2018 April Unite

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Visualize

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Alison Saar, American (b. 1956)

Alison Saar is a painter, sculptor, and printmaker. Her work has predominantly focused on problematic and persistent notions surrounding the positioning of African-Americans and Taint women. Saar draws from mythologi2002, color monoprint cal and historical narratives to depict Museum Acquisition Fund SAM 2002.41 strong and self-possessed African American women, merging her own deeply personal history within the framework of universal stories. According to curator Leah Ullman, “The eyes of her figures are generalized or turned inward, so the sculptures don’t meet our gaze, yet their presence registers viscerally. They represent humanity, distilled.”

When I made the decision to shift careers from being a standup comedian to become a motivational speaker, I didn’t expect to wake up the next morning and say, “OK, when do I speak?” That’s ridiculous, of course. I was well aware that action needed to be taken. I knew I had to reinforce my foundation of faith and confidence. There was a well-thought-out step-by-step process involved. Here’s the thing, dear reader. At various times throughout the day, during the process of creating my speaking career, I visualized myself on stage speaking to thousands of people. I envisioned the audience laughing at my jokes and funny stories and acknowledging my message. I saw myself getting standing ovations and people

thanking me for giving them hope. I envisioned agencies and clients from all venues calling my office wanting to book me. I saw my calendar being filled with speaking engagements. I envisioned my fees and product sales increasing. I saw my team and agents calling me and saying, “You have another offer!” It took time and a great deal of dedication before I started reaping the benefits of my labor, but I did eventually get the things that I envisioned. And it’s still paying off. Take a few moments every day—throughout the day—to visualize the things you desire. Feel them with your heart and soul. See them in your mind as if they’re really happening. Include every detail. Feel and experience the emotions as if you already have what you want.

Share What You Love About The Unite Publication With Your Friends & Family. Unite enriches lives and connects you with diverse news about your community you can trust and count on. Unite is now available online at unitenewsonline.org Have the Unite Publication delivered to your home or office for only $25. per year. Call: (417) 864-7444

April 2018 Volume 28/ Number 4 • A Monthly Publication by Unite of Southwest Missouri, Inc •

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Building Empowering Connections In Our Diverse Community

8th Annual Minorities In Business Heritage Awards Ceremony April 12

NewsOnline

Building Empowering Connections In Our Diverse Community

Empowerment Clubs bring African American mentors to SPS classrooms Sir Burgess, a sixthgrader, straightens his tie. Then, he shakes Sylvester Hagan’s hand. “My name is Sir,” he says proudly. “Nice to meet you.”

Springfield, MO—Two outstanding Springfield business owners will be honored at the 8th Annual Heritage Awards Ceremony Tuesday, April 12 at the Doubletree Hotel, 2431 North Glenstone. Reception starts at 6:00 p.m. with dinner at 6:45 pm. Tickets are $40 each and $320 for a table of eight. The keynote speaker will be Lester Woods, Jr, External Civil Rights Director Continued on page 2

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Remember To Vote On April 3rd See Details on On Page 5

Springfield, MO—Twice a month, 15 middle schoolers at three schools meet for Empowerment Club. The ongoing initiative at Jarrett, Pipkin and Westport middle schools features lessons about goal setting, purposeful behavior and how to be a good man, as well as history lessons about famous African American men. LA Anderson,

Sylvester Hagan speaks to a group of African American young men

equity and inclusion coordinator at SPS, leads small groups of at-risk African American boys, along with the school’s coordinator of site interventions. But once a month, a different African American professional man will share his story of how he found success through education, says LA Anderson,

coordinator of equity and access at SPS. “The purpose of bringing in these African American men is to show the boys people who look like them, who are successful in various ways in the community,” said Anderson. “But they all value their educaContinued on page 2

Linda Brown of Brown vs. Board of Education dies USA Today—Linda Brown, who at the age of 9 became the cornerstone figure in the landmark Supreme Court case that struck down segregation in the nation's schools, has died at age 76 in Kansas, according to published reports. Topeka’s former

Sumner School was died Sunday afternoon, all-white when Brown's according to the Associfather, Oliver, tried to ated Press. enroll the family. He Her sister, Cheryl became lead plaintiff in Brown Henderson, the historic 1954 Brown founding president of v. Board of Education The Brown Foundation, decision.Peaceful Rest confirmed the death to Linda Brown Funeral Chapel of TopeThe Topeka ka confirmed that Linda Brown Capital-Journal.

