2024 March Unite

Dr. Christa Jackson publishes Math Books highlighting culturally diverse mathematicians Page 6

Dr. Kyler Sherman-Wilkins is one of seven School Board candidates Page 13

Springfield Police Dept Launches Community Lights On Project Page 9

Spring Board Meeting of the MBSC

Washington Avenue Baptist Church Page 9

From the Editor

March is Women’s History Month and we are highlighting one of our local educators who has gone on to work as a Math professor at Saint Louis University. Read about her inovative book series highlighting culturally diverse mathematicians.

The Missouri Sports Hall of Fame welcomed a new member into its prestigious ranks as Anthony Tolliver, a local sports icon, was inducted. Tolliver’s outstanding contributions to the sports community and his lasting impact were celebrated by fans and fellow athletes.

In a groundbreaking partnership between the Springfield Police Department and Lights On!, an innovative program called the Community Lights On Project has been launched. This program offers no-cost repair vouchers to individuals in the community instead of issuing tickets, fostering positive relationships and proactive solutions. See the Best New Business awardees honored at the Multicultural Business Association annual Heritage Awards Banquet.

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 March 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 Vorel

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

SELECTED FUNERAL HOMES Independent

Licensed Funeral Directors of Distinction

The Library Announces Annual One Read Book and Activities

SELECTED FUNERAL HOMES Independent

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

The Springfield-Greene County Library annually selects a special book for the community to enjoy together. This year’s selection is “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt. Charming, witty and deceptively sensitive, Shelby Van Pelt’s “Remarkably Bright Creatures” follows an unlikely connection between a widow and a Giant Pacific Octopus residing at the local aquarium. Written through the lives of this unexpected pair, this book offers a gentle reminder that sometimes, taking a hard look at the past can help uncover a future that once felt impossible.

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

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

Nicole E. Bauer • Angie Howell Larsen

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

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

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

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

We will welcome author Shelby Van Pelt to the Library Center to discuss her book on Thursday, March 28, at 7 p.m. Books will be available for purchase and signing. In addition, explore some programs inspired by the book. For a more complete list, visit thelibrary.org/oneread.

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

First Friday Art Walk is on Friday, March 1, from 6:30-9 p.m., at the Park Central Branch Library. We will feature works of art by Springfield Regional Arts Council members and submissions from the public. Artist reception and award ceremony at 7:30 p.m.

Escape Room: Aquarium Exhibit on Saturday, March 2, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday, March 3, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., in the Library Station Frisco Room. You’ve broken into the aquarium with one task in mind – rescue the octopus and release them into the ocean. Call to register a group of 6 or less for a time slot. Registration starts February 17; call 417-616-0683.

The Giant Pacific Octopus on Thursday, March 21, at 7 p.m. in the Library Center auditorium. Dive into the unique adaptations of the Giant Pacific Octopus and gain insight into the natural lives of creatures like Marcellus in this INKredible program. Through artifacts, video footage and demonstrations, you’ll see how essential, beautiful and remarkable these creatures are. Presented in partnership with Wonders of Wildlife.

“The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou” at the Moxie on Sunday, March 24, 7-9 p.m. at the Moxie Cinema. A group of explorers embark on a journey to hunt down the “jaguar shark” that ate one of their crew. Rated R and admission is free.

Programming is generously funded by the 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.

Black Theaters and Theater Going

Written by: Joan Hampton-Porter Curator, History Museum on the Square

Springfield Contemporary Theater will perform Fences, March 15-31 in the Historic Fox Theatre.

Fences is the story of one Black family's internal and external struggles in 1950s Pittsburgh.

Looking north on Boonville Ave. The Ritz theater

Christa Jackson publishes books highlighting culturally diverse mathematicians

It’s important to create a sense of belonging so that young scholars can see themselves and others in the STEM fields.”

Christa Jackson,Ph.D.

dis(abilities), students in poverty, and girls) from participating in, having agency with, and developing positive, productive identities in mathematics, science, and STEM through seeking external funding and ensuring her research is an integral component in the courses she teaches and in her service and outreach opportunities.”

“Empowering students to be learners and doers of mathematics and giving them the agency to do so”

Christa Jackson, Ph.D., is currently a professor of educational studies at St Louis University. Prior to that appointment, Jackson worked as an assistant professor in the Department of STEM Education in the University of Kentucky from 2010 through 2014 and then an associate professor of mathematics education in the School of Education at Iowa State University 2014 -2021.

