Omaha Star
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Publisher’s Pen Terri D. Sanders
COVID is hanging around like a bad penny. The month of February signals Black History Month. As we say the shortest month of the year with the most history to fit in. Have you seen the 1619 Project documentary? I will be watching this week. Ms. Jones’ book has been converted to a documentary and I am sure it will be on the “must see” list. Have you seen Emancipation? Another “must see.” The iconic photo of the slave man with whip marks on his back, this is his story.
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The celebration of Black History was established in 1926 by Carter Godwin Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History which was the second week in February. Mr. Woodson believed that “if a race has no history, it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world, and it stands in danger of being exterminated.” In his book The Miseducation of the American Negro Woodson wrote “When you control a man’s thinking you do not have to worry about his actions.” Let that roll around in your mind… Black History Month was first proposed by Black educators and the Black United Students at Kent State University in February 1969, the celebration took place a year later from February 2 to February 28, 1970. Six years later Black history Month was being celebrated all across the country and President Gerald Ford recognized Black History month during the celebration of the United States Bicentennial. President Ford said that we should “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” The Governor of Florida must not have received this memo from 1970…
Public, private support for economic development corporation results in $40 million in grant funds Sankofa Innovation District, a startup nonprofit organization working to expand financial equity and inclusion for North and South Omaha, was recommended as one of 35 grant recipients to receive $40 million in grant funding as part of the Nebraska State Legislature’s Economic Recovery Act. The grant recommendations, which were announced in early January, are designed to help reinvest in communities that have been some of the most negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Founded in late summer/early fall of 2022, the nonprofit immediately began meeting with city officials and administrative leaders working in the private sector as well as in local educational institutions to share information about its mission and goals. The Sankofa board of directors includes representation from the community, technology innovation and entrepreneurial leadership, financial leadership, legal and other areas of discipline needed to support the mission and vision. The organization is poised to invest in the economic viability of North and South Omaha with an aim to boost the short and long-term growth and sustainability of the city and state’s overall economic health. The nonprofit will be located in East Omaha within the 16th and Locust Street corridor. It will: • start new black and minority-owned small businesses and grow existing ones • provide entrepreneurs with financial literacy and business education, access to capital and wraparound support to ensure they are positioned to succeed • create jobs in our community that contribute to our economic growth • attract talent and businesses • upskill existing talent • increase the number of businesses owned by black, indigenous and people of color in our community
After all that just think there are politicians who are trying to erase Blacks from text books and thus history. Listen “stand for something (our history being told and shared ) or you will fall for anything (we are not significant nor do our contributions matter). Singer James Brown said it best “Say it LOUD I am Black and I am PROUD. Nina Simone captured the sentiment and in closing I will share her lyrics “To Be Young Gifted and Black”: Oh what a lovely precious dream To be young, gifted and black Open your heart to what I mean In the whole world you know There’s a million boys and girls Who are young, gifted and black And that’s a fact “You are young, gifted and black” We must begin to tell our young There’s a world waiting for you Yours is the quest that’s just begun When you feelin’ really low Yeah, there’s a great truth that you should know When you’re young, gifted and black Your soul’s intact How to be young, gifted and black? Oh, how I long to know the truth There are times when I look back And I am haunted by my youth Oh, but my joy of today Is that we can all be proud to say “To be young, gifted and black Is where it’s at”
Nebraska Legislative Bills 1024 and 450 have opened a route for additional investments to improve the city and state’s competitiveness and sustainability, said Sankofa’s executive director, Dr. Martin Williams. “As a city and state, we are stronger together when everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed in life. We have a large-scale plan in progress to make this happen. Starting to help establish new, minority-owned businesses and investing in existing small businesses is the first step to building a better future for our community’s next generation,” Williams said. “We know there is boundless opportunity for growth in North and South Omaha, especially as we enter this fourth industrial revolution where technology is seeing rapid improvement and innovation.” Sankofa will convene innovators, entrepreneurs, community members and university support to collaborate, develop ideas and spur economic impact in the previously disinvested communities of North and South Omaha. Once the business innovation district is fully operational, the 10-year outlook could bring multimillion-dollar annual returns and position Omaha for $1 billion or more in follow-up investments.
Commit these words to your heart as we celebrate in the month of February, but remember our history runs 365 days a year!
About the Sankofa Innovation District
The Sankofa Innovation District is a startup economic development corporation that will work to expand financial equity and inclusion for North and South Omaha. Sankofa is an African word that originates from the Akan tribe in Ghana. The term is expressed visually through a mythical bird. It means “it is never too late to turn around and start on a new path.” •
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LOCAL NEWS
THE OMAHA STAR
February 3, 2023
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Terri D. Sanders - publisher@omahastarinc.com Business Hours: Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Member of the National Newspaper Publishers Association Mildred D. Brown: Founder, July 9, 1938 Dr. Marguerita L. Washington: Publisher, 1989 - 2016 Phyllis Hicks: Publisher/Managing Editor, 2016 - 2019 Terri D. Sanders, Publisher Beryl Barnes: Administrator Calvin Lacy: Retail Distributor THE OMAHA STAR believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonism when it accords every man, regardless of race, color or creed, his human and legal rights. Hating no man, fearing no man in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as one is held back.
