2018 Mar Unite

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Apply Today for the Diversity Scholarship/Internship Program by Central Bank. The 2018 program provides financial assistance to current high school seniors wishing to attend Missouri State University (Springfield), Evangel, Drury University, OTC (Springfield/Ozark) or other Southwest-Missouri colleges. Included is a paid part-time internship to supplement educational opportunities and income, and to enhance the educational process.

March 2018 Volume 28/ Number 3 • A Monthly Publication by Unite of Southwest Missouri, Inc •

www.unitenewsonline.org

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5 Books Every Millennial Entrepreneur Must Read On Page 6

Building Empowering Connections In Our Diverse Community

Springfield First Friday Art Walk

The program is designed to gain awareness with minority students about career opportunities at Central Bank of the Ozarks and within the Central Bancompany family so they might be encouraged to seek employment with us once they have obtained their undergraduate degree. Application forms are due by April 13, 2018. For more information, please contact your school’s counselor, or Anta Williams at Central Bank 417-881-3100.

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Springfield, MO—The first Friday of each month brings hundreds of people to historic downtown Springfield for First Friday Art Walk, a Springfield cultural happening. Art lovers “Walk the Walk” throughout the Downtown Arts District, enjoyContinued on Page 5

Start Up Seminar How to Start a Business in Missouri

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

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NewsOnline

Building Empowering Connections In Our Diverse Community

Maame Biney made history at the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics Nationwide — Maame Biney made national headlines when she qualified in speedskating for her first Olympic team at the December 2017 track trials. The video of the 18-year-old high

school senior in the final qualifying race went viral and was watched more than five million times on Facebook. Originally from Ghana, Biney is the first black woman to make the

Olympic speedskating team and the second-ever African-born athlete to represent the U.S. in the Winter Olympics. Biney finished second in Continued on Page 2

Sydnor Named Youth of the Year! See stor y on Page 7

Springfield, MO— The 4th annual Great Futures Celebration was held in Springfield on Tuesday Feb 13th. The event put on by the Boys And Girls Club Of Springfield recognizes young people who are productive, responsible and caring citizens. This year's

Youth of the Year winner award is Jaydun Sydnor. Jaydun goes to Hillcrest High School and as Youth of the Year, has been awarded $16,000 in scholarships. "I was just filled with excitement. I was so happy," Jaydun says. "I mean I went for it a couple years in the past and I Continued on Page 2

Jaydun Sydnor

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Maame Biney

continued from page 1 the opening round in her heat (43.665 seconds) behind China’s Fan Kexin (43.350 seconds). Her incredible block and strong maneuver are what held off South Korea’s Kim Alang who finished third, ensuring her advancement. However, Maame Biney’s PyeongChang Olympics came to an end Saturday night, as the 18-year-old finished last in her 1,500-meter short-track heat. After briefly taking the lead early in the race, Biney dropped to the back of the pack, eventually finishing with a time of 2 minutes, 31.819 seconds to come in last in a field of six. It was the second time in the space of just a few days that Biney had finished last in a race. On Tuesday, she was eliminated from the quarterfinals of the 500m, considered her signature event, when she came in fourth. Biney’s finish in the 1500m was a full two seconds behind the third and final qualifier from the heat, Canadian Valerie Maltais. Zhou Yan of China finished second to go through along with

winner, Elise Christie of Great Britain. While she may be going home without a medal, Biney has already made history at these Games, as the first black woman to qualify for the U.S. Olympic speed skating team. Born in Ghana, Biney and her father moved to Virginia in hopes of better opportunities. Little did they know that those opportunities would include going to Pyeongchang to compete for the Winter Olympics. “I don’t really feel pressure to be the first to get a medal or anything like that, I just want to go out there, do my best and have fun, and experience the Olympics. That’s what I’m here for. I’m here to win, obviously, but also have fun.”

Youth of the Year continued from page 1

didn't win it. I know this was my senior year and this was my last chance - I was just excited." Established in 1947, Youth of the Year is a premier recognition program celebrating Club members who demonstrate service to Club, community and

family; academic success; strong moral character; life goals; poise and public speaking ability. The program is used as a year-round tool for fostering young people’s character, personal growth and leadership qualities. How it Works Each month a Youth of the Month candidate is chosen from three local Clubs. Those three members are interviewed by local judges based on the qualities mentioned. One of those members is chosen as the Youth of the Month. At the end of the year, that gives twelve members to compete for the Springfield Youth of the Year title and a $12,000 college scholarship sponsored by BGC Partners in Education. Each Boys & Girls Club organization in Missouri has the

opportunity to nominate their Youth of the year candidate for the State Youth of the Year Competition. One of the outstanding young people will be announced as the Missouri State Youth of the Year. He or she will represent the State for the next year, and will have the opportunity to join the Youths of the Year from the other 12 states in the Midwest region to compete for the title of Midwest Regional Youth of the Year. The winner of the Midwest Regional Youth of the Year title will receive a $10,000 college scholarship. The Midwest Regional Youth of the Year will then go on to compete for the title of National Youth of the Year at Washington DC, representing the Boys & Girls Club members across the country.