Jackson earned her Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction with an emphasis in mathematics education from the University of Missouri-Columbia. Before entering higher education, Jackson taught for a decade in the public school system in Spring-

field, Missouri.

The Math Book Series

Dazzling Us with Data is part of the Powerful Mathematicians who Changed the World book series. Edited by Christa Jackson and illustrated by Estrella Bascuñan, the Powerful Mathematicians Who Changed the World book series centers on underrepresented mathematicians we do not typically hear or learn about in school. By reading the stories, you and your child will gain insight into the remarkable work of these mathematicians, learn about their mathematical contributions, and become more intrigued and see yourself more as learners and doers of mathematics.

“My research focuses primarily on teachers’ knowledge of equity, particularly as they’re teaching primarily black students, so that they are really meeting the students’ needs, and then also making sure that they are building off a student’s agency, as well as identity, to engage them in the mathematics,” Jackson said. This series features book for elementary, middle, and high school audiences.

Dr. Jackson said she is “excited to build upon her research on disrupting oppressive systems that hinder students, particularly minority students (i.e., Blacks, Latinx, Native Americans, students with

Dr. Jackson, is also the Founder and Director of the Institute for STEM Collaboration, Outreach, Research, and Education (iSCORE) where she focuses on transforming the STEM community one mind at a time through fostering scholars’ STEM literacy development, STEM identities, and STEM sense of belonging. Dr. Jackson researches the development, use, and implementation of integrated STEM curriculum as well as understand the influence curricular materials and the related standards have on teachers’ practices and the opportunities the curricular materials afford scholars to engage in STEM.

By Samuel Knox UniteNews Staff Writer

By Nicki Donnelson UniteNews Contributing Writer

Designing the road map for your business

direction you plan to take your business and how you intend to foster that business success.

Most of us wouldn’t begin a road trip without a plan, even if it’s flexible. We’d think about where we would like to visit, directions to get there, how much money we must spend and how long we can reasonably be gone.

The most spontaneous individual might just go where the wind blows, but that’s not how you should operate a business.

In business, a roadmap is essential, said Amy Jackson, regional business consultant for the Missouri SBDC at MSU (part of efactory). She works with business owners daily to build the foundation, traverse the stumbling blocks, and identify new pathways for new and established businesses to succeed.

Jackson is a consultant working with the current cohort of the Early-Stage Business Boot Camp in Taney County. From her experience as an entrepreneur and working alongside them, she offers sound advice to those she consults with as well as those she teaches in the class.

Identifying risks

For any business, Jackson stresses the importance of proper planning. Beyond big dreams, proper planning includes a strong strategy with research and analysis to understand the market and customer base.

“The more you research, the more you understand your risks,” she said.

Planning helps to mitigate risks, she said. When you build a business plan, you outline the

Even the best planning will leave some things left uncovered. Knowing how to pivot, as we became all too aware of during the COVID-19 pandemic, is also part of planning. Having a contingency plan that you can activate quickly can make a huge difference in your businesses bottom line.

“Your business plan should give your business direction and financial projections over the next three years.”

Business budgeting

Just like on a road trip, you need to have a plan for a budget. A solid plan for expenses and sales projections, Jackson said, can improve your experience when looking for financial support like commercial lending.

To put this into practice, you need to know the number of products or services you need sell monthly to cover expenses and how long it will take you to reach that volume of sales.

You will also need a clear understanding of any startup costs, she added. These are expenses you have prior to making your first sale. Startup costs and working capital will determine how much money you need to start your business.

“When you understand your expenses, you know the sales volume needed to support your business each month, those sales goals are set in your 3-year financial projections. They can also create some motivation. Let’s face it: No one wants to just cover

expenses,” she said. “You want to be able to pay yourself.”

In addition to covering necessary expenses, Jackson cautions business owners to focus their time where it can add the most value. She demonstrates this by using the example of doing your own accounting when it’s not in your wheelhouse. Evaluate how long it might take to complete necessary accounting work and be prepared to seek service providers to assist your business instead.

Finding resources

The good news? It’s twofold, according to Jackson.

1. A full business plan doesn’t

have to be overwhelming.

2. You don’t have to do it alone.

“You can literally start with something on a napkin,” Jackson said, “We can help you from there.”

Business consultants and mentors are available to meet with you – at no cost – through the efactory. They can steer you in the direction of tools, resources and training (like the Early-Stage Business Boot Camp) to help you build the road map.

Check out options at efactory. missouristate.edu/bootcamp.

