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Featured Business: Inside Black - Owned Business Month Bree’s Story Part 3 - Inhale - Owned 1

WRITERS & STAFF Editor-In-Chief Dwana Bradley Copy Editor Virgina Smith Contributors Creative Director Nikki Goldman - LosRos Graphix Donnetta Austin Debra Carr Terence Haynes Angela Jackson Celeste Lawson Gary Lawson Bert Moody Lori Young Marcus Supreme Courageous Fire MAGAZINE OUTLETS Broadlawns 1801 Hickman Road, Des Moines, IA 50314 CareMore 1530 East Euclid, Des Moines, Iowa 50313 Central Library 1000 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309 DMACC Urban Campus 1100 7th Street, Des Moines, IA 50314 DSM Brew Coffee Co. 300 Martin Luther King Jr. Pkwy, Suite 140, Des Moines, Iowa 50309 Drake Diner 1111 25th Street, Des Moines, IA 50311 Eastside Library 2559 Hubbell Ave. Des Moines, Iowa 50317 Evelyn Davis Center 801 Suite #3, University Ave, Des Moines IA 50314 Fields Pharmacy 501 University Ave. Des Moines, IA 50314 Iowa-Nebraska NAACP 1620 Pleseant Suite #210, Des Moines, IA 50314 Forest Library 1326 Forest Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314 Franklin Library 5000 Franklin Ave. Des Moines, Iowa 50310 Hy-Vee 3330 Martin Luther King Jr. Pkwy, Des Moines, IA 50310 John R. Grubb YMCA 11th Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50314 Johnston Library 6700 Merle Hay Rd. Johnston, Iowa 50131 Northside Library 3516 5th Ave. Des Moines, Iowa 50313 Mr. Bibbs 2705 6th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313 Senior Polk County 2008 Forest Ave, Des Moines IA 50314 Smokey Row Coffee Co. 1910 Cottage Grove, Des Moines, Iowa 50314 Southside Library 1111 Porter Ave. Des Moines, Iowa 50315 The Great Frame Up 5515 Mills Civic Parkway Suite #150, West Des Moines, IA 50266 The Des Moines Civil and Human Rights 602 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines IA 50309 COVID-19 The Urban Dreams 601 Forest Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50314 Traditions Grooming Parlor 1111 E. Army Post Road Ste. 154 Urbandale Public Library 3520 86th Street, Urbandale, IA 50322 Urbandale Chamber of Commerce 2830 100th Street, Suite 110, Urbandale, IA 50322 West Des Moines Library 4000 Mills Clive Pkwy, West Des Moines, Iowa 50365 The Zone of Comfort 3829 71st Street, Suite B, Urbandale, IA 50322 Also Available at churches, our directory can be found on our website at dsmurban.org

SUMMARY 6 18 33 36 3 11 12 16 18 24 21 31 33 34 36 38 42 Featured Artist John Dee Bright Students Black-Owned Business Month - Ruby B’s Hearing from God Bree’s Story While we Wait to Breathe Again: Part 3 Jok Earns National Recognition for SEL leadership Why Demonizing the Unvaccinated Won’t Work Creative Visions Celebrating 25 Years of Service Don’t Skip Your Annual Physical Walk to End Alzheimers Doctors Agree Mask are Here to Stay Always Join our email club at: joindsmurban@gmail.com Submit your news to: dsmurbannews@gmail.com Become a Outlet for Urban: contactdsmurban@gmail.com

GET THE URBAN EXPERIENCE The Urban Experience Magazine was founded by my father Roderick Bradley. In the 80’s and early 90’s my father ran The Iowa Bystander/The Communicator Newspaper which was the oldest African American publication in Iowa. After selling the newspaper he went onto be a Pastor and has been pastoring for over twenty years. In December 2014 my father wanted to start a magazine. Having no journalistic experience, I didn’t know if this is something I should touch knowing how my father felt about his newspaper years ago, I accepted the challenge. Our first publication was printed in February 2014 and distributed in churches. As time went on my father decreased with his assistance with the magazine and now, I run the magazine and our media company Iowa Urban Media which prints and publishes the magazine, and we have The Urban Impact Show which airs via social media on Sundays. We have grown from having our publication in churches to various locations across the city and social media. At first the why for doing the magazine was my father, but now I love to tell the stories of others. “Mainstream media portrays African Americans negatively. We make the news when there has been a murder or robbery. I knew there were stories to tell, stories that told of our struggles, stories that tell of our greatness, and stories that inspire.” The Urban Experience Magazine currently reaches people in the state of Iowa and across the United States digitally and in print. When you view the magazine, you will read articles related to health, arts and culture, education, spirituality, public affairs, and community. Our articles are positive and empower and educate our readers. To learn more, check out our website at www.theurbanexp.com to see the latest issue of the publication. Blessings, Dwana Bradley Dwana Bradley Iowa Urban Media The Urban Experience Magazine

EDITORIAL EDUCATION AND LAWS I find myself disturbed by the laws that have been passed at the state house. My concern stems from everyone sticking their noses in the work that teachers should be able to do. Teaching is a profession that takes work, not everyone gets a teaching license and most have attend college to receive their credentials. My doctor worked tirelessly to be a doctor. I would never try to do my doctor’s job or tell them what I believe it best, but somehow, we are now telling teachers what they can and can’t teach. Dwana Bradley Editor in Chief T eaching has been the one profession I’ve enjoyed. I spent seven years teaching for one district and have kept in contact with many teachers and students. For me teaching was about being able to make an impact on the lives of students who look up to me as a vital person in their life. Teaching was also about being creative in the way in which I provided instruction to my students. Teaching has always been about proclaiming the truth and preparing students for their educational journey and life. I wonder how many people in the state house have been in a classroom. I wonder if you’ve seen what goes on day to day and if you know the reality of teaching. My concern is we create laws without understanding the lives it will impact. We are now at a crossroads in education and I believe it will get worse before it gets better. I believe in the power of the vote and I believe people should get registered to vote. I’ve said it before, but people have fought and died for us to have that right. I believe the way we make change is in two ways. One get out and vote and two start having conversations with those who represent us so that they can advocate for us. I urge those at the state level who are creating these laws to come visit the ones your laws will impact before you say yes. Don’t take the stories that others have told you to determine what reality truly is and while I’m a fan of media try to research things for yourself instead of taking what media is telling you especially if they only provide one point of view for the news. I will never advocate for our teachers teaching a distortion of history. I will advocate for them telling the stories of people who look like me who have had a past that treated many like property and continued to put fear in them and unfortunately it was at the hands of some white people. Why is that so hard to accept? We all have done wrong. My grandma said when you mess up fess up. Being in denial isn’t a good look on anyone. We must do better, we must act better, and we must learn the truth and speak out for what is right. Change begins with you. Blessings, Dwana Bradley As a side note CRT isn’t taught in many school districts in the state of Iowa, it’s taught at the college level so please stop talking about it being taught in schools and another thing look up what CRT is and stop relying on the media to guide you. Look it up for yourself, educate yourself you just might learn something and change the way you view things. 5

Phyllis THE GREAT FRAME UP SUPPORTS AFRICAN AMERICAN ARTIST AUGUST FEATURE PHYLLIS STEPHENS DES MOINES, IOWA – As a local custom frame retailer and art gallery, The Great Frame Up in West Des Moines enjoys supporting the visual arts. This month we selected Georgia born American artist, storyteller and quilter Phyllis Stephens. Stephens believes that her abilities are a gift from God, “in Him there is nothing to add, and nothing can be taken away, He is a true and solid source”. ---Phyllis Stephens

In an article written for The Post Brookhaven, GA, July 7, 2017 —by Emily Morris, she describes how every quilt tells a story —“A burst of colors, upbeat strains of R&B music, and the cordial atmosphere of new and old acquaintances mingling . . . Phyllis Stephens: Story Quilts at Oglethorpe University Museum of Art on June 24th, 2017. The label of each work reads “every quilt tells a story,” and Phyllis Stephens’ quilts tell the story of her craft over time.” “The compilation of works in the exhibition reflected an evolution of style as well as information gathered over time to affect Stephens’ subject matter leading to her role as both artist and advocate of civil rights.” - Emily Morris Emily Morris writes about Stephens thirty-five years as a quilter and the museum exhibit that featured her earlier work such as A Little Exposure, produced in 1998 as well as her recently commissioned pieces of 2017, Silent Enforcer and others. “The compilation of works in the exhibition reflected an evolution of style as well as information gathered over time to affect Stephens’ subject matter leading to her role as both artist and advocate of civil rights.” Morris give us insights into Stevens’ artwork “The African American experience plays a major role in Stephens’ work, and many of the themes of her story quilts highlight close-knit family ties, perseverance in the face of adversity, domestic life, and Christian faith. The domestic and family themes recall memories of Stephens’ time among her family in Athens, Georgia, where she was born. Although she moved with her parents to Connecticut at six months, where she lived until adulthood, she eventually returned to Georgia which she considers her home.” “Years in New England were punctuated by summers with family in Athens, where Stephens, a fifth-generation quilter, especially enjoyed taking part in quilting circles. . . While 7 Stephens

