UEM June 2024 : simplebooklet.com

3WRITERS & STAFFMAGAZINE OUTLETSCONTRIBUTORSAnkeny Kirkendall Library1250 SW District DriveAnkeny, Iowa 50023Altoona Public Library700 Eighth Street SWAltoona, Iowa 50009Central Library1000 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309DMACC Urban Campus1100 7th Street, Des Moines, IA 50314Eastside Library2559 Hubbell Ave. Des Moines, Iowa 50317Evelyn Davis Center801 Suite #3, University Ave, Des Moines IA 50314Forest Library1326 Forest Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314Franklin Library5000 Franklin Ave. Des Moines, Iowa 50310Johnston Library6700 Merle Hay Rd. Johnston, Iowa 50131Northside Library3516 5th Ave. Des Moines, Iowa 50313Neighborhood Finance4908 Franklin AvenueDes Moines, Iowa 50310Senior Polk County2008 Forest Ave, Des Moines IA 50314Slow Down Coffee Co.3613 6th Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50313Southside Library 1111 Porter Ave. Des Moines, Iowa 50315The Playhouse831 42nd Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50312The Zone of Comfort- Life Balance Center3829 71st Street B-1, Urbandale, Iowa 50322Urbandale Public Library3520 86th Street, Urbandale, IA 50322West Des Moines Library4000 Mills Clive Pkwy,West Des Moines, Iowa 50365Henderson's Highland Park Funeral Home3500 6th AvenueDes Moines. Iowa 50313Celeste LawsonDonnetta AustinCaleb Thomas Lenore Metrick-Chen Gianni BerryCourageous FireDebra Carr Gary LawsonBert Moody 29217Lori Young4 EDITORS MESSAGE6 TIME TO TAKE THAT VACATION10 THE GIFT OF AVAILABILITY 12 ARE YOU READY TO SAVE THE LIFE OF SOMEONE YOU LOVE16 JUNE IS ALZHEIMER'S AND BRAIN AWARENESS MONTH 20 FACTS ABOUT JUNETEENTH22 GENERAL CHAIRPERSON MESSAGE IOWA JUNETEENTH26 WHAT'S THE COST OF U.S. STUDENT LOAN DEBT30 COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT*PHOTO CREDIT FOR STOCK PHOTOS THROUGHOUT THE PUBLICATION - PEXELS AND FREEPIKSUMMARYCreative Director Nikki Goldman LosRos GraphixLosRos.comEditor-In-Chief Dwana Bradley

Page 3

Page 4

5GET THEURBANEXPERIENCEJune has arrived, signaling the time to honor Juneteenth. Serving as General Chairperson since 2015 has been an honor. I often recount how I became the custodian of Iowa Juneteenth without prior knowledge of its existence. It seems many are still unfamiliar with Juneteenth. To clarify, Juneteenth is not a political entity, harbors no ulterior motives, and is not exclusively a celebration for Black people. Juneteenth celebrates our culture, history, and the legacies of our forebears who laid the foundations of what is now the United States of America. This year and the next, Iowa Juneteenth will concentrate on the three R's: Remembering our History, Releasing the Past, and Reshaping our Future. Acknowledging our history is vital, including recognizing inventors like Alexander Miles, who patented the mechanism for automatic elevator doors, and Marie Van Brittan Brown, who, with her husband, developed a video home security system. We must honor those who have significantly shaped our identity. Releasing our Past is perhaps the most daunting task. The past was not always kind, and the narratives of Black people's treatment, passed down through generations, are disturbing. While it's important not to forget, harboring the associated pain and anger can hinder progress. Healing from trauma is a gradual process, and it is my hope that we find ways to address the longstanding suffering. Reshaping our Future is about unity and collaboration. Isolation can be lonely, but by working together strategically, we can improve the prospects for Black communities for generations to come.I look forward to seeing you at the many Iowa Juneteenth 2024 events at www.iowajuneteenth.org Blessings,Dwana Bradley