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education.” Sylvester Hagan, 24, has won every accolade possible in his competitive internship program with Northwestern Mutual. But before becoming a financial advisor, he overcame unbelievable adversity. He grew up lower middle class, surrounded by wealthy families in Ohio and was hungry most days at school. He also grew up seeing drugs and violence impact his friends and family. But he chose a different path for his life, and made football his way to achieve success. “I didn’t like school very much, I will be honest with you,” says Hagan, addressing the boys at Westport. “But I knew I had to do well in school to do what I wanted to do. I had to have a 2.0 to play football, and I knew I had to keep my grades up to play college ball. And so I did well at school, and I did well at junior college, and I ended up getting my degree from Missouri Southern. I needed to do well at school to do what I wanted.” Sir Burgess, a sixth-grader, wore a shirt and tie provided by the Empowerment Club to meet

Hagan. Tying a tie, having a strong handshake and sitting in the front of the class are things he’s learned in Empowerment Club. But he likes the class for a different reason. Throughout Hagan’s talk, in conversations with the eager boys, Hagan stresses the importance of personal responsibility and the importance of taking ownership of your choices. And now for Hagan, he’s choosing to invest in African American boys at SPS. “When I was a kid, I looked up to my peers,” he said. “But I knew I really was looking for someone in my life to look up to, to see someone who was successful. So for them, it’s important to tell my story so they hear that the only thing between them and success is their choices. There’s a chance my story could change their perspective.” Empowerment Club meets twice a month at Jarrett, Pipkin and Westport middle schools. In addition to serving African American boys, SPS hosts Young Ladies of Purpose, a similar club for African American girls at Westport Middle School. For more information, contact the Equity and Inclusion office at 523-0064.

Join Us At The Golden Gathering (MLK50) Springfield, MO. – Springfield NAACP is facilitating 2018 yearlong commemorations of service, education, and celebrations for the 50th Memorial of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s passing (MLK 50) Wednesday, April 4, 2018, 5:45 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. at the Springfield Art Museum 1111 E. Brookside Drive. The Golden Gathering will bring together social justice leaders, activists, politicians, educators, and community members for an intimate look at how the American Civil Rights Movement and past activism laid the groundwork for current grassroots efforts to achieve positive social change. The Golden Gathering is free and open to the public. Donations

of flashlights with batteries will be collected for hurricane relief efforts for Puerto Rico. For more information contact: Dr. Sabrina A. Brinson, (417)827-5577 Email: sbrinson@ missouristate.edu

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with MoDOT. To purchase your tickets, please contact the MIB office at (417) 837-2631.

Fish Fry My, Oh My Springfield, MO— Gibson Chapel Presbyterian Church, 536 E Tampa will host a Fish Fry, Saturday April 28, 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Dinners $8. Menu......... Catfish, Spaghetti, Cole Slaw, Corn Bread, Dessert And Drink Call: C Ingram (417) 865-1410.

Springfield Black History Moment Correction: The photo below was misidentified last month. The location is Reedy Chapel, 749 North Weaver Avenue and the event was the Adams Family Reunion. —John Sellars

Working Together to Power Springfield Whether you have a material to sell or offer a great service—CU is looking for reputable vendors to help us keep our business up-and-running. Call 417-831-8363 or log on to cityutilities.net, key search “Purchasing”, to learn about ways for us to work together.

It is the policy of City Utilities to offer equal opportunity to individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, ancestry, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, or marital status.

City Utilities of Springfield • 301 East Central, Springfield MO • 417.863.9000 • cityutilities.net

Provided by

History Museum On The Square

Open Monday ~ Saturday from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm Adults $5 ~ Children $3 ~ Museum Members Free In our historic Fox Theatre at 157 Park Central Square, Springfield MO

Library

Grief

discusses his book, “The Great Influenza: The Story of the Deadliest Pandemic in History,” from 7-9 p.m. Thursday, April 19, in the Library Center auditorium. He will also sell and sign his books. ••• Do you know someone over age 60 who would enjoy socializing with others once a month and share a lunch? Check out the Senior Social from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday, April 25, at the Midtown Carnegie Branch Library basement meeting room. A noon lunch program, Healthy Living for Seniors, will be provided by SeniorAge Area Agency on Aging's Choice Presenters. A $3.50 donation is requested for lunch. Sponsored by SeniorAge and the Library's Stories for Life program. ••• The Library revives its popular Cemetery Walks series for adults with two events at Maple Park Cemetery, 300 W. Grand St. Register beginning May 1 at 6160534 for a walk at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 10; or 2 p.m. Saturday, May 12. Enjoy a stroll while learning about the cemetery's history, landmarks, and the notable and notorious men and women who rest there. Meet at the gazebo near the front entrance. Each walk limited to 20 participants. Kathleen O’Dell is community relations director of the Springfield-Greene County Library District. She can be reached at kathleeno@thelibrary.org.

