2023 March Unite

This month’s issue is a special one. We caught up with studio musician, songwriter, and producer Pierre Jamerson to talk about what he has been up to since he left Springfield over five years ago. It’s always exciting to interview people who have once lived in Springfield and moved away to grow and reach their potential. I remember Pierre as a young musician who played at his parent’s church and moved out to LA to make it big in the music industry.

Springfield Turning Point Church will host for the second year in a row the Missouri Missionary Baptist Spring Board Meeting. The Spring Board Meeting serves as a planning session for the associated churches around the state.

Also in this issue, we highlight information about the next project for the Mosaic Arts Collective. Last month, you missed a treat if you didn’t see the Color Purple production at the historic Fox Theatre. It was amazing to see the talented all-black cast sing, dance, and act out the Alice Walker story. The Springfield Little Theatre Education Department and Mosaic Arts Collective are excited to present Disney’s Moana, Jr.! Auditions will start for performers ages 6-18. You’ll find these and other great stories in this issue.

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 March issue.

Best,

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

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

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

Jin J. X will perform at the Good Vibrations Concert series at the Library Station

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Like jazz? Singer-songwriter Jin J. X will perform a free concert at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 18, in the Library Station Frisco Room, for adults. It’s part of the Good Vibrations at the Station concert series. He is a jazz guitarist who uses looping and jazz harmonies while exploring topics such as race, class and matters of the heart. For a change of pace, catch the free Symphony in the Stacks concert at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, March 26, at the Library Center. The Springfield Symphony Chamber Orchestra will perform a free concert, Prokofiev’s “Peter and the Wolf” for all ages, conducted and narrated by Symphony Music Director and Conductor Kyle Wiley Pickett. Both concerts are sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

•••

The Library is celebrating the One Read featuring “The Seed Keeper” by Diane Wilson. The author will be in person at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 13, at the Library Center. A series of programs will explore the issues of a Dakota family’s struggle and sacrifices through the voices of four indelible women. Through our partnership with the American Indian Center of Springfield, programs touch on issues of gardening and sustainable practices. You can see the full schedule at thelibrary.org/oneread including this one:

Saturday, March 25, 1-3 p.m. in the Midtown Carnegie Branch, it’s How to Grow a Three Sisters Garden. Learn the history of Three Sisters planting and how the “sisters,” corn, beans and squash plants, nurture and depend on each other. Participants will receive Heirloom Seed Library Three Sisters seed kits. Registration starts March 14; call 417-862-0135.

•••

Over 40 people attended the last Fix-It Fair at the Midtown Carnegie Branch, so you won’t want to miss the next one on Saturday, April 15, from noon-4 p.m. in the Reading Room. Volunteer fixers will help you repair your household appliances, bikes and even clothes. Presented with Community Partnership of the Ozarks.

•••

Plan ahead for this event! Kwame Alexander, award-winning young adult author and educator, will talk to kids and adults at a free program from 7-8 p.m. Thursday, April 27, at the Springfield Art Museum, 1111 E. Brookside Drive.

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

Jin J. X, SInger/ Songwriter

Turning Point will host 2nd Missouri Missionary Baptist Spring Board Meeting

Springfield, MO—The Spring Board Meeting of the Missionary Baptist State Convention of Missouri along with the Southwest District Association will be hosted by Turning Point Church, March 13-15, 2023.

The Missionary Baptist State Convention of Missouri (MBSCM) was first founded in 1889. Since that time, the institution has stood strong, making it one of the oldest congregations in the nation. The Spring Board Meeting serves as a planning session for the associated churches around the state. Before the pandemic the convention held nearly 400 African-Americans members just in Springfield. The church still holds a large number of members within the abundance of locations around the state, geographically covering the areas of Columbia, Kansas City, St. Louis, and other cities in Missouri. About 250 attendees are expected to attend the event.

The MBSCM is mission driven to encourage and empower others according to God’s will and aims to educate Evangelism through their missions.