Page 5

Page 6

7Hello Urban Experience Readers, Happy Juneteenth, it is hard to believe we are halfway through the year. I want to take time to say: Congratulations to all the High School and College Seniors who have graduated. As we celebrate Juneteenth this month, let us share our memories and remember those who have gone on before us, who gave so much so we can have more ﬂexibility to go beyond our borders. The month of June is big for traveling and starting summer vacations. I want to encourage you to take some time with your family and go on a vacation. That’s right, a vacation, meaning you take some time to spend with family away from home, do some fun things, enjoy a few days of doing something very dierent from the normal day to day strains of life. Everyone deserves a break from the year round of working and never getting away. I can recall taking family trips with my mom and older brother, we didn’t take any extravagant trips, but I recognized as a kid what a blessing it was to go to Chicago or Kansas City on a bus. The most important enjoyment was getting away. This is something I encourage you to do, you may be thinking, “hey I don’t have money to take a trip”. Well, please allow me to oer a few suggestions to consider. Whether it’s an hour away or hundreds of miles away, you owe it to yourself. Traveling doesn’t have to be as costly as it once was, I’ve always been one to look for a bargain, and discounts. One suggestion is using airline miles, this works out by having a credit card you can use to earn airline miles. (Please note, if you use credit cards always use them responsibly and pay them o as soon as possible, don’t delay). It also builds your credit for other things you may consider doing such as buying a house, the credit score is what many lending institutions relay on. Some credit cards will allow you to travel for free based o how many airline miles you have earned. Just as there are airline miles there are also credit cards that you can earn points for hotels. Now if you avoid using credit cards another option is to think about working a part-time job at a hotel or an airline. If you work at a hotel, you can save anywhere from 50-70% o a regular hotel stay not just in the United States but other destinations around the world you may have dreamed of traveling to, such as the Caribbeans or other overseas areas. Then there is the old-fashioned way of saving a little from each paycheck and saving for that much needed and deserved vacation. You can make it a fun project by allowing the kids to put some funding in, knowing it’s for a family get away. If you work for an airline, guess what? You get to ﬂy for free and you get so many free passes to travel per year for you and your family. These types of ﬂights are known as stand-by ﬂights TIME TO TAKE THAT VACATION!Mental Health:Written by: Caleb Thomas, M.A. LMHC

Page 7

Page 8

9and if there are open seats you ﬂy for free. Now if you are ﬂying out of the country there is a signiﬁcant discount. You may be thinking I don’t have time to go and work for a hotel or an airline, I understand, however if you don’t, think about a friend or a family member you know who works for a hotel. Many people working for these hotels and airlines that have privileges, but they may not take advantage of them, or they may have a lot left over and are willing to share them with you. Many airlines give their workers so many passes to ﬂy for free and so many hotel discounts per year, think about this; most people travel about 1-2 times a year, so they will have some extra passes to give away.So, remember to take time out for yourself, you deserve some rest and relaxation, now is the time to plan for that much needed vacation. I’ve given you some cost-eective ways to help decrease the cost of a planned vacation. Now take that vacation you’ve been waiting for, and remember you don’t have to start out big, perhaps it’s a bus ride to your next town or next state, you choose. Keep in mind, you’ve already worked hard 6 months out of the year, it’s time to go and enjoy some time away, get refreshed so you can enjoy the rest of the year. I also want to remind you if not a summer vacation, take a winter vacation, there are beneﬁts to that as well. Whether you’re traveling alone or with your family, the memories are priceless and last a lifetime. I was only able to take a few trips with my mom because of ﬁnances, but I still have those fond memories and appreciation because I knew it was more than a privilege that mom could aord to take us on a vacation. My mom worked hard and saved for those bus rides out of town, I’m forever grateful to my mom. So now that I have kids, I get to continue the memories my mom started by taking my family on vacations. So be blessed and have a wonderful vacation. As always please know we are just a phone call away. Blessings,Caleb Thomas M.A. LMHC319 206-0651caleb@thomasacc.comthomasacc.comThomas & Associates Counseling & ConsultingCounseling with a God given purpose!

