2023 Sept Unite

Brecka Henderson

Vic Vaughn

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, Gwen Marshall

CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Vickie Hicks

CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Darline Mabins

CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Heather Noggle

Fall is the season for all senses. The feel of cooler temperatures after a long summer. A warm, visually pleasing palate of reds, oranges and browns. The taste of pumpkin spice in everything.

My wife and I relish our journeys through fall festivals in the Ozarks. Hand-made crafts and seasonal delicacies captivate us, offering a chance to connect with new friends and gather inspiration for holiday decorations.

In this edition, we share a list of the most popular fall festivals. Additionally, read about Father Moses Berry, an esteemed inductee into the Missouri Public Affairs Hall of Fame. Brecka Henderson and Vic Vaughn earned well-deserved victories in the Great Route 66 Talent Show at the Birthplace of Route 66 Festival.

Explore snapshots from the 2023 ParkDay Reunion Weekend and the Route 66 Festival—moments suspended in time.

Let’s embrace this season of the senses, where every sight, sound, and flavor captures the essence of change. Let’s celebrate the bonds formed and accomplishments attained.

As always, if you have news or stories to share, we welcome your emails and calls. Your contributions enrich our content. Enjoy our September issue!

Best,

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

CREATIVE TEAM

GRAPHIC DESIGN, Bradley Knox

WEB DEVELOPER, Christopher Palma

UniteNews 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 UniteNews 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 UniteNews 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

Brentwood Chapel - University Chapel Crematory - Columbarium

Brentwood Chapel - University Chapel

Independent

SELECTED

Licensed Funeral Directors of Distinction

The Silly Grandpa will perform family fun songs on Saturday, September 16, at 10 a.m. in the Library Center auditorium. Michael ‘Supe’ Grandpa of the Ozark Mountain Daredevils will perform songs from his new album, “Lucky Number,” where the songs are silly, but the grooves are serious. Silly Grandpa’s motto is, “We’re serious about our silliness”!

®

FUNERAL HOMES

SELECTED FUNERAL HOMES Independent

•••

®

®

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

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

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

We’re built for now. And the road ahead. commercebank.com/BuiltForThis ©2023 Commerce Bancshares, Inc. WF1683963 SW Springfield Unite Publication Ad 4.875x4.875.indd 1 7/28/2023 4:23:00 PM

As we look to the future, the buzzword seems to be “AI” and its impact on business and our personal lives. The Library’s Bagels with the Better Business Bureau series will present ‘AI: The Pros and Cons for your Business’ on September 26 at 8:00 a.m. at the Schweitzer Brentwood Branch Library. Like any tool, Generative AI has both positive and negative aspects. Chris Jarrett from Revel Advertising will talk about AI basics and how it can be helpful to your team. Pamela Hernandez, Regional Director with the Better Business Bureau, will discuss how scammers are using AI as a new way to catch your business in old scams.

•••

Are you looking to add more than a book to your family? Please stop by the Library Center patio on Saturday, October 7, from 9 a.m. to noon, as we welcome Havaheart Rescue, Castaway Animal Rescue Effort (C.A.R.E) and Watching over Whiskers for an adoption event. Before you adopt, visit our pet book display for books and DVDs on caring for pets, dog training and even books to read to your new friend.

•••

Enjoy jazz? The Brueggeman Gouge Jazz Band, led by trumpeter Mark Brueggeman and percussionist Jeff Gouge, will play small group jazz that ranges from the works of the Benny Goodman quartet to those of Miles Davis. This concert is free in the Library Center auditorium on Sunday, October 8, at 2 p.m. In addition, they perform many Great American Songbook tunes sung by artists such as Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett and Ella Fitzgerald. Sponsored by Friends of the Library.

•••

For more information on these and other great programs, visit thelibrary.org. Vickie Hicks is the community relations director of the Springfield-Greene County Library District. She can be reached at vickieh@thelibrary.org.

