2023 February Unite

Celebrate Black Brilliance with the African American Read-In series at the SGF/ Greene County Library

Page 4 Panel discussion on the importance of formerly segregated public spaces at Timmons Hall Feb 3

Page 7

Exhibit on Black Educators at the History Museum on the Square Feb 1- May 7

Page 9

Together, Like Heaven: An evening of unity in worship at SOP/COGIC Page 13

Dr. Carmaletta Williams

Leslie Hughes

Melodee Colbert-Kean

Christine Peoples

Freedom Classroom 101 Panel Discussion at Timmons Hall

Minority & Women Contractors

Full Time and Part Time Positions Available

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

One Door

We welcome

• General Contractors

• Sub-contractors covering all residential building trades

Questions? Call(417) 864-1031

Applications are available at: City of Springfield, Planning & Development Dept. Neighborhood Conservation Office 840 N. Boonville, Springfield, MO

Are you without a home, at risk of becoming homeless, do not have a safe stable place to stay or need affordable housing, call 417-225-7499 or visit the Springfield 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. 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/.

Letter to the Editor

1) ________________________ the supersoaker.

Continued from Page 7 to being truly inclusive. Nevertheless, I dream of an inclusive society with mutual respect: something that Americans can be proud of. Above all, I love because of this revelation. “Disagreement does not equal hate.”

2) _______________________ to send people to the mo

3) _______________________ products from peanuts.

There are currently housing vacancies in the City of Springfield’s program for rental or home ownership. These programs include requirements for fair marketing and non-discrimination.

You must be income eligible to qualify.

For rental, call Marti Fewell. 417-864-1039

For home ownership, call LeeAnn Camey, 417-888-2020

4) ________________________ was the first Black woman to hold a pilot's license. Answers:

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.

Delphine and her friends usually ride their bikes in the Mardi Gras Parade. But the top prize is for the best float and Delphine believes she must win. Read how her friends show that winning isn't everything.

1) Lonnie Johnson

2) Mary Jackson

3) George Washington Carver

4) Bessie Colman

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

The precursor to Black History Month was created in 1926 in the United States when historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH) announced the second week of February to be “Negro History Week.” This week was chosen because it coincided with the birthday of Abraham Lincoln on February 12 and that of Frederick Douglass on February 14, both of which dates Black communities had celebrated together since the late 19th century.

In this issue, we cover the second series of Freedom Classroom 101 presented by Christine Peoples at Timmons Hall. The community is invited to a Greet and Meet at Drury University. Join the African American Read-In to Celebrate Black Brilliance with your favorite storytime librarians in February at your neighborhood library. The History Museum on the Square will celebrate black educators who were community cornerstones before desegregation. We also recap the evening of unity in worship that took place last month at Sanctuary of Praise, COGIC, titled, “Together, Like Heaven” and much more.

As always, if you have news or information you would like us to consider writing about, email or give us a call. Your news leads and stories are always welcome. We hope you enjoy our February issue and join us in celebrating Black History Month.

Best,

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

CREATIVE TEAM

GRAPHIC DESIGN, Bradley Knox

WEB DEVELOPER, Christopher Palma

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

Correction: The article titled,”Drury University’s bookstore has broadened its selection of hair care products,” by Jack McGee in our Jan 2023 issue should have been credited to the Springfield Daily Citizen. sgfcitizen.org

Brentwood Chapel - University Chapel

Crematory - Columbarium

Brentwood Chapel - University Chapel Crematory - Columbarium

Brentwood Chapel - University Chapel

Celebrate Black Brilliance with the African American Read-In series at the Library

Come join us to Celebrate Black Brilliance with your favorite storytime librarians in February at your neighborhood branch. This African American Read-In series of Racing to Read storytimes focuses on books by Black authors and illustrators. Here’s a sample; the complete schedule is at thelibrary.org/programs.

SELECTED FUNERAL HOMES Independent

Licensed Funeral Directors of Distinction

• Thursday, Feb. 16, 10 a.m., infants-age 6 Midtown Carnegie Branch

SELECTED FUNERAL HOMES Independent

• Tuesday, Feb. 21, 10 a.m. for infants-36 months, Library Station Story Hour Room

®

®

SELECTED FUNERAL HOMES Independent

®

• Tuesday, Feb. 21, 11:15 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. infants-age 6, Library Station Story Hour Room

W. Bruce Howell · Robert J. Lohmeyer · Don R. Lohmeyer · Heather K. Howell · Clint W. Mease

Licensed Funeral Directors of Distinction

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

W. Bruce Howell · Robert J. Lohmeyer · Don R. Lohmeyer · Heather K. Howell · Clint W. Mease

• Friday, Feb. 24, 10 a.m., for infants-36 months, and 11:15 a.m. for infants-age 6, Library Station Story Hour Room

•••

Angela N. Collins · Harley R. Williams · Andy D. Vowell · Dulcinea M. Lane

Angela N. Collins · Harley R. Williams · Andy D. Vowell · Dulcinea M. Lane

Nichole E. Bauer · Barbara A. Hinds · Angie Howell Larsen

1947 E. Seminole · 886-9994 · GormanScharpf.com

Nichole E. Bauer · Barbara A. Hinds · Angie Howell Larsen

Nichole E. Bauer · Barbara A. Hinds · Angie Howell Larsen

1947 E. Seminole · 886-9994 · GormanScharpf.com

Locally owned and operated for over 70 years

1947 E. Seminole · 886-9994 · GormanScharpf.com

Locally owned and operated for over 70 years

Locally owned and operated for over 70 years

The iPhone Class for Seniors continues from 10 a.m.-noon Thursday, Feb. 23 and Thursday, March 9 at the Schweitzer Brentwood Branch. Older adults wanting to get more out of their iPhone or iPad can join free classes taught by instructor Julie Mahaffey. Registration not required.

•••

Stay active, alert and keep your keys. That’s the message of the program at 2 p.m. Thursday Feb. 23, at the Schweitzer Brentwood Branch. Amber Allen, with the University of Missouri Extension, will discuss how to stay medically and physically fit to drive, and other resources to help keep you safe on the road.

•••

Teen Night is Gaming Night on Friday, March 3, 6-7:30 p.m. for grades 6-12 in the Library Station Frisco Room. Get your game on with board and video games on the first Friday of each month.

•••

Monday, March 13, kicks off Poké-Week in the Library Station Frisco Room from 2-4 p.m. for grade K-6. Stop by during spring break for a different Pokémon-themed activity each day. This day is Pokémon Crafternoon. Make your own monster cards and other crafts. Materials will be provided.

On Tuesday, March 14, it’s Introduction to Cricut: Vinyl Stickers from 2-4 p.m. in the Maker Space, Midtown Carnegie Branch Library. Use the Cricut Design Space to create and make a sticker that you can place on your car, laptop or tumbler. Library staff will teach you how to create or upload your very own design to make a unique sticker. Materials will be provided. Youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration starts March 1; call 417-837-5011.

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

Mimi’s Soulfood wins Mac & Cheese Contest

Community News

People In The News

Springfield, MO—In January, all the cheesy, creamy delicious mac & cheese you can dream of was under one roof at Relics Event Center at the 3rd Annual Missouri Mac & Cheese Fest. In addition to delicious mac & cheese sampling, some were lucky enough to rub “elbows” with the Mac & Cheese Queen and King!

Mimi’s Soulfood Mac & Cheese won first place in the “Classic” category and second place in the “Out-of-the-box” category. Proceeds from the event benefited OACAC, helping alleviate the causes and conditions of poverty in Southwest Missouri. OACAC serves people of all ages in rural and urban areas with proven programs and innovative projects to empower people and enrich communities.

by Samuel Knox, Unite Staff Writer

Springfield, MO—From time to time the Unite News staff will come across a person who has been recognized for their oustanding achievements. In January 2023, we learned that Jasmine Hutchinson was awarded Co-worker of the month at Mercy Neuroscience. She was nominated by her co-workers who said, “Jasmine is an asset to any team she works on, but especially for Pain

Management. She goes above and beyond to ensure the clinic runs smoothly, facilitating communication between staff, physicians and patients. Her amazing customer service abilities ensure that the patients have the best experience possible. With Jasmine’s infectious laugh and bubbly personality, she is a joy to be around. Her love for the people around

her is obvious in her daily interactions, whether she’s making jokes or simply asking about your day. Jasmine has helped improve the clinic, but she’s also made us a better team.

Jasmine Hutchinson is a Master Scheduler at Mercy Hospital. She has been employed there for 4 years. Congratulation Jasmine — job well done!

Jasmine Hutchinson standing with co-worker at Mercy Neuroscience Department

Jasmine Hutchinson

Octavius and Tonisha Manier

Learning from the past to ensure a better future

by Gwen Marshall, SPS

Springfield, MO— On Monday January 16th in Springfield, Missouri we celebrated Dr. Martin Luther King’s 94th birthday.

As our young people marched in Springfield’s MLK Day March, I wondered what they were thinking. I wondered if they understood that the main aim of the civil rights movement was to give everybody equal rights regardless of skin color, gender, nationality, religion, disability or age. I wondered if they were aware that young people like themselves had marched in Birmingham, Alabama in 1963. If they knew the names of

the many young people that were involved in bringing desegregation and the freedoms we now enjoy to pass in the United States. I wondered if they were aware of the obstacles and dangers they encountered as they stood and fought for freedom. If they knew names like Freeman Hrabowski who was 12 years old when he was inspired to march in the Birmingham Children’s Crusade of 1963. Marilyn Luper Hildreth was 10 years old when she suggested that her NAACP youth group have a sit in at Katz Drug Store. Her protest led to the desegregation of the drug store’s lunch counter in Oklahoma City. Similar reflections about young people in

UPCOMING EVENTS AT TIMMONS HALL

Freedom Classroom 101 – Saturday School: Reaching out to Diverse Educators

Sat., March 11 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

D esigned for educators, churches and youth leaders to learn how Timmons Hall, Silver Springs Park and Alberta Ellis help frame sustainable place-based education through student lab sites and passport experiences. Topics may cover summer learning, life skills, identity and community awareness gaps, for teaching from 5th grade to college freshmen.

Register by Feb. 23

Age: 18 yrs. and up

Fee: $30/Person Alberta Ellis

the freedom struggle are available in various collections in the Library.

It is necessary that we teach our young people the importance of civil rights for all and that in our multi-cultural society that every person is important regardless of race. How can we instill in our young people a deep-rooted trust in compassion, equality and kindness, despite the problems they might see in the world? It is important that they realize that the struggle for equality has not ended but is very much alive.

Here are a few suggestions from the author Jennifer Gafford that might be helpful: Teach them history. Help them to see the result of inequality, read stories of the past, and share resources about celebrations and holidays. Exploring historical viewpoints is an excellent opportunity for your child to understand others’ points of view, and become acquainted with more than one perspective.

Share current events. There are ongoing events that may catch your child’s attention and increase their passion seeing change in the world. If they like animals, talk to them about endangered wildlife and environmental care. If they are learning about Native

Americans in school, teach them about problems that many Native Americans face in their educational systems. It’s essential to be honest with your students and also sensitive to their ability to handle the content.

Use children’s literature. Whether the literature is about people who are different than they are, an affirmation of who they are, or one that shares stories of people who stood up to injustice, reading books is an excellent way to address equality for all.

Teach your students to stand up for someone that is having a problem, but teach them likewise, to be concerned about the person causing the problem. We don’t need to be champion fighters to be great advocates for peace. Teach your students about modern heroes who are fighting for equality and showing kindness. Teach them to act justly and to love mercy, and that it is never too late to do what is right.

It is essential that adults’ model positive examples for their students. Do not give them the idea that we should be “colorblind” to racial differences or tell them to be quiet when they notice someone with a disability. We want to encourage them to honor people’s identities without judging or discriminating based on differences. Teaching our students that their voices are influential is a lasting way to help them to understand that they have the power, love, and ability to change the world.

Remember during Black History month we are standing on the shoulders of those that believed in Liberty and Justice for all.

Up Coming Events:

Presidents Day: February 21, 2023 (School System Closed)

Gwen Marshall, SPS

Timmons Hall will host Freedom Classroom 101 Panel Discussion

by Samuel Knox, Unite Staff Writer

Springfield, MO— Take part in a moderated panel discussion on the importance of formerly segregated public spaces. The topics of discussion will include, intentional black archival space, parkbased events and self-care and art in public settings. The event will be Friday, February 3, 2023 from 11:30 - 1:00 pm at Timmons Hall located in the historic Silver Springs Park.

The Freedom Classroom 101 workshop series is designed to help teach and implement African American studies through PlaceBased Education. Each workshop is specifically designed to help teachers research, rethink and reimagine how they teach African American studies to benefit the classroom and the larger community. Panelist include Dr. Carmaletta Williams, Melodee Colbert Kean and Leslie Hughes.

Dr. Carmaletta Williams is the CEO of the Black Archives of Mid America in Kansas City. The mission of the Black Archives of Mid-America in Kansas City, Inc is to collect, preserve and make available to the public materials documenting the social, economic, political, and cultural histories of persons of African American descent in the central United States, with particular emphasis in the Kansas City, Missouri region. The Black Archives of Mid America, Inc. was founded in 1974 by Horace M. Peterson III.

After Dr. Williams retired from Johnson County Community

College after 28 yrs., she went to China and taught at Central China Normal University for a year and opened a publishing house with her son. She received a call requesting her to come and run the Black Archives. It took some persuading, but Dr. Williams fell in love with the space that is located in the 18th and Vine District in Kansas City, MO.

Melodee Colbert-Kean served 7 years as a Joplin Mo, city council member, including 2 years as mayor during the recovery period of the 2011 Joplin tornado. During her 14 years as a history-making elected public servant, she has given her time, dedication and focus to her Joplin community, and traveled the world sharing best practices and insight she gained from helping lead Joplin through a crisis.

Melodee also serves as a board member for numerous organizations, including Boys and Girls Club of SW Mo., Connect 2 Culture, Downtown Joplin Association, the Joplin Chamber of Commerce, and the Missouri’s Women’s Council. She is often a panel guest contributor or speaker for many events seeking leadership, communication, business relationships and empowerment experiences.

Having ‘retired” from official capacity as a City of Joplin council member in June 2020, Melodee spends time running her restaurant Me’s Place, enjoying her family, co-hosting her FB Live show Colbert Connection, and working as a Realtor with Keller Williams.

Leslie Hughes, is the Founder of

Frizzy by Nature and host of Frizz Fest in St Louis.

Frizzy by Nature is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization that encourages self-love and inspires confidence among women while hosting events and providing resources that support them on their journey. She advocates, “Spaces and environments are created where black women and black people feel safe, seen, and celebrated as their natural selves.” Ms. Hughes is born and raised in St. Louis, MO.

She also advocates the importance of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Under the direction of Leslie Hughes Frizz Fest, a natural beauty festival is hosted annually at Tower Grove Park in St Louis Missouri. 2022 marked the 5th year for the festival.

Leslie states. “Being able to impact and support the community in which I live and love so dearly, is such an amazing feeling. Black women deserve to feel safe, seen, and celebrated and it’s my mission to create those spaces and aid in providing resources that do just that.”

Seating is limited at Timmons Hall. If you missed the January

registration, the event will be streamed on SGF City View. Go to: https://livestream.com/ sgfcityview/freedomclassroom101 Freedom Classroom 101

&

Greet Mixer will be held at Drury University, Judy Thompson Executive Conference Center located on Drury Lane and Bob Barker Boulevard, Springfield, MO from 5:30 -7:30 pm Admission is free.

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 opportnities. It is owned and operated by the Park Board and under the direction of Christine Peoples, Coordinator of Timmons Hall.

Dr. Carmaletta Williams

Leslie Hughes

Melodee Colbert-Kean

Christine Peoples

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.

and opportunities available in the Springfield/Greene County area. Distribution of Unite. is by free circulation at various locations. However, request for home delivery by mail may be directed to Unite. P. O. Box 1745, Springfield, Missouri 65801 and accompanied by $25. for one year’s postage and handling.

Those wishing to make a contribution or become a monthly sponsor should direct correspondence to the same address. Reader’s comments and questions are welcomed. The opinions expressed in these pages do not necessarily reflect the views of Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc.

Airport Concessionaire Small Disadvantaged Business (ACDBE)

Certification is in Springfield

“The Unite Publication in accepting advertising in this publication, makes no independent investigation concerning the services of products advertised and neither endorses nor recommends the same and assumes no liability therefore.”

For further information, you can contact us at (417) 864-7444. Email: unitepublication@yahoo.com

by Allen Waldo, MO PTAC Counselor

Springfield, MO—

As a minority and/or a woman owned business that sells goods and/or services, and if you have an interest in becoming a government contractor, one socio-economic certification that you may want to consider applying for is the Airport Concessionaire Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE). This is for minority and/ or woman owned companies that offer various products and services to sell either as a subcontractor or to an airport directly as a prime contractor. Many airports have specific ACDBE goals and they actively encourage their prime contractors to work with ACDBE’s as subs. For example, most if not all rental car companies at any airport will be large businesses (i.e. Hertz, Enterprise, Budget). However a company that is certified as an ACDBE could be subcontracted by the rental car company for various services including: Preparation of the vehicles between rental customers; or, Providing janitorial services to clean the rental car offices.

Make A Contribution Today!

(not great but improved) of selling your product at the airport in the retail shops. Obviously, your product would have to be one that would make business sense for the large retailer to sell as ultimately it is their decision.

If you would like to make a contribution to the Unite News Publication and it’s mission, please mail your gift to Unite, P.O. Box 1745, Springfield, MO 65801 or contact our office at (417) 864-7444.

“Let’s build a stronger community together.”

As another example, many of the airport retail shops are large businesses (i.e. Hudson News). If you as a business owner who produces a product that could be accepted for retail sales including items such as clothing, candy, “keepsakes”, or snacks, and you are certified as an ACDBE, there is an improved chance

As for applying for the certification, the application process in Missouri must be approved through one of the two major international airports: St. Louis (Lambert) or Kansas City (KCI). Both airports offer an electronic system for completing and uploading the required documents. You as the business owner would still have to meet the social and economic criteria for this certification. The criteria can be found at this website: https:// www.transportation.gov/civil-rights/ disadvantaged-business-enterprise/ eligibility

- Samuel Knox Managing Editor

In a “nutshell”, in order to be socially disadvantaged, the guidelines from the US Department of Transportation are as follows: “….including women, Black Americans, Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, Asian-Pacific Americans, Subcontinent Asian-Pacific Americans, or other minorities found to be disadvantaged by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).” If you qualify as being socially disadvantaged, the economic disadvantage threshold is a net financial worth of less than $1.32 million. This threshold does not include the value of the business or the equity in your primary residence.

In the preparation work for this arti-

Continued on page 12

Allen Waldo

SGF Juneteenth: A city-wide collaborative holiday celebration

by Darline Mabins, Unite Contributing Writer

Springfield, MO—

As the month of January has come to an end. We remember the accomplishments, of Dr. Martin Luther King and look forward towards the month of February. February is not just considered by most to be the final month of winter. It is also Black History month. An annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a month that is set aside to recognize their central role in U.S. History. I have to say, that I remember this month throughout my academic career, as being a time where I learned of Martin Luther King, Rosa Parks, Malcolm X and many other significant figures in history. However, I don’t remember learning about Juneteenth. I have to say, that my first-time hearing of Juneteenth was my senior year of college. College in, Springfield Missouri and I grew up in Kansas City Missouri…

September 22, 1862- President Abraham Lincoln announced the Emancipation Proclamation and issued it on January 1,1863 when the nation was approaching its third year of a civil war. The proclamation declared, “that all persons held as slaves” within the rebellious states are, and  henceforward shall be free.”

