Omaha Star Newspaper, Vol. 84, Issue 14, July 8, 2022 by The Omaha Star

75 CENTS

Omaha Star

The

Proudly Serving Our Community for Over 80 Years

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. 84 - No. 14 Omaha, Nebraska

Friday, July 8, 2022

75 cents

Family of the Week: The Holmes Family

Photographer: KLL Photos, Kim Lofton

1972 began the Holmes Family Reunion and in 2022 this family celebrated the 50th Golden year of convening together and celebrating their LOVE one for the other. 92 family members from eighteen states were in Omaha for the weekend to celebrate their family’s legacy. The 1st generation in the early 1800’s were Phil and Joanne Holmes in Kemper County, Gholson, Mississippi. The 2nd generation was Gene Robert and Tryphene Holmes and the third generation are the children of Gene Robert and Tryphene. The late Ernest Otha Rush started the reunion tradition in 1972 and in 2022 his family was presented a plaque to honor him. Aunt Eva Holmes-Rush has preserved the family’s rich historical information about the early family. The Holmes family members can be found in the states of: California, Arizona, Colorado, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Tennessee, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, and Virginia.

Thomas Appointed to Heartland Workforce Solutions Board N o r t h End Teleservices, LLC (NET) announced Keisha Thomas, director of human resources, employee and community relations, was appointed to the Heartland Workforce Solutions board of directors in Omaha. “I am honored by this appointment and am looking forward to working with Keisha Thomas the board in continuing to develop a welcoming workforce in our region – just as we have done with NET,” Thomas said. Thomas, who says Omaha has characteristically low unemployment, added unemployment rates in Historically Underutilized Business Zones (HUBZones), such as where NET is located, remain higher than Omaha’s overall unemployment rate. “NET is changing the employment landscape,” Thomas

said. “We equip people to lead. We understand who people are and see everyone as individuals. We know the successful strategy of the organization is reliant upon the success of each person.” Thomas has been part of NET since the company’s founding by Carmen Tapio, CEO, North End Teleservices, LLC, nearly seven years ago. NET is in the top twopercent of employers nationwide, based on number of employees, according the U.S. Census Bureau. “One of my greatest pleasures is helping every member of our NET family discover their unique capabilities,” Thomas said. “We accomplish this by building incredibly diverse teams – connecting people with different skills and interests – and helping them stretch to reach their goals.” Thomas says NET’s mission is a “perfect fit” for what she and the Heartland Workforce Solutions’ board hope to accomplish for the region. “I’m very proud of what Heartland Workforce Solutions has planned in the upcoming year,” Thomas said, adding the Heartland Workforce Solutions mission “to promote Thomas continued on page 5

Events continued on page 5

By Terri D. Sanders

Yes, COVID-19 is yet still in our communities around the world. I have had the experience of being scheduled on flights that were cancelled recently and that was an adventure. More airports than I cared to see and getting to destinations in a round-about Dotcom Studios way; nowhere near the time I desired to arrive. I do realize it is no one’s direct fault, but an inconvenience never the less. If you have to take to the air for your next excursion, I have a few recommendations: • Make sure you have your cell number listed with the airlines so that you can receive a text message when your travel arrangements change. • Schedule yourself a couple of days out from when you actually need to arrive, especially if there is an event that is the reason for your travel.

Hungry men have no respect for law, authority, or human life. ~Marcus Garvey WE HAD THE DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS ABOUT THE VACCINE. IT WORKS. Facts at: douglascountyhealth.com/covid-19

My name is Bousaina Ibrahim and I am interning at the Omaha Star this summer. I will be graduating from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln this fall, with a journalism major and minors in English and African Studies. As someone who wishes to work as a journalist, my introduction to the field during my freshman year was traumatizing. I witnessed an esteemed Bousaina Ibrahim professor use a racial slur during my class, heard ignorant statements from my peers advocating for colorblindness, and rarely saw a representation of my community in the class curriculum or professors. Early in my college experience, I quickly realized that my dedication to documenting and sharing Black stories did not reflect my college’s expectations or my peers’ interests. I also realized I had to create my own path of storytelling. When I learned about the Omaha Star, I was in awe. In the city that I had grown to love so much, there was a Blackowned newspaper that was founded in 1938 by a Black woman, Ms. Mildred D. Brown. The Omaha Star was dedicated to providing the community with “good news”, contrary to the mainstream media’s racist projections of Black people. The Star also focuses on its archives on the Black communities that have lived in Omaha; throughout the country, not many newspaper publications portray a similar commitment to preserving Black history. When I first met Terri Sanders, the Omaha Star’s publisher, I was very grateful for how welcoming she was of me and my aspirations. As we sat in her office, surrounded by Ms. Brown’s vintage furniture that exuded comfort and history, I acquired a new wealth of knowledge that I needed. Black journalism is a necessity for our people because we can connect with our community and tell their stories through their own voices. In Black journalism, there is no threat of censoring or co-opting the Black experience. Since I was a child, I have loved writing and storytelling. It is a spiritual practice for me and being able to share the words, thoughts, and stories of my people are all important to me. My love for my Blackness and my community began at a young age as well, and I am blessed to see my two loves come together as an intern for the Omaha Star. The city is rich in history and is home t a vibrant community, and I am excited to continue to learn through my new position.

Publisher’s Pen

One Great Date TWO events One great date, August 26, 2022, The Mildred D Brown Memorial Study Center ( MDBMSC) is having its first golf tournament on at the Steve Hogan/ Miller Park Golf Course at 10AM. The MDBMSC was founded in 2007 to introduce students to the profession of Journalism. Since the organization was formed it has expanded to include the archiving of the Omaha Star Newspaper, scholarships for college aged students, and in 2019 the Omaha Star became a program of the MDBMSC. Our 501(c)(3) organization has grown and accomplished many of our goals. We are an economic driver in the community by providing printing and designing services in our offices. The 9-hole golf course will have a SCRAMBLE format and we are encouraging early-bird registrations by July 20, 2022. This is promising to be a fun golf

Summer Intern

• Dress comfortably • Watch what you eat and drink while enroute. You do not want to encounter that airplane toilet facility unless you have to… • Have your electronics in a carryon bag—you do not want those to get lost • Do you have CLEAR Travel? While it is not a service out of OMA, it is very efficient when you are in a major city going through security. It is like being a VIP with red carpet service—well worth the dollars if you travel more than once a quarter. • Do you have a KNOWN TRAVELER NUMBER (KTN) this is used for TSA, Pre Check, again a real timesaver from being in that security check line. • If you are not staying at Granny Jones’ house you should register for the hotel rewards programs, again well worth it. • Be sure to pack PATIENCE, it really comes in handy at the airport. Common sense is not all that common when you are being inconvenienced along with thousands of other travelers.

