2018 May Unite

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Artsfest on Walnut Street offers expanded hours Springfield, MO—Artsfest on Walnut Street, southwest Missouri's largest fine arts festival, will be held Saturday, May 5 and Sunday, May 6. The festival takes place on Historic Walnut Street with a fully programmed footprint from National Avenue to Gilardi's. This marks the 38th year for the event, which draws approximately 20,000 patrons each year. Dozens of artists featured This year, festival organizers are encouraging guests to focus on the myriad of fine art available for purchase at the festival. More than 145 artists from 22 states will be displaying, selling and competing for more than $4,000 in cash awards. Featured mediums include: wood, glass, clay, printmaking, paper, jewelry, photography, metal, painting, draw-

mance lineup is available here.

ing, fiber and mixed medium. To further incentivize festival-goers, artists will have free tote bags available for guests who spend more than 50 dollars on art at an individual booth. Returning for 2018, the Live Art Area will feature more than 10 local artists creating art throughout the festival hours Saturday and Sunday. The finished art will be available for purchase at The Creamery Arts Center throughout the month of May.

Expanded programming, hours Art sales and festival activities close at 6 p.m. on Saturday and 5 p.m. on Sunday. However, Artsfest's music festival-inspired Transland Parkway will stay open to patrons until 8 p.m. on Saturday. The space, which occupies John Q. Hammons Parkway, is sponsored by TransLand and will feature a variety of dynamic performers and food trucks. The full perfor-

Pre-sale tickets available now Admission at the gate is $5 for adults, and children 12 and under are free. For the first time this year, festival organizers will accept credit cards at the east and west Walnut Street gates. Additionally, discounted pre-sale tickets are on sale at 417Tix.com. Festival benefits Springfield Regional Arts Council Artsfest on Walnut Street (SRAC), a local arts advocacy nonprofit working to benefit artists and arts education. More information on SRAC is available here. For more information about Artsfest on Walnut Street, call 417-831-6200 or visit

May 2018 Volume 28/ Number 5 • A Monthly Publication by Unite of Southwest Missouri, Inc •

www.unitenewsonline.org

Building Empowering Connections In Our Diverse Community

Turning Point Church 8th Annual Pastoral Anniversary and Retirement May 20th

Above Photo: L to R - Samuel Knox, Monica Horton and her daugther Pastor Edward Alexander & First Lady Jackie Alexander Details on Page 2

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Washington among five inducted into the 2018 Missouri Public Affairs Hall of Fame

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

Phyllis Washington See stor y on Page 2

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Building Empowering Connections In Our Diverse Community

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Class of 2018 African American Graduating High School Seniors In Springfield See On Page 6

Photo to the Right: L to R - Samuel Knox, Magnolia Salem and M. Salem Photos by Gamble Photography

Entreprenuers Were Honored At The 8th Annual Heritage Awards Banquet Springfield, MO—Close to 150 people were in attendance at the 8th Annual Minorities In Business Heritage Award Banquet, April 12, 2018. The event was held at the Doubletree Hotel

where three entrepreneurs were honored. Monica Horton, executive director for Music Therapy of the Ozarks was presented the Young Entrepreneur Award. Music Therapy of the

Springfield Festival Cinco de Mayo May 5

Springfield, MO—Grupo Latinoamericano presents the Springfield Cinco de Mayo Festival, Saturday, May 5 at the Springfield Art Museum, 1111 Brookside Drive. The event is scheduled from 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm. There will be live music by: Mariachi Flor de Missouri, food, activities and family fun. Free Admission. Call: 417-844-9668

Ozarks is an organization designed to promote the benefits of music therapy services. Mahmoud and Magnolia Salem, owners of the Latino Market Continued on Page 2

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MIB Banquet

continued from page 1 located at 1661 East St. Louis street, were presented the Small Business of the Year Award. The Latino Market specializes in products from Mexico, Central and South America, Africa and the Middle East. “Minorities In Business provides monthly programs that share information about business opportunities and business education for entrepreneurs and area professionals. These monthly programs are open to all guests who are thinking about opening a business or individuals looking to network with business owners with a particular product or service.” said Samuel Knox, MIB Executive Director. Minorities In Business is a business association who’s mission is promoting economic development and business opportunities through advocacy, networking and capacity building for minority owned businesses and entrepreneurs. Their goal is to help connect historically underrepresented groups with the tools they need to grow, thrive and compete more effectively in today’s market place.