Springfield Black History Moment Since Easter will be early this year I thought I would put in a picture of a congregation on what looks to be an Easter Sunday. This is from a church in my neighborhood on E. McDaniel Street called Mt. Eagle Baptist Church. I hope your Easter morning is as bright and sunny as this one some forty years ago. —John Sellars

You’re Just the Person We’ve Been Looking For City Utilities is looking for motivated people to partner with to provide our customers with the care and service they’ve come to expect. If you’re a contractor who thinks outside the box, a vendor with an item to sell, or a hardworking person looking for a great place to work, look no further than CU. For more information on opportunities at CU, log on to cityutilities.net.

Library

Criticism

1, 1836, an angry mob that included Springfield’s founder dragged Milly into the street and beat her. Rediscovered court documents illustrate a forgotten chapter of history, but raise more questions: Who was she, and where did she go? News-Leader reporter Giacomo Bologna will share the mystery with a panel including Connie Yen, director of the Greene County Archives; Anne Twitty, University of Mississippi associate professor of history; and Library Local History Associate John Rutherford. ••• The Big Read returns to Springfield in April with the featured title “Station Eleven” by Emily St. John Mandel. We invite everyone to read a copy of the book (available at thelibrary. org/catalog), and drop in on the events planned around the book’s themes of survival and preparedness; “escape rooms” challenges, cults and exhibits. We’re also featuring the book “The Great Influenza: The Story of the Deadliest Pandemic in History” by John M. Barry. Meet and hear St. John Mandel at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 12 at the Library Center. Meet Barry during his talk at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 19, at the Library Center. Both will sell and sign books. See the full schedule of events at thelibrary.org/bigread. ••• Kathleen O’Dell is community

deserve to know so they can improve their work. And if your partner is acting in a way that upsets you, he or she should know why. Keeping this research in mind, here are a few tips for delivering criticism. • Think about your motives. Are you criticizing someone because you’re in a bad mood or you want to put him or her down? Stop, take a deep breath and walk away. Criticism based on anger and contempt will only lead to destruction of the relationship. • Never attack the person. Instead, criticize the action. Do your best to separate the behavior and the person. Don’t attack the person’s character; focus on the behavior. This allows the person to consider the feedback without feeling as defensive. • Deliver one piece of criticism at a time. The late Clifford Nass, Ph.D., a researcher at Stanford University, discovered that people can take in only one critical comment at a time. Pick only the most important thing to share.

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relations director of the SpringCity Utilities of Springfield 301 East Central, Springfield MO 417.863.9000 cityutilities.net 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.

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

field-Greene County Library District. She can be reached at kathleeno@thelibrary.org.

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Rise Up

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1. Take time to feel your pain. When you’ve hit the ground on all fours, you may feel the need to deny your situation or take it for granted. Don’t. Instead, allow yourself to be vulnerable to the way you feel. If you feel angry for being fired, inadequate for a failed business or depressed that your spouse left you, accept what you feel. Taking time to feel your emotions and grieving your situation

is a good start to refocusing yourself for what’s to come. You can’t rise from a fall by avoiding the fact that you fell and actually got hurt. If you do so, the pain will pile up and weigh you down at a later time. 2. Accept what you can’t change. This is like grieving, but more about understanding that what’s happened can’t be undone. If your business failed and you’re deep in debt, you can’t change that fact. Not in a day, at least, and definitely not by numbing or ignoring the situation you’re in. 3. Be kind, and forgive yourself. When life knocks you down, it’s normal to feel guilty, blame yourself and even add self-hate to that pile. However, at the end of the day, you must learn to forgive yourself and find a door within the darkness. Think about all the people that have been in your situation and successfully lived through it. What did they do to recover? 4. Evaluate your options, and redefine your goals. Once you’ve forgiven yourself and are ready for the next move, it’s time to evaluate your options. Ask yourself what can be done differently by assessing what went wrong. If you made mistakes, write each one of them down to learn from your behavior. If it was something you didn’t do, think about how you’ll change things up next time around. Remember that one of the daily habits of successful people is goal setting. You, too, should write down your long-term goals and break them down into smaller daily goals. 5. Map out a plan for your goals. “A goal without a plan is just a wish.” This quote by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry is a great reminder that just having a goal

