2020 Dec Unite

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Building Empowering Connections

from the

Unite News Staff & Volunteers The Lincoln School Collection: The Two Lincoln Schools And Its Students Page 5

Building Multigenerational Wealth: Lessons from 2020 Page 8

‘Updated COVID-19 Community & Public Health Resource Directory See Information on PAGE 13

U j im a Kids Corner

Mission: Ujima uses literacy to educate, connect, and empower children and families.

Learn more: www.ujimamo.org

Kids Corner is powered by:

NEED TUTORING? Ujima Study Buddies can help. Call or email Hannah Grills at 417-319-7757 or ujimastudybuddies@gmail.com

Ujima’s Inaugural Annual Meeting December 16, 2020, 7:30pm

Parent Appreciation December 9th, 2020 6:00pm Turning Point Church 1722 N. National Ave. Diverse Children’s Literature

Book of the Month

H o l i d a y Scramble

SCAN TO BUY BOOK

1. HASSITMCR [Hint: A holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.]

2.WNE ARSYE VEE [Hint: A celebration of the last day of the year.]

3.WAZANAK [Hint: Seven days of celebration for Unity within the African American culture.]

4.HAUKNHAK [Hint: A holiday that Jews celebrate and sometimes call it Festival of lights.]

Seven Spools of Thread: A Kwanzaa Story is a picture book published in 2000 and written by Angela Shelf Medearis with illustrations by Daniel Minter. The book tells the story of seven Ashanti brothers who must learn to work together, while also demonstrating the seven principles of Kwanzaa.

1.Christmas 2.NewYearsEve 3.Kwanzaa 4.Hanukhah

Ujima’s 2020 YEAR-IN-REVIEW JANUARY – Relocated to Turning Point Church FEBRUARY- Launched Ujima Kids Corner in partnership with Unite Publication and Drury University

Designed By: Nicole Sage

MARCH-Nonprofit Excellence award-winners for Start-Up Organization of the Year APRIL-Ujima’s founder, Dr. Shurita Thomas-Tate, takes the oath-of-office for a 3-year term on the BOE for SPS MAY-launched website; and #GivingTuesdayNow raises over $2,000 with matching funds from anonymous donor for Ujima JUNE-KOLR 10 media coverage of Ujima Drive-Thru COVID-19 pivot JULY-Ujima’s Art-to-Go virtual summer experience with SRAC (40 kids!)

AUGUST-hosted a Back-to-School parent information session with Chief Equity; and Diversity Officer of SPS SEPTEMBER – awarded Greene County CARES ACT funds and Missouri College Access Network fund totaling over $20,000 for COVID-19 relief OCTOBER – awarded $3,000 from CFO (Inclusive Opportunity grant and COVID-19 relief funds) NOVEMBER - launched Ujima Study Buddies DECEMBER-Parent appreciation/annual meeting; welcomed new Ujima board member, Laurie Washington

*+

Outgoing Members New Members

Calvin Allen* Ujima Board of Directors Founding Member Lola Butcher Audrey Duncan Charlotte Hardin* Founding Member Founding Member Treasurer Courtney Cook Monica M. Horton, MPA Shelby Hahn, M.D.* Founding Member Board Chairperson Secretary Mark Dixon Founding Member

Page 2 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

Nancee Dahms-Stinson* Founding Member Dr. Shurita Thomas-Tate Founder, Vice-Chairperson Laurie Washington+ Board Member

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

COVID-19 Community & Public Health Resource Directory: See PAGE 13

Tableof Contents Community

Makaiya Brooks Central High School Student signs with the University of Memphis Women’s Basketball Team

Need an App for Your Business?

Build It Yourself Learning iOS Coding

Page 9

Page 5

Community

The Lincoln School Collection: The Two Lincoln Schools And Its Students

Page 5

Business & Wealth Springfield Public Schools: We are here for you

Page 6

Heath & Wellness

Happy & Healthy Holidays

Page 10

Building Multigenerational Wealth: Lessons form 2020

Page 8

Nature vs Nurture

by Daniel Ogunyemi,

Dr. Clement Ogunyemi Joshua Ogunyemi, and Olaolu Ogunyemi

Page 7

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 3

The Unite News Publication is published by Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc.

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The Unite. publication is a monthly newspaper published by Unite of Southwest Missouri, Inc. a 501(c)(3) non-profit community organization. Our mission is to promote a broader understanding and appreciation of the ethnically diverse talent, community resources and opportunities available in the Springfield/Greene County area. 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. Reader’s 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.”

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“Let’s build a stronger community together.”

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Managing Editor

Community: News, People & Events People In The News

Darline Mabins

John Oke-Thomas

Darline Mabins, Arvest Bank Manager is running for a 2021 City Council General Seat A. Jan Fisk seat.

