2024 April Unite

Navigating the PlantBased Diet Path: Pros & Cons of adopting plantbased eating Page 10

Applicants encouraged to apply for Clifton Moore Jr.

Minority Scholarship Page 13

Springfield’s Black Military Men Remembered for Courage and Sacrifice Page 5

Ride E-Way in style this spring!

Scooter Company Page 12

From the Editor

April 1 marks the beginning of National Minority Health Month, an observance focusing on disparities in healthcare outcomes among racial and ethnic minority groups, as well as American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities.

In Springfield, the NAACP has made strides in promoting transparency and accountability in the upcoming April 2nd school board election. The release of a Score Card evaluating the stances of seven school board candidates sheds light on their positions regarding crucial issues such as Achievement Gaps, Improvement Plans, Banned Books, Safety, and Diversity Equity and Inclusion. This resource allows voters to make informed decisions by understanding where each candidate stands on these pivotal matters.

Congratulations are in order for the four young men who will graduate at the top of their class, exemplifying excellence and dedication in their academic pursuits. Additionally, recognition is extended to two outstanding members of the community who will be honored by the Springfield Business Journal for their contributions and accomplishments.

Last but not least, plan to get your tickets to see jazz great, Branford Marsalis and the Missouri Jazz Orchestra at the Gillioz Theatre on April 6, 2024.

As always, we extend an open invitation to our readers. If you have news or stories to share, please reach out to us via email or phone. Your contributions play a significant role in enriching our content and strengthening our community bonds. So, dive into our April issue and celebrate the history with us!

Best,

Samuel G. Knox President & Managing 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, Heather Noggle

CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Mahalia Boyd

SOCIAL MEDIA, Allie Goin, Sidekick Social

SOCIAL MEDIA, Jessica Matschiner, Sidekick Social

CREATIVE TEAM

GRAPHIC DESIGN, Bradley Knox

WEB DEVELOPER, Christopher Palma

CONTENT CREATOR, Jase Orion

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 shipping, 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 Crematory - Columbarium

Brentwood Chapel - University Chapel

Join Us for Financial Literacy Month at the Library

Independent

® SELECTED FUNERAL HOMES

Licensed Funeral Directors of Distinction

FUNERAL HOMES Independent

® SELECTED

® SELECTED FUNERAL HOMES Independent

April is Financial Literacy Month, and Springfield-Greene County Library and ProsperU are offering a no-cost workshop series to help community members elevate their financial literacy and take control of their financial future. Rebecca Greene, director of ProsperU, explains, “ProsperU with Central Bank of the Ozarks is dedicated to helping you manage a healthy financial life. We provide free financial education and counseling to the greater Springfield community.”

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

Nicole E. Bauer • Angie Howell Larsen

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

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

In light of Springfield-Greene County Library’s shared goal of connecting community members with resources that can help improve their lives, each Monday beginning April 8, the Schweitzer Brentwood Library will host Rebecca Greene to offer information and resources on how to repair credit, save for retirement, budget, and pay off debt.

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

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

Participants can attend “Building and Repairing Your Credit” on April 8 at 8 a.m. The session focuses on understanding the pivotal role credit plays in financial success and provides valuable tools for building and repairing credit.

April 15 at noon, individuals are invited to the event “Lunch & Learn: Why One Should Contribute to Their Retirement Plan.” This session explores retirement accounts, including 401Ks, 403Bs, Roth, and Traditional IRAs. Attendees can enjoy a complimentary lunch while discovering optimal strategies for retirement savings.

On April 22 at 10 a.m., the program “Budgeting on a Fixed Income” offers guidance on navigating budget intricacies, particularly with a fixed income. Rebecca Greene will lead participants through common budgeting methods, assisting them in selecting the most suitable strategy. On April 29 at 10 a.m., individuals can address financial challenges in the session “Tackling Your Debt.” Gain essential tools to manage credit card debt effectively before it becomes unmanageable.