Phyllis Washington is among five inducted into the 2018 Missouri Public Affairs Hall of Fame Springfield, MO— Phyllis Washington was one of five inductees into the Missouri Public Affairs Hall of Fame, Friday April 13 2018 at the Bass Pro Outdoor World's White River Conference Center. The other inductees included, Peter Herschend, Jean Carnahan, General John J Pershing and Lane McConnell. Phyllis Washington believes

Turning Point Church 8th Annual Pastoral Anniversary and Retirement May 20th Springfield, MO—Turning Point Church invites the community to join them as they celebrate their 8th Pastoral Anniversary and Retirement for Pastor Edward Alexander and First Lady Jackie Alexander, May 20th, 2018, 10:45 am. The event will take place at the church located at 1722 N National Ave. The guest speaker will be Bishop Kenneth Robinson of Chosen. For more information, please call 417-866-2750.

students should be challenged. Whether it's through exposure to diverse perspectives or to academic rigor, her career has provided that challenging environment. She began as an educator in 1968 in Kansas City. After just a few short years as a teacher, she attained a role that would change the city: She was named principal of E.F. Swinney Applied Learning Magnet. These magnet schools were part of an effort to reintegrate Kansas City schools. The schools attracted students from all backgrounds – pulling students from the city and surrounding suburbs – and provided unique learning opportunities. The school tantalized families away from suburban

private schools in order to enrich the lives of students from all walks of life. Washington designed programming, built a focused team of teachers and made herself accessible to the community so that all families felt safe placing their children in her school. "What we tried to create at Swinney is what should be at every school," said Washington. She served as the principal until 1999, when an opportunity arose at the Allen Village Charter School. She now serves as the superintendent for the college-preparatory school system. Here, students receive a prestigious private school education for free. "Allen Village is my heart and soul," said Washington. "In 1999, I told my board that I would give them five years, and I am still here. My vision is not finished."

Springfield Black History Moment With the integration of the Public School System in 1955 the era of Lincoln School came to a close. As the school year of 2017-18 ends I hope you enjoy this look at the last graduating class from Lincoln High School. — 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.

City 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

Library

Prosper Springfield

At 10 a.m. Friday, May 18, at the Schweitzer Brentwood Branch for preschoolers to grade 2, join Dino O’Dell for stories, music featuring drums, harps and more. Dino will repeat his performance at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 19, at the Library Center. On Saturday, May 19, it’s Rockapalooza at the Schweitzer Brentwood Branch from 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. for infants-grade 6. It’s The Mennows in concert at 10 a.m. On Friday, June 1 from 10 a.m.-noon, tour the Railroad Historical Museum in Grant Beach Park, 1300 N. Grant Ave. For grades K-5. KY3 Ozarks Today anchor Maria Neider will provide a Storybreak at 10:30 a.m. Bring your Library card for the Mobile Library. It’s Marty Hahne’s Musical Magic Show for preschool-grade 4 at 10 a.m. Monday June 4, in the Midtown Carnegie Branch upstairs meeting room; and 2 p.m. Tuesday, June 5, Library Station Frisco Room. Check the schedule for more dates. Mystery at Camp Runnamucka with Oh My Gosh Josh, is for preschool-grade 4 at 3:30 p.m. Monday, June 4, in the Republic Branch; and 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 5, at the Library Center auditorium. At 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 13, at the Ward Downtown YMCA, 417 S. Jefferson Ave., for grades K-8 and families, storyteller Bobby Norfolk brings book characters to life in this celebration of books and reading. Kathleen O’Dell is community relations director of the Springfield-Greene County Library District. She can be reached at kathleeno@thelibrary.org.

collective-impact model but better sustainable results are achieved with holistic community input. This month Prosper Springfield celebrates one-year. In this first-year an infrastructure was developed, a strategic plan has been completed, objectives with specific tasks are in place and the review process has begun. Have the action items in the IPC started? If so, who is doing what by when? Are we identifying duplications or are dual services needed to support different community needs? What gaps exist that impact a person’s prosperity? How do we

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know we are making an impact in helping our community become more prosperous based on the action items in the Call to Action Report? Do the actions have measurable outcomes? Can we scale? Do they have long-term sustainability? These questions lay the framework for year-two of Prosper Springfield. On May 22, 2018, Prosper Springfield will hold a breakfast meeting at 7:30 A.M. to share information about the work of the initiative and what the community can expect to see in year two. For more information about the Prosper Springfield Breakfast, please feel free to contact Francine Pratt at Fpratt@cpozarks.org.