Page 9

Page 10

11The Gift of AvailabilityWritten By: Donnetta AustinSpiritualityThe Gift of AvailabilityDo you have a heart for helping people?Is your day lled with many things on your agenda with very little time to yourself or anyone else?Do you feel burnout?Life might seem a little complex and challenging to handle.Have you ever thought or realized that you are the blessing? Just from being involved or a part of a solution bigger than yourself.You have the opportunity of being an example. Your life experiences can minister to someone else. You can be used by God for his ultimate kingdom purpose. Your story can be life changing.When you make room and set God as a priority. He works through you to give you the abilities to do outreach and stretch to new heights, creative ideas and soar.In the Bible 1 Peter 4:10 NIV it reads:Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.Philippians 2:13 NIVFor it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulll his good purpose.Ephesians 5:15-16 NIVBe very careful, then, how you live- not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. Philippians 2:13

Page 11

Page 12

13of Lifesavers and commit to make CPR and AED awareness and education a permanent xture in all communities across the country.The Association is committed to turning a nation of bystanders into lifesavers. The new multi-year initiative will ensure teens and adults can learn about CPR and AED use, share that knowledge with friends and family and engage employers, policymakers, philanthropists and others to create support for a nation of lifesavers. The long-term goal: to ensure that in the face of a cardiac emergency, anyone, anywhere is prepared and empowered to perform CPR and become a vital link in the chain of survival.One way to become prepared and empowered is to learn Hands-Only CPR. Hands-Only CPR is chest compression only CPR. Science has shown that following a witnessed cardiac arrest of a teen or an adult, compression-only CPR can be equally effective in the rst few minutes of emergency response. If a teen or adult suddenly collapses, witnesses should immediately call emergency services and begin chest compressions at a rate of 100-120 beats per minute and a depth of at least two inches. Everyone, regardless of where they live, can take 90 seconds to learn how to save a life at heart.org/HandsOnlyCPR.This simple act can have a profound impact on a cardiac arrest victim. CPR, especially if performed immediately, can double or triple a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival – which is key since about 90% of people who suffer out-of-hospital cardiac arrests die.So this June, if asked ‘are you ready to save the life of someone you love?’ make sure your answer is YES.AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATIONBy: American Heart Association NewsAre you ready to save the life of someone you love? Think of someone in your life you love. Your mom. Your dad. Your spouse. Your child. A friend. Now, imagine their life was in danger due to cardiac arrest. Would you know what to do? Would you be ready to save the life of someone you love? Unfortunately, the answer for most Americans is “no.” Seven in 10 people say they feel powerless to act in the face of a cardiac emergency. As a result, less than half of all people who need CPR receive this lifesaving act from a bystander before professional help arrives. These seconds and minutes are crucial and can be the difference between life and death. Odds are the person who needs help will be a loved one.More than 70% of the 350,000 cardiac arrests that occur outside of a hospital every year, happen in a familiar setting: the home. That means if you are called upon to perform CPR, it will likely be on someone you love. Your mom. Your dad. Your spouse. Your child. A friend.June is CPR and AED Awareness Month, a chance to highlight how lives can be saved if more Americans know CPR and how to use an AED (automated external debrillator). This year, the American Heart Association is challenging everyone to join the Nation

Page 13

Page 14

Page 15

Page 16

17HOW TO TAKECHARGE1.4.2.5.3.6.7.ADOPTHEALTHY AHABITSVOLUNTEERGOPURPLEADVOCATEJOINTHEFIGHTACCELERATERESEARCHDONATEALZHEIMERALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION: IOWA CHAPTERBy Alzheimer’s AssociationJUNE IS ALZHEIMER’S AND BRAIN AWARENESS MONTHDuring Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, the Alzheimer’s Association encourages you to take charge of your brain health. Each year in June, people across the world raise awareness and show support for the over 50 million individuals worldwide living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias for Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. This June, the Alzheimer’s Association is encouraging you to take charge of your brain health to help decrease your chance of developing Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Whatever your age or stage of life, there are so many reasons to take charge of your brain health today. Age is the biggest risk factor for developing Alzheimer’s disease, and the lifetime risk for Alzheimer's at age 45 is 1 in 5 for women and 1 in 10 for men. While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, science shows that adopting healthy habits may help reduce the risk of dementia.As many as 40% of dementia cases may be attributable to modifiable risk factors, such as high blood pressure and lack of physical activity. Research shows that adopting healthy behaviors — like getting exercise and good quality sleep — may reduce the risk of cognitive decline. The Alzheimer’s Association leads and funds groundbreaking research that has shown that healthy habits are good for the brain. This includes the U.S. POINTER study, which tests the effectiveness of healthy lifestyle interventions for preventing dementia in 2,000 at-risk American adults. Keep reading to find out where you can learn about 10 healthy habits to adopt for your brain health.Early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s is more important than ever as well. Only half of those with Alzheimer’s disease ever receive a diagnosis, delaying needed care and potentially putting them at risk. Early detection of Alzheimer's or another dementia offers significant benefits for the person diagnosed and their loved ones, including greater access to treatment options and the ability to plan for the future. Talk to your doctor about getting your cognitive health tested, or call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-272-3900 if you have questions or aren’t sure where to start when it comes to early detection.Here are a few things you can do to take charge of your brain health and join the Alzheimer’s Association in the fight to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia:

