2022 February Unite

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SBJ interviews Taj Suleyman

P03

Artists Empowerment Collective Annual Showcase

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Drury’s Pool Gallery Black History Month Exhibition

February 2022 | Volume 32 | No 2 | www.unitenewsonline.org

Free | Take One

Research, Rethink & Reimagine

Workshops designed to help teachers implement African American studies through Place-Based Education

Akbar Cook Sr., Principal

See Story On Page 8

Passing the Torch: Q&A with John Oke-Thomas, Architect

The Milly Project has received two film awards

Renowned Tuskegee Airman Charles McGee dies at 102

Oke-Thomas steps into the role of Chairman of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

The Milly Project is the winner in two categories and a finalist in one at the New York International Film Awards.

McGee was a decorated veteran who helped shine light on the racism Black pilots were facing in the Air Force.

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‘Updated COVID-19 Community & Public Health Resource Directory See Information on PAGE 14

e

FullAdvertise Time and In Part Time Positions Available The Unite Publication

We’re Better Together

SilverDollarCity.com/Careers For Rates call: (417) 864-7444 417.338.8122 Also read Unite Online, go to: www.unitenewsonline.org Equal Opportunity Employer / Disabled / Veterans

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job fair

One Door Unite Springfield Feb issue.indd 1

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1/15/19 11:13 AM

Are you without a home, at risk FEBRUARY 11 & 12 of becoming homeless, do not have a safe stable place to stay or need affordable housing, call 417-225-7499 orLocated visit at the SpringSILVER DOLLAR field Affordable HousingCITY Center Apply NOW at 300 E.silverdollarcity.com/jobs Central, Springfield.

Get Connected to Us. Call 417-831-8363 or go to cityutilities.net/purchasing to learn ways we can work together.

417.338.8122

Making Sense of Money February 5, 12, 19 and 26 – (Basic Budgeting Series) Free interactive class to learn how to manage money better.

Registration is required and you must attend all four sessions.

Contact 417-888-2020, ext. 150 or register online at http://www. cpozarks.org/financial-literacy/.

City Utilities is looking for business partners to make our company better. If you offer a product or service, contact our purchasing department to discuss opportunities.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans

Mission: to connect, empower, and advocate for children and families. powered by:

She escaped from slavery and helped others gain freedom through the "Underground Railroad."

Letter to the Editor Continued from Page 7

to being truly inclusive. Neverslavery, he became a theless, I dreamAfter of anescaping inclusive prominent author, speaker, and leader society with mutual respect: during the abolitionist movement. something that Americans can be proud of. Above all, I love because of this revelation.

She bravely refused to give up her bus seat “Disagreement to does not equal a white man, leading to her arrest that launched the Montgomery Bus Boycott. hate.”

Save the Date!

2nd Annual Black History Month Concert 2/20/2022, 3pm Turning Point Church 1722 National Ave.

Literacy is Power! Join us for a free concert presented by Ujima Language & Literacy and stay for a book giveaway after the concert!

Known as the leader of the American Civil Rights Movement, he organized several peaceful protests for equality.

She, a Missouri native, used her talent for writing and poetry to empower and give a voice to the African-American community. www.ujimamo.org key: Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Jr., & Maya Angelou

Page 2 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

Two siblings use their grandmother's advice and use their imaginations to lift them out of their minds, leaving behind feelings of boredom and anger. They're told that this precious skill harkens back to before they were born, when their ancestors showed the world the strength and resilience of their beautiful and brilliant minds.

Designed by: Emily Boone

Seeking Artists of Color

“The 2nd Annual Show Your Colors: Artists Showcase” is seeking artists of color to submit art that best represents their work and who they are as an artist. We encourage artists to create works inspired by self-identity/expression that gives viewers a glimpse of the experience and results of the artist’s life events. Submissions are welcome through February 11th, 2022.

The Artists Empowerment Collective invites artists to audition for a performing arts element to be included in the opening reception or submit up to three works of visual art to be considered for inclusion in the juried exhibition. Any medium of performing or visual art submissions will be considered. Please email your submissions to Keisha@ Springfieldarts.org with “Show Your Colors Submission” in the subject line and include the following for the works submitted: For more information, call (417) 862-2787 or send an email to Keisha McMillen at Keisha@springfieldarts.org About the Artists Empowerment Collective https://www.springfieldarts.org/committee/

Brentwood Chapel - University Chapel Crematory - Columbarium

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Licensed Funeral Directors of Distinction W. Bruce Howell · Robert J. Lohmeyer · Don R. Lohmeyer · Heather K. Howell · Clint W. Mease Angela N. Collins · Harley R. Williams · Andy D. Vowell · Dulcinea M. Lane Nichole E. Bauer · Barbara A. Hinds · Angie Howell Larsen

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Locally owned and operated for over 70 years

Drury University: Pool Art Center Gallery Spring 2022 Exhibition Season - February 4-25 Sunday 10:30 am Go to: deliverancetemple.org for more content Artists included in the exhibition are:

Stephen Marc, Tempe, AZ, archival pigment print

Kevin Bacher, Eatonville, WA Allison Bentzen, West Des Moines, IA Granville Carroll, Rochester, NY Stephen Marc, Tempe, AZ Jose Trejo Maya, Baldwin Park, CA Brian Mitchell, St Louis, MO Ainsley Stevenson, Beavercreek, OH

Unmasking Ourselves: Celebrating Our Differences and Challenging Misconceptions

This national juried exhibition is a collaboration between the gallery and the Honors program. The exhibition is an opportunity for artists to reflect on their identities and their communities. The theme is intended to both celebrate differences as well as confront misconceptions.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Are you inspired to create a better future for yourself and others?