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Bellevue Little Theatre presents Sweet on Soneheim Bellevue Little Theatre will present ‘Sweet on Sondheim’, a benefit performance for the BLT on Saturday evening, Feb. 11, 7:30 pm, at the theatre, 203 W. Mission Ave. in Olde Towne Bellevue. The musical program will feature selections by Stephen Soneheim, the famed composer who passed away in 2021. Wine and light refreshments will be served to those attending. Participants will include cast members from the BLT’s upcoming production of ‘A Little Night Music’ which will open on March 10 for a three week run at the BLT. Other talented area songbirds, and members of the Omaha based Mastersingers will join the cast onstage for the musical benefit. All musical selections will be by Sondheim. Reservations are not required. The benefit is free, but donations will be gratefully accepted from those attending. •
College of Saint Mary to Reopen New President Search College of Saint Mary will reopen the search for a new president using an aggressive timeline. The renewed search comes as CSM learned this week that Dr. Glynis Fitzgerald accepted the presidency at her current institution, Alvernia University in Reading, Pennsylvania. “As thrilled as I was about assuming the presidency at CSM, the unexpected opportunity to lead Alvernia as president is one I cannot turn down,” said Dr. Glynis Fitzgerald. “Staying at Alvernia during these next few years is the best choice for my academic community.”
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“While this was unexpected, CSM is well positioned to expedite a renewed search process, and we have ample time to conduct a robust search,” said CSM Board Chair Sue Weiler-Doke ’85. “College of Saint Mary is excited to welcome its eighth president as we head into our next 100 years.” College of Saint Mary – educating leaders since 1923. CSM is a Catholic university providing access to education for women in an environment that calls forth potential and fosters leadership. The University offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in many of today’s highest-paying, in-demand fields, including physician assistant studies, occupational therapy, physical therapy, nursing, science, education, business and legal studies. Graduate programs are open to all.
CSM offers its student body an enriching collegiate experience that includes competitive athletics and a wide range of fine arts opportunities. A member of the Great Plains Athletic Conference (GPAC), CSM Flames student-athletes field teams in 11 competitive sports: basketball, soccer, softball, volleyball, golf, bowling, competitive dance, swimming, tennis, track, and cross country. Fine arts play a significant role in rounding out an academic experience, and CSM provides students with the opportunity to continue their passion for music, art and drama. Located in the heart of Omaha, home of four Fortune 500 companies, CSM’s 40-acre campus is adjacent to Aksarben Village’s vibrant and bustling retail and entertainment space, as well as Baxter Arena. CSM is minutes from world-class attractions such as the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Joslyn Art Museum, Lauritzen Gardens and CHI Health Center Omaha. To learn more about College of Saint Mary, see CSM. edu, or contact Leeanna Ellis, PR strategist and content writer. 402-399-2349 • lellis@csm.edu •
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February 3, 2023
LOCAL NEWS Ben Gray named to Board
History Nebraska announces that Ben Gray will fill a vacant seat on the Board of Trustees effective today. Gray fills the seat vacated by Connie Spellman, who stepped down in for personal reasons. Gray will serve the remainder of Spellman’s term through 2023 and will be eligible for reelection. Gray’s history of service to the Omaha community began at KETV Channel 7 where he worked for more than 34 years. Ben worked tirelessly to help build a more diverse workforce within KETV at every level. He challenged business leaders, elected officials and community advocates to recognize their responsibilities to the community in general and to specifically respond to the severe needs of North Omaha. Besides the work Ben did as a photojournalist and producer at KETV he took on other responsibilities both inside and outside the station. For 30 years Ben produced and hosted the popular, award-winning public affairs show, Kaleidoscope. The show was his effort to keep the community informed on major issues locally and nationally, yet presented the information from an African American perspective. In addition to the day-to-day work in the newsroom, Ben began working with hard core gang members in 1986. In 1989, Ben convinced the management at KETV to hire one of the most talked about gang members in Omaha. Ben had the strong belief that if disadvantaged young people and those feeling left out could see how corporate America works they too had a chance at the American dream.
THE OMAHA STAR
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Also, while at KETV, Gray was elected chairman of the African American Achievement Council. This group of community volunteers worked directly with the Omaha Public Schools to find solutions for underachieving Black students. For more than eight years, the council worked directly with students, worked with teachers and administrators as well as the community. Among our proudest achievements was going from a 51% graduation rate for African American students to an 81% graduation rate over the course of eight years. In 2008, Gray retired from KETV and took a job with the Omaha Community Foundation to work with middle school students within the Omaha Public Schools. In 2009, Gray was elected to the Omaha City Council representing District 2. In his personal life, Gray has a deep interest in Nebraska history. He is currently working on a documentary on the Hastings ammunition’s depot from World War II and it’s impact on the people in the area. He has also produced segments for television on the Buffalo Soldiers of Fort Robinson and Susan McKinney Steward who was one of the first Black female doctors in the country who practiced for years at Fort Niobrara.
About History Nebraska
History Nebraska collects, preserves, and shares Nebraska’s history for all people. History Nebraska operates the Nebraska History Museum in Lincoln and historic sites around the state including Chimney Rock Museum, Fort Robinson History Center, Neligh Mill State Historic Site, Thomas Kennard State Historic Site, Senator George Norris State Historic
Site, John Neihardt State Historic Site, and over 570 historical markers placed across Nebraska. History Nebraska administers the State Archives and Library; the State Historic Preservation Office; the Gerald R. Ford Conservation Center; the Office of the State Archeologist; publishes Nebraska History Magazine and books; and is responsible for the administration of the Nebraska Hall of Fame Commission. More at https://history.nebraska.gov and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. •
NORTH END TELESERVICES, LLC ANNOUNCES NEW VICE PRESIDENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES, EMPLOYEE AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS OMAHA, Neb. – North End Teleservices, LLC (NET), announces its new Vice President of Human Resources, Employee and Community Relations. Keisha Thomas, who has served with the company since its launch in September 2015 holds the title of the first employee hired at NET. She joined the company, located at 24th and Hamilton Streets as the Human Resources Project Manager. “In her new role, Thomas will continue to advance the human resources strategy and reach to each employee, crafting the company’s ability to continue the mission of creating jobs and changing lives,” said Chris Phillips, Chief Operating Officer of North End Teleservices. “Keisha has played an instrumental role in shaping the internal culture and employment brand,” said Carmen Tapio, CEO of North End Teleservices. “She’s an incredible person and leader who always puts the best interest of our employees first. She has helped us navigate the HR requirements from a small start-up to where we are today as an Inc. 5000 company. Her contributions are not only centered on the company and our
employees, but she also plays a significant role through her board service and community-facing contributions. Her impact is evident in who we are as an organization.” Thomas most recently served as the Director of Human Resources, Employee and Community Relations at North End. She has grown the department, recruiting, development and compliance strategies over the past seven years. She plays a pivotal role in achieving North End’s mission of creating jobs and changing lives. “We are extremely proud of the work Keisha has done and continues doing for our organization. She advocates for our employees every single day and is an instrumental part of our employee development,” Phillips said.. “Keisha is a vital member of our leadership team. Keisha has led the Human Resources human capital strategy, growth, and development to a place our organization applauds. She is a key and foundational team member of North End Teleservices.” A graduate of Creighton University and SHRMSCP certified, Thomas currently serves on Metropolitan Community
College’s Business Administration Advisory Board, Heartland Workforce Solutions Board of Directors, Heartland Workforce Solutions Strategy, and Innovation Committee, Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce’s Greater Omaha Worklab (GrOW) Advisory Committee, Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce Employer Coalition for CODE, Avenue Scholars Community Advisory Committee and the Business Ethics Alliance Advisory Committee.