Page 17

Page 18

19FOR TICKETS AND MORE INFO: DMMO.ORG / (515) 209-32572024 FESTIVAL SEASON June 28 - July 21THE BARBER OF SEVILLE by Gioachino Rossini SALOME by Richard StraussPELLÉAS & MÉLISANDE by Claude DebussyAMERICAN APOLLO by Damien Geter and Lila Palmer Justin Austin (pictured) as Thomas Eugene McKellerWORLD PREMIERE AMERICAN APOLLODAMIEN GETER AND LILA PALMERHERE ARE A FEW THINGS YOU CAN DO TO TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR BRAIN HEALTH AND JOIN THE ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION IN THE FIGHT TO END ALZHEIMER’S AND ALL OTHER DEMENTIA: Adopt the 10 Healthy Habits: It is never too early or too late to start taking positive actions for your brain. Visit alz.org/healthyhabits to learn more! Go purple: Throughout the month of June, go purple — the color of the Alzheimer’s movement — to raise awareness of the disease. Dress in purple and share your story on social media using the hashtag #ENDALZ.e. Join the fight: Advance the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association by participating in our signature fundraising events — Walk to End Alzheimer’s®, The Longest Day® and Ride to End ALZ®. Visit alz.org/fundraisingevents. Volunteer with us: As an Alzheimer’s Association volunteer, you can help people in your community take steps to reduce their dementia risk and recognize the signs of Alzheimer’s. Visit alz.org/volunteer. Advocate: Urge lawmakers to pass the bipartisan BOLD Reauthorization Act, to continue strengthening the dementia public health infrastructure in communities nationwide. Visit alzimpact.org/BOLD_Reauthorization.  Accelerate research: Alzheimer’s Association TrialMatch® is a free, easy-to-use service that connects individuals living with Alzheimer's, caregivers and healthy volunteers to clinical trials that may advance Alzheimer's research. Visit alz.org/trialmatch Donate: Empower people at every age and stage of life to take charge of their brain health — support the Alzheimer’s Association! Visit alz.org/donate. ALZHEIMER

Page 19

Page 20

Page 21

Page 22

23Thank you to all sponsors and members of our community for making Iowa Juneteenth Observance 2023 a success. We had a wonderful time celebrating our past, reecting over the present and planning our future. Consider giving to the organization today. Your donation will be used to further the mission which is to provide education in African American culture and history, collaborating with like-minded organizations to cultivate awareness of our contributions. The theme for Iowa Juneteenth 2024-2025 is to focus on the three R’s, Remembering our history, Releasing the past, and Reshaping our future. The events we have in 2024 and 2025 will be aligned to our theme. The Des Moines Urban Experience looks forward to bringing you events over the next two years, and beyond which will educate, elevate, and empower individuals and our community.Remembering our historyReleasing the pastReshaping our futureTHE THREE R'S123A MESSAGE FROM OUR GENERAL CHAIRPERSON:DWANA BRADLEYIOWAJUNETEENTHOBSERVANCEGeneral ChairpersonDwana Bradley