Stephens’ roots forged her passion for quilting, her world travels influenced her style and continue to contribute to its evolution over time. An observation of Stephens’ work reveals fabric of many diverse patterns and colors. A fourteenmonth stay in West Africa further enhanced her use of color, fabric, and style, and she continues to travel often to Ghana, “the Fabric Capital of the World,” to collect new material for her work. Her trips to places such as New York City and Instanbul played a role in her creation of the background of such works as Lovers Lane, in which the buildings surrounding the avenue resemble a New York City Street, and the tower in the background echoes the form of an Istanbul minaret. The disparate elements create a fantastical and romantic cityscape for the lovers walking down the central lane.” In 2010, Stephens received an award by the Georgia House of Representatives, a resolution for her art portfolio entitled “For Crying Out Loud” a tribute to the Children of the Civil Rights Movement. Morris gives us a glimpse into the complex social nature of Phyllis Stephens. “As well as the telling of tales of love, life, travels, childhood, and family values, Stephens delves into darker themes from Black History in her work. One of the most powerful of Stephens’ projects, . . . is her limited-edition portfolio and quilt storybook “For Crying Out Loud,” . . . After reading an article in Essence magazine which discussed the fate of thirty-three young girls promoting civil rights who were arrested and imprisoned, Stephens created a compilation of quilts following their harrowing story. Stephens asserts that the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s was really a young peoples’ movement, in which the youth, often minors, fought for equality when their parents, threatened by the potential repercussions of job loss, harm, and punishment, stayed behind but encouraged their children nonetheless. Stephens created “For Crying Out Loud” as a means to shed light on the role that so many young adults and teens played the movement.” Excerpt Taken From – phyllisstephensart.com Her design process and techniques are cutting edge. Stephens’ work has been described as innovative and fresh. Her color selections and fabric choices are unmatched. She states, “My love affair with the art of quilt making is a seed planted inside me by every generation I have knowledge of. Once when I gave my grandmother a quilt she proudly proclaimed, I quilted with the same form and sense of her grandmother. The stories I tell in my quilts live deep inside of me. Some works are a collaboration of many stories brought together to make one piece. While others depict defining moments I have chosen to pay close attention to. Quilting is sometimes thought of as a hard, long, drawn-out process. Not for me. I am an heir to the culture and value of the African tradition of quilt making. The long process allows me time to travel to some of the sweetest places in my memories. Like the quilting parties I enjoyed as a little girl. It was there that sewing hands and tall txaales flowed one in the same. I enjoy every part, every process and the special privilege of creating a quilt”. Credits – phyllisstephensart.com and brookhavenpost. co/2017/07/07/phyllis-stephens-story-quilts-at-oglethorpe-universitymuseum-of-art-in-brookhaven/ justin Favela CENTRAL AMERICAN NOW OPEN MORE AT DESMOINESARTCENTER.ORG Justin Favela (American, born 1986) Detail from Central American, 2021 / Paper and glue / Courtesy of the artist 4700 GRAND AVENUE | DES MOINES

About The Great Frame Up Founded in 1972, The Great Frame Up, Inc. is a custom picture framer, offering more than 1,000 custom frames, mat styles, ready to hang framed art and local artwork. The West Des Moines location of The Great Frame Up opened in 2005 and is located at 5515 Mills Civic Parkway in the West Glen and is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 10- 6pm; Thursday 10- 8pm & Saturday 10- 5pm. We currently feature originals, prints, sculptures and framed artwork of numerous African American and Iowa artists in the gallery. www. westdesmoines.thegreatframeup.com Please follow us on – Instagram - @thegreatframeup_ wdm; on our Facebook page at www.facebook. com/tgfuwdmiowa. on Pinterest www.pinterest. com/tgfuwdm and Twitter @tgfuwdm. Members receive a adult 20% discount JOIN TODAY! summer classes IN PERSON AND VIRTUAL OPTIONS FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT desmoinesartcenter.org/LEARN Art | Memories Conservation Materials | Commercial & In-Home Consultation Bring in this ad for 30% Off Your Custom Framing Order! West Glen Town Center 5515 Mills Civic Parkway #150 West Des Moines, IA 50266 515-226-2310 westdesmoines.thegreatframeup.com For millions of prints - shop our online store shopthegreatframeupart.com 9

PRESENTED BY THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! LOYAL: CONTRIBUTING PARTNERS: School Supplies! Haircuts! Vendors! Food!

John D. Bright College John D. Bright College on the campus of Drake University welcomed it’s first cohort of students with a banquet on August 6th, 2021. Students took to the stage to share the images their groups created. Wayne Ford and Dwana Bradley Senior Ambassadors were also in attendance to share words of encourage. Craig Owens, who is the Dean, shared his excitement with students as they being their educational journey at Drake University. Students will start classes on August 30th. If you would like more information about John D. Bright college visit https://www.drake.edu/bright/ 11 EDUCATION

BLACK OWNED BUSINESS MONTH Delicious food. Wonderful memories. These are words that come to mind when I think of my beloved grandmother Ruby (Bradley) Parsons. Grandma Ruby loved to cook. Holidays were a blast, that’s when she was at her best. Grandma Ruby affectionately known as Granny would be up before the sun, checking on the succulent turkey, stirring those gorgeous greens, and lowering the fire under the down-home chitterlings. I remember I had the privilege of toasting the bread for the dressing oh, it was so good. Grandma Ruby looked forward to seeing the smiles on our faces when we all sat down to eat. Smiles of anticipation and later satisfaction, for love was put into each and every recipe, love for her family which included her passion for cooking. In the summertime Grandma Ruby extended this passion to the community and prepared meals for the Community Day Camp. She set the menu, ordered the food, and prepared the lunches. Grandma Ruby was our wonder woman; she got the job done. Granny as everyone called her, loved to cook! She only knew how to prepare meals for an army and was in her element doing it. As matter of fact, she couldn’t cook for 2 or 3 people. It would be an insult to Granny, there was always room for one more. From hearty home cooked meals to delicious pies Granny was the best! When you eat at Ruby B’s you’re not only eating food but becoming part of the family enjoying dishes, with each delectable bite made with love. Come hungry and leave full, experience legacy firsthand. Make sure to visit us at Ruby B’s at local events, call us for catering, or join us at Kitchen Spaces in October. Follow us on Facebook.

ADDITIONAL BLACK-OWNED BUSINESS

SPIRITUALITY “Be still, and know that I am God”. Psalms 46:10 Hearing From God Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Colossians 3:15

Just like many of us tune into our favorite radio station to get the update on what’s new and popping in the music industry, or what is currently happening with the artist in their career. It is important for each of us to stay tuned into the voice of God. You may qualify for a $10,000 forgivable loan! Home Purchase with Renovation Have you ever been in a situation or season in your life where your mind is cluttered, or you’re so busy with things going on in your life that it feels like there is not enough hours in a day to complete the task? It is a sense of running up to a certain speed, making due for everyone else except yourself and you begin to feel empty. You are not getting the fulfillment that is needed to sustain life’s circumstances or problems we face. As a matter a fact you are more acceptable to becoming vulnerable and your overall health will begin to shift. All of the sudden it will make it so that you’re not feeling well physically, mentally, even spiritually. In this case what do you do? In the Bible the Lord says; Psalms 46:10 “Be still, and know that I am God”. Colossians 3:15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. When we sit before the Lord quietly and humbly we maintain an attitude of expectancy for God to enter into our hearts so that we can receive a word from him. God longs to have a relationship and commune with us. Will you follow him and stay tuned through prayer without ceasing, reading the scriptures, seeking God, as well as obeying him and allowing the peace of God to bring comfort in every aspect of life? The decision and choice you make is yours choose wisely. By author Donnetta Austin Email be.encouragedbyone@gmail.com Book on Amazon “Never Retire God” Dreams Do Come True Purchase Loans A home mortgage loan for individuals seeking to purchase a home in one of our lending areas. When qualifying for a purchase loan, borrowers may also receive a subsidized loan of up to $2,500 in closing costs and up to $10,000 for home renovations. These subsidized loans are forgiven after five years of owning the home. Front Porch Loan Loans restricted to exterior repairs only paired with a forgivable loan. The percent of a home improvement loan that can be forgiven is 25%, 33% or 50%, up to $10,000, depending on the household income. This program will consider borrowers with lower credit scores than NFC is able to approve through the NFC Advantage loan programs. Refinance with Renovation Home Improvement If you’re looking to purchase or renovate in an NFC lending area, then NFC has a product for you. Home Improvement Loans Make home repairs to a home within our lending areas. The percent of a home improvement loan that can be forgiven is 25%, 33% or 50%, up to $10,000, depending on the household income. Refinance Loans NFC may also help you save money by refinancing an existing mortgage on a home you already own in an NFC lending area and receive up to $10,000 in a subsidized renovation loan. Dedicated to keeping neighborhoods strong in Polk County! NEIGHBORHOOD FINANCE CORPORATION 1912 6TH AVENUE, DES MOINES, IOWA 50314 NeighborhoodFinance.org | 515.246.0010 Contact NFC Today! (PHOTO) NMLS# 8943 17