Meetings will be held at Turning Point Church. Luncheons will be hosted at Missouri State University.

Monday, March 13, 2023

- 12 Noon: Registration Opens

The Spring Board Meeting 2023 Schedule

Tuesday, March 14, 2023

- 8:00 AM: Opening

Wednesday, March 15, 2023

- 1:00 PM: President and Officers Meeting

- 2:00 PM: Congress Board Meeting

- 3:30 PM: Convention Information Meeting

- 7:00 PM: Musical/Welcome Program

- 8:30 to 10 AM: Auxiliary/ Division Period

- 10:30 AM: General Session

- 12:30 PM: Fellowship Luncheon, Speaker, Dr. Algerian Hart

- 2 PM to 5 PM Auxiliary/Division Period

- 7 PM: Worship Service

- 8:10 AM: Auxiliary/Division Period

- 10:15 AM: General Session

Meetings will be held at Turning Point Church. Luncheons will be hosted at Missouri State University.

Photo L to R: H. Wes Pratt, Clif Smart, Tim Ferguson, Dr. Linden Bowie, Rufus Kelly, Terrance Tate, Dr. Byron Crawford, Dr Ryan Reed, Dr. Tyrone Bledsoe

Photo provided by Tim Ferguson

Photo provided by Unite Staff

The Importance of Women’s History Month

by Gwen Marshall, SPS

Springfield, MO— As we prepare to celebrate Women’s History Month I would like to share some thoughts from Ms. M. Griffith an educator. “Women’s history does not rewrite history, but it does add very different perspectives about what is historically significant. Traditionally, history has focused on political, military, and economic leaders and events. That approach has virtually excluded women, both leaders, and ordinary citizens, from history books.” - Scholastic

We should celebrate these powerful women all year and not just

during the month of March. We need to remember those fearless and noble women in our history and share their contributions with our children.

It is wonderful to see that our country has worked and is continuing to work to make sure women are celebrated and awarded the recognition they deserve.

In 1978 the Education Task Force of the Sonoma County Commission on the Status of Women initiated Women’s History Week the week of March 8 (International Women’s Day). This led to President Jimmy Carter declaring this week as a National Women’s

History Week in 1980. By 1986 fourteen states had declared March as Women’s History Month. The National Women’s History Alliance in Santa Rosa CA lead a coalition to lobby Congress to make March Women’s History Month. In 1987 Congress passed a resolution to designate March as National Women’s History Month.

It is important to educate our students about the powerful women in our history. We need to give those who came before us the recognition and light that they earned and deserve; they made us who we are today. It is

imperative that we show girls and young women their future selves in these women from our history. Let them use these historic role models as their mirrors. We need to educate all of our students about the diversity that has contributed to the world they live in today and that our history needs to be told in full.

Please take the time during Women’s History Month to focus on our female leaders, those gone and still present today. Let our young future women leaders see who they can and will become.

Coming Events:

Spring Break: March 13- 17, 2023

Show Your Colors Artist Showcase

Springfield,MO—You are invited to Empower SGF: A Networking Hour on Friday, March 3rd, 4-5 pm,

hosted by the Artists Empowerment Collective along with the Springfield Regional Arts Council at The Creamery Arts Center. Join community leaders and Arts patrons for an early access look at the “3rd Annual Show Your Colors: Artists Showcase,” an exhibition amplifying visual and performing artists of color from Springfield and surrounding areas as well as hors d’oeuvres and drinks.

The exhibition opening reception “3rd Annual Show Your Colors: Artists Showcase” will directly follow the meet and greet from 5:00-7:00 p.m.

Please RSVP to the Artists Empowerment Collective at (417) 8622787 or Keisha@Springfieldarts.org

Gwen Marshall, SPS

Black United Independent Collegiate (BUIC) breaking barriers at Drury

by Unite Staff Writer

Springfield, MO— Serenity Sosa a junior at Drury University majoring in Criminology, with a minor in Political Science serves as the president of The Black United Independent Collegiate (BUIC). According to Sosa, the organization was created around 1973 by students seeking civil rights.