Honoring and Celebrating Women’s History Month

by Gwen Marshall, UniteNews Contributing Writer

Every year, March is designated as Women’s History Month—a month dedicated to honoring women’s contributions in US history. Women’s History Month 2024 will take place from Friday, March 1 - Sunday, March 31, 2024. President Jimmy Carter issued the first Presidential Proclamation declaring the Week of March 8th 1980 as National Women’s History Week.

Congressional Resolution, known as Pub. L. 97-28. The resolution, stated:

In 1981, Senator Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) and Representative Barbara Mikulski (D-Maryland) co-sponsored the first Joint

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“Whereas American women of every race, class, and ethnic background helped found the Nation in countless recorded and unrecorded ways as servants, slaves, nurses, nuns, homemakers, industrial workers, teachers, reformers, soldiers, and pioneers; Whereas American women have played and continue to play a critical economic, cultural, and social role in every sphere of our Nation’s life by constituting a significant portion of the labor force working in and outside of the home; Whereas

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American women have played a unique role throughout our history by providing the majority of the Nation’s volunteer labor force and have been particularly important in the establishment of early charitable philanthropic and cultural institutions in the country; Whereas American women of every race, class, and ethnic background served as early leaders in the forefront of every major progressive social change movement, not only to secure their own right of suffrage and equal opportunity, but also in the abolitionist movement, the emancipation movement, the industrial labor union movement, and the modern civil rights movement; and Whereas despite these contributions, the role of American women in history has been consistently overlooked and undervalued in the body of American history: Now, therefore, be it Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United Women’s States of America in Congress assembled, That the week beginning History Week. March 7, 1982, is designated as ‘Women’s History Week.”

In 1987 Congress passed Public Law 100-9, designating March as “Women’s History Month since 1995, each president has issued an annual proclamation designating the month of March as “Women’s History Month.”

As we celebrate Women’s History Month let us not forget the contributions of great women like Abigail Adams, Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Sojourner Truth, Harriett Tubman, Mary Church Terrell, Eleanor Roo-

sevelt, Rosa Parks, Fannie Lou Hamer, Coretta Scott King, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and many others whose shoulders we stand on.

“Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion” is the theme for Women’s History Month 2024. Women such as Michelle Obama, Malala Yousafzai, Vice President Kamala Harris, Sonia Sotomayor, Amanda Gorman, and Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson who have continued to strive for equality.

Women who understand that, for a positive future, we need to eliminate bias and discrimination entirely from our lives and institutions. It takes a great deal of courage for women to advocate for practical goals like equity, diversity and inclusion both locally and nationally. It is important that throughout 2024, we honor local women from the past and present who have taken the lead to show the importance of change. We are proud to celebrate women who work for basic inclusion, equality and fairness.

Who are the women in your community that you will honor? Let them know how much you appreciate them for their courage and strength by reaffirm your commitment to advancing rights and opportunities for women and girls in the United States and around the world.

Up Coming Events:

March 8 — Professional Day (Students Out)

March 11-14 — Spring Break (Students Out)

March 15 — District Closed

Gwen Marshall

Join Us to Celebrate Life & Unity

Springfield, MO— “Celebrate Life & Unity in Our Community 2024” is coming up on Saturday, April 6, 2024 from 11:00 am until 3:00 pm.

This year we will again be at the Teamsters Local #245, 1850 E. Division Street. You DO NOT want to miss this very important and fun-filled day.

This year we will be honoring some Living Legends in our Community, who are more than “seasoned” at 90 years old or more! Come and reconnect with friends and family, as we also welcome new residents in the African American Community.

It will be a day of Honor, Faith,

Fellowship, Food, Music, and Fun! We will remember the past, celebrate the present, and plan for the future. Come on out and celebrate US!

1. If you are a Church or Civic group, Club or Organization, we welcome you to showcase your organization, past & present, by setting up a display table with memorabilia, information, and upcoming events.

2. If you are an Artist and would be interested in displaying some of your art, we welcome you. And did I mention it’s FREE?

For more information or to volunteer to help, please contact Patricia Burton at 417-894-2795.

Zorian Black earns trip to DECA Nationals

Springfield, MO— High school student Zorian Black has achieved the title of State Qualifier in the Food Marketing Series with DECA. Additionally, he secured a second award as a National Qualifier for his Viking Venue Marketing Campaign.

DECA, which stands for Distributive Education Clubs of America, is a program designed for high school and college students interested in business. The organization aims to equip emerging leaders and entrepreneurs with skills for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management.