COURAGEOUS TRUTHS: Bree’s Story “If you leave me, I’ll ruin your life. Don’t think this is the only picture…”

Rewind. At 40 years old, Bree*1 had been working on her career - hard - for years. She had also been collaborating with people who shared her passion in providing opportunities for Black children, and they finally formed their company. Through her impressive networking, she strategically looped in every part the organization would need. Bree won the respect of her community and was quickly making the organization renowned throughout the entire state of Iowa. During all of this, however, Bree knew she longed for male companionship and the perks she fantasized would come with it...and then finally admitted that to herself. She met Lamont shortly after this discovery. He seemed to understand her busy schedule and limited free time in the beginning. They both said they wanted to keep things simple, and for a while they did. As Bree got more comfortable, she noticed Lamont getting territorial with her. Trying to get her to call him “her man”; trying to coerce confessions about her time spent when she wasn’t with him; getting beyond pouty when she declined an outing. They A few days later, she heard what sounded like someone trying to open her garage. As she tried to tell herself she must have imagined it, her phone rang. It was Lamont asking her if she meant to leave her mailbox open. Her kids had just caught the school bus moments earlier. She shuddered when she realized he was lurking outside her home again while her children were out there.2 She weren’t exclusive, he wasn’t “her type”, so she started backing away from regular communication. When she accidentally picked up his call while trying to answer another and found an irritated Lamont on the other end, that was the push she needed to tell him she wanted to stop seeing him. She had no idea this would happen next. Bree came home late one night a few weeks later to find someone had left a bag of food on her porch. She carefully walked up to the package. Visually inspecting it, she found Lamont’s handwriting on the outside of the bag, “thought you might be hungry”. She threw it away and rushed into the house. Seconds later, her phone rang. It was Lamont asking, “Did you see your dinner?” Bree firmly instructed him not to come over to her house unannounced and uninvited ever again. She felt herself being swallowed by an avalanche of feelings. #1: Furious! How dare he take a photo of her naked body! #2: Terrified. What else was he capable of doing if he is this bold? #3: Nauseous. How could she have allowed herself to be in a compromising position with someone clearly this unstable? As her presence of mind foggily returned she looked at her phone again, and the 2nd text message showed his threat: “If you leave me, I’ll ruin your life. Don’t think this is the only picture…” Before she knew it she had dialed his number and was screaming all the cuss words she could think of weaved around a declaration, “you will stay away from me, my kids, and MY HOME!” As she hung 19 was much more firm this time when she demanded that he stop. In mid-sentence, her phone buzzed. The photo that showed up in her text messages was her - under a sheet with her back to the camera - partially nude. What?! They had sex one time - just once - and he had to have taken it while she slept.

up, a new avalanche of shame and despair overwhelmed her. There should be something she could do! As she paced around the room then flopped into her chair, a business card fluttered to the ground. It belonged to that woman she heard speak a few months ago about hidden forms of DV (domestic violence). When she called Courageous Fire, LLC, she learned the 2 types of abuse that happened to her were stalking and revenge porn. Courageous told Bree to call the National Domestic Violence Hotline to get help with safety planning so she could find ways to stay safe that would be effective for her specific situation. When Bree talked to thehotline. org, she was shocked to find out that she was not alone. Twothirds, 66.2%, of female stalking victims were stalked by their former partner3 . The advocate also confirmed and defined “revenge porn...nonconsensual pornography. This type of abuse intersects with sexual abuse, as it involves the digital distribution of nude or sexually explicit photos and/or videos of a person without their consent. It’s called “revenge” porn because the images or videos are often used as retaliation or as blackmail material by a current or former partner.”4 should ever need them. 1 in 12 adults report it, 1 in 20 adults are perpetrators, and a study showed 99% people surveyed expressed some level of approval of revenge porn5 . With these numbers, Bree was relieved to learn revenge porn had officially been named a crime in Iowa in 20176 making Lamont’s actions against the law. The advocate explained what help was available if she wanted to pursue legal action. She didn’t want to, but was glad to know she could. Bree now knows that stalking and revenge porn are serious, and she started educating her close friends. Black women often joke about the perpetrators of these types of abuses; however, 76% of women murdered by an intimate partner were stalked first. Bree decided she’s taking a break right now. When she resumes the search for companionship, she’s going to watch out for signs of possessiveness, avoid spending the night or going to sleep anywhere except home, keep her home address private, and be proactively positive on her social media sites. She’s grateful there are resources available if she I’m sharing Bree’s story during this month to give attention to this combination of pervasive and destructive forms of abuse - stalking and revenge porn - in the following ways: 1. Don’t know much about revenge porn? Find out here: TheHotline.org/resources/ revenge-porn 2. Has someone posted/ threatened to post nude/partially nude/compromising photos of you? Is someone insisting on occupying your space? Check out 1 or both of these resources: 1) online only - WithoutMyConsent. org; 2) online or phone - The Hotline.org or call 800-799-7233 3. Survived revenge porn, stalking, or other DV and want to avoid future predators? Sign up for Empowerment through the Arts™; Survivor Support 4. Community member? Learn how to support victim-survivors: Community Training 5.Want to financially support the work? Donate Here Blessings. #Permission By Courageous Fire DV Advocate & Founder of Courageous Fire, LLC Endnotes 1. Bree* is a fictitious, composite character, as well as the other characters in this story. Bree is used to demonstrate the factual material contained within this article. The characters’ attributes/demographics are taken from case studies, surveys, and DV abuse definitions. 2. Stalking definition from National Domestic Violence Hotline:“Stalking generally refers to harassing or threatening behavior that an individual engages in repeatedly, such as following a person, appearing at a person’s home or place of business, making harassing phone calls, leaving written messages or objects, or vandalizing a person’s property. These actions may or may not be accompanied by a credible threat of serious harm, and they may or may not be precursors to an assault or murder.” 3. Taken from National Domestic Violence statistics page at thehotline.org 4. Taken from National Domestic Violence page on revenge porn at thehotline.org 5. FightTheNewDrug.org article: 15 Surprising Facts about How Common Revenge Porn Is 6. CBS2Iowa.com article: Law criminalizes “revenge porn”

Jok Earns National Recognition for SEL Leadership The acronym SEL is often heard in education circles these days, including here at Des Moines Public Schools. It stands for social and emotional learning, and recognizes the success of students is about more than academics but also understanding their needs as human beings. Dau Jok leads the SEL effort at DMPS. And he is now recognized as a national leader in that work. Jok was recently named to the very first group of members to the SEL Fellows Academy by CASEL, the national non-profit organization which founded the field of SEL. “I am honored to be part of the inaugural CASEL Fellows Academy because of the community of SEL leaders—Fellows and CASEL staff—seeking to enhance SEL, especially Transformative SEL,” said Jok. “It is a privilege to engage with the experts in the field.” According to CASEL, the urgency for social and emotional learning has never been greater as educators navigate complex challenges that emerged from this unprecedented year. Yet, there is an implementation gap. A 2021 report found just one in 10 teachers believe their schools are very successful at developing students’ social and emotional skills. To address this need, CASEL welcomed 31 school district and regional leaders from across the United States to join the new, annual fellowship that will accelerate SEL in school communities nationwide. Made possible by The Allstate Foundation, the SEL Fellows Academy is a 12-month engagement that will deepen SEL leadership practices on a personal, interpersonal, and institutional level. Those responsible for advancing SEL in school districts and regional offices of education were invited to apply. The inaugural cohort welcomes representatives from 31 communities in 17 states that collectively serve close to 1.6 million students, preschool to high school. Their applications showed both an impressive personal and institutional commitment to SEL. “At DMPS, we are embarking on Transformative SEL, looking at not just traditional SEL but ways we can create equitable and thriving school communities,” added Jok. “We are a district of more than 32,000 students and 5,000 staff representing more than 88 countries and 100 spoken languages, this diversity only matters if we address inequities, uplift the lived experiences and humanity of each student, staff, and family in our school communities.” Jok brings a unique life experience to his work at DMPS. A native of South Sudan, his family came to Iowa in 2003 as refugees fleeing the war in his home nation. A graduate of Roosevelt High School, Jok went on to receive an Ivy League education as a student and basketball player at the University of Pennsylvania, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy. He also serve his new nation as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserves. Jok has also earned a Masters of Science in Global Leadership from Goldsmiths, University of London as well as a PhD in education from Drake University. “SEL is not just something you do to kids, it is a catalyst that ensures our students can thrive academically, emotionally, and socially while creating a flourishing work environment for our staff,” said Jok. “It is meeting the emotional needs of our people with humanity and curiosity instead of judgment and single story; empowering our students to have voice, agency, and be co-creators of the learning environment; celebrating the authenticity and uniqueness of our diversity; addressing social inequities that harm certain populations of our communities such as racism, sexism, classism, Islamophobia, homophobia, etc. DMPS is only great if we uplift the voices of the historically marginalized while challenging anything that harms instead of healing. We want to graduate leaders who can compete and excel in the global economy.” By Des Moines Public Schools – www.dmschools.org Photo Credit: Des Moines Public School 21