If so, Missouri State has a place for you.

With a campus community filled with diverse perspectives, voices and opinions, Missouri State is fulfilling its commitment to address the needs of a changing society.

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

ARE YOU READY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE? APPLY TODAY AND

www.jobs.missouristate.edu

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 3

From the Editor

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

Volume 32, Number 2 MANAGEMENT MANAGING EDITOR & PRESIDENT Samuel G. Knox ASSOCIATE EDITOR Tyra K Knox CONTENT CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Melesha Bailey CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Jacqueline Jadidian CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Gwen Marshall CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Kathleen O'Dell CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Darline Mabins CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Emily Zimmerman

When I was in grade school back in the early 60s, the Kansas City School district would celebrate Black History Week in February. We would learn about black inventors and black folks who were the first to accomplish things. African American studies have come a long ways since those times. However, the more we learn about black history the more there seems to be learned, about black history. Even today, I am learning things about blacks in American and world history, that I have never come across in my 60 years of continuous learning.

In this month’s issue, we will feature a young principal from Newark, New Jersey who will be the keynote speaker in the Freedom Classroom 101 Workshop Series. The workshop series aims to equip teachers to research, rethink and reimagine how they teach African American studies.

We will also celebrate the award winning movie, that evolved from a newspaper article and a touring play about a black woman who lived in Springfield, MO and went to trial three times to win her freedom.

As always, if you have an interesting story or information you feel needs to be shared with the community, email me or give me a call. Your news leads are always welcomed.

We hope that you enjoy our February issue and find an empowering way to celebrate Black History Month!

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR, Christella Payne CREATIVE TEAM PHOTOGRAPHY, Geve Penaflor GRAPHIC DESIGN, Bradley Knox WEB DEVELOPER, Christoper Palma GRAPHIC DESIGN, Axela Frost The Unite. publication is a monthly newspaper published by Unite of Southwest Missouri, Inc. a 501(c)(3) non-profit community organization.

Our goal is to promote a broader understanding and appreciation of the African American talent, community resources and opportunities available in the Springfield/Greene County area.

Distribution of Unite. is by free circulation at various locations. You may, subscribe and have a copy delivery by mail to your home or office by writing to: UniteNews, P. O. Box 1745, Springfield, Missouri 65801. For a one year subscription, please send $25.00 for 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 UniteNews 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 more information, you can contact us our business office at (417) 864-7444. Email: unitepublication@yahoo.com

Best,

P12

P03

Artists Empowerment Collective Annual Showcase

P03

Drury’s Pool Gallery Black History Month Exhibition

Free | Take One

Research, Rethink & Reimagine

Samuel Knox President & Managing Editor www.unitenewsponline.org unitepublication@yahoo.com

SBJ interviews Taj Suleyman

February 2022 | Volume 32 | No 2 | www.unitenewsonline.org

Workshops designed to help teachers implement African American studies through Place-Based Education

Akbar Cook Sr., Principal

See Story On Page 8

Passing the Torch: Q&A with John Oke-Thomas, Architect

The Milly Project has received two film awards

Renowned Tuskegee Airman Charles McGee dies at 102

Oke-Thomas steps into the role of Chairman of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

The Milly Project is the winner in two categories and a finalist in one at the New York International Film Awards.

McGee was a decorated veteran who helped shine light on the racism Black pilots were facing in the Air Force.

Page 5

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‘Updated COVID-19 Community & Public Health Resource Directory See Information on PAGE 14

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Photos on the Cover: Photo of Old Lincoln School photo with student body, Lincoln School located at Central St and Sherman Ave., and Photo of Lincoln Educators were all provided courtesy of History Museum on the Square. Photo of Akbar Cook Sr. was provided by Akbar Cook Sr.

Our Community News

People In The News

Izze Hughes

Robert Gibson

Learn How to use your iPhone or Manage your Diabetes At The Library

Amby Lewis

Springfield Business Journal’s 2022 class of 40 Under 40 represents 40 accomplished and still-rising professionals in southwest Missouri. Since its 1999 debut, the awards program has honored individuals under the age of 40 for their professional and civic work. This year we congratulate as SBJ’s 2022 Class of 40 Under 40, Izze Hughes, Taney County Partnership; Robert Gibson, Springfield Public Schools and Amby Lewis, A Girl Like Me Network

Passing the Torch: Q&A with John Oke-Thomas

by Logan Aguirre Reprinted with permission from Biz 417 Magazine Jan 2022

Logan Aguirre: We’ve had a few “firsts” in the last couple of years for Chamber Chairmen. Robin Robeson and I were the first back-to-back female Chairmen, and you will be our first African American Chairman. Tell me about the significance of that to you.

John Oke-Thomas: I think it is recognition that Springfield is taking seriously the diversity and inclusion that we’ve been talking about for a while now. And part of that is to ensure that all of the voices are participating in the process.

L.A.: You are a business owner, were a founding member of the Multicultural Business Association and have served on the Chamber board twice before. When you get phone calls asking you to step into these roles, what makes you continue to say yes?