“I received this award for placing first in the Food Marketing Individual series. I competed against peers from my district in a series of role plays. I also took a test and achieved the highest

overall score among them,” remarked Zorian. Zorian will travel to California in March to compete in the National DECA competition.

Zorian is a senior at Springfield Parkview High School, a SAAB (B2B) member and attends youth ministry at Deliverance Temple Ministries.

SGF NAACP/SPD supports Lights On

Springfield, MO – A partnership between the Springfield Police Department and Lights On! brings an innovative community-driven program to Springfield that replaces tickets with no-cost repair vouchers.

Through the program, when a Springfield police officer conducts a routine traffic stop involving a mechanical violation (e.g., burned out light bulb, broken turn signal), instead of issuing a ticket for the violation, the officer can provide a voucher for free repair at a participating local auto repair shop.

Bringing the program to Springfield was an idea first discussed with the Chief’s Citizen

Advisory Group, which unanimously agreed to support the initiative.

“We are proud to adopt this program,” Chief Paul Williams said. “A citation for these minor offenses can lead to further financial strain and will most likely lead to additional interactions with law enforcement, but we have a duty to ensure cars on the road are safe.”

The Lights On! initiative will launch in Springfield this spring. The program is supported by its parent organization, MicroGrants, and via community donations.

The Springfield NAACP kicked off local fundraising efforts with a $2,500 donation.

Spring Board Meeting of the MBSC at Washington Avenue Baptist Church

The Spring Board Meeting of the Missionary Baptist State Convention of Missouri will be hosted again by Washington Avenue Baptist Church, 1722 N National, March 11-13, 2024.

There will be a Musical Program on Monday, March 11 at 7

pm at Washington Ave Church.

The Education Scholarship

Luncheon is March 12, at 12 pm at Missouri State University. The Guest speaker will be SAAB CEO, Dr. Tyrone Bledsoe.

For more information, contact Tim Ferguson 417-234-1434.

Zorian Black

Your Health & Wellness News

Bridging the Gap: Addressing Black Maternal Health Disparities

by Melesha Bailey, UniteNews Contributing Writer

The happiness that comes with motherhood is immeasurable. However, the path to becoming a mother is different for everyone. The United States still faces significant issues when it comes to black maternal health disparities. This issue exposes differences in pregnancy outcomes among black women. The intersection of race and maternal health reveals a disturbing reality of facts.

Alarming Maternal Mortality Rates

Black maternal health disparities are a grave injustice. Black women are two to three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white women. These disparities persist across all socioeconomic levels, indicating a systemic problem. Immediate action and attention are needed to address this issue.

Access to Prenatal Care

According to the National Institute for Health, the lack of timely and quality prenatal care is a significant factor contributing to maternal health disparities among Black women. Many women do not have health

insurance or transportation and limited healthcare facilities, which results in delayed or insufficient prenatal care. These factors lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes.  Implicit Bias in Healthcare:

The existence of implicit bias within the healthcare system contributes to disparities in maternal health outcomes. Mary Ann Liebert highlighted a study that revealed Black women often face judgment, stereotypes, and inadequate communication from healthcare professionals, impacting the quality of care received. Addressing implicit bias through education and cultural competence training is crucial for ensuring equitable maternal healthcare.

Socioeconomic Factors:

face economic challenges, leading to higher stress and inadequate resources for proper nutrition and healthcare during pregnancy. Breaking the cycle of poverty is crucial to improving maternal health outcomes among black women.

Bailey

Postpartum Disparities: Maternal health disparities go beyond childbirth and affect postpartum care as well. Black women face an increased risk of postpartum complications and encounter difficulties in accessing adequate postpartum support. The Doula Foundation plays a crucial role in addressing these gaps in postpartum healthcare, which is essential for ensuring the well-being of both mothers and infants.

Advocacy and Policy Solutions:

According to a recent study by Cedar-Sinai, poverty and limited access to education and employment opportunities worsen the disparities in maternal health outcomes. These issues affect black women who

by Tracy Oeser, MSPsy, UniteNews Guest Writer

In 2021, the CDC reported 48,183 suicide deaths. Provisional data for 2022 indicates 49,449 people also died by suicide. With either year, we anticipate numbers could actually be higher because some suicide deaths have historically been misclassified as overdoses, homicides, and undetermined deaths. In the wake of these intentional deaths, the family, friends, and acquaintances are left to pick up the emotional pieces and

Addressing Black maternal health disparities requires a comprehensive approach. Black women need advocates who focus on implementing policies that promote equitable access to healthcare, eliminate systemic racism in medical settings,

Postvention – A Silent Epidemic

make sense of these losses. While the loss of life to suicide is staggering, the number of people left behind to grieve is distressing.