About North End Teleservices, LLC
North End Teleservices, LLC (NET) is an omnichannel global provider of business process outsourcing (BPO) to small and large businessto-business and businessto-consumer government and commercial entities. The company is committed to creating jobs and changing lives. North End Teleservices is a certified woman-owned, minorityowned, HUBZone and Enterprise Zone business serving as an extension of its client’s brands and service delivery model. NET customizes contact center operations to meet every client’s specific needs. You dream it, NET builds it. •
Taking our newspaper into the future
OMAHA STAR MORNING NEWS BYTES A PODCAST
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THE OMAHA STAR
OUT AND ABOUT
February 3, 2023
Find the word in the puzzle. Words can go in any direction. Words can share letters as they cross over each other.
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It’s Your Time to Path Forward SCHOLARSHIPS FOR ALL MCC awards hundreds of scholarships to students of all ages every year. Apply year-round with a single application; it’s quick, easy and free Everyone is eligible — no age restrictions Johnny Rodgers Career & Technical Education Scholarship - for certificate or associate degree programs in technical and applied trades MCC Board of Governors Scholarship - for Nebraska residents Nebraska Career Scholarship - for Nebraska residents in eligible programs of study, renewable for up to three years Use for tuition, books, fees or other education-related expenses
YOU’RE ELIGIBLE AND ENCOURAGED TO APPLY Metropolitan Community College affirms a policy of equal education, employment opportunities and nondiscrimination in providing services to the public. We are committed to ensuring our websites and facilities are accessible and usable to everyone. To read our full policy statement, visit mccneb.edu/nondiscrimination.
FEBRUARY 7-12, 2023 • ORPHEUM THEATER Get tickets at TicketOmaha.com
February 3, 2023
OUT AND ABOUT
Brittany Thompson shares her art with family
Diane and Celeste ARTISTS
Mars Black and his art
Hilmer Gallery Artist CSM
Patty Talbert and her art
JE Woods Artist with his art
Rowena and her art
Anthony Brown and his art
Anthony Pena and his art
Community Meeting
Marand Adams and Titus Adam’s 40th Birthday Celebration
Community Panel State of North Omaha
THE OMAHA STAR
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THE OMAHA STAR
NEWS YOU CAN USE
February 3, 2023
Rest and Destress With a DIY Spa Night That Every Sister Deserves By Anissa Gabbara
try a turmeric mask. You might also benefit from using a retinol-infused under-eye mask to smooth fine lines, or cucumberinfused eye patches to reduce puffiness, hydrate and diminish dark circles.
5. Wash your woes away.
Immerse yourself in a tub of warm water diffused with calming bath salts that put your mind and body at ease while detoxifying your skin. If you opt for a shower instead, lather up with a hydrating body wash with humectants, such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Amplify the experience by placing a shower steamer infused with essential oils on the floor, and let the steam from the hot water fill the air with soothing aromas.
6. Moisturize your melanin.
Follow a good scrub down with some moisture restoration. Try a floral-scented botanical body oil with nourishing oils, such as avocado and grapeseed, to feed your skin with nutrients that replenish dry skin. Additionally, shea butter leaves your skin feeling soft and supple the morning after, thanks to its naturally occurring fatty acids.
7. Retire to bed for a restful slumber. Give yourself — and your pockets — a breather with these oh-so soothing steps. Did you get enough self-care hours this week, sis? If your answer is no, now may be the perfect time to hit the reset button. How about fitting in more me time into your regimen with some weekly tranquility and rejuvenation in the sanctuary of your own home? Ditch the daytime spa and treat yourself to an evening of at-home pampering and relaxation with these spa-worthy steps:
1. Simplify the experience.
To get the most out of this self-care session, do a bit of light prepping in advance. Begin by decluttering your environment because, as they say, a clear space can help promote a clear mind. After you tidy up, get some of your pam-
pering steps out the way. For example, you might consider scheduling wash day a few days before since the goal is to actually relax on the day of. Be sure to stock your shelves with hair products that cater to your crown, such as nourishing masks and deep conditioners.
2. Set the mood.
Rid yourself of the usual distractions (e.g., emails, texts, phone calls, etc.). Wrap yourself up in a light and airy robe and find your Zen with the soft sounds of ambient music playing in the background or a little bit of Sade for a true soul cleanse. Unwind with a whiff of lavender- or eucalyptusscented aromatherapy candles. Then, turn on your favorite podcast or relish in a good read, and drift into bliss.