Sosa, plans to work in the field of Higher Education working as a Diversity Equity & Inclusion director.

Our mission is to:

• Promote an atmosphere of mutual respect, cooperation, and unity among our fellow students of color

• Provide a safe space for support and encouragement for students of color

• Maintain a clear commitment to promoting academic excellence, individual success and achievement among students of color

• Raise awareness of issues involving students of color and actively work to dismantle racial barriers while expanding our understanding of intersectionality

• Empower students of color to confidently establish themselves within Drury University’s campus environment and beyond

Meetings are held weekly at 6:30 PM on Thursdays in the Diversity Lounge in the Findley Student Center.

“We want to show students that there is a safe space for them here at Drury and that they are valued,” said Sosa. Our biggest project to date was getting Ethnic Haircare Products in the Bookstore. After talking to

the diverse student on campus, “That was kind of our brain child in thinking of ways to increase retention of student of African America decent on campus and a nice addition to the bookstore.

Whether its through having a little Auntie Jackies Cream Conditioner for your hair or having our new Diversity Lounge that we are working on, these are great steps DE&I at Drury that line up with our new mission statement that came out last year.

“I will be giving a Diversity Training presentation to the residential staff, peer like me. Our housing director, and residential directors will also be there. I am hoping that my presentation will help build cultural competency into Drury’s culture. I feel that we can bridge some misunderstandings and cross cultural barriers that I feel a lot of students have a hard time breaking through.

The BUIC motto is breaking barriers. And that’s what we try to do, break those barriers, like lack of opportunity, inadequate assess to the same opportunities that other Drury students get.”

Future events sponsored by BUIC include a Fashion Show. The Fashion Show will be their third annual show and their largest event of the year. The theme is “Element,” Through elements, we will be highlighting police brutality, and racial discrimination as well as showcasing cultural expression like music, art and food.

“While we have an original cause and mission, we like to also have fun, “ said Sosa.

Rosalyn Thomas, Associate

Dean of Diversity & Inclusion at Drury University and serves as Campus Advisor to BUIC sayes, “BUIC has proven to be a vital source on campus that offers support to students.   Using the acronym, BUIC, which stands for Black United Independent Collegiate, it is present for all students.  BUIC was revived in 2018 and

has been noted as Organization of the year in 2022.  The activities that the organization has chosen to bring to campus have been exciting, thought provoking and entertaining.  I see the organization attaining more and more each year as  students step up to lead.”

Serenity Sosa, junior and president of “BUIC” at Drury University

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.

“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 Unite

Springfield, MO— World War I was a major global conflict that lasted from 1914 to 1918 and involved many of the world’s great powers. The United States entered the war in 1917, and over four million Americans served in the military during the conflict. While World War I is often remembered for the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought in it, it is also important to recognize the injustices and challenges faced by many soldiers, particularly Black soldiers, who were fighting for a country that did not always value or protect their rights. In this context, the story of Myrl Billings, a Black World War I veteran who received the highest Medal of Honor from the French and helped establish a Black American Legion post in Springfield, Missouri, is a testament to the strength and resilience of those who fought for their country in the face of adversity.

Make A Contribution Today!

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

“Let’s build a stronger community together.”

As these young men were shipped off to foreign lands to wage war, some, like Myrl Billings from Springfield, were not content to be relegated to support roles and actively sought to join a unit that would be on the front line. However, Billings was not allowed to serve with the American troops because of segregation. Although he was an American soldier, he was given over to fight with our French ally in the war. He found his place with a New York

National Guard unit that would become famous as the “Harlem Hellfighters.” In WWI, the men of the 369th Infantry Regiment, trained by the French, spent 191 days in the front-line trenches. During this time, part of the unit was pinned down by a German machine gun nest. Pvt. Billings and three others volunteered to take out the machine gun. They succeeded in killing three Germans and capturing four others while losing one man.