John Oke-Thomas, Owner and President of Oke-Thomas and Associates was voted Chairman elect for the SGF Area Chamber of Commerce

Lincoln High School Digital Image Collection At The Library

Daniel Ogunyemi

Daniel Ogunyemi, with Burrell Behavior Center is running for 2021 School Board Seat

University Of Memphis has signed Makaiya Brooks

by Amy Johnson Marshall Unite Contributing Writer

Springfield, MO—It’s final, Makaiya Brooks, Central High School Student signs with the University of Memphis Women’s Basketball Team.

Prayer, patience, and perseverance were (are) the tools utilized by lifelong Springfield, MO resident, Makaiya Brooks in her pursuit toward the next level. Hard work is no stranger to Makaiya who has spent endless hours focusing on her basketball dreams. Whether getting in the gym prior to classes beginning, to being the last one standing after practice, or even the workouts with trainers several times a week, her dedication and determination is admirable to say the least.

Surrounded by a faith filled community of believers, Makaiya has developed a strong belief that all things are possible. With this spiritual guidance, she has been able to overcome many obstacles presented on her

R to L: Michelle Brooks, Makaiya Brooks and Michael Marshall

journey. Philippians 4:13- “I can do all things

through Christ who strengthens me”, is a favorite verse of Makaiya’s, and has served as a foundation for who and how she is.

Makaiya first picked up a basketball at the age of 4, and from that day forward, an inseparable bond was formed. The self-motivated work ethic that Makaiya possess is second to none. She has literally put thousands of hours into her skills the past 14 years. Practices, training, personal workouts, games, and tournaments are some of the contributors to her devotion

Continued on page 12

John Thomas “Be-Bop” Brown learned to play the saxophone there. Ada Fulbright taught young minds there for 55 years. Kansas City Monarchs’ Herman “Doc” Brown, Jr. graduated from there, and reminisced, “Lincoln High School was the cornerstone for every African-American that hit this town.”

Now, images of the people and stories of the Black lives that flourished at Springfield’s Lincoln Schools are together in a digital collection hosted by the Springfield-Greene County Library District. See “The Lincoln School Collection” at thelibrary.org/lochist.

“One of the charges for Local History is to help preserve the history and culture of the Ozarks,” said Brian Grubbs, manager of the library district’s Local History and Genealogy Department. “We wanted to tell a piece of the history of Springfield’s Black community through the lens of Lincoln School.”

More than a school, Lincoln served as a community center and a branch of the public library for Blacks. The library desegregated in January 1947, but the Lincoln Branch Library continued to operate until the school closed in 1955.

The collection includes photos and documents from Springfield’s history: a 1925 Boy Scouts of America Troop Charter for Troop #35 at Lincoln School; a photo of the 1922 Boy’s Glee Club; a photo of Homer Boyd in his marching band uniform outside of the school – the same Homer Boyd who rose to fame with fellow singers as The Philharmonics. There are photos of Lincoln’s basketball teams, bands and orchestras, graduating classes, beloved teachers, proms and plays.

Continued on page 12

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 5

We are here for you

by Gwen Marshall Unite Contributing Writer

important thing we want you to know as parents is that you are not alone in this struggle.

As a school district we are aware of the challenges you are facing and are here to Springfield, MO—I have received be of assistance to you. There is an a few phone calls from parents that old cliché that says “it is the squeaky are having a difficult time with their wheel that gets the oil” it is very students and remote learning. It has important that you stay in touch with been especially tough on students your student’s teachers and who also have to deal with challenges counselors. such as learning disabilities, economData has indicated that some of ic hardship, or unstable home enviour students are struggling but we ronments. Some of these students Gwen Marshall need you to make sure that you keep are struggling to thrive in a remote reaching out for help. You might need environment where they lack hands-on guidto check with your school to see if there are A+ ance, emotional support, and for some access tutors available or if there are tutoring opporto technology. tunities in your building that your student can We are excited that Springfield Public take advantage of.

Schools have begun to bring students back It is true that we are in unprecedented into the buildings but we still face the negative times, but together we can accomplish anyeffects of those that have fallen behind. One

thing we put our minds to. Just don’t give up, we realize that we are not operating under optimal conditions but we will persevere. Keep reaching out, keep inquiring and know that Springfield Public Schools principals, teachers, counselors and staff are here to serve you.

It is also important that you keep your students engaged in learning by reading books together and discussing what you have read, have open conversations with them about how they are feeling. And as Winter Break approaches let’s enjoy more family time, playing, watching a movie or exercising together. Happy Holidays to you and yours from the Office of Equity and Diversity.

ACT Test Dates 2021 Test Date February 6,2021 Deadline January 8, 2021 Late Deadline January 9-15, 2021

Black Inventor Sarah Boone is granted a US patent for a tool used every day

by Carla Benham Unite Contributing Writer Sarah Boone is one of the first Black women to be granted a US patent. The dressmaker from New Haven, Connecticut received Letters Patent No. 473,653 in April of 1892 for an improvement to the ironing board. Her wooden ironing board made it possible to press sleeves without unwanted creases. It also made it possible to iron the entire body of ladies garments leaving them wrinkle-free. Sarah’s designs influenced the current style of ironing boards as we know them today. The board that Boone designed was very narrow and curved to accommodate the sleeve size in ladies garment of that period. Not only was it reversible, but could also be produced flat rather than curved to be better suited for the sleeves of men’s coats. In addition to this, her ironing board aided in ironing curved waist seams.

