp could help people impacted by the flood Hawkins relented, “That’s something that Senator [Lynne] Walz in Fremont, [and] I’ve had some discussions with her office. Hemp has an ability to [act] as a soil remediator which means it can pull toxic chemicals, heavy metals, and stuff out of the soil,” he said and later suggested that the plant could be used as a cover crop in areas with possible contamination from flood waters.

After years of educating senators through NHC, Hawkins says he thinks the bill has a majority of support from the legislature,“I do not think there’s gonna be any opposition, I just don’t think so, we’ll see here,” he said.

Statements from Governor Pete Ricketts to KGFW radio in Kearney suggest the executive branch is willing to work with Senator Wayne on passing the bill. “We’re working on the

regulatory structure right now so stay tuned because I would expect Senator Wayne’s bill to be successful this year,” Ricketts said in February.

Hawkins feels the pace at which the bill has moved has put a major delay on Nebraska farmers hoping to get a crop in the 2019 planting season, as wild hemp and other plants are already germinating. “It’s 8 weeks since it should have been out of committee. We could have already passed it in February and they could be done with rules and regulations right now and we could be into planting season,” he said.

Ultimately for Hawkins he believes that the Nebraska Hemp Farming Act could be a catalyst for economic growth and sustainability for the state and its residents.

“We’re struggling with farmers going into bankruptcy at an increasing rate and this hemp crop is the chance to save the family farm,” said Hawkins.

As for Wayne, the passing of LB 657 would mean Nebraska embracing its history for the better, “Now we can actually be the hemp of the world... in World World II, they actually required farmers, or begged farmers to start growing hemp again and Nebraska had more hemp per acre than any other state in the country, he said, “This is an opportunity for Nebraska to change a lot of things.”

Hawkins lauded Wayne’s involvement, “That’s the thing I would really like to emphasize is just how hard Senator Wayne has worked on this and hoping to stimulate some of his constituents in district with this industry. I really appreciate what he’s done and struggled over the last three years on this.”

Floor debate for the Nebraska Hemp Farming Act is expected the week of April 20. The weekend prior to floor debate for the bill, flyers were given out during a Husker practice game from an organization called Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM) Nebraska that shared antihemp legalization statements and recommended constituents tell their senators to vote “NO” on LB 657.

It is to be determined whether the messaging will have an impact on the bill.

Follow noiseomaha.com for updates.

CRIME & CANNABIS EDITORIAL BY DOUG PATTERSON

As reporter Josh Jardine provokes: “It could be seriously argued that Black New Orleans musicians invented jazz with the help of cannabis.” That observation is even more provocative when we understand that weed didn’t start in the U.S., or in the Caribbean, or in Africa, but in the subcontinent of Asia. Many many centuries ago, perhaps as early as 2500 BCE. From there it travelled to Africa by way of Egypt and Ethiopia and as the “new world” was colonized, the Portuguese used cannabis in Brazil to pacify their enslaved African workforce.

The British, not to be excluded from the list of historical war criminals, brought it to Jamaica, also to subdue their “indentured servants” (read enslaved peoples). Once it got to Jamaica, it was a short jump to New Orleans via trade routes.

But a funny thing happened on the way to the head shop: “Harry Anslinger, the father of cannabis prohibition, took office in 1930 as our country’s first commissioner of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics, an office he held until 1962.

Anslinger managed to turn a nation against weed by turning it against itself through racist, alarmist rhetoric. . . thanks to Anslinger spewing forth nonsense like ‘this was a drug black men used to seduce white women’ that ‘promotes interracial mixing, interracial relationships,’” wrote Professor Dr. Barney Warf at University of Kansas.

The legacy of cannabis has inspired the arts and creative culture but its history has always been steeped in the subjugation of Black and Brown people.

The legacy of cannabis has inspired the arts and creative culture but its history has always been steeped in the subjugation of Black and Brown people.