- Samuel Knox Managing Editor

Billings, one of the most decorated soldiers ever to serve from Greene County, Missouri, was awarded two French “Croix de Guerre” Medals, France’s highest honor, an honor equivalent to the United States Medal of Honor. No one else on record has received two Medals of Honor in the US. However, he suffered lung damage caused by German gas attacks, which came at great personal cost. When he returned home to Springfield, he learned of a new organization of veterans of the Great War called The American Legion. His health failing, Billings worked to become a member of the Legion. Two local posts were organized, but neither would allow Blacks to join their ranks. Not to be deterred, Billings and fellow Black World War I veterans worked to establish their own post. American Legion Post 125, the Norval Stafford post, was organized in 1919 and officially chartered in 1928. In keeping with the tradition of other Springfield posts, they named it after Norval Stafford, the

Continued on page 11

Pvt. Billings, one of the most decorated soldiers ever to serve from Greene County, Missouri

News Staff and Sergeant Abraham Clark

Pvt. Myrl Billings

Photo coutesy of Dr Katherine

Pierre Jamerson: LA studio musician, songwriter & producer

by UniteNews Staff

We caught up with studio musician, songwriter, and producer Pierre Jamerson to talk about what he has been up to since he left Springfield over five years ago. UniteNews: Can you describe what it was like for you growing up in Springfield, Missouri?

Pierre: I was born on the Northside of Springfield, However, I grew up on the Southeast side, with my parents, Pastor Lamarr P. and First Lady Deborah Jamerson, who are currently Pastors of New Hope International Ministries. I attended Bingham Elementary, Hickory Hills Middle School and I attended Central High School for a year but I graduated from Glendale High School. In high school, I played basketball and music on the side.

UniteNews: When did you become interested in music?

Pierre: My parents noticed that I was always beating on things, so they bought me a Casio keyboard when I was about five years old. Although they had purchased a keyboard, they enrolled me in drum lessons, and I stuck to playing drums from the ages of five to thirteen. In my early days of elementary school, every kid was required to take music class, so we all learned to play the recorder and I remember the excitement of learning how to play songs on it. Anything that involved music or making sounds fascinated me, and I never put it aside.

I started playing the keyboard when I was eight and took les-

sons from a piano teacher named Helen Finley, who taught at Hoover Music Company. I could read music, but I also had an ear for music, so when she played something, I could play it back to her without looking at the music. Although I knew what the notes were on the sheet, it was quicker for me to play it by ear. After taking lessons from Ms. Finley, I moved on to Piano Craft, where I learned a method called Suzuki, which was based around learning by ear. The classical pieces couldn’t hold my attention as time went on, so I lost interest.

A turning point happened later when I took music lessons from a lady named Prophet Beverly Daniels from Southern California. She had recently moved to Springfield, and she taught me the real fundamentals and outline of Jazz and Gospel music. Even through-

UniteNews: What was your first paid gig?

Pierre: My first real gig was playing for church, but I had been doing it for so long that it didn’t feel like a real gig. I was probably fourteen when I started. The church always paid me. After I moved to LA, my first gig was a tour with a Latin artist named Jorge Blanco.

UniteNews: What was the story behind your move from Springfield to LA?

out college, I continued to study music and take piano lessons from the University professors.

Pierre: After graduating from Drury University with my BA in psychology, I started a studio teaching piano and engineering, producing and mix engineering

local talent while still working for my parent’s business Jamerson Door, Inc. I had a friend named William Fortney who worked at Palen Music Center. After he moved to LA we kept in touch. I sent him some recordings from Springfield I worked on, but he didn’t seem impressed. In about two years into running my studio, William called and asked me if I had thought about moving to LA. He mentioned a studio that worked with Hollywood and Disney clients and offered to let me take over his housing lease. He thought it would be good for me to grow and reach my potential. He gave me three days to decide.