Sarah Boone was born a slave in 1832 in Mississippi. At the age of 15, on November 1847 she married James Boone who also was

enslaved. Through this union eight children were born and the details about their flight from slavery were unknown. It’s assumed that one or both of them may have escaped via the Underground Railroad prior to the start of the US Civil War. In 1870, the couple took up residency in New Haven, Connecticut according to US Census data. Her husband’s occupation was noted as a bricklayer and hers was that of a dressmaker.

Her business as a dressmaker was conducted out of her residence and her three daughters participated in that profession as well. By 1876, she became a widow and enrolled in a literacy class offered by a local church. This basic education helped her with her dressmaking business and later to apply for her patent for a foldable ironing board with a padded surface. Her profession required a high level of skill in sewing, pattern-making and custom fittings. One of the most tedious

Page 6 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

aspects of the job was pressing new garments for clients or for display on mannequins. One of Sarah’s greatest challenges was pressing dresses with tiny waistlines and tight sleeves using wide wooden boards.

Because Boone endured this challenge, she felt the need to design a product that would be inexpensive, convenient and useful especially when ironing the sleeves and bodies of ladies’ garments. She proceeded to produce her own technical drawings for the US Patent Office application that she submitted July 28, 1891. The patent was granted on April 26, 1892.

Unfortunately, there has been no record found as to whether or not her invention was produced or marketed.

So it is very possible that she never benefitted from her hard work. Sarah Boone is believed to have suffered from a kidney ailment known as Bright’s Disease and died in New Haven on October 29, 1904.

Topic: Nature vs Nurture Daniel Ogunyemi, Dr. Clement Ogunyemi Joshua Ogunyemi, Olaolu Ogunyemi Unite Contributing Writers

household FIRST. As we look at point #2 - nipping sibling resentment at the bud - my “younger” sister and I had MANY spouts...I swore that she Background: We all grew up in the same was always upset with me (eye roll). As I got environment, yet have different perspecolder I began to understand that SHE was the tives--same teachings, different takes. Alyoungest for NINE YEARS and then all of a though we have encountered and sudden, this new baby had disrupted been forced to overcome her entire world. In adulthood, my adversity- from personal struggles to household is what most would call a systemic barriers- we still have hopes “non-traditional” or “blended” family. of creating the best of opportunities For the 1st 4 years of his life, it was for our children. In this blog, we will just me and my oldest son, Ethan. examine how our upbringing influFast forward, his daddy meets a ences our leadership style as fathers girl, and a few short years later, he in today’s society. is a big brother. I observed as he Daniel Ogunyemi My creation and birth (Clement) would act out and I could deduce that were a result of the perfect storm: I was the he could not even explain WHY he was acting first boy; I was gifted with two wonderful older out. My experiences with my sister taught me sisters who were 11 and 9 years old at the time, the “WHY” and how to make sure that resentand I had TWO very nurturing parents who ment did not set in and that he did not begin to have been in my corner since day 1. As such, I dislike his fresh new baby brother. With this always knew that it was my birthright to inherit in mind, I can deduce that my first two interacthe Ogunyemi throne (LOL). I can recall, oftentions with humans other than my parents (my times, my mother calling out my oldest sister big sisters), taught me how to deal with differfor “trying to be my 2nd mom”, while trying ent personalities and to ensure seamless to keep my “younger” sister from killing me. transitions within the “modern” family These two experiences granted me a wealth of dynamic. knowledge about the structure of the family, “Put some food in your mouth!” our dad even more than I even realized at the time: would sternly interrupt, as we sat around the 1. ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS look out for dinner table and one of us had said one word family ESPECIALLY your younger siblings and too much. “Putsomefoodinyourmouth,” he 2. Never allow resentment to set in between would rattle off, almost like it was one long siblings. word, anytime conversation was (let’s just say) If we look at point #1 - the nurture & protecunbecoming. I now understand as I (Joshua) tion that my oldest sister SHOWED me cresit across the table from our 5 year old son ated a protective nature in me that only grew while his mouth runs at about 1,000 words per as I became a big brother three times over. minute.

NO ONE - and I mean No one - could touch Looking back on it, Daddy (yeah, I still a hair on my little brothers’ heads. Now that call our daddy, “Daddy”) taught us a valuable I am a father of two, I am able to instill those lesson. I don’t know if he ever actually said same values & principles into my children. Our these words, but the phrase “put some food in mother used to always tell us that when things your mouth” (or whatever hilarious quote we hit the fan, when the world is in chaos, when derived from that phrase), taught us to MAKE the world turns its back on you, ALL we will YOUR WORDS COUNT-- to be thoughtful have in our corner is each other - and that’s and measured. He taught us to “think before enough! I have taught my oldest son that it is you speak, son.” and as our mom would put it, his job - his duty- to protect his baby brother “there’s a time and place for everything.” and to make sure that his baby brother feels Obviously, we were unaware of it then but the love, nurture, and protection from THIS a couple decades later, all of us echo their

words to our own children. Though I’m sure our parents oftentimes preferred we would actually shut up and eat when they said things like, “finish eating your food FIRST, then play,” these phrases surpass the literal and have become metaphorical pillars in our individual households. These incredible lessons taught us to prioritize--PUT FIRST THINGS FIRST! As I reflect on that ageless guidance, I am excited to know that I am contributing to my own children’s success as I teach them to FOCUS ON THE TASK AT HAND. Though sometimes humourous, these experiences during our adolescence greatly contributed to our ability to lead and nurture our children today.

