2022 August Unite

2022 ParkDay Reunion Weekend Agenda | See Back Cover

UniteNews

August 2022 | Volume 32 | No 8 | www.unitenewsonline.org

Free | Take One

Back-to-School Tips: Make the first day easier for every student Page 8 Mama G’s Kitchen comes to life at Metro Eats on East Sunshine Page 6 Pratt announces retirement from MSU Page 7

Highlighting historical and current contributions at Timmons Hall Page 7

Read Stor y On Page 7

Register for the SpringMO Black Wellness Initiative Kick-Off See Information on PAGE 11

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SEEKING Advertise In The Full Time Part Time Positions Available Minority & and Women Unite Publication SilverDollarCity.com/Careers Contractors For Rates call: 417.338.8122

All Specialties of licensed and insured contractors are encouraged Equal Opportunity Employer / Disabled / Veterans to participate in the City of Springfield’s “HUD” financed Housing Rehabilitation Projects.

(417) 864-7444

We welcome One Door General Contracors Unite Springfield Feb• issue.indd 1 • SUb-contractors covering Are you without a home, at all risk residential building trades e

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We’re Better Together

1/15/19 11:13 AM

of becoming homeless, do not Call(417) 864-1031 have a Questions? safe stable place to stay Applications are available at: or need affordable housing, call City od Springfield, Planning & Development Dept.

417-225-7499 or visit the SpringNeighborhood Conservation Office 840 N. Boonville, Springfield, MO field Affordable Housing Center at 300 E. Central, Springfield.

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

Powered by: 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/.

WITH Letter to FUN the Editor

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.

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

KIDS CORNER Mission: to connect, empower, and advocate for children and families in pursuit of their highest levels of literacy.

WORDS

Continued from Page 7

to being truly inclusive. Nevertheless, I dream of an inclusive manyrespect: words can you find societyHow with mutual in the word can VACATION? something that Americans be proud of. Above all, I love because of this revelation.

1. ___________________________ “Disagreement does not equal 2. ___________________________ hate.”

3. ___________________________ 4. ___________________________ 5. ___________________________ 6. ___________________________

DIVERSE BOOK RECOMMENDATION

FAMILY LITERACY NIGHT Wednesday, Aug. 10th, 6-7pm Turning Point Church, 1722 N. National Ave. Ages: Birth-11 yrs. old ~ DINNER ~ FUN LITERACY CLASSES ~ ~ BOOK GIVEAWAY ~

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Page 2 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

Powered by:

Family time means it's time to pack up the car and head to the beach!

From the Editor

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

Volume 32, Number 8 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, Heather Noggle

It’s finally back! After a two-year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Springfield Reunion Club and the Springfield - Greene County Parks Department have made the decision to resume the historical ParkDay Reunion Weekend celebration. The theme for 2022 is, “Reunited Together Again.” Each year the Springfield Reunion Club works hard to coordinate the 3-4 days of events. If the trend continues, this year’s event is projected to have one of the largest crowds in years due to the pent-up demand to travel and get a way to have some fun.

The month of August also marks Back-To-School time signaling that summer is over and it’s time for students to turn their focus back toward their studies.

For you car and travel enthusiast, Springfield will host the returning Route 66 Festival. This annual event usually draws crowds of 70,000 + from all around the world.

While it’s great to see these large crowd events returning, I urge everyone to be diligent about protecting themselves against the coronavirus that seems to be on the rise in recent days.

As always, if you have an interesting story or information you would like for us to consider writing about, email or give us a call. Your news leads are always welcomed.

We hope that you enjoy our August issue and find an empowering way to celebrate the ParkDay Reunion Weekend Celebration.

Best,

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR, Christella Payne CREATIVE TEAM 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 delivered 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 at our business office at (417) 864-7444. Email: unitepublication@yahoo.com

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

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 3

Autumn programs at The Library offer some fun programs for adults to Volume 31,personal Number 5 interests pursue

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

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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

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Page Page 44 Building Building Empowering Empowering Connections Connections || Unite Unite News News

UNITE.

Invest in your brain health MANAGEMENT with Wits Workout at 10 a.m. Thursdays, MANAGING EDITOR & PRESIDENT Samuel G. Knox Aug. 18 and 25 in the Schweitzer Brentwood Branch Library. Join in ASSOCIATE EDITOR Tyra K Knox brain games and make new friends to help stay sharp and young at heart.