Democracy, like religion, never was designed to make...profits less. ~Zora Neale Hurston

Page Two

THE OMAHA STAR

THE OMAHA STAR, INC. THE VOICE OF THE BLACK COMMUNITY

Editorial and Business Office 2216 North 24th Street Phone: 402.346.4041

MAILING ADDRESS: PO Box 3393 Omaha, NE 68103

WEB ADDRESS:

www.theomahastar.com

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E-MAIL ADDRESS:

Terri D. Sanders - publisher@omahastarinc.com Business Hours: Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

THE CULTURE July 8, 2022 What in the world do you have on?

Now in 2022 with the advent of social media having proven its indelible effect on the world exposing countless global cultures to one another, the cultural homogenization is set in! Not only has the exchange of ideas, art, music, cuisine, and fashion taken place but also the corresponding proliferation of the promotion of “diversity and inclusion”. Norms have been shattered, palette’s have been educated, and considerations have been broadened! The social media phenomena was well proven during the pandemic as people all over the world took to the internet to stay in touch, share information, keep abreast of world events, meet new people, and of course traffic YouTube for new ways of cooking the same 10 things for two years lol. With this immersion into this virtual, global, and cultural exchange of sorts, fashion and style impressions have been

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

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

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

7312 N. 30th St.

Baker’s Supermarket

4405 N. 72nd St.

Big Mama’s Kitchen

2112 N. 30th St.

Chubb’s Finer Foods

2905 N. 16th St.

Cubby’s Old Market

601 S. 13th Street

Easy Drive

5124 N. 24th St.

Fair Deal Village Grocery Market

2118 N 24th St

Family Fare Supermarket

820 N. Saddle Creek Rd.

Family Fare Supermarket

7402 N. 30th St.

shared as well. We are living in a global society where regardless of how any of us feel about it, more and more goes. With that what used to be considered as style or fashion “leaps”, they have become the mundane! Men and women alike are taking global fashion cues from one another and even blending them together. Not to mention as immigration has increased here in America we’re seeing the global religious fashion staples influence Americans fashion and style…consciously and respectably we hope. All this was “said” to propose that you consider allowing all that has influenced you, impressed you, and inspired you throughout your life, to with those impressions develop a style all YOUR OWN. Think about how American iconography has used styling cues to bolster and support their celebrity…Sally Jesse Raphael, Steve Jobs, Neyo, Michael Jackson, Tupac, Slick Rick, Linda Hunt and the founder of this great newspaper Mildred Dee Brown to name just a few. What are YOUR unique styling signatures? Not for the purpose of emulation, but I too am finding what others have found I suppose. There’s a certain style T-shirt that looks best on me and there are a certain “cut” of pant(s) that are the most complimentary on me. I’m learning to double, triple, and quadruple down ( lol ) on these garments in varying colors and putting together what could be considered a uniform, much like the aforementioned persons above. I can predict what I’m going to look like in my clothes, thusly how I’m going to feel all day about how I look. The comfort, the confidence, and the personal embracing of the fact that this is me! Hey…and that is you…we see you!

Neighborhood Action and Fact Association meeting

Apply for a job that makes a difference.

The Neighborhood Action and Fact Association meeting has been scheduled for Saturday, July 9, 2022 at noon, 2424 Pratt Street. For additional information please contact Ella Willis 402-714-7644. The theme will be Christmas in July.

Join our team as a ReStore Retail Sales Associate or a Donations Driver.

–– ATTENTION ––

If you or someone you know worked with Gerald Leroy “Roy” Cook as a diesel mechanic in the 1950’s or 1960’s, please call Rebecca at Simmons Hanly Conroy toll-free at (855) 988-2537.

Apply at habitatomaha.org/about-us/careers

Great Plains Black History Museum 2221 N. 24th St. Hy-Vee Supermarket

5150 Center St.

Hy-Vee Supermarket

108th & Fort St.

Phil’s CASHSAVER A cost Plus Food Outlet

3030 Ames Ave.

Walgreens

3001 Dodge St.

Walgreens

7202 N. 30th St.

Walgreens

3005 Lake St.

Walgreens

2929 N. 60th St.

Walgreens

7151 Cass St.

Walgreens

6005 N. 72nd St.

Walgreens

225 N. Saddle Creek Rd.

Walgreens

1802 Galvin Road South, (Bellevue)

Youngblood’s Barbershop $40.00 IN TOWN

NON-REFUNDABLE

4011 Ames Ave $50.00 OUT OF TOWN

The Omaha Star

Is Your Paper GET YOUR MEMEBERSHIP TODAY! Phone: 402-346-4041

Name Address City/State/Zip Phone E-Mail address Mail To: The Omaha Star Newspaper PO BOX 3393 Omaha, NE 68103 Please include payment with order

You can also email Rebecca at rcockrell@simmonsfirm.com

Omaha Star Publishing Dates 2022 Month JANUARY

Info due

Pub Date

Theme

Focus

12/31/22 1/7/22 Economic Development Support Black Businesses 1/14/22 1/21/22 FEBRUARY 1/25/22 2/4/22 Black History Month Black History Facts 2/11/22 2/18/22 MARCH 2/25/22 3/4/22 Women’s History Salute to Women of Omaha 3/11/22 3/18/22 APRIL 3/25/22 4/1/22 Personal Finance Who is Your Financial Consultant 4/8/22 4/15/22 4/22/22 4/29/22 MAY 5/6/22 5/13/22 Writers / Authors Nebraska Authors 5/20/22 5/27/22 JUNE 6/3/22 6/10/22 Graduates High School / College Graduate / Professionals 6/17/22 6/24/22 JULY 7/1/22 7/8/22 Stem Code Like a Queen / King 7/15/22 7/22/22 AUGUST 7/29/22 8/5/22 Native Omahan’s Welcome Home 8/12/22 8/19/22 SEPTEMBER 8/26/22 9/2/22 Education Back to School 9/9/22 9/16/22 OCTOBER 9/23/22 9/30/22 Harvest Time Canning and Freezing 10/7/22 10/14/22 10/21/22 10/28/22 NOVEMBER 11/4/22 11/11/22 Gratitude Being Thankful 11/18/22 11/25/22 DECEMBER 12/2/22 12/9/22 Self Care Caring For You 12/16/22 12/23/22 12/30/22 1/6/23 www.theomahastar.com 402-346-4041 PO Box 3393 Omaha, NE 68103 publisher@omahastarinc.com