In 2019, Dr. Julie Cerel conducted research and reported an average of 135 people are exposed to one suicide death and, of those, more than 6 people experience a major life disruption due to that loss. Therefore, for the year 2021 alone, over 289,000 of the estimated 5.69 million people exposed to a suicide death are

trying to find their way through the disruption that suicide brings.

History of Postvention

Grief is part of life so, why should we care? A loss due to suicide impacts family relationships, the ability to sustain a job, and can lead to further suicides when those loss survivors do not receive immediate and adequate grief support. And this dilemma has been occurring for decades. The term “postvention”

and ensure culturally competent and respectful care.

Community Engagement and Support: Community engagement is vital in bridging the gap in maternal health disparities. More initiatives that provide education, support, and resources for Black mothers will contribute to better maternal health outcomes.

Fostering a sense of community that addresses the unique challenges Black women face during pregnancy creates a more supportive and empowering environment for babies, mothers, and their families.     It is our collective responsibility to urgently address the disparities in Black maternal health. It must involve healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities. To ensure a future where every woman, regardless of her racial background, can navigate the journey of pregnancy and childbirth with dignity, safety, and optimal health outcomes, we must dismantle systemic barriers, combat implicit bias, and implement policies that prioritize equitable maternal healthcare. We must acknowledge these disparities and bridge the gap so that all mothers receive the care and support they deserve.

was created over fifty years ago by psychologist Edwin Shneidman, PhD and he defined it as the response to those grieving a suicide death where adequate support is created to promote long term healing and eliminate further suicidal risk. Unfortunately, with much emphasis put on suicide prevention, the postvention population is not acknowledged with the same level of urgency it deserves.

Continued on page 11

Melesha

Postvention

continued from page 10

Those Left Behind in Our Communities

It is important to understand what happens when someone dies by suicide. Enveloped by stigma, many of those left behind struggle to make sense of what happened. For those who were in a close or intimate relationship, there is an intense wave of self-blame and guilt. Other manifestations can include trauma-infused brain fog or hopelessness. People who witnessed the death can develop long-lasting, complex traumatic grief. Gone untreated, all these stressors can lead to an increased threat of further self-harm and loss of life.

One of our communities veiled in stigma is our Black population. To their detriment, society has predominantly chosen to support this community as they would support white people. This is not fair to their healing process. Of the more than 48,000 lives lost to suicide in 2021, over 3,800 of those deaths occurred in our Black communities with slightly more than 3,000 of those being males. Sadly, postvention efforts remain a challenge in this community.

According to Markita Madden, who wrote her story of loss for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, she believed she had to uphold the Black culture of being wary to express emotion, particularly anger. If expressed in the wrong setting, emotion from grief could be construed as dangerous. Therefore, emotion tends to be suppressed. While the Black culture is heavily faith based, suicidal thoughts due to repressed grief are hidden because it can be misconstrued by their church as sinful. The perception that the Black community is synonymous with strength inhibits the emotional support a loss survivor would need.

It is imperative to acknowledge that people within the Black community face disparity and hardships all the time. We cannot ignore the systemic racism, the lack of jobs, and floundering economy when

we look at the reasons they die by suicide. But these challenges also impair the ability to find behavioral health care and support from social services when faced with trauma. We also cannot lump the entire Black community together and define them as impoverished people because that simply is not true. But, even for affluent people within Black populations, resources are mostly created for white populations. Therefore, we must do better to create resources that are culturally significant and do not implore stereotypes. For any minority population, this involves learning and understanding cultures that are different than our own and then approaching those people where they are, without preconceived ideas about how to support them.

Healing and Resources

On February 5, 2024, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention launched the L.E.T.S. Save Lives initiative to support mental health equity for Black communities. Through listening, empathy, trust and support, the goal is to create culturally relevant resources for Black communities that would create conversations. Created by Black people, this resource can address how this minority community functions within the scope of discrimination, segregation, their faith communities, and other challenges.

The National Suicide Hotline has been reduced to the simple phone number of 988. This resource is staffed with behavioral health support who are trained for crisis situations. Whether reached by phone or text, this number can also be utilized by a person who is trying to help or support someone else is in crisis.

Journey Thru Grief is a platform that supports survivors of suicide loss with their approach that we cannot have a one-size-fits-all mentality when it come to grief support. Each person grieves in their own way and may be receptive to one resource over another. There needs to be multiple options to choose from.

