׉?4ׁB!בCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://pzPZxjFzGJNGz7cYDL3FvIJL27OjY8MH7cG_2yWf3i8$`׉ 7cassandra://JtFM58XHdWUKuYAqX9tquXs1Tijt6m0vfViG-UT2Svoz`s׉ 7cassandra://5T5XetN35O-qH3m5FWLIH2MErWRMcqevyprYy-U0oCs+`eW[W1rט(u׈ÂeRN׈EeV[W1=׉EMarch 2024 WHAT IS FRONTOTEMPORAL DEMENTIA? SPEAKING LIFE Women’s History Month highlights the reality of heart disease THIS EDITION OF URBAN EXPERIENCE MAGAZINE IS BROUGHT YOU BY: 1 ׉ 7cassandra://5T5XetN35O-qH3m5FWLIH2MErWRMcqevyprYy-U0oCs+`eV[W1>eV[W1=(בCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://Lj8ukyFFHQDE7QW03vsJgqNClxYcqWG0lCzkwqrdi980`iq׉ 7cassandra://ys_kK29-16UgopTEwYHgigFZfUC-9Qt0gX2boK2atKgϷ`׉ 7cassandra://MtBePBItHoF96xvVIUtsd7GuNTqZcTQ67YIMfhzQGHIF+`eW[W1uנeW[W1|؁T 9ׁHhttp://LosRos.comׁ ׁ Ј׉EWRITERS & STAFF CONTRIBUTORS Donnetta Austin Debra Carr Courageous Fire Celeste Lawson Gary Lawson Caleb Thomas Lenore Metrick-Chen Editor-In-Chief Dwana Bradley Creative Director Nikki Goldman LosRos Graphix LosRos.com Gianni Berry Bert Moody Lori Young MAGAZINE OUTLETS Ankeny Kirkendall Library 1250 SW District Drive Ankeny, Iowa 50023 Altoona Public Library 700 Eighth Street SW Altoona, Iowa 50009 Central Library 1000 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309 DMACC Urban Campus 1100 7th Street, Des Moines, IA 50314 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 Forest Library 1326 Forest Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314 Franklin Library 5000 Franklin Ave. Des Moines, Iowa 50310 Johnston Library 6700 Merle Hay Rd. Johnston, Iowa 50131 Northside Library 3516 5th Ave. Des Moines, Iowa 50313 Neighborhood Finance 4908 Franklin Avenue Des Moines, Iowa 50310 Ruby B's Kitchen 4121 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, Iowa 50321 Senior Polk County 2008 Forest Ave, Des Moines IA 50314 Slow Down Coffee Co. 3613 6th Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50313 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 Playhouse 831 42nd Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50312 The Zone of Comfort - Life Balance Center 3829 71st Street B-1, Urbandale, Iowa 50322 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 Henderson's Highland Park Funeral Home 3500 6th Avenue Des Moines. Iowa 50313 ׉ 7cassandra://MtBePBItHoF96xvVIUtsd7GuNTqZcTQ67YIMfhzQGHIF+`eV[W1?׉EeSUMMARY 4 EDITORS MESSAGE 6 IS PORN A PROBLEM IN YOUR LIFE 10 SPEAKING LIFE 12 COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT 15 WHAT IS FRONTOTEMPORAL DEMENTIA 4 12 26 *PHOTO CREDIT TO PEXELS AND FREEPIK 3 18 ATHENE BLACK AND BROWN BUSINESS SUMMIT 26 WHAT IS SAFER FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SURVIVORS: HOME OR THE STREETS 31 WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH HIGHLIGHTS THE REALITY OF HEART DISEASE eV[W1@eV[W1?(בCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://tQFmEPEBXRHNGbv56axzdEFrhPmm5NW0v-vB4wY7rhY``iq׉ 7cassandra://NrU_oxarUJCtJUYfax6E80cUyDt5S1K5-FenOzHi1FM`׉ 7cassandra://37XW8sbUF768D-qpIID9VYDuCqo2qagtAt6L47qtM54GT`eW[W1}נeW[W1x>9׉H http://www.imagezphotostudio.comGׁ ׁ rנeW[W1y/̖9׉Hhttp://www.losros.comGׁ ׁ rנeW[W1z9׉Hhttp://wwwladieslexcandles.netGׁ ׁ rנeW[W1{en9׉Hhttp://www.thomasacc.comGׁ ׁ rנeX[W1es9ׁHhttp://www.thomasacc.comׁ ׁ ЈנeX[W19ׁHhttp://wwwladieslexcandles.netׁ ׁ ЈנeX[W1`wr9ׁHhttp://candles.Viׁ ׁ ЈנeX[W1Ɂ9ׁHmailto:imanivisuals97@gmail.comׁ ׁ ЈנeX[W14̖9ׁHhttp://www.losros.comׁ ׁ ЈנeX[W1>9ׁH http://www.imagezphotostudio.comׁ ׁ Ј׉EGET THE URBAN EXPERIENCE Women's History Month It’s Women’s History Month and I am starting this month by thanking the community I reside in for voting for me. I received the runner up award for the Making a Difference Community Service award for Iowa Urban Media. Iowa Urban Media is the company which brings you Urban Experience Magazine and our show podcast This is not my Show. I was elated for this recognition despite being the runner up. In the last nine years I have been blessed with all the ups and downs life can bring. I have learned to draw nearer to God and let Him have his way. I have learned to balance life, family, work, and it has blessed my life. I look forward to coming to your spaces and sharing more through trainings, workshops, and keynote speaking engagements.. I am learning to be content in whatever state I am in by displaying love, joy, and peace. I pray I am always this way. Showing happiness, love, and joy is where I am in life and pray I always will be. I want to take a moment to thank those who make Iowa Urban Media what it is today. Bert Moody has been in photography for years and has been our photographer, website designer, and anything else we may need. Bert is the owner of Imagez Photography, reach out to him at www.imagezphotostudio.com Nikki Goldman is the designer who works each month to bring you a beautiful magazine. If you are looking for someone to assist with your design needs reach out to Nikki at www.losros.com Trevonte Diggs is the videographer who has been behind the scenes with Urban Impact Show and This is not my Show. If you are looking for videography work reach out to Tre via email at imanivisuals97@gmail.com Kourtney Perry has been helping with marketing and anything which is needed. I appreciate Kourtney and all she has done to support the work. Kourtney can help with your events and she has some nice smelling candles.Visit her at 3019 Merle Hay Road in Des Moines. Her website is wwwladieslexcandles.net Caleb Thomas writes great articles in the health section and comes from a Christ centered approach. He is a therapist in Iowa City and has been with the magazine for many years. His kind and loving spirit will be felt with each article you read. Reach out to Caleb at www.thomasacc.com ׉ 