is not enough. You can write it down, break it down into as many small daily goals as you want, but if you don’t have an action plan to execute it, all will be in vain. So make plans around your goal. If your goal is to heal from a breakup and one of your smaller goals is to read inspirational books, make plans to buy the book. Even this plan could include smaller tasks, like identifying the right book by searching online or asking for referrals. But most importantly, remember to not give up. You haven’t failed until you quit, so keep at it.

Affordable Housing Opportunities There are currently housing vacancies in the City of Springfield’s program for rental or home ownership. These programs include requirements for fair marketing and non-discrimination. You must be income eligible to qualify. For rental, call Marti Fewell, 417-864-1039 For home ownership, call LeeAnn Camey, 417-888-2020

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IN THIS ISSUE

Health & Mental Fitness How to Use Criticism to Your Advantage Never attack the person. Criticize the action. by Mel Robbins

Let me guess: Hearing the words, “We need to talk” from a boss, partner or friend sends you into panic mode. If you hate hearing about the things you’ve done wrong and the mistakes you’ve made, you’re not alone. But it’s a catch-22. We don’t like being criticized, but honest feedback is one of the most valuable tools we have for self-improvement. Criticism hurts for a reason, and the explanation lies in neuroscience. In order to keep us alive, our brains have evolved to react much more strongly to negative things. The brain has evolved this way for a good reason: to keep us safe. Just as

20,000 years ago, the brain was trying to keep hunter-gatherers safe from warring tribes, your brain reacts the same way to a critical comment from your spouse or boss. But just because that negative feedback hurts, should your

partner have avoided giving it? And should you avoid doing the same? No way—as long as you put a little bit of thought into it. Research from the University of Michigan shows that the right dose of constructive criticism

is actually one of the biggest factors in predicting a high-performing team. And research from John Gottman, Ph.D., a top relationship researcher, also found there’s a sweet spot for how much criticism helps keep relationships alive. Both teams of researchers arrived at a similar conclusion: In order to keep a relationship or work team performing well, five or six positive interactions were needed for every one criticism or negative interaction. Criticism, when delivered thoughtfully, helps teams perform better and helps people improve their behavior. It also wakes people up and makes them realize they can’t be complacent. If people on your team are doing a terrible job, they continued on page 11

How to Rise Up After Life Knocks You Down No one reaches a goal without persevering through difficult times. by Alex Jasin

“It doesn’t matter how far you might rise. At some point, you’re bound to stumble.” Oprah Winfrey spoke these words while giving a commencement speech at Harvard University, and I continue to find more truth in this statement the longer I live. Each one of us experiences a few “stumbles” in our life. Some of us have the mental scars to show for it, too. Maybe you just got fired from your job and

don’t know how to start over. Or maybe you’re trying with all your might to find a new one without any luck.

Sometimes we work hard for the things we truly believe in, only for life to not go according to our plans. In these moments,

you might feel like throwing in the towel. Or that it’s just not worth the heartache to go after your dreams. These feelings of pain and doubt are normal, but they shouldn’t stop you. In fact, when you realize you’ve hit rock bottom, there’s only one way to go, and that’s up. The process may be a difficult one and may even take away all your energy, but with a strategy and will, it can surely be done. Here are some of the best steps you can take to achieve your definition of success after life knocks you down: continued on page 11

Community News

Find Out About the Mystery Of Milly Sawyers At The Library by Kathleen O’Dell, Springfield-Greene County Library District Are you ready for 35 presentations in one day, 100 percent free? Then come to the HowTo Festival from 10 a.m.3:15 p.m. Saturday, March 24, at the Library Center. In this secKathleen O'Dell ond year of the festival, experts will offer lively, hands-on lessons on self-defense, dream journaling, nature photography, line dancing, book publishing and more. Learn about virtual reality and gaming, watch the Library's 3-D printer in action, and shop the Between Friends Gift Shop Sidewalk Sale. Visit thelibrary. org/howtofestival for a schedule of topics and presenters. ••• Get ready to hear about a forgotten story of early Springfield in The Mystery of Milly Sawyers at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 29, in the Library Center auditorium. Milly Sawyers, one of Springfield’s earliest residents in 1836, was a black woman who had just won her freedom in Greene County Court, despite citizen protests. On April continued on page 11