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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

Senior Social Series Ongoing at the Library Springfield, MO—Adults age 60 and older are invited to take some time to relax and socialize with others at a Senior Social Wednesday, May 23, at the Midtown Carnegie Branch Library. It’s the third in a series of socials cosponsored by SeniorAge Area Agency on Aging. It’s a come-and-go event from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., with an optional lunch and program from noon-1 p.m. From 11 a.m.-2 p.m., enjoy refreshments while you browse books, newspapers and magazines, play board games, get computer help from library staff and enjoy breakout sessions. From noon-1 p.m., take part in a lunch program, Healthy Living for Seniors, provided by SeniorAge Area Agency on Aging and SeniorAge Choice Presenters. Registration required; seating is limited. A $3.50 donation to SeniorAge is encouraged. Call 417-862-0135

to register. The lunch program is Nature Crafts. Create simple nature crafts including terrariums and rock art for your home or a gift. Registration starts May 23. From 1-2 p.m., relive the stories of yesteryear as you listen to an Old Time Radio Hour, work on a jigsaw puzzle or craft, or relax and listen. Offered in cooperation with SeniorAge Area Agency on Aging and the Library’s Stories for Life program.

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

The BusinessSection A Directory of free or low cost Business Assistance Minorities In Business (The eFactory) Free Enterprise Center 405 North Jefferson Ave. Suite 1040J Springfield, Missouri 65806 Phone: (417) 837-2631 www.sgfmib.com Small Business Administration (SBA) www.sba.gov 417-890-8501 Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) SW MO SCORE www.swmissouri.score.org 417-986-4730 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

Minorities In Business

Monthly Networking Event Tuesday, May 1, 5:30 pm at Robert Plaster Free Enterprise Center/ The eFactory 405 N Jefferson Ave Guest Speakers: Amy Susan is the Director of Communications with Missouri Enterprise and Sylvester Hagan, financial advisor, Northwest Mutual Bring a friend or business partner!! For more information call: (417) 837-2631

Should I Form an LLC for my Business? Sativa Boatman-Sloan, Attorney at Law Unite Contributing Writers

Springfield, MO—Perhaps the most frequently asked questions I get by business owners are “Should I form a Limited Liability Company (LLC)? What are the advantages if I did? Should I wait until my business grows to a certain level?” You may have started your small business under your own individual name and filed a Fictitious Name Registration for your business name with the Missouri Secretary of State’s Office (also known as a DBA). This has not technically formed a separate business entity. You are just operating as yourself from a legal perspective. The biggest drawback to operating as a DBA is that there is no distinction between you and your business. Simply put, if you are sued in the course of your operations, you stand to lose your personal as well as your business assets.

are easier to maintain, they have The most popular feature of the less paperwork requirements LLC is your personal protection and usually do not incur as many from your business liabilities. fees and expenses over time. With an LLC in place, a lawsuit This is one of the key reasons against your business may still that I advise clients to consider be able to clean out your busiforming an LLC at the initial ness assets but likely won’t cost stages of starting their new busiyou your family home. ness. You shouldn’t wait until By not separating your you are a certain business into a legal entity, you are the The biggest draw- size, have a certain back to operating as amount of revenue, only one that gets a DBA is that there is or begin hiring emsued if there is a no distinction ployees. Don’t think business dispute between you and you are too small to with a customer/cliyour business. take this important ent. If you were to step. lose a law suit, that LLCs can be formed with makes certain assets owned by more than one owner and have the losing party (you) able to be the operational flexibility of a collected against by the winning partnership. If this option is party. Having a true business chosen, I can’t stress enough entity can often shield personal the importance of consulting an assets and only risk those assets attorney to draw up an operatowned by the business itself. ing agreement. Few people go LLCs are similar to corporainto business expecting things tions in that they offer certain to go awry, however it is good liability protections to the ownbusiness practice to have strong legal agreements in place beers. However, LLCs have fewer tween business owners from the corporate formalities and greatbeginning. er tax flexibility. Because they

Spotify Looking For Female Podcasters Of Color by Sequoia Blodgett and Lisa Fraser, Black Enterprise Magazine With successful podcasts going mainstream like 2 Dope Queens, a show that was recently picked up by HBO, Spotify sees a clear market opportunity when it comes to this new space for content creation. As more black-hosted podcasts have been hitting the scene, from the ratings and reviews, they’re not going

anywhere anytime soon. So now is your chance to catch up on these smart and insightful, and at times, hilarious episodes. If you haven’t yet given podcasts a try, chances are you’re missing out on some valuable information presented in an efficient and entertaining way. In recent years, this medium of information intake has taken off. According to The Neiman Journalism Lab, podcasting has 57 million monthly U.S. listeners in 2017, up 23% year over year.

Whether you’re looking for a serious hour of learning money tips, seeking perspectives on politics, or a lighthearted escape offering good laughs or lifestyle tips, these podcasts are well worth lending an ear and subscribing to.