From Jazz Band to AI and it’s positive and negative impact, all at the Library

Berry is inducted into Hall of Fame

Springfield, MO—Moses Berry is one of five inductees who was selected into the Missouri Public Affairs Hall of Fame 2023. The inductee are citizens with a connection to the state of Missouri who serve as examples of global citizens. They define the essence of public affairs and have acted consistently for the benefit of others.

Father Moses Berry is a priest of the Eastern Orthodox Church in America practicing in Missouri. He’s spent much of his life on a spiritual quest. It led him to found the Ozarks Afro-American Heritage Museum on his family’s legacy farm in Ash Grove. Berry lectures locally and nationally on

COGIC recognizes Clark for her dedication and of support of the Department of Women

Springfield, MO—Last month Gertha Clark, Assistant Supervisor of the Women’s Department of the Church Of God In Christ recieved a plaque of recognition. Clark was recognized for her support and dedication to the Department of Women under the Missouri Western Second Jurisdiction.

The plaque was presented by Sanctuary of Praise and authorized by Bishop John M. Johnson, Prelate and Mary K. Sims, Supervisor, DOW.

Mother Gertha Clark has been a faithful member and committed supporter of the Church of God in Christ for most of her life.

Winners of the 2023 Route 66 Talent Search Contest

Springfield, MO— Musicians, singers, dancers, comedians, baton twirlers, poets, magicians and anyone else with a talent to share was invited to bring their skills to the Great Route 66 Talent Show at the Birthplace of Route 66 Festival.

KY3 and the City of Springfield were proud to host the inaugural talent competition, which was free to enter. There were categories for both Amateur and Professional performers.

A panel of four local judges, well versed in the entertainment industry, reviewed the videos of the semifinals and determined 10 Professional acts and 10 Amateur acts to advance to the final live competition. Judging criteria

include: 25% showmanship, 25% execution of performance, 25% general audience appeal, and 25% technical skill.

Congratulation to Brecka Henderson, worship leader at Deliverance Temple Ministries, who won the amateur round and Vic Vaughn musician and singer at Washington Avenue Baptist Church won the professional round. As winners in the Great Route 66 Talent Search they will now compete for a chance to perform on NBC’s America’s Got Talent!

Springfield City Councilwoman Monica Horton and Sam Timmerman, founder of the Melody Room, served as two of the four judges.

African American history and on issues in African American spirituality and Orthodox Christian mission.

Father Moses Berry

Mother Gertha Clark

Brecka Henderson Vic Vaughn

New location offers expanded space for entrepreneurs

economic growth of our community, and we want to see them continue to thrive.”

Vision becoming reality

When efactory opened in 2013, it was a one-stop-shop for entrepreneurs. The center still prides itself on providing this suite of services today, including:

• No-cost business consultations and mentorship.

• Space to start and grow your business, with private offices starting at just 150 square feet.

• Shared spaces and amenities to reduce overhead costs and barriers to entrepreneurship.

• Training on business fundamentals. Beyond that, efactory has grown to encompass more programming for businesses and employers in the area, no matter where they are in the lifecycle. This includes corporate training, certifications, talent attraction and retention, and more.

by Nicki Donnelson, UniteNews Contributing Writer

In recent years, traditional office jobs have changed. Some changes can be traced to improved technology and a globalized economy. Other changes came as COVID-19 forced companies to accommodate remote work.

During this evolution, the demand for coworking space spiked at Missouri State University’s efactory (405 N. Jefferson), and a second space in the Plaster Free Enterprise Center was dedicated as coworking space.

At efactory’s 10th Anniversary Celebration on July 19, efactory announced the opening of a third coworking space at Brick City building 3. These semi-private offices, called Coworking @ Brick, located on the third floor of Brick City 3, are now available for remote workers, small businesses and entrepreneurs.

“Coworking space is phenomenal for building synergy, sharing resources, networking and brainstorming,” said Rachel Anderson, executive director of efactory.

The space in Brick City is directly across the street from the Plaster Free Enterprise Center, allowing tenants easy access to all the same amenities and resources available there.

