July 2020 Volume 30/ Number 7 • Find Digital Version @ www.unitenewsonline.org •
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Continue TO Celebrate your Independence June 19 & July 4
Building Empowering Connections
African American COVID-19 Connection to Resources and Services Grant
Gloria Morris, Retired Pipkin Educator and Counselor is mourned
JUSTICE Act Introduced by Senator Tim Scott: Addresses Police Reform, Accountability and Transparency
Drury offers new redesigned evening and online programs to pursue career goals Page 7
We are ready for the opportunity to own the narrative and gain access...take the masks off! Page 12 Kimbrea Browning
The Vote - American Experience On Ozark Public Television Page 2 Daniel Ogunyemi
‘COVID-19 Community & Public Health Resource Directory See Information on PAGE 13
Working Together to Power Springfield Whether you have a material to sell or offer a great service—CU is looking for reputable vendors to help us keep our business up-and-running.
The Vote - American Experience 8 p.m. Monday, July 6 and Tuesday, July 7 On Ozarks Public Television Meet the unsung heroes of the movement and relive the fiery, dramatic and unrelenting campaign that led to passage of the 19th Amendment granting American the right to vote and ushering in the largest women expansion of voting rights in U.S. history.
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Ujima Kids Corner
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DIVERSE CHILDREN’S LITERATURE
Book of the Month
By: Alexandra Penfold Follow a group of children through a day in their school, where everyone is welcome. A school where children in patkas, hijabs, baseball caps and yarmulkes play side by side. This book lets young children know that no matter what, they have a place, they have a space, and they are welcome in their school.
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE
COVID-19 Community & Public Health Resource Directory: See PAGE 13
Tableof Contents Community
African American COVID-19 Connection to Resources and Services Grant
Page 5
Community
The Library Branches Finally Reopened On May 26 After The Long Closure
Education
Drury University offers newly redesigned evening and online programs to pursue career goals
Page 7
Meet Michelyve Petit, Speech & Language Pathologist
Page 7
Page 5
Gloria Morris, Retired Pipkin Educator and Counselor is mourned Page 6
Law Making
JUSTICE Act Introduced by Senator Tim Scott: Addresses Police Reform... Page 8
Heath & Wellness
How Current Events & Mental Fatigue Can Traumatize Your Health
Page 10
Opinion & Editorial We are ready for the opportunity ...take the masks off!
Page 12
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.” For further information, you can contact us at (417) 864-7444. Email: unitepublication@yahoo.com
Make Your Contribution Today! If you would like to make a contribution to the Unite News Publication and it’s mission, please mail your gift to Unite, P.O. Box 1745, Springfield, MO 65801 or contact our office at (417) 864-7444. “Let’s build a stronger community together.” - Samuel Knox
Managing Editor
Community: News, Events & People Unite News awarded CFO Grant for African American COVID-19 Connection to Resources & Services Project 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 $10,000 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. The plan calls for the contact of each predominantly African American church and organization by phone. Each organization will be notified about resources and services for health, hygiene products and food for people who do not have access to technology or do not feel comfortable accessing technology. This partnership recognizes that African Americans have greater disparities and health issues. These collective impact partners will focus on connecting and providing resources and services through trusted community relationships. The focus is also for African American families and their students who are living at or below the poverty level. Unite News will use its social media and print assets as a way to distribute the Unite News, NAACP, Caring Communities and Prosper Springfield campaign message. Unite will include articles important for the African American community to stay healthy and safe (e.g., why men should see the doctor, why regular check ups for diabetes, cholesterol and high blood pressure are important, and where to go for COVID-19 tests if they have symptoms, etc.). Unite will provide a free six-month subscription so information can be provided on a regular basis.
In the event churches and organizations are able to meet physically in the near future, grant partners will attend events to provide more direct access to information and capture needs. For individuals that need additional assistance, CPO Caring Communities will provide case management services for up to six months to connect individuals to local health care resources. If you missed this letter that went out in early April, and your church or organization would like assistance, please contact Brooke Ash at 417-888-2020.
African American families or individuals can sign-up for a free six month Unite News subscription now until November 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, • gloves, and or • hand sanitizer Please contact: Brooke Ash at 417-888-2020.