Community News

The Library Rocks! Summer Reading Program At The Library by Kathleen O’Dell, Springfield-Greene County Library District Libraries Rock! Is the theme of the Summer Reading Program, and we’re going to live up to our reputation with lots of high-energy entertainment and gift incentives to get kids, teens and Kathleen O'Dell adults reading this summer. The program kicks off on Friday, May 10, when parents of tiny tots and kids; teens and adults can log onto thelibrary. org/librariesrock to enroll in the free program, log reading minutes and be entered into drawings for great prizes. Tots, kids and teens can earn a free book, Fresh Start Fine Waiver Card and a Summer Youth Passport with offers for free treats and admission to pools and other sites. Adults can be entered into drawings for cool prizes through Aug. 4, when the program ends. Here’s a sample of the programs – there are too many to mention! See the full schedule, and a listing of the kickoff parties, in Bookends or at thelibrary.org/librariesrock. continued on page 11

4 6 8 10

Black History Summer Academy by Gwen Marshall, SPS

Photo Gallery of the African American Graduating Class of 2018 Lifestyle & Entertainment News

Movie Review: “Acrimony” by Lyle Foster

UNITE. Volume 28, Number 5 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 Erin Gamble

Business

Should I form an LLC? by Sativa Boatman-Sloan

VOLUNTEERS Tyra Knox Laura Clark

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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.

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 CommunityNews

Movie Column Acriomony continued from page 8

Preparing to goSummer Back-To-School after the Winterin Break Black History Academy Coming June

mode and might be just the riculum willThese motivate youth thing youthat need. skills will Unite Contributing Writer to excel the“pack upcoming school help cureinthe your backSpringfield, MO—The Black year, while learning more about pack, back to school, post-holFor Springfield Public School History Summer their African-American iday blues” and make the rest students, January means returnAcademy is a weekheritage. Thisyear yearathe of their school ing to school after long learning event theme is “The Dream breeze. winter break. Your designed to be inspire Unplug andLater: Get those ZZZs 50 Years Where student may excited for kids to pride and awareness DoIt’s Weeasy Go from Here?” to get back to school, get in the habit of stay-of of theup global In acknowledgement catch with contriall their ing late. This habitsof butionsand of Africantheup 50th Anniversary friends start new can the first of week Americans. We have classes Or it could fill themake assassination Dr. Gwen Marshall back to school challengbeen with fortunate to and them anxiety Martin Luther King Jr., ing,will even for thethe most gloom. may even gather You some of the best and Gwen Marshall each class discuss conmotivated student. Before understand feelings, brightest intheir our area to serve as tributions of Dr. King, his legacy sending student to especially if school wasn’t a posteachers providing a quality curand howyour we can help back perpetuate school cut back on television itive experience for you. and device time and get back to Dawn Christiana, a veteran a reasonable bedtime. elementary teacher, provides Remember Breakfast some helpful advice for getting Healthy, filling breakfasts your student back into study by Gwen Marshall By of Gwen Marshall SPS Office Equity & Access

are one of the most important his message of peace, love factors in a child’s ability to and justice all people. focus infor class. If they arrive at The academy school hungry,will theytake willplace likely Monday, June through Try be sluggish and11distracted. Friday, June 15, 2018 6:00 pm to encourage nutritional break-8:30 pm nightly. Thestudent’s doors open fast choices. If your breakfast consists sugary at 5:30 pm. There of will be classes cereal or doughnuts they may for children ages kindergarten experience an energy decline an -Adult Monday -Thursday. There hour into the day. A nutritious will be an Ariya Celebration and breakfast canBanquet be simple Juneteenth on and Friday. filling, such as oatmeal or toast All classes and banquet will take with butter. Temple placepeanut at Deliverance Get Organized2101 W Chestnut Ministries, Take inventory of your Expwy. child’s school supplies. Does he need refills on paper or pencils? Is their binder exploding with old papers or the backpack full of junk? Be sure to make sure that your child returns to school with pencils sharpened and notebook organized. Their teacher will thank you! Read… Not just with your child but get back into the habit of scanning the notes that come home from school. Take the time each day to check for letters, flyer, permission slips or conference schedules. Check In You may have had a parent-teacher conference just before the holiday season. If not, take a moment this month to check in with the teacher about your child’s progress, especially if you have concerns. It is still early enough in the year to work on your student's behavior or skills that most are keeping them nation’s awe-inspiring from achieving full potenyoung peopletheir on their path tial. If you are confident, your to great futures and encourchild is doing well a quick email ages all kids to lead, succeed to check with the teacher to see and inspire. As the Missouri if there is anything you need