“I have a true passion for helping people in our community,” said Greene. Money can sometimes be intimidating, and everyone should know how to handle financial challenges no matter where they are in their financial journey—with no judgment. I believe that financial freedom is more than how much money you have; it starts with your mindset around money.” Registration opens two weeks in advance of each event. Visit thelibrary.org/ programs or call 417-883-1974 to register.

For more information on these and other great programs, visit thelibrary. org. Katy Pattison is the Schweitzer Brentwood Branch manager for Springfield-Greene County Library District. She can be reached at katyp@thelibrary.org.

WWI Black inductees outside Springfield’s Federal Building - Courtesy of Missouri State University Libraries

Duan Gavel and Johnny McNeil selected as Springfield Business Journal’s 2024 Men of the Year

By Charlotte Hardin UniteNews Contributing Writer

The Springfield Business Journal recently announced the 2024 Class of Men of the Year honorees. This award recognizes the personal, professional, philanthropic, civic, and cultural contributions and achievements of 20 businessmen throughout the Springfield area.

Congratulations to Mr. Duan Gavel, employed by City Utilities of Springfield and creator of All Things Diverse SGF/LLC, as well as Mr. Johnny McNeil, employed by Community Partnership of the Ozarks, Inc for being selected for inclusion in the 2024 Class. Both Gavel and McNeil are graduates of Missouri State University, leaders in their professional arenas, and contribute positivity to the

Springfield community in numerous ways.

An awards banquet honoring the 2024 Men of the Year has been scheduled for Thursday, April 18, 2024 at the White River Conference Center, located at 600 W. Sunshine. The event is set to begin at 5:30 pm and will provide an excellent opportunity for those interested in celebrating Gavel and McNeil, along with the other awardees. Individual tickets are $70 each and a reserved table seating 10 is available for $675. If anyone has questions or needs additional information regarding this event, please contact Amy Egger via email (aegger@sbj.net) or by calling (417-831-3238). Additionally, more information about the event can be found at SBJ.net/ MOTY.

Photos by Springfield Business Journal

Duan Gavel Photo by SBJ

Johnny McNeil

Photo by SBJ

Utilizing local resources to grow businesses

By Nicki Donnelson UniteNews Contributing Writer

When efactory opened 10 years ago, it started as an incubator space and a place for small businesses to grow. At that point, we never envisioned how much growth we could have in the next decade.

By physically expanding into additional locations and adding new services and missions, we now serve small, growing and large businesses in a multitude of ways.

Business owners can speak to our business consultants to develop financial projections, business strategy, marketing plans and more. Through our mentorship network, you can gain specific advice into legal matters, human resources, insurance issues as well as other areas concerning your business.

Meet our resource partners

The business consultants and mentors also act as a referral hub for other resources, many which also occupy space at efactory, like:

• APEX Accelerators

• Missouri Enterprise

• Missouri Department of Economic Development

• Multicultural Business Association

• Springfield Tech Council

• GOCAPS

•SCORE

• UniteNews Online

These resources provide guidance on processes that are often stumbling blocks, assist business owners on a variety of topics and serve as a connection to additional networking opportunities.

Take Angela Stephens, for example. She’s the founder and CEO of RE-FOCUS THE CREATIVE OFFICE, and she wanted to launch her products on a large scale. She connected with efactory and APEX Accelerators about government contracting and gaining certification as a Women Owned Small Business, giving her entry into new markets and greater exposure.

“It’s tough sometimes, to know what you need to know. But it’s my job as a CEO to find out the resources that we have,” Stephens said. “I’m so blown away by efactory and wish I’d known about it 30 years ago when I started my first business.”

Building business

Another recent client, Melissa DuVall, is a mother who saw an opportunity to invent a new weara-

ble blanket called Ponchairo. Her son Jace, a Missouri State graduate, introduced her to efactory’s Missouri SBDC at MSU. He learned of the center in his business coursework, and they met with a business consultant on a variety of topics as Ponchairo became a reality.

DuVall’s consultant helped identify manufacturers, put her in touch with resources and introduced her to a marketing professor at Missouri State University who assigned students a course project to develop possible advertising campaigns for her product. She continues to rely on her consultants’ advice on expansion questions, like whether to pursue sales on Amazon or other big online retailers.