7cassandra://37XW8sbUF768D-qpIID9VYDuCqo2qagtAt6L47qtM54GT`eV[W1E׉EDonnetta Austin has shared her inspiring biblical message in the magazine for many years, thank you for always sharing what the Lord has placed on your heart. Donnetta is the author of Don't Retire God. You can purchase this book on Amazon. I also want to thank my parents, my children, Rob Johnson, Madison Sconiers, Kenyada Coney, Brittani Hayes, Jamaal Long, and Psalms Flipping. Everyone has made Iowa Urban Media what it is today. I couldn’t do this work without any of you and if you have never heard me say how much I appreciate and value each one of you, I do. There is so much in store for Iowa Urban Media. I ask you all to support Iowa Urban Media. Share the magazine and the show. Advertise with us, let us also take care of your marketing, graphic design and videographer needs. Thank you all again f your continued support in our work. Ladies, walk in your season and do what God has called you to do. Blessings, Dwana Bradley 5 eV[W1FeV[W1E(בCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://d_iICq9mL_F-_h917C2loWit53EI7DY49WSoeHUK__I\`iq׉ 7cassandra://L5nsejIH-aZSKg3Xpua9h1ZcKA9PXJOE8XTD2R-RW7Y`׉ 7cassandra://Du5B38YmjFJX27EHVig7OkemfNHttfybnQ_0TMUecKQHY`eX[W1׉E IS PORN A PROBLEM IN YOUR LIFE? Mental Health: Written by: Caleb Thomas, M.A. LMHC Hello Urban Experience Readers. If you noticed I added a few letters behind my name, you know LMHC stands for Licensed Mental Health Counselor, but you may not be familiar with the SPARC, that stands for Sex and Porn Addictions Recovery Coach. This month I want to discuss Porn and the impact it has on people from all walks of life. First, I want to tell you why I became a Sex and Porn Addictions Recovery Coach (SPARC). I can only do justice by telling you from the start, having seen many clients, who revealed they were struggling with Porn and wanted to know how to stop. I felt I had an obligation to give my client(s) the best professional information and intervention starting with educating myself from a best practice stance. Porn had gotten many into trouble, which had disrupted their lives as well as daily living. I took their concerns seriously as their ages ranged from pre-teens to adults, married, single, from the Pastor in the pulpit to the congregation in the pews, porn is a problem. Secondly, I don’t stand before you as if I’ve never watched porn, I have and I’m guilty, and I have repented. Was it a problem for me? Yes, it was, as it started me down the road of lust and early pre-marital sex as a teen. Some of you may be thinking well what’s wrong with that, most teens are going to have sex anyway, so it’s no big deal. There’s plenty wrong, to name a few things such as the risk of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD’s), and the risk of a Teen Pregnancy (as well as who is going to take care of the baby if the teen decides to go through with the pregnancy). This leads to another dilemma as you’ll find 1 of 3 things happen with teen pregnancy; many teens will either have an abortion, or the baby is put up for adoption or the baby gets raised by the grandparent (s) which in some cases the biological mom doesn’t get to develop a real relationship with their child. The other problem which is something we tend to ignore about pre-marital sex, is the Bible tells us fornicators will not enter the Kingdom of Heaven. As a therapist noting I had so many clients struggling with this issue, I wanted to learn more about porn addiction, and it happened as part of my Continuing Education Courses (professional learning), I took the course and learned more about porn and how I could be a help to my clients and others. I’ve learned not only is porn psychological and physiological, but it can also cause anyone who watches porn to become addicted to porn. It can also cause depression and anxiety, as well as erectile dysfunction. As I dove deeper into my studies the Holy Spirit revealed to me porn is also spiritual. This is something most professionals and scholars in this field and research will not tell you. You may be wondering how it is spiritual, well I can tell you that anytime we go against the word of God’s design this gives Satan an open door and a legal right to come in and begin the path of destruction for your life. Porn and masturbation cause you to release a chemical God designed in our minds called dopamine, also known as “the feel-good chemical”. This chemical should be released in moderation such as having intimacy with your husband or wife, however if dopamine gets released more frequently and has an accumulative effect on your brain and wants more of that feel good feeling. This can throw people into a negative downward spiral, ׉ 7cassandra://Du5B38YmjFJX27EHVig7OkemfNHttfybnQ_0TMUecKQHY`eV[W1G׉E7 eV[W1HeV[W1G(בCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://-zEEwihZLm_t-0-L4qWfMiekLnTqeOjo7nZ9N1egKFwl`iq׉ 7cassandra://EvdB_7fVaiYRK7QbjbY2j4IIJ_R8mjIRXayLHreZCBAռ`׉ 7cassandra://tzndkqKHchKR0IbfmgzkyXn2KY1AQ-0mwDrCrIFl0uwC`eX[W1נeX[W1̄9ׁHhttp://thomasacc.comׁ ׁ ЈנeX[W1b9ׁHmailto:caleb@thomasacc.comׁ ׁ ЈנeX[W12"9ׁHmailto:iaurbanmedia18@gmail.comׁ ׁ Ј׉E׉ 7cassandra://tzndkqKHchKR0IbfmgzkyXn2KY1AQ-0mwDrCrIFl0uwC`eV[W1I׉E and therefore lead to an addiction. Spiritually what happens is the porn you start off watching such as heterosexual porn is not enough, so you begin to watch lesbian porn, gay porn as well as bestiality, which is sex with animals, to child porn. Watching porn sent me off on my journey of pre-marital sex, so depending on the area of porn an individual is in will eventually go out and experiment in the porn they’re currently engaged in watching. As I look back, I am thankful I stopped watching porn when I did. I can understand how