It's important to take the time to acknowledge the uniqueness of the deceased: the individuality of their personality, and the uniqueness of their life's path. Not just for them, but for you; it affirms the relationship, and leads to healing after loss. Honoring their life is truly an act of love – for the both of you. “WE’RE FAMILY” PHONE: (515) 309-6550 3500 SIXTH AVENUE DES MOINES, IA 50313 HENDERSONSHP.COM

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“ WHILE WE WAIT TO BREATHE AGAIN ” Part 3: INHALE “You named your doll Mother Claudia?” She stopped brushing her doll’s hair for a minute to give him a look of disgust and then continued gracefully, smoothing out the old doll’s curly hair. “She was a gift to my grandmother, given by my great grandmother, Claudia. She was then passed down to my mother, who then gave it to me, and when I have a daughter, I’m going to pass it down to her.” She said, never once making eye contact. Miles was taken aback by the young girl’s intuitive personality. Well, excuse me, he thought. “Do you miss your parents?” That was a dumb question, he wished he could take it back as soon as he said it. But this time, the little girl smiled, revealing a wide gap at the top where two teeth should be. For some reason, the smile of the snaggletooth little girl made him feel more at peace. “Can I tell you a secret?” He nodded, and she leaned over to him. “They’re not gone, they’re in Heaven,” she giggled. “Heaven?” Miles asked once again, throw off by her answer. “Yea, don’t you believe?” She asked, looking at him like he was growing two heads. “I guess, I mean, I’m hoping that’s where my girlfriend went,” he said in a low voice. She frowned, “Was she a good person?” “The best,” he said with a smile.

A smile reappeared back on her face matching his, “Well then you have nothing to worry about, she’s prolly with my parents right now,” she said, going back to her doll’s hair as if she just solved his problem. Miles chuckled, imagine that. “Hey Stone, we got a 10-33, we need all our guys! Let’s go!” The Captain called to him. Miles jumped to action, leaving the little girl in the corner by herself, still occupied with her doll. *** When Miles made it back to the station, it was quiet, and he no longer saw the little girl, but he did see a lot of commotion taking place in the Captain’s office. He knocked on the door and let himself in, “Uh, Captain, can I have a word?” He observed the room and noticed the little girl sitting next to two women who both had a social services nametag. “Uh, sure. One second, ladies, I apologize.” He walked out with Miles with a stern look on his face. “What is it son, can’t you see I’m busy?” “Um, Cap. are those ladies taking the little girl?” “Yea, she can’t stay here, and they weren’t able to locate any of her family members. What’s it to you?” The Captain had a suspicious grin on his face. “Come on, Cap., she’s a little girl. She just lost her parents. Can’t we do something for her?” The Captain stroked his chin and gave a hard look to Miles before responding. “Well, the department does have a policy for temporary custody for orphans that show up at our door. She could stay with you until they place her with a family. That is, you know, unless you don’t want to mix your grief.” The chief said with a hearty laugh. Miles rolled his eyes, “I could use the company, and she’s not the worst little girl in the world I guess, it would just be until she gets placed with a family.” Miles wasn’t ready to go back to an empty home, he didn’t want to deal with anymore dreams of Sheila haunting him. The Captain smiled and clapped his hands together, “Okay, great! We’ll start up the paperwork. Let me go tell those two ladies in there.” Miles looked inside the office as the Captain was telling the two social workers that he had a volunteer to take the little girl home, he noticed a smirk forming on her face. It gave him the confidence that he was doing the right thing. Besides, it was just a little girl, how hard could it be? He had plenty of time to change his mind while he was in the car driving to his house, he looked in the rearview mirror, and sure enough, they were still following him. “Nope too late to turn back now,” he said to himself. He pulled up in his driveway and waited until the two ladies and the little girl got out to go inside. “Welp here’s my house, ladies,” he said, ushering them inside. “Okay, great. Mr. Stone, we just have some rules we have to cover for your temporary guardianship of Ms. Candace Shipp.” “Okay, sure.” “First things first, Candace is seven, and in grade school, so she will have to be enrolled in an elementary school in your district first thing Monday morning. Second…” The social worker was going through so many rules, Miles thought his head would spin, but when she finally got to the last one, he nodded like he was paying attention the whole time. “The first check-in will be at random, but we will let you know what week we’re coming so you can get a heads up of any appointments you might need to change. Any questions?” He looked down at Candace, who was looking around at the art on his walls. He smiled, “Nope, none at all.” “Well, if you need anything, call us. Take care, Candace.” And just like that, they were out the door, leaving Miles and Candace on their own. “I guess this will do. Where’s my room?” She looked up at him. “Right.” Miles snapped his fingers. “I didn’t get a chance to fix it up or anything but, you’ll be in the spare bedroom.” Candace eyed him, “Is that where 25

she used to sleep?” “Huh?” “Your girlfriend. Did she sleep in the spare bedroom, because my mom told me a man and a woman shouldn’t sleep in the same room if they aren’t married.” “Uhhh,” Miles stammered, “She had her own place where she slept.” He said, rubbing his arms. “Hm, classy girl. I would’ve liked her. Now, where is it? I’ve had a long day. I’d like to go to bed now.” Miles just stared at her, in awe that this little girl was only seven. Who is she? Miles shook his head to clear his thoughts and picked up Candace’s bags. “Here this way.” He took her stuff to the room while she followed behind. “Thank you I can take it from here now,” she told him, getting some of her stuff settled already. He noticed she never once put her doll down. “Okay, just holler if you need me then.” He barely got out before she shut the door in his face. Miles was wondering if he had his work cut out for him. “I’m in for a real treat,” he said to himself. He went and busied himself getting ready for the weekend, his first full weekend without Sheila. Before he went to bed himself, he wanted to check on his little high maintenance roommate. He gently opened up the door, careful not to wake her just in case she was sleeping, but she wasn’t sleep at all. “And Lord, please don’t let me be sad, I don’t want to be sad anymore, please let me happy. Kiss my parents for me, and oh Lord, please don’t let Mr. Stone be sad either. Amen.” “Amen,” Miles said from the doorway, causing Candace to trip getting up. “I’m sorry,” he laughed. “I didn’t mean to scare you, but you know Candace, it’s okay to be sad. You lost the two people who loved you very much, you don’t have to ignore how it makes you feel.” She thought it over for a while, “I don’t?” “No, you don’t, it’s okay for me to be sad too, but you know what? If you want to be happy, then I’ll just have to be happy with you.” “You will?” Her eyes lit up. “Of course, we’ll both be happy that way; if one of us has a bad day, one of us can cheer the other up. Unless, of course, we’re both sad, then we’ll have to do this!” He broke out in a headstand but toppled over crashing into the bookshelf. “Ouch” Candace let out a loud giggle, “You’re silly, Mr. Stone. Thanks.” “You can call me Miles, but you’re welcome, Ms. Candace. Now to bed, you go, we gotta find you a school tomorrow.” She nodded her head, but before she got in the bed, she ran over and gave him a hug. Miles squeezed her tight before letting her go, then he shut off her light and closed the door. “I guess this won’t be so bad after all,” he said after getting in his own bed. “Easy peasy.” Exhale So much for easy peasy, Candace had been in school less than a month, and Miles was already getting a call about a second fight. “She did what?” He yelled into the phone. “I’m on my way,” he sighed. Miles had thought taking Candace in was going to be a cakewalk considering how well mannered and independent she was. He thought they were working on the grieving process together, but it seemed like Candace still had a long way to go. When Miles made it to the school, he went straight to the principal’s office. He took one look at the little girl with the broken glasses and cut off ponytails and new that was the work of Ms. Candace. He rubbed his hand down his face, not believing Candace could do something so crazy, but then again, yes, he could. “Okay, what happened?” He asked, looking at the principal, but instead, Candace butted in. “She cut Mother Claudia’s hair. See!” She waved the doll in his face, showcasing the once full and long