Page 23

Page 24

25Got an Event?We do Ctering!CONTACT US TODAY! 515-770-2271 • RUBYBSKITCHEN.COMPROUD TO SUPPORT THE Iowa Juneteenth Neighbor's Day celebrationwellabe.com© 2024 Wellabe, Inc. All rights reserved.IOWA JUNETEENTH’SNEIGHBOR’S DAY CELEBRATIONA CENTURY OF CARINGOn Juneteenth, Broadlawns honors those who did not live to see their freedom from enslavement and celebrates the communities they birthed. We are proud to remember a female pioneer in Broadlawns 100-year-history, Gwendolyn Wilson Fowler. Fowler was Broadlawns rst female and Black pharmacist, and was recently added to the Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families Wall of Excellence.Dr. Mary Chapman, VP Emeritus and Dr. Rob Denson, DMACC President, present the unveiling of Gwendolyn Wilson Fowler’s Wall of Excellence photo.As a part of a sacred Catholic health care Ministry, MercyOne works to remove barriers, address patient needs, uplift and understand our communities while establishing the quality of care to tell our story. MercyOne.orgThe Sisters of Mercy, who founded MercyOne’s health care system, had an absolute commitment to deliver exceptional care and improve the quality of life for all. MercyOne continues this Value of reverence and dedication to the individuality of every colleague, patient and community member by providing a culturally welcoming environment which promotes health and healing for all.

Page 25

Page 26

27Written By: Selen OzturkEMS CONTRIBUTORWhat’s the Cost of U.S. Student Debt?As nearly 45 million Americans and counting owe over $1.7 trillion in student debt, what’s the future of college affordability?As nearly 45 million Americans and counting owe over $1.7 trillion in student debt, what’s the future of college affordability?Though the Biden administration has made historic strides in passing student loan forgiveness initiatives, ongoing lawsuits by Republican-majority states and a possible change of White House leadership this election year threatens their survival.Meanwhile, the lifting of pandemic-era freezes to federal student loan payment forces borrowers nationwide to choose once again between greater debt or affording basic needs — underscoring the importance of forgiveness programs.At an Ethnic Media Services briefing, student loan experts and a borrower who got over $100,000 in student loans forgiven explained what forgiveness programs have been launched and expanded under the Biden administration, which have been cut, and what’s next for student loans.STUDENT DEBT RELIEF UNDER BIDENThe Biden administration has approached debt relief in two ways: through broad relief, by approving “upwards of $153 billion in student loan forgiveness for around 4.3 million borrowers,” and through targeted relief, by reforming existing programs, said student loan lawyer and author Adam Minsky.Efforts to provide relief have met with staunch political opposition, however. The administration’s first attempt would have forgiven up to $20,000 in federal student loan debt for millions of borrowers per the Heroes Act of 2003, which let the Education Department enact waive federal loan program regulations “in response to economic harm caused by a national emergency — in this case, the pandemic,” Minsky said. Adam Minsky, student loan lawyer and author, explains Biden’s latest plan to provide student-loan debt relief, including the five pathways for borrowers to get relief.This was challenged by a coalition of Republican-majority states led by Nebraska and Missouri, and was struck down by the conservative-majority Supreme Court last June on the grounds that mass debt forgiveness was not expressly mentioned in the act.The administration’s current, second attempt at broad relief involves a separate legal authority — the Higher Education Act, “which does expressly allow for the waiver or cancellation of student loan debt, although it’s only been used in limited circumstances to date,” explained Minsky. “The program could go live for borrowers as early as the fall, but most people expect this will be challenged in court as well, though it stands a stronger chance of surviving a legal challenge.”Other, targeted initiatives include the IDR Account Adjustment giving forgiveness credit to borrowers unable to pay income-driven loan plans in 20 or 25 years; the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program providing forgiveness in as little as 10 years to borrowers who work for nonprofit or government organizations; and the Save Plan, exempting borrowers earning below a certain income for payment and shortening the forgiveness timeline for some earning above it. Many of these initiatives have also met with opposition. For instance, the Save Plan, in which at least eight million borrowers have enrolled, “is subject to two new, separate lawsuits brought by 18 Republican states, including some of those that blocked Biden’s first mass debt relief plan,” said Minsky. “A common criticism is that these programs are unfair to people who have already paid their debt,” he added. “But people saved for retirement