easily millions have fallen into the porn trap and need help. Watching and engaging in pornographic activity is one of those best kept secrets. Addiction to pornography aka porn is real and has a long devastating impact if it goes unaddressed. The enemy will have you addicted to porn and thinking you’re in control when every time you say it is your last time you find yourself in the “one last time” spiral. I’m here to say come out, there is help, and I would be honored to help you break this cycle of addiction. I will also note, what is done in the dark will be brought to the light, so if you are keeping it a secret and not telling a trusted adult please know you can always call our office, but please call someone and tell them this is a problem and a struggle for you. God desires to set you free, and His word tells us, “Whom the Son sets free is free indeed”. You may have tried to quit, you may have tried a program or several before, I’m here Do you want to be on the cover or centerfold? Sponsor an edition of Urban Experience MaGazine! Contact us today: iaurbanmedia18@gmail.com 9 to say don’t give up. You may be wondering what’s different about my program compared to others? My answer: I use biblical principles, the Word of God, in addition to studies and interventions to help individuals understand the psychological and physiological damage porn causes. The enemy may have you thinking you’re doing a good job of hiding your struggles with porn. Satan keeps you tied up in porn so you can lose what’s most important to you, it could be your family, your high-profile position, or getting exposed and must step down as a Pastor or Ministerial leader, it doesn’t matter your position whether prestigious or profound, realize you have a problem with porn. Red flags are warning you to stop and get the help you need. If you’re struggling in this area, or would like to have me speak to you as a Pastor and leaders or men in your congregation please feel free to call our office. Blessings, Caleb Thomas M.A. LMHC 319 206-0651 caleb@thomasacc.com thomasacc.com Thomas & Associates Counseling & ConsultingCounseling with a God given purpose! eV[W1JeV[W1I(בCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://tREHc53agZJsojKDA79s6FvFVMrrUu9FV3-ORuykmDc͹`iq׉ 7cassandra://fuyeBDWe978M7zH_WzVI6hD8hBFk8y6m4AmffMZVTkU͵`׉ 7cassandra://XzW4JNBgSp0pv9taNpRv1q3mpvy7QkAtptMWlJCZRvQ7`eX[W1׉E7Spirituality speaking life Written By: Donnetta Austin ׉ 7cassandra://XzW4JNBgSp0pv9taNpRv1q3mpvy7QkAtptMWlJCZRvQ7`eV[W1K׉E:The tongue has power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. Proverbs 18:21 niv Speak life over your situation. The words you speak from your mouth are powerful. Proverbs 18:21 NIV - The tongue has power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. What are you believing and telling yourself? What I know is that Gods promises remain true. He is a God who remains the same and never changes. Ephesians 3:20-21 NIV - Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen. Your words are so powerful that you will begin to move in action of what you are believing. So, it is not in the circumstances, or situation that has arise. It is in the thought process of what will then take place and follow into existence. Keep a positive mindset and be renewed by the word of God. Shift the way you think to believing “you have more than enough, you have what it takes to accomplish the task at hand, keep an I can do this attitude” Be encouraged. Psalms 27:14 - Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord. Sometimes, things do not happen or come right away but, it is usually right on time. 11 eV[W1LeV[W1K(בCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://lVaPR89fEN9ewzAZhWZ6sDlYbQGpkod3fyG9jGRqFYA0`iq׉ 7cassandra://0yLancTLEg0TZKyNKlo65wR1EjLtkqeemXPwEVJr-Tw`׉ 7cassandra://OnBupjNGej1PKSiU9Ek_ZhOC9VQ1u4dEG7Qy_CI2BwcS`eY[W1׉ECOMMUNITY Spotlight ׉ 7cassandra://OnBupjNGej1PKSiU9Ek_ZhOC9VQ1u4dEG7Qy_CI2BwcS`eV[W1M׉ElIowa Juneteenth Presents Their New King and Queen: Erwin and Kim Jones IOWA JUNETEENTH OBSERVANCE Erwin and Kim Jones have been married for 34 years and our members of Mt. Hebron Baptist Church. Iowa Juneteenth is excited to have these two as our King and Queen. They have been involved in the community and are great examples to all. Congratulations to you both. eV[W1NeV[W1M(בCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://tVVOuaAuwI4LlEXGermHIYAT4_jM0TmCHa-xjaW9cNE `iq׉ 7cassandra://AXlPQxn35A3aHlcTwq_iJRKw5svtirtO9Sm63pfdNL4`׉ 7cassandra://J65mZqGeRPxkpBUI7Kc6GiyLS9rEEUZoyD97YgCOaJM?g`eY[W1׉EALZHEIMER ׉ 7cassandra://J65mZqGeRPxkpBUI7Kc6GiyLS9rEEUZoyD97YgCOaJM?g`eV[W1O׉E ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION: IOWA CHAPTER What is Frontotemporal Dementia? By Alzheimer’s Association Did you know Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are different? Dementia is a general term for symptoms like memory loss and decline in reasoning or other thinking skills, and Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia. Alzheimer’s accounts for about 80% of all dementia, but there are several other types of dementia that affect different parts of the brain and have different symptoms, like frontotemporal dementia. Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) or frontotemporal degeneration refers to a group of disorders caused by progressive nerve cell loss in the brain's frontal lobes (the areas behind your forehead) or its temporal lobes (the regions behind your ears). The nerve cell damage caused by FTD leads to loss of function in these brain regions, which can cause deterioration in behavior, personality and/or difficulty with producing or comprehending language. There are a number of different diseases that cause FTD. The two most prominent are 1) a group of brain disorders involving the protein tau and 2) a group of brain disorders involving the protein called TDP43. For reasons that are not yet known, these two groups prefer the frontal and temporal lobes that cause dementia. Frontotemporal dementia used to be called Pick's disease after Arnold Pick, M.D., a physician who in 1892 first described a patient with distinct symptoms affecting language. Some doctors still use the term "Pick's disease." Other terms you may see used to describe FTD include frontotemporal disorders, frontotemporal degeneration and frontal lobe disorders. THERE ARE THREE DIFFERENT TYPES OF FTD: Behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia, sometimes also called behavior variant FTD, is characterized by changes in personality and behavior that often occur in people in their 50s and 60s. In behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia, the nerve cell loss is most prominent in areas that control conduct, judgment, empathy and foresight, among other abilities. Primary progressive aphasia (PPA) is the second major form of frontotemporal degeneration that affects language skills, speaking, writing and comprehension. PPA normally comes on in midlife, before age 65, but can occur in late life also. Recently, former daytime talk show host Wendy Williams recently announced her diagnosis of PPA. The news of her diagnosis is devastating, but her transparency will also be meaningful for millions who are all too familiar with the crushing realities of all forms of dementia. Disturbances of motor (movement or muscle) function include three disorders that are a part of the frontotemporal degeneration spectrum that produce changes in muscle or motor functions with or without behavior or language problems: 15 eV[W1PeV[W1O(בCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://K_o3fmgMgfe-a7w8H17Gz9m0SZ05GR5gSKVVpttezf0`iq׉ 7cassandra://PCQzdqS3nW30jcT5L6549KLU5j2fGJJhdcJn3ZBVf7Q6`׉ 7cassandra://0Bjqt_VheLOzqBD-_HzT7uuIZSQlG8BQRibGH5beHrAIY`eY[W1נeY[W1B#r9׉Hhttps://www.theaftd.org/Gׁ ׁ rנeY[W1<<9׉Hhttps://www.theaftd.org/Gׁ ׁ rנeY[W1BƁ=9׉H;https://www.alz.org/local_resources/find_your_local_chapterGׁ ׁ rנeY[W18L9׉Hhttps://www.psp.org/Gׁ ׁ rנeY[W1Ȏ9׉Hhttp://info@curepsp.orgGׁ ׁ rנeY[W1C'9׉H,https://www.ssa.gov/compassionateallowances/Gׁ ׁ rנeY[W1ہ(9׉Hnhttps://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/financial-legal-planning/social-security-disability?#compassionateGׁ ׁ rנeY[W1ERQ9ׁHhttp://alz.org/ftdׁ ׁ ЈנeY[W1Ȏ9ׁHmailto:info@curepsp.orgׁ ׁ ЈנeY[W1̈9ׁHmailto:info@theaftd.orgׁ ׁ Ј׉E T Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which causes muscle weakness or wasting. ALS is a motor neuron disease also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.  Corticobasal syndrome, which causes arms and legs to become uncoordinated or stiff. • Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), which causes muscle stiffness, difficulty walking and changes in posture. It also affects eye movements. Symptoms of PSP may resemble symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. However, in PSP tremor is less common and speech and language problems tend to develop earlier. Both behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia and PPA are far less common than Alzheimer’s disease in those over the age of 65. However, in the 45 to 65 age range, behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia and PPA are nearly as common as younger-onset Alzheimer’s. Only rough estimates are available, but there may be 50,000 to 60,000 people with behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia and PPA in the United States, the majority of whom are between 45 and 65 years of age. KEY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN FTD AND ALZHEIMER'S  Age at diagnosis may be an important clue. Most people with FTD are diagnosed in their 40s and early 60s. Alzheimer's, on the other hand, grows more common with increasing age.  Memory loss tends to be a more prominent symptom in early Alzheimer's than in early FTD, although advanced FTD often causes memory loss in addition to its more characteristic effects on behavior and language.  Behavior changes are often the first noticeable symptoms in bvFTD, the most common form of FTD. Behavior changes are ALZHEIMER also common as Alzheimer's progresses, but they tend to occur later in the disease.  Problems with spatial orientation — for example, getting lost in familiar places — are more common in Alzheimer's than in FTD.  Problems with speech: Although people with Alzheimer's may have trouble thinking of the right word or remembering names, they tend to have less difficulty making sense when they speak, understanding the speech of others, or reading than those with FTD.  Hallucinations and delusions are relatively common as Alzheimer's progresses, but relatively uncommon in FTD. HELP IS AVAILABLE The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD) is a nonprofit organization that provides information, education and support to those affected by frontotemporal dementia and their caregivers. Call 866.507.7222 or email info@theaftd.org to contact AFTD. The Alzheimer's Association office near you can help you learn more about Alzheimer's and other dementias, and help you find local support services. Call our 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900. CurePSP is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the awareness, care and cure for PSP and other neurodegenerative diseases. Call 800.457.4777 or email info@curepsp.org for more information and support. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a "compassionate allowance" program in which workers diagnosed with Pick's disease, PPA or ALS can qualify for Social Security disability benefits. You can also call the SSA at 800.772.1213. Visit alz.org/ftd to learn more about frontotemporal dementia. ׉ 7cassandra://0Bjqt_VheLOzqBD-_HzT7uuIZSQlG8BQRibGH5beHrAIY`eV[W1X׉Egr aphix g LosRos INF O@LOSROS. C OM • LOSROS. C OM Servic es Pho t o E diting Appar el Design M emorial Pho t os L og o & Br anding Mag azine Design C ust om Design eV[W1YeV[W1X(בCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://YH7wzvdmeTP8Hz9BtkLAe1rPYVhibgKLU-QtG6A1T38`iq׉ 7cassandra://p3ilSzL1uPI4MTtN5EIBQjz-cO_-EgfQ_DolWmR8BVU`׉ 7cassandra://SQ6H3U1LYZG35iBqdEWxj5Unl4SRuaBgfImCil7cv30I@`eY[W1׉E“I was overwhelmed with emotions when I read that we took home first place! This was the first time I have won anything and this was my first pitch competition ever! We are humbled by the support we received and are very thankful to the chamber, sponsors, contestants, participants, & volunteers." Terrence Jones COO & Founder Louisiana Creole Pecan Candy 2023 Pitch Competition Champion Since 2021, over $100,000 has been distributed to Summit Pitch Competition Participants. Presented by APRIL 18-19, 2024 ׉ 7cassandra://SQ6H3U1LYZG35iBqdEWxj5Unl4SRuaBgfImCil7cv30I@`eV[W1Z׉E8The 4th Annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit will feature eight finalists competing in a pitch competition where winners will receive cash prizes to invest in their businesses. The pitch competition, presented by Bank of America, receives applications from businesses across the United States each year. Applicants are thoroughly reviewed and then finalists selected. “We are thrilled to once again partner with the West Des Moines Chamber for their Black & Brown Business Summit pitch competition,” said Annie Brandt, senior vice president, market executive, Bank of America Iowa. “Thriving minority-owned businesses are crucial for promoting long-term economic prosperity for all Iowans, and this pitch competition is just one of the many ways in which Bank of America is working to build that prosperity.” eV[W1[eV[W1Z(בCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://ALBacINxdndVOGimEbizjiUiV0wIdCw_o1DpmJHLZ_k`iq׉ 7cassandra://uP-oOfjFuILCxgsOpnbvoi5T87Ctse0pi62_FydRXqk`׉ 7cassandra://2bGjlBUDd9y4d0-GGHemtijv-k2CKMLOL4G768jqqPwRX`eY[W1׉E!EDUCATION NETWORKING CELEBRATION ׉ 7cassandra://2bGjlBUDd9y4d0-GGHemtijv-k2CKMLOL4G768jqqPwRX`eV[W1\׉ENOUR MISSION The Athene Black & Brown Business Summit presented by Wells Fargo was created by national stakeholders to elevate ethnic and racial minorities and bring BIPOC businesses together to assist with connection building, programming, promotion, training, and providing resources to inspire growth and prosperity. REGISTER TODAY eV[W1]eV[W1\(בCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://VmC6Gh0JR__DK12w4vijEcGjREsOy8IlfOWT3Uwdl80`iq׉ 7cassandra://P00lFphsIEcIkcaesMDNsxnODQn5aILbJSkzWnTFTD0s`׉ 7cassandra://PXtJmIievZykLZZ72TG_tv0GJ-nUpdubhdvt07vHz9UH `eY[W1נeZ[W1;Ӂf9ׁHhttp://BBBSUMMIT.COMׁ ׁ Ј׉EJKEYNOTE SPEAKER TIFFANY PHAM REGISTER NOW APRIL 18-19, 2024 bbbsummit.com ׉ 7cassandra://PXtJmIievZykLZZ72TG_tv0GJ-nUpdubhdvt07vHz9UH `eV[W1^׉E5Dreamers. Innovators. Trailblazers. BBBSUMMIT.COM 23 eV[W1_eV[W1^(בCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://TnthPAX-Jsn58QmiocmCnxn5qQQ_RHrwSQdeSFEJ1j4n`iq׉ 7cassandra://fLv0d3wBMdwOIrThGdvm0fM9T3_1npiaJrezPxYlE9g!`׉ 7cassandra://UQTGERoE6gK-aAcUMKdu60-kSTwsIF57cmnow1QjyXQK`eZ[W1׉EPresented by INSPIRING OTHERS The Mel Essex Award - recognizing honorees for high standards of business ethics and heart for inspiring and encouraging others to fulfill their dreams of securing economic success - is presented annually at the Athene Black & Brown Business Summit. Past honorees include 2023 recipient Perlla Deluca (pictured), 2022 recipient Lu Spaine, and 2021 recipient Pernell Cezar. ׉ 7cassandra://UQTGERoE6gK-aAcUMKdu60-kSTwsIF57cmnow1QjyXQK`eV[W1`׉E?SUPPORTING SMALL BUSINESS Connect with local small businesses at the Athene Black & Brown Business Summit Business Expo. Participating businesses are highlighted online as well as in-person as part of the Athene Black & Brown Business Summit. The goal is to educate attendees about local businesses and encourage them to shop small and support minority-owned businesses and organizations throughout the state of Iowa. Are you a business owner interested in showcasing your small business as part of the Expo? Scan the QR code to learn more and to sign up today. Presented by eV[W1aeV[W1`(בCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://LwR_f1qZ6dLTfs2LSmlzH6SQtYu6rqFZFtlgMHRHo20`iq׉ 7cassandra://aNpSmuxHU2W4USXVYZ-eCwJQb_UQQU1_PokXQV9xuQIу`׉ 7cassandra://wgOGBD9yli0FDsL0rFLHJoYrMeTwMkGrYf5eh5NqXag:`eZ[W1׉EEMS CONTRIBUTOR What’s Safer for Domestic Violence Survivors: Home or the Streets? Written By: Selen Ozturk Domestic violence is among the leading causes of homelessness, as victims often face low funds, poor credit and police evictions. ׉ 7cassandra://wgOGBD9yli0FDsL0rFLHJoYrMeTwMkGrYf5eh5NqXag:`eV[W1b׉E Domestic violence is among the leading causes of homelessness, is driving growing numbers of women to sake safety in the streets. At a Friday, February 16 Ethnic Media Services briefing, domestic violence prevention advocates and a formerly unhoused survivor discussed how domestic violence often leads to homelessness and shared firsthand experiences of homelessness as a result of IPV. THE IMPACT OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ON HOMELESSNESS Domestic violence, also known as intimate partner violence (IPV), involves “violence, abuse or aggression committed by a former or current intimate partner,” said Dr. Anita Hargrave, Assistant Adjunct Professor at