“Lance (Coffman) is going to be a resource for me in that re-

gard, too, because the process for a product that is trademarked is a little more rigorous than maybe for other things,” DuVall said. “To have him as a resource and an advocate, and to know that I could use efactory facilities for meetings and such, it’s great to know I have those options.”

These two stories have much in common. However, their entry points into efactory and what they ultimately needed from us was unique.

Both women are building businesses that are ready to take off. “I really want to put Springfield, Missouri, on the map and the state of Missouri as a place where innovation is developed from the start,” Stephens said. “We may not be a Bass Pro today but hope one day they will be.”

ART EXHIBITS

EDUCATION

WORKSHOPS

CLASSES FOR KIDS & ADULTS

GUEST ARTISTS

SIGNATURE EVENTS

MUSEUM TOURS

free admission

June 14 -16

Scan The QR Code to see the official 2024 SGF Website

hours of operation:

Mon-Tues: Closed

Wed-Fri: 12pm - 8pm

Saturday: 10am – 6pm

Sunday: 1pm - 5pm

Top SPS seniors from each high school were honored for their exceptional GPA at

ROSE Banquet

Springfield, MO—Springfield Public Schools honored fifty-seven members of the Class of 2024 at the 39th Annual ROSE Banquet. The banquet was held at MSU Plaster Student Union Ballroom on March 21, 2024. ROSE stands for Recognition of Scholastic Excellence. UniteNews Publication recognizes and congratulates four African American student standouts who were named among these top scholars.

Zorian Josiah Black

Zorian is the son of Kenyae Black and Shannon Black. Zorian plans to attend Johnson & Wales University to seek a degree in food and beverage industry management to pursue a career as a restaurant owner operator. Zorian’s high school activities include National Honor Society, Student African American Brotherhood, football, basketball, Student body president, A+ Tutoring, band, DECA, DECA Internationals, and Principal Advisory Board.

Isaiah Matthew Giles

Isaiah is the son of Matthew Giles and Heidi Giles.

Isaiah plans to attend Drury University to seek a degree in business and pursue a career in finance.

Isaiah’s high school activities include cabinet, Student African American Brotherhood, National Honor Society, A+ Tutoring, DECA yearbook, Principal’s Advisory, and Commerce Mentorship Program.

Tomas Jeffery Hill

Tomas is the son of Jeff Hill and Jenny Hill. Tomas plans to attend Maryville University to seek a degree in sports business management. Tomas’ high school activities include Student African American Brotherhood -president, student cabinet - vice president, DECA, District Representative on Missouri State High School Activities Association Student Advisory Committee, National Honor Society, Community Foundation of the Ozarks Youth Empowerment Project, and Parkview Leadership Program.

*Closed on city & national holidays

Jamile Devin Johnson

Jamile is the son of Milton Johnson and Jody Johnson. Jamile plans to seek a degree in sports managemeant and pursue a career as a facility manager and athletic director. Jamile’s high school activities include Student African American Brotherhood, A+ Tutoring, yearbook - co-chief, National Honor Society, DECA, cabinet, basketball and football.

Supporting Your Child with Reading Difficulties

By Gwen Marshall, UniteNews Contributing Writer

As part of my job in Springfield Public Schools, I facilitate empowerment groups for young ladies. As I spend time with the various students, I have noticed that there are many young people that are struggling with reading. If your child is having difficulty learning to read, you are not alone. The National Assessment of Educational Progress’s latest report card found that as many as 33% of fourth graders’ reading abilities are below where they should be.

engaging and exciting, or at least non-negotiable, to read at home. As an educator I am very concerned about our young people who are reading below grade level or are graduating without the ability to read and pursue careers that will support the American dream. Unfortunately, there’s no quick fix or easy cure for struggling with reading. Getting a kid up to speed with reading takes careful instruction at school, close monitoring at home and good communication between both.

als with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) – that ensures that children diagnosed with a learning disability will receive special school services (for free).