to know or can do at home that To register online, go to: will help keep the lines of comhttps://tinyurl.com/2018BHSA munication open. Registration will be open from Back to Homework Just 1like at the1,start ofFor the March to June 2018. year, child willcontact have toGwen get moreyour information, back into 417-693-5753. the habit of regular Marshall homework. So will you. Decide if what you were doing in the fall was the best schedule for fitting in homework, and reconfigure it if necessary. The more often you can make yourself available to help your child, the Call: (417) 864-7444 better. Between winter and spring break teachers expect students to make a great deal of progress in learning: which means that each student needs to be ready to get back into their routine quickly and work harder than they did before break. So, on your Mark, Get Set Ready, GO into a product New Year! Magazine, San Diego Family. "Prepare Your Child to Go Backto-school After Winter Break." N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Dec. 2016. January is also a time for families to pause and reflect on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Springfield Public Schools would like to encourage parents and students to spend the day in service to others. We are looking forward to seeing you at the Martin Luther King Jr. March and Celebration on January 16, 2017. Student contest winners of the elementary and high school art contest and the middle school Martin Luther King, Contest will serve asJr.anEssay ambassador will receive their for all teensawards in thefor state, outstanding work at the Gilloiz will receive a $5,000 college Theater following the MLK scholarship from Boys & Parade. After the rally the Girls Clubs of America, a continued on page 5 continued from page 5

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Exceptional Teen Named Missouri Youth Of The Year

Jaydun Sydnor set to receive college scholarship and vie for regional title this summer Springfield, MO – Selected among nine outstanding youth, Jaydun has been named the Missouri Youth of the Year by Boys & Girls

Clubs of America. The Youth of the Year title is a prestigious honor bestowed upon an exemplary young person in recognition of leadership, service, academic excellence and dedication to live a healthy lifestyle. Now in its 71st year, the Youth of the Year program honors our

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continued from page 8 significance for me since the Let thefor guilty beware. setting the film is Langley Air Force base which is just a few miles from where I grew up. The timefrom is right continued pagebefore 8 the famous Mercury-Atlas 6 mission 1962 andaiscool about city andinpresents inadustrial math genius type atmosphere that named Katherine is fairly popular now with the Johnson who had cool crowd of hipsters and an important role millennials. Family style seatin calculating ing at long tables and picnic flight trajectories tables, concrete floors, cool for NASA. The light two fixture and a friendly other women invitinginbar profiled themake for a welcoming ambiance and invites film also had patrons toroles stay. significant Located one being theat 1451 East Cherry first blackStreet femaleit has a small parking and lot in front and there engineer the is street parking on Cherry other leading and the neighboring side black women in Universal Pictures 2016 the West Area streets. I went recently on a computers division. The women rainy Saturday night and you are played by some easily recogknow as a brother I have to nizable personcurls watch women out for in mythe natural of Taraji P. Henson, Octavia so I tried to park as close as Spencer Janelle I could.and The lot inMonae. front was Their acting ability can bringa full and I was able to find any to life the reality spotstory across theand street and that it really happened hopped and skipped simply inside makes it even more powerful. as fast as I could. The neighThe film doesn’t hide from borhood tap room hails back the racial and gender climate of to the era when cities had the day and with the lead charthe bar on the corner and acters being black and female locals could walk to the bar in a male dominated space race and then head home. We can and engineering field one can still see the remnants of that imagine the day to day challengin the neighborhoods of St. es that they face. The film gives Louis, Milwaukee andofChicaus a good idea of a few the go. And the very energetic things that they faced and the

Beer Company

and enthusiastic neighbors certainly hope to make this popular new place just that. Restaurant The breweryColumn opened on continued fromapage April 14 with soft 8opening before that and the place has much too early to find out but I been packed every weekend have been told by very reliable including the outdoor patio sources that the margaritas area which is covered by a are nice and well worth a try!

small victories they achieved. In It’sways goneeach fromstory the big screen some of victory but you may enjoy it on the little over discrimination is important screen in is your home. 89 out of but there a tinge of resent100 ment too as we know too well that 1962 still meets 2017. The chemistry and support between tarp and consists of picnic the ladies the way they tables onand a concrete slab. encourage other Believe it each or not the works owners very well and in many ways Jen and Curtis want the place is thefriendly glue thatand to be very family the film have done anholds excellent job together. of engaging with the neighKevin Costner bors and neighborhood. The plays roleand of brewery does live the music supervisor and the night I was there two as usual plays his young men were playing part in an inspirthe guitar and singing their ing manner. hearts out. The film is in The reviews so far have limited release been very positive and as I on Christmas day mentioned the brewery does and gets to all of small batchesthe sonation choices right rotate and they seek be after the to new innovative and also brew what year. I am hoping they describethat as aseeing Colorado these style. sisters work their magic in mathCanwill I share a secret …..the ematics inspire some young night that I wastothere theengimen and women become first beer that caught eye neers and scientists and my wildly was actually a watermelon succeed in technology as well. The real message flavor……and whileofI the lovefilm might be one for society watermelon youour can apprestill and that is whendilemma you are I ciate the obvious trying to get a man inlike space was in. It seemed I was you don’t have time and room the only pecan brown person for to get in your in prejudice the packed place and Iway. just Hopefully we will learn that couldn’t bring myself to order about everything elseNext in lifetime as watermelon beer. well. I’m going to bring a bud with to support these mePlease and iftry they still have it I incredible films and let me will let him order it and Iknow will what you think! sip and drink at the table. Fences…..93 out of 100 How’s that? Hidden Figures 92 out of 100