3. Free your scalp from tension.
Since your tresses are already clean, use this time to give your scalp a midweek moisture boost and a much-needed massage, with a soothing, nutrient-rich oil that you don’t need to wash out. Good to know: In addition to possibly promoting hair growth, stimulating the scalp with daily massages may have therapeutic benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and reducing tension headaches.
4. Freshen up with a face mask.
After cleansing your skin, pamper your pores with a gentle detoxifying mask, such as a charcoal-rich product to remove impurities and excess oils. To help fade dark spots and even out your complexion,
Pull on a pair of cozy PJs and brew a calming cup of chamomile tea. Finish your regimen with a lip sleeping mask to replenish a parched pout. Tuck your tresses in a satin scarf or bonnet, spritz a fine mist of lavender-scented sleep spray on your pillow and sheets and enjoy the light pressure of a weighted eye mask to help you doze off in no time. Your beauty sleep begins now, and when the morning comes, you’ll awaken to a feeling of clarity and renewal.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Anissa Gabbara is a Michigan-based freelance writer who enjoys the beauty, health, lifestyle, and pop culture space. In addition to Sisters, she has contributed to Sesi magazine, and Maple City Our Town. She is also an experienced PR and marketing professional. •
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PRAISE & WORSHIP DIRECTORY PRAISE & WORSHIP DIRECTORY
February 3, 2023 February 3, 2023
ALLEN CHAPEL A.M.E. Rev. Jacqueline Ford,A.M.E. Pastor ALLEN CHAPEL
Rev. Jacqueline Ford Rev. Jacqueline Ford
Monroe Street Rev.2842 Jacqueline Ford, Pastor Omaha, NE 68107 2842 Monroe Street Off: (402) 734-3399 Omaha, NE 68107 Email: admin@allenchapelomaha.org Off: (402) 734-3399 Email: admin@allenchapelomaha.org Sunday School...........................9:00 a.m. SundaySchool...........................9:00 Praise & Worship.....10:00a.m. a.m. Sunday Thursday Bible p.m. Sunday Praise &Study..............8:00 Worship.....10:00 a.m. via teleconference, dial-in number Thursday Bible Study..............8:00 p.m. 563-999-2090 and access code 576989 via teleconference, dial-in number 563-999-2090 and access code 576989
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KING SOLOMON MISSIONARY BAPTIST KING SOLOMON CHURCH MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH 3202 Evans Street
ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR ST. CATHOLIC BENEDICT CHURCH THE MOOR CATHOLIC CHURCH 2423 Grant St.
Omaha, NE 68111 2423 Grant St. Ph: 402-348-0631 • Fax 402-342-4451 Omaha, NE 68111 Sunday Mass: a.m. Ph: 402-348-0631 • Fax9:00 402-342-4451 Reconciliation: Sunday Sunday Mass: 9:00after a.m.Mass or by appointment Reconciliation: Sunday after Mass or by appointment
Omaha, NE Street 68111 3202 Evans Ph: 402-455-0358 Omaha, NE 68111 Fax: 402-455-0801 Ph: 402-455-0358 Fax: 402-455-0801 kingsolomonbaptist@yahoo.com
Pastor Albert Jonathan Wagstaff
kingsolomonomaha.org kingsolomonbaptist@yahoo.com kingsolomonomaha.org
Pastor Albert Jonathan WagstaffSchool......8:45 a.m. Sunday
Sunday a.m. SundayMorning......10:00 School......8:45 a.m. BibleSunday Study, Tuesdays......6:00 7:30 p.m. Morning......10:00-a.m. Prayer Service, Wednesdays......12 Bible Study, Tuesdays......6:00 - 7:30noon p.m. Prayer Service, Wednesdays......12 noon Journey to Tomorrow, Our Next Step Journey to Tomorrow, Our Next Step Judges 18:4-6 Judges 18:4-6
& &
Rev. Michael Voithofer
Rev. Michael ABLAZE Voithofer HOUSE OF PRAYER
11501 FairviewHOUSE Road, Springfield, NE 68059 ABLAZE OF PRAYER Ph:Fairview 402-451-6622 Fax 402-457-6901 11501 Road, •Springfield, NE 68059 Ph: 402-451-6622 • Fax 402-457-6901 Contact Ablaze: email: ablazeworshipministry@gmail.com Contact Ablaze: email: ablazeworshipministry@gmail.com Pastor: Rev. Michael Voithofer Pastor: Rev. Michael Voithofer
SACRED HEART CATHOLIC CHURCH SACRED HEART Fr. DaveCHURCH Korth CATHOLIC
BETHEL MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH BETHEL MISSIONARY Rev. Dr. Lorenzo S.L. Fincher BAPTIST CHURCH
Pastor Rev. Dr. Senior Lorenzo S.L. Fincher 5318Senior SouthPastor 30th Street Omaha, 68107 5318 SouthNE 30th Street Phone: (402) 731-1840 Omaha, NE 68107 Phone: (402) 731-1840 Rev. Dr. Lorenzo S.L. Fincher Senior Pastor Rev. Dr. Lorenzo S.L. Fincher Senior Pastor
“Large enough to serve you, Small enough “Large enoughtotoknow serve you” you, Small enough to know you”