Moving on with life Mourning the loss of a close friend or relative takes time, but research tells us that it can also be the catalyst for a renewed sense of meaning that offers purpose and direction to life. Grieving individuals may find it useful to use some of the following strategies to help come to terms with loss: • Talk about the death of your loved one with friends and colleagues in order to understand what happened and remember your friend or family member. Denying the death is an easy way to isolate yourself, and will frustrate your support system in the process. • Accept your feelings. People experience all kinds of emotions after the death of someone close. Sadness, anger, frustration and even exhaustion are all normal. • Take care of yourself and your family. Eating well, exercising and getting plenty of rest help us get through each day and move forward. • Reach out and help others dealing with the loss. Helping others has the added benefit of making you feel better as well. Sharing stories of the deceased can help everyone cope. • Remember and celebrate the lives of your loved ones. Possibilities include donating to a favorite charity of the deceased, framing photos of fun times, passing on a family name to a baby or planting a garden in memory. What you choose is up to you, as long as it allows you honor that unique relationship in a way that feels right to you. If you feel stuck or overwhelmed by your emotions, it may be helpful to talk with a licensed

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psychologist or other mental health professional who can help you cope with your feelings and find ways to get back on track. How psychologists can help Psychologists are trained to help people better handle the fear, guilt or anxiety that can be associated with the death of a loved one. If you need help dealing with your grief or managing a loss, consult with a psychologist or other licensed mental

Visualize

continued from page 10 yourself in the picture. You must enthusiastically be in the picture as if it’s really happening. Feel the excitement. Include every detail. Feel and experience the emotions as if you already have what you want. If your desire is to create a meaningful relationship, you might want to picture the two of you laughing or holding hands walking on a beach. Perhaps you can envision eating dinner together at a cozy, romantic restaurant and having a meaningful conversation. The point is to feel the excitement of already having the relationship you want. For a little extra oomph, give thanks for the outcome you desire and know that it might take a while, but somehow, some way, you will eventually

health professional. Psychologists can help people build their resilience and develop strategies to get through their sadness. Practicing psychologists use a variety of evidence-based treatments — most commonly psychotherapy — to help people improve their lives. Psychologists, who have doctoral degrees, receive one of the highest levels of education of any health care professional. meet the right person. It doesn’t end there. The next step is to continue visualizing your desire with passion and enthusiasm throughout the day. This step is important because it keeps negative emotions such as fear of failure, doubt and uncertainty from interfering with your intended desire. Also, know that you have to take action. In other words, you can’t have a meaningful conversation at a cozy restaurant unless you are motivated enough to set the date, time and make a reservation. Remember what Einstein said, “Nothing happens until something moves.” I say, “Your life won’t happen unless you move.” So move! Do your part! Take action! Get motivated! Stay motivated! And don’t give up! When I made the decision to shift careers from being a standcontinued on page 12

Good News, Great Music & Warm People 2101 W. Chestnut Expwy. Springfield, MO 65802 (417) 865-4338

Service Times: Sunday 10:30 a.m. & Wednesday 6:00 p.m.

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IN THIS ISSUE

Health & Mental Fitness Grief: Coping with the loss of your loved one by Katherine C. Nordal, PhD American Psychological Association Coping with the loss of a close friend or family member may be one of the hardest challenges that many of us face. When we lose a spouse, sibling or parent our grief can be particularly intense. Loss is understood as a natural part of life, but we can still be overcome by shock and confusion, leading to prolonged periods of sadness or depression. The sadness typically diminishes in intensity as time passes, but grieving is an important process in order to overcome these feelings and continue to embrace the time you had with your loved one. Everyone reacts differently to death and employs personal

coping mechanisms for grief. Research shows that most people can recover from loss on their own through the passage of time if they have social support and healthy habits. It may take months or a year to come to terms with a loss. There is

no “normal” time period for someone to grieve. Don’t expect to pass through phases of grief either, as new research suggests that most people do not go through stages as progressive steps. If your relationship with the

deceased was difficult, this will also add another dimension to the grieving process. It may take some time and thought before you are able to look back on the relationship and adjust to the loss. Human beings are naturally resilient, considering most of us can endure loss and then continue on with our own lives. But some people may struggle with grief for longer periods of time and feel unable to carry out daily activities. Those with severe grief may be experiencing complicated grief. These individuals could benefit from the help of a psychologist or another licensed mental health professional with a specialization in grief. continued on page 11