Ask the school to evaluate your child: Send the school principal a written evaluation request. Write a short letter to your child’s principal to request that the school’s specialists review your child’s progress. This request should go to a “screening committee” at the school. If it is determined that your child needs extra help, the school may be able to provide this either in the child’s regular classroom or with a specialist.

effective things you can do to help him or her overcome or cope with reading difficulties, for example helping with phonemic awareness, decoding, and reading comprehension, just to name a few areas.

Are you one of those parents who is wondering what you should do to help your child who is struggling in this area? Don’t just give up or believe that your child will grow out of it. The fact is, whenever a child has difficulty with reading or school, it can be an overwhelming and emotional time for both the child and the parents.

The best thing parents can do is to play an active role in their children’s literary development. This means reading to your students, pointing out things in their environment to talk about, using interesting vocabulary, and make reading a happy, positive experience. And be proactive about it, Joanne Meier, research director of Reading Rockets says, “Kids having trouble aren’t dying to sit down to read.” You must make it

Reading Rockets a national public media literacy initiative supported by the National Education Association which offers information and resources on how young kids learn to read, why so many struggle, and how caring adults can help. They share the following important tips for parents:

• Find out if your child needs extra help: Ask questions to your child’s teachers such as – Do you think my child is having trouble with reading? What specific trouble is my child having? What can I do to help my child at home?

• Consult with the school and other parents: The best thing that can happen is for parents, teachers, and other professionals to begin talking together to plan ways to help a child overcome or cope with his or her reading difficulties.

• Inform yourself of your options: There is a law – the Individu-

•Consider hiring a tutor: Inquire at your school about the availability of tutoring. There are also many other tutoring options including private tutors, tutoring centers, educational therapists, and formalized programs.

• Support your child at home: Provide academic support. Learning is hard work, especially when a child struggles with reading. Although you don’t want to put extra academic pressure on your child, there are some

• Provide emotional support: Probably the most important thing you can do as a parent is to let your child know how much you value him or her as a unique and special person! Self-esteem often takes a hit when children struggle with reading or school. Let the know that learning is a process and to be patient with themselves as you are patient with them.

One thing you must remember as a parent or gradian of a child that is having difficulties with reading is to never give up. You are your child’s best advocate, so keep asking, learning, and acting to ensure that he or she has the best opportunity to succeed at reading, at school, and therefore at life.

Up Coming Events:

April 26,2024 April Break (Students Out of school)

Gwen Marshall

By Melesha Bailey, UniteNews Contributing Writer

In recent years, there has been a growing trend toward adopting plantbased diets, with more people exploring a lifestyle centered around fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes. A plant-based diet has many benefits. It is essential to weigh both the advantages and potential downsides. Let’s explore the pros and cons of adopting a plant-based eating approach.

Pros of Adopting Plant-based Eating

Heart

Health and Disease

Prevention:

According to the weight loss forum’s best method of weight loss, one of the best advantages of plantbased eating is its positive impact on heart health. Plant-based diets are rich in delicious fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. They are known to decrease cholesterol and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. With this diet, you get plenty of fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients in plant-based foods that can contribute to cardiovascular well-being.

Weight Management:

Plant-based diets aid in weight

Your Health & Wellness News

Navigating the Plant-Based Diet

management and weight loss. Many fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are nutrient-dense and lower in calories than animal-based products. The fiber content in plant-based foods can promote a feeling of fullness, helping to control calorie intake and maintain a healthy weight.

Environmental Sustainability:

Choosing a plantbased diet is better for the environment. Plant-based eating typically requires fewer natural resources such as soil, water, and gas. It produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions and contributes to lower levels of deforestation than animal agriculture. Adopting a plant-based lifestyle is seen by many as a sustainable and eco-friendly choice.

in essential nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are not as readily available in plant-based diets. Following a plant-based diet should ensure that one receives these essential nutrients from alternative sources like fortified foods or supplements.

Protein Intake and Muscle Health:

Adequate protein intake is crucial for muscle health, and it can be challenging to meet protein needs solely from plant-based sources. While beans, lentils, and tofu are excellent protein sources, plantbased individuals must intentionally balance amino acids to ensure they get complete proteins. Athletes and those with higher protein requirements may face additional challenges in meeting their nutritional needs.