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What Should Every Parent Know about Bullying? by Gwen Marshall, SPS

Business

5 Books Every Millennial Entrepreneur Must Read by Carolyn M. Brown

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Lifestyle & Entertainment News

“Black Panther” Hype of a Legitimate Success by Lyle Foster

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UNITE. Volume 28, Number 3 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

How to Use Criticism to Your Advantage by Mel Robbins

GORMAN-SCHARPF FUNERAL HOME, INC

The Quality And Care That You Expect In 242 Years Of Combined Experience W. Bruce Howell Robert J. Lohmeyer Don R. Lohmeyer Heather K. Howell Angela N. Collins Harley R. Williams 886-9996 Clint W. Mease Russ Allen

(417) 886-9994 • Fax: (417) 1947 E. Seminole Springfield, Missouri 65804

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

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

Black Panther

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What Should Every Parent Know about Bullying? tors do apply to every child. • A perception that a child is different from their peers, such As a parent, does the word as being overweight or underbullying strike fear in your weight, wearing glasses or difheart? The thought that it has ferent clothing, being new to a happened or could hapschool, or being unable pen to your child could to afford what kids conbe a difficult reality to sider “cool.” experience. The key is • Are perceived as knowing what bullying weak or unable to is and what to do. defend themselves. What is bullying? • Are depressed, anxIn 2014, the Centers ious, or have low self-esGwen Marshall for Disease Control teem. and Department of Education • Are less popular than others released the first federal uniand have few friends. form definition of bullying. The • Do not get along well with core elements of the definition others, seen as annoying, proinclude: unwanted aggressive voking, or one who antagonizes behavior; observed or perceived others for attention. power imbalance; and repetition What about bullying and suiof behaviors or high likelihood cide? The relationship between of repetition. There are different bullying and suicide is complex modes and types of bullying according to StopBullying.gov. which include direct (directly Some media reports oversimpliin the presence of a targeted fy this relationship, insinuating youth) and indirect (one person, or directly stating that bullying or group of people, undermines can cause suicide. or tries to ruin someone’s repu• Research indicates that tation by spreading rumors and persistent bullying can lead gossiping behind his/her back). to or worsen feelings of isolaBullying can occur in different tion, rejection, exclusion, and places and by different methdespair, as well as depression ods: online through cellphones, and anxiety, which can contribe-mail and internet chat room. ute to suicidal behavior. Who Is at Risk? No single • The vast majority of young factor puts a child at risk- bulpeople who experience bullying lying can happen anywhere, at do not become suicidal. any time in any city, neighbor• Most young people who die hood or school. Some targeted by suicide have multiple risk groups include those from the factors. LGBTQ community, youth with • Some youth, such as LGBTQ disabilities, and youth that are youth, are at increased risk for socially isolated. Children that suicide attempts even when bulexperience bullying may have lying is not a factor. one or more of the following What Is Your Parental Role? risk factors. However, these fac• Know the laws and your By Gwen Marshall Unite Contributing Writer

school policies on bullying. • Become involved in your child’s school life. At the first sign of suspecting that your child may be a victim of bullying, you should immediately approach their teacher with as many specific examples/times as possible to discuss how you can partner with them to ensure your child’s safety. • Spend more time with your child and build a tight relationship of mutual trust and love. • Teach them communication and problem-solving skills, encourage them to practice interactive speaking and implement a sense of security and safety in their life. When adults respond quickly and consistently to bullying

behavior, they send the message that it is not acceptable and will not be tolerated. Research shows this alone can stop bullying behavior over time. There are simple steps all adults can take to stop bullying on the spot and keep kids safe. • Intervene immediately. It is ok to get another adult to help. • Separate the kids involved. • Make sure everyone is safe. • Meet any immediate medical or mental health needs. • Stay calm. Reassure the kids involved, including bystanders. • Model respectful behavior when you intervene. Recognize that as parents, school staff, and other caring adults we all have a role to play in preventing bullying.