Illustration courtesy of Wellcome Collection

LOCAL NEWS

April 19, 2019

THE OMAHA STAR

Page B3

ON TROUBLED WATERS

BY DAWAUNE LAMONT HAYES

“In the beginning, the people were in water.” – The Omaha Origin story

Buffalo once roamed the land and drank from the Missouri River, as did the people who would receive their name from the water’s flow. “Omaha” is an English interpretation of Umoⁿhoⁿ, both the tribe and its language, meaning “the people who go against the current” and has been recorded by historians for more than 450 years. The Omaha people would move against the river and follow the rushing force to find fertile land and cleansing water.

where 65 million gallons of untreated wastewater is being dumped directly into the Missouri.

Reports indicate April 20 as the target date for primary treatment which would remove a majority of the solids from the wastewater.

Disinfection of the sewage could be in place by May 1. The timeline is contingent upon various activities planned during the next several weeks according to Public Works.

These possible changes compounded by current conditions would not bode well for the nation’s drinking water, according to the Natural Resources Defense Council.

The City of Omaha’s Master Plan has a specific section of the “Environmental Element” that outlines the ideal relationship between the city and its water supply.

“...Addressing water demand improves the In 1850, William Brown, a white ferryman, efficiency of city and water utility operations; helped settlers cross the Missouri from Until repairs are completed, raw sewage water conservation reduces energy needed Kainesville, now Council Bluffs. and costs for treating water, moving Members of his ferry company and water and wastewater around, and, to MUD outlines on their website possible contaminants that land promoters from Iowa surveyed a lesser extent, treating wastewater. may be present in source water: the area in 1854 and created a map Water conservation strategies in homes, with 322 city blocks they named businesses, civic places, as well as in • Microbial contaminants, such as viruses and bacteria, Omaha City. landscaped areas and parks, will also which may come from sewage treatment plants, septic save money for residents, businesses, and systems, agricultural livestock operations and wildlife.

Brown and a few wealthy couples government and other public agencies.” paid to have trees cleared along the • Inorganic contaminants, such as salts and metals, which riverbank and plotted the first houses. can be naturally occurring or result from urban stormwater The city’s environmental element The native people were driven away, describes why efficient water management runoff, industrial or domestic wastewater discharges, oil and yet their name was taken to mark is important to the health of the city, yet gas production, mining or farming. the land on which they once lived. some of the most prominent discussions The river is what brought people to about the Missouri River usually involve • Pesticides and herbicides, which may come from a variety this place, and its water remains an how much money and concrete can go of sources such as agriculture, urban stormwater runoff and integral part of our day-to-day. along the banks to further economic residential uses. development. Since the recent flooding, “The river is personal for me, it’s a discussion around the impact of water • Organic chemical contaminants, including synthetic and real sacred thing, it’s a live thing, it’s volatile organic chemicals, which are by-products of industrial quality has increased, especially after the living you know,” said Charles Baxter processes and petroleum production, and also can come from wells in towns like Niobrara, Nebraska of the Omaha Nation. The tribe owns were compromised. gas stations, urban stormwater runoff and septic systems.

17 miles of land north on the east and west sides of the Missouri near • Radioactive contaminants, which can be naturally occurring The Papio-Missouri Natural Resource their reservation in Macy, Nebraska.

District has a water stewardship process or be the result of oil and gas production and mining called an “integrated management plan” activities.

“Water is life and I truly, truly believe (IMP) that outlines goals and objectives to that. Our Omaha people back in help preserve and educate people about history used to say ‘The answers are on the will pollute the river and treatment is the the conditions of watersheds within Nebraska. hills.’ You can go on the hills here and you go up responsibility of cities downstream, including But because the Missouri River borders the there and you sacrifice; you fast four days and Kansas City, Missouri. We spoke to Mike state, it is recognized as a U.S. waterway, four nights. I had the opportunity to do that and Klender plant manager at KC Water to see if and is under jurisdiction of the Army Corps I am really, really aware of how important water his team has seen any issues with the excess of Engineers and the EPA. Although there is is in our lives - in our daily lives,” he said. sewage. He said the plant get updates from federal oversight, cities like Omaha could be the EPA and local treatment centers about more deliberately involved.

As the city of Omaha continues to grow, the need increased dumping.

Papillion Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant is to access clean drinking water will increase. With approximately 200 miles north of Kansas City the majority of the city’s municipal water supply “We are aware of the conditions of the coming from the Missouri, how we treat our Missouri and we are aware of the other water source deeply affects the service area and wastewater treatment plants that are other municipalities. discharging sewage based on notice. We haven’t seen anything that has caused to change how we treat our water at WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU us this time,” said Klender.