Fathers, internalize this reverberating message, your experiences have given you everything you need to be successful! My brothers made sure that I had my share of adversity growing up (Olaolu). I was the fifth of six children, and in our family, number five just happened to be the odd ball--one and two were two peas in a pod, three and four were partners in crime, and number six was in a protected class known as “the baby.” With that in mind, I remember going to my Mom with what was probably one of 1,000 complaints about my brothers. I wanted vindication. I wanted revenge. I wanted justice! Instead, my Mom looked at me and calmly said, “if you allow people to know what buttons to push to upset you, they will always push those buttons.”

Of course at the time, I did not understand or appreciate how profound that statement was, and I definitely did not expect to be teaching my children similar lessons down the road; however, life provided me many opportunities to apply this timeless advice. Simply stated, I believe one of the keys to overcoming adversity while pursuing opportunity is to master the art of conquering conflict. As a father, we have an innate desire to protect our children; however, I implore my fellow fathers to never waste a negative experience. Use them as teachable moments.

Now I am not encouraging fathers to stand idly by, waiting to offload a lengthy lecture ripe with anecdotal phrases and clichés while their child gets pummeled, but I am encouraging my Continued on page 12

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 7

Building Multigenerational Wealth: Lessons from 2020

by Barry Simmons November 12, 2020 JPMorgan Chase Bank Advisor It’s been a tough year for many of us, no doubt. The emotional and financial toll of the pandemic, followed by a full-blown recession, hurt many U.S. families.

While we all are still grappling with the spread of COVID-19, studies already show that for Black families, many of the existing inequalities have been exacerbated due to the pandemic.

Even though it may not seem this way now, the economic disruption and the ongoing uncertainty we’ve faced this year also taught us a few valuable lessons when it comes to building multigenerational wealth.

And reflecting on those lessons today may help us be better prepared for the next time the unexpected happens.

Start talking now Not being able to build on the financial knowledge of their parents

and grandparents, many first-generation wealth builders grew up unaware of money management strategies. Today, we have made strides in acquiring wealth, plus building the knowledge base necessary for smart money management techniques.

So it’s essential that we share that knowledge, by openly talking to our family and loved ones about our finances—even if it may seem uncomfortable at first.

For instance, you can ask your parents what would they have done differently in terms of budgeting, saving, or investing. Or you could start by explaining the basic financial concepts to your children. This communication can help ensure that the financial knowledge you acquire today gets passed on to generations to come. And of course, there are almost unlimited resources available for continually educating yourself and others about building multigenerational wealth, including various financial publications, apps, or free courses.

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Page 8 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

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Review your budget and your credit In the past months, we were forced to take a long and hard look at our spending. For those of us that were able to keep jobs, we had a chance to reevaluate our spending priorities and assess what our needs are. But it shouldn’t take a pandemic to force us to reassess our budget, including any outstanding debt.

To take a fresh look, make sure you have a clear view on how much money comes in and out monthly, starting with how much debt you have. Having to pay—and especially fall behind on—high interest debt like credit cards, for instance, can have long-term implications on your financial wellness.

Already, studies show that Black households are far more likely to be burdened by credit card debt. This increases the risk of potentially missing a few payments and negatively impacting your credit, which in turn can affect what you pay for different types of insurance, or hurt your chances of qualifying for a mortgage, for instance. So try budgeting within your means and, when you can, set aside an emergency fund.

Prioritize emergency fund and automate savings Despite income gains for Black families in the U.S., their wealth is still on average about one-tenth that of white families. Most American households don’t have cash set aside to cover sudden shocks, such as job loss or emergency repairs. The prolonged impacts of the pandemic—including the health crisis, heightened unemployment, and market uncertainty—underline the importance of being ready for lengthy financial shocks.

We hope that the worst of the pandemic is behind us, but to be ready for whatever may come next, try

prioritizing the creation of an emergency fund that would cover three to six months of your expenses. Setting aside even $25-$50 of each paycheck will eventually get you to where you need to be. And in order to stay on track, try automating this process.

Once you have a solid emergency fund, keep at it: continue saving, with your retirement in mind. About 60% of white families have at least one retirement account, while just 34% of Black families do. If you have an employee-sponsored 401(k), aim to contribute at least the amount that your employer matches, if any. You can then slowly build up to contributing 15% of your annual income toward retirement. You’ll thank the power of compounding over time.