#1 City for remote workers

This addition comes quick on the heels of The Wall Street Journal recognizing Springfield as the #1 city for remote workers. Some of the attributes noted in the ranking were:

• The relatively low cost of living.

• Quality of life (like reveling in the beauty of the Ozarks).

• Resources, like high-speed internet.

• Access to an airport that connects to larger hubs.

Support services at efactory –

including coworking spaces, business support resources and talent development opportunities – are a major factor in improving the professional life for remote workers.

“We keep track of the pulse of the business economy so we can anticipate needs and make necessary moves quickly. This agility lets us help more people fulfill their potential,” Anderson said. “Our members are vital to the

The Springfield community has a rich history of entrepreneurship, innovation and economic vitality. The mural in the front door of efactory is a nod to many well-known businesses that call Springfield home (Bass Pro, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Andy’s, etc.).

Now, the staff at efactory stand poised to offer people in the region what they need to succeed in their careers.

efactory’s space in Brick City offers semi-private options

Springfield Art Museum Acquires Interactive Sculpture By Hank Willis Thomas

Springfield, MO.  – The Springfield Art Museum is pleased to announce the acquisition and installation of the interactive sculpture Ernest and Ruth by Hank Willis Thomas. Thomas is a prominent contemporary Black artist who uses photography, sculpture, and installation work to explore issues of identity, history, race, class, and popular culture.

Thomas was born in New Jersey and is currently based in New York City, where he is represented by the Jack Shainman Gallery. He received a BFA in Photography and Africana Studies from New York University and an MA in Visual Criticism and an MFA in Photography from California College of the Arts. His work has been exhibited extensively both nationally and internationally. His work is also in numerous public collections including The Brooklyn Museum, the Guggenheim Museum, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Whitney Museum of American Art.

Ernest and Ruth – named after Thomas’ grandparents - is both a sculpture and a bench shaped like a cartoon speech bubble. It offers visitors a place to sit, to rest, and to interact with the work and with each other. It literally puts the public in public art. While seated on the bench, the viewer becomes “enclosed” in the speech bubble. The work invites dialogue about art and promotes discourse and listening. Thomas says, “When viewers occupy the piece, they are encouraged to contemplate what it

means to inhabit their own speech and beliefs.”

The installation of this work on the Museum’s grounds – on the Hatch Foundation Lawn - creates an intentionally interactive experience that contrasts with the Museum’s other current outdoor sculpture offerings. Other intentionally interactive sculptures like Rebecca Hackemann’s Visionary Sightseeing Binocular and Shawn Bitters’ Burn Out are currently uninstalled but will return to the Museum’s grounds in the future. The curves and rounded form of Ernest and Ruth provide a counter-experience to the hard edges and lines of other monumental sculptures or smaller contemplative figurative or abstract works currently sited on the Museum’s grounds.

This work was purchased, by exchange, through gifts of Ronald K., Robert C., and Larry H. Greenburg. Prior to this acquisition, the Museum had no work by Hank Willis Thomas in the collection. The Springfield Art Museum is located at 1111 East Brookside Drive. Admission is always free. Donations are gratefully accepted.

UPCOMING EVENTS

PARK

Frizz Fest Natural Beauty Festival in St. Louis

Sat., Sept. 16

Reserve your seat to travel to the Frizz Fest Natural Beauty Festival St. Louis’ Tower Grove Park — a Timmons Hall Culture Connect Tour. The festival’s mission is to encourage self-love and inspire confidence among women, with music and dancing, hair fair, beauty demonstrations, fashion show, vendors, community corner and more. Fee includes transportation.

Age: 18 yrs. and up

Time: 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

Fee: $75/Person

History Keepers Snack & Share

Sat., Sept. 30

Snack while you share your stories and help Timmons Hall document people, places and histories. Bring photos and artifacts in to be scanned or photographed on site, to help preserve local history. This session focuses on “The Hollow” community and Silver Springs Park history.