PULLED WATER DIRECTLY FROM THE RIVER TO DRINK? Water must be chemically treated before consuming; it is unsafe otherwise. A Metropolitan Utility District (MUD) drinking water treatment plant sits north of Florence, adjacent to the Missouri River and the coalpowered Omaha Public Power District Plant.

Exhaust from power production is expelled into the air and when it rains, water washes the coal ash, and other chemicals, into the river.

MUD draws water from the river about a mile upstream. No matter if the intake is upstream or downstream, pollutants are being released into the river.

He explained,“Usually 65 million gallons is going to be deluded fairly quickly, but when we get notified the lab pulls extra samples. Our system is set to handle most conditions. Bacteriologically, for a flood condition, there isn’t anything really abnormal,” said Klender, “We are greatly appreciative of the work [other treatment plants] do upstream to keep our source water clean.”

Urbanist Richard Rogers outlines in his book, “Cities for a Small Planet”, one way of cleaning water while also conserving it: Waste could be reduced and produce energy by composting organic matter to generate methane In Omaha, there have been few explicit fuel pellets and fertilizers. The gray discussions of clear policy that would seek water could be used to water urban prevention and provide remediation from landscaping. His recommendation would upstream hazards. The Environmental Protection reduce pollution of drinking water from excess Agency (EPA) recommends creating “local water “waste” while also improving the environment. protection plans” to educate people about drinking water. “Public education can increase “It’s kind of tragic what’s happening to [the awareness of threats to drinking water sources, river] in this day and time, but we can always encourage voluntary source water protection, say ‘we could blame those folks up North,’ and build support for local initiatives,” says the because it’s flowing [down] but I think we EPA. could probably really be doing something as a [people] in regards to EPA issues and things On their website, the City of Omaha Public Works like that and try to clean up the river,” said department describes the wastewater treatment Baxter. process. Human waste is mixed with stormwater that convenes at local wastewater treatment One of the EPA issues would be the removal plants. Most large material is captured, filtered of regulations protecting U.S. waterways, out, and sent to the landfill. This means content especially those known as “ephemeral” or co-mingled with our water is reintroduced into seasonal. New recommendations from the our environment via landfill while the remaining Trump administration would strip seasonal water is treated with chemical combinations waterways from federal protections which before it is released into the river. could lead to further pollution across the country.

Major floods in March damaged the Papillion Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant in Bellevue,

Missouri River Basin Education Network described the importance of attentive citizens,“Many issues face the people of this region as we try to grapple with how to be better stewards of the river. Understanding the Missouri River and its basin lies at the heart of responsible stewardship. Education is the first and most urgent step in approaching that challenge.”

“It’s tragic what is happening today, like I said, but I sure wish and hope that in the future, things change,” said Baxter.

Interested in testing water in and around Omaha for excess nutrients? Civil Engineering at UNL; Environmental, Agricultural and Occupational Health at UNMC and GC Resolve are looking for citizen water testers. Learn more at bit.ly/CitizenWaterTester

Page B4

LOCAL NEWS

THE OMAHA STAR

April 19, 2019

SOLITARY CONFINEMENT FOREWARD BY LUIS E. JIMENEZ PULSE BY PAUL FEILMANN

Concerned citizen, Paul Feilmann of Omaha is on a mission. He is looking to inspire a broader public discussion about solitary confinement in Nebraska, and he has prepared months of research while communicating with experts. When he volunteertaught English to kindergarteners in South Omaha, their teacher and Fielmann observed an occurrence of poverty among students who had a family member that was incarcerated.

Feilmann said he could not watch from the sidelines while our prison system deteriorates and harms families. Imprisonment takes a toll on everyone, especially those behind bars, and the financial cost of the Department of Correctional Services alone is $276 million. This is money from Nebraska taxpayers to maintain a prison system championed by the governor and funded through the Nebraska legislature.