COMMENTARY THE OMAHA STAR Page Three Nebraska prisons restrict book access, community rises up to help

July 8, 2022

Bousaina Ibrahim Summer Intern Books have always offered readers an escape from their reality, but within the walls of Nebraska prisons, they bring new meaning to liberation. Incarcerated people in Nebraska are given limited access to their facility’s library, and restrictions lessen the selection of books offered. Nebraska has the second most overcrowded prison system in the nation, and only five of the 10 facilities have formal libraries. But several Lincoln and Omaha organizations hope to bridge the gap between imprisonment and education. The Lincoln Prison Book Project started out of the racial justice protests in the summer of 2020. Lead organizer Maggie Wallace said she felt helpless and wanted to be more active in her community. Still, she wanted to address somehow the ideas of prison and police reform highlighted by the movement. Wallace and two other community organizers began by collecting book donations from the Lincoln community and shipping them to the prison’s central office. From there, books were examined front to back to ensure they were qualified to enter the prison libraries. Wallace said she noticed a limited and dated genre of books being sent in, so they switched to accepting donations. They began collaborating with the prison librarians in an effort to send books that were requested by incarcerated people. Wallace now works with the libraries at the Omaha Correctional Center and the York Correctional Center for

Women to get book wish lists from prisoners. “I’m happy that we are able to reach incarcerated people in this way. I know the books we order are sent to the libraries and they do arrive and I’m super grateful that is able to happen. Because if it were up to the people in charge, there would be no access to education,” Wallace said. Hoping to expand the outreach of the project, Wallace reached out to local bookstores for help. Francie and Finch, a bookstore in downtown Lincoln, quickly joined the initiative in February. The bookstore owner, Leslie Huerta, was inspired by the project after trying to help customers send books to incarcerated loved ones. But Huerta said sending books directly to people inside isn’t easy. The prison restricts the quality and content of the books accepted. Huerta said some are understandable, such as no books with violent content that can pose a security threat or no metal or spiral bindings. But others raise some questions, including the restriction on textbooks older than two years. “It just seems like a very effective way to keep incarcerated people uneducated. Most of the books we read in college weren’t even close to that recent,” Huerta said. Huerta’s collaboration with the Lincoln Prison Book Project has been vital to ensuring that prisoners receive a variety of books despite the restrictions. As an established bookstore, Francie and Finch has been able to facilitate purchasing and sending books directly from the publisher.

The books are brand new and haven’t been opened; Huerta said this ensures that they will be accepted into the prisons and distributed to the Omaha and York libraries. “Reading liberates people in so many different ways. It could be learning to uplift themselves, but it could just be escaping too. A lot of the books from the wish lists are just good reads and good stories. Books make a difference,” Huerta said. Wallace and Huerta both encourage community members interested to follow this link and donate to their cause. In Omaha, organizing for incarcerated people has a strong and historical network. Black and Pink, founded in 2005, pushes to educate incarcerated members. When it comes to connecting with incarcerated people, Black and Pink have been able to reach over 19,000 subscribers through its free monthly newsletter since 2010. The 50-page magazine contains relevant information about incarcerated members, including contributions from fellow prisoners, legal rights, current events, and a calendar for those in solitary confinement. The organization centers on advocacy and support for those affected by the criminal punishment system, specifically LGBTQ+ people and people living with HIV/AIDS. The organization has multiple programs, including free housing and food through their Lydon House, a re-entry program that targets transgender women of color, and a youth program for identity and character development. Andrea Kszystyniak, the member support coordinator, Ibrahim continued on page 5

o-pa.org/miller

Opening performance begins 5:30 PM immediately following Mandela-fest

nate bray

& the soul supremes IN PARTNERSHIP WITH MANDELA-FEST

Saturday, July 16 7:30 PM

Page Four

THE CULTURE/LOCAL NEWS “Rockin’ Rampage” VBS at Zion Baptist Church

THE OMAHA STAR

Pastor Kenneth Allen and the Zion Baptist Church family invite you to come out and share with them in an exciting four days of Vacation Bible School. The dates for VBS this year are MondayThursday, July 18 through July 21, 2022. The VBS theme is “Rockin Rampage!”

(Trusting God Through Life’s Ups and Downs). This theme is based on Psalm 20:7, “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.” Sessions will begin each evening in the Fellowship Hall of Zion Baptist Church,

with registration and a light meal starting at 5:00 P.M. until 5:45 P.M. Everyone will then report for classes which will begin at 6:00 P.M. and end at 8:30 P.M. nightly. We have classes for all ages, from preschool to adults, plus arts & crafts and other outside games and activities. Please

July 8, 2022

come out and join us for what we know will be a very exciting and Spirit-filled week. For transportation and more information, call the Zion Baptist Church office at 402-346-1502. Official office hours are Tuesday-Friday, 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

Omaha Juneteenth Parade The Lord provided a bright, hot, sunny morning. Workers gathered early amidst television cameras, registration tables and excited anticipation. Such was the beginning of the 2022 version of North Omaha’s Juneteenth Parade. It was a great and enjoyable event for our community! As President of the sponsoring organization, the Omaha NAACP, I want to thank our North Omaha community for your support of the parade. Thanks to all of the organizations that registered, walked, and participated in the parade. Thanks to all of those who attended, sat, shade or sunshine, and supported the parade. Honestly after a two-year hiatus we were uncertain as to enthusiasm for the parade. But you turned out in a big way! We offer thanks to the parade committee and chairwoman Frankie J. Williams who all worked so hard to organize, strategize and execute our event in such a brief time

(2 month’s). And extra special thanks to this year’s sponsors. They were Children’s Hospital, Lincoln Financial Group, North End Teleservices, Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance, and the Baptist Pastors and Ministers Conference. We were fortunate to have judges for the Drill team competition that represented Elks Drill teams past. We will award trophies for the winning drill teams at the July NAACP general meeting July 23, 12:00 noon at the Mt. Moriah Heritage Center. This being the first parade managed by this newly elected NAACP administration, we certainly learned lessons. So, we plan to make changes next year to make 2023 bigger and better. Thanks for an awesome start! Pastor T. Michael Williams, President Omaha NAACP

Financial Tips from Veridian Successfully manage your student loans

According to studentloanhero.com, about 46 million Americans have student loan debt. If you’re one of them, you should have a plan to pay it down. Before you plan, key details to understand include: • How many loans you have. • Each loan’s interest rate. • The grand total you owe.