Page 27

Page 28

29on their own all their lives before Social Security came around, and we still implemented it. You could argue it was unfair to them, but we still generally think the measure was positive.”THE LANDSCAPE FOR BORROWERS“We’re seeing significant government actions to address the student debt crisis, but the effect of this is that borrowers are confused about whether or not they will be receiving forgiveness, what the parameters are, who is eligible, and what the consequences are for non-payment,” said Michele Shepard Zampini, Senior Director of College Affordability at The Institute for College Access and Success. Michele Shepard Zampini, TICAS Senior Director of College Affordability, discusses profit motives in the student loan industry, and explains why we need to examine the role of colleges in student debt and the student loan industry.In a decisive election year, tens of millions of borrowers are also transitioning from the unprecedented pandemic payment clause — which, through March 2020 through fall 2023, exempted federal student loan payment and interest accrual — back into payment.For many of these borrowers, “monthly payments are too high for them to afford. Basic living expenses like rent, food, child care, health care, or transportation are competing with loan bills,” Zampini explained. While 92% to 93% of outstanding student debt is federal, many of those with non-federal, private or state loans “are not eligible for these relief initiatives at all.”“If Biden is reelected, I think the administration will continue to try and expand these initiatives,” she continued. “If it changes, we’ve heard the platform from the other side: not to invest in these student aid programs, or even overturn them. Many of these programs are not ensured by law. They’re dependent on who is in the White House — so the stakes are very high for future students, and for those who have debt now.”THE IMPACT OF STUDENT DEBT AND RELIEFFor borrowers with snowballing interest, debt relief can be the difference between retiring at all and working for life.“In 1990 I moved to Florida from Venezuela, where I was a physician with a master’s degree in ear, nose and throat surgery,” said Virginia Brown, a 72 year old recently retired mental health social worker. “I spoke English, I was a citizen, and I couldn’t find a good job. Finally, I went to school for professional mental health counseling — I always loved helping people.” Virginia Brown, a mental health counselor and social worker, explains how she was eventually able to get her student loan forgiven. Brown recently retired and was able to move closer to her family thanks to debt forgiveness.“Already having a master’s, I couldn’t go back to a bachelor’s or find an affordable alternative, so I took out a loan to go to Orlando Rollins, a private college,” she continued. “People said ‘You’re going to get into all this debt,’ but it was the only choice.” “Afterward I had two, three jobs at a time working in nonprofit social service, but interest grew the debt beyond $100,000 even as I was paying. Day-to-day, I had to choose between paying up to $900 a month on a loan or the power bill, and I couldn’t afford moving closer to my family in Jersey City, where I am now,” she said.“I found out I was able to get my debt forgiven in 10 years through the PSLF program, by transferring my loan from private to federal and continuing to work in nonprofits,” Brown explained. “In mid-2021 I got an email saying it was forgiven, and I couldn’t believe it. I sent it to my son wondering if I was dreaming.” “I had jobs that I liked, providing an important social service to the community, but due to student loans I was stuck geographically and professionally,” she added. “Without that relief, I wouldn’t have been able to retire or live close to my family. Debt forgiveness is life-changing.”

Page 29

Page 30

31SpotlightCommunityDes Moines Public Schools FoundationDes Moines Public Schools FoundationPhoto and Article Credit: Des Moines Public SchoolDes Moines Public Schools is the largest school district in Iowa, with students representing 88 countries and a poverty rate of more than 74 percent. The DMPS Foundation recognizes the importance of varied learning levels and the need to engage the whole child to foster high achievement in all areas of learning. The Foundation works to support the goals and objectives of Des Moines Public Schools, which aim to provide the best opportunity for all students to be prepared to meet the demands of our future work force.OneRun 2024The 5th annual District-wide OneRun fundraiser will be held at Water Works Park on Saturday, September 21, 2024, with check-in between 8:00-8:45 a.m. The event is a 2-mile fun run/walk with an option to cheer on the sidelines as a supporter! Registration is free for everyone; participation is what will send funds to each school.Register Here!Event fees will be paid by corporate and individual sponsors. Once participation totals are tallied, the money raised will be sent directly to the schools. Each participant may designate one school. The more participants and donations, the more money to the schools!Click here if you’d like to help sponsor the event.Thank you to these Sponsors for the 2023 event.Spotligtht