Free and Conf idential Support for New and Expecting Moms The Des Moines Healthy Start Project offers free services in Des Moines and surrounding areas to help promote a healthy pregnancy, a healthy baby and a healthy family. OUR SERVICES Home visits Medical follow-ups Prenatal and parenting classes Links to community resources Support and leadership groups Stork’s Nest Transportation for medical, mental health and dental appointments Health education and resources (prenatal, postpartum, parenting and child development) Who can sign up? Pregnant moms and families with a child 18 months or younger who live in the following ZIP codes: 50009 50266 50312 50313 50314 50316 Similar programming is available for pregnant moms and families with a child 5 years old or younger who live in any zip code in Polk County. 00068a 4/20 Call the Des Moines Healthy Start Project at EveryStep to see how we can help! (515) 558-9946 | everystep.org This publication is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of an award totaling $1,092,899 with 0% percentage financed with non-governmental sources. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government. For more information, please visit HRSA.gov. 27

ringlets, that now looked like half c’s that stopped at the doll’s chin. Miles frowned, “Why would you do that?” He looked at the culprit. “Excuse me, Mr. Stone, but I think the proper question would be directed at Ms. Ship. We don’t allow children to bring toys from home, and this is exactly why.” “Come on, her mother gave it to her, it obviously holds sentimental value to her, can’t you just give her a warning?” “A warning? Mr. Stone, this is the second fight Candace has gotten into; this is the warning. Candace is suspended for three days, and if it happens again, she will no longer be allowed to attend this school. Is that clear?” “Yes sir, come on, Candace, let’s go.” Candace stuck her tongue out at the little girl and followed behind Miles. “I’m in trouble, aren’t I?” Candace asked as soon as they got into Miles’ truck. “Yes you are, Candace if you get kicked out of school, the state is going to take you from me, do you want that?” Candace put her head down, “No, but I bet you do now, don’t you?” she asked in a low disappointing voice. “Of course I don’t, sweetie, but you can’t go around fighting. There are other ways to grieve, we talked about this.” “I’m not grieving,” she said out of exasperation. “I was just defending my property.” Miles had to chuckle at that one, “Really Candace? Why do you bring the doll anyway, don’t they have plenty of toys for recess?” Candace snorted, “I don’t play with her. I just like knowing she’s with me. I keep her in my backpack under my seat. I was minding my business and writing the math problem on the board. All of a sudden, Linzie Shoebaker grabbed her out of my bag and started waving her around, screaming, ‘Candy plays with dolls candy plays with dolls.’ Then she took the scissors and started cutting Mother Claudia’s hair.” This didn’t sit well with Miles, “And what did your teacher do?” “I guess she didn’t really have time to react because I jumped out of my seat and smacked the glasses off Linzie’s face, and then I took those same scissors and cut her hair the way she cut Ms. Claudia’s,” she shrugged. “Seems like I’m going to have to have a talk with your teacher because that doesn’t seem too fair.” “Tell me about it,” Candace cosigned. Miles just shook his head and smiled, “But seriously, we’re going to have to work on a better way for you to express your anger, let me show you something.” He spun a U-turn in the middle of the road, causing a bubbly laugh to rise out of Candace. “Don’t ever repeat that, by the way.” He said, checking the mirror to make sure he didn’t cause mayhem. When he got to his destination, he parked his car and helped Candace out. “Why are we at a cemetery?” She asked with confusion. “Enough of the questions, come this way, please.” He led her to the only mausoleum that was decorated with pink flowers. “This is where my Sheila rests.” “Sheila’s here?” She asked with wide eyes. “Yep, I come here all the time when I’m frustrated or upset, it’s like Sheila calms me down. I can hear her tell me to chill out.” He chuckles a little. “You never told me how she died.” She said, looking at the lettering of the tomb. “She… She had Galentosis. Her body would produce tumors for no reason. They had grown in her brain and couldn’t be operated on without destroying her overall life, so we went on vacation.” Miles had to pause to stop himself from sobbing out of control. “We didn’t make it to vacation though, Sheila passed out, and the last time I got to see her smiling face was in the back of an ambulance.” “Is that why you keep having those nightmares?” Miles’ face turned white; he was

surprised she knew about those. “You hear me in my sleep?” Candace nodded, “I had those at first, but then I heard you snore, and now I try to go to bed before you.” Miles laughed, a little relieved she wasn’t going through the same thing anymore. “But, it sounds like she felt safe around you,” Sheila said simply. He looked at her, unsure of what she meant. “I think my mom felt comfort knowing I was safe, and she was with my daddy, so it was okay for her to go on peacefully. I think they’d feel a lot better knowing that I have you now also.” She looked up at him, and he smiled. “You are incredibly smart, Candace Ship, you know that?” This time she smiled. “Why don’t we visit your parents?” He asked. She shrugged, “I keep them in a jewelry box until I’m ready to spread their ashes.” “Why don’t you spread them?” “I’m not ready,” she said, lowering her head. “Hey,” he lifted her chin. “How about we set a date, and when you’re ready to spread them out, we will.” “I’d love that!” She gave him a deep hug and made sure Mother Claudia gave him one as well. “Okay, kiddo, let’s get out of here. We have one more stop to make.” They stopped back at her school, and this time he made sure to speak to the teacher who sent her to the principal’s office. He made sure Candace was able to tell her side of the story, and the teacher apologized. Candace also apologized, and the two promised to work together to make the best of the rest of the school year. *** It was an eventful day, to say the least, but Miles was just happy to finally get in the bed. After checking in on Candace, he finally made the call he had been trying to make all day. “Yes, I’m ready to talk about making my guardianship permanent.” breathe “I have a surprise for you!” Miles ran in Candace’s room, jumping up and down on her bed. Candace let out a high-pitched shriek, “Me first me first!” “Okay, shoot,” Miles smiled, unable to contain his excitement. “I’m ready to spread my parents’ ashes, and I know the perfect place!” Miles wasn’t expecting that at all, but he was pleasantly delighted all the same. “Well, what are you waiting for, let’s go!” He ran out of her room over to the table to grab the keys. “Wait! We don’t need the keys, where we’re going is around the block.” She said, putting on her jacket. Miles shrugged and followed her lead out the door. They walked hand in hand, skipping along the way. Miles had never skipped so much in his life, but to be able to keep up with Candace, he had no choice, so he welcomed it. He looked around and scratched his head when they reached their destination. “You want to spread their ashes at the park?” “Not just any park, The Highend Park. Daddy used to take me here all the time, it’s where he proposed to mommy.” Miles just smiled. “The Highend Park it is.” They walked over to an empty spot where the roundabout was, and Candace had an idea. “Will you join me?” She asked, getting ready to climb on the colorful spinning object. “Don’t mind if I do,” Miles responded, sticking out his hand so Candace could get on easier. “Okay, I’m ready,” on her command, Miles pushed off with his left foot, and the roundabout began spinning in slow motion. Candace kissed the top of the jewelry box before lifting it, and 29

then she tossed the ashes downward. Miles watched as the ashes sprinkled into the air, then he turned towards Candace and saw the tears of joy that were splattered across her face. He noticed they were starting to go too fast, so he put his foot down, jerking them both off the toy and onto the grass. Candace couldn’t stop laughing, and after a while, she didn’t bother to get up. Instead, she turned on her back and pointed at the sky. “You think they’re up there now looking down at us laughing at how goofy we are?” Candace asked innocently. Miles turned on his back and looked up in the opposite direction of Candace, “You know what, I think that’s exactly what they’re doing.” Candace was satisfied with that answer, then her face wrinkled as she remembered something. “Hey! What surprises did you have for me?” Miles felt around in his pocket for the adoption papers but decided he would tell her when they got home, right now this was her moment. She had given him a new meaning to love, and for that, he would be grateful. “Just that I love you, kid.” “I love you too, Mr. Stone.” Crishanna Randle Follow mE Buy Lilly Instagram Crishanna Randle is a twenty-eight year old fiction writer residing in the Midwest. Her love for writing came in middle school when she would write short stories and share them with friends and family. Crishanna didn’t become serious about writing until January 2016 when she started writing the first draft to her very first novel that came out in August of 2018, titled Lily Unbloomed. She currently works as a Financial Counselor at a hospital full time while building her writing resume and creating more stories on the side. Crishanna looks forward to getting lost in more stories, making new worlds for her characters, and pursuing her purpose in storytelling