Continued on page 14

Both photos are Pierre Jamerson on stage performing in concert.

Both photo were provided by Pierre Jamerson

Your Health & Wellness News

Sugar or Artificial Sweeteners - Use With Caution

by Melesha Bailey

Springfield, MO—

We love our sweets: cakes, cookies, candy bars, and perhaps sweet tea. Many of us began consuming sugar through formula as infants, and the love affair continues to this day.

Sugar contains empty calories and is in most processed foods. White and processed sugar is the most dangerous. Some avoid sugar for health reasons and use honey, molasses, or agave nectar as a substitute for sweeteners. These can be a healthier option, but overuse can cause harmful effects. The body will process these sugars, like white sugar, and can raise blood sugar and insulin levels.

A study published in The Journal Cell Reports by researchers at the University of Exeter found a connection between a gene that

causes sugar cravings. Science has demonstrated that people can be addicted to sugar in the same way as those addicted to heroin, cocaine, or nicotine. Sugar gives us pleasure which stimulates our reward center in the brain. So whether you are consuming white or brown sugar, honey, or agave, the body has difficulty processing, but the brain is happy.

Artificial sweeteners combine chemicals to make foods sweeter and improve the taste without the calories of sugar. They can be sweeter and take smaller amounts to provide the same level of sweetness as processed sugar, changing our tolerance for sweets. Many times doctors and dieticians recommend artificial sweeteners as an alternative to white sugar for their patients who struggle with diabetes or who are trying to lose weight.

Artificial sweeteners can have

Death & Dying: A Season for Grieving

by Jacqueline Jadidian

Springfield, MO— We all know at least one person in our life, possibly ourselves, that has encountered a loved one dying. Death is inevitable and is part of the circle of life. Death affects all of us differently including length of time to mourn and grieve. The grieving process is unique to every individual and is not a one-size fits

all. Sometimes we tend to think people should grieve as we would, and if they do not, we can become judgmental and lack empathy.

My family and I lost our beloved grandma in April of 2020 due to Covid. She was one of the first in her senior community to catch it and be sent to a local hospital. Due to the severity of the infection along with pneumonia the hospital staff wanted to put her on

side effects. According to the University of Texas MD Anderson Center, even zero-calorie artificial sweeteners may not be healthy. Some studies with laboratory animals have found links between artificial sweeteners and cancer.

The US government allows sugar substitutes like aspartame (NutriSweet and Equal), sucralose (Splenda), saccharin (Sweet and Low), or anything with an “ose,” dextrose, maltose, fructose, sucrose, and lactose. However, many countries do not allow these sugar substances in food or drinks because of health risks.

Some research on long-term, daily use of artificial sweeteners suggests a link to a higher risk of

a ventilator, or else she would not survive. We knew my grandma’s wishes, and we declined per her request. Shortly after we stated her end-oflife wishes she left us. The most difficult part of her passing was we could not see her and say our good-byes. She was admitted on a Covid ward, and the hospital would only allow one person at a time to visit a patient, with the requirement of being dressed

stroke, heart disease, and death overall, according to the Mayo Clinic. In addition, fake sugar can cause migraines, depression, anxiety, weight gain, cardiovascular disease, a risk to pregnant women, diabetes in children, strokes, dementia, and memory loss.

Both sugar and artificial sweeteners are very addictive. However, artificial sweeteners can often make you hungrier, eat more during the day, and develop diabetes, which is ironic since many nutritionist and dieticians ask their patients to use these to replace sugar.   If you have to use a sweetener, a sugar substitute like stevia or a mixture of sugar and stevia is a

Continued on page 11

head to toe in protective gear. Not knowing enough about Covid since it was the beginning of a long horrendous journey, we decided as a family not to visit. Not being able to see her one last time we said our good-byes over a phone that a chaplain held to her ear.