Visualize and It Will Materialize by Steve Rizzo Success Magazine Visualization is a common sense success strategy that can keep you motivated and focused to achieve your goals throughout the day. As I’ve often said, “Visualize and it will materialize.” Visualization is the applying of your given gift of imagination to your faith and confidence. You can use it to discover ways to work through tough times, to rise above your problems and see the possibilities of a solution. It can also be used in the

process of healing or to manifest a particular desire. I know that doubt is the great nullifier when you want

a particular desire to manifest. When I visualize what I’m asking for as being answered, I am more confident and it enhances

my results. Having an unshakeable belief that my desires will manifest at the right time is certainly empowering. But when I see what I want in full detail, it reinforces the positive feelings I need to stay motivated throughout the day, regardless of setbacks and challenging circumstances. That continual motivation and the feelings that fuel it are crucial to manifest what I’m asking for. As you visualize, it’s important that you crank up your energy. I mean, really get into this! It won’t have much of an effect if you’re casually looking at continued on page 11

Community News

Spring Book Sale & Socialize With Seniors While Sharing Lunch At The Library by Kathleen O’Dell, Springfield-Greene County Library District The bargain book sale you’ve been waiting for is here! The Friends of the Library Spring Book Sale is April 25-29 at the E*Plex on the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds. Get loads Kathleen O'Dell of children’s books, popular young adult titles, adult books and like-new books, CDs and DVDs for $1 or less, better books are priced $2 and up. Hours are Wednesday-Saturday, April 25-28, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; and Sunday, April 29 (Bag Day) 1-5 p.m. Friends Night Preview Sale is 5-8 p.m. Tuesday, April 24, when Friends members get in free, or pay $5 at the door and convert it to a membership anytime that night. Cash or checks only, please. ••• The flu season of 20172018 was the worst in recent history, but the 1918 outbreak during World War I killed up to 100 million people worldwide. Author John M. Barry will talk about the worldwide impact of that deadly flu when he discontinued on page 11

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Taking a stand for our children by Gwen Marshall, SPS

Business

Comedian Byron Allen Bought The Weather Channel for $300 Million by BlackNews.com

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Lifestyle & Entertainment News

Movie Review: “I can only Imagine” by Lyle Foster

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UNITE. Volume 28, Number 4 PUBLISHER Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc. MANAGING EDITOR Samuel G. Knox CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lyle Foster Gwen Marshall Kathleen O'Dell Francine Pratt John Sellars PHOTOGRAPHY Tondaleigha Jones

Health & Mental Fitness

Grief: Coping with the loss of your loved one by Katherine C. Nordal, PhD

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City Employment Link The City of Springfield offers a variety of municipal career opportunities for individuals interested in public service. Job opportunities are updated each Friday and can be accessed through a number of mediums: Web: http://www.springfieldmo.gov/jobs; or TV: CityView on Mediacom Cable Digital Channel 80; or In Person: visiting our offices at 840 Boonville, Room 324, Springfield, MO 65802. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, status as a protected veteran, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with disability. Individuals with disabilities should request reasonable accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act prior to testing or appointment. Proof of United States Citizenship/Authorization to Work in The United States as established by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986 is a condition of employment. Pre-employment drug testing required.

VOLUNTEERS Tyra Knox Patrica Burton Laura Clark The Unite. publication is a monthly newspaper published by Unite of Southwest Missouri, Inc. a 501(c)(3) non-profit community organization. Distribution of Unite. is by free circulation at various locations. However, request for home delivery by mail may be directed to Unite. P. O. Box 1745, Springfield, Missouri 65801 and accompanied by $25. for one year’s postage and handling. Those wishing to make a contribution or become a monthly sponsor should direct correspondence to the same address. Readers comments and questions are welcomed. The opinions expressed in these pages do not necessarily reflect the views of Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc. “The Unite Publication in accepting advertising in this publication, makes no independent investigation concerning the services of products advertised and neither endorses nor recommends the same and assumes no liability therefore.” For further information, you can contact us at (417) 864-7444. Email: unitepublication@yahoo. com