There is no way around investing Black investors have a tendency to be more risk-averse. Many may prefer saving, instead of investing, while others often prioritize other expenses—including caring for family and loved ones—and as a result may have less money to invest. But the fact remains: history has shown that the best way to build multigenerational wealth is to get invested, invest consistently, and stay invested.

And you don’t need to start big: buy $200 worth of an investment, such as an ETF or mutual fund, and watch the price movements.

Get used to the ups and down, and continue dipping your toe further.

You have to be in it—and I mean for the long-haul—to win it. And the longer you delay, the less likely you are to meet your financial goals. If you start investing at 35, instead of 25 for instance, you could end up with roughly half the amount by the time you are 65. Talking to a financial adviser can also help you properly evaluate the risks versus rewards of Continued on page 11

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After getting a crash course in SwiftUI basics, you’ll get the relevant experience you need by actually coding real apps. Learn how to create a currency converter, emoji dictionary, daily journal, and more apps that

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Correct Diagnostics Needed Walter E. Williams George Mason University

Public Schools.” In San Francisco, 70% of white students are proficient in math; for black students, it is 12% You present to a physician with -- a gap of 58%. In Washington, D.C., severe abdominal pain. He exam83% of white students scored profiines you and concludes that your cient in reading, as did only 23% of ingrown toenails are the black students -- a gap of cause of your abdominal 60%. In Philadelphia, 47% distress. He prescribes of black students scored that you soak your feet in below basic in math and warm water but that does 42% scored below basic in not bring relief to your reading. In Baltimore, 59% abdominal pain. Then he of black students scored suggests that you apply below basic in math and antibiotics to your feet.

49% in reading. In DeWalter E. Williams Still no relief. Then the phytroit, 73% of black students sician suggests that you wear sanscored below basic in math and 56% dals instead of shoes. Still no relief. in reading.

The point of this story is that your “Below basic” is the score a toenails can be treated until the cows student receives when he is unable come home, but if there is improper to demonstrate even partial mastery diagnosis, then you are still going to of knowledge and grade level skills. have your abdominal pain.

How much can racism explain this?

The former superintendent of AtTo do well in school, someone must lanta Public Schools, Meria Carstarmake a kid do his homework, get phen, last year said, “White students a good night’s rest, have breakfast are nearly 4.5 grade levels ahead and mind the teacher. If these basic Continued on page 11 of their black peers within Atlanta

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 9

Health & Wellness News Happy & Healthy Holidays sickness you, or someone you know may have experienced. You may have lost your job, suffered or witnessed extraordinary life Springfield, MO—The holidays circumstances of racial injustices are here, and with everything and a political system that has gone on this that does not favor year, I’m challenging you. I encourage you you to make up in your that in all things, to mind that no matter find thanks and find what, I’m going to be happiness this holihappy and celebrate all day season. I know, I the blessings that this understand but, there’s year has brought. That Melesha Bailey always a silver lining, doesn’t mean you won’t and my philosophy is that it can remember losing loved ones,

by Melesha Bailey Unite Contributing Writer

Targeting Communities of Color for COVID-19 Assistance Springfield, MO—Unite of Southwest Missouri, Inc has partnered with CPO Caring Communities, Springfield NAACP and Prosper Springfield to launch a COVID-19 resources and services outreach campaign. A grant was provided by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund.

The grant is being used to contact targeted community members to obtain names and mailing addresses of residents needing vital COVID-19 health information. African American families or individuals can sign-up for a free six month Unite News subscription now through December 2020, please contact (417) 864-7444 or email your: • Name • Mailing Address to unitepublication@yahoo.com Predomanant African American Churches or Organizations, you can get assistance with: • masks, Funding provided by • gloves, and or • hand sanitizer Please contact: Brooke Ash, CPO at 417-888-2020.

Page 10 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

always be worse.

We can always find something to be negative about, but the real key is to be positive, joyful, and happy despite the ups and downs we all have experienced in 2020.

Things may not look and feel like they have in times past this holiday season with the surge of the Coronavirus lurking. It may be hard to plan and execute a joyous time with family and friends when realizing that you may have to make adjustments, which may cause some anxiety and stress.

So let’s start by NOT creating undue stress, dizzying demands with unrealistic expectations to limit disappointments. We stress ourselves with shopping, cooking, decorating, cleaning, entertaining, and parties. Things will not be the same this year, so we have to go with the flow and accept the way things are THIS year.

It’s time to face reality as the holiday approaches. So what do you do? Don’t’ stress! Stress is harmful to your health and spirit.

With some practical tips, you can minimize the effects of stress and have one of the best holidays ever with some thought and careful planning.

Tip #1- Create meaningful experiences and memories. It’s important to remember that the health and safety of your family come first. Memories are what people remember. Spend time creating memories that will last forever.

Tip #2- Set guidelines and expec-

tations with the consensus of your family. That way, everyone knows what will be occurring in advance. Don’t assume; talk explicitly about everything, so everyone is on the same page eliminating any misunderstandings.

Tip #3- Make plans and stick to it.

Plan how much money you will spend, how you will execute your family gatherings, navigate your holiday shopping, meals, and entertaining. Planning helps keep the pressure down and enables you to maintain a calm, healthy mindset.

Many times the simple things are the most special. It takes precision, thought, and time to plan lasting memories. It’s not about the money spent, the decorations, or the parties. It’s about the emotions and feelings of love that will be displayed as you plan to make this holiday feel as normal as possible during this year during a pandemic.

Lastly, don’t overindulge with sugar, rich foods, and alcohol.

These substances can stress the body, lower your immune system.

You want to enjoy the holidays, but you don’t want to get sick and gain extra weight. Enjoy but with awareness.

My prayer is for you to experience a Happy and Healthy Holiday, full of love, joy, and peace.

Happy Holidays from me to you.

behavior. Presented in partnership with Early Childhood One Stop.

Call 616-0563 to register.

Multigenerational Wealth

A Great Place To Work For Great People!

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Bar Association, is brought toable Quality Housing, Continued from Page 7 Quality www.drury.edu/hr, Affordable Register byMissouri calling 883-5341. by the Springfield MetUnite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 11 Childcare, send Transportation, Job or a letter and resume to being truly inclusive.

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Resources

Library

A Great Place To Work For Great People!

Resources

Library

Minorities In Business

Letter to the Editor

Letter to the Editor

Makaiya Brooks Continued from page 5 for the game. These have all been character building, and instrumental to Makaiya’s accomplishments. The fruits of her labor speak for themselves. Makaiya finished her Junior year at Central High School as the all-time leading scorer with 1,600+ points, averaging 24.9 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.4 steals per game, scoring a 37-point game high. We anticipate a senior season with similar stats, mixed in with tricky passes, and an impressive game IQ. Perseverance is defined as: “steady persistence in a course of action, a purpose, a state, etc., especially in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement”.

And, persevere is precisely what Makaiya has elected to do. Being a Senior in 2020 is far different than it’s ever been. The challenges these young people have experienced are incomparable on many levels. A global pandemic, re-ignited racial tension, etc. have been added to the “norm”, creating a tumultuous time worldwide. During these struggles, Makaiya has been able to sustain her center, by concentrating on her target- immersing herself in

Library Continued from page 5 Materials in the collection were contributed by private individuals, the History Museum on the Square, Missouri State University’s Special Collections

her basketball and books. Being a student athlete has always been a top priority of Makaiya’s, resulting in her ability to maintain a 4.0 GPA throughout her entire academic career. She recognizes the importance of being a well-balanced individual and will do what it takes to ensure it happens.

There is a familiar saying- “It takes a village to raise a child”.

While that is true, in this case, it has taken a “team”- a team of supportive family, friends, teammates, church, coaches, and community. Makaiya is both fortunate and grateful for this support system that has encouraged and uplifted her along the way. Kudos to the hustling, humble leader-a local “she-ro” of sorts. Setting examples and instilling hope is just a sprinkling of Makaiya’s contributions amongst her peers.

Please join us in congratulations and Best Wishes to Springfield Central High School 2021 graduate, Makaiya Brooks, for signing with and becoming a part of the University of Memphis Basketball family, where she will continue her studies toward pursuing a degree in Physical Therapy. Go Tigers Go!

and University Archives, and the library district. The Library also partnered with Drury University, Greene County Archives, Minorities in Business, Springfield Public Schools and Unite. NewsOnline to help develop and guide the project.

Page 12 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

The Local History staff will continue adding more materials to the collection, Brian said. “If there are other individuals in the community that have photographs, documents or other materials they would like to share with us, we’d be glad to scan or photograph them and add to this collection to tell their story, as well.” For details, call Brian at 417-616-0544.

Kathleen O’Dell is community relations director of the Springfield-Greene County Library District. She can be reached at kathleeno@thelibrary.org.

Nature vs Nurture Continued from page 7 peers to use the natural clash of wills between two human beings to nurture your children and develop the characteristics needed to be successful in today’s society.

Applying this simple approach will help turn our hopes for our children into reality.

I (Daniel), the said “baby” find it quite comical that Olaolu considers certain aspects of his growing up adversarial and “odd”… Objectively speaking, the youngest is ALWAYS the best (i.e. King David). Nonetheless, my siblings found it necessary to “teach” me otherwise. Being the youngest, I often had a chip on my shoulder- to be the loudest, tallest, to fit in with my older siblings. In many ways, this obviously backfired. In the best of ways, though, my family found ways of cultivating that lively, rambunctious personality into the

person and father I am today.

My family has always been my biggest unconditional support system. I can recall multiple conversations of being told, “I don’t care what you do, as long as you enjoy it, make us proud, and strive to be the best.” As an adult, I continue to take pride in the Ogunyemi name with hopes of passing that pride to my son. As my reflection, it is important for me to teach Kian how to be persistent, resilient, and driven while using discernment in every situation he will find himself in. My family taught me when to be loud, but that there are more times to be more quiet than loud. As a father, I hope to continue this strategic approach in celebrating whatever Kian’s personality becomes so he can continue to make a difference in the world.