CONTENT CONTRIBUTING Melesha Sharpen your computer skills,WRITER, or prepare forBailey a new job learning CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Sativa B-Sloan CONTRIBUTING Gwen Marshall Google Tools from 1-3 p.m. Monday, Aug. 29, at WRITER, the Midtown CarnCONTRIBUTING WRITER, Kathleen O'Dell egie Branch Library Computer Training Center. Learn to use Google CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Daniel Ogunyemi tools including Gmail, Google Meet, Google Drive, Calendar, Docs and Sheets. Call 417-837-5011. CREATIVE TEAM ••• Erin Gamble PHOTOGRAPHY, FESTIVAL GRAPHIC Knoxor your club? Want Need to personalize T-shirts for DESIGN, a familyBradley reunion to launch your personalized cutting board business for a fall craft fair?

COMMUNITY ADVISORY GROUP You can do all those things at The Library’s Maker Space in the MidCOMMUNITY ADVISORY MEMBER, Christopher Palma town Carnegie Branch.

Learn about the tools to help you do it at the COMMUNITY ADVISORY MEMBER, Jasmine Bailey 4 p.m. Tuesday, Sept.

13, Maker Space Orientation for adults. Watch COMMUNITY ADVISORY MEMBER, Diana Vargas demonstrations and see sample projects. The tour will cover basic operation, safety and design resources. Registration starts Aug. 31; call 417-837-5011.

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 If you’ve never toethnically the Friends oftalent, the Library book understanding and ventured appreciationout of the diverse community resources and opportunities available in the Springfield/Greene County area.

Distribution Unite. sales, the upcoming fall sale is your next chance to check it out.ofThe is by free circulation at various locations. However, request for home delivery by mail may be E*Plex at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds will be filled with like-new directed to Unite. P. O. Box 1745, Springfield, Missouri 65801 and accompanied by $25. for books of allpostage genres adults, from spiritual to cookbooks; popular one year’s andfor handling.

Thosechildren’s wishing to make a contribution become a monthly should direct teen and books – most orcategorized for sponsor easy browsing. correspondence to the same address.

Reader’s comments and questions welcomed.

Books, DVDs, CDs, games and puzzles are priced at onlyare $1, better The opinions expressed in these pages do not necessarily reflect the views of Unite. of Southwest books are $2 and up. And don’t forget paperbacks – 25 cents each!

Missouri, Inc. The sale isPublication Wednesday-Friday, Sept. in14-16, 10 a.m.8 p.m.; Satur“The Unite in accepting advertising this publication, makes no independent the services advertised and neither endorses nor 18, day,investigation Sept. 17,concerning (Half-Price Day) of10products a.m.-5 p.m.; and Sunday, Sept. the same and assumes no liability therefore.”

1-5recommends p.m. That’s Bag Day, when everything you can jam into a sack is For further information, you can contact us at (417) 864-7444. onlyEmail: $1, unitepublication@yahoo.com or $5 from the “better books” side.

Admission is free Wednesday-Sunday. Or try the early-bird sale Tuesday, Sept. 13, from 5-8 p.m. – free admission for Friends members, or $5 at the door to shop and join the Friends that night. Cash or checks are accepted; parking is free. Proceeds support special events and new services at the Springfield-Greene County Libraries.

If you would like to make a contribution to the Unite Kathleen O’Dell is the director News Publication andcommunity it’s mission,relations please mail your of the Springfield-Greene County District.

She MO can65801 be reached at kathgift to Unite, P.O. Library Box 1745, Springfield, or leeno@thelibrary.org. contact our office at (417) 864-7444.

“Let’s build a stronger community together.”

- Samuel Knox

Make A Contribution Today!

Managing Editor

Community News People In The News

Big Momma’s Coffee and Espresso Bar celebrates 15 years

Du’Sean Powell

Marcie Davis

Jonathan Bell

Jamaican Patty is owned

by Du’Sean Powell. He has been in business in Springfield since 2018 and offers authentic Jamaican cuisine at its brick-and-mortar location at 3439 S. Campbell.

Du’Sean started a food truck in 2020 and added a Jamaican market to his restaurant last year. He plans to use the ASCEND grant funds to acquire new talent and expand into a new Downtown location.

MD Hair Supplies is owned by Marcie Davis.

She opened a storefront in March 2022 on East Division between C-Street and Downtown, near the new Boyd Elementary. She is committed to providing hair and skin products to African American and biracial customers who currently have too few options. She plans to use the ASCEND grant funds to acquire more ethnic hair and skin products.

Bell’s Marketing Consultant is owned by Jonathan Bell. He started his digital marketing company in March of 2020. He and his team are on a mission to become the #1 innovative marking firm for small companies by providing workshops at no additional charge. Jonathan just graduated from Parkview High School in May and has an office in the efactory.