Prosper Springfield – EquityFocused Goals Francine Pratt Unite Contributing Writer

with the local universities. The school district, community college and universities partnered Prior to 2013, the Springfield with community organizations community recognized a conto address this issue with varitinuous achievement ous programs and projgap at the high school ects. Starting in 2013, level, highest with the community proAfrican American duced (a continues to students. At the comproduce) a Community munity college level, Focus Report based on they were experiencing two years of previous a 50% dropout rate data and analysis. The Francine Pratt with African American report reflects Blue Flags males and similar retention issues were experienced

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excited that we turn our brains off) is that the basic secret of Wakanda is a bit far fetched. And yes I know that films of this sort don’t always have the most plausible or logical plots but this one is a bit far fetched….let’s do a bit better writing. In case you don’t do a lot on social media you may want to know also there are two scenes during the film credits…..you may want to stay for the first one

SCT

continued from page 8 activism, poverty, police brutality and women's rights. Directed by SCT Co-Artistic Director Rick Dines, Ragtime is music directed by Alex Huff with choreography by Haley Rolland. This production features the performances of Adam Baker, Andy Bryan, Reneé ElKady, Mikil Hernandez, Christian Holt, Matt Huebner, Lavelle Johnston, Olivia Marie Jones, Johnnie Angelia King, Denna Langston, Kris Langston, Ellie Maji, Jaxson Marte, Vince Miller, Kaleb Norman, Andrew Phinney, Erin Scheibe, Ron Seney, Deon Shotwell, Ellen Spann, Jeffrey Stringer, Londyn Wheeler and Tony Wheeler. Also, SCT opens award-winning playwright Lucas Hnath's The Christians March 23 for a three week run through April 8 playing Friday and Saturdays at 7:30p.m. and Sundays at 2:00p.m. Directed by Terry Bloodworth and starring Andie Bottrell, Dejuan Boyd, Michael Lee, Bryant Turnage and Adie Williams and including an onstage choir. Twenty years ago, Pastor

at least. I like the film for so many reasons and def realize it is something that our community needs. It’s clear the film sets the stage for a second installment and I am sure a complete franchise based on the initial success but I hope that Hollywood does not choose to dish out ludicrous or silly plots to just get the cash dollar but will develop meaningful and realistic story lines that are beautiful and honorable. 92 out of 100 Paul's church was nothing more than a modest storefront. Now he presides over a congregation of thousands, with classrooms for Sunday School, a coffee shop in the lobby, and a baptismal font as big as a swimming pool. Today should be a day of celebration. But Paul is about to preach a sermon that will shake the foundations of his church's belief. An honest play about faith in America—and the trouble with changing your mind. For tickets or more information, visit SpringfieldContemporaryTheatre.org or call 417-8318001.

African American Community Organizations Directory Mark A. Dixon Bartley-Decatur Neighborhood Center 918 E. Calhoun Springfield, MO 65802 417-987-9939 www.bartley-decatur.org

Shelia Burton, Worthy Matron Missouri Jurisdiction PHA Order Of Eastern Star Greater Truth Chapter #88 P.O. Box 8804 Springfield, MO 65801 417-866-6878

Deidra England, President Ladies Civic League Provides scholarships for youth P. O. Box 8296 Springfield, MO 65801 417-887-7440

Calvin L. Allen, Exec. Director Springfield Community Center 911 E. Division St Springfield, MO 65803 417-866-4359

Sherman Avenue Project Committee, Inc. Housing Org. 1228 N. Sherman Springfield, MO 65802 417-865-1203

Cheryl Clay, President Springfield Branch N.A.A.C.P. P.O. Box 8983 Springfield, MO 65801 Meetings are every third Saturday of the month from 1:30-2:30 p.m. 417-873-6386

Anthony Pickens Prince Hall Masons Truth Lodge #151 P.O. Box 8063 Springfield, MO 65801 417-890-5180

Shelia Burton, President Lincoln Memorial Cemetery Board, Inc. P.O. Box 9282 Springfield, MO 65801 417-877-0668 Dennis Davis Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Springfield Alumni P.O. Box 6287 Springfield, MO 65801-6287 417-496-7365

Dorothy L. McClendon, Esq. (President) Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Cultured Pearls of Springfield P.O. Box 8361 Springfield, Missouri 65801 (816) 721-8946

Nora England, President Springfield Reunion Club Organizes the Annual Park Day/ Reunion Weekend 1447 N. Hampton Springfield, MO 65802 417-869-0183 Meeting every first Monday Willie Carter, Director Victory Circle Peer Support Inc 2101 W. Chestnut Expwy Springfield, MO 65802 417-894-0188 Support group for men in recovery

Samuel G. Knox Unite of SWMO, Inc. Publishes the Unite Publication; presenters of the Annual Springfield Multicultural Festival 2101 W. Chestnut Expwy. Springfield, MO 65802 Phone: 417-864-7444 unitepublication@yahoo.com www.unitenewsonline.org