Age: 18 yrs. and up

Time: 10-11:30 a.m.

Fee: Free

Timmons Hall Volunteer Day | Thurs., Oct.12

Learn how you can be a part of Timmons Hall’s educational history programs, outreach efforts and connect tours. Sign up to volunteer, host or collaborate.

Age: 18 yrs. and up

Time: 10:30-11:45 a.m.

Fee: Free

REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Timmons Hall in Silver Springs Park 1055 E. Webster, Springfield, Mo. | 417-983-1171

ParkBoard.org/TimmonsHall

Phishing:

fraudulent practice

of

sending emails or other messages

by Heather Noggle UniteNews Contributing Writer

If you catch a phish, will it feed you for a day? Maybe? It’s trying to steal something from you.

Cybersecurity terms have English equivalents we can all relate to, so in this column, here are some common cybersecurity terms about the different types of fraud criminals are using with computer and Internet-based attacks.

Some history first: confidence scams, or cons date back to ancient times. Many are detailed in The Bible, including when Jacob tricked Isaac into believing he was (older) twin brother Esau. Then Jacob found himself tricked by his uncle in a bride switcheroo.

In the 20th century, a man named Victor Lustig sold the Eiffel Tower. TWICE. (He didn’t own it). He’s got a Springfield connection, as he died here in 1947 at the Federal Medical Center.

Fraud. Scams. The 21st century term for persuading people in a way that might be against their interests is called social engineer. Usually, now, these scams involve computers or phones – something digital. A man named Kevin Mitnick was a master social engineer and computer hacker, and he died recently,

The

years after changing his career to benefit people instead of break into their systems.

Phishing is a social engineering term you’ve probably encountered. Using email to compel, persuade, cajole, influence, or prompt people to click on links in emails, visit sites that might spread malware onto their computers or open them up to further scams. Some phishing emails are obviously scams, but others are elaborate and meticulous and look similar to real emails. Be wary of all email – it’s not a person standing in front of you. Verify what it’s asking you to do another way –not calling a number in the email or clicking the link.

Voice phishing – these same sorts of prompts in voice mail – is called vishing. Text message phishing? SMShing (or smishing) – after SMS, which is the texting protocol. There’s even QR code phishing –quishing. Scammers will overlay the original QR codes with stickers with another QR code, so be wary of things like restaurant menus. You might want to ask for paper menus if they’re available.

There’s another alarming term that doesn’t obviously mean what it seems: pig butchering. This term applies to romance scams and relationship building with the ultimate goal to bilk the target of money, lots of money. These often start with the attacker asking the target to move to WhatsApp or a more private platform than Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn. Yes, the target is the “pig,” or, more accurately, the pig’s money. It’s a cruel scam that plays out over time.

Navigating

College

Scholarship

Opportunities: A Guide for Springfield High School Students

Springfield, MO — As high school students set their sights on higher education, the journey can be financially daunting. However, there’s a myriad of scholarship opportunities available that can help ease the burden of tuition fees and other educational expenses.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how African American students can effectively search for college scholarships:

Start Early: It’s never too early to begin researching scholarship opportunities. Begin your search in your sophomore or junior year of high school to give yourself ample time to find and apply for a variety of scholarships.

Utilize Online Resources: Numerous websites and databases are dedicated to compiling scholarship information for various demographics, including African American students. Websites like Fastweb, Scholarship.com, and UNCF.org are excellent places to start your search.

Check with Local Organizations: Many community and civic organizations, as well as churches, offer scholarships specifically for African American students. Reach out to local chapters of national organizations or search online for local scholarships in your area.

Explore Cultural and Identity-Based Scholarships: There are many scholarships that are specifically designed to support students from underrepresented backgrounds. Organizations like the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), NAACP, and Thurgood Marshall College Fund offer scholarships for African American students.

Research Colleges and Universities: Many colleges and universities offer scholarships to attract diverse

student populations. Explore the financial aid and scholarship pages of the institutions you’re interested in to see if there are any opportunities specifically aimed at African American students.