Meet the new YMCA Director, Mr Kenneth Wilson

Kenneth Wilson, Executive Director at Pat Jones YMCA

Kenneth Wilson moved to Springfield Mo from Oklahoma to become the Pat Jones YMCA Executive Director. Kenneth brings 14 years of YMCA experience where he was the Operation Director with the Richard Kane Family YMCA of Bartlesville in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. Before relocating here to join the Ozark Regional YMCA, Kenneth was a Navy Moral Wellness & Recreation Manager as a civilian on board the USS Kearsarge (LHD-3) out of Norfolk Virginia.

Kenneth was raised in San Diego California, where his family still resided and loves to visit. Kenneth holds a bachelor’s degree in Recreation & Tourism and a Master’s Degree in Business.

Big Momma’s, 217 E. Commercial Street.

Big Momma’s Coffee and Espresso Bar proudly celebrates 15 years of being open on Historic Commercial Street and serving the Springfield region.

Customers and friends are invited to a community reception on Wednesday, August 3 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

There will be a brief ceremony at 4:30 p.m and a presentation of community awards. In reflecting on 15 years of existence, CEO Lyle Foster states “ A lot has happened since we opened on C Street in May 2007 and the district is so different from the early days. But one thing has been constant, we have enjoyed the support of some of the greatest customers ever! We are so grateful for how the community has embraced us and given us the privilege to serve.” Big Momma’s will be offering their famous iced coffee for $1.00 the week of July 31-August 6 in appreciation.

Big Momma’s Coffee and Espresso Bar is located at 217 E. Commercial Street. Parking is available in city lots and on the street.

UniteNews Building Empowering Connections | Page 5

Mama G’s Kitchen comes to life at Metro Eats on East Sunshine

With a passion for food and the love of making people happy Gloria Hereford opens Mama G’s Kitchen. by Darline Mabins With nearly half the year left in 2022. We have seen a lot of activity in the area of Soul food restaurants. At least a lot for our community, which is encouraging to see so many stepping up to follow their entrepreneurial dreams.

While she may be the newest restaurant owner, she is not new to the area of the food catering business.

Gloge Hereford’s dream of owning her restaurant has been

with her since she was very young. She began working in the catering business with her mother at the age of 12 at Country Deli Cakes and Catering. There she learned to carve fruit displays and found her love of cooking.

She continued in this field until her mother passed away. This was an extremely difficult time for her and her family. The pain of losing her mother made it more difficult to continue to work in a

WE’RE HIRING Springfield DISTRIBUTION CENTER Gloria Hereford owner of Mama G’s Kitchen

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Page 6 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

BP21561112 WP1 4.75”x5.5”

field where they both loved and shared so much time. So, she left the industry to heal. This lasted for 2 years and she had no plans to return. It wasn’t until a friend called her to ask if she would consider making a fruit display for an event. Gloria said yes and as they say, from there the rest was history. This single act reignited her passion for catering and lead to the start of Lovely Creations.

Lovely Creations is a homebased small business that works with fruit displays and desserts.

Her small business has continued to grow since its inception. With a large social media following Lovely Creations has continued to

grow. This led her to the Farmers Market in Metro Eats on East Sunshine. After a successful year at Metro Eats, the owner approached Gloria about her desire to expand her business model.

With the space needed to start a small restaurant, she jumped on the phone to discuss this offer with her father and older brother.

It took less than an hour for her to accept the offer. She immediately began to work on bringing Mama G’s Kitchen to life. A month later the doors officially opened on Friday, July 8th with her first; Fish Fry Friday (which sold out.).

The recipes are a mix of family,

Continued on page 7

Mama G’s Kitchen Continued from page 6

friends, and her flare. With a passion for food and the love of making people happy. This restaurant owner wants people to come out and experience, “a taste of Lovely” (referencing the Lovely Creations brand).

Gloria is thankful for her family through this journey. When asked who her major supporters were; she gave credit to her best friend, her father, two daughters, and oldest brother. There is support and her love for the work she does is what keeps her going. While following her dream, Gloria continues to work for Chase Bank (7 years of employment) and Wings, Etc. She dreams that in the next 3 years to be able to work full-time in the food industry with her small business and open a storefront of her own.

Stop by Metro Eats Thursday thru Saturday to try a little something new at Mama G’s Kitchen.

Thursdays will have a new menu item; Fridays will continue to host fish as the main entree and Saturdays are reserved for the signature dish “Bowl Train” (a small pan of cornbread topped with Meatloaf, mac and cheese, baked beans, and cabbage/collard greens) which is a crowd favorite.

Don’t forget that as the owner of Lovely Creations, Gloria always has deserts at the ready for her customers. Stop by Metro Eats to say hello to Mama G’s Kitchen owner and staff. Hours are Thursday thru Saturday 3:00 to 8:00 pm located at 2463 W Sunshine Springfield MO 65807.

H. Wes Pratt announces retirement from Missouri State University after 15 years of service

chief diversity officer.