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CommunityNews

I Can Only Imagine continued from page 8

Taking a stand for our children and gone. Volunteers and role some years ago, I encountered models (both men and women) women like Mary Martin, in our schools are critical. The Marian Wright Edelman, Alberta Knox, Georgia Queen popular hashtag #seeittobeit is president and founder of Burton, Gladys Redd, Gertha reminds us that our students the Children's Defense Fund. Clark, and Bobbie Knox, women can benefit from seeing people Edelman once said, “When I of great strength and tenaciwho look like them, during the fight about what is ty. They passed their school day. As we pass our wisgoing on in the neighstrength and wisdom dom and knowledge forward, borhood, or when I down to my generation, we will see positive results in fight about what is and now it is our turn to our schools and the attitudes happening to other pay it forward. We have of our young people. They are people's children, I'm a great responsibility to waiting for us to show them the doing that because I the next generation, in way. want to leave a commuareas such as education, Gwen Marshall So who was your role model nity and a world that (alternative education and what impact did they leave is better than the one I found.” and programs) as well as modelon your life? Think about how Edelman was the first African ing love and concern for others. thankful you are that they were American woman admitted It is important for us to advocate there, just for you. Then think to The Mississippi Bar and later for our children, even after our about what you can do to be a became an NAACP lawyer. She biological children have grown was a woman of great strength, determination, and purpose. Marian Wright Edelman has spent a lifetime as an advocate for all children regardless of mentoring under-employed Francine Pratt and race religion or creed. In the Sharon Ellard community members find that it midst of adversity Edelman Unite Contributing Writers is hard for a family to increase has lived up to the motto their prosperity when they hear After years of research and “Nevertheless, She Persisted.” comments such as: “If I data collection, it is As we look around us, we take this $.50 per hour clear that many of can see women in our commupay raise, I will lose our under-resourced nity who persisted and have $200 per month in food residents are working, made an impact on many lives. assistance. I can barebut they face hurdles Perhaps a teacher, a politician, a ly support my family as they strive to make minister or even your neighbor now. I know I need to ends meet. The cliff comes to mind. When I think take promotions to get effect is one of those of women who have the grit to Francine Pratt on my feet, but I don’t hurdles. The term cliff overcome obstacles and lead by know how to feed my effect refers to a financial example, I think of my mothchildren until I get there.” impact that under-employed er, Mae Mahaffey Moore. She There are no easy answers. workers in our community expetaught me everything I needed However, several local employrience as their wages gradually to know about life. This month ers are increasing starting increase but the increase causes I am encouraging mothers, wages for entry-level positions a loss of government subsidies aunts, grandmothers, and sisand providing job skill develsuch as food, child care, health ters to stand up and advocate opment for existing employees insurance, and other resourcfor our young people that need to promote into higher paying es. David Freeman, Outreach our help. jobs. There are also local proDirector for Schweitzer United When I came to Springfield grams through the Missouri Job Methodist Church, and others By Gwen Marshall Unite Contributing Writer

positive influence on someone else’s life. As women we have the opportunity to have a strong influence on our children, so we might as well use that influence to impact the world. Woman, how divine your mission, Here upon our natal sod; Keep—oh, keep the young heart open Always to the breath of God! All true trophies of the ages Are from mother-love impearled, For the hand that rocks the cradle Is the hand that rules the world. Excerpted from the poem "The Hand That Rocks The Cradle Is the Hand That Rules The World"

by William Ross Wallace

Do You Know About the Cliff Effect? Center such as the Change 1000 program to increase employability skills that can lead to better paying jobs. The Northwest Project and the Dream Center provide holistic approaches to empower families to develop long-term sustainable skills that includes increased job skills for better paying jobs. Ozarks Technical Community College has a host of certification programs for specific industry certifications. Some of OTC’s programs only take a year – all in fields of work needed in the Springfield region. For employers who have vacant positions, creating apprenticeship programs or downsizing positions for training purposes are just a couple of ways to have existing employcontinued from page 5

Christ and the next installment of the God’s Not Dead franchise series. I sincerely hope that you get to see one of these films that will

Van Gogh's

continued from page 8 warm and inviting and adds something very special to the Springfield restaurant scene. Now a very special heads up, the restaurant is new in terms of just opened so they are still hitting their stride but the response has been great and the reviews from the people in the street are that they really like it! And in case you haven’t heard the cuisine is Dutch inspired..yes like in the Netherlands. C street is very quickly becoming a cool niche inspired place with international cuisine which for locals is somewhat hard to imagine I know. Owner Joe Gidman went straight to the Netherlands to get inspiration and ideas for the menu and the ambiance. This is the year to expand our horizons. The restaurant Van Gogh’s Eeterie has Dutch cuisine which makes for some interesting and cool breakfast selections and then morphs into Dutch-Indo cuisine at night for another wonderful twist to Dutch cuisine. We have learned it is the only real Dutch cuisine in the state and the Dutch consulate in St. Louis is giving it strong reviews and letting fans of Dutch cuisine across the state know that it is here. And guess what? People are coming to C street from around the state to taste the menu options! Are we moving on up or what? Just so that you know the

remind us of hope in difficult times. Next month we will be back with the latest in diverse films and give us some summer previews as well. Happy Easter and a blessed spring to everyone! I can Only Imagine 93 out of 100

menu offerings will not be like your typical breakfast and lunch offerings at more traditional breakfast places but that is the great thing about food and restaurants….we can travel the world in our own home towns. They make the Dutch pancake and Stroopwafels and yes you will need to go or look these dishes up to know more about them. That’s the fun of it all and the educational experience. They even have what I think is a great name for a European inspired dish the Brexit Breakfast. How is that for a soft political statement? These are not your typical pancakes as they are Dutch inspired and there are gluten free and vegetarian options as well. Be sure to ask if you want to know what a dish is and there are more traditional bacon and egg offerings on the menu as well as a children’s menu. Lunch and dinner options are also available. They are closed on Monday’s. Perfect place for brunch. I enjoyed my experience and first visit to Van Gogh and will definitely be back to celebrate the restaurant and culinary delights of C street. 3 ½ forks!!!