The short story for all of us is that we have a faith that drives everything we do and parents and older sisters that loved and supported us (still do) in everything we sought to accomplish. We interpreted situations very differently and have a diversity of experiences. In fact, you may think it is a full blown war whenever we get together for holidays or other occasions. Nonetheless, unconditional love persists. We have stood side-by-side for successes, failures, traumas, special moments, heartbreaks, and everything in between. Because of this, we stand before you as college graduates, spouses, mentors, leaders, advocates, friends, brothers… And most of all, good dads!

CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) COMMUNITY & PUBLIC HEALTH RESOURCE DIRECTORY PUBLIC HEALTH RESOURCES Help Ozarks

Help Ozarks is the City of Springfield’s main website to share official directions to slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). This website provides direct links to information on the latest Springfield-Greene County health updates, resources for job seekers and employers, and a pledge citizens, businesses and institutions can voluntarily take to show commitment to slowing the spread of the Coronavirus during Recovery orders. For more information visit: https://www.springfieldmo.gov/5107/Help-Ozarks

Springfield-Greene County Health Department | COVID-19 Resources

The Springfield-Greene County Health Department’s website has guidelines for good hand and respiratory hygiene habits, tips for at-risk groups that may be more affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and guidance for travel and isolation/quarantine timelines. The health department’s website also shows testing sites—Cox Virtual Health Visits and MyMercy—available in Springfield. For more information visit: https://www.springfieldmo.gov/5068/ Coronavirus or call 417-874-1211.

Cox Health Visits

Cox Healthcare System is providing free virtual visits to screen patients for COVID-19 and provide more guidance about the appropriate actions to take if they are sick with the Coronavirus. Virtual visits are online appointments that are available for people ages two years and older and include a COVID-19 Risk Assessment and if needed, a prescription referral to a pharmacy. For more information visit: https://www.coxhealth.com/services/virtualvisits/ or call 417-269-3000.

Mercy Health

Mercy Health provides virtual care options to seek medical treatment without exposing others to illness. MyMercy is a free, easy-to-use application to manage your whole family’s health online. This app allows users to access information about their health and care team 24 hours a day. For more information visit: https://www.mercy.net/patients/mymercy/ or call 417-820-2000.

Missouri Food Stamp

Pandemic Food Stamp/Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (P-SNAP) provided all households currently eligible for SNAP to receive the maximum amount for their house size for March through June 2020 to prevent Food Stamp benefits from ending during the COVID-19 pandemic. Starting July 1, 2020, Missourians are required to complete a periodic recertification process to verify the household still qualifies for Food Stamp/SNAP benefits.

For more information visit https://mydss.mo.gov/covid-food-stamp-info.

Food Resources in Springfield and Greene County

Food resources in Springfield that are available to the general public, children and older adults who are 60 years and above during COVID-19 Stay-atHome and Recovery orders can be found at the following Google Spreadsheet. The list is updated with new resources when they become available and contains the location, hours, type of food service, ways to access food services and who can access services: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1v3UBVz5i68INI3agcZLM7ULys-O3jHOKm6zwJXWqJB0/edit#gid=0

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 13

PUBLIC HEALTH RESOURCES WIC

Effective March 18, 2020, all satellite WIC locations were closed until further notice. All appointments are handled over the phone. The WIC program is housed at Jordan Valley Community Health Center and provides free services for qualifying participants such as health screenings, nutrition education and additional food packages, breastfeeding support, referrals to health care providers or social services agencies. For more information visit: https:// www.jordanvalley.org/services or call 417-864-1540.

Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS)

Most DSS offices are still closed to the public at this time, but some offices are taking in person visits by appointment only. Please visit the DSS website to see how the Family Support Division, Child Care Subsidy, MO HealthNet (Medicaid), Children’s Division and Division of Youth Services will conduct business during this time period if assistance is needed at https://dss.mo.gov/covid-19/

MO HealthNet (Medicaid)

Telehealth is available to MO HealthNet participants. There will be no copays for COVID-19 testing for MO HealthNet participants. Coverage will be extended to Missourians ages 19 to 64 who test positive for COVID-19. Requirements for prescriptions refills will make sure participants have access to essential medications. For more information visit: https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/ or call 573-751-3425.

JOB SEEKERS AND EMPLOYERS Missouri Job Center

The Missouri Job Center has reopened to the public and offers a variety of job options and job training programs during Recovery Orders to make sure individuals can get back to work stronger than ever before with events and opportunities such as: Aspire (youth program), MO Works Together, Green for Greene, Career Services, America’s Promise, SkillUP and Franklin Apprenticeship & Dislocated Worker programs. The north location job center has relocated from the Cox building to the N. W. Project, located in the on Fairbanks. For more information visit https://www.springfieldmo.gov/1007/Workforce-Development or call 417-887-4343.

Prime, Inc.