What are the payment options? Once you start paying back your loans, you should know your payment options. Some are: • Standard: Pay a fixed monthly amount throughout your repayment period. • Graduated: Start with lower monthly payments that increase over time. • Income-driven: Factors like your existing debt and income determine your monthly payment. But first, you must know where you are in the loan process. If you’re still in school, you may be able to estimate your future payment

amounts. If you’ve already graduated, you may have a six-month grace period before you start paying, but you’ll need to check with your lender. What’s the difference between loan deferment and forbearance? In some cases, you may be able to pause your payments with deferment or forbearance. These are similar but have different requirements and impact your loan balance in different ways. Deferment is when your payments are paused and do not accrue interest. This usually happens while you are still in school or within your grace period after graduation when you are still looking for employment. Forbearance also allows you to pause your payments, but continues to accrue interest, which is then applied to your balance. Payment and consolidation options Once you have your payment plan ironed out, there are several tips to help minimize the overall amount you will pay throughout your repayment period. 1. Make principal-only payments when you can.

This reduces the amount of interest you pay over the life of the loan. 2. Set up automatic payments. Many lenders offer interest rate discounts for this. 3. Pay off loans with higher interest first to reduce your future monthly payment. 4. Once you pay off higher-interest loans, apply those payment amounts to other loans. 5. Combine your private and federal debt into a single loan with a lower interest rate and monthly payment. Read the terms to ensure you don’t extend your repayment period or pay more interest over time. If you consolidate, you may lose your right to loan deferment in the future. Successful repayment starts with a solid plan, and that starts with understanding your debt. Contact your loan provider to discuss your repayment options. If you could use some financial advice, Veridian is here to help. We’re a notfor-profit credit union with branches in Council Bluffs, Omaha and Papillion. Simply call (800) 2353228 and ask to speak to Alexandra to schedule a one-on-one consultation today.

Duchesne Academy seeks motivated and positive leaders for the following positions: • Chief Financial Officer • Food Program Manager • Director of Diversity Equity and Inclusion • Varsity Volleyball Coach Qualified candidates may send their resume and a cover letter to hr@duchesneacademy.org

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s isn’t easy. Reaching us is.

If you care for someone with Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss or dementia, you are not alone. We’re here day or night — whenever you need us — offering reliable information and support. Free 24/7 Helpline: 800.272.3900 Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregiver Center: alz.org/care

COMMENTARY

July 8, 2022

THE OMAHA STAR

Ibrahim continued from page 3

said getting the newsletters into prisons is easier than books. “Technically, we are the publisher of the newsletter so we are able to get around that restriction. But there’s been times our magazine was sent back for really arbitrary reasons; it really depends on who is reading the mail,” Kszystyniak said. As an organization that targets LGBTQ incarcerated people, as well as those living with HIV/AIDS, Kszystyniak said their material poses a threat to the structures of the prison system. Their newsletters focus on the safety of the LGBTQ community inside, as well as lack and Pink also offers a national pen pal program, where thousands are paired with incarcerated members to build relationships and offer those inside a support network outside of prison. Kszystyniak said they have a pen pal, and through their letters, they learned about the lack of diverse books in the prisons’ libraries. “There’s not really any radical literature in there, and I think that’s pretty intentional. I think it’s all about keeping people in a place where they cannot advocate for themselves,” Kszystyniak said. But Kszystyniak is hopeful, and they said Nebraska’s community can help those who are inside by simply engaging at their comfort level. Whether it is reading the newsletter and consuming something written by someone incarcerated or engaging in the organization’s holiday card program, Kszystyniak said active engagement will work against the efforts to erase imprisoned people. At the RISE program, the incarcerated and formerly incarcerated collaborate to create a nurturing environment for entrepreneurial, familial, and personal growth. The program consists of a six month in-prison program and a re-entry program focused on reconnecting families, ensuring job and home security, and helping foster mental and emotional well-being. Fred Collins, the program’s data specialist, recalls the help the program offered when he was incarcerated for seven years at the Omaha Correctional Center.

Collins graduated from the in-prison program in 2017 and upon his release in 2019, the RISE program offered Collins job readiness, housing, and hope, he said. “The organization made sure I transitioned well and gave me opportunities to grow. And I’m very thankful for them. They helped me deal with issues of the past and made sure I would get myself out of that cycle,” Collins said. During his incarceration, Collins remembers the limited selection of books at his facility, but he said he noticed how the librarians worked hard with their resources. Collins worked at his facility’s library for some time, and he said the facility was inadequately staffed. Nebraska prisons have faced staffing shortages for several years now, but Collins explains that conflict has risen after the 2020 racial protests and continued lack of governmental support. This has led to an increase in lockdowns, where access to the library becomes slim or completely restricted. “The more lockdowns we had, the less time in the library we got. Typically, the library would open at about eight in the morning and close by 10:45 a.m. It would then start back up from 12:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. and then that was it for the day,” Collins said. Collins said books offer him and others an essential way of selfreflection, whether it’s on business ideas or spiritual guidance. He hopes that the prison system realizes how important it is to offer consistent library access to incarcerated people. Collins said books can give prisoners an opportunity to improve themselves. Malcolm X, who was born in Omaha, and the time he spent in prison offers a significant example of how the solitude of prison was the first place where he and others could just sit, think, and read. For many like him, it was difficult to carve out community-centered spaces for intellectual life outside of academia. It is important that we continue to cultivate these spaces and provide resources for those inside, in an effort to free them.

Thomas continued from page 1

and develop a workforce system that is responsive to the needs of business and career seekers resulting in economic prosperity” is “invaluable.” North End Teleservices, LLC continues to add to the region’s job-growth trend, with ongoing workforce opportunities, employee upskilling and continued economic prosperity in the heart of North Omaha. “Hiring in our dynamic region is a pleasure,” Thomas said. “I am delighted to extend my skills to the Heartland Workforce Solutions board.” Events continued from page 1

event. We are partnering with The Heart Ministry Center from our community and enhancing the golf event with a BBQ Contest with cash prizes. Lunch for the tournament will be the result of the BBQ Contest. If you are interested in showing off your culinary grill expertise please contact Paul at The Heart Ministry Center.

PASSIONATE ABOUT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT?

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

opportunity.nebraska.gov

What is the City of Omaha doing to protect you from lead in soil? Soil Testing

Soil Removal

Replacement of Soil & Grass

Paint & Dust Assessment

2 1

4 3

The City of Omaha tests soil in yards within the OLS to see if they have unsafe levels of lead.

The City of Omaha removes the contaminated soil and disposes of it safely according to EPA standards.

The City of Omaha replaces the yard with clean soil and sod.