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Disney Donates $1 Million to Youth STEM Program in Celebration of ‘Black Panther’

Nationwide — In celebration of the record-breaking success of Marvel Studios’ Black Panther, The Walt Disney Company is donating $1 million to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA). The donation will help expand Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s youth STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) programs, supporting the high-tech skills that were a major theme in the plot of Black Panther and are essential in helping youth succeed. “Marvel Studios’ Black Panther is a masterpiece of movie making and has become an

Bahamas

continued from page 8 help of Rexy, delved into the issue and eventually found favorable solutions. "Once my team and I began fine-tuning arrival and departure into the issue and eventually found favorable solutions. times, our performance began to improve. Our ticket sales increased also," Rexy said. Rexy is up to even more expansion plans for this year 2018

instant cultural phenomenon, sparking discussion, inspiring people young and old, and breaking down age-old industry myths,” said Robert A. Iger, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company. “It is thrilling to see how inspired young audiences were by the spectacular technology in the film, so it’s fitting that we show our appreciation by helping advance STEM programs for youth, especially in underserved areas of the country, to give them the knowledge and tools to build the future they want.” as they plan to increase their online and social media presence to be able to be noticed internationally. "Be confident in what you know and I say that over again," she said as an inspiration to every woman. "Trust your staff, partners, and most importantly yourself." For more information about Western Air Bahamas or to book a flight online, visit www.westernairbahamas.com

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Arts&Entertainment News

The Cliff Effect

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Movie Review: “I Can Only Imagine” woke everyone! Because of the Easter holiday and my personal concern that Well, Panther fever is still we need peace on Earth like amongst us and at the writing never before and some real spirof this column the film is still at it this month’s column will refer local theaters which gives me to one of the Easter films that and you the opportunity to see is doing well on the big screen. it again. Well, yes and There actually are sevagain! This columnist eral films out now that predicts that in the have faith based mesnear future I won’t be sages and provide a lot able to keep up with of inspiration and hope. the number of films I realize a lot of readers that will be coming out are people of faith and a sharing the stories of lot of films contain condiverse people after tent that can be offenLyle Foster this blockbuster and sive to believers or we recent other successes. Well, I rather not take it all in. We can won’t be bothered by that in the usually count on the Easter sealeast but instead welcome it and son to give us a few inspirational we might just have to mention films on the big screen and at three movies in one column. home to give hope and bring How’s that? the good book to life. Even We certainly wish everyone though there have been a few a beautiful and special Easter films that did not do as well as season and we also want to hoped for in the past few years, acknowledge that April 4 is the a few others did well. And I’m 50th anniversary of the assassithe first to complain about the nation of Dr. King. Please look low budget Christian films that if you feel so inclined for opporsometimes look like they made tunities in the community to them in the church fellowship be involved and commemorate hall which makes them hard to this important observance. Stay compete with all of the special By Lyle Foster Unite Contributing Writer

effects and CGI of the big blockbusters. I recently saw Samson and there are some more to check out as well. I cannot give the best endorsement to all but it is hard to sometimes give a thumbs down to “Good Book” films. Samson got its point across to it’s not the worse film made or the best but it tells the story of Samson. The film I do want to mention is “I Can Only Imagine”… yes, the same as the song. Most Christian music fans know this as the song Lionsgate 2018 made more than famous by Christian artist Mercy Me and for those of us who follow gospel music we also know that gospel sensation Tamela Man killed it also with her version. Interesting fact “I Can Only Imagine” is the top Christian single song for sales of all time. And the current film is the very inspirational and

moving story behind the song. It is also doing very well at the box office despite the skepticism of Hollywood industry executives. Dennis Quaid plays the role of an abusive dad in the film and it is worth watching and the simplest thing I can say is that there is a testimony behind the song. And there were some pretty cool stories in the making of the film and it is packing movie theaters across the nation. In fact Christian movie are seeing a revival reminiscent of the days of the blockbuster The Passion of Christ. Remember that? Check out I Can Only Imagine... it will be the perfect Easter film for you and for your family. That song has brought many of us through a dark night. And there are a few more films also out including Paul, Apostle of continued on page 9

employees promote and earn a few dollars more. Paid internships are a great way to retain college students in our community. Springfield has many awesome employers that are willing to support the workforce. Also, the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce works with employers to share information about the types of resources they may be able to provide to their employees such as tuition reimbursement or pre-