Going through the grieving process has helped me have a deeper understanding of others grieving.

Continued on page 11

Melesha Bailey

Jacqueline Jadidian

Sugar

continued from page 10

better option. Berries, plums, and oranges are great sweeteners. Add a smashed banana to oatmeal, or blend frozen fruits into a smoothie. Skip diet soda, energy drinks, sweet teas, and fruit juices. Many foods labeled healthy have sugar, and artificial sugar content is off the charts. Reading labels is vital.   There are many conflicting studies and analyses about artificial sweeteners. Use with caution. I always recommend that my clients avoid both sugar and sugar substitutes. The goal is to decrease sugar cravings. It’s hard, but it’s possible with

patience and time. Suppose you have health issues from the effects of too much sugar in your diet. Your body can heal as you eliminate sugar. I have helped many lower their A1C, lose weight and become healthier. If you are struggling, I can help you too.

Supermarket Tour Event

Join Love 4 Life Wellness for a supermarket tour Saturday, March 18th, at the HY-Vee on Sunshine at 10:00 am. We will be reading labels and demonstrating healthier food options. Contact me in advance for information regarding the tour at melesha@ love4lifewellness.com or 417-3002796.

Death & Dying

continued from page 10

I learned a few things, and I hope these insights will help others understand.

1. Some people may cry, and cry a lot, while others may not cry and show emotion, at least in public view. People carry their emotions differently, and someone that is visibly less emotional does not mean they don’t feel anything.

2. There is a season for everything, especially grieving. The important part is not to remain in the lows. Seek a therapist or a trusted individual to help you navigate and cope with the loss.

3. There is absolutely no

shame in saying you’re not okay. Admitting you’re not okay is strength, and that’s when you can begin to move forward towards healing and serenity.

Billings

continued from page 8 named it after Norval Stafford, the first Black veteran from Springfield to die from his injuries during World War I. Sadly, Myrl Billings did not survive to see the post receive its official charter. On July 10, 1928, the post received its charter. Myrl Billings is buried in Springfield Lincoln Memorial Cemetery. He was only 23 when he gave his life for his country.

Audition Notice for SLT and Mosaic Arts Collective, Moana Jr

Springfield, MO— The Springfield Little Theatre Education Department and Mosaic Arts Collective are excited to present Disney’s Moana, Jr.!!

Placement auditions for performers ages 6-18 will be held Friday, March 3, 2023 at 7:00 PM at The Judith Enyeart Reynolds School of the Performing Arts for Springfield Little Theatre.

At the auditions, participants will be taught a brief movement combination, a portion of a song from the show, and will be given a short line reading. Placement callbacks will be held on Saturday, March 4, 2023 starting at 6:00 PM.

Check-out the MOANA, JR. AUDITION WORKSHOP on Thursday, March 2, 2023 and get a jump-start on the competition!

The first company meeting and rehearsal will be held Wednesday, March 8, 2023 from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM. Rehearsals will be Sundays – Thursdays from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM. Not everyone will be called for every rehearsal.

Performances will be presented Friday, April 28, 2023 at 7:00 PM, Saturday, April 29, 2023 at 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM, Sunday, April 30, 2023 at 2:00 PM, Thursday, May 4 at 7:00 PM, Friday, May 5 at 7:00 PM, Saturday, May

6 at 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM, and Sunday, May 7 at 2:00 PM in The Reynolds Auditorium at The Judy. A participation fee/ tuition of $175 helps to meet some of the costs of the project. (Payment plan and full scholarship options availabile upon registration.)

With support from the Community Foundation of The Ozarks we have scholarships available!

Apply Today for the Diversity Internship & Scholarship Program by Central Bank.

Central Bank is pleased to offer a two-year paid diversity Internship/scholarship to assist local high school graduates; or currently enrolled college students with at least two years left in their undergraduate in their pursuit of higher education. In addition to earning $15/hour, the recipient will receive $2,000.00 per semester, totaling $8,000.00.