Social and Practical Challenges:

Cons of Plant-Based Eating

Nutritional Challenges:

A primary concern associated with a plant-based diet is the possibility of developing nutritional deficiencies. Most animal products are rich

Embracing a plant-based lifestyle can raise social and practical challenges. Dining out or attending social events may become more complicated as plant-based options may be limited. The decision to transition

to eating a plant-based diet can be daunting for some, requiring careful planning, education, and adaptation to new cooking styles and recipes.

A plant-based diet provides many health benefits, including heart health, weight management, and environmental sustainability. Considering this dietary approach, you should be aware of potential nutritional challenges, especially certain essential nutrients. Balancing protein intake and overcoming social and practical hurdles also require careful consideration. As with any significant lifestyle change, consulting Love 4 Life Wellness, healthcare professionals, or dietitians provide personalized guidance for a smooth transition to a plant-based way of eating. Going plantbased should align with health goals, values, and a commitment to overall well-being.

Ready to explore the world of plant-based living, discover delicious recipes, and unlock the secrets to a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle? Start your plant-based adventure today for a vibrant, compassionate, and nutritious tomorrow!

Contact Melesha@love4lifewellness.com or check out our website. www.love4lifewellness.com

National Minority Health Month: A Message from Director of OMH

By Felicia Collins, M.D., M.P.H. UniteNews Guest Writer

April 1 marked the start of National Minority Health Month. This year’s theme is Better Health Through Better Understanding, which focuses on improving health outcomes by providing racial and ethnic minority and American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities with culturally and linguistically competent healthcare services, information, and resources.

During this observance, the HHS Office of Minority Health (OMH) will promote events and multilingual resources to help empower patients to ask for what they need and educate providers and community health workers on ways to be more aware of patients’ varying health literacy levels.

You can play an important role in improving health literacy—how individuals find, understand, and use health information to inform their

care. This April and beyond, I invite everyone—individuals, community-based organizations, federal, state, and local governments as well as other public and private entities— to learn how health literacy and language access can create healthier outcomes and communities.

I encourage you to visit the OMH National Minority Health Month website (available in English and Spanish) to:

Find and share information and re-

sources related to this year’s theme.

Download shareable graphics and sample messages to use across all social media platforms.

Create your own graphics, backgrounds, and presentations using OMH’s templates.

Participate in critical conversations about health literacy on social media by tagging @MinorityHealth on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram and using the hashtags, #MinorityHealth.

Melesha Bailey

Black History

Summer Academy

Springfield NAACP Releases Score Card for 2024 School Board Candidates

Springfeild, MO—The Springfield NAACP has recently released a Score Card, shedding light on the stances of seven school board candidates ahead of the April 2nd election. In an effort to gauge alignment with NAACP principles, each candidate was questioned about their positions on critical issues affecting the educational landscape.

The NAACP posed five questions to the slate of candidates, covering crucial areas such as Achievement Gaps, Improvement Plan, Banned Books, Safety, and Diversity Equity and Inclusion. Two candidates Danielle Kincaid and Kyler Sherman-Wilkins met all NAACP five expectations and demonstrated a commitment to the NAACP’s core principles, as evidenced by their responses to the questions posed.

By Jase Orion UniteNews Contributing Writer

Ride E-Way in style this summer!

Springfield’s premier micro mobility providers have expanded their fleet, and have made great strides in their service’s convenience since arriving on the scene in 2021.

On June 13, 2022, Springfield City Council approved new rules for electric scooter rentals. Implementing micro-mobility device rules that create an outline to prevent electric scooters from being “a nuisance or poses a threat to public safety or security,” Ride E-way Scooters has been working closely with city officials. Springfield has been receptive to their proposals, gaining the local upstart additional parking spots, and preparing for some very exciting summer events!

The bright yellow speed machines can be found at Booneville and Olive, next to Vision Clinic downtown. They can also be found on South and Walnut, near Great Southern Bank, and on the square downtown. There are over 30 scooters publicly available, and E-way plans to expand the fleet up to 80, by July 2024.