Network and Attend Events: Attend college fairs, workshops, and seminars that focus on scholarships and financial aid. These events often provide valuable information on available scholarships and the application process.

Tap into High School Resources: Your high school guidance counselor is an excellent resource for scholarship information. They can provide you with local opportunities, guide you through the application process, and offer assistance with recommendation letters.

Tailor Your Applications: Each scholarship has specific criteria and requirements. Tailor your applications to match the scholarship’s focus and goals. Highlight your achievements, community involvement, and leadership experiences.

Stay Organized: Keep track of application deadlines and requirements using a calendar or spreadsheet. Missing deadlines can result in missed opportunities. Write Compelling Essays: Many scholarships require personal essays. Take your time to craft thoughtful and well-written essays that showcase your unique experiences, aspirations, and accomplishments.

The path to funding your college education may seem challenging, but with thorough research, dedication, and a proactive approach, you can uncover numerous scholarship opportunities that can make your dreams of higher education a reality.

Scholarship Resource Guide For Diverse High School Students

Name of Scholarship:

Central Bank of the Ozarks Diversity Scholarship/ Internship

For minority seniors interested in the area of Business attending college in the area

Clifton F. & Lorane S. McCormic Endowed Scholarship

For graduating African American students at Central High School

Thomas L & Ursalee Cole-Darton Endowed Scholarship

For graduating African American and Hispanic students who want to continue their education

George Floyd & David Dorn Scholarship

For students who demonatrate interest in promoting a society that is just, equitable and inclusive of all Wallace & Libby Walter Scholarship

For African American students from Springfield, MO

NAACP Springfield Branch Youth Scholarship

For graduating minority students

Jacquelin Waugh Foster Scholarship

For graduating minority students

For Guidelines Contact:

Central Bank of the Ozarks 1800 S. Glenstone Ave, Springfield, MO 65804 Attn: Anta’ Williams

For Guidelines Contact: Foundation for Springfield Public Schools, 1131 Boonville Ave., Springfield , Mo 65802

For Guidelines Contact: Community Foundation of the Ozarks

P.O. Box 8960, Springfield , Mo 65801

For Guidelines Contact: Missouri State University Foundation

300 S. Jefferson Ave Suite 100 Springfield, MO 65806

For Guidelines Contact: Community Foundation of the Ozarks

P.O. Box 8960, Springfield , Mo 65801

For Guidelines Contact: https://www.naacpspringfieldmo.org/home.html

For Guidelines Contact: https://www.naacpspringfieldmo.org/home.html

417-873-6986

For guideline details on any of these scholarships listed, please contact Lawrence Anderson, Office of Equity & Access, Springfield Public Schools (417) 523-0064

Your Health & Wellness News

Aging Healthy and Gracefully: A Holistic Approach

by Melesha Bailey, UniteNews Contributing Writer

Springfield, MO— September is Healthy Aging Month, an annual observance to bring attention to growing older positively and encourage proactive steps to improve physical, mental, social, and financial well-being as we age. Healthy lifestyle choices and behaviors contribute to a better quality of life in older adults. Regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, staying mentally and socially active, managing stress, getting regular checkups, and taking steps to prevent chronic health issues contribute

to growing older gracefully.

To age healthy means to grow older while maintaining physical, emotional, and mental well-being at all stages of the aging process. It will take a holistic approach encompassing various health and wellness attributes.

Here are some critical components of healthy aging:

• Physical Well-being: Maintaining a healthy body with regular physical activity and eating a balanced diet of good proteins, carbs, and fats. Getting enough sleep,

hydration, and managing chronic conditions play a crucial role in physical health. Regular exercise helps cardiovascular health, maintains muscle mass, enhances flexibility, and improves overall physical functions.

• Mental and Cognitive Health: Keeping the mind active and engaged is crucial for healthy aging. Activities such as reading, puzzles, games, and learning new skills can support and preserve mental function and help prevent cognitive decline, which can be signs of confusion or memory

loss.