Sunday School .............................................. 9:30 a.m. Worship ..............................................9:30 10:45 a.m. Sunday Services School .............................................. a.m. Wednesday Prayer Services ..........................................6:30 Worship Services .............................................. 10:45 a.m.p.m. Wednesday Study.....................7:00 - 8:00 p.m.p.m. Wednesday PrayerBible Services ..........................................6:30 Wednesday Bible Study.....................7:00 - 8:00 p.m. Biblically Based, Family Oriented, Dynamic Fellowship Biblically Based, Family Oriented, Dynamic Fellowship
MORNING STAR BAPTIST CHURCH MORNING2019 STAR BAPTIST Burdette Street CHURCH
Omaha, NE 68110 2019 Burdette Street Ph: 402-342-0018 Omaha, NE 68110 Ph: 402-342-0018 Worship Service .............10:00 a.m. Sunday School a.m. Worship Service.................8:45 .............10:00 a.m. Excluding First Sunday a.m. Sunday School .................8:45 TuesdayExcluding Evening Service.........7:00 p.m. First Sunday Tuesday Evening Service.........7:00 p.m. Live Streaming Sunday Service-10:00am on Morning Star BaptistSunday Church-Omaha Facebook Live Streaming Service-10:00am onPage Morning Star Baptist Church-Omaha Facebook Page
Fr. Dave Korth Fr. Dave Korth
Mass Schedule: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday - 8:00 am in Rectory Mass Schedule: (2218 Binney) Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday - 8:00 am in Rectory (2218 Binney) Thursday - School Mass 8:10 am in Church Thursday - School Mass 8:10pm am in Church Saturday - 5:00 Saturday - 5:00 Sunday - 8:15 am and pm 10:30 am Sunday - 8:15 am and 10:30 am
SALEM BAPTIST CHURCH
Serving God and One Another in the SALEM BAPTIST CHURCH Spirit of Excellence Serving God and One Another in the Rev.Spirit Dr. Selwyn Q. Bachus of Excellence Pastor Rev. Dr.Senior Selwyn Q. Bachus Senior Pastor 3131 Lake Street Omaha, NEStreet 68111 3131 Lake 402-455-1000 Omaha, NE 68111 www.salembc.org 402-455-1000 www.salembc.org
MOUNT CALVARY COMMUNITY CHURCH MOUNT CALVARY “Jesus is the Light of the World” COMMUNITY CHURCH
Bishop “Jesus is theKevin Light Chambers, of the World” Senior Bishop KevinPastor Chambers, www.m3comaha.org Senior Pastor www.m3comaha.org 5112 Ames Avenue Omaha, NEAvenue 68104 5112 Ames (402)Omaha, 457-4216 NEChurch 68104Phone (402) 457-4216 453-4084 Church Pastor’sPhone Office (402) (402) 453-4084 Pastor’s Office
Fr. Dave Korth 2207 Wirt Street Omaha, NEStreet 68110 2207 Wirt Phone: Omaha,402-451-5755 NE 68110 Phone: 402-451-5755
Bishop Kevin Chambers Bishop Kevin Chambers
Services: Sunday School .................................................... 9:30 a.m. Services: SundaySchool Morning Worship Experience ......... 11:00 a.m. Sunday .................................................... 9:30 a.m. Word On Wednesday (WOW) ........................ 7:00a.m. p.m. Sunday Morning Worship Experience ......... 11:00 Word On Wednesday (WOW) ........................ 7:00 p.m.
Weekly Services Sunday Morning WorshipWeekly ServiceServices .....................8:30 a.m. & 11:30 a.m. th Children’s Church (2nd & 4Service Sunday) ................8:30 a.m. & 11:30 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship .....................10:00a.m. nd Life Development (Sunday a.m. & 4th School) Sunday).........................................10:15 ................10:00a.m. Children’s Church (2 Wednesday Word and Worship (WWW) ................................ 6:30 p.m. Life Development (Sunday School) .........................................8:30a.m.. Wednesday Word and Worship (WWW) ................................ 6:30 p.m.
TABERNACLE OF TABERNACLE OF FAITH CHURCH Pastor Barbara Mitchell FAITH CHURCH
CLAIR MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CLAIR MEMORIAL CHURCH UNITED METHODIST “Come Get CHURCH Your Hilltop Experience”
“Come GetPortia YourA. Hilltop Experience” Rev. Cavitt, Pastor 5544 Rev. AmesPortia Avenue, Omaha, NE 68104 A. Cavitt, Pastor Telephone: 5544 Ames Avenue,402-451-8322 Omaha, NE 68104 Website: www.cmumc.net Telephone: 402-451-8322 Email: Website: www.cmumc.net clairumc@cumc.omhcoxmail.com Email: Rev. Portia A. Cavitt, Pastor clairumc@cumc.omhcoxmail.com Rev. Portia A. Cavitt, Pastor
Sunday School………………………8:45 a.m. Sunday School………………………8:45 Worship Experience………...10:00a.m. a.m. Sunday Wednesday Bible Study….…….…….6:00 p.m. Sunday Worship Experience………...10:00 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study….…….…….6:00 p.m.
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH FIRST UNITED Rev. Morita Truman, Lead Pastor METHODIST CHURCH
Rev. Morita Truman, Lead Pastor Services on Sundays at 8:30 amon&Sundays 10:50 amat Services 8:30 am & 10:50 am 7020 Cass Street, Omaha, NE 68132 402.556.6262 7020 Cass Street, Omaha, NE 68132 www.fumcomaha.org 402.556.6262 www.fumcomaha.org First United Methodist Church is a welcoming inclusiveChurch community, First Unitedand Methodist is a inspired toand grow with and in God. welcoming inclusive community, inspired to grow with and in God.