“The new model of scooter is lightweight, more nimble, and has an improved braking system,” says Marquez Williams, who owns and operates the company with Trayvon Northern.

Ride E-way is also introducing an improved app experience. At only $1 to unlock, and $0.39 per minute, the local start up beats Bird Scooters at the price point. The app can also scan up to 4

EVS at once, so your friends don’t have to struggle through a sign up process on a night out. Don’t want to use another app? E-way’s

website (ewayscooters.com) offers reservation services for the user to peruse and decide on which model of scooter will best fit their party’s needs.

The owners are both from the Quad City area, a region of cities in Iowa and Illinois. They moved to Springfield in 2014. Williams said he first experienced the electric scooter in Tulsa, and has been hard at work researching what it would take to bring that type of experience to the Ozarks.

On Thursday evenings, starting in April, E-way plans to organize meet-and-greet-and-ride events! “Tentatively, the plan is for every Thursday, at 6:30pm, there will be discounted rates for

customers to take advantage of,” says Williams. “We can all meet up at Boonville and Olive, or maybe behind the Efactory (Where the company office is located) and ride together.”

Get to know the local entrepreneurs and check out their services at one of these special events soon! As Bird Scooters faces financial difficulty, our local E-way is making big moves to become Springfield’s favorite way to explore the Queen City. Look for the black scooters with the yellow lettering!

Co-Owner, Marquez Williams

Ride E-Way Electric Scooters are the black scooter with the yellow lettering

Unlock Your Potential: Apply for the 2024 NAACP Youth Scholarship

Springfield, MO—Are you a graduating minority high school student with big dreams and a passion for change? The NAACP is excited to announce the 2024 NAACP Youth Scholarship, an incredible opportunity designed to empower the next generation of leaders through education. In addition, we are proud to introduce the Jacquelin Waugh Foster 2024 Scholarship, in honor of an esteemed advocate for equality and justice.

Eligibility Requirements:

To be considered for these prestigious scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Graduating Minority High School Student: You must belong to a minority group and be in your final year of high school.

Pursuing Further Education:

Whether you’re heading off to college, university, vocational school, or pursuing specialized training/ certification, as long as you’re committed to advancing your education, you’re eligible to apply. The NAACP recognizes the value of diverse educational paths and encourages all ambitious individuals to apply.

Application Details:

Ready to take the first step toward securing your future? Here’s how to apply:

Application Deadline: Mark your calendars for April 12th, 2024. All in-person applications must be received by the NAACP by this date. If you’re mailing your application, ensure it’s postmarked no later than April 12, 2024, to be considered.

Required Materials: Along with your completed application form, make sure to include the following: An official transcript: Your academic achievements provide insight into your dedication and potential.

A brief statement (<500 words): This is your chance to shine. Tell us about your advocacy and activism work to date. We want to hear about the causes you’re passionate about, the actions you’ve taken, and the lessons you’ve learned along the way.

Your educational plan: Share your vision for the future. What are your academic and career goals? How do you plan to make a difference in your community and beyond?

Two letters of recommendation: Choose individuals who can attest to your character, achievements, and potential. This could be a teacher, school administrator, or community leader who knows you well.

Please note that incomplete applications will not be processed, so be sure to double-check that you’ve included all required materials before submitting.

Why Apply?

Beyond the financial support these scholarships provide, they offer much more than monetary value. By becoming a recipient, you join a network of passionate individuals dedicated to driving positive change in their communities. You’ll have access to mentorship opportunities, networking events, and resources to support your academic and professional journey.

Invest in Your Future: Don’t let financial barriers hold you back from achieving your dreams. The 2024 NAACP Youth Scholarship and the Jacquelin Waugh Foster 2024 Scholarship are here to help you unlock your potential and make a lasting impact.

Apply today and take the first step toward a brighter tomorrow. Your journey starts here.

For more information, call Tara Lacio 417-986-1446

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

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 417-986-1446

Quantum Computing Displacing AI as Technical Focus

By Heather Noggle, UniteNews Staff Writer

AI’s been in ads and the news the last few years. ChatGPT’s wide release in late 2022 meant we could play with AI in human, conversational ways.  The big buzz in the tech scene is now about quantum computing, which will enable machines to undertake considerably faster and more powerful problem solving.