If you are a part of a Springfield African American Community Organization, we want to hear from you. Please send the name of your organization, address, phone number and a contact person to Unite., P. O. Box 1745, Springfield, MO 65801

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Arts&Entertainment News

Focused Goals

“Black Panther”...Hype of a Legitimate Success still want to go and quite a few By Lyle Foster folks including yours truly plan Unite Contributing Writer to go for a second installment. Well we got the chance to The film has a strong cast in wear our dashikis and many Chadwick Boseman who does other types of regalia propela more than capable job not ling the long anticipated Black only in delivering his lines and Panther to a record breaking emotion but also in looking weekend. Many thelike a super hero we aters across the councan relate to. And of try were sold out and course that is one of the attempted to pack in as most important things many showings of the to have a super hero film that they possibly that has black skin to could to get as many inspire and serve as a fans as possible into role model for fans of their seats. Even here all ages. Michael B. Lyle Foster in Springfield most Jordan, Lupita Nyong’o, movie palaces were sold out Danai Gurira, Angela Bassett, for the first weekend and one Daniel Kaluuya and Forest could sense the excitement in Whitaker all help to round out the local atmosphere. Some a very strong cast that brings went in groups and had speenergy and presence to the big cial screenings and across the screen. country it was not unusual for Located in the mythical school and church groups to African nation of Wakanda the attend en masse. So we have leader is both ruler and Black achieved economic success for Panther and has a lot of time the Hollywood studios but did protecting the vast and special the movie make sense and was riches of this nation until the there a plot? evil villain seeks to rule the Suppose I said yes and world with the special mineral no. The film had a lot of good power of this secret nation. spots and I know many fans Not to be a spoiler alert but

the film does make a few social statements that for me created a bit of tension because I would rather the film not get political but obviously someone thought this was important. Before I forget the women from Wakanda are powerful and awesome… they are not the secret weapon but they almost are because they make quite a presence on the big screen and they for me are some of the highlights. Director Ryan Coogler will be sought after in all circles after this Marvel Studios 2018 crazy opening weekend success. He got his directing chops started with the highly acclaimed and difficult film Fruitvale Station. One of the great things about Black Panther is that it has all of the special effects largely due to the 200 million budget which translates into great special effects and some really cool CGI

effects. There are some pretty neat battle scenes and technical effects in the film that are pretty cool to watch and enjoy. One of the neat and what I think is a special aspect of the film is that although the nation featured in the film does not exist the African language in the film is real and in fact is the language isiXhosa which is one of the 11 official languages in South Africa. That is really cool don’t you think and by the way Black Panther is doing well internationally and playing to large audiences in African nations as well. It is also very important and appreciated to see the African themes throughout the film in music, scenery, costuming, language and thematic elements. Powerful and very appreciated. My only downside (and sorry folks I never want to get so continued on page 9

SGF Contemporary Theatre Presents “Ragtime” By Rick Dines Unite Contributing Writer

Springfield Contemporary Theatre's production of the Tony Award and Drama Desk Award-winning Broadway musical Ragtime concludes Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30p.m. and Sunday afternoons

at 2:00p.m. March 1-4, 2018. Based on the acclaimed novel by E.L. Doctorow, Ragtime has music by Stephen Flaherty, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and a book by Terrence McNally. It is the turn of the 20th Century in New York. An era is exploding. A century is spinning. And the people are moving in

rhythm and rhyme to the music of Ragtime. The award-winning Ragtime weaves together the story of three groups in America, represented by Coalhouse Walker Jr, a Harlem musician; Mother and her white, middle class family in New Rochelle; and Tateh, a Jewish immigrant who has come to America with

his daughter seeking a new life. It embodies everything the American musical has come to represent while it addresses the great social issues of the twentieth century, issues that we have been struggling with for over a hundred years - racism, immigration, social violence, political continued on page 9