If eligible, homeowners may also qualify for an interior dust and exterior paint assessment.

ALL TESTING AND CLEAN-UP ACTIVITIES ARE ZERO COST TO HOMEOWNERS! Where are we now, and what can you do? If you know a residential yard that has not been tested for lead, please encourage residents to call the City of Omaha Lead Information Office at 402.731.3045 so their yard can be tested. If your own yard has unsafe levels of lead, the City of Omaha will also test the exterior paint of your home to see if you qualify for paint stabilization too.

To see if a property has had their soil tested for lead, visit OMAHALEAD.ORG

More resources for lead in Omaha 402.731.3045 The City of Omaha Lead Information Office For yard testing and clean-up information. 402.444.7825 Douglas County Health Department For questions about lead poisoning, and childhood lead screening, elevated blood lead case management, and home inspections. GotLead.org For general information on lead in Omaha.

Page Five

LOCAL NEWS/THE CULTURE July 8, 2022 Avenue Scholars Students Graduate From Boot Camp Programs

Page Six THE OMAHA STAR

Avenue Scholars, an Omaha-based education and workforce development program that ensures careers for students of hope and need, has concluded its 2022 Boot Camps and is pleased to celebrate the graduation of 58 students from 10 area high schools, including Millard South, Millard North, Omaha Benson, Omaha Bryan, Omaha North, Omaha Northwest, Omaha South, Papillion LaVista, Ralston, and Westside. "The Avenue Scholars Boot Camp is a wonderful opportunity for high school students to learn new skills in the areas of IT, business and the trades," said Mike Alvano, COO/CFO at Avenue Scholars. "This is the second year that we have offered the boot camps and the number of students involved has grown substantially, showing the level of interest and need for a summer program like this one. I am so proud of our staff, the students and our business partners, who have all worked together to make this a successful endeavor." The boot camp program aims to provide high school

students in the Avenue Scholars program with the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of specific career field, while building the necessary skills to be successful in one of those industries. In partnership with Metropolitan Community College (MCC) and over 30 local businesses, the program offers immersive career exploration experiences. Students had the opportunity to choose a four-week boot camp in business, information technology, or the trades, depending on their career interest. Each student who is a part of the boot camp program has received the opportunity to earn a $500 stipend for their participation. “I started boot camp because in the summer I have nothing to do, and I wasn’t going to get a job until next year so I thought I should go to boot camp to learn about the business industry. I have always wanted to be a businesswoman,” said Angela Ayika, a student at Westside High School. “When I started boot camp, not only did I feel like I was going to learn about business, but I felt like I was home. Not only are we learning about an industry, it’s an experience like having a job because when we graduate from the boot camp program we take away $500 to use for college or other expenses. We had great speakers that we could look up to and call to ask advice. Boot camp is preparing us for the future, so we aren’t as nervous going to our first job.” “I enjoy the boot camps because they give the students a background in construction through the trades,” said Bob Cote, an instructor at the Construction Boot Camp.

“They learn about the trade unions and the MCC programs as well as certain skills. When they graduate, they have 3 options for finding a job: furthering their education through a trade union, taking classes at MCC or just going straight to a job. The boot camp helps prepare them for the future.” In honor of these students, Avenue Scholars will be holding a graduation ceremony on June 30th at 10:30am at Metropolitan Community College Fort Omaha Campus. The ceremony will include a commencement address by Catherine Lang, State Director of the Nebraska Business Development Center as well as comments by one student from each of the boot camps. About Avenue Scholars Founded in 2008 by a group of Omaha philanthropists, Avenue Scholars, the leader in bridging the gap between education and business, guarantees careers for its youth of hope and need through supportive relationships, individualized coaching, education, and training. Avenue Scholars provides comprehensive, individualized support services to help Omaha-area students from low-income backgrounds identify, prepare for, and ultimately enter financially sustaining, high-demand careers requiring an associate degree or less. The program also provides grant assistance to enable participating students to continue their postsecondary education/training at Metropolitan Community College via support provided through the Suzanne & Walter Scott Foundation and Metropolitan Community College.

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Page Seven

Kids Talk About God:

How Do You Sense God’s Presence?

By Carey Kinsolving and Friends

Marlin Oliver Briscoe Jr. was born on Sept. 10, 1945, in Oakland, Calif. His parents, Marlin and Geneva Briscoe, moved to Omaha when he was young. Raised by his mother, who worked in a school cafeteria, he grew up in a multiethnic housing project that sat in the shadow of a meat packing plant and that produced other sports stars, among them Bob Gibson and Gale Sayers. He attended Omaha South High School. Briscoe at the now the University of Nebraska Omaha and though he was relatively small at 5-foot10 and 175 pounds, he was an excellent passer and runner and a natural leader. As a quarterback he set 22 school records, including for passing yards (5,114) and touchdowns (53). He was selected by the Broncos in the 14th round of the pro football draft in 1968, but the team intended to use him as a defensive back. Briscoe understood how difficult it would be to change his coach’s mind. He told that he would sign as a defensive back if Lou Saban gave him a tryout as a quarterback during training camp, in front of fans and reporters. He wanted to demonstrate his skills. “I think they just did it to pacify me,” he told The Los Angeles Times in 2000. “I knew that the powers that be in 1968 would be fearful of a Black quarterback.” Saban played down Briscoe’s throwing and running skills, Briscoe said, and dispatched him to work with the defensive backs. Still, Briscoe said, he had let people know that “a Black man could think and throw.” A hamstring injury kept him from playing early in the season, but on Sept. 29, with Saban suddenly finding himself in need of a quarterback, Briscoe was called to fill in for the struggling starter, Jim Leclair, and Briscoe nearly led the team to a comeback victory over the Boston (now New England) Patriots. Saban offered only a lukewarm assessment of the performance, but the next week Briscoe nevertheless became the first Black starting quarterback in AFL history, against the Cincinnati Bengals; he was replaced in the second half by Steve Tensi in a 10-7 victory. In one of his biggest games, against the Dolphins on Oct. 27, Briscoe took over for Tensi, after Tensi had thrown three interceptions, and rallied the Broncos to a 21-14 win. He had two rushing touchdowns, including one that put the Broncos in front for good. For the 5-9 Broncos, Briscoe passed for 1,589 yards, threw 13 interceptions and had a 2-3 record as a starter. After his playing career, he became a financial broker, but in the late 1970s he became addicted to cocaine. In the next decade he lived on the streets for a while; was kidnapped by drug dealers, who tossed him out of a car in a dispute over a drug debt; and gave his Super Bowl rings to a banker for collateral on a loan. (The banker sold them.) On Jan. 31, 1988, Briscoe was serving a prison sentence for drug possession when he watched Williams lead Washington to victory in Super Bowl XXII. Briscoe had a storage business and worked for a Boys & Girls Club in the Los Angeles area as a fund-raiser and assistant project manager. In addition to his daughter Angela, he is survived by another daughter, Rebecca Briscoe. He was married and divorced three times.