Page 31

Page 32

Page 33

Page 34

Page 35

Page 36

37Summer SeriesSummer SeriesWalk and Stretch at Prospect Park 0.5mi walk with stretching after - bring a mat!Dates: Tuesdays June 18th-July 30th Time: 6:00pm - 7:15pm Location: 1225 Prospect Park, Des Moines (we will meet at the boat ramp)Cost: FreeWater Aerobics with Zakiya - NorthWestAquatics PoolSaturday Sundays Monday Tuesday Friday Thursday No Class Wednesday June 5thLocation: 4915 Madison AveCost: FreeJune 1st & June 8th 10:30-11:30amJune 2nd - June 30th 5:30-6:30pmJune 3rd - 12-1pm & 6:45-7:30pmJune 4th - 12-1pm & 6:45-7:30pmJune 7th 12-1pm & 6:45-7:30pmJune 6th 12-1pmJoin us for our annual Summer Series! This year we’re doing 3 different events.Come for stretching in the park, chairexercises, or water aerobics. Bring your mat (or use one of our donatedmats) Attend one of each ofthese class for a FREE T-shirt!Chair Exercises with Zakiya - Forest Avenue LibraryDates: July 10th-August 14thTime: 5:30pm-6:15pmLocation: 1326 Forest Ave, Des MoinesCost: FreeJune 20 - 23 | DES MOINES CIVIC CENTERDMPA.org · (515) 246-2300 · Civic Center Ticket OceWe honor Juneteenth by acknowledging our history as we continue to strive for racial and health equity.The well-being of our communities depends on the equitable treatment of all people in our society. Juneteenth is an opportunity for us all to talk, learn and take action to address the disparities caused by racism that continue to harm public health.We’ve made progress, but racism remains a public health crisis.Together, let us honor and learn from the resilience, strength and determination of those who fought for freedom as we strive for a brighter tomorrow, where all people in all communities experience equity.Learn more at stophiviowaplan.org

Page 37

Page 38

39SUPPORT FOR THIS EXHIBITION PROVIDED BYFirelei Báez (born 1981) / roots when they are young and most tender, 2018 (detail)Mixed-media installation; two paintings, hand painted papier-mâché sculptures, hand painted tarp, chicken wire and foliage / Dimensions variable Rennie Collection, Vancouver© Firelei Báez; Image courtesy of the Artist, Kavi Gupta, Chicago and Rennie Collection, Vancouver; Photography by John LusisHURRICANE SEASONCARIBBEAN ART +CLIMATECHANGEJUNE 8 – SEPTEMBER 22, 2024ANNA K. MEREDITH GALLERY AND THROUGHOUT THE MUSEUM OPENING CELEBRATION FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2024DESMOINESARTCENTER.ORGDriven to do more for our customers and our communities.24794 (04/24)Learn how Athene gives back to our communities. Athene.com/DoMore>• ipr.org • 90.1 fm • ipr app Empowering futures. Changing lives.Sammons Financial Group is deeply committed to the communities we serve. This month, we proudly celebrate Juneteenth – that day in the summer of 1865 marking the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. We recognize June 19 as a pivotal date in all of our American history.Working together, we stand with each of our employees in a constant quest for equity and justice for all Americans.Please join us in our support and recognition of Juneteenthsammonsfinancialgroup.com @sammonsfinancialgroup /company/sammons-financial-groupSammons Financial® is the marketing name of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. and its member companies. Sammons Financial Group is comprised of North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, Midland National® Life Insurance Company, Sammons Institutional Group, Inc. and Sammons Financial Network® LLC, member FINRA. Annuities and life insurance are issued by either Midland National Life Insurance Company or North American Company for Life and Health Insurance; product guarantees are solely the responsibility of the issuing life insurance company.Do you want to be on the cover or centerfold? Sponsor an edition of Urban Experience MaGazine!Contact us today: iaurbanmedia18@gmail.comMake a plan Make a plan to vote.to vote.Primary Election Primary Election is June 4.is June 4.STRONG. SECURE. FAIR.Visit www.sos.iowa.gov FOR ALL your voting and election information