During this time, he expanded diversity training and professional development not only on campus, but also across the city, region and state.

He has been instrumental in offering the Collaborative Diversity Conference and the Facing Racism Institute to larger audiences.

He played a pivotal role in establishing the Student African American Brotherhood’s (SAAB) local chapter, Brother to Brother, in Springfield.

Later, he worked with SAAB

Internal search for an interim diversity officer will begin immediately. by MSU Staff Since H. Wes Pratt took on the role of chief diversity officer/ assistant to the president at Missouri State University in 2016, he has led the institution in improving its culture by focusing on inclusive excellence and valuing the inclusion of diversity.

Inclusive excellence is a core value of the university and an integral component of the last two long range plans.

In June, Pratt announced to the Board of Governors that he will retire from Missouri State Aug. 1, 2022.

“Wes has been a leader of change at Missouri State and in the community as a whole. He has served the students, faculty, and staff, facilitated tough conversations, and fought for progress,” said MSU President Clif Smart.

“We will miss his wisdom and guidance at MSU.” Pratt, appointed by the Supreme Court of the State of Missouri, is a member of the Commission on Racial and Ethnic Fairness (CREF).

Since beginning at MSU in 2007, Pratt has served several roles: • Coordinator of diversity, outreach and recruitment.

• Interim equal opportunity officer.

• Director of institutional equity and compliance/Title IX coordinator/ADA coordinator • Assistant to the president and

H. Wes Pratt

Continued on page 15

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 7

Back-to-School Tips: Make the first day easier for every student Before it’s time to head back to school, here are a few tips to help ensure your kids have a safe, happy and productive year.

Source: American Academy of Pediatrics Remember that you don’t need to wait until the first day of class to ask for help. Schools are open to address any concerns a parent or child might have, including the specific needs of a child, over the summer. The best time to get help might be one to two weeks before school opens.

Many children get nervous about new situations, including changing to a new school, classroom or teacher. This may happen at any age. If your child seems nervous, it can be helpful to rehearse heading into the new situation. Take them to visit the new school or classroom before the first day of school. Remind them that there are probably a lot of students who are uneasy about the first day of school. Teachers

know that students are nervous and will make an extra effort to make sure everyone feels as comfortable as possible. If your child seems nervous, ask them what they are worried about and help them problem-solve ways to master the new situation.

Point out the positive aspects of starting school to help your kids look forward to the first day of class. Talk about how they will see old friends and meet new ones, for example.

Find another child in the neighborhood you child can walk to school or ride with on the bus.

If it is a new school for your child, attend any available orientations and take an opportunity to tour the school before the first day. Bring your child to school a

Page 8 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

few days prior to class to play on the playground and get comfortable in the new environment.

If you feel it is needed, drive your child (or walk with them) to school and pick them up on the first day. Get there early on the first day to cut down on unnecessary stress.

Consider starting your child on their school sleep/wake schedule a week or so ahead of time so that time change is not a factor on their first couple of days at school.

Backpack safety Choose a backpack with wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back.

Organize your child’s backpack to use all of its compartments.

Pack heavier items closest to the center of the back. The backpack should never weigh more than 10% to 20% of your child’s body weight. Go through the pack with your child weekly, and remove unneeded items to keep it light.

Remind your child to always use both shoulder straps. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles.

Adjust the pack so that the bottom sits at your child’s waist.

If your school allows, consider a rolling backpack. This type of backpack may be a good choice for students who must tote a heavy load. Remember that rolling backpacks still must be carried up stairs, they may be difficult to roll in snow, and they may not fit in some lockers. And review backpack safety with your child.

Traveling to & from school Review the basic rules with your student and practice any new routes or modes of transportation:

School Bus Children should always board and exit the bus at locations that provide safe access to the bus or to the school building.

Remind your child to wait for the bus to stop before approaching it from the curb.

Make sure your child walks where they can see the bus driver (which means the driver will be able to see them, too).

Remind your student to look both ways to see that no other traffic is coming before crossing the street, just in case somebody does not stop as required. Encourage your child to actually practice how to cross the street several times before the first day of school.

If the school bus has lap/shoulder seat belts, make sure your child uses one at all times when in the bus. (If your child’s school bus does not have lap/shoulder belts, encourage the school system to buy or lease buses with lap/shoulder belts). See Where We Stand: Safety Restraints on the School Bus for more information. Your child should not move around on the bus.

Check on the school’s policy regarding food on the bus. Eating on the bus can present a problem for students with allergy and also lead to infestations of insects and vermin on the vehicles.

If your child has a chronic condition that could result in an emergency on the bus, make sure you work with the school nurse or other school health personnel to have a bus emergency plan. If possible, do this before the first day of class.

Continued on page 9

Car All passengers should wear a seat belt or use an age- and size-appropriate car seat or booster seat.

Keep your child riding in a car seat with a harness as long as possible and then ride in a belt-positioning booster seat. Your child is ready for a booster seat when they have reached the top weight or height allowed for their seat, their shoulders are above the top harness slots, or her ears have reached the top of the seat.

Your child should ride in a belt-positioning booster seat until the vehicle’s seat belt fits properly (usually when the child reaches about 4’ 9” in height and is between 8 to 12 years of age).

Bike Practice the bike route to school before the first day of school to make sure your child can manage it.

Always wear a bicycle helmet, no matter how short or long the ride.

Ride on the right, in the same direction as auto traffic and ride in bike lanes if they are present.

Use appropriate hand signals.

Respect traffic lights and stop signs.

Know the “rules of the road.”

Walking to school Children are generally ready to start walking to school at 9 to 11 years of age.

Make sure your child’s walk to school is a safe route with welltrained adult crossing guards at every intersection.

Identify other children in the neighborhood with whom your child can walk to school. In neighborhoods with higher levels of traffic, consider organizing a “walking school bus,” in which

an adult accompanies a group of neighborhood children walking to school.

Be realistic about your child’s pedestrian skills. Because small children are impulsive and less cautious around traffic, carefully consider whether or not your child is ready to walk to school without adult supervision. If the route home requires crossing busier streets than your child can reasonably do safely, have an adult, older friend or sibling escort them home.

Eating during the school day Studies show that children who eat a nutritious breakfast function better. They do better in school, and have better concentration and more energy. Some schools provide breakfast for children; if yours does not, make sure they eat a breakfast that contains some protein Most schools regularly send schedules of cafeteria menus home and/or have them posted on the school’s website. With this advance information, you can plan on packing lunch on the days when the main course is one your child prefers not to eat.

Many children qualify for free or reduced price food at school, including breakfast. The forms for these services can be completed at the school office. Hunger will affect a child’s performance in class.

Before & after school child care During early and middle childhood, children need supervision. A responsible adult should be available to get them ready and off to school in the morning and supervise them after school until you return home from work.

If a family member will care for

your child, communicate the need to follow consistent rules set by the parent regarding schedules, discipline and homework.

Children approaching adolescence (11- and 12-year-olds) should not come home to an empty house in the afternoon unless they show unusual maturity for their age.

Develop a sleep routine

Getting enough sleep is critical for a child to be successful in school. Children who do not get enough sleep have difficulty concentrating and learning as well as they can.

Set a consistent bedtime for your child and stick with it every night. Having a bedtime routine that is consistent will help your child settle down and fall asleep.

Components of a calming pre-bedtime routine may involve a bath/

shower, reading with them, and tucking them in and saying goodnight to them.

Build good homework & study habits Create an environment that is homework-friendly starting at a young age. Children need a consistent work space in their bedroom or another part of the home that is quiet, without distractions, and promotes study.

Establish a household rule that the TV and other electronic distractions stay off during homework time.

Some children may need help remembering their assignments. Work with your child and their teacher to develop an appropriate way to keep track of their assignments – such as an assignment notebook.

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Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 9

Your Health & Wellness News

Health Coach, Melesha Bailey

Your Hair Can Reveal So Much About You: Get An Analysis Today A Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis is Accessible, Affordable, and Accurate. by Melesha Bailey Our bodies are amazing. It is a perfect machine with many things happening at the same time. Our hearts beat rhythmi-

cally as every heartbeat creates waves through the body. We breathe in and out automatically as the chest and diaphragm

What To Do After You’re Discharged from a Hospital

Hospital’s social worker will discuss discharge options; How to choose the right option. by Jacqueline Jadidian If you or someone you know has been admitted to a hospital due to an injury or illness, sometimes you’re eligible for rehabilitation after being discharged. Before you’re discharged the hospital’s social worker/discharge planner will

discuss two options; one being the opportunity to stay at a short-term rehabilitation or go home and use home health.

You may ask, what is the difference between the two? Also, why would anyone choose not to go home and use services

Page 10 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

move to their inner song. Our eyes blink and flutter as they take in what it sees from the world.

Our bodies run like a well-oiled machine when all cylinders are working.

Sometimes, the body signals that something is off or may need some help that, if ignored, can lead to problems. We usually go to the doctor looking for answers.

You tell your doctor,” something feels off.” Does your doctor listen to you? Do they ask questions like, what is your diet like, are you getting enough sleep, do you go to the bathroom, are you drinking enough water, do you get air and sunshine? If so, that’s great. Unfortunately, many doctors don’t ask these types of questions. Instead, they may order a urine or blood test. Those tests are good, but they may not reveal what is happening in the body at a cellular level.

That’s where a Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) may

be a better indicator of health. A few strands of hair can tell you a lot about your body with a wealth of information about your past, present, and future health status.

In addition, it’s an economical and precise indicator of the long-term effects of diet, stress, toxic metal exposure, and their impact on the mineral balance that is difficult to obtain through another clinical testing.

Minerals are absolutely critical for life and abundant health. They are involved in and are necessary for metabolism, physical support, the nervous system, muscle activity, and immune function and are crucial to the thyroid and adrenal gland’s activity.

Many factors can affect mineral nutrition, such as food preparation, dietary habits, genetic and metabolic disorders, chronic disease, medications, stress, environmental factors, and exposure to heavy metals. As a result, most Continued on page 11

You may or may not have outin the home versus staying temporarily at another medical of-pocket cost. Ask the hospital’s social worker center?

(SW) to assist you Here is a brief list with which ones of the difference to use, and if your between home insurance covers the health and shortcost. term rehabilitation: • Therapy is pro1. Home health vided only up to 3 comes into your times a week. home and proJacqueline Jadidian 2. Short-term revides therapy and habilitations consist nursing care. The Continued on page 12 service bills your insurance.

Hair Analysis

Continued from page 10 people have multiple nutritional imbalances that contribute to the increased incidence of adverse health conditions.

Your hair can answer questions about your blood sugars, weight, stress, low energy, gut health, and how your body functions. You may have a mineral deficiency if these are a cause for concern.

An HTMA is an easy, non-invasive way to determine how your body functions. Hair is used for mineral testing. During its growth phase, the hair is exposed to the internal environment, such as blood, lymph, and cellular fluids. As the hair grows and reaches the skin’s surface, the outer layers harden and provide a blueprint and record of mineral status and nutritional metabolic activity that coccured over time.

Your health is your most valuable asset, and as we age, we must take care of our health. If you are looking for ways to improve your energy levels, vitality, and overall health, an HTMA can give you some answers.

As a nutritional health coach and owner of Love 4 Life Wellness, use an HTMA to explore what’s going on in your body and to give us a baseline to address simple lifestyle changes that can significantly impact your overall health.

The autonomic nervous system controls all “automatic” body functions, such as breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, sweating, salivating, and food movement through the intestines.

Things are going on that we don’t see, but when one or more of our bodily functions isn’t working correctly, there becomes a problem.

See Special Offer on page 12 Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 11

Special Offer The Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis This Offer includes: • Results call with Our team of coaches • Two (2) Coaching Sessions • Personalized mineral balancing • Supplement checklist • Customized dietary suggestions All for: $247 (Reg. $297)

Go to: love4lifewellness.com or call: Meleasha Bailey at (417)300-2796 Flex Spending and HSA Cards Accepted

Discharge Options Continued from page 10

of in-patient stay. Most of them provide a private room with a private bathroom. Your meals are included as well as 24-7 nursing care and up to 5 days of therapy.

• Short-term rehabs bill your insurance. The hospital SW will ask you to select a few rehabs from a list. He/she will find out which rehabs accept your insurance, and if there will be any out-ofpocket costs.

• In rehabs you have up to 100 days of in-patient care. This necessarily does not mean your insurance will cover all those days or need that many days. It depends on your insurance and the documentation from therapy/ nursing.

• If you have the standard

Medicare insurance, it covers days 1-20 at 100%. On day 21-100, Medicare only covers 80%, which 20% will need to be paid out-ofpocket or your supplemental insurance will cover. If you have a supplemental insurance, it usually covers the remaining days 21-100.

• Medicare allows the rehab to dictate how many days are needed.

• Medicare Replacement Plans (i.e. Humana) dictate how long you will be able to stay in the rehab; they do NOT listen to the therapy/nursing team. Most of the time these plans only pay up to 20 days, and stop coverage on day 21, which leaves the patient having to discharge early or pay out-of-pocket.

• Therefore, the monthly premiums for Medicare Replacement Plans are cheap.

3 Steps to Take Before Going Into Business for Yourself

by Sara Gelsheimer, Inside Success The pandemic forced us to take a long, hard look at what’s important in our lives. With the absence of time-consuming tasks such as preparing for the work-

day and commuting to the office, people had the flexibility to focus on what mattered to them. As the world begins to open back up, many of us hesitate to give up this

Page 12 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

flexibility.

A 2021 report uncovered that 40% of traditionally-employed American workers are considering a transition to self-employment in the next two years. Although entrepreneurialism can provide people with more freedom, there are a few things to consider before becoming self-employed.

Considerations before going into business for yourself Although going into business for yourself provides an exciting opportunity to pursue work you’re truly passionate about, it also comes with a few challenges.

First thing’s first, you’ll have to pay Uncle Sam. W-2 employees are employed through a company and automatically have their taxes deducted from their paychecks.

However, self-employed individuals must set aside a portion of their take-home pay to cover taxes.

On top of that, you’ll also need to pay self-employment taxes.

When you work for a company, you and your employer split So-

cial Security and Medicare taxes.

When you’re working for yourself, however, you’ll be responsible for the full 15.3% tax. Before going into business for yourself, you should have an account set aside to save for these additional expenses.

Next, you’ll need to consider your current company benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average employer paid “78% of medical care premiums for single coverage plans” in 2021, which is a nice perk. If you have a spouse working for a company, you might be able to join their plan. If that’s not an option, you’ll need to get on a health insurance plan for self-employed individuals.

Additionally, many companies offer a retirement plan and match employees’ contributions. That’s free money going toward your retirement that you’ll need to start saving yourself. So before going into business for yourself, you’ll want to explore all the retirement Continued on page 15

When you're ready, we'll be here.

Vaccine Clinic

FIND YOUR COVID-19 VACCINATION OPPORTUNITY AT

VACCINE417.COM Individuals receiving their primary series or first booster dose are automatically eligible for a $50 gift card at the time of vaccination.

Second booster doses are not eligible for the gift card program.

Individuals may not receive more than $150 in gift cards.

Vaccines, booster doses and gift cards are available while supplies last.

TAKE YOUR BEST NEXT STEP Advance your career with an online degree from Evangel University.

FLEXIBLE AND AFFORDABLE

evangel.edu/unite

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 13

(COVID-19) COMMUNITY & PUBLIC HEALTH RESOURCE DIRECTORY Below, please find new and updated community resources and services.

The information is based on research conducted in January 2022 We encourage readers to contact the organization directly for updated information:

NEW INFORMATION

Greene County Emergency Rental Assistance Greene County has coordinated fund distribution efforts with area organizations and community partners that have existing experience with utility and housing assistance programs: • Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation (OACAC) 417-447-0554 • Consumer Credit Counseling Services 417-889-7474 • Community Partnership of the Ozarks 417-888-2020 • Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri 417-268-9998 • Council of Churches of the Ozarks 417-887-3545 • The Salvation Army 417-862-5509 Greene County has structured this program so you can make an appointment with a trusted Community Agency and complete the application together. Contact one of the partnership agencies to schedule an appointment. To make the most of your appointment please bring the following items: • A listing of every individual living in the household • Identifying documentation for all members of the household such as licenses and social security cards • Income information for every individual 18 years or older with either 2020 or 2021 Tax return or past 60 days of income sources that are reported on a tax return • Documentation of unemployment for at least one of the individuals or a reduction in pay due to COVID-19 • Past-due rent and utility bills and/or notices of eviction • A copy of your lease agreement • Contact information for your landlord.

Stimulus Checks (2022 Economic Impact Payments) According to the US Government, parents of newborns, foster or adopted children (2021-2022) will have a stimulus check benefit in 2022. Part of the government help will go to either a new dependent or a parent of a child who was born in 2021.Those who had eligible children in 2021 are able to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their next tax return. The Economic Impact Payments, otherwise referred to as stimulus checks, were sent out during 2021 and these are advance payments of the Recovery Rebate Credit. If you did noy receive the full amount you were expecting by December 31, you can claim the remainder of the money when you submit your taxes in 2022. Given that the 2021 Economic Impact Payments were Page 14 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

calculated off a person’s 2020 or 2019 return, any eligible dependents who became a member of the family in 2021 will not have been included in the calculation nor the payment. For the latest updates on the Economic Impact Payments/Stimulus Checks, check the IRS website: IRS.gov/coronavirus.

2021 Taxes | Voluntary Income Tax Assistance (VITA) VITA offers free tax help to people who generally make $54,000 or less, persons with disabilities, the elderly and limited English taxpayers who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns. If individuals have access to a computer, they can also use the following website, suggested by Community Partnership of the Ozarks, www.myfreetaxes.com. For more information visit https://www.cpozarks.org/financial-literacy/ or call 417-720-2000.

‘Stronger Together’ COVID-19 Vaccine | Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is committed to providing a free COVID-19 vaccination experience to all Missourians, including those without insurance. For Missouri COVID-19 vaccine information, visit www.MOStopsCovid.com. Get the facts about vaccines and where to find one. Everyone ages 5 and up is eligible for vaccination now in Missouri. Vaccination providers may charge an administration fee to insurance, Medicaid, or Medicare, if applicable to an individual’s circumstance.

To learn about vaccine providers in your area and time frames to access the vaccine, please visit https://covidvaccine.mo.gov.

Housing Locator “Socialserve” is a free, online rental property search service that links individuals with available rental housing across Greene, Christian, and Webster counties. It helps to make a more informed decision when exploring your housing options. For more information, visit www.cpozarks.org.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Use the FAFSA form to apply for financial aid for college or graduate school for the 2021-2022 or 2022-2023 academic year. For the 2021-2022 academic year, the FAFSA form must be submitted by 11:59 PM (CT) on June 30, 2022. Any corrections or updates must be submitted by 11:59 PM (CT) on September 10, 2022. The FAFSA form must be submitted by 11:59 PM (CT) on June 30, 2023. Any corrections or updates must be submitted by 11:59 PM (CT) on September 10, 2023. Deadlines are quickly approaching!

Completing the FAFSA form is free. For more information visit: https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa

Additional RESOURCES

More resources listed online at: unitenewsonline.org

Pratt Retires

Continued from page 7 leadership and helped them relocate the organization’s headquarters to the MSU campus.

Community work In the community, Pratt’s also credited with: • Helping to revitalize the local NAACP chapter.

• Establishing The Gathering, a volunteer-led, community-focused group.

• Being the co-founder and president of the Multicultural Business Association (formerly Minorities in Business).

“Wes Pratt is a pillar of our community. His strong voice and clarion call has served as our

collective conscience as well as a guiding light in our constant efforts to make Springfield a welcoming city for all,” said Mayor Ken McClure.

“I congratulate him on his well-deserved retirement and look forward to the next chapter of his life.”

For the work he has done as a public servant, Pratt has been recognized with the 2017 Biz 417 Breakthrough Award and 2016 Men of the Year Honoree

by Springfield Business Journal among many others.

Search for replacement An internal search for an interim chief diversity officer will begin immediately. The interim will serve a one-year term.

Going into Business Continued from page 12

that you’ll need to start saving yourself. So before going into business for yourself, you’ll want to explore all the retirement plans for self-employed workers, such as SIMPLE IRAs, SEP IRAs and Solo 401(k)s.

Finally, working for an employer provides a level of financial stability that takes a long time to build when you’re self-employed.

As a W-2 employee, you know exactly how much you’ll be paid each month, making planning for life’s expenses easier. However, building up finances for self-employed individuals can be difficult, as it can take a while to get

your business up and running.

During that time, you might experience dramatic fluctuations in income that you have to prepare for.

What to do when becoming self-employed So, you’ve looked at your financial situation and considered your company’s benefits, but you still want to work for yourself and pursue your dream job. Good for you! That’s an exciting step toward creating a career you’ll love.

To make the transition simpler, read the following tips: 1. Start saving.

Before becoming self-employed, it’s important to have a...

To continue reading, go to: www.unitenewsonline.org

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Unite News focuses on local, regional and national stories, featuring information informs, connects, and empowers.

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Publishing since 1988. | Website: www.unitenewsonline.org Publishing since 1988. | Website: www.unitenewsonline.org If you are looking for an opportunity to advertise and reach our unique audience, please give us a call at If you are looking for anunitepublication@yahoo.com opportunity to advertise and (417) 864-7444 or email reach our unique audience, please give us a call at Your news leads are always welcomed.

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Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 15

PARK

DAY

Reunion Weekend

EVENT CALENDAR

Sponsored by Springfield Reunion Club, Inc. & Springfield Greene County Parks Theme for 2022 … REUNITED . . . Together Again

Thursday, Aug. 4, 2022: GOLF TOURNAMENT Thursday- Skin Game – Highland Green Saturday- 7:00 am – 2 MAN Scramble – Island Green Sunday- 7:00 am – 2 MAN Best Ball – Deer Lake

Friday, Aug. 5, 2022: HOSPITALITY – OASIS HOTEL & CONV. CENTER - 8:00 P.M. 2542 N. Glenstone - featuring DJ Feddi Adults & 12 & up - $15, ages 4-11 $5 – 3 & under free

Saturday, Aug. 6, 2022: PARK DAY PARADE 12:00 P.M. Sponsored by Ladies Civic League and NAACP Contact Charmaine Huddleston 417-425-9 355 or Michelle Wilson Johnson 417-849-0948

KIDS SWIM – SILVER SPRINGS PARK – 1:00 P.M.- 5:00 P.M. Cost: $1

PARK DAY PICNIC: 1:30 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Everyone is Welcome Silver Springs Park Pavilion

PARK DAY DANCE: Lamplighter North - 9:00 P.M. - 1:00 A.M. 2820 N. Glenstone featuring “ THE FULL FLAVA KINGS “ From Tulsa, OK. Admission $25

Sunday, Aug. 7, 2022

GO TO THE CHURCH OF YOUR CHOICE

PARK DAY GOSPEL PRAISE IN THE PARK – 3:30 P.M. Contact Samuel Timmerman 1-870-882-6696