THE OMAHA STAR

“You should always read the Bible when you’re bored or don’t want to play,” says Katy, age 8. “God is always around you whatever you do. If you were sad, God will still be with you.” Most people, and especially children, would never think of reading the Bible when bored or sad. We go for entertainment, recreation or food. Katy, if you can see boredom or sadness as a signal to read the Bible, you are wise beyond your years. One of the best ways to sense God’s presence is to look for him in providential circumstances. We should live life the way we read a good mystery novel, looking for clues. We know that God is always at work. Our challenge lies in tuning our spiritual senses to what he is doing in any situation. “I sense God’s presence when I feel cared about and loved,” says Alan, 10. “But during the bad times, it’s hard. The only way I can do it is to put a Bible in my hand. It is great to have God’s light in dark places.” In a great trial, it’s easy to start a pity party. We think our problems are unique and no one understands. Think again, says the Apostle Paul: “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it” (I Corinthians 10:13). When temptation comes, God will provide an escape; however, you have to take it. If you’re a diabetic with an addiction to chocolate, your escape might be to avoid going

into the candy store at the mall. Saturate your mind with Bible promises and examples of how heroes and heroines of the faith have faced great temptations and overcome. After experiencing combat, a young Winston Churchill said, “Nothing in life is so exhilarating as to be shot at without result.” Coming through a great trial successfully can greatly boost your confidence in God, as you sense his presence under fire. Everyone wants to live in that place of triumph where we proclaim boldly, “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31). “I remember one time, I was hurting very badly inside,” recalls Cecile, 10. “My grandfather had just died. I thought I couldn’t go on. I thought of this verse: ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’” (Philippians 4:13). “After remembering that verse, I sensed God’s presence. After that, I was able to have God’s presence without thinking of my grandfather’s death.” Who could be afraid of death when the great Shepherd is walking by your side as promised in Psalm 23:4? Ashley, 10, also lost her grandfather, but says: “I definitely sensed God then. I was sad that I would not see him again, but I was happy he was in heaven.” Ashley can receive even more comfort from knowing she’ll be reunited with her grandfather in the next life, where death will no longer intrude. Think about this: We can’t control the nature or the timing of our trials, but we can control what we do before a crisis hits. Memorize this truth: I Corinthians 10:13, quoted above. Ask this question: If we don’t nurture a sense of God’s presence during the good times, do you think we’ll experience his presence during the bad?

Arlen Jay Bates August 17, 1955 AD- June 26, 2022 AD

Was born in Omaha, NE August 17, 1955 to Arnold Lee Gunn and Darlene Joyce Bates. At age 66, Arlen Jay died Sunday, June 26, 2022 in North Little Rock, AR. Arlen Jay grew up attending Zion Baptist Church along with his siblings and his Mama, where he was baptized in Arlen Bates 1962 at the age of 7 years. Young Arlen always attended Sunday school and sang in the choirs of Zion. He was a graduate of Omaha Central High School, and honorably served in the United States Air Force. Arlen Jay was preceded in death by his maternal Grandparents, Dorothy and O.C. Ellis, his father Arnold

Gunn, and Step-Father, Raymon Webster. Arlen Jay will long be missed and remembered by his beloved wife of 38 years, Margaret A. Bates, four children, Michael, Aeren, Arlah, and Alaya; Loving Mama, Darlene Webster; siblings; Elayne, Dorothy (Melvin), Phillip (Carmen), Leonard (Taji), Scott, Mayimuna, Ayana (John), Reginald, and other loving siblings; Granddaughter, Ayden, and a host of loving nephews, nieces, family, and friends. Funeral Service: Friday, July 8, 2022 at Zion Baptist Church 2215 Grant St. Omaha, NE 68110 Visitation: 9:30 a.m. Homegoing 10:30 a.m. Delayed Burial: Monday, July 11, 2022 at 10 a.m. from Zion Baptist Church to Omaha National Cemetery In lieu of flowers, a contribution in Arlen J. Bates’ memory and honor can be made to Zion Baptist Church Sunday School Ministry 2215 Grant St. Omaha, NE 68110.

Trinity Episcopal Church celebrates PRIDE Mass Trinity Episcopal Cathedral invites the LGBTQ+ community and allies to the church’s first annual Pride Mass, a special worship service designed to celebrate and promote the full inclusion of LGBTQ+ people in the life of the church. The Mass will be held on Wednesday, July 13 at 7:00 PM, and will feature Broadway musical songs sung by the Trinity Cathedral Choir and the River City Mixed Chorus. The order of service will use the Book of Common Prayer Expansive Language text, an adaptation of the liturgy approved by the Episcopal Church that limits gendered language in an effort to be more inclusive in worship. Alexander J. Hoefling, Trinity’s Music Minister, has done much of the planning to make the Pride Mass possible. “In a world where Christianity has historically rejected and marginalized LGBTQ+ people,

we want this service to provide a safe space for people to worship God regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity. Trinity Cathedral is committed to welcoming, affirming, and loving the LGBTQ+ community,” says Hoefling. Br. James Dowd, OSB, will preach at this special service. Br. James is the Prior of Incarnation Monastery and The Benedictine Way, a monastic community in North Omaha. Passionate about the intersection of social justice and contemplative life, Br. James says of the Pride Mass, “We want to let people know that God loves you as you are, that God made you as you are, and that this church affirms and accepts you as you are.” The Pride Mass communicates a message of hope despite our nation’s current challenges and fears. “More people than ever right now are being shut out, ignored, and treated as second class citizens,” says

The Very Rev. Vanessa E. B. Clark, Dean of Trinity Cathedral, “this is exactly the time when the church is most called to stand with those that society has marginalized.” In addition to the Pride Mass, Trinity Cathedral and other Omahaarea Episcopal Churches will have a booth at the Pride Festival on July 16. They invite festival-goers to stop by, grab some candy and goodies, and learn about local Episcopal Churches. Trinity Cathedral is located downtown at the corner of 18th and Capitol Avenue (113 North 18th Street, Omaha, NE 68102). You can visit their website at www.trinityepiscopal.org for more information about Trinity, or visit www.dioneb.org to learn about the Episcopal Diocese of Nebraska. Information about the Heartland Pride Parade, Festival, and other events in Omaha can be found at www.heartlandpride.org.