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– areas where improvements were being made and needed to continue and Red Flags – areas that continued to escalate in spite of efforts to make improvements. Trend data from this report demonstrated poverty levels continued to rise and the level of talent and skill for the workforce was not supporting needs of local and regional businesses. To use a different approach to address the African American achievement gap and college retention, leaders in the community met with Dr. Bledsoe, Student African American Brotherhood (SAAB) CEO, to discuss the challenges. Dr. Bledsoe allowed Springfield to develop a communitywide Brother to Brother Chapter because of our demographics and poverty level. Through the relationship with SAAB, the Springfield Community was introduced to the Lumina Foundation and applied and received a grant for the third cohort of Community Partnership for Attainment (CPA). Part of the technical assistance received through this grant included an analysis of Springfield by the Brookings Institution and later in the grant period, an assessment by Strive Together and Institute for Higher Education Policy (IHEP). Brookings Institution changed how the community collected data to use disaggregated data to identify a deeper level of understanding to better focus our work. Strive Together recognized that Springfield had many great programs with very few systems to connect the programs that would enable the

community to work better together. IHEP helped the community strengthen partnerships and relationships for long-term sustainability. The knowledge gained through the CPA impacted the Springfield community in many ways that enhanced relationships, built better partnerships and to use collective impact models to hone in on specific key community issues that need to be addressed. Armed with a better way of working together to focus on specific key community issues, the community formed the Impacting Poverty Commission to focus on the causes and effects of poverty. Through this two-year collective impact model that included people in the community who would benefit from the outcomes, a Call to Action Report was produced in October 2015 with specific action items and endorsement of needs in the Springfield community that focused on five areas: Education, Financial Security, Housing, Health, Community Awareness/Civic Engagement and Transportation. Two major goals were established across the community: Reduce poverty by five percentage points and increase postsecondary attainment to 60 percent by 2025. With these two major goals, the community is developing specific objectives to meet the goals to reduce the gap that exist for African Americans and Latino/Latina residents. Prosper Springfield wants to hear your ideas on specific types of resources and services that are needed that are not currently being provided. Please email your ideas to Fpratt@cpozarks.org or call Francine Pratt at 417-888-2020 and ask to leave a message on her voicemail. This gives you an opportunity to have your voice heard in a very convenient way.

First Friday Art Walk continued from page 1

original art, music, demonstrations and performances in 28 gallery venues. First Friday Art Walk is a grassroots event inspired by the Springfield Regional Arts Council and established by downtown’s art galleries, art venues, sponsoring businesses and the arts community. The first Art Walks took place in the

late ’90s, and the Walk became a monthly event beginning in 2001. A program of the Springfield Regional Arts Council, First Friday Art Walk is dedicated to promoting fine art and economic sustainability in the Downtown Arts District. For information about how to become an Art Walk venue or sponsor, contact Communications Director Clarissa French, (417) 862-2787 ext. 25 or artwalknews@gmail.com

‘A hip joint’ is turning Rated SGF Film Festival Premiering 2 years old! Saturday, March 31 Come celebrate our birthday

on March, 16 from 7-8:30 pm. We will have a live band, food, wine, and a featured artist. We will also be offering a painting session, Bob Ross Style. Come mingle with our massage therapists and ask our doctors some health questions. Come sit in our automated Massage Chairs. We have grown a lot and we always want to give back to the community and say thank you to all of you who have made us who we are. A Hip Joint, 309 S Jefferson Ave. Springfield

March, 31 2018, 9:00 am -11:00 pm ratedsgf.com, 417-831-6200 Inspired by exceptional things found in unexpected places, Rated SGF celebrates films and artists that challenge our assumptions. Each screening seeks to create an authentic connection, blurring the boundary between storyteller and audience. Ready for an unforgettable experience? Buy your tickets early to score the best price. Event will be held at the Historic Fox Theatre.

Co-Sponsors:

March 22, 2018

DIVERSITY TALENT HUB

Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce MSU Division for Diversity and Inclusion Ozark Region Missouri Job Center Minorities in Business City of Springfield City Utilities CPO

connecting diverse students to potential employers

Come and learn more about possible paid internships or job opportunities in the Springfield area To receive an invitation, email your name, contact information, area of interest or college major with month/year of anticipated graduation to Francine Pratt, Fpratt@cpozarks.org or contact her at 417-888-2020 by March 20, 2018.

Time: 6:30-8:00 p.m. Location: The Fairbanks

(High School students are welcome to attend!)

1126 N. Broadway Avenue

BRING SEVERAL COPIES OF YOUR RESUME!