Hey, it’s getting warm and this is the perfect place to cool off inside or out with deAnd consistent with theSpringcuisine licious fresh ale from there is an abundance of tequila field newest brew house in as well so if that is your drink the historic Roundtree neighor that is what you want to try borhood. in the new year you are now Just in time for summer 14 informed. Oh and if you just cups! want to sound like you are get-

ting your drink on they have a pineapple pico Spanish fried rice…delicious. How’s that for a margarita iced tea ….shhhhh… mouthful? There is a lot on the it’s non-alcoholic. And yes regumenu and it will take a few visits lar and sweet tea to adequately sample and enjoy. Okay let’s get to the food My lunch mate thoroughly they do have very clear inforenjoyed his food and he is a lot mation for anyone who needs to more adventurous than me and eat gluten free which is appregave everything two thumbs up. ciated. Chips and salsa which Great American Taco makes are excellent by the way are a great lunch or dinner Some arewhen wonderful. Some… well, spot not for so much. complimentary you order and also offers a But whatever challenge an entre. I am not a big queso you’re facing, if it convenient drive-through if you need to involves money, fan but they have severalwe’d ver- like to help. We want to grab and go. It can also be a sions get of it to including a mac andwhat’s important in your know you and good date night spot and prices cheese, green and plain. life. Thenchile we’ll help you withcan real solutions golife up close to $10 for some The guacamole (which am click or come by. and advice. JustIcall, of the menu items but if Santa becoming a fan of) is fresh and came to visit you it should not delicious. The taco choices are break the bank. And that is one abundant and they are good….. of the other reasons that I am whether you want chicken, beef reviewing this spot because if or some type of fish. There is a the holidays cleared out your vegetarian option as well. I like finances it is an affordable the fish taco and it was stuffed 417.869.5411 option. full and very tasty. Of course commercebank.com It is located at 2915 E. they do have the soft and hard Battlefield Road and is open shell options. Fish choices are Sunday through Thursday from also good with tilapia and ahi 11 to 9 and until 10 on Friday tuna. You may want to try the and Saturday. Four forks!!!

Life is full of wonderful challenges.

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Exceptional Teen continued from page 4

Movie Review: “Acrimony” Now I don’t want to get anyone mad with me but please be aware that the highly talented Ms. Henson is not in all of the How is everyone doing now movie in person. A considerthat spring is here and yes there able portion of the film features are some blockbusters coming her in a voiceover and she is down the pike including the portrayed in a younger self by new Avengers with our new the same talented actress that hero Black Panther……but portrays her as a teenmore about that next ager in Empire Ajiona month! Alexus who does an Ok….so opening this admirable job. month’s review all I But it is the plot that can say is Tyler Perry, has some asking what Tyler Perry…after was Taraji thinking and watching the movie why does Mr. Perry Acrimony with Taraji hate the brothers so P. Henson and trying Lyle Foster much or at least seem to wonder if there is a to? Playing the part of Melinda purpose with this movie or just Ms. Henson plays the part of purely entertainment. a young woman who married One thing that did make her college crush and by all sense is Taraji in a much publipractical accounts seemed cized article about her emphatto have devoted her every ically states that she is in love waking moment to keeping with the craft of acting and is him happy and helping him willing to do a wide variety of to follow his dreams. But as acting genres as long as she adults we know that fairy tales gets to pursue her love of peronly happen in the movies and forming. Perhaps that might childhood books so we get to make sense why Taraji can go watch her now husband seem from Hidden Figures to Proud to be a fairly slothful brother Mary to now the steamy and that takes advantage of her in dramatic Acrimony. This is the every way. And in Melinda’s third time that she has worked mind she has given her best with Tyler Perry. By Lyle Foster Unite Contributing Writer