Land of the free because of the brave

By Rev. Billy Holland Every summer we look forward to July fourth because it’s filled with fun things to do, like barbecuing, picnics, games, family gatherings, camping, and fireworks. And of course, for many it’s a paid holiday which is always nice. However, along with the celebrations, there is also a solemn awareness of those who have served and sacrificed for our country so that we can enjoy our freedom. Independence Day focuses on the courage of many Americans who fought against Great Britain in the Revolutionary War and with much blood-shed declared the victory and helped establish this great nation. On July fourth, 1776, the Second Continental Congress, meeting in Philadelphia, declared the sovereignty of the United States of America as they signed the Declaration of Independence which is recognized as our nations birthday. There is a moving account of a young man who was a soldier in this war and in every sense of the word defines the meaning of a true American hero. Nathan Hale of Coventry, Connecticut was born in 1755 and grew up to be a highly educated and handsome young man who had every prospect for a happy and fulfilling life. Those who knew him commented on his love for sports, his kindness and strong Christian convictions. As tension increased about a possible conflict with the British, Nathan like many other enthusiastic young men, joined a local militia and was quickly advanced to the rank of sergeant. When the war officially became a reality, many chapters of Connecticut militia rushed to Massachusetts to help their neighbors during the Siege of Boston but Hale was

unsure whether to join these forces or to wait and see what would unfold. He was a young professional teacher that had a lot to lose especially with not being clear about what was happening. In early July 1775, Nathan received a heartfelt letter from his best friend, Benjamin Tallmadge who had seen the war firsthand and was now relaying about the situation. Tallmadge told Nathan that teaching school was truly noble but at this time it was critical to consider the responsibility of defending this glorious country. The day after receiving this letter, Nathan Hale resigned his teaching position and became dedicated to the call of duty. When George Washington reorganized the army in January, 1776, Nathan received a captain’s commission where he spent six months helping to build fortifications and preparing for the inevitable battle for Manhattan Island. Early in September 1776, Washington formed an elite, green beret-type group of New England Rangers and Hale was soon invited to command one of the four companies whose mission was forward reconnaissance. Washington desperately needed to know the probable site of the upcoming British invasion and the best way to obtain this pivotal information was to send a spy behind enemy lines. This was extremely dangerous and guess who volunteered? It is not verified exactly how Hale was captured but we know he was immediately brought for questioning before the British commander, General William Howe. Intelligence information was found on Nathan and since this was not in code or invisible ink, he was irrevocably Holland continued on page 10

PRAISE & WORSHIP DIRECTORY

Page Eight THE OMAHA STAR

ALLEN CHAPEL A.M.E.

KING SOLOMON MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

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

Rev. Jacqueline Ford

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

July 8, 2022 ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CATHOLIC CHURCH 2423 Grant St. Omaha, NE 68111 Ph: 402-348-0631 • Fax 402-342-4451 Sunday Mass: 9:00 a.m. Reconciliation: Sunday after Mass or by appointment

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

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kingsolomonbaptist@yahoo.com kingsolomonomaha.org

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

Rev. Michael Voithofer

ABLAZE HOUSE OF PRAYER

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SACRED HEART CATHOLIC CHURCH Fr. Dave Korth

Drs. Martin & Lynnell Williams Founders & Lead Pastors

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

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

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

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Bishop Kevin Chambers

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

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Weekly Services Sunday Morning Worship Service .....................8:30 a.m. & 11:30 a.m. Children’s Church (2nd & 4th Sunday) ................8:30 a.m. & 11:30 a.m. Life Development (Sunday School) .........................................10:15 a.m. Wednesday Word and Worship (WWW) ................................ 6:30 p.m.

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

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

CLAIR MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

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

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

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Pastor Barbara Mitchell Rev. T. Michael Williams

Dr. Ralph B. Lassiter

Elder Howard Dixon

MT. MORIAH MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

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

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

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In Person Service 11:30 am and LIVE on Facebook

Wednesday Night LIVE on Facebook 6:30 pm Friday Night LIVE on Facebook 7:00 pm

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

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

Rev. Morita Truman

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

Pastor Kenneth A. Allen

Pastor Terry L. Arvie

Sunday Morning Worship ...................................9:00 a.m. Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting .....................7:00 p.m. Wednesday Night Church School ......................7:30 p.m. Youth/Children Ministry Focus (Wed.) ............7:30 p.m.

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

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

HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH

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

THE WORSHIP CENTER

“Where CHRIST is Preeminent and the Word Prevails!”

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

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

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

Pastor Brian Page

JOY OF LIFE MINISTRIES COGIC

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

Pastors Eric and Cynthia Butler

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

6401 N. 56th Street Omaha, NE 68104 Ph: 402-399-9628 E-Mail: Jolpastor@aol.com Sunday School..........................9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship......................10:30 a.m. Sunday Evening Worship.......6:00 p.m. Wednesday Night ....................7:00 p.m. Bible Study and Youth Ministries

PLEASANT GREEN BAPTIST CHURCH

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

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

Dr. Stan Rone Senior Pastor

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

BUSINESS BITES/CLASSIFIEDS THE OMAHA STAR Page Nine Annuities-Not for Everyone and Maybe not for You

July 8, 2022

Most investors think or are led to believe that an annuity is an investment; it is not. What it actually is an insurance contract. What happens is you give the insurance company a sum of money and they promise to return it to you in the form of regular payments over time which begin immediately or at some time in the future. The payments into the annuity can be made in regular amounts over years or in one lump sum. Putting money into an annuity is known as the accumulation phase. When the insurance

By Michael L. Green Over the years I’ve written a number of articles about annuities. It’s a topic that I revisit from time-to-time for good reason. They are one of the most misunderstood and often misused financial products in our profession. The reason for this is that most people don’t ask themselves a couple basic questions before putting their money into one. Exactly what is an annuity? How does it fit into my overall financial plan?

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company starts making payments back to you this is the decumulation period or annuitization phase. The thing that many people are mislead by is the concept of and the word guarantee. Insurance sales people often sell investors by pushing the idea of a guarantee against stock market risks. This can and usually is very misleading. The fact is insurance companies invest your money in the very same markets that Green continued on page 10

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YOUTH/EDUCATION NEWS Join us for Mandela Fest 2022!