March Unite Page 7

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The BusinessSection A Directory of free or low cost Business Assistance Minorities In Business Monthly Networking Event March 6, 2018 5:30 p.m. The eFactory 405 N Jefferson Bring a friend or business partner! Everyone is invited! Light Refreshments available. 417-837-2631 Small Business Administration (SBA) www.sba.gov 417-890-8501 Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) www.score.org 417-866-8641 Small Business & Technology Development Center sbtdc.missouristate.edu 417-837-2617 1Million Cups Every Wednesday Morning 8:30 am -10:00 am SGF Art Museum 1111 E. Brookside Drive Free admission

5 Books

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5 Books Every Millennial Entrepreneur Must Read by Carolyn M. Brown for Black Enterprise Magazine Make no mistake about what the best entrepreneurs read; entrepreneurial success requires continuous investment into your own education. This is especially true for 51% of the 80 million millennials in the U.S. that currently own a business or say they want to be entrepreneurs. So, here are five books that BlackEnterprise.com considers to be must-reads for all aspiring millennial entrepreneurs. 1. The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building A Business When There Are No Easy Answers By: Ben Horowitz A venture capitalist and one of Silicon Valley’s most respected entrepreneurs, Horowitz offers essential advice on building and running a startup. He shows how to cultivate a CEO mentality, and shares the insights he’s gained developing, managing,

selling, buying, investing in, and supervising tech companies. A lifelong rap fan, he amplifies business lessons with lyrics from his favorite songs and is candid about everything, from firing friends to poaching competitors.

Minorities In Business

Monthly Networking Event March 6, 5:30 pm at Robert Plaster Free Enterprise Center/ The eFactory 405 N Jefferson Ave Guest Speakers: "Chip" Kidd, Regional Vice President, Primerica Financial Services and Don Reese, SBA Bring a friend or business partner!! For more information call: (417) 837-2631

2. Miss Jessie’s: Creating A Successful Business From Scratch, Naturally By: Miko Branch Hair stylists and curly hair experts, Miko Branch and late sister Titi, became pioneers of the natural hair movement by creating their own product line. Branch offers practical truth-telling, in addition to providing helpful business tips. This is an invaluable book of instruction for aspiring entrepreneurs. When it comes to building a multimillion-dollar business from scratch with little money at the start, Miss Jessie’s: Creating a Business From Scratch, Naturally not only shows that it can be done, but also discloses what it takes to get it done. 3. The Power Of Broke: continued on page 7

How Empty Pockets, A Tight Budget, And A Hunger For Success Can Become Your Greatest Competitive Advantage By: Daymond John This book teaches aspiring entrepreneurs how to take their biggest weaknesses and turn them into their greatest strengths. The Shark Tank investor and FUBU streetwear founder believes that starting a business from broke forces entrepreneurs to think more creatively, use resources more efficiently, connect with customers more authentically, and market ideas more imaginatively. John shows how starting a business with limited resources forces you to be true to yourself and stay laser-focused on your goals. 4. The Entrepreneur Mind: 100 Essential Beliefs, Characteristics, And Habits Of Elite Entrepreneurs By: Kevin D. Johnson Johnson identifies key

lessons entrepreneurs must learn in seven areas: strategy, education, people, finance, marketing and sales, leadership, and motivation. For each of the 100 lessons, he walks through the thinking of successful entrepreneurs, using examples from his own experience. The Entrepreneur Mind suggests thinking differently, so those possessing this mindset will look at major setbacks as opportunities; lessons to be learned on the way to ultimate success. 5. REWORK By: Jason Fried This book shows you a better, faster, easier way to succeed in business. Rework is the perfect playbook for anyone who has ever dreamed of doing it on their own. Hardcore entrepreneurs, people stuck in day jobs they hate, and artists who don’t want to starve anymore will all find this as valuable guidance. Fried’s book will show you how to be more productive, how to get exposure without breaking the bank, and tons more counterintuitive ideas.

Start Up (Free) Seminar - How to Start a Business in Missouri Springfield, MO—The Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC) at 405 N Jefferson Ave. will sponsor the Start Up -How to Start a Business in Missouri Seminar, March 22, 2018. Have you always wanted to start a business and are curious how to begin? This free seminar will cover: • What do you need to be legal

in Missouri? • Forms of organization • Where to register with the state? • Do I need a Tax ID number? • Do I need an Employer Identification Number? • Is all of that accounting paperwork really necessary? • Why and how do I keep track of sales and expenses? • Do I need to become a

Start Up

from column below bookkeeper? • Do I really need accounting software?

This seminar is free and open to the public. Registration is required. To register, go to: sbtdc.missouristate.edu or call: (417) 837-2617

Our differences make the difference. At Commerce Bank, we recognize that workplace diversity makes for a stronger company. We value, embrace and leverage the variety of perspectives that come as a result of our individual differences.

417.869.5411 commercebank.com

WF79437 Spfd Unite Diversity Ad October 2017.indd 1

9/7/2017 2:13:22 PM

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