Rev. Dr. Selwyn Q. Bachus Rev. Dr. Selwyn Q. Bachus
Rev. T. Michael Williams
Dr. Ralph B. Lassiter
Elder Howard Dixon
MT. MORIAH MISSIONARY
Rev. T. Michael WilliamsBAPTIST Dr. RalphCHURCH B. Lassiter Elder Howard Dixon
“Transformed People Everywhere” MT. MORIAH MISSIONARY 2602BAPTIST N. 24th St.CHURCH - PO Box 11593
www.mtmoriahomaha.net “Transformed People Everywhere” Off: 2602 N. 24th(402) St. - 451-8800 PO Box 11593 Sunday Worship ..........................................10:45 a.m. www.mtmoriahomaha.net Live Stream: Facebook.com/mtmoriahomaha Off: (402) 451-8800 Sunday Worship ..........................................10:45 a.m. Please call Facebook.com/mtmoriahomaha for Prayer and Transformation Live Stream: Group Bible Study Schedule Please call for Prayer and Transformation Group Bible Study Schedule
2404 Fort Street, Pastor Barbara Mitchell Omaha, NEStreet, 68111 2404 Fort 402-455-1800 Church Omaha, NE 68111 402-455-3390 Fax 402-455-1800 Church 402-455-3390 Fax
Pastor Barbara Mitchell Pastor Barbara Mitchell
Sundays:
In Person Service 11:30 am and LIVE on Facebook Sundays: In Person Service 11:30 am LIVE on Facebook Wednesdayand Night
LIVEWednesday on Facebook 6:30 pm Night LIVE onFriday Facebook 6:30 pm Night LIVE on Facebook Friday Night7:00 pm LIVE on Facebook 7:00 pm
ZION BAPTIST CHURCH Rev. Kenneth A. Allen, Pastor ZION BAPTIST CHURCH Rev. Kenneth A. Allen, Pastor 2215 Grant Street Omaha, NE Street 68110 2215 Grant Ph: 402-346-1502 Omaha, NE 68110 Fax: 402-344-2720 Ph: 402-346-1502 Fax: 402-344-2720
Rev. Morita Truman
Pastor Kenneth A. Allen
Rev. Morita Truman
Pastor Kenneth A. Allen
SUNDAY Sunday Morning Worship……………10:00 A.M. SUNDAY SundayMorning School……………………….. 9:00A.M. A.M. Sunday Worship……………10:00 Sunday School……………………….. 9:00 A.M. WEDNESDAY 11:00 A.M.WEDNESDAY ~ Hour of Power Bible Study 11:00 Wednesday A.M. ~ HourisofFamily Power Night! Bible Study 6:00 P.M. ~ Prayer & Praise Service Wednesday is Family Night! 6:306:00 P.M.P.M. ~ Feast & Fellowship (Light ~ Prayer & Praise ServiceMeal) 7:15 P.M. ~ Discipleship 6:30 P.M. ~ Feast & FellowshipAcademy (Light Meal) (Classes for ages 5 & up) 7:15 P.M. ~ Discipleship Academy (Classes for ages 5 & up)
Charles Galloway - President, Rev John Deang - Pastor, Dr John Beasley - Elder Charles Galloway - President, Rev John Deang - Pastor, Dr John Beasley - Elder
HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH Missouri Synod HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH
2721 N. 30th Street Missouri Synod 402-453-1583 2721 N. 30th Street Sunday School................................10:00 a.m. 402-453-1583 Church Service...............................11:00 a.m. Sunday School................................10:00 a.m. YOU ARE ALWAYS WELCOME Church Service...............................11:00 a.m. YOU ARE ALWAYS WELCOME
JOY OF LIFE MINISTRIES COGIC JOY OF LIFE Pastors Eric and Cynthia Butler MINISTRIES COGIC
Pastors Eric and Cynthia Butler 6401 N. 56th Street Omaha, NE 68104 6401 N. 56th Street Ph: 402-399-9628 Omaha, NE 68104 E-Mail: Jolpastor@aol.com Ph: 402-399-9628 E-Mail: Jolpastor@aol.com Sunday Morning Worship.....10:00 a.m. SundayMorning Evening Worship.....10:00 Worship.......5:00 a.m. p.m. Sunday Wednesday Academy .............7:00p.m. p.m. Sunday Evening Worship.......5:00 Bible Study and Youth Ministries Wednesday Academy .............7:00 p.m. Bible Study and Youth Ministries
Pastor Eric Butler and Co-Pastor Cynthia Pastor Eric Butler Butler and Co-Pastor Cynthia Butler
PLEASANT GREEN BAPTIST CHURCH PLEASANT GREEN “Where CHRISTCHURCH is Preeminent and BAPTIST
Word isPrevails!” “Where the CHRIST Preeminent and the Word Prevails!” Pastor Brian Page 5555 Larimore Avenue Pastor Brian Page Church: 402-346-8427 5555 Larimore Avenue www.pleasantgreenomaha.org Church: 402-346-8427 www.pleasantgreenomaha.org
THE WORSHIP CENTER
Pastor Brian Page
Pastor Brian Page Wednesday: Prayer Power HourWednesday: ......................................12:00 p.m Prayer Power Hour ......................................12:00 p.m Thursday: Youth For Christ ............................................6:00 p.m Thursday: PrayerFor & Bible ....................................6:30p.m p.m Youth ChristStudy ............................................6:00 Prayer & Bible Study ....................................6:30 p.m Sunday: Sunday School.................................................9:00 a.m. Sunday: Morning Worship..........................................10:15 a.m. Sunday School.................................................9:00 a.m. Morning Worship..........................................10:15 a.m. Televised Broadcast Sunday @ 10pm on KPAO Cox Communication channel 22 &@ Century channel 89 Televised Broadcast Sunday 10pm Link on KPAO Cox Communication channel 22 & Century Link channel 89
Dr. Stan Rone Senior Dr. StanPastor Rone Senior Pastor
North 24th Street Church of God THE WORSHIP CENTER “Presenting the Never-Changing North 24th Street Church of God GOD to an ever-changing World!” “Presenting the Never-Changing GOD to an ever-changing World!” Dr. Stan Rone - Senior Pastor 2021 N. 24th Street Dr. Stan Rone - Senior Pastor Omaha, NE 68110 2021 N. 24th Street (402) 341-4297 Omaha, NE 68110 (402) 341-4297
Sunday Kingdom Academy Sunday 9:00 a.m. Worship 10:15a.m. a.m. KingdomCelebration Academy 9:00 Tuesday Worship Celebration 10:15 a.m. Prayer Hour 7:00 a.m. & 12:00 noon Tuesday Prayer Hour Wednesday 7:00 a.m. & 12:00 noon Power Hour (Prayer/Bible WednesdayStudy) 6:30 p.m. Youth and ChildrenStudy) 6:30 p.m. Power Hour (Prayer/Bible 6:30 p.m. www.theworshipcenter24cog.org Youth and Children 6:30 p.m. www.theworshipcenter24cog.org
Page Eight
BUSINESS CONNECTION
THE OMAHA STAR
Attorney
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Timothy Ashford
Auto Service
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Home Team Auto Sales
Ron Devers owner
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Candice Price, owner sales@hometeamauto.com
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Attorney at Law 1603 Farnam Street Omaha, NE 68102
402.641.6220 6005 Sorenson Pkwy Omaha, NE 68152
Ron's Auto Center
(402) 660-5544 attorneytimothyashford@gmail.com
Banking
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A CUT ABOVE DOWN NORTH Meet your new barber: ~ For over 8 years Polo has been an elite barber in the Omaha metropolitan area. ~ 2x Barber of the Year nominee for UNLYP ~ Cuts have been featured on ESPN, MTV, CNN, Nickelodeon, and various news outlets.