Quantum computing’s got a dark side, too, though. With all that power, it’ll be easy to break current forms of encryption – today’s coding and practices that keep private data private.

A California company named D-Wave Quantum even has a stock ticker, QBTS, which is a clever no-vowel form of qubits, the units of representation for quantum computing.  https://www.dwavequantum. com.

Bits in classical computing are always 0 or 1.  Or, we can think of

them as off or on. Qubits (quantum bits), in contrast, have multidimensional capabilities. Qubits store quantum “states” – not just a simple 0 or 1. Only when a qubit is being actively measured is it 0 or 1 (on or off, true or false). Clear?  (Not completely, right?) A simpler explanation is that the possibility exists for a qubit to be both 0 and 1 at the same time…until you measure it. It’s like being popcorn and corn syrup simultaneously.

Many major companies are

working on quantum computing, and experts offer varying predictions on when it’ll be widely available and frequently used. IBM, Google, Microsoft, Amazon (AWS), Honeywell, Intel, and others are on that list of companies researching and working to own the space. A late December 2023 article in Forbes by Craig S. Smith provides more detail and a list of possible quantum use cases. https://www.forbes.com/sites/technology/article/top-quantum-computing-companies/

For now, the two things that stand out are both possibility based.  The possibly of faster and more efficient computing and the near certainty that the technology  will also bring cryptographic challenges, as mentioned earlier. The article in the last paragraph called quantum “the end of cryptography.”

What’s next?  Well, quantum cryptography, of course. The buzz surrounds quantum-safe and quantum-resistant algorithms.  In 2022,

Building a Solid Financial House

NIST, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, offered 4 such algorithms. One is for general encryption, and the other 3 are to be used with digital signatures.

“To prepare, users can inventory their systems for applications that use public-key cryptography, which will need to be replaced before cryptographically relevant quantum computers appear. They can also alert their IT departments and vendors about the upcoming change.”

One last article: https://aws. amazon.com/what-is/quantum-computing

Technology’s always changing. It’s good to know how and why, and quantum computing will be a thing full of complex math that makes it all happen. In the quantum world, cats will be dogs (and cats) simultaneously, I guess. Decoherent, for sure (see the AWS article).

For more information contact Heather Noggle at hnoggle@codistac.com

By Mahalia Boyd, UniteNews Staff Writer

Building a strong financial house involves understanding your financial status, creating an emergency fund, reducing debt, investing wisely, regular review and adjustments, legal considerations, retirement planning, and estate planning, which is a crucial and timely topic in today’s economic landscape.

We’ll explore strategies and considerations for any generation to bolster their financial standing and achieve a comfortable retirement.

Building a solid financial future is a multifaceted endeavor that requires careful planning, disciplined

saving, and prudent decision-making. It involves responsibly managing your finances, safeguarding against unforeseen events, and preparing for future milestones. Here are a few key components of building a solid financial foundation.

Firstly, the most pressing task is the foundation, or creating a will to designate beneficiaries for your assets, appoint guardians for small children, and provide instructions to settle your estate. Regularly examining and modifying your will is vital, especially following life events like marriage, divorce, or childbirth.

Boyd

Secondly, the ground floor or having the proper type of life insurance or income protection is important. Of course, that is subject to much debate. At Primerica Financial Services, we recommend “term” with the cost difference of other products (whole or universal life), saved through investment products. Insurance acts as a safety net, providing financial and income replacement protection against an assortment of risks. Income replacement is one of the most significant needs after the loss of a breadwinner. Other essential insurance needs include health

and homeowner’s insurance and auto insurance to mitigate healthcare expenses, vehicle and property damage risks.

Thirdly, the third floor or having an emergency fund offers a financial buffer to handle unforeseen expenses or income disruptions without jeopardizing your long-term financial goals. Aim to save three to six months’ worth of living costs in a convenient account, such as a highyield savings account or a money market fund. This fund might assist you in weather emergencies such as medical bills, car repairs, or job losses without resorting to high-interest debt or depleting your retirement

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Mahalia

Financial House

continued from page 14

savings.