Feilmann recently told us, “Twenty-five years ago, when Senator John Lindsay was in the judiciary committee, the capacity was 157%. So there is this chronic lack of resources provided for rehabilitation of people that are incarcerated. If you don’t provide rehabilitation and resources for people to make changes in their lives, they continue to make bad decisions and continue to be reincarcerated, and it affects the entire community, family, their children, their children’s children. It’s a cycle that gets started. The risk of family members of an incarcerated individual going to prison themselves, is very high,” he said.

Feilmann explained the connection between poverty and prison, “It feeds itself because when someone

“If you don’t provide rehabilitation and resources for people to make changes in their lives, they continue to make bad decisions and continue to be reincarcerated, and it affects the entire community, family, their children, their children’s children.” – Paul Feilmann gets incarcerated, family members are then pushed closer to poverty or forced to stay in poverty because the parent figure is not able to provide for the family. When they get out of prison, there’s no reentry services—very limited reentry services.” Statistics show that the state’s prison population is now about 5,500, placing the correctional system at 163% overcapacity. Amid safety concerns, Feilmann asks “Why doesn’t this change?”

Following the legislative investigation into this tragedy, the investigative committee recommended that no solitary confinement be used with residents who have serious mental illness.

The committee report documented the significant number of seriously mentally ill residents in solitary confinement and the dangerously high number of prisoners who are released directly into Nebraska communities Read Fielmann’s Public Pulse piece concerning from solitary confinement. solitary confinement.

Despite these recommendations, the Nebraska prison system has continued to use solitary Dangers of Solitary Confinement as shown in confinement with severely mentally ill prisoners.

Omaha-World Herald The Public Pulse, Mar 17, 2019: Other states have virtually eliminated the use of solitary confinement and greatly restricted Legislative Bill 739 proposes to severely or no longer allow the release of a prisoner restrict the placement of seriously mentally directly from solitary confinement. ill prisoners in solitary confinement. The Nebraska Department of Corrections’ use of solitary confinement for the severely mentally These changes, recently noted in a Frontline/ PBS documentary “Last Days of Solitary,” have ill was a major factor preceding the robberyresulted in greatly reduced costs and vastly murders of four people in Omaha by Nikko improved staff and community safety.

Jenkins in 2013.

The changes outlined in LB 739 must occur now, or we risk continued preventable Jenkins was released directly into the community tragedy. community from four years in solitary confinement, during which he repeatedly Watch Last Days of Solitary on requested mental health treatment and FRONTLINE at PBS: repeatedly warned that he would kill when http://bit.ly/LastDaysofSolitary released.

A LOST ALTERNATIVE

BY LUIS E. JIMENEZ

“Nothing is ever lost nor can be lost.” – Walt Whitman

In May 2018, the Douglas County Board attempted to buy property at 420 S. 18th Street, owned by architect Bob Perrin. He refused the offer, stating that he was invested in the building. On July 10 news struck: the county voted 6-1 to use eminent domain, an attempt to seize the building for demolition, with the intent of using that site to relocate juvenile detention downtown.

The acquistion was necessary, the county said, to execute a one-stop model where everything for juvenile justice is located together. The lack of public discussion on the part of the county commissioners, coupled with their steady maneuvering, had citizens asking if there was another choice.

Commissioner James Cavanaugh, an early opponent of the foregoing arrangements and chair of the administrative services committee, publicly stated at county meetings that he was determined to provide an alternative design, which he said was “better, cheaper, smarter” and focused on the local kids.

Something of concern was unfolding, which prompted Commissioner Mike Boyle at the July 31 board meeting to tell Cavanaugh, “I would like to ask you if you would consider, at some point maybe after you wrap up with the judges, if you would have a full blown hearing here, let these folks come up. We can give and take with [the public], a total presentation, and answer their questions.” Boyle wasn’t simply asking for an alternative design, he was also insisting that local community members have a say in the development of the county justice project.

Commissioner Cavanaugh responded, “I think that’s a great idea. We anticipate doing it.”

2018 Timeline: A Possible Alternative Commissioner Boyle’s request for $20,000 in county resources to research a different plan went unrecognized by the county board. His colleagues were determined to move with their $120 million proposal, set to be managed by a private non-profit corporation. Commissioner Chris Rodgers repeated that five members on the county board had made the decision to continue with collocating downtown.

Boyle and Cavanaugh proceeded to take their fellow members to task for what they believed to be right by the youth.