Prime, Inc. is a logistics company with a Driver Training Program that allows individuals to earn their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) while getting paid. CDL training classes start each week and gives driver’s real-world experience to prepare for any situation they may encounter on the road. Prime also offers in-house job opportunities to ensure the safety, success and reliability of operations. For more information visit https://www.primeinc.com/ or call 1-877-774-6356.

SRC Holdings

SRC Holdings is a manufacturing company that remanufactures products for major industries that allows individuals to gain real-world experience, pursue an education and avoid student debt through apprenticeship, internship and tuition reimbursement programs. Participants receive one-on-one mentorship, earn wage increases at work milestones and learn cutting edge technology practices from Ozarks Technical Community College (OTC). For more information on how to apply, students may contact their high school counselor or OTC’s Career Center. All others can visit https://www.srcholdings.com/ career-development or contact them at 417-862-4510.

File for Unemployment | Missouri Department of Labor

The Missouri Department of Labor’s website provides information on how to file or manage an unemployment claim or claim benefit eligibility. The website also features information on worker’s compensation and discrimination complaints for businesses and workers. Businesses can file unemployment for groups of employees they may have to lay off due to COVID-19. For more information visit: https://labor.mo.gov/coronavirus.

US Small Business Administration (SBA)

The US Small Business Administration website describes areas eligible for SBA disaster loans and the steps to apply for a loan. SBA can provide small businesses who have experienced substantial suffering due to COVID-19 with low-interest federal disaster loans to overcome temporary loss of revenue.

For more information visit: https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/ or call 1-800-877-8339.

Page 14 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

EDUCATION PRE-K TO 12TH GRADE & BEYOND HIGH SCHOOL Springfield Public Schools (SPS)

Springfield Public Schools (SPS) has an online resource center to help adjust to schooling from home to create an environment for your student to learn well at home. Resources include tips to schedule a routine for homeschooling children at each grade level, special education and English Language Learner (ELL) resources. For more information visit https://www.sps.org/Domain/57 or contact your child’s school.

Kahn Academy

Kahn Academy is offering free resources to parents, teachers, schools and districts to keep everyone learning. Their website offers resources such as daily schedules, weekly learning plans for students in remote learning environments. For more information visit https://keeplearning.khanacademy.org/.

Fast Track Program

Fast Track is a financial aid program from the Missouri Department of Higher Education that helps adults obtain an industry-recognized credential in high need job areas. Students who receive the Fast Track grant have any remaining college tuition and fees covered after using other state and federal aid programs. Individuals 25 years or older or who have not been enrolled in school within the last two years and are seeking to earn a bachelor’s degree are eligible to apple. Participants must earn under $40,000 per year or $80,000 filing jointly.

For more information visit https://dhewd.mo.gov/initiatives/fast_track.php.

Ozarks Technical Community College

OTC is a community college in Springfield, Missouri. Students can earn a one-year certificate, two-year Associate of Applied Science degree or Associate of Arts degree. They also have a variety of apprenticeship programs. For more information visit https://www.otc.edu/ or call 417-447-7500.

Missouri State University

MSU is a public, comprehensive university system with a mission in public affairs. Their purpose is to develop fully educated persons with a focus on ethical leadership, cultural competence and community engagement. For more information visit https://www.missouristate.edu/ or call 417-836-5000.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES Community Health Advocates | Springfield-Greene County Health Department

Community Health Advocates help individuals navigate Springfield resources and work with individuals to determine their needs and provide personalized referrals to employee assistance, affordable housing, healthcare, pregnancy and parenting services, education, disability services and childcare assistance. To make a referral visit: https://www.springfieldmo.gov/CHAreferral or call 417-874-2477.

U.S. Census 2020

The U.S. 2020 Census invitations began arriving at households March 12. For the first time, nearly everyone will be invited to respond online, by phone, or by mail. Along with the invitation, households will receive a census overview, description of language assistance in English and 12 additional languages, and a census ID number. More information about when most people will receive their invitations can be found at 2020census.gov. https://2020census.gov/en.html?utm_campaign=20200312msprts1ccpupnl&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

Tax Filing New Due Date

TThe 2019 tax filing deadline was extended to July 15, 2020 due to COVID-19. For individuals with simple returns to file, Community Partnership of the Ozarks is hosting Tax Clinics through September 30, 2020. If individuals have access to a computer, they can also use the following website suggested

by Community Partnership of the Ozarks: www.myfreetaxes.com. For more information visit https://www.cpozarks.org/financial-literacy/ or call 417-720-2000.

Prosper Springfield Website: “Get Help & Get Informed”

This website has information on current resources and services available in the Springfield/Greene County area. Click “Get Help” to find information related to almost any area of need related to education, health, housing, job/financial assistance and transportation.

Please visit: www.prosperspringfield.org.

More resources listed online at: unitenewsonline.org

• RENT OR MORTGAGE ASSISTANCE • CHILD CARE & TUTORING • EDUCATION PRE-K to 12th GRADE & BEYOND HIGH SCHOOL Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 15

Page 16 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News