The Library Has Moved Their Summer Programs Online For Virtual Events The usual summer library programs that children love have been moved out of the buildings to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and moved online, with virtual events. But the fun doesn’t have to stop. Help them go online to watch the programming we have scheduled this summer. Do they love STEAM programs – science, technology, engineering, art and math? Then stop by thelibrary.org/kids at 11 a.m. each Monday to discover a new video challenge using materials you have at home. Mrs. Davis from the Library Station challenges you to a summer of fun STEAM. The next two sessions are: • July 20: What’s the Matter Challenge. Build a tsunami in a bottle to see how underwater earthquakes affect waves. • July 27: That’s How the Ball Bounces Challenge. Use chemistry to make your own bouncy ball. ••• Kids can see more STEAM programs on thelibrary.org/kids. See the complete gallery of music and song videos with their favorite librarians, from Mr. Joe from the Library Center to Miss Charity from the Schweitzer Brentwood Branch Library. ••• Lenny and Mabel, who call themselves “The Greatest Actors in the World,” will bring two classic fairy tales to life: “Cinderella” and “Jack & the Beanstalk,” in a virtual program that’s as funny online as it is in person. They’re the featured performers of Bright Star Children’s Theatre Presents: Once Upon a Time, at 3 p.m. Tuesday, July 21. It’s perfect for grades K-5. Continued on page 11
Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 5
Gloria Morris, Retired Pipkin Educator and Counselor is mourned Springfield, MO—Gloria Morris, who devoted “My philosophy is I treat every kid like they nearly half a century to the children of Pipkin are mine,” she said at the time. Middle School, died unexpectedly Thursday Morris remained at Pipkin for her entire caJune 18, 2020. reer. Upon retirement, colleagues and former She officially retired from the Middle students referred to her as a cornerstone and a School in 2016 — after 43 years as a teacher, treasure. coach and counselor — but “I know God called me here. continued to show up there. She I wanted to be a missionary,” mentored girls through a sewshe told the News-Leader in ing club until this spring, when 2016. “This is my mission field.” the pandemic hit. Gwen Marshall, equity and “It was not a job for her. It diversity specialist for Springwas truly a ministry and a callfield Public Schools, said ing,” said Josh Seaman, Pipkin Morris had a deep faith and counselor. “She lived it. She sweet disposition. They had fun breathed it.” together. Her role as an educator, “Gloria was always joyful and confidante and advocate for positive,” she said. “She was Springfield students — especialright there for anybody who Gloria Morris ly for the under-represented and needed her.” under-resourced — extended beThey worked side-by-side in the yond Pipkin’s doors. She was active in church Black History Summer Academy and estaband community groups. lished clubs to empower girls. Marshall said Since 1995, Morris also taught at the annual Morris had a gift for developing activities that Black History Summer Academy. were fun but embedded life lessons. The daughter of a preacher, she was born “It was extremely meaningful for her,” she in Kansas and raised in rural Colorado. She said. “Gloria kept working because she felt moved to Springfield in 1969 to attend Evangel there needed to be a connection there for AfriUniversity. That is where she met her husband, can-American students to advocate for them.” Louis. Morris was active at church, New Hope InHired at Pipkin in 1973, the former stuternational Ministries. She offered tutoring, set dent-athlete started her lengthy tenure as a up clubs, distributed supplies at back-to-school coach and physical education teacher. She events and coordinated with others to operate a eventually moved into the counselor role, large Vacation Bible School in the summer. working with each student who entered the Rosalyn Thomas was hired by the district building. in the mid-1970s, when there were even fewer Morris hugged students, told them “I love teachers from diverse backgrounds employed. you” and meant it but also believed in tough She said Morris, who already worked for the love. She was compassionate but did not coddistrict, was waiting for her after the new teachdle. er orientation. Four years ago, Morris told the News-LeadShe said Morris stayed upbeat, no matter er her aim was to set high expectations and how challenging the situation. bring out the best in each child. “Gloria was so positive toward students. I’d
Page 6 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News
say something and she’d say ‘Now Rosalyn, the babies need this, they need that,’” she recalled. “She never gave up on any of them.” Thomas said Morris felt a particular kinship with middle school girls. She’d encourage them to connect with local mentors and create vision boards to focus on future goals. “She’d say ‘In middle school, we can either break them or make them and I choose to make them,’” she said. “She was just an amazing woman and she’ll be missed.” Morris retired, in part, to spend more time with her husband of 46 years as well as her son, daughter, and grandchildren. Friends and colleagues said Morris, who suffered from severe allergies, was not one to complain and, despite being so open with people, was private about her health. Few, if any, knew she’d been hospitalized recently. Her death may have been a surprise for many but the outpouring of grief and love that followed did not. “The reaction was an indication of the type of person she was, the type of relationships she maintained,” Seaman said. Memorial donations may be made in her name to the Harry F. Givens Scholarship Fund. Online condolences can be made at www.klingnerfuneralhome.com. Excerpts reprinted from an article written by Claudette Riley, Springfield News-Leader, June 22, 2020 Claudette Riley is the education reporter for the Springfield News-Leader.
Drury University offers fully redesigned evening and online programs Springfield, MO—Drury University announcone-on-one advising and career planning. es the launch of Drury GO, an evolution of “Drury GO meets today’s students where the university’s respected evening and online they are and provides them a clear path to programs. Drury GO will accelerate opporreach their goals – their way,” says Kimbrea tunities for students to gain new skills, Browning, executive vice president for earn credentials and meet career goals enrollment management and operaon their own terms. tions for adult and online education. Launching this week, the newly “We are thrilled to offer a Drury eduredesigned program offers four acacation in an innovative, affordable and demic pathways in high-demand fields flexible new format at a time when so that focus on outcomes, not just majors. Kimbrea Browning many are seeking to advance or change The new name, Drury GO, stands for their careers.” “Global. Online.” – meaning students have Four Pathways the opportunity to follow their chosen path in Drury GO offers more than 40 accredited a way that works best for them, either online degrees and credentials. Rather than commitor at one of eight locations across southern ting to a specific major on Day One, incoming Missouri. students can instead choose an academic The program boasts scholarship opporpathway that meets their needs and interests. tunities for new students, credit for military The pathways are: experience and robust transfer options, in • Business, Leadership and Communication addition to an expansion of Drury’s signature • Health and Behavioral Science
• Public Service and Safety • Education Whether students are seeking a bachelor’s degree, associate degree or certificate, Drury GO can help shorten the line of sight between progress and end goals. Students have the option to start where they feel comfortable and build on their degree as they go. Checkpoints along the way provide opportunities to pivot within a pathway if interests or goals change, or if students want to earn credentials to improve job prospects. Trusted advisors and career mentors are alongside at every step. “One-on-one advising from people who really take the time to get to know you as an individual is a hallmark of Drury’s evening and online program,” Browning says. “This redesigned academic format leans into the power of those relationships, which we know is a difference-maker for our graduates.” Continued on page 11
Meet Michelyve Petit, Speech & Language Pathologist Springfield, MO— Please tell us about your socially. My older sister was a straight A background. student who set the bar for me to better apply I was born in Brooklyn, New York, the youngmyself in school. She is currently a dentist est of four siblings. My mom and dad are both while my older brother is a managing direcHaitian-American with Cuban heritage. tor for one of the largest banking instiWe moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania tutions in the world. My second oldest when I was a petite one year old. We brother is a Senior Clinical Research lived in an underserved African AmerAssociate at a large pharmaceutical ican/Latino neighborhood in North company. Philadelphia with statistically poor outcomes. We grew up in a strict Haitian Michelyve Petit Where did you attend college? household. Reading was encouraged, I went to undergraduate school at TV was discouraged (unless it was “Reading Drexel University in Philadelphia and earned Rainbow” or “Jeopardy”). Hip Hop music or a bachelor’s degree in English. Rap was not allowed. I listened to Jay-Z secretly and Mozart openly. The stringency imposed Have you ever experienced racism? on us as children made us book smart and In a literature course I had spent a great deal opened many doors although it closed some of effort on an English midterm and due to
the language I used, was accused of plagiarism. My phrasing, “ensconced in her scriptorium” was deemed unlikely to be mine. Thankfully, another professor came to my defense. On another occasion, a different professor told me my verbiage was “pompous”. Both of these instances were racial micro-aggressions. To this date, I enjoy spicing up my verbiage with the occasional esoteric term. I had considered becoming a lawyer but switched gears after witnessing all of the time constrictions. I believed such time constrictions might affect my ability to be a present wife and mother. When I shadowed an acute care speech pathologist, the science, empathy and flexibility seemed like the perfect fit for me. Following graduation I applied to a number of East Coast schools and was waitlisted or denied Continued on page 11
Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 7
JUSTICE Act Introduced in United States Senate Addresses Police Reform, Accountability and Transparency WASHINGTON – Senator Tim Scott (R-SC), Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (RKY) and Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), John Cornyn (R-TX), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), James Lankford (R-OK) and Ben Sasse (R-NE) announced the introduction of the Just and Unifying Solutions to Invigorate Communities Everywhere (JUSTICE)
Act. The legislation provides long-term solutions focused on police reform, accountability and transparency, while also promoting efforts to find solutions to systemic issues affecting people of color such as education and health disparities. “Now is the time for reform,” Senator Scott said. “The murder of George Floyd and its aftermath made clear from sea to shining sea that action must be taken to rebuild lost trust between communities of color and law enforcement. The JUSTICE Act
Expand professional connections. Build business prospects. Learn about local industries. Connect with local leaders. Identify community collaborations & resources.
August 4-5 | November 17-18 Member of Minorities in Business? Attend this two-day course at no cost! Call 417-986-2884 or email info@leadershipspringfield.org for details. COVID-19 safety guidelines will be followed. Limited spots available.
Page 8 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News
Senator Tim Scott introducing the JUSTICE Act takes smart, commonsense steps to address these issues, from ending the use of chokeholds and increasing the use of body worn cameras, to providing more resources for police departments to better train officers and make stronger hiring decisions. I want to thank Leader McConnell and the entire task force not just for their hard work on putting this bill together, but for their commitment to finding real solutions.” “I am honored to join my colleagues to introduce the JUSTICE Act, which offers solutions to help bridge the gap between law enforcement and communities by increasing training, transparency, and accountability,” said Lankford. “Hundreds of thousands of state, local, and federal law enforcement officers in Oklahoma and around the nation continue to do the right thing, the right way, daily. How-
ever, the service of great officers gets overshadowed by the actions of a few that abuse their position. Transparency, accountability and training will allow the thousands of good officers to shine and will expose the motives of those who are not providing equal justice. Legislative action is required to end the use of chokeholds and to bring more consistency under the law. Justice should not be a partisan issue. I look forward to partnering with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and with the White House as we work toward racial reconciliation and improved relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve.” “I really appreciate Senator Scott’s leadership putting together a police reform proposal that will make a difference,” stated Senator Lindsey Graham. “This Continued on page 9
JUSTICE Act
continued from page 8
proposal reinforces the need for better community policing, best practices and creating more transparency when it comes to reporting encounters with law enforcement throughout the country. I hope our Democratic colleagues will take this proposal seriously, and that all of us work together to find common ground to bring reform to policing in America.” “It is our job in Congress to listen to voices across our country and heed calls for justice. That does not mean defunding the police. The answer is to improve policing, not to defund or eliminate it. This is what the JUSTICE Act does: makes significant improvements to our nation’s law enforcement system. Law Enforcement Reform The JUSTICE Act strengthens the training methods and tactics throughout law enforcement jurisdictions, especially regarding de-escalation of force and the duty to intervene, providing law enforcement with new funding to do so, and will also end the practice of utilizing chokeholds Additionally, the bill will reform hiring practices by providing more resources to ensure the makeup of police departments more closely matches the communities they serve The JUSTICE Act also ensures when a candidate is interviewed, the department looking to hire will have access to their prior
disciplinary records Too often, after a tragic incident, we have learned the offending officer had a disciplinary past in another jurisdiction of which their current employer was unaware Accountability Studies show that when body cameras are properly used violent encounters decrease significantly The JUSTICE Act will put more body cameras on the streets, and ensure that departments are both using the cameras and storing their data properly JUSTICE also requires a report establishing best practices for the hiring, firing, suspension, and discipline of law enforcement officers Transparency Currently, only about 40 percent of police officers from jurisdictions nationwide report to the FBI after an incident where an officer has discharged his or her weapon or used force The bill will require full reporting in these two areas There is also very little data as to when, where and why no knock warrants are used, and the JUSTICE Act will require reporting in this area as well Additional Steps The JUSTICE Act will finally make lynching a federal crime It also creates two commissions to study and offer solutions to a broader range of challenges facing black men and boys, and the criminal justice system as a whole.
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Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 9
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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 spot for lunch or dinner complimentary when you order and also offers a convenient an entre. I am not a big queso drive-through if you need to fan but they have several vergrab and go. It can also be a sions of it including a mac and good date night spot and prices cheese, green chile and plain. can go up close to $10 for some Springfield, MO—Events are cident that causes physical, The guacamole (which I am of the menu items but if Santa moving rapidly every day that emotional, spiritual, or psychobecoming a fan of) is fresh and came visit you it are should not feels like we experiencing logicaltoharm. Many feeling delicious. Theare taco choices are break thethreatened, bank. Andanxious, that is one whiplash.and Daily news, or abundant they are good….. of the other reasonsthat’s that taking I am social media, and frightened whether you want chicken, beef reviewingathis spot mentally because if newspapers are extoll both or some type of fish. There is a the holidays outThose your posing us to images of andcleared physically. vegetarian option as well. I like finances it is an affordable death, protest, riots, feelings of uneasiness the fish taco and unrest, it was stuffed option. take many forms that bigotry, racism, full and very tasty. Of course It is located 2915toE. and a health crisis on may beathard explain they do have theare soft and hard steroids. These Battlefieldverbally. Road and is open Feelings of Melesha Bailey shell options. Fish choices are traumatic events that hopelessness to situaSunday through Thursday from are dramatically affecting bodies tions that are out of control; that’s also good with tilapia and ahi 11 to 9 and until 10 on Friday and minds. howSaturday. trauma is manifest. tuna. You may want to try the and Four forks!!!
Health & Wellness News
How Current Events & Mental Fatigue Can Traumatize Your Health
A traumatic event is an in-
Racism, unequal health care,
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police brutality is rearing its ugly head, and there’s no escape this time! We see it constantly, and it’s permeating deep in our souls. Those images are ingrained in our minds, and they are affecting our health. It can feel and show up as PTSD. Research has linked racism to a host of problems, including serious psychological distress, physical health problems, depression, anxiety, binge drinking, and eating disorders, according to Monica T. Williams of Psychology Today. The results can be irritability, anger, difficultly concentrating, fear, headache, nausea, withdrawal, and isolation. When you add the stress of dealing with COVID-19 makes the problems even more difficult The wave of these ongoing traumatic current events is having a profound effect on People of Color with underlying chronic health conditions such as Diabetes, Heart Disease, Arthritis, Respiratory issues, and Digestive Problems. These events are impacting our ability to manage these conditions, and the body becomes exasperated while working to process and balance a healthy lifestyle and mental fatigue. So, how do we manage these stressful situations before they cause adverse effects on our health? • Talk to someone or write in a
journal • Be gentle with yourself and work not to internalize situations that you have no control over • Find a support group or seek professional help • Give yourself a break from social media • Eat a balanced diet, exercise, stay hydrated and get plenty of rest • Decrease alcohol consumption • Maintain a positive daily routine with structured activities • Pursue hobbies like gardening, reading, taking care not to overdo it It’s common for people with signs of trauma to withdraw from friends and family or swing to the opposite of withdrawal to rage and anger. It’s important to respect their boundaries. Comfort and support can help the person overcome feelings of helplessness, grief, and despair. Trauma experts believe that face-to-face support from others is an essential factor in recovery and the ability to move forward. Take notice when you or someone you know show symptoms of being withdrawn, sullen, angry, or show signs of depression. Sometimes all that is needed is for someone to listen and show concern. Here are some tips on how to approach someone that is demonstrating prolong signs of mental trauma: Continued on page 11
Page 10 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News
Mental Fatigue
continued from page 10 1. Don’t pressure someone to talk- Be a good listener 2. Do normal activities together 3. Let them take the lead instead of you telling them what or what not to do 4. Be sure to manage your stress The world is changing fast, and the need to be consciously aware of what’s going on can leave you or someone you know feeling traumatized and mentally fatigued. Stay mindful and prayerful, and let nothing keep you down long.
Library
continued from page 5 Registration is required to attend, and accepted through July 19. Parents must email imagine@ thelibrary.org to register and provide the parent’s library card number at time of registration. The staff reply email will include important details and a link and password for the virtual events. Feel free to call 616-0563 for information about registration. ••• Adults, join us for an online presentation with Stephen Graham Jones, called “The Jordan Peele of horror literature,” at 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6. He’ll talk about his newest novel, “The Only Good Indians,” a terrifying tale of revenge, cultural identity and how the past refuses to die. Visit thelibrary.org/programs before the program for details on accessing the virtual event.
Kathleen O’Dell is community relations director of the Springfield-Greene County Library District. She can be reached at kathleeno@thelibrary.org.
Drury Online Programs continued from page 7
Additional Student Benefits A $500 scholarship is available for students who sign up for nine credit hours or more in their first semester. This scholarship is available to new, transfer and readmitted students. Drury GO has a generous transfer policy that lets students transfer in credits from other accredited institutions. Advisors can evaluate transcripts and help build an efficient plan for graduation based on courses students have already taken. Military veterans can receive credit for their experience as well. Drury GO has resources and programs designed to help service members thrive as they grow in their military career or transition to civilian life. Drury’s long tradition of providing higher education to active military, veterans and their families includes up to 60 hours of transfer credit for your military education and experience and discounted tuition rates for active duty military and military spouses. Apply Now Applications are open for summer and fall terms. Summer classes begin June 8. Fall classes begin August 24. To learn more or to apply go to www.drury.edu/go. Drury GO’s $320 per credit
hour tuition provides a personalized experience, in an all new format, at an affordable price. A cost calculator and more information about financial aid is available online or by calling a Drury GO admission counselor at (417) 8737373 or emailing go@drury.edu.
Meet Michelyve Petit
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so I worked tutoring students in Washington D.C. After a year of working, I applied to Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge and was accepted with a full scholarship! I graduated and was awarded “Outstanding Masters’ Graduate Student Award”. As I applied for jobs, a hospital here in Springfield made an offer and I have been working here for about a year. I am currently working on a COVID-19 research project with a PhD aromatherapist and an Italian Otolaryngologist in Brescia, Italy. We are working to quantify/ qualify the peculiar COVID-19 symptoms of loss of smell (anosmia) and taste (ageusia). What are your current job duties? I assess, diagnose and treat speech, language and social communication disorders, cognitive communication and swallowing
disorders in patients that present to the hospital with stroke, brain injury or degenerative disease. What hardships have you had to endure? When I was rejected from Masters’ speech pathology programs, I thought I was going to be a tutor forever. It was through God’s grace that I applied to LSU and began what has been an amazing career path. What books are you currently reading? Right now I am mostly reading COVID-19 articles, the last book I read was “Kindred” by Octavia Butler. On my list are: “Mastery” by Robert Greene , “Becoming” by Michelle Obama and “Tipping Point” by Malcolm Gladwell. What advice do you have for young people? Explore as much as you can as a youth. If you’re interested in neurosurgery, find a neurosurgeon and request to follow them. If you want to be a biochemist, do the same. Exposure is everything and you truly have the capacity to do whatever you want. Go for it, observe, ask questions . It’s true; seek and you shall find. Written by J.R. Chapell, Springfield NAACP Health Chair.
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The Irony of the Mask that people of color, specifically black Americans, faced and continue to struggle with. Here is a Springfield, MO— In December fragility tip- do NOT blame people 2019, when we were making our of color for these disproportions 2020 New Year resolutions, goals, in the system. The system has not plans, vision boards, and proclamabeen kind to people that are, well, tions, NO person’s on the planet non-white and straight to say the included overcome a global panleast. Everything from the lack demic. COVID-19 instantly became of representation in the political notoriously popular by overtaking realm to unfair housing practices media, political, and societal to mistrust in healthcare norms while simultaneously officials (see Tuskegee writing a new chapter in fuexperiment or uninsured/ ture history books. Everyone underinsured rates) to has been impacted by the overpolicing… Oh yea, pandemic as it has literally in the middle of a global forced humans to rely on Daniel Ogunyemi pandemic came another technology, unemployment, pandemic. and other unconventional ways of A man, George Floyd (#Saysurvival not common to many. HisName), was lynched. Not by a However, COVID-19 has also ennoose on a tree, but at the hands… abled typical USA traditions to exerr, uh, knee of a person that is ist- the sparring of political figures supposed to represent one of our and expert officials; the confusing, most loyal and humble professions. mixed-messages of various media For about NINE (9) minutes, a sources; untimely disruptions to detained black man was crushed all our “busy” schedules; and… under the physical oppression of a racism. cop until he called for his deceased First and foremost, can we all mother. Fragility tip #2, attempting agree (for the sake of this article) to portray Mr. Floyd as a crimthat racism is being referred to inal or any other label is gross as systemic and not individually and insensitive (& irrelevant). based? Second, understand that I This, of course, caused a major will also point out other inequities uproar that led to protests in 50 that were exposed by COVID along U.S. states and multiple countries with the effects that racism has across the globe. And may we not constantly poured out. forget the unjust killing {and no It is unfortunate that a panconvictions!!!} of Breonna Taylor demic is the culprit for America to (#SayHerName) at the hands of finally understand what people of police and the hunting of Ahmaud color, people that are in poverty or Arbery by wannabe vigilanteshomeless, people that identify as #BlackLivesMatter. In the words of LGBTQIA+, and other marginalWill Smith, “Racism is not getting ized groups have been preaching worse, it’s getting filmed.” for years- America is NOT the land Allow me to backtrack to COVof the free for everyone. EducationID-19. Social distancing, testing, al disparities were readily apparent technology, and masking became as well as the health inequalities instant remedies to dealing with by Daniel Ogunyemi Unite Contributing Writer
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the outbreak. Masking- interesting. I have heard people talk about how uncomfortable wearing masks are; how the shortage of masks put our frontline healthcare workers at risk (#NotAllHeroesWearCapes); how price gouging and empty warehouses make access impossible for some; the social ridicule for not having on a mask in public. But the mask is an interesting metaphor for those that do not readily fit in to “White man’s ‘Merica”. I confidently call it that because many people of color are still trying to figure out when America was great for them… but I digress *insert shrugs emoji* Consider this excerpt from the poem We Wear the Mask by Paul Lawrence Dunbar: “Why should the world be over-wise, In counting all our tears and sighs? Nay, let them only see us, while We wear the mask. We smile, but, O great Christ, our cries To thee from tortured souls arise. We sing, but oh the clay is vile Beneath our feet, and long the mile; But let the world dream otherwise, We wear the mask!”
There is a term that is lovingly referred to as code-switching. Now, prior to writing this, I had no clue that code-switching is a technical term that refers to language/ dialect. For people of color, this practice is survival. It is the learned (& necessary) ability to conform to the majority culture to eliminate fear and gain access- you know, an attempt to not stand out by fitting the negative stereotypes inevitably floating through the thoughts of the majority (i.e. the mask). It is very uncomfortable; it puts us at risk of losing opportunities; how
not wearing the mask threatens access to some; the social ridicule for not having on a mask in public... This is the painstaking reality that we are FINALLY coming to terms with. That history is only HIS-story and often the whitewashed delusions that minimize the current implications of earlier centuries. That racism is able to hide behind loud figures such as the KKK, “bad apples”, and remorseful comments. That phrases such as “Why do we still have to talk about that?” or “The Civil War already happened!” or “I wasn’t there then, so what can I do about it?” should cease-and-desist IMMEDIATELY. People are tired! Tired of the hashtags, tired of the videos, tired of the stories, tired of not being seen… or heard… or believed… tired of being victims, tired of being boxed in, sick and tired of being sick and tired! People are afraid! Afraid of becoming the next hashtag, afraid of the videos, afraid of the stories, afraid of not being seen… or heard… or believed… afraid of being a victim, afraid of being boxed in, afraid of being afraid. People are angry! Angry at the hashtags, angry at the videos, angry at the stories, angry at not being seen… or heard… or believed… angry at the victimization, angry at being boxed in, angry at having to be angry, STILL. Now, the masks are starting to come off. We are tired of useless, senseless, unnecessary conforming to unfair and oppressive standards. We are ready to show our full selves and be accepted. WE are ready for the opportunity to own the narrative and gain access. It is time to take the masks off!
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) will allow all households currently eligible for SNAP to receive the maximum amount for their house size for March through June to prevent Food Stamp benefits from ending during the COVID-19 pandemic. Starting July 1, 2020 Missourians will have 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
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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 is 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. 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 give driver’s real world experience to prepare them for any situation they may encounter on the 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 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.
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EDUCATION PRE-K TO 12TH GRADE & BEYOND HIGH SCHOOL Springfield Public Schools (SPS)
Springfield Public Schools has created 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
The tax filing deadline has been extended to July 15, 2020. For individuals with simple returns to file and have access to a computer, they may want to consider utilizing the following website suggested by Community Partnership of the Ozarks: www.myfreetaxes.com.
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.
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