Why Demonizing the Unvaccinated Won’t Work SUNITA SOHRABJ EMS Contributing Editor L ow-income minorities in the U.S., many of whom remain unvaccinated because of hurdles in access and information, are unfairly being blamed for the new rise in Covid infections, said Dr. Tiffani Johnson, a pediatrician with UC Davis Children’s Health Center, at an Ethnic Media Services news briefing July 30. “There are so many barriers that exist to accessing healthcare and those same barriers exist to accessing the vaccine,” said Johnson, one of four speakers at the news conference, which addressed efficacy rates of current vaccines against the Delta variant, the dominant strain in the U.S. “We’ve had some politicians explicitly say it’s time to start blaming the unvaccinated folks as this pandemic worsens. But It’s really a lot more nuanced than just pointing the fingers at the unvaccinated as we continue to see spikes in Covid,” she said. The Kaiser Family Foundation reported July 21 that more than 68 percent of the U.S. population has received at least one dose of the two dose Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, or the single dose Johnson and Johnson vaccine. But as of July 19, less than half of Black and Hispanic people have received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose in the vast majority of states reporting data. The vaccination rate for Black people is less than 50 percent in 38 of 42 reporting states, including 14 states where less than a third of Black people have received one or more doses. Similarly, less than half of Hispanic people have received a COVID-19 vaccine dose in 34 of 40 reporting states, including 10 states where less than a third have received at least one dose, according to the KFF. A study released by Israel’s Ministry of Health in July concluded that the two-dose Pfizer vaccine was just 39 percent effective in controlling the spread of the Delta variant, though it was 80 to 90 percent effective in fighting against severe illness and hospitalizations. A study from Scotland released in June noted that the Delta variant doubles the rate of hospitalization in unvaccinated people. Johnson acknowledged several barriers preventing low income minority populations from getting the two-dose Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, or the single-shot Johnson and Johnson vaccine. A history of redlining — banks refusing loans to certain communities because they live in an area deemed to be a poor financial risk — has led to segregation of minorities living in healthcare deserts, she said. Those who lack stable internet connections may have trouble securing a vaccine, said Johnson, adding that transportation is also a huge barrier. “When you have a vaccine clinic that maybe five miles away, if you don’t have a car, five miles is a long way to try to get on foot.” Hourly wage workers make up a large percentage of vulnerable communities: If they don’t show up to work, they don’t get paid. “So even taking one or two hours off of work to be able to get your vaccine, if you can only find one available during those hours when you’re working, that’s one or two hours that you’re not getting paid,” said Johnson. She noted that people have also expressed concern to her about the side effects associated with the vaccines: chills, fevers, body aches, and general weakness, among other symptoms. Dealing with mild side effects also may require taking time off work, 31

said Johnson. “So either they don’t want to get it or they’re trying to wait for a time where they can block two or three days off.” Communities of color also have a general mistrust of a healthcare system in which they feel unheard and unseen, said Johnson. “We’ve been cheating on these communities for years and abusing them for years and now we’re like: ‘Hey baby, I’m sorry, I love you,’ and we expect them to trust us. But we need to earn that trust and build that trust. And it’s not going to happen overnight,” stated Johnson. The pediatrician said she was not in favor of a vaccination mandate, nor is she in favor of vaccine passports, which are now being required to enter many public places, and job sites. “I don’t think that we should create a two-tiered system where certain groups in certain communities don’t have access to benefits and society. I think that we need to work on educating the community and empowering the community.” “Given all of the barriers that I outlined to getting those vaccines, until we fully address all of those barriers, I don’t think it’s fair to create a two-tiered system,” stated Johnson. IT STARTS WITH US At FHLB Des Moines we’re committed to making a positive impact in our community. The work we do, our employees, the communities we support – diversity, equity and inclusion has always been, and will always be, at the center of it all. Join us and help us make an impact as we serve our members and support our local community. Learn more at www.fhlbdm.com DIVERSE BY DESIGN. INCLUSIVE BY INTENTION. From left to right: Monica Gandhi MD, MPH, Professor of Medicine and Associate Division Chief, Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine at UCSF/ SF General Hospital; Dr. Tiffani Jenae Johnson, Pediatric Emergency Medicine Physician, UC Davis Children’s Hospital; Dr. Ben Neuman, Chief Virologist, Global Health Research Complex at Texas A&M University; Dr. Dali Fan, Clinical Professor, UC Davis Health Science

Creative Visions CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF SERVICE On the evening of July 23, Creative Visions celebrated their 25th year of service during a fundraiser at the Olmsted Center, located on the campus of Drake University. My daughter, Celeste, and I were honored to be invited as guests by Ako Abdul-Samad, who is an Iowa State Representative, and the Chief Executive Officer of Creative Visions. The mission of Creative Visions is “To develop economically vulnerable individuals, families, and communities into becoming self-empowered, selfresponsible, and self- sufficient through education and economic empowerment.” The banquet was 25 attended by a diverse audience of community leaders and influencers who came out to support the continued work of Creative Visions. A brief description of the turnout includes business leaders, civic leaders, clergy leaders, and elected officials (to include the Chair of the Iowa Democratic Party - Hon. Ross Wilburn). I had the opportunity to speak with a number of people who I haven’t recently seen due to the current pandemic, and it was apparent that just about everyone that I chatted with was very pleased to be in attendance. In addition to celebrating the 25th anniversary of Creative Visions, it was also a celebration of the 70th birthday of Representative Ako AbdulSamad. by Gary Lawson Representative Ako Abdul-Samad 33

Broadlawns Medical Center Don’t Skip Your Annual Physical Dr. Lindsey Christianson Broadlawns Ear, Nose, and Throat Clinic The main cause of hearing loss is the aging process. It can also be genetic, starting sooner in life. As we get older, things in our body slow down and it is no different with our ears. Hearing loss can be “sensorineural”, meaning permanent nerve damage. This is the most common type of hearing loss. Some people are born with hearing loss. Others have damage to the ear from exposure loud noises without proper hearing protection. Hearing loss is increasing for the younger population due to the use of ear buds at unsafe levels. For those with sensorineural hearing loss, hearing aids are the main form of treatment to give the ear back the sound that it is missing. Another type of hearing loss is called “conductive.” This type of hearing loss means that something is blocking the sound from getting into the inner ear. This can be things like excessive ear wax or fluid built up in the middle ear space. This type of hearing loss is typically reversible using either medication or surgery and the Audiologist would refer you to an ENT doctor for medical intervention.

Your primary care provider can also help you: • Stay on track with cancer screenings: It’s important to check and see if you are due for a mammogram or a colonoscopy. If so, we can discuss how and where you would get those screenings scheduled. We know that the earlier cancer is caught, the better the outcomes are going to be. • Make sure your labs are up to date: Knowing numbers helps to create a plan. For example, when was the last time you checked your blood sugar? If your blood sugar is in the pre-diabetic range, then we have time to get you education and make a plan to change your diet to prevent it from developing into full diabetes. • Stay up to date on vaccines: Taking a vaccination may prevent you from contracting something that could be devastating. You have likely heard about the COVID vaccine or the flu vaccine, but did you know that adults should get a tetanus booster shot every 10 years? Certain adults might also benefit from being vaccinated against HPV, shingles, and other infectious diseases. • Get in touch with a specialist: If you need more specialized testing or care, your primary care provider can make referrals and help you to decide on the best next steps. • Check in on your mental health: Your mental health has never been more important. Everyone’s life was changed or disrupted in some way by the COVID-19 pandemic and felt an uptick in stress, anxiety, and grief. The role of your primary care provider is to make you aware of what is out there and make sure that you have a provider you are able to contact if or when you have a need. At Broadlawns, we always want patients to remember that we are here to care for their health and their body, so any action taken – labs, screenings, vaccinations, or referrals – are always their choice to make. If you are looking for a primary care provider, the Broadlawns Primary Care Clinic is here to help. The clinic provides comprehensive individual and family health care to meet your needs. We focus on developing long-term relationships with our patients and providing a permanent medical home for family members of all ages to see the same doctor on a continuing basis. Located on the Broadlawns Main Campus, the Primary Care Clinic is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Appointments may be scheduled by calling (515) 282-2273. All forms of insurance, including Medicaid and Medicare, are accepted. 35

Alzheimer’s Association: Walk to End Alzheimer’s “More than ever, we need to come together to support all those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias. With the dollars raised, the Alzheimer’s Association provides care and support to families in Iowa while also advancing critical research toward methods of treatment and prevention.” - Danielle Fuglsang The Alzheimer’s Association Invites You to Join Us for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s This Year in Your Community. The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is world’s largest event dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Iowa hosts 19 Walks across the state in Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Sioux City, Quad Cities, Council Bluffs, Cedar Valley, Ames, Burlington, Clinton, Decorah, Dubuque, Fort Dodge, Harlan, Iowa City, Mason City, Muscatine, Ottumwa, Panora and Spencer. Registration is open for all 2021 Walk to End Alzheimer’s®, and the Alzheimer’s Association invites you to join the fight to end Alzheimer’s by starting a team, inviting friends and family and walking with us in September and October.