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For an appointment www.polobland.com
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Coffee
February 3, 2023
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RELIGION/OBITUARY
February 3, 2023
THE OMAHA STAR
Page Nine
KIDS TALK ABOUT GOD BY CAREY KINSOLVING AND FRIENDS
With So Many Religions, How Can Jesus Be The Only Way To Heaven? “Jesus is the only way to heaven because he is the only Messiah and the only true king,” says Claribel, 10. At the time of Jesus’ birth, Caesar Augustus ruled the Roman world. He was considered divine during his lifetime and was called the Son of God. Before Rome ruled the world, a Greek named Alexander conquered much of the known world. On ancient coins that display Alexander the Great’s image, a ram’s horn protrudes from his head. The horns symbolize the Egyptian god Amun from whom Alexander claimed descent. Many coins from the ancient world contain the word “soter,” which means savior. Ancient rulers proclaimed themselves as saviors of their people. From this soup of deity claims comes Jesus, who lived in a small, backwater town where he toiled as a carpenter. His claim of deity stands in stark contrast to the power, glitz and glamour of mighty Roman emperors and Greek conquerors.
“Most if not all religions are religions of works like do this and you can go to heaven or be a good person and you can get to heaven,” says Enoch, 11. “Christianity is different because the Bible says, ‘There is none righteous, not even one,’” (Romans 3:10). “So God sent his son Jesus Christ to die for us (because we are sinful people) and was raised to life so that if we believe in him, we can go to heaven and be with God forever. This is why Jesus is the only way to heaven.” Notice the contrast between Jesus and other self-proclaimed saviors. Can you imagine an ancient Roman emperor offering to die for his people? They usually asked others to die by joining the Roman legions to fight their wars to amass more riches. Jesus’ mission and claims are unique. He didn’t come to offer a path to heaven through religious rules. Jesus said that our condition is too far gone for that. Religious efforts actually drive us further from God. We become proud of our improvements, real or imagined.
Jesus came to take the punishment we deserve by dying on the cross. The issue is life and death, not improvement. “God’s grace always, always, always comes as a contradiction to what makes natural sense to us,” writes author Tullian Tchividjian. “When God crosses the great divide from heaven to earth, from righteousness to sinfulness, He turns the spiritual economy of our business as usual upside down—which is to say, right side up.” Yes, the idea that eternal life is a gift to be received by faith alone in Christ alone contradicts all of our natural instincts. In this world, we usually earn our way. We impose earning upon God. We don’t realize that the gap between us and God is much greater than we imagine. We think we can reach heaven by our own efforts. “Jesus is the only way to heaven because he is righteous and true,” says Kaira, 10. “He is not fake. He is real. You can only go through Jesus to get to God.”
Think about this: Author C.S. Lewis said that Jesus is either a liar, a lunatic or God. He can’t be only a good person because a good man wouldn’t falsely claim to be God. Memorize this truth: “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me,’” (John 14:6). Ask this question: Have you trusted the Lord Jesus Christ as your only way to heaven? • __________________________________ Kids Talk About God is designed for families to study the Bible together. Research shows that parents who study the Bible with their children give their character, faith and spiritual life a powerful boost. To receive Kids Talk About God three times a week in a free, email subscription, visit www.KidsTalkAboutGod.org/email. COPYRIGHT 2023 CAREY KINSOLVING
Appreciating every day and every hour By Billy Holland
I have a good friend that is seriously ill with latestage cancer. When he was diagnosed about 2 years ago, he began to write and send a daily text thread to friends about his treatments, how he is doing, the weather, anything associated with astronomy, and a generous amount of philosophical thoughts. His personality is that of a thinker who appreciates the beauty of simple things. As I have read his thoughts and was allowed to see into his soul, it has been such a blessing and encouragement to see the good work that God has been doing in his life. He has gone through a lot more discomfort and challenges than we know. He has always been an optimistic person and now even in his difficult moments, his light of love and hope cannot be hindered. The Bible mentions in Psalm 91:1-2 about finding a secret place with God where nothing or no one can penetrate, disturb, or threaten. It is a refuge where even though the storms may be intense and the violence of spiritual warfare rages all around us; we are safe and at peace in His presence. When he writes about sitting next to the window in his recliner covered with several layers of blankets, those
Pleasant, Russell D. June 6, 1959 - January 27, 2023 FUNERAL SERVICE: Monday, February 6, 2023 at 10:30am at Salem Baptist Church, Omaha, NE INTERMENT at Omaha National Cemetery. Memorials directed to the family at GOOD SHEPHERD FUNERAL HOME-L STREET CHAPEL 4712 S. 82nd St. (402) 505-9260 www.gsfuneral.com God has the last Word