THE

FUEL THAT DRIVES SOUTHWEST

paid tuition, child care assistance or even flexible hours for workers to attend training that can help increase their skills. When more Springfield families prosper, our whole community will benefit. Prosper Springfield is a collective impact initiative focused on a shared community vision to improve economic mobility in the Springfield community. The Prosper Springfield mission is to build community relationships and align community resources to create pathways that help move people to prosperity. The

OTC contributed $234 million to the southwest Missouri economy during the 2015-2016 school year.

By Lyle Foster Unite Contributing Writer

If you have not been keeping up you may or may not know that the hottest food scene in the city is now emerging on C street in Springfield. Yes, you read that right C Street as in Com-

mercial Street. The street was recently designated a great place in Missouri which is a special designation and amazing to think how far this street has come. I am breaking one of my own rules today in this column because I have never mentioned Big Momma’s

Coffee and Espresso Bar but since our last column we were voted the best lunch in the Ozarks in a News-Leader poll. And that means a lot to me and we don’t take that lightly. Thank you Springfield and thanks readers of this column. It means more than you know! Now to the review there is

ECONOMIC

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Call: (417) 864-7444

EMSI, an independent economic consulting company, measured OTC’s impact by evaluating the increased spending power of the college’s graduates, their improved productivity and the investments the college makes in the communities it serves.

Memorial Service for Men Hanged in 1906 Springfield, MO—On April 14, 2018 the "Ghost People" will host a memorial service for the three young men who were hung in Springfield, MO on the City Square, on April 14, 1906. The service will held at Nichols Park, 1900 W. Nichols at 11:30 am. According to city records, it was Easter Sunday, Mr. Coker, Mr Duncan and Mr. Allen were victims of a senseless crime. This event is open to the public. For more information contact Arthur Hodge at foxdelta75@yahoo.com

IMPACTS CREATED BY OTC ADDED INCOME

JOBS

$63 MILLION Operations Spending Impact

2,383

$1.9 MILLION Construction Spending Impact $17.1 MILLION Student Spending Impact $152 MILLION Alumni Spending Impact

46 367

2,782

ENGINE The need.

The progress.

The future.

In 1998, Ozarks’ voters agreed to a 5-cent property tax increase for OTC to bring the college’s assessment to 15 cents — the lowest of any community college in Missouri.

After Ozarks voters said “yes” to an additional 5-cent property tax in 1998, OTC delivered on its promise to serve the community and train the workforce by:

An additional 5 cents will allow OTC to achieve the following:

Since 1998, OTC has produced more than 23,000 graduates and student enrollment has tripled from around 7,000 students served per year to 20,000.

On April 3, 2018, the renewal of that nickel will be on the ballot.

a new restaurant on C street and it is absolutely stunning and takes the street and the city to a whole nother level! Yes I did say that. The restoration of the space is exceptional with the high tin ceilings and large expansive windows. The space is

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EMSI determined that students earn $5.30 for every dollar they invest in an OTC education.

MISSOURI’S

That 5-cent property tax will expire in 2018.

Restaurant Review: C Street Van Gogh's

column will run every other Thursday. Today’s column was co-written by Sharon Ellard, a Give Five volunteer, and Prosper Springfield Director, Francine Pratt. For more information about Prosper Springfield, contact Francine Pratt at 417888-2020. Prosper Springfield - Uniting Resources. Improving Lives.

On that same election day, the college will ask for an additional 5 cents, bringing OTC’s property tax levy to just 20 cents — still the lowest of any community college in Missouri.

$234 MILLION Total Impact

•

Constructing the Industry and Transportation Technology Center, which houses technical programs, including welding, automotive technology and manufacturing.

•

Adding more than 20 technical and healthcare degrees, including dental hygiene and aviation.

•

Opening four new campuses and centers around the Ozarks.

Renewing that nickel will allow OTC to continue programs that benefit students and the community.

5,579 Total Jobs

•

Create a Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Technology in Springfield. This will house new programs such as: • Mechatronics • Precision Manufacturing • Stainless Steel Production • 3-D Printing

•

Expand technical and allied health programs at the Richwood Valley and Table Rock campuses.

•

Develop new programs to meet community demands, such as, cybersecurity, and provide additional training for displaced workers.