UCSF. Last month, to better understand the experiences of IPV survivors currently experiencing homelessness, the UCSF Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative released Toward Safety, a report analyzing IPV data from June 2023 in the California Statewide Study of People Experiencing Homelessness (CASPEH) — the largest representative study of homelessness since the mid-1990s. Dr. Anita Hargrave, Assistant Professor, UCSF and lead BHHI researcher of the report “Toward Safety: Understanding Intimate Partner Violence and Homelessness,” shares data on the availability of shelter for those fleeing domestic violence. This new report found that 40% of participants reporting IPV in the six months before homelessness reported violence as a reason for leaving their last housing, while 20% said it was the primary reason. IPV “is particularly dangerous for those at the economic margins,” said Hargrave. “Many survivors reported that relatively modest amounts of financial support could have helped them avoid homelessness — which left them even more vulnerable to increased violence, as 42% of IPV survivors prior to homelessness experienced it unhoused as well.” 73% of those who reported IPV before homelessness believed that a $300 to $500 monthly subsidy would have kept them housed for at least two years, while 83% believed that a one-time $5,000 to $10,000 lump sum would have, and 92% believed that a housing voucher limiting rental contributions to 30% of their income would have. 95% of all survivors said high housing costs were a barrier to regaining housing. In short, “Many IPV survivors are forced to choose between a rock and a hard place: enduring violence at home or risking homelessness,” said Hargrave. “You can’t address the link between IPV and homelessness without addressing the need for permanent affordable housing.” RISING IPV AND HOMELESSNESS IN NEW YORK CITY Domestic violence has particularly been on the rise in New York City, where 40% of women and children in homeless shelters are there because of IPV. “Despite New York City making progress in reducing other forms of homicides, domestic violence homicides persist, and continues to disproportionately impact Black and Hispanic women,” said Jennifer White-Reid, Chief of Staff at Urban Resource Institute (URINYC), which provides transitional housing for thousands of domestic violence survivors and homeless families. Between 2021 and 2022, IPV homicides increased 29% citywide, 225% in Brooklyn and 57% in the Bronx. Jennifer White-Reid, Chief of Staff & Senior 27 eV[W1ceV[W1b(בCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://EPNxfoCyOm5_o3HYTgrtk18I6y3FM9gOSAebK1scXJo`iq׉ 7cassandra://j8K9t9AB16b7DyqXGoPNd1ClReOnV48WX01vGKHeETE`׉ 7cassandra://eZ8sVWAelw9gBrHAkacogvoBLsaUU4p6I2n58C2i77o@a`eZ[W1׉E[Advisor to the CEO at Urban Resource Institute in New York, discusses some of the tactics of economic abuse and explains why it is often the reason survivors return to an abusive relationship. Key to stopping this cycle is education including “violence prevention and healthy relationship education programs for youth, and traumainformed behavioral intervention accountability programs for individuals who have caused harm,” said White-Reid. In February 2023, URINYC advocated for the passage of a state bill redefining domestic violence under the New York City Human Rights Law to include economic abuse, which includes coerced debt and gives victims expanded protections. Just as crucial is economic investment, including housing support and IPV-related debt prevention, she explained: “Economic abuse, experienced by 98% of survivors, often serves as a primary reason they stay or return to an abusive partner.” URINYC also offers workforce development, employment assistance and affordable housing services including People and Animals Living Safely (PALS). “We learned that 50% of survivors would not leave a dangerous situation if they could not take their pets with them,” said White-Reid. “PALS is the only dedicated program in New York City, and among a few nationally, allowing domestic violence survivors to live and heal together with their pets as they work to achieve economic stability.” A FIRSTHAND EXPERIENCE Without resources like these, “I chose homelessness over returning to abuse,” said Desiree Martinez, who was unhoused for five years in Fresno, California until 2016 due to IPV. Desiree Martinez, Executive Director of We Are NOT Invisible, shares what she learned after being unhoused and how it motivates her to advocate for better services for people experiencing homelessness. “Lacking insurance after a mental breakdown, I was desperate for assistance at a local mental health office but ended up being confined as they deemed me at-risk,” continued Martinez, who is now Executive Director of homelessness advocacy nonprofit We Are NOT Invisible. “National hotlines directed me to county resources, yet there was limited local support. After not meeting the criteria for a bed at a domestic violence shelter, I found myself at a homeless shelter sleeping on the floor amongst others,” added Martinez, who suggested that shelters reserve beds for domestic violence survivors, given the high prevalence of homelessness among them. “It’s especially dangerous for women to survive the streets,” she said. “In Fresno County there was a lot of sex trafficking, a lot of drugs. You stay up all night in order not to be raped. You have nowhere to change, no shower, no heat. You don’t feel like a female. You’re scared constantly and all you want is shelter — no wonder a lot of people choose to go back home.” “The shelter’s gender restrictions left me exposed to the streets once again, surviving on a fixed disability income while facing