years and really her life to love this man and the goodness of life has passed her by at least in the movie. This is where I make my confession ….I am a Taraji Henson fan because who doesn’t like and admire Cookie from Empire…… right? And don’t get me wrong Taraji’s narration and her on scene work in this film is good and she can play the part. But her two sisters in the film and again the weak men (wassup with that Tyler?) who play her husbands had me screaming in my seat. The sisters were Lionsgate 2018 real, family first and we can all think of real life folks who are just like them and they were real and hilarious and yes believable. But now back to poor Melinda and why the film is called Acrimony and yes it’s ok to look up the word if you are not sure what it means even though they show it on the

screen complete with definition. She is beside herself believing that her husband is not treating her right or fairly and takes the same energy that she gave to supporting him to …..well, you have to see it for yourself. If you are the “Fatal Attraction” type of movie goer well you may want to see the black and 2018 version of it. I was further put off when we learn that Ms. Taraji filmed her part in five days but that goes into something else about Mr. Perry’s films of late and that is for another time. The film certainly made back what it cost to make and then some and while some have criticized the quality of the film from a script and delivery standpoint it does a decent job of entertaining. Of course it is not a blockbuster but it does accomplish its purpose to show what a scorned lover will do. continued on page 9

Restaurant Review: Tie and Timber Beer Company By Lyle Foster Unite Contributing Writer

Well, I know many of our readers are not deep into the brewery scene but we have to admit and we want you to stay on top of the fast and emerging scene in our city on all fronts. The brewery craze is on fire and

despite our conservative and evangelical roots something is a brewing in Springpatch. At least one of our city council members is proposing an “Ale Trail” in this Queen City of the Ozarks. Can you imagine that? Well stay tuned. Now I know this is not quite what we describe as a restaurant

but you can bring food from nearby restaurants and munch while your drink. And I am sure for the new owners of this business that allows them to focus on the brew which is what their customers are coming for. In case you haven’t noticed the Cherry and Pickwick area is still going strong and with some

recent additions to the area it has become a cool quirky little destination as well as a great neighborhood food and drink scene. The neighborhood brewery that describes itself as a small craft brewery has brought life to an old lumber yard that was tied to the railroad history of our continued on page 9

$1,000 college scholarship from the Boys & Girls Clubs Missouri Area Council, and will go on to vie for the regional Youth of the Year and ultimately the national title. Previously as the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield’s Youth of the Year, Jaydun earned a $16,000 college scholarship provided by the Club’s auxillary group, known as Partners in Education. Jaydun is a positive leader with many goals. The 17-yearold Henderson Unit member attends Hillcrest High School where he played basketball and football while maintaining a 3.0 GPA. Jaydun has been a member of the Club since he was six years old. At the Club he is involved in a teen group dedicated to leadership and community service, known as Keystone Club, and is a mentor to many of the younger members. In the future, Jaydun would like to be a Sports Coordinator at a Boys & Girls Club. Jaydun will be attending the University of Central Missouri in the fall. He credits the staff of the Boys & Girls Club for keeping him on the path to success and never giving up on him when he has gone through hard times in his life. Jaydun supports himself and works approximately 30 hours per week. “Jaydun and all Youth of the Year nominees are living proof that Boys & Girls Clubs across the country are inspiring and enabling young people to achieve great futures,” said Jim Clark, president and CEO, BGCA. “Being named Youth of the Year is a lifelong honor. As the Missouri Youth of the Year, Jaydun will serve as a spokes-

person for our young people, sharing his inspiring story and leading the way to transform communities for the better.” Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s National Youth of the Year recognition program is presented by Disney, who has supported the youth advocacy organization for more than 50 years, empowering young people to reach their full potential and providing youth with access to the tools they need to build the great futures they imagine. Toyota, the Signature Sponsor of Youth of the

Year, is dedicated to inspiring the next generations of engineers, thinkers and leaders who will help drive the American economy. On July 17, Jaydun will join 11 other state winners to vie for the Midwest regional title. If named the regional winner, he will be awarded an additional $10,000 college scholarship, renewable for four years up to $40,000. Six youth, including five regional winners and a military youth winner, will advance to Washington, D.C. in

September 2018, to compete for the title of Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s National Youth of the Year. The National Youth of the Year will receive an additional scholarship of $25,000, renewable for four years up to $100,000 and will have the opportunity to meet with the President of the United States in the White House. For more information about the Youth of the Year program, visit www.youthoftheyear.org.