Through their 4 Phases of Suicide Loss concept, it is understood that there are distinct phases a loss survivor experiences that identifies their emotional growth from the initial devastation through the acceptance of their loss.

We have been silent about this crisis for far too long. To see marked

change in the lives of our suicide loss survivors, it will take overcoming stigma by using active and productive communication, eliminating preconceived ideas, and addressing societal and religious taboos. By coming together as one human community, we can address postvention as the unseen crisis that it is.

Tracy Oeser is the CEO of Postvention Collective, LLC in Springfield, MO. In addition to this educational platform, she also owns Journey Thru Grief, LLC which supports suicide loss survivors directly. Tracy holds both a BA and MS in Psychology and serves as a member of various mental health organizations.

How Organizations Are Working To Save More Black Lives https://wordinblack.com/2024/02/how-organizationsare-working-to-save-more-black-lives/

Unspoken Truths About Mental Health and the African American Community https://afsp.org/story/unspoken-truths-mental-health-and-the-african-american-community

2021 Suicide Data Statistics https:// save.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/ 2021datapgsv1.pdf

2022 Provisional Suicide Data Statistics https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/suicide-data-statistics.html

Call:

Social Security: It’s Past & Future

by Mahailia Boyd, UniteNews Contributing Writer

Social Security has a long and evolving history. The program began with the Social Security Act of 1935. The Act was signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt as a response to the economic challenges of the Great Depression. It was an attempt to limit unforeseen or unprepared dangers of advancing age, unemployment following the stock market crash, poverty, disability, and burdened widow(er) with or without children.

tem, with current workers supporting retirees. The goal of establishing the fund is to collect, hold, and invest until needed to pay benefits to retirement-eligible individuals.

Social Security has undergone numerous changes and expansions. In 1939, amendments to the Social Security Act were made to provide benefits to dependents and survivors of workers who died prematurely.

While its intentions were primarily positive, critics argued bias in its implementation disproportionately excluded certain groups, like the agricultural sector, domestic workers, and ethnic groups.

In 1935, the life expectancy in the United States was significantly lower than today. Life expectancy at birth in the 1930s was 58 years for men, 62 years for women, and the retirement age was 65. According to sources, our government based this value on life expectancy because people wouldn’t live beyond their mid-sixties. In other words, they didn’t expect the workforce average worker wouldn’t live long enough to receive the “fruits of their labor.” Nowadays, advances in healthcare, improved living conditions, and access to public health measures have contributed to people living longer.

When the program began, employees and employers were required to contribute a percentage of the employee’s wages to the Social Security Trust Fund. Social Security receives monies through payroll taxes (FICA) to be a pay-as-you-go sys-

The program adjusted for longer life expectancy and changing demographics of the U.S. population. Before 1937, the full retirement age was 65; from 1960 and later, the retirement age has gradually increased to 67. These changes ensured the program’s long-term solvency as more people lived longer in retirement.

However, debates persist about the program’s financial sustainability of providing monies for retirees, dependents, and survivors of workers who die prematurely, the disabled, or have longer life expectancy.

The main factor contributing to the projected shortage is the demographic shift as the population ages. As baby boomers retire, life expectancy increases, and fewer workers pay into the system versus beneficiaries receiving benefits. This imbalance puts a strain on the Social Security Trust Funds.

According to a recent article in the Trustees Report, projects the Trust Fund reserves will be depleted in 2034. If Congress takes no action to ensure the solvency of Trust Funds, the Social Security program will have enough FICA taxes to pay about 80% of the scheduled benefits.

Continued on page 11

Mahailia Boyd

Voters will determine the direction of Springfield Public School board

by Samuel Knox, UniteNews Staff Writer

On April 2, Springfield voters will have the opportunity to choose three new school board members, with seven candidates competing for the available seats, including three incumbents seeking re-election. Currently, six out of seven board members are in their first three-year term.

The history of the board reflects a pattern of split votes, contentious debates, and divided approaches to leadership and board service. Among the seven candidates contending for the three open seats is Dr. Kyler Sherman-Wilkins, a sociology professor at Missouri State University.

UniteNews recently inquired with Dr. Wilkins about his motivation for running for the school board and the specific experiences or qualifications he brings to the table.