John Oke-Thomas, President/CEO at Oke-Thomas + Associates, Inc.

J.O.: Well I’ve believed strongly that you have to make an impact in whatever community you’re in. And making an impact requires you to make the sacrifice that is necessary in order for you to articulate what your position is and also help continue to build the community.

L.A.: That’s kind of how I feel too. If you really are invested in a place, then you put in the time, and you put in the energy. It’s easy to sit around and say, “Why isn’t it like this?” or

Continued on page 11

If you’re ready to learn new skills in 2022, “personal growth” could be the theme of the Library’s winterto-spring lineup, from iPhone classes for seniors to help for successful seed starting.

Get more out of your device in iPhone Class for Seniors from 10 a.m.-noon on Thursday, Feb. 17 and 24 in the Schweitzer Brentwood Branch community room. If you’re an older adult who would like to do more on your iPhone or iPad, join us for free classes taught by veteran instructor Julie Mahaffey. Register by calling 417-883-1974. Seating is limited; masks are required. Feb. 17: Making & Receiving Text Messages, Using Voice Dictation. Feb. 24: Calendar and Other Useful Apps.

••• Is diabetes an issue in your family? Plan to attend Type 1 Diabetes: From A to Z at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 24, in the Library Center auditorium.

Eight-year-old author Elinor Rowe will read her book, “Type One Diabetes: A to Z,” and then Natalie Allen, registered dietician and Missouri State University clinical assistant professor, will provide information on how to read nutrition labels, calculate carbs and make simple family-friendly changes in the kitchen to help manage Type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes. Books will be available for purchase and signing.

••• A Seed Starting Kits program from 10 a.m.-noon on Saturday, March 5, in the Library Station Santa Fe Room will get you in the mood for spring. Some seeds have a greater chance for success when you start them indoors before putting the plants out in your garden. Take a look at the Library’s Seed Starting Kits and learn pointers on how to have the best success using them. Kits will be available to take home.

••• Learn a new skill at the Maker Space in the Continued on page 11

UniteNews Building Empowering Connections | Page 5

By Gwen Marshall, Unite Contributing Writer

Teaching Our Children Black History

Why It Is Important To Teach Our Children Black History?

Writer and philosopher George Santayana said, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” I would like to add to this powerful message a quote from the book of Proverbs, Gwen Marshall

“There is nothing new under the sun.” We might think it’s a new idea or philosophy but it is not and history stands as a testimony to that fact.

At the opening of Washington D.C.’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, Smithsonian Institution director Lonnie G. Bunch, III stated, “There is no more powerful force than a people steeped in their history. And there is no higher cause than honoring our struggle and ancestors by remembering.”

Black History Month is a time to

Hiring LeadSGF Program Coordinator

Part-Time, Flexible Hours, Remote Work with In-Person Events

Send resumes or questions to Carrie at crichardson@leadershipspringfield.org.

Call 417-986-2884 for more info.

FEB 19TH 5PM - 8PM Page 6 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

remember, reflect and celebrate the many contributions people of the Black diaspora have made throughout American history. For many, the month-long celebration also offers an opportunity to reimagine what great opportunities lay ahead, not just during the month of February, but for a lifetime.

Did You Know?

Carter G. Woodson, the son of a former slave and a Harvard educated historian, started a group now known as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). He formed the group fifty years after slavery had been abolished in the United States of America.

Dr. Woodson, who is also known as the “Father of Black History”, was also a celebrated member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated. This organization created “Negro History and Literature Week” which was originally celebrated in April. Eventually, the second week of February was chosen to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, two men who played a prominent role in eliminating slavery. And in 1976, President Gerald Ford officially

recognized February as Black History Month.

Why is Black History Month celebrated?

Initially, Black History Month was a way of teaching students and young people about Black and African-Americans’ contributions.

Stories of their lives and accomplishments had been largely forgotten and were a neglected part of the national narrative.

It is a celebration of those who have impacted not just the country but the world with their activism and achievements. The month of February is an opportunity for people to engage with Black histories that go beyond discussions of racism and slavery, to highlight Black leaders and triumphs.

It is extremely important that we continue to teach our children their history. As local entrepreneur and professor Dr. Lyle Foster said recently, “We should teach our children the history of their ancestors, starting in the home and in their communities.”

We must not forget. Happy Black History Month!

Coming Events: Presidents Day: February 21, 2022 (School System Closed)

The Milly Project Wins Two New York International Film Awards

by Emily Zimmerman Unite Guest Writer Springfield, MO—The Milly Project has placed as a winner in two categories and a finalist in one at the New York International Film Awards.

Nearly two centuries have passed since Milly Sawyers was first known. While a lot about her still remains a mystery, archivists, journalists, and even students have helped in retelling her story.

Milly Sawyers was a black woman from Springfield, Missouri who won her freedom from slavery at an 1835 court proceeding.

Although the beginning life of Milly Sawyers is still unknown, archivists were able to piece together

remnants of her life. In her earlier years, worn-out records make historians believe that Sawyers first lived in Ohio: a state that made slavery illegal at the time. When she was taken as a slave, people also believe that she was passed around and had a total of three masters; however, that didn’t stop her from fighting for her freedom despite the odds. When she moved to Saint Louis, Missouri, Sawyers went to trial twice to win her freedom, claiming it was illegal for her to be a slave since she was originally born in a free state.