Prosper Springfield – Do You Know Why This Initiative Exists? Francine Pratt Unite Contributing Writers

of the recommendations in the Call to Action Report to make sure the IPC followed through Prosperity. What is it? If you on the recommendations. It was don’t have it, how can you get it? determined that a better If you have it, how can name for the initiative you help others proswas Prosper Springfield. per? Questions about The entire Springfield prosperity and how to community should be achieve it aren’t new. able to prosper based For a number of years, on what prosperity finding the answers means to each individuhave been a focus for Francine Pratt al who calls Springfield the City of Springfield, the home. Community Partnership of the Second, in March 2017, Ozarks, the United Way of the the community hired Francine Ozarks, and literally hundreds of other local businesses, organizations, nonprofits, charities, and faith-based organizations. How does one start to address a community-wide concern? First, the Impacting Poverty Commission was formed to understand the causes and effects of poverty. After two years of learning more about the needs of our community, the IPC produced a Call to Action Report in October 2015 that also aligns with the Community Focus Report. In the Call to Action Report, the IPC recommended an initiative entitled, Together Springfield to provide oversight

Pratt as the Prosper Springfield Director. Initially, she worked on a part-time basis reading and learning about the activities that had taken place from the beginning of the IPC (She was also a member of the IPC). In April, she started working full-time and used a collective-impact model to create the Prosper Springfield Advisory Council with representatives from the IPC, and private, public and social sectors. The process takes longer using a collec-

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Central High School

Hillcrest High School

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Central High School

Congratulations Senior Class of 2018

Hillcrest High School photos continued

Faithfulness Blackmon

Carnetta Carvin

Amber Dennis

Alexis Daniels

Olivia Dowdy

Leah Dye

David Ehie

Khadijah Nicholas

Roberto Galvin

By Gwen Marshall Unite Contributing Writer

To the Springfield Public Schools 2018 Graduates: On behalf of the office of Equity and Access we would like to commend the parents and congratulate each graduate for your hard work and perseverance. You did it!Â Graduation is a time to commemorate your achieveGwen Marshall ments, anticipate your future opportunities, and embrace a world of infinite possibilities. Remember to always follow your dreams. Congratulations!

Devin Sales

Commencement Information:

Leah Dye

Kickapoo High School

Commencements for the 2016-2017 will be held at JQH Arena on the MSU Campus.

Kickapoo High School Duane Boyer Hardin

Tristen Hicks

Desiree Johnson

Derek Hughes

Gabrielle Mills

Fammy Mohamed

Dante Moore

For Hillcrest High School 7:00 p.m.

Dominique Phanelson Amie Carey

Aliya Askew

Autumn Rangel

Scarlet Price

Glendale High School Rachel Walker

Lavon Smith

Tasia Cowens

Thursday, May 11, 2017 For Glendale High School, 5:00 p.m.

Diavion Mayhew

Denisha Mortimore

Eugene Keiber

Jordan Sanders

Jared Simmons

Garry Egessah

Parkview High School

For Parkview High School, 9:00 p.m. Friday, May 12, 2017 For Central High School 5:30 p.m. For Kickapoo High School, 8:30 p.m.

Tyrus Townsend

Glendale High School

Kahleigha Harris

Kwentin MyersSkillens

Luis Santiago

Mariah Nelson

Makayla WInfield

Noah Smith

Shamari Jones

Robert Calloway

Sunday, May 7, 2017 Baccalaureate will be held at each high school location. May 22, 2017 Last Day of School

Abrina Wells

Anterious Simms

Brendan Haley

Anthony Collette

Darius Broocks

Elizabeth Quinn

Farrah Soppo

Sophi DulanJones

Ian White

Taya Hall

Tahlia Simmons

Trevon Brown

Lloyd Williams

Tyra Bradshaw

Trevor Smith

Parkview High School Ivry Bratten

Hillcrest High School Jacob Goodwin

Jeremy Almeida

Myles Smith

Siceley Wilson

Hillcrest High School

Trevon Ausler

Andrea Bailey

Jacobany Dye

Seth Gilleyen

Malachi Beckham

Trevon Hale

Chia Brooks

Paul Clark

Brandon Hall

Robert Holman

Shahn Clark

David Mahr

Ibrahim Ayuba

Charles Clay

Roderick Mammah

Hezekiah Duke

Kaitlyn Maxwell

Taiteyonna Grady

Sydni Porter

Jaytiara Benton

Jahana Hamilton

Bailey Ratcliff

Brittany Brazile

Jesse Brown

Nathaniel Coker

Damon Daily

Breanna Davis

Tyreece Downey

Marissa Frank

Camrin Glenn

Brady Hill

Tre King

James Lee

Austin Little

Chester Loveall

Alexis McCann

Jhi-Reice McNeal

Wanjigi Njoroge

Deja Richardson

Mayo Shaw

Kayden Shelton

Makayla Simpson

Destiny Starnes

Tyanna Stiles

Njenga Ta'Sabien

Marcus Walton

Hashim White