On Walk day, participants honor those affected by Alzheimer’s with a special Promise Garden ceremony — a mission-focused experience that signifies our solidarity in the fight against the disease. The colors of the Promise Garden flowers represent people’s connection to Alzheimer’s — their personal reasons to end the disease. While plans are moving forward to host the Walk in-person, the health and safety of participants, staff and volunteers remain the top priorities as decisions are made about event details. Options will be offered to participate online and in local neighborhoods. “We are excited to see and walk with everyone in person again this year,” says Danielle Fuglsang, Director of Events for the Alzheimer’s Association Iowa Chapter. “More than ever, we need to come together to support all those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias. With the dollars raised, the Alzheimer’s Association provides care and support to families in Iowa while also advancing critical research toward methods of treatment and prevention.” More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease – a leading cause of death in the United States. Additionally, more than 11 million family members and friends provide care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In Iowa alone, there are more than 66,000 people living with the disease and 73,000 caregivers. To register and receive the latest updates on this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, visit: alz.org/walk. 37

COVID-19: Reverend Roderick Bradley, Founder, Urban Experience Magazine Doctors agree that masks are here to stay Dr. Clair Rudison Jr. Management Consultant. “More than ever, we need to come together to support all those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias. With the dollars raised, the Alzheimer’s Association provides care and support to families in Iowa while also advancing critical research toward methods of treatment and prevention.” - Danielle Fuglsang

Even among people vaccinated, experts recommend the continued use of masks. CDC and WHO have issued contradictory guidelines about masking rules for those who already got their vaccines. By: Jenny Manrique The reopening of the economy amid the pandemic has generated confusion among Americans about whether or not they should continue wearing masks. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says that vaccinated people can forgo the mask, while the World Health Organization (WHO) suggests that even those who have already received the double dose against COVID-19 should continue wearing them. There is no federal policy on this regard, and states and counties issue their own guidelines. Three medical experts speaking at a briefing hosted by Ethnic Media Services, warned that the masks are here to stay, especially given the rapid spread of the powerful Delta variant, one of the most contagious and deadly of the coronavirus strains identified so far. It is more transmissible than other variants such as P1 and Alpha, and even such diseases as smallpox. “The Delta variant is a 2.0 pandemic variant,” said Dr. Eric Feigl Ding, public health scientist who is currently a Senior Fellow at the Federation of American Scientists. “It is two times more transmissible than the oldest strain Wuhan 1.0, and it causes 4.9 times greater risk of hospitalization than the original strain ... Basically it’s faster, it’s more severe and it’s very vaccine evasive.” Delta is the dominant variant in the UK and India where COVID infections have skyrocketed. Since even those who have received too shots and gained immunity can still transmit the virus, giving up the masks is feeding the chain of contagion. “The science is really settled around masks,” Ding said. “Studies, including those from the CDC, show that masks help, especially if you double-mask, by reducing aerosols inhaled by somene else. The scientist emphasized that the best protection comes from the socalled premium masks most commonly used by medical personnel: K95, FFP2, N95, 3M. But using a double cloth mask considerably reduces the risks of contagion. The biggest debate now is about whether vaccinated people should continue to wear masks, and this answer depends on vaccine efficacy, which is increasingly being tested with the emergence of new variants. Doctors warn that the constant mutation of the virus will favor the appearance of other strains, because as long as herd immunity is not reached, the coronavirus will continue spreading. And herd immunity is an elusive goal in the United States where only half the population is vaccinated. In some counties vaccination rates are as low as 20%. “Anywhere that the virus is growing, whether it’s in a child or a young person, even if there is no disease, the virus is changing, so mutations will continue to accumulate indefinitely,” said Dr. Ben Neuman, Chief virologist at the Global Health Research Complex at Texas A&M University. “The more we let (the virus) mass infect and the less mitigation we take against it, it eventually will find an immunocompromised person or someone suffering from cancer, so we have another immune disorder or even worse mutations,” added Newman. In the last three weeks, COVID cases 39

have increased across the country. In South Los Angeles, only 40% of the population have received two doses of the vaccine. Dr. José Pérez, Chief Medical Officer at the South Central Family Health Center, said that to protect those unvaccinated, who are the majority, “even vaccinated people should be wearing masks, especially when they are going to be in contact with large groups.” Despite the severity of the Delta variant, the doctor says that the demand for vaccines in LA has dropped and that while the CDC “tries to make recommendations for an entire country,” medicine requires seeing each patient in their uniqueness, That makes it necessary to “adapt the message” for different populations and risks. “A lot of our patients suffer from anxiety and depression ... and we saw a tremendous drop in the number of people seeking mental health services because doctors wore masks,” Pérez said. “We implemented telehealth so they could see our faces because they felt that social cues were missed in these interactions… The message should be that the benefit of maybe missing some of that, is the fact that you prevent one, two, three, or 1000 deaths.” Back to school As a vaccine is not yet ready for children under the age of 12 - clinical trials are expected to be completed in late September and early October - there is concern about the interaction of students who may be carriers, with teachers and parents. The CDC has said that the reopening of schools depends on community transmission, without suggesting specific rules regarding vaccines, use of masks or minimum ventilation conditions. These decisions are left to the counties. “We really need masks for children,” said Dr. Ding. “But more than that, we need ventilation and air disinfection because we can’t always open windows (in classrooms) and you can’t just say that children are immune. That’s not true.” “The solution to an airborne transmission is air disinfection with HEPA and UVGI filters recommended by the CDC… All teachers can buy those for schools with money from the (federal) COVID relief package.” The scientists agreed that there are many theories circulating on social media promoted by the anti-vaccine movement or those who do not believe in the virus, which can influence people’s decisions. “I think the CDC is giving credibility to those who say we don’t need rules,” Dr. Ding added. “Local public health leaders need to understand that until vaccinations get high enough, we have to focus on other things like masking, ventilation, disinfection, contact tracing, and mass testing wherever there are hotspots.” Dr. Perez thinks that “every single American is hearing all these different voices, and they are going to choose one that fits them ... Hopefully the CDC will be a little more aggressive because although there are many people who might not like to hear the idea, I think masks are here to stay,” he concluded. Dr. Jose Perez, Chief Medical Officer, South Central Family Health Center; Dr. Ben Neuman, Chief Virologist, Global Health Research Complex at Texas A&M University

May life let you soar. You should have the peace of mind to fully live every moment of your life. So at Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield, we want you to know you can count on us to be with you when you need us most. Wellmark.com Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Iowa and Wellmark Health Plan of Iowa, Inc. are independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. 41

By Terence Haynes always I thought my vision was 20/20 but your beauty has blinded me. Your version of sun kissed mocha is exactly how I enjoy my Café au lait. Your eyes as they twinkle with evey flash of your gorgeous lashes reflect the passion in your heart like a mirror to your soul. Your tender words are a gauge to the depths of your love and your touch... ooh just the thought of its sends a magnetic pulse through me that draws me to you like a self portrait I see us. Me loving you and you loving me sounds easy like Sunday morning. Can’t explain the why, can’t describe the how. all I can articulate is to reciprocate everything I receive. The real words are silent verbs the action words, intentions, reactions, responses, my intentions always good, my reaction immediate, my response ALWAYS.

Press Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Emily Steele emily@desmoinesmc.com 641-780-1673 EARTHGANG, VanJess, Mick Jenkins and more to play at Riverview Music Festival DES MOINES (June 22, 2021) – Riverview Music Festival is bringing hip hop, R&B, and Latin pop to The Riviera amphitheater on Saturday, September 4. The first annual festival was created to celebrate the diversity of the Des Moines music scene alongside nationally recognized Black and Brown artists, while also establishing a new cultural landmark for live entertainment on the north side of Des Moines. This year’s festival goes beyond music with kid-friendly areas, local food vendors, and the Ziyad Lounge, a dedicated area to experience local brews and spirits. This year’s local artist lineup & vendors will be announced soon. The main stage will feature the Grammy nominated, Platinum selling hip hop and rap artists EARTHGANG as the headliner. The festival also features VanJess, a contemporary R&B duo whose album, Homegrown, was recently selected as one of Rolling Stone’s best albums of 2021, critically-acclaimed conceptual songwriter, Mick Jenkins, rising star known for his genre-bending sound, Duckwrth, magnetic violinist, vocalist and songwriter, Sudan Archives, and the talented, young Latin pop artist, YEИDRY. Tickets Tickets are on sale now for $35. Buy tickets at https://tickets.midwestix.com/event/riverview-music-festival-21 Check out the Spotify Playlist here! https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7zzJFKfgPA3gb4ltSKlVHa?si=4zd0Nr3tTJSqDmzKXlpi7g&nd=1&fbclid=IwAR0gffwKQNpKrl-iY6bYF1YZoG-p5e0kW6Y1e9G3EJJrMj7OpNdPxKiwCRQ Links Website - https://www.riverviewmusicfestival.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/riverviewmusicfestival Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/riverviewmusicfest/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/MusicRiverview

Interview Requests Contact Emily Steele at emily@desmoinesmc.com or 641-780-1673 to arrange any interviews with the DMMC team. Artist interview requests should be directed to the band’s publicist. About DMMC The Des Moines Music Coalition (DMMC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and collaborative movement committed to building a stronger and more diverse live music community in Greater Des Moines. Through our mission to support and cultivate Iowa’s music economy, our vision is to establish and maintain Des Moines as a nationally recognized music city. Learn more at http://desmoinesmc.com. Riverview Music Festival is made possible through support by volunteers, donors, and our generous sponsors, including Atlantic Coca Cola Bottling, Bankers Trust, Broadlawns, Coors Light, the Greater Des Moines Partnership, Peace Tree Brewing, and Meredith Corporation. 45