April Unite Page 7

April Unite Page 6

The BusinessSection A Directory of free or low cost Business Assistance

Byron Allen

Comedian Byron Allen Bought the Weather Channel for $300 Million

Small Business Administration (SBA) www.sba.gov 417-890-8501

Comedian, Entrepreneur and Media Mogul, Byron Allen

Nationwide —Most people know Byron Allen as a funny comedian, but he is also a successful entrepreneur and media mogul as the CEO/owner of Entertainment Studios, Inc., one of the largest independent producers

and distributors of film and television. His Los Angeles-based company currently has 41 shows on the air, and owns eight 24-hour HD cable television networks reaching nearly 160 million aggregate subscribers

NASCAR’s First Ever African American Female Driver Nationwide — The road success of being a professional race car driver is not easy. Much more if you’re considered a minority. But Shauntia Latrice Norfleet, better known as Tia Norfleet, is an African American and a woman. And she is the first Black woman to be licensed by NASCAR. “I think my story is still being written from when I started, to now, I think that what I stand for is so much bigger than me,” said Norfleet. “Coming into it, I

that’s not the case.”

continued from page 6

Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) www.score.org 417-866-8641

1Million Cups Every Wednesday Morning 8:30 am -10:00 am SGF Art Museum 1111 E. Brookside Drive Free admission

NASCAR

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Minorities In Business 8th Annual Heritage Award April 12, 2018 Doubletree Hotel Reception at 6:00 p.m. Dinner at 6:45 p.m. For tickets call: 417-837-2631

Small Business & Technology Development Center sbtdc.missouristate.edu 417-837-2617

networks division. The acquisition of The Weather Channel is strategic, as we begin our process of investing billions of dollars over the next five years to acquire some of the best media assets around the world." In 2016, Allen also purchased TheGrio.com, a digital video-centric news community platform devoted to providing Afri-

can-Americans with compelling stories and perspectives currently underrepresented in existing national news outlets. TheGrio features aggregated and original video packages, news articles and opinion pieces on topics that include breaking news, politics, health, business and entertainment. For more details about Byron Allen or his company, visit www. es.tv

thought I just wanted to race and then it turned into ‘I have to do this to open up doors for other people like me.'” Among the many roadblocks she encountered, one is the high expenses associated with racing. Even just the practices require having access to premium NASCAR vehicles, mechanical crew, proper safety gear, and many others. ““From the business side, the biggest challenge is obtaining continued on page 7

Shauntia Latrice (Tia) Norfleet

nationwide. And now, his company is the proud new owner of the Weather Channel! The Weather Channel is one of the largest cable television networks not owned by a major conglomerate, and ranks number one in weather news. Harris Poll has ranked The Weather Channel as the "TV News Brand of the Year" for eight years in a row, and the network is the nation's most trusted resource for daily weather information. "The Weather Channel is one of the most trusted and extremely important cable networks, with information vitally important to the safety and protection of our lives," said Allen. "We welcome The Weather Channel, which has been seen in American households for nearly four decades, to our cable television continued on page 7

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Only $25. per year Call: (417)864-7444

Norfleet is a history maker

sponsorship,”” said Norfleet. “A

because she is the first Afri-

lot of people don’t understand

can-American woman to be

the dynamics of how racing actu-

licensed by both NASCAR, Na-

ally works. They think you get

tional Association of Stock Car

a license, you get qualified and

Auto Racing, and ARCA, the

you’re going to be in every race

Automobile Racing Club of

because you’re qualified, but

America.

Meet 29-Year Old who is Running the Largest Black-Owned Airline in the Bahamas

Sherrexcia (Rexy) Rolle

West Bahamas—The aviation sector is known to be generally dominated by men, but women in recent years have been slowly rising up as pilots, managers, and owners. Sherrexcia 'Rexy' Rolle, the 29-year old Vice Pres-

ident of Western Air Bahamas, is one of the youngest that has taken up the role. Starting out as a baggage handler, Rexy is now taking the Vice President of Western Air Bahamas. The airline, founded in 2001 by her parents Rex and Shandrice Rolle, is now one of the largest privately owned airline company in the Bahamas with over $90 million net worth. Most of its success is credited to Rexy. Without a doubt, Rexy is taking good care of the company her parents have persistently and dedicatedly established. Some of the challenges the company faced since it started operations are time management and delays. The company, with the continued on page 9

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Are you inspired to create a better future for yourself and others? If so, Missouri State has a place for you. With a campus community filled with diverse perspectives, voices and opinions, Missouri State is fulfilling its commitment to address the needs of a changing society.

Missouri State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Minority/Female/Veterans/Disability/Sexual Orientation/ Gender Identity Employer and Institution. Employment will require a criminal background check at university expense.

ARE YOU READY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE? APPLY TODAY AND

www.jobs.missouristate.edu