Must be attending, Missouri State University (Springfield), Evangel, Drury University, OTC (Springfield/Ozark), or other Southwest-Missouri colleges. Included is a paid part-time internship to supplement educational opportunities and income, and to enhance the educational process.

The program is designed to gain awareness with minority students about career opportunities at Central Bank and within the Central Bancompany family so they might be encouraged to seek employment with us once they have obtained their undergraduate degree. Application forms are due by April 21, 2023.

For more information, please contact your school’s counselor, or a member of our HR team at Central Bank 417-841-4426.

MOANA, JR. is presented by the Springfield Little Theatre Education Department and Mosaic Arts

Collective with support from the Community Foundation of The Ozarks.

We need your help finding old photos, home movies in Silver Springs Park

Springfield, MO— Last year, Plotline, A Girl Like Me, Timmons Hall and the UniteNews Publication collaborated on a project to to highlight the historic ParkDay Reunion Celebration and Silver Springs Park.

The ParkDay Reunion Celebration is one of the longest running African American events in Springfield. Traditionally celebrated on the first weekend in August, the event takes place in Silver Springs Park, Springfield’s only public park open to black residents during segregation. Park Day festivities fill three days and are held at venues all over Springfield.

With help from the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, the four collaborating organizations were able to fund part of the project. While the group 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.

If you have any of the following items, we ask that you contact

Samuel Knox, UniteNews publication (417) 864-7444, email: unitepublication@yahoo.com or Christine Peoples, Timmons Hall (417) 983-1171, email: researchrethinkreimagine@gmail.com

Looking for photos of:

• Silver Springs Park Pre 1965-1975

• Aeiral photos of Silver Springs Park Pre 1965

• Older buildings no longer standing in the park

• Housing around Silver Springs Park Pre 1965

• Black families in the Silver Springs Park

• Sporting events in Silver Springs Park

• People celebrating at the Park Day Reunion Celebration

• Activities in Silver Springs Park Pre 1965-1975

If you have photos you would like to share, please contact us anytime between March 1 and March 15, 2023. We can do a quick digital scan within seconds while you wait. We will make sure all your photos are handled with care. You will also recieve recognition and credit for the use of your photo in the final project.

Jamerson

continued from page 9

Quickly, I bought a one-way ticket to LA through Allegiant Air. I left everything else behind except my clothes, my MPC Music Production Center, and my keyboard that I shipped with my car. I officially moved to Los Angeles March 15, 2017.

Upon arriving in LA, I found out that another engineer had the job I was supposed to get, so I panicked. I eventually got my foot in the door and was working in the studio when a group was holding auditions for an act named Jorge Blanco. My job was to turn on the sound and ensure everything was fine. They bring

in a bunch of keyboard players to try out for the artist. For the first time, I am hearing all these great musicians rip music, and I say to myself this is crazy. It was a reality check for me, that I needed to step it up.

After the audition, the music director and the artist were still in the room, and I joined their conversation. The director asked me if I played keyboards, and I said humbly, “I play a little bit.” He was impressed with my knowledge and asked for my name and Instagram. After listening to some of my playing on Instagram, he later messaged me telling me that he thought I could play really well.

Fast forward, he called me for a gig when they had issues

locking down a keys’ player. I was on standby, and an hour later, he called me to pack my bags as we were going on tour in Europe. We traveled to several countries, including the UK, France, Poland, Netherlands, Czech Republic, and Austria, among others. This was my big break into the music industry.

UniteNews: Can you mention some of the artists you’ve played for?

Pierre: I’ve played for BTS, Kiana Lede, Yuna, Jorge Blanco, Bea Miller, among others. I’ve written songs with Kiana Lede, such as ‘Chocolate. (feat. Ari Lennox).’ and ‘Movin.’ and I’ve written and produced songs with Yuna for her Album Y5 ‘Can’t Get Over You’ ‘Relax Your Mind’ ‘Enough’ and the highest streaming song we have which is ‘Fool 4 U’

UniteNews: What has been your most rewarding experience in the music industry?