steep rents,” Martinez explained. “If it wasn’t for a 30% income affordable housing voucher, I would still probably be on the streets, and who knows what would have happened to me. Yet, I’m nervous every year because the rent continues to increase, but the voucher does not.” “You flee an abusive relationship because you want safety, but being unhoused makes you vulnerable to thousands of strangers. For a time, I’d ended up going back because I’d rather be abused by one I knew,” she added. “We need to educate people about what’s happening to us in the streets — that we’re good people too who just want a permanent home.” survivor ׉ 7cassandra://eZ8sVWAelw9gBrHAkacogvoBLsaUU4p6I2n58C2i77o@a`eV[W1d׉E29 survivor eV[W1eeV[W1d(בCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://WXDZ89nZAYybH76z0ps-jH-ZomxmWS17Uo9wnwNnysE%`iq׉ 7cassandra://CNZcbFiTYBJ85fFydWzDD5J7QERLV7z4ax0WR-U3oZg`׉ 7cassandra://fnonqTAovryHRov3qqJ0aNilKpqtq7TVkk5Vr_prX4A>`e[[W1׉E0AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION Women’s History Month highlights the reality of heart disease By: American Heart Association News During Women’s History Month in March, the American Heart Association is highlighting a haunting reality: Heart disease is women’s No. 1 cause of death. “This is the thing most likely to kill a woman and we know it is 80% preventable,” said Dr. Tara Narula, a board-certified cardiologist at Lenox Hill Hospital in Manhattan and CBS News senior medical correspondent. Close to every 80 seconds, a woman dies from cardiovascular disease, which kills more women than all forms of cancer combined. “A lot needs to happen” to reduce heart disease among women, Dr. Narula said. “The first thing is awareness, a real understanding that this is their biggest health threat.” Yet, from 2009-19, the number of women who recognize the deadly potential of cardiovascular disease dropped from 65% to 44%, with the youngest women, as well as Black and Hispanic women, being the least aware. “We need to educate women to make heart health a priority,” Dr. Narula said. “Once the damage is done to heart cells, in many cases it can be permanent or disabling.” She identified three areas to address: disparities in awareness and treatment, concerns specific to pregnancy and lifestyle issues. ׉ 7cassandra://fnonqTAovryHRov3qqJ0aNilKpqtq7TVkk5Vr_prX4A>`eV[W1f׉EFACE THE FACTORS! • • • • Public health campaigns tend to focus on preventing diseases such as cancer. Equal attention needs to be paid to heart health. As a society, Go Red for Women has been so valuable,” Dr. Narula said of the Association’s campaign. “We need to continue to raise awareness with aggressive public health campaigns.” As caregivers and providers, women tend to care for others before themselves. “We’re so focused on everyone else,” Dr. Narula said. “It’s not our natural instinct to help ourselves.” Many women downplay symptoms that could be signs of heart disease, attributing palpitations to stress and chest discomfort to acid reflux. “Not understanding the risk, or thinking the symptoms are not related to the heart, or it’s all in their head, is the perfect storm of how women downplay it,” Dr. Narula said. Historically, heart disease research has focused on men, who also die more from cardiovascular disease than any other condition. It accounts for 1 in every 4 male deaths. As of 2020, less than 40% of clinical trial participants were women, an alarming gap that needs to be addressed to ensure research is inclusive of women’s unique needs. “For a very long time,” Dr. Narula said, “women weren’t enrolled to the same degree in trials as men. It’s taken the medical establishment a long time to get the understanding that we are not just a smaller version of men. We have our own biological makeup and our physiological processes are different." 31 eV[W1geV[W1f(בCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://D9gK01Wd1zoruECchoKgamYSXRUOXHDBbujTTPY_WEEG`iq׉ 7cassandra://ZbgGU4gzEJKEM7fAKBDxYoFTMNfjhimoli4XcCc4XUA9`׉ 7cassandra://nYEF_eKniudXntrqgb3ql14UkjG3Uw3Vc33k-09Hf68I`e[[W1נe[[W1Ӂ!9ׁHhttp://HEART.ORG/MOVEMOREׁ ׁ Ј׉EETAKE THESE STEPS FOR A HEALTHIER HEART: Step 1: Step 2: Step 3: Know your numbers. What’s your blood pressure? Cholesterol levels? Blood sugar? Body mass index? Be aware of symptoms you may not associate with heart issues. Besides chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, heart palpitations and passing out could all be signs. If you experience them, see your doctor. Exercise, eat healthy and manage mental well-being. The American Heart Association recommends adults do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity, or a combination of both, preferably spread throughout the week. It’s also good to do moderate- to high-intensity muscle-strengthening activities such as resistance or weights at least two days a week. But even small changes help. Take the stairs. Walk 10 minutes. ׉ 7cassandra://nYEF_eKniudXntrqgb3ql14UkjG3Uw3Vc33k-09Hf68I`eV[W1h׉EOWALK MORE. STRESS LESS. NATIONAL WALKING DAY HEART.ORG/MOVEMORE APRIL 202433 3 eV[W1ieV[W1h(בCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://u0ywz1YsMxXaQf5euM25sSKE2I6nRJYOWrchSmhDS08`iq׉ 7cassandra://nzATZz_uj-Qb0CtkMRTnIVUz8dhDcfCpbA-WGA-tl_Y`׉ 7cassandra://8T1PPUaSlH6Vvz_NRcOecG43Lieet6HJ2hP6crt1dH0V`e[[W1נe[[W1̃9ׁHhttp://DMPA.orgׁ ׁ Ј׉EG We d CONTACT US TODAY! 