By late summer 2018, the county board had two undaunted opponents speaking up asking for a halt to plans. Commissioner Boyle was deliberate,

Cavanaugh discussing his alternative with community members at an Administrative Service Committee Meeting

“I have met with people and I’ve listened. We need to move. The juvenile detention center should not be in downtown. It doesn’t do the things we need to do. I’m concerned about the children, which all of us are at some point. We don’t need to take Mr. Perrin’s building.” On September 25, Commissioner Boyle submitted three resolutions to rescind use of eminent domain, pause plans for the downtown juvenile center in favor of more public engagement, and consider renovation of the present youth detention facilities.

The resolutions were voted down by Commissioners Mary Ann Borgeson, Clare Duda, Marc Kraft, PJ Morgan, and Rodgers.

On October 30, the commissioners were given an update by the Douglas County Unified Justice Center Development Corporation (JCDC), the non-profit that has developing authority granted by an ancillary agreement.

New developments on the official county plans consisted of estimated costs. They included $7.3 million for HDR Architecture, Inc., as architect and engineer, and $2.5 million for Burlington Capital as project manager.

Commissioner Borgeson did hint that she may consider a different solution, telling opponents, “I’m looking real forward to your detail on your alternative plan, as you have asked us—as we’re doing, providing detail for this plan.”

In the meantime, Cavanaugh had his administrative services committee hold public meetings and confer with county and local experts on an alternate plan. Some in the public wanted to have a vote of the people to approve the millions in revenue bonds. Others like the Omaha police union, who oppose plans

to build a smaller juvenile detention center, preferred trauma-informed designs.

Tuesday, November 20, Cavanaugh finally presented his plan and said his alternative proposal would cost about $116 million. The two components for the his plan: a) An educational setting and rehabilitative atmosphere for juvenile detention at DCYC, which would undergo refurbishments. b) The courthouse annex, associated offices and legal services would have a new home on county property downtown.

His alternate plan did not seem to persuade the other five commissioners, and Cavanaugh’s presentation remained simply an idea.

December brought renewed discussion on moving the official plan to where Metropolitan Utility District (MUD) offices are located, since Mr. Perrin was fighting eminent domain in court.

His building had received landmark status from the Landmarks Heritage Preservation Commission. Following the City Planning Department’s recommendation, the Omaha Planning Board had voted 7-0 in agreement in October that the Omaha City Council grant local landmark status to the Perrin building, which would protect the old automotive dealership from demolition. City Council had the item on their agenda, but laid it over to late January to allow Perrin’s lawsuit to pan out.

2019 Timeline: Against an Alternative On Tuesday, January 29, Omaha City Council voted 7-0 to give historic landmark status to the building at 420 S. 18th Street. This major decision prohibits the county from constructing

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April 19, 2019

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a juvenile detention on that site. However, that same morning Commissioner Cavanaugh had been removed from his post in the administrative services committee, which was the decision of board chair Chris Rodgers.

Cavanaugh had used the committee to mount opposition and dissent to official plans. Those five members on the board did not appear to appreciate Cavanaugh’s attempts to persuade them and the public to keep Douglas County Youth Center at its current location, and not downtown. Rodgers’ decision had the effect of prohibiting official discussion and procedure in favor of an alternative plan.

January 24: Public Building Commission rejects $120 million bond requested from the county.

January 29: Cavanaugh is removed as chair of the administrative services committee.

January 29: City Council approves landmark designation requested by Perrin.

February 26: County board passes MUD purchase for $6.25 million.

March 18: Cavanaugh presents Alternative Plan 2.0.

March 26: Commissioners pass resolution requesting $114 million in revenue bonds from the Public Building Commission.

April 2: Douglas County Justice Center Forum, the nonprofit told participants no alternative plans would be considered.

April 11: Douglas County submitted a motion in court to dismiss the eminent domain of 420 S. 18th Street.

Artist rendering of an alternative: Aerial view of the Douglas County Courthouse, Omaha-Douglas Civic Center, MUD Block, and area for proposed Justice Annex.

April has brought good news for opponents.

Bob Perrin said the next step for him will be to determine if the county is liable for damages caused in the defense of their attempted takeover.

Commissioner James Cavanaugh provided an updated alternative plan “2.0” which utilizes the MUD land purchase and keeps juvenile detention at 42nd and Woolworth. However, he cannot use county resources for his effort and must rely on citizen volunteers for expert contributions. are cruelty free? Believe in sustainability on all levels? What companies can you purchase from that are involved in our community?

ALMIGHTY DOLLAR EDITORIAL BY ASHLEY SALEM “Money, money, money, money, money. Some people got to have it, some people really need it.

For that lean, mean, mean green almighty dollar, money.” For the Love of Money by The O’Jays is a classic so and reminds us that the so called “almighty dollar”, is the currency and power we exchange for what we want.

How do we use said power? Are we using our buying power to liberate ourselves and our community? Or, are we exchanging our buying power in an absentminded way, consuming “stuff” without thought to why? In a TEDx Talk by Maggie Anderson, author and brainchild behind The Empowerment Experiment, explains that, “if the middle-class black consumers were to spend a little more — 7 percent more, just 10 percent of their spending — with black firms and the mainstream firms that engage them, we can create almost 1 million jobs.”

Creating jobs is a direct and intentional way to be liberated. Creating jobs in black communities will lower unemployment rates as well as provide local employment for those who find transportation to be an obstacle. What are some other ways we can support current black-owned companies, and empower ourselves?

Simple tasks could include supporting black business by submitting reviews and pictures. Tell your families and friends. Think longer and bigger.

Look at money exchange as what you’re investing in. What companies do you like that connect to your personal interests? Let’s say you have a love of animals, what companies can you buy from that What do you think? Share your thoughts and feedback with us in-person at POWER Hour every Saturday from 2-4 p.m.

Visit noiseomaha.com for location.

Let’s be very clear, black people make things cool. We can go down the rabbit hole of cultural appropriation but let’s just broad paint stroke it by saying, whether it’s hairstyles, fashion, music or inventions of all kinds. We set the benchmark. We are also, at higher rates, stepping into arenas such as medicine, technology and government.

According to The United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Statistics,”The educational attainment of the Black labor force has increased over the past two decades.” The report goes on to say, “The number of Blacks attaining an associate degree also has increased. However, the largest increase in educational attainment has been in the number of Blacks attaining a Bachelor’s degree or higher.”

As we continue to educate ourselves, we bring our wit, experience, flare and most of all our perspective to our selected field of work. Which allows us to approach situations, conversations, and perpetual problems with solutions that may have never been considered before.

I interviewed local business owner Diamond Marie of D-Marie Hair Boutique. Her boutique is a 100% human hair retail boutique and online store that provides high quality Brazilian and Peruvian bundles in various lengths, colors, and styles. As she spoke of her business her eyes widened with her smile. She spoke of not only her consultation services, but also the reason behind her pursuit.

“We are honored by being the only boutique that offers the type of products and services we provide to the public. It is imperative to

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create jobs and cash circulation throughout the urban community for future growth and development within.” Diamond’s boutique can be found at 2118 North 24th Street, as well as their website www.dmariehairboutique.com Something I always tell my son and remind myself is that everything takes maintenance.

Both action and inaction, our personal power is ours. You can use your own as a superpower for good, or bad. If we take our buying power and use it to level up long-term, what would that look like? Consider the equity of a home, it has more trading power than paying rent in an apartment. So perhaps with the refund money from your taxes, you and a friend decide to collab and put your refunds together, to put a down payment on a house or property to buy.

You have power, you have a voice, your ideas and contribution matter. I encourage you to use the exchange of money to create the reality you want to see for yourself and future generations. If you would like to start or even continue investing in black-owned products and services, there is an app to assist you in finding them. The app is called BWS (Black Wall Street) officialblackwallstreet.com/app/. Also right in our backyards are some upcoming events to support locally: Fair Deal Village Marketplace Farmers Market Market Hours: June 2019 - September 2019 Saturdays, 9 am - 1 pm Location: OEDC Parking Lot, 2221 North 24th Street Black Business Expo, June 9th For more details as they become available, go to Facebook: Minorities About Business @MinoritiesAboutBusiness

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If you or someone you know should be featured email us at noiseomaha@gmail.com

April 19, 2019