Let’s Support our Black Owned Businesses Bottle and Bottega James and Bridget Neely Wine & Painting https://www.bottleandbottega.com/des-moines/ This year The Urban Experience Magazine celebrates 5 years. This isn’t a list of all the Black owned businesses in our city. The businesses listed below have been either featured or supported the Urban Experience Magazine in the last five year. Put your business card in the Urban Experience Magazine for $25 a month for the first year. Reach out to us at: contactdsmurban@gmail.com for more details. Urban City Magazine Howell Dixon Magazine/Podcast https://urbancitymag.co/ Ruby B’s Catering Bradley Family Restaurant 515) 681-4028 https://www.facebook.com/ rubybskitchen/

Hip Hope, Inc Bo James https://hiphopeinc.wixsite.com/hiphopeinc Tranzitions Salon & Beauty Bar Ty Daye & Courtney Beauty Salon https://www.facebook.com/TranZitionsBeautySalon/ Roots to Branches Ricki King https://www.rootstobranchesgenealogy.com/ Black Women 4 Healthy Living Brandi Miller Health https://www.facebook.com/groups/ bw4hl/?ref=share MAV Nu Direction Calvetta Berry https://www.facebook.com/ma.vs.73 Iowa Juneteenth Observance Dwana Bradley www.iowajuneteenth.com Van Esther Vanessa Lewis www.vanesther.com Made Easley Advertising Ash Easley ww.madeeasley.com NAACP Des Moines Branch Kameron Middlebrooks https://www.naacpdesmoines.org/ NAACP Iowa/Nebraska Branch Betty Andrews www.iowanebraskanaacp.org SoulFit Zakiya English https://www.facebook.com/DsmSo www.imagezphotostudio.com (515) 223-6122 47

Angela Jackson’s Bio Debra Carr Bio Angela Jackson, Esq. is an Entrepreneur and owner of The Great Frame Up which is an Art Gallery and Custom Framing Business located in West Des Moines. She also is Senior Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Athene USA Corporation. Angela serves her community as Board Member of The West Des Moines Chamber, Des Moines Arts Festival, Cornerstone Family Church and an Honorary Board Member for Des Moines Performing Arts. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and The Des Moines Chapter of the Links, Incorporated. Angela is a Thought Leader and alumni of Washington University School of Law and Duke University. Debra Carr serves professionally and personally as a champion for diversity, inclusion, and equity. Uplifting women and girls to become the best version of themselves is foundational. Debra is Principal Consultant and owner of Carr and Associates and works full-time for Des Moines Public Schools consulting for building level administrators, faculty, and staff to achieve school improvement goals. Debra has received numerous awards and is a champion for her community in which she has served for many years. Gary Lawson’s Bio Gary Lawson is a freelance writer who focuses on various aspects of business and government. He earned a graduate degree in Government Administration, and an undergraduate degree in Business Administration with a duel concentration in Management and Marketing. He is a VietnamEra veteran who has served as a Commissioned Officer in the United States Army. In addition, he has taught business courses at Drake University and Des Moines Area Community College. C O NTRIB UT O RS Donetta Austin Marc Supreme’s Bio Marc Supreme is the program director for the urban a/c radio station, Strictly Hip Hop 90.7FM, in Peoria, IL. He is also a freelance journalist and commentator, covering politics and entertainment. Twitter & IG: @marc_supreme Clubhouse: @marcsupreme

Terence G. Haynes Bio Bert Moody Bio Terence G. Haynes is a Musician, Neo Renaissance Artisan, writer, 30-year career Chef and currently running for Omaha Nebraska City Council District 2 North Omaha. He is a community advocate and bridge builder, a motivational strategist/coach with a passion for people development and Diversity and inclusion champion. A strong faith and belief base in Christ that furnishes a wellgrounded ethical foundation. He has a team building approach to empowering individuals to believe in and think for themselves. He is a multi-faceted communicator, dedicated to making a positive difference in every life he touches. Bert Moody is a Photographer, an IT Consultant, and Web Designer for the Urban Experience Magazine. He has been with the magazine from its inception. He has been a Freelance Photographer in the Des Moines area since 1985, first with Esquire Photo Agency and now with Imagez Photo Studio (www. imagezphotostudio.com). He also is a longtime associate at Nationwide Insurance as is a part of their National Network of Black Associates. Bert volunteers for many activities in the community and is a Board member with The Des Moines Urban Experience. Bert is married with three grown children. C O NTRIB UT O RS Celeste Lawson’s bio Celeste Lawson is a freelance writer who focuses on various aspects of education and cultural diversity. She earned a graduate degree in Curriculum and Instruction, and an undergraduate degree in Elementary Education, with concentrations in English and Language Arts. In addition, she has more than 20 years of classroom experience with teaching students at the primary, secondary, and post-secondary levels. 49 Lori A. Young Bio Lori A. Young is a native of Des Moines and a graduate of Tech High School and Grand View University. Her professional experience lies in corporate internal and marketing communications. Currently she is self-employed on assignment with the non-profit organization, Just Voices Iowa, as a Communications Director and Project Manager. In her spare time, she’s a feature writer, artist, and community organizer/social activist fighting on issues such as racial, environmental, and economic justice for over 10 years.

Cleophus “Cleo” Franklin Jr.’s Bio Cleophus “Cleo” Franklin Jr.’s leadership expertise is globally recognized. His passion for designing robust business growth, brand strategies, and implementing innovative, disruptive business models have benefited many global businesses and industries. Franklin’s values and beliefs are centered on approaching difficult challenges with curiosity and a beginner’s mindset. He is a purpose-driven leader who embraces servant leadership and investing in the personal and professional development of the next generation of leaders. His leadership career spans over thirty years with John Deere, Case-New Holland, and Mahindra as a global executive. Franklin is a published author. His global leadership book Coffee with Cleo (coffeewithcleo.com) was launched in June 2020. His book highlights ten leadership lessons from his global business executive career. Through artful and engaging storytelling, it showcases how one can navigate challenges successfully in our ever-changing, fastpaced, and complex business world by using an innovative entrepreneurship mindset and proven framework to improve your livelihood, but more importantly, your life. Courageous Fire's Bio Negus Sankofa Imhotep’s Bio Courageous exited a 13-year intimate partner relationship because she discovered it was steeped in multiple abuses, including psychological, sexual, and spiritual. This experience made her not only want to learn how and why it happened to her, but how she and other Black sisters could avoid it in the future. Her gift of converting personal life experiences into educational currency is well proven; however, this time she believes it has led her to develop what may be the most important work in her 9 years of curriculum design and delivery - Empowerment through the Arts™. Black trauma-informed therapists recommend it and Black female focus group participants are finding the program’s gains to be sustainable. Courageous has begun the work in the community that interacts with the Black female survivor as well, bringing tools that allow them to see the Black female victimsurvivor’s needs and address them appropriately in her Awareness Education, Survivor Empowerment, and Community Support Training. She is thrilled to bring the work of Courageous Fire, LLC to the pages of the Urban Experience Magazine to keep growing the numbers of Black sisters that get the help they need. Stay Connected to Courageous: Website, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter C O NTRIB UT O RS Negus Sankofa Imhotep is the Academic & Workforce Coordinator at Urban Dreams and the Deferred Expulsion Case Manager for Des Moines Public Schools. In these roles, he has connected several of Central Iowa’s top employers with highly skilled untapped talent, assisted hundreds of marginalized central Iowans in securing gainful employment, and successfully advocated on behalf of more than 50 students who faced expulsion from the Des Moines Public School district. Negus is also a sought-after orator and community ally, having served as an Executive Board Member for the Iowa Human Rights Board, a past Chair and Commissioner of the Iowa Commission on the Status of African Americans. In 2015, Negus launched Rudison Consultancy Group, LLC to offer cultural community network advising and cultural competency training to agencies and organizations across the region. His commitment to educating emerging leaders is what led him to teaching positions at Hawkeye Community College and Joshua Christian Academy in 2013. Negus holds a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts with a concentration in Political Science from Excelsior College, a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Norwich University, and is currently writing his dissertation for a Doctorate in Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resource Management from Northcentral University.

Calling for Submissions The Urban Experience Magazine 51

YOUR HEALTH IS OUR PRIMARY CONCERN With five primary care clinics, Broadlawns ensures that high-quality, affordable, healthcare is accessible to all in our community. CITYVILLE FAMILY MEDICINE 580 SW 9th Street, Ste 100 Des Moines, IA 50309 (515) 282-2489 FAMILY HEALTH CENTER 1761 Hickman Road Des Moines, IA 50314 (515) 282-2334 PRIMARY CARE CLINIC 1801 Hickman Road Des Moines, IA 50314 (515) 282-2273 DALLAS CENTER FAMILY MEDICINE 507 14th Street Dallas Center, IA 50063 (515) 992-3711 EAST UNIVERSITY FAMILY MEDICINE 2508 E. University Avenue Des Moines, IA 50317 (515) 282-3278 All forms of insurance accepted. Call to schedule your appointment today!

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