Fourth, saving for your children’s college education is an important part of securing their future and easing their financial burden. We suggest saving for college early by contributing to tax-advantaged accounts, i.e., 529 plans or Coverdell Education Savings Accounts (ESAs). They offer potential tax benefits and can be used to pay for qualified education expenses like tuition, fees, books, room, and board. By regularly contributing to college savings accounts, you can help alleviate the burden of student loan debt and provide your children with greater opportunities for academic and career success.

To summarize, building a sol-

id financial house for your family entails estate planning through a will, risk management through term life insurance, establishing an emergency fund with 3 to 6 months set aside, and investing for higher education expenses. Taking these early steps will address important needs in protecting your loved ones from the devastation of the loss of a family member and assist you in carrying out your wishes to reach your longterm goals.

It may seem daunting, but with patience and discipline, you can achieve financial stability and peace of mind. We help families save for emergencies, retirement, education, and other important goals through straightforward financial products from industry-leading companies. We are a distributor of products and services for your needs and goals to

help make seemingly daunting tasks easier. Call today!

Mahalia Boyd

Primerica Representative

Cell:  417.459.1453

Email: mahalia.boyd@primerica.com

1. Go to google.com

2. Type in “Nasdaq Glossary.”

3. Press the first link that shows up

4. Start with letter A and slowly work your way to letter Z.

BRANFORD MARSALIS MOJO PERFORMING WITH MISSOURI JAZZ ORCHESTRA

New Orleans-born Branford Marsalis is an award-winning saxophonist, band leader, featured classical soloist, and a film and Broadway composer.

MONTH OF THE YEAR

In the process, he has become a multi award-winning artist with three Grammys, a citation by the National Endowment for the Arts as a Jazz Master and an avatar of contemporary artistic excellence.

The Branford Marsalis Quartet,

formed in 1986, remains his primary means of expression. In its virtually uninterrupted three-plus decades of existence, the Quartet has established a rare breadth of stylistic range as demonstrated on the band’s latest release: The Secret Between the Shadow and the Soul. But Branford has not confined his music to the jazz quartet context. A frequent soloist with classical ensembles, Branford has

Gillioz Jazz Festival Day 1

Friday, April 05

Doors: 6pm // Show: 6pm

This is a FREE event! No ticket required

The historic Gillioz lobby becomes the Jazz Cafe’ featuring art on display featuring jazz legends. A premium bar and food truck offerings from Don Tono Mexican Food and Smoreish Killer Desserts will be available for purchase. In addition, TheTHIRDFloor will be open to tour the various Resident Companies, take in more art, view screenings of SATO48 shorts and more!

The Jazz Cafe’, Gallery & TheTHIRD Floor open house will be open 6-9pm

Theatre tours at 6pm & 7:30pm

Gillioz Jazz Festival Day 2

Saturday, April 06

Doors: 11am // Show: 11am

This is a FREE event! No ticket required

The Jazz Cafe’ is back with the opportunity to experience LIVE music from jazz bands, Smithsonian art on display featuring jazz legends, a premium bar and food truck offerings from Don Tono Mexican Food and Smore-ish Killer Desserts!

Show schedule:

11:00am: Hamm/Aho/Bohrisch Trio

12:00pm: Matt Harp Trio

1:00pm: John Strickler Trio

2:00pm: Brant Jester Trio

3:00pm: Arthur Duncan Trio

The Jazz Cafe’ will be open 11am-4pm

Branford Marsalis & MOJO

Saturday, April 06

Doors: 7pm // Show: 8pm $49

For tickets go to: Gillioz.org or Call: (417)863-9491

become increasingly sought after as a featured soloist with acclaimed orchestras around the world, performing works by composers such as Copeland, Debussy, Glazunov, Ibert, Mahler, Milhaud, Rorem, Vaughan Williams and Villa-Lobos. His legendary guest performances with the Grateful Dead and collaborations with Sting have made him a fan favorite in the pop arena.