Unfortunately, she lost both of the trials. It wasn’t until she moved to Springfield that she tried fighting for her freedom again. This

Continued on page 11

Cast members from the Milly Project

Renowned Tuskegee Airman Charles McGee dies at 102

Tuskegee Airman, Charles McGee

Associated Press—Tuskegee Airman Charles McGee has died at age 102. McGee was a decorated veteran who helped shine light on the racism Black pilots were facing at home while trying to fight for that same home in battle.

McGee began his flying career after World War II by entering an ‘experimental program’ for Black pilot candidates seeking positions in the Army Air Corps. After passing his examination, he was sent to the Tuskegee Army Field in Alabama. According to his biography in the National Aviation Hall of Fame, he joined the all-Black 332nd Fighter Group, 12th Air Force nicknamed the “Red Tails.”

“You could say that one of the things we were fighting for was equality. Equality of opportunity.

We knew we had the same skills, or better,” he told AP News in 1995.

By the time he came back home, he had flown 136 missions over Europe. AP reported that out of the 900 men who trained at Tuskegee while McGee was in attendance, only 450 were deployed overseas and 150 lost their lives.

In recent years the Tuskegee Airmen have been the subject of books, movies and documentaries highlighting their courage in the air and the doubts they faced on the ground because of their race.

In 2007 a Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian award from Congress, was issued to recognize their “unique military record that inspired revolutionary reform in the Armed Forces.”

McGee remained in the Army Air Corps, later the U.S. Air Force, and served for 30 years. He flew low-level bombing and strafing missions during the Korean War and returned to combat again during the Vietnam War. The National Aviation Hall of Fame says his 409 aerial fighter combat missions in three wars remains a record.

He retired as a colonel in the Air Force in 1973, then earned a Continued on page 11

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 7

Research, Rethink and Reimagine Black History Equipping teachers to Research, Rethink and Reimagine how they teach African American Studies.

Springfield, MO— Timmons Hall will host the Newark, New Jersey high school principal Akbar Cook, Sr. as part of its Black History Month programming in February. Cook is the keynote speaker in the Freedom Classroom 101 Workshop Series and will present at 2:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 4 at Timmons Hall in Silver Springs Park, 1055 E. Webster St. The workshop series aims to equip teachers to research, rethink and reimagine how they teach African American studies Cook became known for creating the Lights-On Program at Newark, New Jersey’s West End High School, which provides students with a safe place to spend Friday nights. Each week, kids eat, play video games, play basketball, and participate in other activities until 11 p.m. thanks to Cook’s efforts. During the summer, the one-night-a-week program initially increased to three, but in 2020, Oprah Winfrey surprised Cook with a $500,000 donation to the school, which allows it to keep its lights on every night.

It is reported that Cook has not lost a student to gun violence since starting Lights-On. He says there has been an increase in daily attendance since making other investments in the school.

In 2019, West Side installed a laundry room to provide students with a way to launder their school

Akbar Cook, Sr.

uniforms. Cook noticed some students were coming to school in dirty uniforms and were being bullied, resulting in chronic absenteeism. While students wash their clothes, a teacher helps them with their schoolwork.

Cook wants his students to be “Career Ready” and able to compete. He works with his students on 4 tracks: Trade school, 2- or 4-year degrees, military, or career readiness. He couldn’t afford to wait on policy change. “He has become the change his school needed.” Cook sees himself in the picture he calls his students his babies and lets them know that they are family.

In 2014 Christine People along with the support of Jim Schmidt, Associate Director of the Springfield Greene County Library, created the Meet n ’Greet Celebration at the Mid-Town Branch Carnegie Library. During that project, Peoples noticed that preschool children up to the fourth grade when asked how they felt about Black History month and how they felt about themselves, many of the children expressed feelings of being devalued.

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Christine Peoples

So Peoples solicited various community members to come together at these Meet n’ Greet celebrations to teach age-appropriate history, art, and social etiquette, to help children understand and develop a sense of pride in one’s history and in one’s identity.

The Freedom Classroom 101 workshop series is designed to help teachers implement African American studies through PlaceBased Education. Each workshop was specifically put together to help teachers research, rethink and reimagine how they teach African American studies benefit schools and the community.

Educators will be challenged to do Research on local black history and the significance of various points along the African American Heritage Trail —Rethink how communities of color sustained themselves and even thrived despite unjust laws and treatment, and to Reimagine themselves in the picture as a way to take education to the next level.

Freedom Classroom 101 Workshops The following Freedom Classroom 101 workshops training connect to the Meet n’ Greet program framework to assist with setting foundational norms in the classroom.

Kendra Chappell, Teaching Artist; Director- Writer-Counselor and Designer of Art Immersion.

Equipping teachers with prep, process, and mindful exercises that deal with hard histories, empathy, resilience, and value through movement and creation.

Art Immersion Saturday, February 26th Meet n’ Greet Assembly 10:30 a.m. -

Continued on page 9

“Like Springfield MO Lincoln School teachers, Cook wants his students to be career ready and able to compete.”

Timmons Hall located in the Silver Springs Park

Kendra Chappell

Reseach, Rethink...

Continued from Page 8 10:55 a.m.

Session: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Lunch 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

••• Mark Simmonds is originally from the U.S. Virgin Islands. With his father a part of the military, the family relocated to Missouri of University with a bachelor’s in special education and later earned a Master’s in Special Education.

Mark just recently completed his Specialist degree in Education Administration.

Mark has been employed with Springfield Public Schools for 13 years and currently a Principal -Coordinator at Springfield Option Site on Great Circle Campus.

Just Be Present - Connecting with underserved and underrepresented youth.

Saturday, April 23rd Meet n ’Greet Assembly Spotlight Presenter 10:30 a.m. - 10:55 a.m.

••• Dr. Sabrina A. Brinson Author, Activist, Diversity Consultant, and University Professor, Founder and National Director of Boys Booked on Barbershops and Girls Booked on Beauty shops.

Providing training for diverse

Mark Simmonds

educators taking students through the program specifically, “Utilizing Culturally Sustaining Books as Curricula.”

Culturally Responsive Literature Saturday, April 23rd Session: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Lunch 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

••• Taj Suleyman, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion City of Springfield, Missouri.

Empowering students through teachers becoming collaborative leaders through cultural proficiency and restorative practice skills. Establishing an equity lens model of fairness through laws-land-cultural demographics and in the classroom.

The Equity Lens Model Saturday, June 11th Meet n ’Greet Assembly 10:30 a.m. - 10:55 a.m.

Session: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Lunch 12 p.m. - 1p.m.

••• Community Foundation of the Ozarks, (CFO), provided the grant funding for the Freedom Classroom 101 Workshop Series and to bring Cook to Springfield.

Last summer, CFO announced that it is deepening its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion with the first grant programs of the new fiscal year, dedicating

Dr. Sabrina A. Brinson

Taj Suleyman

additional unrestricted grantmaking funds for nonprofit agencies that work to uplift members of marginalized identity groups.

Seating will be limited to 30 and guests are asked to register by calling 417-864-1046. The presentation will be livestreamed on the City of Springfield’s Facebook page at CityofSGF and on AfricanAmericanHeritageTrailSGF.org.

Timmons Hall, formerly known as Timmons Temple, officially

opened to the public in 2019 following relocation to the park in 2015 and four years of restoration work managed by Friends of Timmons Temple. The former church now serves as an event facility offering historical, cultural and educational opportunities,. It is owned and operated by the Park Board and under the direction of Christine Peoples, Coordinator of Timmons Hall.

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 9

Your Health & Wellness News Our Children, Their Future

by Melesha Bailey Unite Contributing Writer

single-families with only a mother, a father, or a grandparent raising children.

Springfield, MO— Children are Our children’s future is at risk as our future, especially the future many face health issues that usuof generations of ally affect adults. For Blacks. Thereexample, children are fore, our children’s diagnosed with diabehealth and wellness tes, high blood presmust be at the heart sure, and morbid obeof everything we sity at earlier stages of do if we want our development. Unrace and culture to fortunately, Covid-19 thrive and survive. has put the health of Unfortunately, life our kids in jeopardy, Melesha Bailey expectancy has declined along with the rise of these since Covid, and the rising rate of chronic health issues. chronic disease in younger chilMinority children and low-income dren has decreased life expectanfamilies are 2x more disprocy and quality of life as children portionately affected by health mature into adults. disparities than whites. For As caretakers of these beautiful example, between 1960 and 2005, children, we aim to raise happy according to a study by Hindawi and healthy children to young BioMed Research International, adults. But it’s challenging in the percentage of children with many of today’s households of a chronic disease in the United

Springfield, MO— When I was an executive director in senior living communities, I noticed a frequent topic was discussed between rehabilitation therapists (physical and occupational) and the

Our Body Is Meant To Move

resident (senior living communities refer seniors as “resident”); that topic was to educate and encourage residents to try to keep moving throughout the day. Sometimes we had to hold an interdisciplinary meeting with the resident which involved the community’s professionals Jacqueline Jadidian (therapist, nursing

by Jacqueline Jadidian Unite Contributing Writer

States almost quadrupled, with minority youth’s having a higher likelihood for the most common major chronic diseases in the United States like asthma, diabetes, obesity, hypertension, dental disease, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, mental illness, cancers, sickle-cell anemia, cystic fibrosis, and a variety of genetic and other congenital disabilities.

Some of the causes of these childhood health issues are adults modeling unhealthy lifestyles before their children. We influence their fundamental values about religion, education, and healthy lifestyles. The stronger our relationship with the children in our lives, the more impact we’ll have.

Children seek your guidance and value our opinions and support.

You can help your children by: • Being a positive role model for healthy eating and activity habits.

• Provide a calm atmosphere

Page 10 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

director and sometimes myself) to encourage the resident to walk and exercise more often versus sitting most of the day.

We are made to move. Of course as we age there are hindrances and medical reasons that limit us from pursuing certain activities; however, if we are medically allowed we should always strive to keep moving and staying limber. As you are reading this you may think this is a no-brainer,

around meals and snacks. Don’t put your kids on a diet. Instead, make mealtime fun and memorable.

• Set appropriate limits for screen-time like television, tablets, and video games.

• Involve the whole family in fun physical activities.

• Help children develop and maintain a positive body image.

• Don’t use food as a reward because we usually use sugary or processed food. That creates lifelong habits of using food as a reward.

• Teach yourself and your kids to eat a rainbow of fruits and vegetables.

• Cut out soda, fruit juice, and sugary drinks. Instead, choose healthy beverages such as WATER, tea, homemade smoothies are a few examples.

• For a more in-depth list of ideas Continued on page 13

though you’d be surprised how much of our aging population is moving less and sitting more. We must keep our muscle mass intact and focus on staying limber. Falls with the aging population are prevalent and one reason why falls are occurring and usually lead to an injury is because the individual is not striving to stay active each day by working on exercises that help the body stay limber and Continued on page 13

Passing The Torch

Continued from Page 5 “Why can’t we do this?”

J.O.: That’s exactly it, you know. We have a lot of what I’ll call armchair referees, but at some point you have to step in there and roll up your sleeves and make it work instead of complaining about it.

L.A.: I’m curious if you have any goals for your chairman year that you’ve thought of that you’d want to share.

J.O.: My goal at this point is to continue to move forward with the programs and the opportunities that the chamber has to offer and also ensure that we continue on the diversity and inclusion initiatives that we started. It is not enough to be diverse. It is also necessary and required that we be inclusive as well….

And continuing to emphasize the so-called non-college individuals— recognizing that not everyone wants to go to college and not everyone is interested in going to college. So how do we make sure that those who are not college-bound have the opportunities and the know-how to allow them to move into the type of trades that do not require a college education? Because at the end of the day, the more people we can move into the middle class, the better the society is going to be... We have to make the necessary investment to make sure that those in that circumstance are not a lost generation. Because eventually society will pay the price.

How do we make sure that we stop the cycle and move to a better place?

L.A.: Your story is really incredible about growing up in Lagos, Nigeria, then moving to Italy, France and then England. And then you went to University of Kansas?

J.O.: I got admitted to University of Kansas, but I did not actually go there because when I got to Lawrence, Kansas, there were just too many students. I was looking for a college or university that was as small as the one I went to in London.

One of my friends said, “There’s a college in this small town of Springfield, Missouri, that you might want to take a look at. So I drove down to Springfield, met with the administration office over at Drury which was called Drury College at that time.

They told me they had just started the architectural program there, and it had the student to professor ratio that I was looking for. So I sent in all my documents, and I was admitted, and that’s how I got to Springfield.

Library

Continued from Page 5 Midtown Carnegie Branch by appointment from 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. on Tuesday, March 15. Families with children in grades K-6 can learn and create. Our trained staff will introduce you to the Glowforge Laser Printer and get you started creating a personalized wooden bookmark.

Sign up for an hour appointment; materials will be provided.

Registration starts March 1; call 417-862-0135.

Kathleen O’Dell is community relations director of the Springfield-Greene County Library District.

She can be reached at kathleeno@ thelibrary.org.

The Milly Project

Continued from Page 7 time, she succeeded and won the trial. Unhappy that a freed black

woman was living among them, an angry mob came after her several months later, dragged her into the street and beat her.

This story was then forgotten for years to come, collecting dust on the shelves. It wasn’t until 2017 that the director of Greene County Archivist Springfield, Missouri, Connie Yen, found a particular file over African-American History, which led to her rediscovery of Sawyers’ story. Shortly after her findings, Connie Yen reported the story to Giacomo Bologna, but it didn’t stop there. Once Bologna published the story, it caught the eye of a Willard High School theater teacher, Kendra Chappell.

Sawyers’ story inspired Chappell to act, leading to the start of the Milly Project. Soon after that, Sawyers’ story took off.

“The Milly Project’’ is a play that tells the newly unveiled story of an enslaved woman who relentlessly fought for and won her freedom in Springfield: a play that was based on the handwritten court manuscripts from Sawyers’ trial.

Once Chappell finished writing the script, she had help from her students to perform the project and bring it to fruition. It’s an emotional performance that reminds people of the forgotten parts of Missouri’s history. As Kendra Chappell mentions,”Hidden stories help us move forwards as a community.” Stories like Milly Sawyers’ can help people understand and respect the past.

The truth can be scary, but despite the project receiving some backlash from people at first, the Milly Project, like Milly, persisted.

With the help of GoFundme and the community, the project was made into a film. In two days, the cast was able to rehearse the show, and after many rewrites, they were able to film the movie itself in one day.

The film has won Best Social Justice Film, Best Screenplay, and was a finalists for Best Acting Ensemble. Thanks to the awards, the project was able to receive more recognition and push the story forward to more people.

Chappell mentioned, “the project has created a deeper love as I have been broken by many consequences brought forth by the telling of this story. The mission of telling our history and the mission of Milly Sawyers is why we tell the story: freedom.” In the future, those involved with the project hope that Sawyers’ story will expand to other communities and be seen at events such as festivals or live productions.

Tuskegee Airman

Continued from Page 7 college degree in business administration and worked as a business executive. He was awarded an honorary commission promoting him to the one-star rank of brigadier general as he turned 100.

Another event marked his centennial year.

McGee also received a standing ovation from Congress upon being introduced in President Trump’s State of the Union address in 2020. McGee received the Congressional Gold Medal and was inducted as a National Aeronautics Association Elder Statesman of Aviation.

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 11

Springfield DEI director offers advice for businesses

by Geoff Pickle, Reprinted with permission from SBJ January 19, 2022 The city of Springfield’s first diversity, equity and inclusion director yesterday offered advice to business leaders during the monthly 12 People You Need to Know series.

During the live interview hosted by Springfield Business Journal, Suleyman said leaders in business, nonprofit, faith and other organizations must be intentional when it comes to DEI issues.

“It’s not just the right thing to do. It’s actually good for business,” Suleyman said, pointing to

the effects of diverse voices within companies.

The most important trait for leaders who care about DEI issues is to foster a sense of empathy, Suleyman said.

Further, he said being an inclusive leader means you waste last time when overseeing a diverse workforce.

“Inclusion is when you engage individuals according to their learning styles,” he said.

Suleyman urged business leaders with questions to approach him on the topic.

Originally from the country of Lebanon, Suleyman arrived in the United States with his family

Continued on page 13

Taj Suleyman, city’s first diversity, equity and inclusion director talks with Eric Olson

Soul food cuisine served by Queen City Soul Kitchen

Lyle Foster, Owner and Francine Pratt Creative Food Specialist Guest Columnist Darline Mabins for Multicultural Business Association

Springfield, MO—If you are from this area or passing through, one thing that may stand out, are the

restaurants that add to the landscape of our city. Some may think of this place as a foodie’s paradise.

One thing that was lacking and part of the realization for this month’s spot light restaurant was the absence of, soul food cuisine.

The origin of soul food isn’t as glamourous as what we think of today. During the Transatlantic Slave Trade, enslaved African people were given meager food rations, which were low in quality and nutritional value. They used what they had and adapted traditional recipes with the resources available. Soul food has evolved and grown throughout many generations; mostly in the Deep South. Dishes like, fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread are

Page 12 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

just a few of the popular dishes that come to mind, when most people think of soul food. Queen City Soul Kitchen right here in Springfield MO, is serving up all of these popular dishes and more.

We were excited to catch up with the restaurant’s Creative Food Specialist Francine Pratt, to learn a little bit more about them. She was proud to share that 99% of the ingredients used in their menu, is from scratch.

The recipes have been made and passed down through her family and their ancestors. Her passion for cooking comes from watching her father and aunt cook, as she was growing up. She shared, lightheartedly, that as she grew up in a generation where children

were “seen and not heard”, it gave her the opportunity to watch and listen. Having the ability to participate in home economics classes in high school further helped to fuel her passion and desire towards cooking.

Fun fact: Francine was able to cook for the Nixon era Secret Servicemen at the White House.

You will have to visit with her, for those details!

Queen City Soul Kitchen came to be because, the restaurant’s owner Lyle Foster, sought to add to a landscape of multiple food options; that didn’t include the comforts of soul food. The restaurant continues to grow today by adding new dished to its menu and Continued on page 13

Library

Continued from Page 3

DEI Director other branch or Mobile Library.

Continued Page 12 card.

Pay fines with from a debit/credit Access Wi-Fi from 5:30 a.m.-11 a refugee p.m.,asevery day. in 2000, SBJ previously reported.

The 24/7 libraryHe is joined withinthe city of Springfield 2021 after walking distance in to May several westpreviously working as director side neighborhoods, businesses of for Dubuque Community and equity restaurants; the Young-Lilley Schools in Iowa.

Park, and it’s next to a Springfield At the city, Suleyman said his City Utilities bus stop on West first goal is to examine internal Chestnut Expressway. processes whenits it comes The 24/7 made debut to in diversity.

How, for example, are early February with funding from diversity,ofequity and inclusion the Friends the Library and being promoted within theState city additional support from the government, and how is the city Library. looking for ••• diverse talent?

Noting a willingness to change If you’re a grandparent raising Springfield for the better from grandchildren or know someone the leaders, Suleymanwill said the whocity’s is, helpful resources Queen City has “great potential.” be highlighted from 1-4 p.m.

An antidiscrimination ordinance Saturday, Feb. 16, at the Library is a top goal, he said, but he Station. Visit with representawantorganizations to stop with what tivesdoesn’t from area and could be seen as “performative” gather information on community legal protections. resources.

It’s sponsored by the “Inclusion all SpringLibrary, NAACP’smeans Be a Jewel and fieldians are Grands.

Springfieldians,” Grands Raising RegistrasaidFeb. of a cultural shift needed tion he starts 5; call 616-0683. within the community.

••• Here are two more programs for families: Soul Kitchen Picky Eaters and Problem FeedContinued from Page 12 ers is the topic from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 23, in the expanding their hours. They plan Library Center auditorium. If to open for business on Thursdays mealtimes and snacks with a child from 4:00pm to 8:00pm; Friday are a struggle, this is for you!

11:30 to 8:00 pm and SaturdayRegister by calling 883-5341.

Sunday 12:00 to 6:00pm. During Conscious Parenting: From the month of February; Queen Chaos to Calm, 10-11:30 a.m. SatCity Soul Kitchen hopes to offer urday, March 16, in the Library events and programming focused Center auditorium. Conscious around Black History Month.

Discipline supports children’s So if you to visit the team healthy socialhave andyet emotional at Queen City Soul We learning.

Parents learnKitchen. life-changhope you will make the trip to ing skills that decrease problem try their peach cobbler. This is Fran-

behavior. Presented in partnership with Early Childhood One Stop.

Call 616-0563 cine’s favorite dish to to register. prepare. It is also a family tradition that she has worked to perfect through the years. Queen City Soul Kitchen is Continued 5 located atfrom 2006Page N Broadway Ave, Springfield, MO.

Resources

June. Contact the MO Job Center at 417-887-4343 for more Our Children, Our Future information.

Continued from Page 10

A Great Place To Work For Great People!

before pursuing any of these sugsafe while you’re moving. gestions to make sure you’re safe Taking exercise classes such and healthy to do so)… as chair tai chi and yoga, stretch If you have a difficult time and band classes. Classes are walking because of balance, you usually offered at senior centers, may need to purchase a walker. gyms (silver sneakers), and of Walkers these days are nothing course senior living communities. like the old school walkers with These classes will help you the tennis balls. Today’s walkers Full Time and Part Time Positions Available stay limber and hopefully avoid allow you to sit, carry items and muscle atrophy. Remember, we offer brakes SilverDollarCity.com/Careers if needed. Purchasare created to move! ing a walker will help you 417.338.8122 stay

Change 1000 Skills Academy help kids right,(6check 2 to Weeks – 36eat Hours hoursout a Equal Opportunity Employer / Disabled / Veterans www.eatright.org/kids. day) new job-training program Children’s health starts with for manufacturing, construction, the foods they eat, what they transportation/logistics, infordrink, their activities, and expomation technology and healthOne Door Unite Springfield Feb issue.indd 1 1/15/19 11:13 AM sureindustries. to healthierYou lifestyle options care can work Are you without a home, at risk to slow job down and attending stop the chronic another while the of becoming homeless, do not disease At children face.

As examtraining. the end of training, and Native American sculptor to have a safe stable place to stay ples, we have build healthy participants aretoconnected or need affordable housing, call earn international recognition, alternatives in our comtolifestyle employment opportunities 417-225-7499 or visit the SpringEdmonia Lewis challenged social munities, homes, schools,who and with the same employers field Affordable Housing Center barriers and assumptions about churches. designed the training program. at 300 E. Central, Springfield. artists in mid-19th century AmeriWefor better ourjobs children’s Wages most start future ca,” USPS added. when we$10 ALL startper conveying the between - $17 hour. For Making Sense of Money same message: health matters more information or to register February 5, 12, 19 and 26 – NEEDED and www.changeonethousnad. it’s a matter of life and death. visit: SEEKING (Basic Budgeting Series) It begins YOU for the future org or call with 417-887-4343.

Free interactive class to learn

Sculptor Edmonia Lewis Is on USPS’ New Black Heritage Stamp

generations of empowered, eduNorthwest Projecthealthy kids: Our cated, inspired, Offers a free program children, their future. to help

families revitalize their hope so they can set and meet personal goals a community system Bodywith Is Meant For Movement ofContinued support. Program from Pagepartici10 pants focus on specific ways to help families movethere fromare living strong.

Of course other paycheck to paycheck: Affordreasons why we fall such as trip able Quality Quality hazards (i.e.Housing, rugs, cords), not Childcare, Transportation, using assistive devices (i.e. Job walkTraining Educational Oper, cane)and and/or medication side portunities, Budgeting, Resolveffects; however, a majority of the ing Legal Issues, Accountability falls with the aging population is and Health and Well Being. For because of lack of exercising and more information: contact the movement.

Northwest Project at: www.

Here are two tips to keep you DrewLewis.org, SGFNWP@ or your loved one active and gmail.com or 417-720-1890.

limber (please consult your doctor

USPS—The United States Postal

how to manage money better.

Service is honoring the contribuRegistration is required and you tionsattend of late pioneering sculptor must all four sessions.

Edmonia417-888-2020, Lewis.

Contact ext. 150 or register The 45thonline stampatinhttp://www. the Black cpozarks.org/financial-literacy/.

Heritage series honors Edmonia Lewis, the first African American and Native American sculptor to earn international recognition.

Continued 7 The stampfrom art isPage a casein-paint

Letter to the Editor

portrait a photograph to beingbased trulyon inclusive.

Neverof Lewis by Augustus Marshall theless, I dream of an inclusive made inwith Boston between 1864 and society mutual respect: something Americans 1871,” USPSthat officials said in can the be proud of. Above all,noted I lovethat media advisory, which because of this revelation. the stamp will be issued in panes “Disagreement does not equal of 20. hate.”

As the first African American

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 13

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 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

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

EDUCATION PRE-K TO 12TH GRADE AND BEYOND HIGH SCHOOL • RENT OR MORTGAGE ASSISTANCE • CHILD CARE & TUTORING

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 15

#DanceLikeaDad #DanceLikeaDad YOUR HEADLINE HERE Instructions: Click on text box and hold down Ctrl+E to adjust size and text formatting (bold, italics, underline) YOUR MESSAGE HERE Instructions: Click on text box and hold down Ctrl+E to adjust size and text formatting (bold, italics, underline)

Becoming more involved in your child’s life can take a lot of different forms. At every stage your children can benefit from your involvement. Read with young children. Join the elementary school parent teacher organization. Chaperone a school event. Volunteer as a coach, or ask your child’s coach in what way she/he could use your help. Take a rainy Saturday and turn it into a family movie night.

Take time to be a positive and supporting part of your child’s life. The resources and links here are a great starting place to learn more.

YOUR HEADLINE HERE Instructions: Click on text box and hold down Ctrl+Efatherhood.gov to adjust size and text formatting (bold, italics, underline) YOUR MESSAGE HERE Instructions: Click on text box and hold down Ctrl+E to adjust size and text formatting