515-770-2271 • Her songs. Her life. April 5–21, 2024 831 42nd Street | Des Moines | 515.277.6261 TICKETS AT: DMPlayhouse.com ׉ 7cassandra://8T1PPUaSlH6Vvz_NRcOecG43Lieet6HJ2hP6crt1dH0V`eV[W1j׉ELIVE AT THE TEMPLE CONCERT SERIES Martha Redbone FOLK – BLUES – GOSPEL April 12 TEMPLE THEATER DMPA.org · (515) 246-2300 · Civic Center Ticket Office 35 TICKETS START AT $ 20! eV[W1keV[W1j(בCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://83OWT1IAU1xORSx2HUCTPQojL_3O1LP78vodokdbyg8Wt`iq׉ 7cassandra://Dsk8VPHpR6DmibFFWL9vpdj9B6vuZj_NOqYY_M7heU0Y`׉ 7cassandra://XkoLa_19osL3lLT7zCGE4FkPZjQvcrE2f7wwOPBZjAkS`e\[W1נe\[W1̝́9ׁHhttp://DESMOINESARTCENTER.ORGׁ ׁ Јנe\[W1P{9ׁHhttp://stophiviowa.orgׁ ׁ Ј׉E5As 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. Rewards Checking • CDs & IRAs • Money Markets Insurance • Home / Auto Loans • Credit Cards Investments & Trust Services • Business Loans GreenState is consistently ranked in the Top 1% Nationally for returning profits with better rates & lower fees. That means one of the Top financial institutions in the country, is right here in Iowa. FINANCIAL INSTITUTION GreenState US Bank Chase Wells Fargo (9,4RANK 19 5,291 5,320 7,686 *Data provided by Callahan and Associates 6/30/23 84 U.S. Institutions) 800-397-3790 GreenState.org ׉ 7cassandra://XkoLa_19osL3lLT7zCGE4FkPZjQvcrE2f7wwOPBZjAkS`eV[W1l׉EWe can stop HIV, Iowa— by taking a whole-person approach to our sexual health. Get screened for HIV at least once in your lifetime, and request HIV screening any time you are getting tested for sexually-transmitted infections (STIs). Talk openly with your provider about your sex life, so they can help you figure out which tests are best for you. There’s not a single test for all STIs—each STI has its own test. STIs can cause long-term health issues when left untreated. They can also increase your chances of acquiring HIV. Getting tested for all sexually-transmitted infections is the best step you can take to protect your own health and help to stop HIV in Iowa! Learn more at stophiviowa.org ? FEBRUARY 10 – MAY 12, 2024 ANNA K. MEREDITH GALLERY CURATED BY FITSUM SHEBESHE ORGANIZED BY INDEPENDENT CURATORS INTERNATIONAL OPENING CELEBRATION FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9 | 5–7 PM DESMOINESARTCENTER.ORG States of Becoming is a traveling exhibition curated by Fitsum Shebeshe and produced by Independent Curators International (ICI), New York. Lead funding is provided by the Hartfield Foundation as part of an initiative to support ICI’s commitment to new curatorial voices who will shape the future of the field, and ICI’s Curatorial Intensive alumni as they move through the stages of their career. States of Becoming is made possible with the generous support of ICI’s Board of Trustees and International Forum. Crozier Fine Arts is the Preferred Art Logistics Partner. Exhibition graphics by Untitled Agency, Marrakech. Additional support for the Des Moines presentation provided by The Harriet S. and J. Locke Macomber Art Center Fund. IMAGE: Gabriel C. Amadi-Emina | Fade Catcher, 2021 Diptych photographic print on museo silver rag adhered flat on wooden panel | Collection of the artist 37 eV[W1meV[W1l(בCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://jFkk1GWH8K9jqbei7rw39Yz2U4bEJF1A6UZBFMzZMD0`iq׉ 7cassandra://LKzcbz2GZIkyWa7XASqbdhn7ZUrtrudJP6hBNSWI7nER`׉ 7cassandra://u4Xf1twuTqW14prqBd7ZFkRhDj-QgYwRobrMJ7Hxxe8S<`e_[W1נe_[W1Ł~G9ׁHhttp://unitedwaydm.org/united55ׁ ׁ Јנe_[W1āsׁG9ׁH$mailto:lynne.melssen@unitedwaydm.orgׁ ׁ Јנe_[W1ÁN[9ׁH'https://volunteer.unitedwaydm.org/need/ׁ ׁ Јנe_[W1Nn9ׁH https://www.unitedwaydm.org/hopeׁ ׁ Ј׉EBE INFORMED BE AN ADVOCATE SURVIVE Everyone has a heart: Take Care of Yours & Live Your Best Life! Why is Cardiovascular Genetic Screening Important? ! ! 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. Benefits of Genetic & Clinical Screening Detect 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. ! 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 disease If any family member experienced heart disease or any of the below health issues, consider genetic and clinical screening. Heart 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 evaluation Unexplained cardiac arrest(s) or sudden death Exercise intolerance Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) Untreated LDL (low-density lipoprotein) known as bad cholesterol ≥ 190 Multiple family members with congenital heart defects West African Ancestry in your family Diagnosed with carpel tunnel syndrome The average cost of genetic testing is $250 This work was supported through the MIHF HealthConnect Fellowship. The average out-of-pocket cost is $100 ׉ 7cassandra://u4Xf1twuTqW14prqBd7ZFkRhDj-QgYwRobrMJ7Hxxe8S<`eV[W1n׉E8JOIN UNITED 55+ 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! Current & Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities Book Buddy A 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 Read Volunteer 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 Shop Charity 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 Drive The 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-holidays Holiday Helping Hand Looking 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. Contact, Lynne Melssen AmeriCorps Seniors Program Director at lynne.melssen@unitedwaydm.org or 515-246-6544 To register, scan the QR code or visit: unitedwaydm.org/united55 39 LIVE UNITED eV[W1oeV[W1n(בCט(u׉׉ 7cassandra://-eQj1h496zeaPIxeSJl_xYe92pM4umOwB3nvt6rjy8cg`׉ 7cassandra://xb8vUtlJWpxHTamjcyW77H4bqRs4ge477QNRF2eEd-Y͋`s׉ 7cassandra://U0YfXznPzG5BaSeObjjdigyqX52Ky-y-kEF2lyy91eM-`e_[W1נe_[W1wɁ@9ׁHhttp://HENDERSONSHP.COMׁ ׁ Ј׉EIt'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 ׉ 7cassandra://U0YfXznPzG5BaSeObjjdigyqX52Ky-y-kEF2lyy91eM-`eV[W1p׈EeV[W1qeV[W1p(,UEM March 2024 3It's Women's History Month! Shout out to the Women, we at Urban Experience Magazine see you. This edition of Urban Experience Magazine is brought to you by Athene Black & Brown Business Summit presented by Wells Fargo. Urban Experience Magazine wants to see you at the summit on April 18-19. Sign up today. e@ÂeRN}: