My first document

Whether you are looking for a job with a great company, or have a product or service to sell, City Utilities wants to get connected to you.

KIDS CORNER

Mission:

JUNETEENTH WORD SCRAMBLER

Directions: Unscramble the

Diverse Children's Book of the Month

Seven year-old Lena decides to paint a picture of herself and wants to use brown paint for her skin

However, Lena learns that brown comes in many different shades when she and her mother take a walk through their neighborhood.

Designed by: Avery Brooks

From the Editor

MANAGEMENT

PRESIDENT & MANAGING EDITOR, Samuel G. Knox

ASSOCIATE EDITOR, Tyra Knox

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT, Mary Gartner

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

Fatherhood is more than just biology; it’s about behavior. While some may have a biological connection to their father figure, for most of us, it’s the way our fathers act that truly makes them a father. If you’re lucky enough to have a great father in your life, then Father’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show him how much he means to you.

Being a father is not about having superhuman abilities like strength, speed, or the power to fly. It’s about being there for your children, protecting them, and showing them unconditional love. When your child looks up to you, they see a superhero who can do no wrong. As a father, you play a crucial role in your child’s life, and your efforts often go unnoticed and unappreciated.

Father’s Day is the day to celebrate all the superhero fathers out there. Whether you have been a father for one year or longer, take a moment to pat yourself on the back and smile at the accolades you have rightfully earned. As a father, you have special powers that make you unique and irreplaceable in your child’s life. Thank you for embracing your role as a father and using your powers for good. The world is a better place because of you.

As always, if you have news or information you would like us to consider writing about, we invite you to email or give us a call. Your news leads and stories are always welcome. We hope you enjoy our June issue.

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

Visit The Discovery Center and the History Museum on the Square with a Free Pass

Brentwood Chapel - University Chapel

SELECTED

SELECTED

SELECTED

HOMES Independent

® FUNERAL

Licensed Funeral Directors of Distinction

HOMES Independent

FUNERAL HOMES Independent

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Licensed Funeral Directors of Distinction

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

Licensed Funeral Directors of Distinction

W. Bruce Howell • 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

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

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

We’re always looking for fun, free things to do over summer, and the Library has them! You can visit the Discovery Center of Springfield or the History Museum on the Square for free. All you need is your library card, and you can check out a pass for either museum at any Springfield-Greene County Library branch, Mobile Library, or Library Express East and Library Express West 24-hour kiosk. Passes admit up to six people and are valid for seven days. Look for the display in the libraries to check out a pass for either museum with your valid library card. For more information and guidelines about the passes, visit thelibrary.org/passes.

•••

Nicole E. Bauer • Angie Howell Larsen

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

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

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

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

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

Locally owned and operated for over 70 years

Locally owned and operated for over 70 years

Locally owned and operated for over 70 years

Be your best self at work. careers.commercebank.com WF1525155 Springfield UNITE Careers Ad 4.875x4.875.indd 1 3/8/2023 2:34:05 PM

Any library card holder can also check out from the Library an Adventure Backpack. Each one is filled with gadgets and field guides – often a magnifying glass, Port-O-Bug container – to help kids explore all aspects of the outdoors. Backpacks come in themes: Bugs, Geology, Nature Exploration, Birdwatching, Animals and Plants. Families with elementary-age children can check them out for three weeks from your neighborhood branch, or request one through thelibrary.org/catalog to be sent to your library, the Library Express East or the Library Express West kiosks. Search for the keywords: Adventure Backpack: (and the topic you want).

•••

The Library is launching a new series for grades 3-7 and their caregivers called Get Cooking at the Library, using a small, portable kitchen on a cart at the Midtown Carnegie Branch Maker Space.

On Saturday, June 24, from 1-3, we’ll cover Tools of the Trade for Kid Chefs. We’ll learn how to prepare recipes, kitchen safety and cooking skills. Registration starts June 10; call 417-862-0135. Provided in partnership with the University of Missouri Extension Greene County and Springfield Community Gardens.

•••

On Tuesday, July 11 at 2 p.m. in the Library Station Frisco Room, join our friends from Dickerson Park Zoo to learn about “Partners in Survival: Teamwork in the Animal Kingdom.” Kids will meet fascinating animals, discover how organisms rely on each, and leave with a greater appreciation for the interconnectedness of life on Earth.

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

SAAB City Wide Awards Reception Celebrates Students and Supporters

Springfield, MO—On April 26, SAAB (formerly known as Student African American Brotherhood) hosted their highly anticipated third annual SAAB City Wide Awards Reception at the Kickapoo High School cafeteria. This event was a resounding success, with distinguished individuals such as Dr. Grenita Lathan and various SAAB Ambassador Council Members including; the City of Springfield, Missouri State University, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, Spencer Fane Law Firm, Commerce Bank, Central Bank, Arvest Bank, Simmons Bank, Great Southern Bank, and all area Rotary Clubs being honored for their support of the SAAB organization and their commitment to engaging with SAAB students throughout the school year.

The decision to hold an annual awards reception stems from the SAAB Headquarters’ relocation to Springfield three years ago. SAAB CEO and founder, Dr. Tyrone Bledsoe, recognized the importance of acknowledging students who have achieved remarkable accomplishments throughout the school year and the support from local business and non-profit leaders. By highlighting these individuals, SAAB aims to inspire and motivate others to strive for excellence.

The inception of SAAB dates back to 1990 at Georgia Southwestern State University, where Dr. Bledsoe as a young adminis-

trator at the University identified a concerning trend involving young males of color on that campus. During the 1980s, there was a distressingly low percentage of black men enrolling in and completing college. In response to this disheartening situation, Dr. Bledsoe established at the time, the Student African American Brotherhood with a mission to provide comprehensive support to men of

color. SAAB recently did a brand refresh to celebrate its diversity in members around the country. The organization’s objective is to ensure these individuals excel academically, socially, and professionally to live lives of purpose.

Through the powerful bonds of brotherhood and mentorship, SAAB actively operates on over 350 campuses across 41 states, providing support to men of color

in middle schools, high schools and colleges.

Looking ahead, SAAB has exciting plans for the future of the SAAB National Conference. For the first time, it is anticipated that Springfield, MO, will play host to this significant event. This gathering will bring together speakers who are passionate about promoting the success and well-being of men of color. The SAAB National Conference promises to be an extraordinary opportunity for attendees to network, share ideas, and collaborate on strategies to advance the mission of SAAB coupled with the Springfield community being able to get involved.

by Samuel Knox, UniteNews Staff Writer

Photos by SAAB

Men’s health and wellness summit on June 10th

The Men’s Impact Summit

Date: Saturday, June 10, 2023

Location: Robert Plaster Free Enterprise. Scan

Springfield, MO— The Men’s Impact Summit, co-sponsored by the SpringMo Black Wellness Initiative, UniteNews Publication, Springfield NAACP, and the E-Factory, invites men from all walks of life to come together for a day of empowerment. With the theme “Men on The Move: Stronger, Wiser, and Better,” this free community event aims to provide valuable insights and discussions tailored specifically for men. The summit will take place on Saturday, June 10th, from 10 am to 2 pm at the Robert Plaster Free Enterprise (the eFactory) located at 405 N Jefferson Ave. Attendees will be provided with lunch during the event. Please note that this event is exclusively for men and young men.

The summit will feature a variety of engaging topics, including a panel discussion on “Health is Wealth,” focusing on improving the quality of life for minority men by addressing triggers, trauma, and triumph. Another session titled “Achieving Financial Freedom and Generational Wealth” will provide attendees with valuable insights into wealth building, financial planning, debt elimination, retirement strategies, and more. Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to engage

in a session called “What’s Love Got to Do With It: Real Talk on Love & Life,” where they can openly discuss the nuances of dating in today’s environment. Lastly, there will be a session titled “Before You Say I Do: Healthy Dating & Relationships,” which aims to equip attendees with valuable tips and strategies to enhance communication and improve marital morale.

The summit will feature esteemed guest moderator and speakers including:

Dr. Joe Debrah is a board-certified primary care physician at Mercy Health in Springfield, he will share ways men can live a healthy and long life to fulfil their God given assignments. Daniel Ogunyemi, a higher education administrator with a background in clinical mental health counseling and psychology, will bring his expertise to the event. Reggie Harris, a consultant, banking and financial leader, Fintech expert, business owner, and motivational speaker, will also share his valuable insights. Christian Lewis, the Regional Community President for Southwest Missouri and an accomplished banking professional, will be present to share his experiences and knowledge. Dr. Ron L. Woodard,

Director of Family Support Services in Springfield Public Schools, will contribute his expertise in education, dropout prevention, and marriage enrichment. Finally, Duan Gavel, the Co-Founder and CEO of All Things Diverse SGF LLC, will provide his expertise in health and wellness, particularly in the areas of diet, and intermittent fasting.

The Men’s Impact Summit promises to be a transformative event, offering men the opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and skills to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. Participants will

connected to a supportive community. It’s an event that celebrates the strength, wisdom, and growth of men, and encourages them to strive for personal and collective betterment.

Reggie Harris Christian Lewis

Daniel Ogunyemi

Dr Ron Woodard

Duan Gavel

Dr Joe Debrah

SCAN THE QR CODE TO REGISTER

Springfield, MO—The Omega Nu Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® ask that you join them on Saturday, June 17, 2023 from 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m. for their triannual Adopt-AStreet Clean Up. Meet us on Sherman Avenue (between Central St. and Division St.).

This community service project is directly aligned with one of the six Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® 2022-2026 international program initiatives, which is “Enhancing Our Environment.”

As an international organization, Alpha Kappa Alpha’s focus with regard to this initiative is to engage its 120,000 active members in specific strategies to  improve and protect the environment at scale. To learn more about this initiative and others, please visit https://aka1908.com/ programs/2022-2026-targets/.

Springfield, MO—Join us for the 2nd Annual Women of Excellence Tea and Lunch fundraiser—an event you won’t want to miss! Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 10, 2023, from 11 am to 1:30 pm at the Drew Lewis Foundation located at The Fairbanks, 1126 N. Broadway Ave. Due to the overwhelming response we received last year, we have secured a larger venue this time.

This charitable endeavor is dedicated to our youth, bringing women together to empower one another and make a positive impact on our community. We are honored to have esteemed guests

at the fundraiser, including Zone 1 Councilwoman Monica Horton, CEO and RN Latasha Harris from Nurse Hustle Recruitment, and Gloria Hereford, the Owner/ Founder of Mama G’s Kitchen & Lovely Creations. The event promises a day filled with inspiration and camaraderie as we focus on shaping the future of young ladies. Additionally, there will be exciting raffles, door prizes, delicious food, and plenty of fun. With last year’s event selling out quickly, be sure to secure your tickets promptly to avoid missing out. Scan the QR Code to get your tickets.

Omega Nu Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Adopt-A-Street

Fundraiser to support A Girl Like Me Network

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

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

“The Unite Publication in accepting advertising in this publication, makes no independent investigation concerning the services of products advertised and neither endorses nor

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.

by Heather Noggle

Make A Contribution Today!

Springfield, MO— Scammers like to send emails like they’re coming from PayPal.

Payment request email arrives from PayPal- say $300.

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.

1) You receive an email or two from scammer “PayPal” and maybe one from real PayPal.

2) Both emails show a fraudulent request.

“Let’s build a stronger community together.”

You log into PayPal independently, which is good. You see that payment request right there in PayPal for $300. And PayPal shows that this is probably a fraudulent request.

You don’t know this person or company, so you deny that PayPal payment request.

By denying that payment request, you confirm to the scammer that you indeed have a PayPal account using your email address.

Then, you’ve probably gotten an email at that email address from the scammer that looks legitimate and offers to help. That email contains a phone number you can call (and reach the scammer). They’ll help you resolve the issue and make sure there’s “no trouble.”

I’ll summarize.

Search YouTube: Black Fathers Matter

3) You confirm that there is indeed a fraudulent request.

- Samuel Knox Managing Editor

4) Chances are you delete the request.

If you call the scammer, it’s possible a person will “help” you out of your money.

Be aware.  Scammers are everywhere. If you notice what’s happening here as you investigate, remember to congratulate yourself.

You can let PayPal know about the details if you experience this scamyou can send them the fake email for them to analyze to spoof@paypal.com

Change your PayPal password - make it more secure. Why? Because you’re thinking about it at that moment, and you’re in the PayPal site. That reaction is unrelated to the scam, sure, but you’re conscious about cybersecurity right now. Boosting your security will make you feel better. Review your multifactor authentication settings, too. Make those better, or add multifactor authentication if it’s missing.

Tell your friends the story and the sneaky details.

Consider changing the email address affiliated with the account, or even getting rid of that PayPal.

Consider removing your banking details altogether from PayPal. You get better protection with credits cards.

An example of a PayPal scam. Don’t fall for the trick

Scammers like to send emails like they’re coming from PayPal

2023 Springfield Juneteenth Celebration

UPCOMING EVENTS AT TIMMONS HALL

Book Fair and living History

Show & Tell | Sat., June 3

Timmons Hall takes history on the road with a Book Fair and Living History Show & Tell at Barnes & Noble bookstore. Pick up a “I, Too, Am America” Freedom Passport as part of the event.

Age: All ages

Time: 12-3 p.m.

Fee: FREE

Bobby Norfolk: Dreams

Deferred | Sat., June 10

Springfield, MO— A city-wide Juneteenth Celebration weekend will start on Friday, June 16. at the Springfield Art Museum featuring The Living History Actors and Milly Project Performance. The History Actors starts at 5:00 pm and the Milly Project Performance is at 6:00 pm. These events are free to public on Saturday, June 17, at the Expo Center. Doors will open to the public at 11:00 am - NAACP Program is scheduled from 12:00 to 5:00 pm.

On Sunday, June 18, Nappy Roots performance at the Rif. Doors will open at 5:00 pm. Tickets available for $25. Scan the QR Code on the poster located on the back cover.

federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas in 1865 to take control of the state and ensure that all enslaved people be freed. The troops’ arrival came a full two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth honors the end to slavery in the United States and is considered the longest-running African American holiday. On June 17, 2021, it officially became a federal holiday.

Confederate General Robert E. Lee had surrendered at Appomattox Court House two months earlier in Virginia, but slavery had remained relatively unaffected in Texas—until U.S. General Gordon Granger stood on Texas soil and read General Orders 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.”

Jump on the “A” train to celebrate the African American art, music and poetry exploding out of the Harlem in the early 20th century. Emmy award-winning storyteller Bobby Norfolk makes stops at Timmons Hall for poetry, prose, vignettes and toe-tapping music! The evening begins with a Meet-and-Greet costume party. Come dressed to celebrate and mingle with living history figures of the literary art movement.

Age: All ages

Time: 6:30-8 p.m.

Fee: FREE

Juneteenth Weekend Festival

June 16-17

Celebrate Springfield’s Juneteenth weekend at multiple events and locations. Presented by the NAACP of Springfield, in collaboration with Community Partnership of the Ozarks. More information at SGFJuneteenth.com.

Age: All ages

Date: Fri., June 16

at Springfield Art Museum

Sat., June 17

at Springfield Expo Center

Time: Fri., June 16:

5 p.m., “I, Too, Am America”

6 p.m.,“The Milly Project”

Sat., June 17: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Fee: FREE admission, items may be available for purchase.

Pick up an “I Too Am America” passport

In honor of Juneteenth, take a cultural tour of the African American community. Beginning June 3, pick up an “I Too Am America” passport at any Springfield Greene County Library or at Barnes & Noble, 3055 S. Glenstone, to guide you as you explore African American timeline history and learn more about contributions made by striving toward freedom.

Juneteenth commemorates an effective end of slavery in the United States.

Juneteenth (short for “June Nineteenth”) marks the day when

See ParkBoard/Timmons Hall ad on this page and the poster on page 16 for more information about 2023 Juneteenth events.

For more information, contact Springfield Greene County Park Board’s Timmons Hall at 417-512-6070, in partnership with the Springfield NAACP, Community Partnership of the

Ozarks, City of Springfield, and the Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Bettmann Archive/Getty Images

Your Health & Wellness News

The Impact of Men’s Health on Fatherhood

by Melesha Bailey, UniteNews Contributing Writer

Springfield, MO— June is National Men’s Health Month. It’s a time for boys and men to focus on caring for their bodies by eating healthy foods, getting physical activity, and being diligent about preventing chronic disease. June is also the time we celebrate men with Father’s Day. Fatherhood is rewarding as it gives men a sense of purpose and fulfillment and positively affects their health.   Fatherhood can also be challenging and stressful as men balance work, family, and personal life demands, leading to stress, anxiety, and other mental and health

conditions. Unfortunately, many Black Men endure these conditions, which can impact men’s ability to be present as a father and role models for young boys.    Black men face health disparities from systemic racism, discrimination, and socioeconomic factors, which can lead to poor health.

Systemic racism impacts access to opportunities for advancement to better lifestyles, education, employment, and healthcare. In addition, barriers to access to quality healthcare, such as transporta-

tion and insurance, can impact the ability to receive preventative care and treatment. These factors contribute to higher rates of chronic disease, including obesity, Type II diabetes, cancer, and heart disease, Black men’s leading causes of death.    According to the Men’s Health Braintrust, American boys and men die earlier than women at higher rates from many of these leading causes of death. Unfortunately, many men don’t seek preventative health care leading to poorer health outcomes. Men’s Health

Month highlights the need for early detection and treatment of complex diseases for men, especially black men.

The socioeconomic factor of health disparities for Black men living in poverty and dealing with financial difficulties can impact access to healthy food, safe housing, and quality healthcare. In addition, environmental factors such as living in areas of high pollution, high crime, unclean water, toxins, and biohazardous regions can also impact health and increase the risk of chronic disease.

Fathers play an essential role in shaping children’s beliefs

Continued on page 11

Lack of Communication is #1 Lawsuit in Senior Living Communities

by Jacqueline Jadidian, UniteNews Contributing Writer

Springfield, MO— During the years I was a licensed long-term care administrator, I was required to attend several state and national conferences for my continued education and licensure. One of the subjects that was consistently presented to administrators, directors of nursing and administration staff by attorneys was the lack of communication in nursing homes. The number one reason why most family of residents sue nursing homes was because there was a consistent trend of lack of

communication from the nursing home staff to the family/resident. The lawsuits usually stemmed from residents that had a fall with injury, abuse/neglect/retaliation, sudden onset of illness and/or death, and/or issues that arise with the resident that required the nursing home to issue a 30-day discharge letter.

The last thing a nursing home needs is a lawsuit, especially if the issue could have been dealt with and hopefully resolved by better communication and written documentation by the nursing home. There is a saying in the industry that if it was not documented then

it never happened. A nursing home can say they did everything in their power to provide preventative care as well as follow-up to the resident and family, but if it’s not documented, and documented well, the nursing home has no evidence to support their claim.

Here is a brief list of resident rights pertaining to communication (a list called Resident Rights should be given to the resident):

1. A resident and/or respon-

sible party (must have Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare) may request a copy of their medical record in part or in its entirety. They have the right to have access and review their medical record. Keep in mind they may be charged for a copying fee.

2. Anytime a resident/responsible party communicates with administration regarding concerns about care and/or finances, I recommend emailing administration versus only speak-

Continued on page 11

Jacqueline Jadidian

Melesha Bailey

Men’s Health

continued from page 10

around health and wellness. Men’s attitudes and behaviors regarding pursuing health and fitness will impact children’s health. When fathers encourage healthy eating habits, demonstrate physical activity, and model positive coping strategies for stress helps men to be great role models for their children, grandchildren, and other young boys and men in their communities.

According to the Routledge Handbook of Parenting, fatherhood can positively and negatively affect men’s health. When men prioritize health and seek

support, it influences the children in their lives. Strong community involvement and support from other black men promote opportunities to learn from others when faced with mental health challenges and overall well-being. In addition, fathers may benefit from connecting with other fathers and participating in community activities that involve their whole family.

Addressing health disparities for black men requires a comprehensive approach focusing on the underlying factors contributing to these disparities. Identifying preventative service, promoting healthy behaviors and lifestyles, and addressing social and environmental factors that impact health.

The SpringMo Black Wellness Initiative Men’s Impact Summit on June 10th will address these issues and more. It’s an excellent opportunity for men and young men to learn more about health and wellness, relationships, the importance of physical activity, and finances from our community’s experts. All these factors play a role in men’s health.

So register today for this important event for the black men in our community.

Communication

continued from page 10

in person, so they will have a paper trail if anything arises.

3. The nursing homes have

a grievance (concerns) process in place, and they must provide follow-up to you after they have completed their in-house investigation over the concern. If you feel the grievance has not been resolved, I recommend speaking to the administrator. If you continue to have issues with the grievance after speaking to the administrator, then I recommend calling the community’s corporate office before calling your state’s department on aging.

Multicultural Speed Dating: Meet colleagues from a different culture

We want to help employers diversify their workforce and retention. This is a starting point to fostering a workplace with real employee connections and an awareness for those you work with. Why attend this Multicultural Speed Dating event?

• Learn about new people from different countries and cultures

• Meet employers and potentially land your dream job!

• Taste a meal from a new culture

Date: Saturday, June 3rd, 2023

Time: 6:00 PM

Location: The Drew Lewis Foundation, Cafegymatorium

Hosts: The Drew Lewis Foundation and Purpose Connect

Scan QR Code to Register here.

No quick fix for those struggling to staff their companies

Springfield, MO—For some time now, many businesses have struggled to staff their companies. Both large and small businesses are struggling to fill and retain job vacancies. There is a lot of speculation as to the cause of this. From the effects of COVID, to a mass number of retirements, lack of childcare facilities, to the thinking that people just don’t want to work. Depending on where you stand on this issue, it appears to be a problem that does not have a quick fix. Employers are in the position where their corporate culture and benefits will play a big role in their ability to hire candidates. Let’s not forget that pay also plays a bigger part in the hiring process. So how do we navigate these issues.

According to a report completed by MOCAN (Missouri College and Career Attainment Network) the population in Missouri is changing. This change is happening both with age and demographic. While the population in the state is growing, the working age population will likely decline. The working age for the report is 20 to 64 years of age. This group is projected to decline by 2.2 % by 2030. Missouri’s population growth through 2030 is projected to be in those under the age of 10 and over 65. This information shows that our population is aging. This means employers should look to retaining talent they already have. There are organizations out there right now that are working with employers to help them rethink how they support their employees that were traditionally thought to be on the road towards retirement.

ProAge (nonprofit based in the United Kingdom) reported that 65% of employees aged over 55 believed the jobs market is closed to them

applying for roles and that 56% of workers over 55 wanted to work beyond the age of 66 and 1 in 4 wanted to work into their 80s. This information tells me that targeting a different demographic could benefit some employers.

Missouri is also becoming increasingly more diverse. The greatest amount of population growth is projected to be in those classified as two or more races. This can be seen in the demographic information of Springfield public schools. SPS is the largest school district in Missouri. Their students of two or more races, are more than their African American students. The black population in Missouri is projected to grow by 54% by 2030 while the Hispanic population is projected to grow by 31%. What does this mean for Missouri? What does this mean for the smaller cities outside of

Kansas City and St. Louis which have a larger percentage of diverse members of their communities. It means creating spaces and places that people can get connected and feel welcomed. Having employers that value inclusion and actively live out those values will be important to people relocating to Missouri.

The Wall Street Journal recently named Springfield as one of the top cities to work for remote workers in February of 2023. This was a big accomplishment for our community. Then on 5/16/2023 the Washington Post, reported on an SPS issue with a teacher using the n-word. National headlines that show a lack of cultural competence from community members and employees is a detriment to how our community is viewed by those that are outside of it. This can be a barrier to attracting qualified candidates for employment to our community. It can

also be a barrier for large employers that have a diverse workforce. There are outside opinions of this area of the country where some have viewed it as unwelcoming to people of certain cultures, demographics and sexual orientation. I spoke to an employer once about barriers to hiring in Springfield and their response was a concern for people with different backgrounds and beliefs. They asked me; when people are recruited and move here…where is their safe space? As we continue to grow and focus on business and employment and building a city that will attract young professionals and retain them. We must also focus on creating a community where inclusion is for all people.

by Darlin Mabins Multicultural Business Association

Arts & Entertainment News

ABS Band at SGF Expo Center

The Arthur Duncan Jazz Trio

Springfield, MO – Come out and hear The Arthur Duncan Jazz Trio at the Where House Bar located at 2463 W. Sunshine St., Suite 120, every Monday at 6 p.m. May & June

The jazz trio features Arthur Duncan on keyboard, Ernie Bedell, Sr. on bass guitar, and Richard Allen on drums.

Vic Vaughan and Souled Out

Springfield, MO— The ABS Band will be performing at the Springfield Expo Center, Saturday, June 17, from 1 pm - 3 pm.

Springfield, MO – Vic Vaughan and Souled Out, is a super-talented super-charged Funk, Blues, Dance, Rock, and R&B band.

Vic Vaughan and Souled Out will perform June 24, at 6 p.m. at the Wire Road Brewing, 4453 S. Timbercreek Ave, Battlefield, MO

Hear Shaun Munday

Springfield, MO – Shaun Munday is a one-of-a-kind talent and blends soul-drenched vocals with show-stopping bass guitar technique.

Shaun Munday will be performing at Best of Luck, June 14, 2023 | 6:00 p.m., 313-B South Jefferson Ave., Springfield, Missouri

Join Shaun at Best of Luck on the second Wednesday of the month from 6-8 p.m.

Chestnut Expressway.

The 24/7 made its debut in early February with funding from the Friends of the Library and additional support from the State Library.

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If you’re a grandparent raising grandchildren or know someone who is, helpful resources will be highlighted from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 16, at the Library Station. Visit with representatives from area organizations and gather information on community resources. It’s sponsored by the Library, NAACP’s Be a Jewel and Grands Raising Grands. Registration starts Feb. 5; call 616-0683.

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Here are two more programs for families: Picky Eaters and Problem Feeders is the topic from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 23, in the Library Center auditorium. If mealtimes and snacks with a child are a struggle, this is for you! Register by calling 883-5341.

Conscious Parenting: From Chaos to Calm, 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, March 16, in the Library Center auditorium. Conscious Discipline supports children’s healthy social and emotional learning. Parents learn life-changing skills that decrease problem

2 Weeks – 36 Hours (6 hours a day) new job-training program for manufacturing, construction, transportation/logistics, information technology and healthcare industries. You can work another job while attending the training. At the end of training, participants are connected to employment opportunities with the same employers who designed the training program. Wages for most jobs start between $10 - $17 per hour. For more information or to register visit: www.changeonethousnad. org or call 417-887-4343.

Northwest Project

Offers a free program to help families revitalize their hope so they can set and meet personal goals with a community system of support. Program participants focus on specific ways to help families move from living paycheck to paycheck: Affordable Quality Housing, Quality Childcare, Transportation, Job Training and Educational Opportunities, Budgeting, Resolving Legal Issues, Accountability and Health and Well Being. For more information: contact the Northwest Project at: www. DrewLewis.org, SGFNWP@ gmail.com or 417-720-1890.

One Door

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

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.”

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.

Do you have old photos of Silver Springs Park?... Give us a call.

UniteNews Publication is collaborating on a film project to highlight the historic ParkDay Reunion Celebration and Silver Springs Park.

While the project has collected oral history interviews with several local families who have a long history in the area, the project lacks photographs and home movies that were taken in the park and at the annual celebration.

We are looking for past photos of Silver Springs Park and the ParkDay Celebration and other related documents.

If you have any of these items, we ask that you contact UniteNews publication (417) 864-7444, email: unitepublication@yahoo. com or Timmons Hall (417) 9831171, email: researchrethinkreimagine@gmail.com