Wilkins: I am running for school board because my experience as an educator, researcher, and steadfast advocate for the institution of public schooling and all students make me uniquely qualified to contribute to the Board of Education’s efforts to address the most pressing challenges facing our district. Moreover, I

believe that a robust public school system is the bedrock of a healthy, vibrant community and that for many Americans, a quality education system staffed by dedicated educators who make up said system is the key to achieving the American Dream. My own personal story highlights the influential role of dedicated public school teachers in shaping a young person’s educational and career trajectory.  I was born to a single mom who lived paycheck to paycheck. Through her instilling in me the value of education, I was able to land my dream job as a university professor. This is the true power of public education: transforming lives. As I look at the educational landscape both in SPS and in districts across the nation, I am concerned that the quality public education that I was blessed to receive is becoming less accessible to many of our students.  I do believe that my experience and expertise in analyzing both quantitative and qualitative data as a researcher, problem solving, consensus building, combined with my passion and commitment for educating our youth will be an asset to the board.

UniteNews: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing our

school district, and how do you plan to address them if elected?

Wilkins: I have identified three top priorities that I believe are among the most pressing issues our district faces. First, attracting and retaining teachers and support staff. To address this issue, I would work to ensure that our teachers are receiving competitive salaries and benefits. To that end, I would support examining the budget and prioritize higher salaries for teachers while rejecting moves to contribute to administrative bloat. Second, student discipline is a top concern. I am supportive of critically examining existing district discipline policy and replacing what is not working well with smart, empathetic, data-driven solutions that center the wellbeing of the child. Lastly, I believe that issues surrounding student safety and a sense of belonging are of top concern. I believe that every child matters and deserves a safe and inclusive space so that they can thrive academically. I will work with my fellow board members and other stakeholders to craft policy that allows us to meet the unique needs and challenges facing our most vulnerable students.

Existing board members:

• Shurita Thomas-Tate, associate professor of Missouri State University. First elected in 2020, her second term expires in 2026.

Candidates running for the Springfield school board. The three elected April 2 will join four existing members. The candidates include:

• Danielle Kincaid, an attorney and partner with the Elder Law Group. She was elected in 2021;

• Scott Crise, manager of gas plant operations, Associated Electric Cooperative Inc. He was elected in 2021;

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• Judy Brunner is a a retired Springfield teacher and principal and chief education officer of Edu-Safe and Instructional Solutions Group. Elected in 2023, her term expires in 2026;

• Kelly Byrne is the principal and managing partner of the Say You Can companies, which specializes in real estate investment and development. Elected in 2022, his term expires in 2025;

• Steve Makoski is director of compliance for Rapid Robert’s Inc. Elected in 2022, his term expires in 2025;

• Landon McCarter, a business owner and entrepreneur, is running for the second time;

• Maryam Mohammadkhani, a retired pathologist who formerly worked at CoxHealth. She was elected in 2021;

• Susan Provance, a retired Springfield teacher and coach, is running for the first time;

• Chad Rollins, director of pharmacy and facility manager for Healthdirect Institutional Pharmacy Services, is running for the second time;

• Kyler Sherman-Wilkins, associate professor at Missouri State University, is running for the first time.

Dr. Kyler Sherman-Wilkins

by Heather Noggle, UniteNews Staff Writer

You have to read this one. It’s our future, and it’s the reason why we must determine how to secure it - to talk about the digital threats of today and tomorrow.

In early February of this year a Hong Kong worker fell for the scam of the decade. He could have stopped it by listening to his “spider sense” and verifying what was happening. Here is the story.

You may have seen the words “deep fake” together in headlines and maybe even in news articles. Early tech for faking and forging were more manual - edited video, images. The book Rising Sun by Michael Creighton (and a movie by the same name starring Sean Connery and Wesley Snipes features a doctored video. Very high tech for the time - 1993.

An image or video considered to be a deep fake is one where it’s been altered to appear as someone else. This is typically exploitative and malicious, especially when the fakes are of public figures.

The scam that enabled the trans-

What is a Deep Fake

fer of 25 million dollars went like this:

The setting: Zoom meeting, online - a work video call.

The participants: AI-generated deep fakes Voices, cloned - the CFO’s voice in particular was cloned and then an imitation built to “talk” at the Zoom meeting.

The ask: the fake-voiced, facecloned CFO asked the target employee- at some point during the meeting - to transfer $25 million dollars. Actually, $25.6 million dollars.

This is a big company. It has that kind of money at its disposal. And this company employee was authorized to make that kind of transfer.

The scammers knew all of this, and in their intricate plan they did the following:

• Made fake video representations of real people

• The voice cloning

• Knew whom to target

• Work past his suspicions

Those suspicions were put to rest when the worker saw the people in the meeting. He recognized them.