Page Ten THE OMAHA STAR

July 8, 2022

Green continued from page 9

Nelson Mandela Elementary will celebrate Mandela Fest once again on Saturday, July 16, 2022 from 2:00-5:00pm at Miller Park in North Omaha, with special events happening before the main event. There will be a bike parade beginning at 9:30am and a kickball tournament with the Black Police Officers Association at 1:00pm. The entire day is a family-friendly, community event that celebrates the birthday of Nelson Mandela and the scholars and family of the elementary school. In the afternoon, there will be food trucks, bounce houses, music, special performances by the Mandela scholars and more. Tickets for the food trucks are $5.00 and are good for one meal. The school hasn’t been able to host this celebration since 2019 due to concerns about the pandemic. They are eager to welcome families and the community back. Masks are not required at this event.

they tell you are too risky. They then cap the investment returns that they credit to your account and keep the rest. More on that in the future. As I said above, an annuity is not an investment, but a contract between you and the insurance company. By and large they are sold by salespeople who work for the company. Those salespeople are paid a very generous commission for getting you to sign on the dotted line; as high as 7-8%. So, if you buy a $100,000 annuity, the person who sold it to you will likely be paid $7-$8000.00. (BTW, if you want to make a sales person nervous ask them what and how exactly they’re paid.) And that’s not the end of the costs/expenses you’ll incur such as: Administrative fees Annual maintenance fees Heavy surrender fees if you ever want to get out of the contract. Guarantee fees Mortality fees, and more depending on the features you may be sold.

Human Tugboat Charles Jackson French Recognized for Acts of Heroism in World War Two An Omaha family has finally seen their relative rightfully recognized and honored for his heroic actions during World War II. Navy Petty Officer Charles Jackson French will have the Benson Post Office located at 6223 Maple Street named in honor of him, after Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), led the fight in Congress to pass his bill H.R. 4168, making the name change. In addition, French was posthumously honored with the Navy and Marine Corps Medal and the training pool at the Naval Base in San Diego named for him, following a letter sent by Bacon to the Secretary of the Navy asking for a for a review of French’s records. “French embodies true American valor and patriotism. Dedicating a post office in his name allows Nebraskans and other Americans to remember his story of heroism,” said Bacon. “Despite the bigotry of the era, and his willingness to sacrifice his life to save others represents the very best of America. I thank Senator Fischer and the Nebraska delegation for

their support.” Moved to Omaha to live with his sister, after the death of his parents. He originally joined the Navy in 1937 and was honorably discharged in November of 1941. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, French immediately re-enlisted. On the night of September 5, 1942, a Japanese naval ship torpedoed the U.S.S. Gregory, the ship French worked on. He was able to assist 15 wounded soldiers to a life raft, and for roughly six to eight hours, he evaded Japanese ships and sharks by swimming with a boat in tow. The legend of the Human Tugboat came to be. “French’s story is inspiring, and his recognition is long overdue,” said Bacon. “I hope his family feels the support of the community and the country and knows that the sacrifice of their beloved family member will not be forgotten.” There will be a community event later in the year recognizing Charles Jackson French’s story and installation of a plaque in commemoration.

One of the biggest drawbacks to investors considering an annuity is the lack of liquidity. Once you put your money into one of these contracts, getting it out can be very restrictive and very costly. Although most contracts allow you a limited withdrawal each year, should you have an emergency and need a large amount of money, you will be hit with significant surrender charges for wanting to take out your own money. The expenses and limitations that I’ve mentioned don’t apply universally to all annuities. There are different kinds that have various provisions and limitations. But all are illiquid. There are Immediate and deferred annuities. The first is a contract where you give the insurance company a lump sum of money in return for payment that begins right away. You’re getting a promise of regular payments for a certain period of time or for a life time (This is one of the so-called features for which they charge a fee). You’re exchanging the flexibility and opportunity for future growth for payments with limitations. A deferred annuity is a contract arrangement where in exchange for your capital the payments will start at

some time in the future. While this contact gives your money time to grow before you annuitize it, there are still restrictive, costly provisions for being able to withdraw your money before the agreed time. All annuities have some form of provisions called “riders.” These are usually offered up as added benefits to the purchaser but they come at high additional expenses. These fees, commissions, and expenses eat up the potential growth of your capital and thus negatively impact your benefits. Importantly, different companies have different terms for these riders, so be very careful to read the contract. (And good luck with that!) An annuity contract or prospectus is one of the most complex, opaque documents you’ll ever come across. That alone should throw up your cautionary flags. Below is a list of some of the expenses; keep in mind the terms may vary from company to company. One more important thing, most insurance sales people are not fiduciaries which means they are not duty bound to act in your best interests when it comes to selling you these products and disclosing all the underlying fees and expenses you may incur, especially their sales commission. “Buyer beware.” Fees and Expenses (examples): Admin. Fees-0.10-0.15% Guaranteed Withdrawal fees-0.500.60% Fund fees-.0.60% Mortality & expense-1.20-1.25% Death Benefit-1.60-1.70% All the above can add up to 4.30% annually. In summary, annuities are some of the most complex contracts (they’re not investments) you’ll come across. They are a very difficult way to manage your retirement income. If you’re thinking about an annuity or already have one EverGreen Capital Management would be glad to evaluate your situation, the contract you’re considering and its provisions for prospective clients at no costs. “You’ve worked hard for your money, make it work for you.”

Holland continued from page 7

compromised. Although Howe was moved by the young man’s demeanor and patriotism, it could not be denied that he was out of uniform behind enemy lines. The customs of war were clear and Nathan was sentenced to hang. The next morning, Sunday, September 22, 1776 at 11:00 AM, Nathan Hale was marched north, about a mile up the post road to the Park of Artillery where after giving a spirited speech he was executed. A British military engineer and cartographer named John Montresor witnessed the event and was deeply touched by Nathans composure and his last words. As fate would have it, Captain Montresor was ordered to deliver a message from General Howe to Washington under a white flag that very afternoon. Montresor sincerely emphasized that Nathan had impressed everyone with his sense of dignity and courage, quoted Nathans words while he stood on the gallows: “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.” Nathan Hale’s body was left hanging for several days near the site of his execution and later was buried in an unmarked grave. He was 21 years old. Dr. Holland lives in Central Kentucky where he is an ordained Christian minister, community chaplain and author. Read more about the Christian life and his new book about miracles, “Receiving Our Healing” at billyhollandministries.com

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Your Path Forward Starts Now KNOCK OUT YOUR GEN EDS

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Nebraska High School students graduating in 2022-25 are eligible to take credit classes at no cost for tuition. This option is only available for the 2022 summer quarter.

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Students will be responsible for tools, textbooks and any other associated course fees.

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Use your credits toward a degree at MCC, or transfer them to another college or university.

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