Page 39

Page 40

41GreenState has consistently ranked in the top 1% nationally for returning earnings to members in the form of better rates on loans and deposits.800-397-3790GreenState.orgRewards Checking • CDs & IRAs • Money MarketsInsurance • Home / Auto Loans • Credit CardsInvestments & Trust Services • Business LoansAs a financial cooperative, GreenState’s cooperative structure benefits everyone. Through competitive pricing and low fees, millions of dollars each year goes back into the pockets of members. Even non-members benefit from the competitive financial services landscape in our state.*Data provided by Callahan and Associates 12/31/23FINANCIALINSTITUTIONRANK(9,343 U.S. Institutions)GreenState 22US Bank 5,389Chase 5,834Wells Fargo 7,7 5 6Embracing a culture for allNationwide is a proud sponsor of the Iowa Juneteenth ObservanceAn inclusive workplace is crucial to our success. We foster an inclusive culture that supports every associate’s success and encourages an environment where they are appreciated, respected and engaged. To learn how Nationwide values diversity, equity and inclusion, visit nationwide.com/diversity. Nationwide, the Nationwide N and Eagle and Nationwide is on your side are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2024 Nationwide CPR-1155AO.1 (05/24)www.iowajuneteenth.orgGreenState.orgMORTGAGELENDERIN IOWAFLOORING ❘ APPLIANCES ❘ ELECTRONICS 15500 Hickman Rd, Clive, IA515-727-6500 nfm.com©2023 Nebraska Furniture Mart, IncAs a force for equity in our community, NFM is a proud sponsor of Iowa Juneteenth Observance’s Neighbor’s Day Celebration A credit union forEVERYONEveridiancu.org/inclusionEmpowering our employees, our members and our communities.

Page 41

Page 42

43BE INFORMEDBE AN ADVOCATESURVIVEWhy is Cardiovascular Genetic Screening Important?Everyone has a heart: Take Care of Yours & Live Your Best Life!More than 1 in every 200 people have an inherited heart disease.Inherited heart diseases are the leading causes of sudden death in young people.Inherited gene abnormality does not automatically result in heart disease. Knowing your risk can help you understand and manage your health.! ! !Learn your risk for heart diseaseIf any family member experienced heart disease or any of the below health issues, consider genetic and clinical screening.Beneﬁts of Genetic & Clinical ScreeningHeart failure (younger than 60 years old)Implantable cardioverter deﬁbrillator (ICD) or pacemaker implant (younger than 50 years old)Heart transplant (younger than 60 years old)Unexplained seizures or seizures with normal neurological evaluationUnexplained cardiac arrest(s) or sudden deathExercise intoleranceSudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)Untreated LDL (low-density lipoprotein) known as bad cholesterol ≥ 190Multiple family members with congenital heart defectsWest African Ancestry in your familyDiagnosed with carpel tunnel syndromeDetect heart disease that did not show up in routine health exams. Early detection may prevent heart complications.Make informed decisions about heart health, including treament options.Help identify the cause of a heart condition or other health issues.Educate family members who may be at risk of heart disease.Learn about the chance that a pregnancy will lead to genetic condition.The average cost of genetic testing is $250The average out-of-pocket cost is $100This work was supported through theMIHF HealthConnect Fellowship.JOIN UNITED 55+JOIN UNITED 55+LIVEUNITEDBook BuddyA reading program that pairs volunteers with preschoolers for regular reading. The caring adult reads in person to the student at a local childcare center. You may pair up with a friend to share this weekly volunteer opportunity. Orientation & training provided.Power ReadVolunteer reading mentors are matched one-to-one with a student for about an hour each week and together they read and engage in conversation. Programs take place during the student’s lunch period at various Des Moines elementary schools. Orientation & training provided.Not New ShopCharity shop volunteers needed to Sort, size, and mark donated items according to suggested price list, using good judgment regarding discards. Assist customers with purchases, ring up sales, keep shop in order. Training provided.HOPE for the Holidays Donation DriveThe holidays are upon us! We are collecting cleaning products and gift cards for HOPE for Stable Families. This program works with families to set goals, remove barriers, and use available community resources to create long-term ﬁnancial stability for them and their children. For information about the program or how to donate, visit https://www.unitedwaydm.org/hope-for-the-holidaysHoliday Helping HandLooking for ways to give back this holiday season? Check out United Way of Central Iowa’s Volunteer hub. Head to the Holiday Helping Hand Guide tab to see opportunities around Central Iowa. Check back often as opportunities will continually be added through the end of the year. Visit https://volunteer.unitedwaydm.org/need/ for more information.Current & UpcomingVolunteer OpportunitiesTo register, scan the QR codeor visit:unitedwaydm.org/united55 Contact, Lynne MelssenAmeriCorps Seniors Program Directorat lynne.melssen@unitedwaydm.orgor 515-246-6544 Many believe that a meaningful life is not complete without the fulﬁllment that comes from helping others. If you're ready to take your commitment to the community to the next level, while meeting new people and gaining new experiences, UNITED 55+ is for you!

Page 43

UEM June 2024

Page 1

Page 2