The imminent transaction was to be “secret,” so the conversation took on extra importance.

The transfer began - $200 million HKD, or Hong Kong Dollars. To move this much money, it took 15 separate transfers. During each of these transfers, the employee could have stopped to verify.

Now, the Hong Kong police have made 6 arrests thus far. The employee who authorized the transfer did become suspicious enough to report his actions.

The question is - how do we tell what’s real? If we can’t trust our ears and eyes on a video meeting, what do we do?

We verify in other ways. Had the employee stopped and called the corporate office to verify - or stalled until

he could do so - this could have been averted. Pressure to please executives, though, probably quashed this good behavior.

If it’s digital, it’s hackable. We humans are emotionally hackable, but, thus far, it’s unlikely our limbs and other physical attributes will be hackable.

Ars Technica gave more advice: “The police have offered tips for verifying the authenticity of individuals in video calls, such as asking them to move their heads or answer questions that confirm their identity, especially when money transfer requests are involved. Another potential solution to deepfake scams in corporate environments is to equip every employee with an encrypted key pair, establishing trust by signing public keys at in-person meetings. Later, in remote communications, those signed keys could be used to authenticate parties within the meeting.”

If you’re curious about the encryption option of public and private keys, research PGP - or pretty good privacy.

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

Anthony Tolliver inducted into MO Sports Hall of Fame

Missouri,MO—On February 4, the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame ushered in its Class of 2024, and it featured a National Basketball Association player named Anthony Tolliver.

A graduate of Kickapoo High School in 2003, Tolliver contributed significantly to the Chiefs’ success, helping them secure the 2003 Class 5 state championship, achieve a remarkable 30-1 record, and attain the No. 12 national ranking in USA Today. He maintained an impres-

sive average of 15.2 points and 6.5 rebounds throughout the season, earning recognition as All-State by both the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association and the state sportswriters and sportscasters’ group.

During his time at Creighton University, Tolliver served as a three-year starter, participating in 124 games. He scored 1,004

points and secured 603 rebounds during his tenure. His contributions aided the Bluejays in advancing to the NCAA Tournament in 2005 and 2007 following their triumph in the Missouri Valley Conference.

Anthony Tolliver

After graduating in 2007, Tolliver embarked on a distinguished 13-season career in the National Basketball Association (NBA), representing 11 different teams. Begin-

ning with the San Antonio Spurs in his rookie year, he subsequently played for the Portland Trail Blazers, Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Charlotte Hornets, Phoenix Suns, Detroit Pistons, Sacramento Kings, Memphis Grizzlies, and Philadelphia 76ers. Tolliver participated in over 700 NBA games, accumulating more than 4,400 points and securing more than 2,400 rebounds. Notably, four teams reached the playoffs during his tenure.

Branford Marsalis & MoJo perform at the 2024 Gillioz Jazz Festival

Missouri, MO—On April 6, 2024

Branford Marsalis takes the stage of the historic Gillioz Theatre as the headlining artist of the 2024 Gillioz Jazz Festival. He will share the stage with the Missouri Jazz Orchestra (MOJO).

New Orleans-born

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

Get VIP tickets to the Gillioz Jazz Festival which includes a premium seat to this event and much more!

VIP includes: - Plated meal - Premium beverage availavility, including a premium bar throughout the Branford Marsalis & MOJO concert in Commons - Exclusive performance in intimate Gallery setting - Preferred reserved seating in Branford Marsalis & MOJO concert.

VIP tickets are sold as tables on 2, 4, or 6. VIP event starts at 6:30 pm.

For regular tickets and more information, contact: ticketsales.com

Three were honored at the 10th Annual MBA Heritage Awards Banquet

Missouri, MO—Last month the Multicultural Business Association along with their partner the Community Partnership of the Ozarks held their 10th Annual Heritage Awards Banquet at the Barley House at Moon Town Crossing. Due to unforseen circustances, scheduled guest speakers were unable to attend. However, John Farmer De La Torre stepped in as Keynote speaker for the evening.

Three awards were presented by Frances Stallcup including Ladonna Mexican Restaurant, Best New Small Business; Wes Pratt, Small Business Community Advocate; and Big Momma’s Coffee & Espresso Bar, Small Business of the Year.

For more information about joining the Multicultural Business Association, go to their website: www.mbasgf.com

Branford Marsalis

Big Momma’s Coffee & Espresso Bar Owners

LaDonna Mexican Restaurant Owners

Wes Pratt & Frances Stallcup Photos courtesy of Jeffery Bates