• Emotional Well-being: Healthy aging involves ways to manage stress and emotional challenges. Being resilient, staying connected to loved ones, pursuing hobbies, and practicing mindfulness such as meditation, journaling, or deep breathing contribute to emotional well-being.

• Social Engagement: Staying socially active is essential for maintaining a sense of belonging and combating feelings of isolation which many older people feel as they age. Regular visits with family, friends, and community members can positively affect mental and emotional health.

Continued on page 11

“A Guide to Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period”

by Mahailia Boyd, UniteNews Contrributing Writer

Springfield, MO— Assisting someone with Medicare benefits before turning 65 involves understanding the enrollment process, available-coverage options, and important deadlines. Here’s a guide with general steps to help you navigate the Medicare enrollment process: Medicare has specific enrollment periods, and it’s essential to know when they apply to avoid penalties or gaps in coverage. The Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is the most crucial, which starts three months before the person’s 65th birthday as well

as some younger individuals with specific disabilities.

In addition to:

• General Enrollment Period if you missed the IEP;

• Special Enrollment Period if you have qualifying circumstance like employment-based coverage;

• Annual Enrollment Period for changes to Medicare Advantage and Part D plans (October 15-December 7).

First, gather all necessary personal information including your legal name, Social Security number, address, and contact details. You will need to compile a list of all prescription medications including name, dose, and dosage.

Second, check your eligibility for premium-free Part A and evaluate whether they need to enroll in Part B. If the individual is still working or has group-health coverage through their or their spouse’s employer, they may delay Part B enrollment without facing penalties. In other words, decide between the two main parts of Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance.) Also, you may need to consider additional coverage Part C (Medicare Advantage) and Part

D (prescription drug coverage).

Third, Medicare information can be confusing. I would encourage you to attend locally-held educational seminars that can provide insights into the program, benefits, and how to choose the right coverage options. Also, the official Medicare website, www.medicare. gov offers a wealth of information. In conclusion, here are some key questions to consider: Are you in good health or do

Continued on page 11

Mahalia Boyd

Melesha Bailey

Aging Healthy

continued from page 10

• Preventative Healthcare: Regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations can help detect and prevent health issues many older people encounter as they age. Preventive healthcare can contribute to a longer, healthier life.

• Financial Security: Planning retirement to ensure financial security can alleviate stress and provide peace of mind as we age. According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, 29% of adults have no defined plan or retirement savings. And for Black Americans, those numbers are lower.

For Black people aging comes with challenges that affect aging:

• Health Disparities: Black healthcare access and outcomes based on race impact overall health as we age.

• Skin and Hair Changes: As people age, changes in skin and hair are common. Black people may experience changes in pigmentation, texture, and elasticity. Use sunscreen and moisturizers to maintain healthy skin.

• Cultural Perspectives and Celebrations: Different cultures have unique perspectives on aging. Floyd M Wylie’s study on attitudes toward aging and older people among blacks states that blacks perceive old age as a reward and are less likely to deny their advanced age. In the African diaspora, we honor and celebrate elderly members of the community. We accept aging as a badge of honor.

As we age, it’s essential to be adaptable and resilient in the face of life’s changes, maintain a positive attitude and find ways to stay engaged for fulfillment, happiness, and joy. We are diverse, and our experience with aging varies. Addressing disparities, promoting access to healthcare, and fostering inclusive and supportive environments are necessary to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, can age with dignity, gracefully, and in good health. My motto is “Live the Rest of Your Life as The Best of Your Life.”