Pierre: My most rewarding experience has been writing and producing music that I believe in. Traveling the world to perform on major stages and venues. I’ve met several major artists and legendary musicians. I’ve played on TV for BET Music Awards and, more recently, the American Music Awards show. Finally, by far the most rewarding thing is keeping my mom informed on my next moves!

UniteNews: What are some lessons you’ve learned from your experiences in the music business?

Pierre: I’ve learned that attitude

is everything, and how you conduct yourself professionally is what gets you the callback. Being pleasant to be around is important, and staying focused and on top of your craft is crucial. If you’re passionate about something, you must do it wholeheartedly for the love of doing it, not just for the money. There are no shortcuts, and it’s a building process.

UniteNews: What does your future in the music industry look like?

Pierre: In the future, I want to start a record label and A&R for artists and continue to write and produce music for talented Artists. An A&R (artists and repertoire) representative is responsible for finding promising new artists for a record label or music publisher to sign. l plan to have some hits under my name while taking care of my family, my wife, Karina and our daughter Alaya.

Lastly, I want to thank Mr. Sam Knox and Unite for the opportunity to tell a brief story in this interview. Most importantly, I could not do any of this without the grace of God, I thank him and when I’m not on the road performing music, I play at Cali Worship Center on Sundays, Who’s Pastors are Warryn Campbell, Grammy Award winning producer and songwriter and his wife, Erica Campbell who’s half of the artist Mary Mary. If you don’t already, follow me on social media to keep up with the latest! Instagram @pierrejamerson

Photo was provided by Pierre Jamerson

Springfield Police Department 2023-2025 Goals and Objectives

by Chief Paul Williams

Springfield, MO—As a means of guiding and directing our activities, the Springfield Police Department (SPD) undertakes the process of creating a strategic plan every three years. This strategic plan for the Springfield Police Department is referred to as Goals and Objectives.

Previous 3-year plan are available on the SPD website. The plan is drafted by the SPD Leadership Council. The Leadership Council is made up of a broad representation of the department including officers and civilians from all ranks and areas. During the development of the 2023-2025 Goals and Objectives. The Leadership Council sought and incorporated input from Springfield City Council, the City Manager’s office and the

Chief’s Citizen’s Advisory Group. This ensured that the final plan would include thoughts, ideas and direction from all aspects of the community. The 2023-2025 SPD Goals and Objectives includes eight main categories:

1) Crime Reduction

2) Leadership and Communication

3) Staffing

4) Facilities, Technology, and Equipment

5) Career Development

6) Health and Wellness

7) Community Engagement

8) Commitment to the International Association of the Chiefs of Police (IACP) 25 Key Policies and Promising Practices

Crime reduction is, and has been, the number one priority for SPD.

This goal includes a focus on violent crime involving firearms, methods for impacting overall crime, and working to address the issue of mental health. Other highlights from the plan include improving internal department communication, increasing staffing levels (for officers and professional staff) by following the established recruiting plan, identifying and obtaining new technology and equipment to assist with crime reduction and patrol activities, a continued focus on employee wellness, and supporting participation on and off duty in the community by department personnel. The final category speaks to the Trust Building Campaign established by the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP). The Springfield Police Department was one of the first agencies to pledge to imple-

ment all 25 policies and practices to enhance trust between the department and the community.

The SPD Goals and Objectives identify the person or group primarily responsible for seeking to accomplish each objective and list specific performance measures to use to determine the success of those efforts. The Goals and Objectives are evaluated on an annual basis and a detailed update is completed at year’s end. The updates are made available for review by the public on the SPD website.

If you are interested in more details about what your police department is focusing on in the next three years, you can find the 2023-2025 SPD Goals and Objectives on our website https://www.springfieldmo. gov/5631/Police