Despite the expansive language, the proclamation was limited in many ways and did not end slavery in the nation. It did capture the hopes of many and changed the character of the war.

The Proclamation also announced the acceptance of black men into the Union Army and Navy, enabling those freed to become liberators. It’s estimated that by the end of the war almost 200,000 black soldiers and sailors had fought for the Union and freedom.

Fast forward to April 9th 1865, General Robert E Lee and the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia surrendered to Lt. General Ulysses S. Grant through an exchange of two short letters. The terms of the surrender was that the Confederates would be paroled after surrendering their weapons and other military property. If the surrendered soldiers did not take up arms again, the United States government would not prosecute them. This was thought to be the end of the war by many. Yet further south, the war waged on in Texas and in the Southwest.

June 19th, 1865, Union Army General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas and demanded that the states 250,000 plus enslaved people be set free.   Granger read aloud, General Order No. 3: The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and hired labor. The freedmen are advised to remain quietly at their present homes and work for wages.”

Juneteenth marks the end of the military effort to maintain slavery and the beginning of the path towards true freedom. It celebrates the “absolute equality of personal rights,” that were gained by freed men, women and children. The ability to pursue the American dream, “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” and so much more.

For me, it marked the end of military efforts and the beginning of diplomatic efforts, that took shape in the form of advocacy and activism, among many other forms, as this nation worked towards, true freedom for African Americans. The work continues to this day, as we work towards

equity in our community.

I look forward to Juneteenth because freedom is something that should be celebrated as a community. This year, the NAACP is collaborating with community members and leaders to hold a weekend long Juneteenth Celebration. It’s a time to celebrate those that came before us and paved the way for so many of us today. A time to celebrate the richness of the cultures that make up our diverse landscape. It may not be abundant diversity, yet; but it is always worth celebrating. I hope you will celebrate with us as a community, this year and many more years to come.

Experience the enlightening story of Springfield’s Black educational history and its connection to a national conversation.

The exhibit is displayed at the History Museum on the Square, 154 Park Central Square.

Community Cornerstones: Springfield’s Black Educators showcases the rich history of Black American education in Springfield through the lens of the educators who were the cornerstones of the Black community before desegregation.

Community Cornerstones: Springfield’s Black Educators – February 1,- May 7, 2023

Photo is courtesy of History Museum on the Square

Darline Mabins

Your Health & Wellness News

Slow Down and Enjoy Every Moment of Life

by Melesha Bailey

Springfield, MO— Life can sometimes feel like a blur. We run around wearing many hats. You may be the caretaker of your family or a business owner, have a demanding career, or be a community worker. Many find themselves (me included) at the end of the day, wondering where their day went. I know that if we don’t slow down, life will throw us a curve ball and make us slow down. The pandemic did just that. It made us slow down, rest, and take a break from the hustle and bustle of life.

Many have found themselves in that same boat again, going from this to that without taking a breath. We are exhausted and depleted, and our brain feels like it can’t hold another thing, and it is just the beginning of a new year.   Many resources are available

to simplify tasks that help us accomplish things quickly, yet our to-do lists have never been longer. Life is short, and time flies, especially in today’s fastpaced world. It’s time to slow down and enjoy every moment of life so that you won’t feel like life has passed before your eyes. Slowing life down is more than a luxury; keeping yourself from spiraling out of control is often necessary.

Slow down and enjoy every moment of life—seven tips to slow down your day.

1. Focus on your daily objectives: Concentrate on the essential tasks. It will eliminate the stress of trying to accomplish everything at once.

2. Cut out social media and internet time. Technology has become a significant part of our lives. Unfortunately, email and surfing the web hinder our

Believe or Not Believe Someone with Dementia

by Jacqueline Jadidian

Springfield, MO— Working in healthcare for 15 years I have had a lot of encounters and firsthand experience of directly and indirectly working with people that had/have dementia. One of the learning curves that I had to learn early on as an administrator in long-term care was when to believe someone with Alzheimer’s

that voiced a concern, and how to distinguish during the investigation reality and facts versus their “reality”.

Any healthcare organization/ agency that is responsible in some way of taking care of patients with dementia must do a diligent job of investigating whenever a person with the disease voices concern of any form of abuse/harassment/ neglect/retaliation. I have noticed

ability to focus. Reduce these time suckers and use that time to explore new hobbies, exercise, or meditate.

3. Eat slower. Do you speed through your meal? You are missing the chance to appreciate food’s textures and flavors. Chew slower, enjoy your food, and experience the food’s smell, taste, and texture.

4. Sit for a moment before starting your computer. Those moments of quieting your mind can set the tone for the rest of your day. Close your eyes and take some deep breaths before jumping into your work.

5. Get out and enjoy nature. Take a 5-10 minute break to step outside and breathe fresh air. Leave the phone behind, unplug

that healthcare professionals sometimes brush aside concerns voiced by a person with dementia, especially if the disease is progressed. Sometimes these professionals tend to get into a rut of thinking the person with the disease is making up the story or embellishing what is factual. As a family member, caregiver, and ex-administrator I have always pushed for every person that has the disease

for a few moments, and admire the beauty and sounds of nature.

6. Give yourself more time. Do you stick to a tight schedule and plan every aspect of your day? Next time you write in your planner, factor in a few extra minutes to complete your task. Doing this will help you not to feel rushed.

7.Remember your goals and aspirations. Each morning when you wake up, take a few moments to think about your life goals and aspirations. Recall the milestones you’ve already reached and your drive to achieve new ones. Try doing this for five minutes before getting out of bed to start your day. It will make a big difference in your day.

Continued on page 11

to be taken seriously, and to complete a thorough investigation as I would with any other person that did not have the disease.

Don’t get me wrong, there are many times that the complaint is not substantiated. However, the outcome of those unsubstantiated investigations led to discussion for improvement of care either by the healthcare

Continued on page 11

Melesha Bailey

Jacqueline Jadidian

Prevention

Enjoy Life

Continued from page 10

continued from page 10

The better you own your time, the better you will be able to manage the flow of your life while maintaining your health and well-being. So let’s be “Healthy, Happy, and Free in 2023.

Here are some easy things you can do NOW to help prevent lifestyle diseases:

1. Choosing a diet consisting of whole, unrefined plants and minimally processed foods. Eating more plant-based helps prevent heart disease and cancer risk.

Dementia

continued from page 10

workers, the spouse, family caregivers, etc. Caregiver burnout is very real and not discussed enough with families. Sometimes the caregivers that are close to the patients do not realize at

2. Physical activity and movement help all your body’s internal organs and mind. Most experts recommend that a consistent 30 minutes of moderate physical activity five days a week will make a significant difference.

times that their non-verbals have such an impact on the person that has the disease. The person may interpret the caregiver’s non-verbals as anger, impatience, frustration, and even neglectful towards them. The person with the disease may voice concern of that caregiver though may embellish the facts because in their mind their reasoning is not present. Now, if a healthcare professional overlooked their complaint and thought their concern was nothing to be discussed or investigated, then the professional has missed the opportunity to teach the caregiver about signs of burnout and being cognizant of non-verbals.

3. Good sleep is essential. Aim to get seven to nine hours of sleep each night. No matter how busy your life is, having a consist-

ent bedtime and wake time, even on the weekends, helps.

4. Control stress. Chronic stress wrecks your immune system. Instead, try mindfulness, meditation, and gratitude to relieve stress to improve your physical and mental health.

is something that us healthcare professionals should never be nonchalant about. Even if the disease is progressed, an inves

health now before it’s too late. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

tigation and discussion must still be completed. There are always learning opportunities in every situation.

3. If you’re taking more than 4 prescribed medications, it would be best to schedule an appointment with your physician to review your med list and make sure they will not affect your cognition

5. Social connections, and loving people, keeps you emotionally and physically healthy. Although physical distancing is becoming a usual way of life, virtual relationships can be transformative.

To believe or not to believe someone with dementia

You don’t want to get sick if you can prevent it. Sickness affects your finances, time with your family, and the ability to do the things you love. Taking care of yourself NOW reduces the risk of diseases, disabilities, and death. Don’t be like millions of people, including myself, and turn a blind eye. Take care of your

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

Enroll in the Neighboring 101

Enroll in the Neighboring 101

Online series with access to all past class videos. Find Neighboring 101 at http://extension.missouri.edu or email David Burton at burtond@missouri.edu

on a hot stove burner, electrical fire, while smoking dropping the cigarette on self and/or in home, smoke detectors not working properly, unsupervised lit candles, fireplace not having a

Online series with access to all past class videos. Find Neighboring 101 at http://extension.missouri.edu or email David Burton at burtond@missouri.edu

4. Specific potential causes: loose rugs, shower floor or any bare floor getting wet, not wearing rubber sole or non-slip footwear, having to bend over or reach high for items, not using your assistive device correctly (walker or cane), bed level is too high or too low, not having your nightstand closer to your bed, stairs, the toilet is too low. Sometimes things are inevitable and out of our control where we must move into a senior living community; however, there are practical ways, like the list above to prolong that decision.

Vaccine Clinic

The Color Purple Musical plays at the Historic Fox Theatre

Springfield, MO—This triumphant musical adaptation of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of human fortitude, redemption, and love tells the story of a teenage Celie, torn from her beloved sister and forced into an abusive marriage. Over the next forty years, while Celie encounters repression, despair, and heartbreak, she also discovers hope in a group of friends who inspire her to find her voice, discover her beauty and change her life. Nominated for 11 Tony Awards® and featuring a soaring score of jazz, gospel,

blues and ragtime, The Color Purple brilliantly illuminates the lives of Southern Black women in breathtaking scope. Contains adult content and language. Southwest Missouri premiere.

•••

Dates are February 10-12, 16-19, 23-26, 2023. Evenings at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2:00 pm The Historic Fox Theatre, 157 Park Central Square

A post-show discussion with members of the cast and creative team will be held following the Thursday, February 16 and Sun-

day, February, a total of 19 performances in all.

Co-Presented with Mosaic Arts Collective and The Springfield Contemporary Theatre.

Based on the Novel Written by Alice Walker and the Warner Bros./Amblin Entertainment

Motion Picture

Book by Marsha Norman

Music and Lyrics by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis and Stephen Bray Directed by Nki Calloway, Music Supervised by Alex Huff Associate Directed & Choreographed by Amanda Snead

Airport

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article, contact was made with Joy Latimer, Airport Attorney, of the Springfield Branson National Airport (SGF). Ms. Latimer did confirm the goals for SGF as being 0.4% for rental car companies and non-car rental concessions as being 2.7%. These are their goals until September 30, 2024. She does recommend establishing a business relationship with a concessionaire before seeking ACDBE certification. Ms. Latimer does encourage contact with her office to discuss specifics regarding SGF. She can be contacted at JLatimer@flyspringfield.com.

If you are interested in learning more about this overall ACDBE program, I would recommend visiting this website: https:// www.faa.gov/about/office_org/

The Color Purple Cast LaComa Bass, Legend Brooks, Leesa Chambers, Bekki Coker, Dorian E. DeHart, Lyle Q. Foster, DeAyra Hairston, Linda Hale, Brecka Henderson, Mikil Hernandez, Derrick DeVonne King, Jamar Johnson, Samari Johnson, Lavelle Johnston, Najee Lee, Dominique Lowe, Jasmine Martin, Imaney Mwiula, Peace Ndem, Eli Roberts, Kyler Sherman-Wilkins, Sade O. Shine, Adora Lorae Snead, Grace Stafford, Kiva R. Stevens, Nicia Ward and Kendall Wells

headquarters_offices/acr/bus_ ent_program If after researching this program you as a business owner decide to pursue this certification, the Missouri Procurement Technical Assistance Center (MO PTAC) (recent name change to Missouri APEX Accelerator) is ready to discuss this certification, the necessary steps to apply for it, and if it makes sense to apply, the assistance with submitting the application. MO PTAC/APEX Accelerator services are at no cost as we are funded by the Department of Defense and the University of Missouri Extension. Feel free to contact me (Allen Waldo) at waldoaj@missouri.edu.

Article authored by Allen Waldo Counselor, Missouri Procurement Technical Assistance Center / Missouri APEX Accelerator

Together, Like Heaven: An evening of unity in worship

Springfield, MO— On January 15th, a unified worship service was hosted by Sanctuary of Praise, COGIC. An event with guests made up from surrounding black congregations and Central Assembly, one of the larger and predomately white congregations in Springfield.

Coordinator, Pastor TJ Appleby said, “the joint worship service was an opportunity for black and white men and women to come together in the presence of Almighty God to worship him inSpirit and Truth.” The theme was “Together, Like Heaven.”

“How can we expect to worship together in heaven when we can’t first figure out how to worship together here on earth?”

There were about 500 people in attendance at the event that included a 9 minute video on the Rev. Dr. Martin L King, several inspiring messages from area ministers and a combined group of singers from Central Assembly and Sanctuary of Praise.

Unified worship service at Sanctuary of Praise, COGIC

Pastor TJ Appleby

John Rudolph Hatcher was born February 8, 1928, in New Madrid, Missouri. He was the only child of John Rufus Hatcher and Adeline Riley Hatcher. After having passed the 8th grade examination early he moved to Cape Girardeau, Missouri to live with his aunt, Mable Riley, in order to attend the high school there. At the age of 15 years old he graduated from high school and was admitted to Howard University in Washington, D.C. where he completed his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees. In 1949 he was accepted into the Ph.D. program at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. Although he completed the requirements for his Ph.D. in 1952, his degree was not conferred on him because of the racial climate at the time.

Before beginning his teaching career John traveled across the Atlantic Ocean to bicycle through part of Norway and was interviewed on a Norwegian radio program. He was an accomplished musician; he played the piano and the saxophone. He would practice for hours to perfect some of his

In Loving Memory

classical favorites like Clair de Lune by Debussy and Malaguena by Ernesto Lecuona. He also enjoyed playing hymns and popular songs of the 1950’s, 1960’s and 1970’s. He liked swimming, diving and of course having a big garden where he would grow enough vegetables and fruits for the entire neighborhood.

In 1952 John took his first teaching position at Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee. On October 10th of that same year he married his childhood friend Linetta Amanda Glass. They purchased their first house in Nashville and lived there for two years. Then they moved to California where he was certified in an Applied Mathematics Program at Stanford University. He then worked for an aviation company as an engineer but missed teaching. They moved to Los Angeles, where he enrolled in the Ph.D. program at the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA). While studying at UCLA he taught math at California State University, Northridge. In 1959 their only child, Sylvia Valene Hatcher was born. While in Los Angeles they hosted pool parties, and he played minor league baseball. John was awarded his Ph.D. in Mathematics in 1968 from UCLA.

In 1969, Dr. John R. Hatcher broke the racial barrier as the first African American professor at Southwest Missouri State University, now Missouri State University, in Springfield, Missouri. He used his knowledge of baseball as a coach for the South Haven Baptist Church Girls Softball Team in

the mid-1970’s. He retired from SMSU in 1987 but he did not stop teaching. In 1989-1990 he taught at Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota as a Benedict Distinguished Visiting Professor. He also was a Visiting Professor Emeritus at the Missouri University of Science and Technology, known as the University of Missouri – Rolla at the time. Throughout his career and retirement Dr. Hatcher published several articles in various journals of the American Mathematical Society. He continued to do research until shortly before his death on November 26, 2022; he was 94 years old. He is survived by his wife of 70 years: Linetta Amanda Glass Hatcher, his daughter and her husband: Phillip and Sylvia Smith, his grandchildren and their spouses: Gerald and Dominique Bargaineer and John-Rudolph and Madison Smith, his great-grandchildren: Gerald Anthony Bargaineer III, Giovanna Arielle Bargaineer and Khari Hatcher Smith, many relatives, neighbors, colleagues and friends.

peacefully in his home on January 8th, 2023, after a long battle with colon cancer. D.C. was born on March 18, 1932, to Allen and Alberta Fitz Dean in Jackson County, Arkansas. After graduating from Lincoln High, D.C. met Barbara Ingram and they wed in 1959. To that union, 3 children were born, Patricia (Toney) Burton, Durell (Rita) Dean and Adrian (Kimberly) Dean.  D.C. worked at Terrell-Phelps Chevrolet, RC Cola bottling company, The Greene County Sheriff’s Department, and retired from Sherwin Williams paint company.

D.C. held many influential positions such as being a Golden Glove champion boxer and coached many champions at The Boy’s Club. He also was a longtime member of The Springfield Sertoma Club, where he served countless years at events like the Chili Cookoff and Wing-a-palooza. D.C. was mostly well known for taking over as the cook at Rudy’s BBQ at the Ozark Empire Fair after Rudy Ingram passed away. Though D.C. quit smoking cigars years ago, he continued smoking the meat until closing Rudy’s BBQ’s doors in 2017.

In his spare time, D.C. enjoyed playing and coaching baseball/ softball, fishing, bowling, attending NASCAR races, and spending time with family and friends. D.C. confessed his faith in Jesus Christ at Gibson Chapel, where he was an active member until he was no longer able to attend.

Dekoven D.C. Dean, 90, of Springfield, Missouri passed away

D.C. was preceded in death by his father and mother and 11

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Dr. John “Richard” Rudolph Hatcher

Dekoven D.C. Dean

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of his 13 brothers and sisters. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Dean, his three children, Patricia, Durell, and Adrian, his grandchildren Anthony, Derek, Ashley, Tausha, Taja, and Marvin, his great grandchildren Terrell and Myles, and his brotherin-law Charles Ingram, his brother Mr. Noble Dean Sr. of McCory, Arkansas, his sister Mrs. Catherine Jones of Temple Hills, Maryland, and many nieces, nephews, loved ones and friends. D.C. lived a long wonderful life, with a constant contagious smile on his face. He was a genuinely kind, easy going man and rarely met a stranger.

Towards the end of his life, many people contributed to helping him by calling, visiting and showing care.

And for that, the family is eternally grateful. It takes a village to, in D.C.’s words “Getter Done”!

church service. That morning, he was expected to sing with Turning Point Church’s Mass Choir as part of our Martin Luther King, Jr. observance.

The Turning Point Church family is sad to announce the passing of our brother in Christ, Deacon Larry Gates. He died unexpectedly from cardiac arrest at the age of 71 on Sunday, January 15th while at his home preparing for

“He was a gentle, loving giant… and might I add, smooth with the moves. He will be deeply missed,” said Lora Easterwood-Stafford. The Akron, Ohio native spent a large part of his professional career in the insurance industry. His later years were spent as a driver for his own taxi service, and with Springfield Public Schools as a bus driver.

Gates is remembered as the “life of the party;” always sharply dressed and very smooth! He was TPC’s resident expert on all things “cool!” He and his beautiful wife of 11 years, Valerie Robin-

son-Gates, were always seen ballroom dancing around Springfield, Detroit-style! The two were fondly known as “Mr. G” and “Lady V.” “I danced with him in one of [their] classes; I was messing up. But instead of telling me that, he said, ‘Come on sis, you can be my partner,’” said Tyra Knox. When he wasn’t dancing or teaching lessons, Gates was faithfully serving as a Turning Point Church deacon, which he did for many years. Whenever visitors would arrive, he was one of the first people to welcome them with a handshake or a hug. Gates always had a positive spirit and offered an encouraging word to anyone who needed it. Following conversations, he would often close by saying “love and respect.”

Deacon Larry Gates