Open Enrollment

continued from page 10

you have chronic conditions or special medical needs? Which prescription drugs do you take regularly? How much do you spend each month? What doctors do you see regularly and for what kind of care? Are you eligible for any healthcare coverage besides Medicare (for example Department of Veterans Affairs)? Will you keep work-related coverages when you retire? How does healthcare fit into your budget? Do you expect similar costs this year compared to last year? Remember the enrollment process may vary slightly based on your circumstances and the specific Medicare plans you choose. It’s important to research and understand your options thoroughly to make informed decisions about your Medicare coverages. Primerica has partnered with e-TeleQuote’s easy Medicare to help YOU make

the process of selecting a Medicare plan easier. I’ll be happy to assist you get connected. Don’t delay!

by Mahalia Boyd, Primerica Life Company &

Financial Services

Cell 417.414.0230

e-TeleQuotes easyMedicare

Referral no. 1.800.579.2152

Last Name: BOYD Solution no. EDW7U

2023 Fall Festivals In The Ozarks

Seymour Apple Festival

This three-day long festival is all apple-themed.

September 7–9

Seymour, Missouri

Admission is free

Japanese Fall Festival

Celebrate Japanese culture and Springfield’s sister city relationship with Isesaki, Japan at the Japanese Fall Festival.

September 8–10

Autumn Daze

Find a wide range of activities and vendors at Autumn Daze.

September 14–16

Branson, Missouri

Admission is free

Applefest

Celebrate the fall harvest and support a local orchard in a loving community at Applefest.

September 15–16

Marionville, Missouri

Admission is free

Shakin’ in the Shell Fest

Everything you want from a fall festival can be found at Shakin’ in the Shell Fest.

September 15–16

Shell Knob, Missouri

Admission is free

Cider Days

Kick off the season and taste flavors of fall at Cider Days this year.

September 16–17

Historic Walnut Street in Springfield,

Missouri

Tickets sold online or at the door of the festival.

Black Walnut Festival

Bring the whole family to have some seasonal fun and celebrate the history in the area at the Black Walnut Festival.

September 21–30

Stockton, Missouri

Admission is free

Marshfield Harvest Days

Discover that fall festival feeling and enjoy the best parts of the season at Marshfield Harvest Days.

September 29–30

Marshfield, Missouri

Admission is free

Pioneer Heritage Festival

Celebrate traditional culture and heritage of the Ozarks at the Pioneer Heritage Festival.

September 29–30

Ava, Missouri

Admission is free

Ozark Arts and Crafts Fair

Find something original and handmade to take home at the Ozark Arts and Crafts Fair.

October 6–8

Ozark, Missouri

Admission is free

Apple Butter Makin Days

October 13-15

Mt Vernon, Missouri

Admission is free

2023 ParkDay Reunion Celebration

Photo Gallery

Children

Kia

The

The 2023 Central High School Football coach and team

Kim Hardin and Kimberly Mills with friend at Parkday Parade

Jim Bultus interviewing Harold McPherson at Timmons Hall in Silver Springs Park

Photos top left to right: Nicole Looney, and Leslie Hardin Springfield ParkDay Reunion Club Vice-President and President

watching the ParkDay Parade

Sutton walking with group holding the NAACP banner

Central High School Kilties Drum & Bugle Corps

2023 ParkDay Reunion Celebration

Photo Gallery

Photos top left to right: Gloria Hereford and the Mama G’s Kitchen and Lovely Creations staff

DC Adams riding motorcycle

Danny Adams riding motorcycle

Parkview Vikettes and Cheryl Clay serving at the ParkDay Picknic

Jim Bultus interviewing James Whayne at the ParkDay Picnic

People being served at the ParkDay Picnic

Nora England providing support during the ParkDay Picnic

•

FREE HEALTHCARE FOR THE UNINSURED!

The MSU Care Clinic is a joint venture between Mercy Springield Communities and Missouri State University to increase heathcare access by providing free health servics and medications to our patients and providing educational clinical practice to future health professionals.

Appointments: Call 417-837-2270 to schedule an appointment

Hours of operation:

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 8 am - 5 pm

(Closed for Lunch 12 pm - 12:45 pm) Thursday 10 am - 7 pm

(Closed for Lunch 1 pm - 1:45 pm)

Location:

Missouri State University

O’Reilly Clinical Health Sciences Center

640 East Cherry St., Room 105 Springfield, MO 65806

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