of us who are constantly on the go can hardly grasp the beauty of being still before God. When he allows us to enter into his world of simplicity with things such as watching the rabbits and squirrels running around the yard doing what they need to do to survive, we see the quiet analogy of how he is doing the same thing. He talks about the neighbor’s dogs and cats and how he imagines their daily routines or things like watching the snowflakes falling and how as a child he loved to try to catch them on his tongue. He often mentions the importance of community and how we need to care about each other and not be consumed with the fast pace of life that we forget to live. Humility, meekness, and an attitude of gratitude help prevent haughtiness from gaining control. And there is the frequent mention of the trinity as this is a reference to the awareness of God’s Spirit and the passionate desire to be in His will. To me, he is more than a survivor; he is a lighthouse. His lifestyle of sensitivity and compassionate lifestyle has always been a contrast from how the fast-paced world operates, and now that he has opened the door for us to get to know him on a more personal level, it’s the Lord that is reminding us what walking in His Spirit actually means. It’s fascinating to realize that when we are not feeling any pain and have the energy to do whatever we want, we do not think about what it would be like to be sick. When we hear about those who discover they have a terminal
disease, we are sad and say a prayer, then off we go back to our busy lives and the carousel of what we believe is important. It’s when WE receive a negative report that our merry-go-round comes to a stop. If there was ever a time in our lives to take the lantern of self-examination down the path into our soul, it would be then. When the distractions and clutter are removed we can make things right with everyone, especially God. Our perspective changes as our world is now different. Beyond the reality that God is the ultimate authority, this does not mean that we do not have the opportunity to make critical choices. We can allow the feelings of hopelessness and fear to dictate our minds and hold us in depression, or we can see the glass half full and be humble and thankful for all the blessings and good things that God has given to us throughout our lives. Instead of becoming bitter, we could invest our time into interceding for others. My friend has always loved kayaking and admiring the beauty of God’s nature. He looks forward to going this spring and always includes at the end of his posts that he will see us creek-side. He closes the thread the same way every day by encouraging everyone to find the stillness within God’s grace. His heart sings, he is grateful, and he is always wearing his sunglasses because God’s love and mercy is shining on him so brightly. • Read more about the Christian life at billyhollandministries.com
Celebration of Life For Marvel Marie Welch Marvel Marie Welch, age 80, of Goodyear, Arizona passed away on Thursday, December 22, 2022. Marvel was born to Robert Ashby and Kerneater Thompson on May 1, 1942, i.n Des Moines, Iowa, and attended public schools there, graduating from Lincoln High School in 1960. On August 18, 1960, Marvel married Granville Welch. Eventually they became parents of two boys, Cameron E. Welch and Grant E. Welch. The family moved to Minnesota in 1973, then to Omaha for 44 years, prior to settling in Arizona in 2019. Marvel was baptized into the Christian faith in 1967 at Union Baptist Church, Des Moines, and worshipped there as well as at Salem Baptist Church in Omaha. After years of part-time attendance, Marvel graduated in 1993 with a Bachelor of Professional Studies degree from Bellevue University, Omaha, Nebraska. She was an exceptional typist and was employed by several firms as an executive secretary. These included International Harvester Company, the State of Iowa, Pillsbury Company, Creighton University and Union Pacific Railroad. After serving five years as Affirmative Action Manager at Union Pacific, she retired in 2001. During her retirement years, Marvel was active in civic activities in Omaha and served as president of the National Council of Negro Women-Omaha Chapter for three years. Marvel had an enduring interest in family activities and in cooking, as well as in traveling; she visited over forty of the states and especially loved Arizona, California and Florida. Day in and day out, Marvel loved listening to and dancing to Motown music. Diana Ross was her queen. Marvel is survived by her husband, Granville E. Welch; two sons, Cameron E. Welch of Omaha and Grant E. Welch (Elaine Sallis) of Goodyear. She was blessed to have five siblings: Marvin Ashby of
Des Moines, deceased; Kevin D. Sanders of Des Moines; Kerneater R. Scott (Blake) of Des Moines; Alex Kennedy Zavier Tuigong (Shaina) of West Des Moines; and Willard Sanders Ill of Des Moines. Marvel had two granddaughters, Marleeia Welch of Tempe, AZ, and Precious Mills of Omaha; a greatgrandson, Ace Sneed; and many lovely extended family members and friends. Marvel is predeceased by her mother, Kerneater R. Ashby of Des Moines and her father, Robert Ashby of Des Moines.
Funeral Service
January 03, 2023 Visitation: 11 :00 a.m. Funeral Service: 12:00 p.m. Greenwood Memory Lawn Mortuary Rev. Cleveland Mitchell, Eulogist
Page Ten
THE OMAHA STAR
YOUTH/EDUCATION NEWS
February 3, 2023
A Night of Music at Nelson Mandela Mandela scholars in grades K, 2, and 4 participated in another successful violin concert on Friday, January 27. For Kindergarten scholars, this was their very first concert at Mandela. Parents and team members were proud to witness how hard the scholars have been working since they started learning violin in August. Catch videos of the concert on Nelson Mandela Elementary’s Facebook page. Scholars at Mandela play violin through the program String Sprouts, offered by the Omaha Conservatory of Music. Created by executive director Ruth Meints in 2013, Violin String Sprouts offers free violin classes to children ages 3-8 in underserved areas in the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro area. Fifth grade scholars who completed their Sprouts curriculum participate in orchestra. The String Sprouts curriculum was created specifically for kids. It uses unique compositions that are meant to keep kids excited to learn while also practicing basic music drills. There are play-along orchestrations, accompaniments, and videos to help with practice as well as variations that were created specifically for practice during the school day. Jessica Davis, an Omaha Conservatory of Music Artist-Faculty member, is the String Sprouts teacher at Nelson Mandela Elementary. •
