Unite News - Dec 2012

December Unite Page 12

December 2012 Volume 22/ Number 12 • A Monthly Publication by Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc •

www.unitenewsonline.org

UNITE.

Have A Merry Christmas From The Unite Staff December 25, 2012

Building Empowering Connections In Our Diverse Community

Springfield, MO—The Ladies' Civic League invites the community to come with your family for fun and feast as they celebrate the principles of Kwanzaa. The event is scheduled for Sunday, December 30, 2012 at the Springfield Creamery Art Center 411 N. Sherman Ave., 6:00 p.m.

New Officers Were Elected For The Springfield Branch NAACP Springfield, MO—The Springfield NAACP held their branch election, November 17, 2012. The officers and board members at large will assume their new positions January 2013. The election results are as follows: Officers: • Cheryl Clay, President reelected •Wes Pratt, 1st Vice President Continued on page 2

MIB Calls For 2013 Heritage Awards Nominees See Story On Page 6

Obama Wins 2012 Re-Election Promises “Better Days Ahead”

Associated Press—President Obama made history again by beating former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney in the 2012 U.S. presidential election, despite a weak economy that has plagued Americans for the last few years. During his victory speech to a crowd in Chicago, he confidently promised that there are "better days ahead".

Obama captured Ohio, Wisconsin, Iowa, Virginia, New Hampshire, Colorado and Nevada, seven of the nine states where the rivals and their allies poured nearly $1 billion into dueling television commercials.

Attorney Kelby Stuckey Stands Tall

by Vera Jane Goodin Schultz Unite Contributing Writer

for people who are willing to sacrifice and work hard. We preach that in the From basketball United States, but it is court to courtthe absolute truth and room, Kelby I think I'm the living Stuckey stands proof.” tall and strives Originally from the hard. west inner city of St. He believes the Louis, Stuckey travKelby Stuckey U.S., “truly is the eled far world-wise land of opportunity and and career-wise, seizing truly does provide opportunity the opportunities to experience Photo by Vera Jane Goodin Schultz

Celebrate Kwanzaa At The Creamery December 30, 2012

two dream jobs: professional basketball player and attorney.

The Missouri State University Sports Hall of Fame Inductee played basketball for Missouri State University from 1985 until 1989 when he graduated. Then he played professionally mostly in Europe. After 14 years, he retired to pursue his other dream.

“Ever since I was a kid I wanted to be an attorney. I Continued on page 2

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Kelby Stuckey

continued from page 1 didn't know how to go about doing it. The thing about minority kids is we don't see ourselves as attorneys, we see ourselves as so many things, but rarely do we say, ‘Hey I'd like to be that,’ because we don't have a lot of minority attorneys as role models especially in the inner city.

An attorney is someone from a big building a lot different from yours, who looks a lot different from you, whose background is a lot different from yours, and you just kind of see that as something that is not attainable,” he said.

“Hopefully, taking the path that I've taken I will be able to effect the lives of others, not only minorities, but it's impor-

tant for them to know that I come from a similar background and if I am able to do it they can do it,” Stuckey said.

To become a lawyer, Stuckey attended St. Louis University School of Law. He received his Juris Doctorate in 2009.

“I came to clerk with Lathrop & Gage LLP until I passed the bar. I was with them for about 15 months,” Stuckey said.

Stuckey became an assistant city attorney for the City of Springfield in February 2012.

Stuckey describes his work as, “Good, very good. There is a sense of doing good work, helping people with the situations in their lives. Sometimes it is being able to show them the tough circumstances which they face and how they can change, especially with the young people. You feel

Kwanzaa 2012 Save the Date!

UMOJA Unity KUJICHAGULIA Self-determination

AN AFRICAN AMERICAN CELEBRATION OF FAMILY, COMMUNITY and CULTURE

UJIMA Collective Work and Responsibility

Sunday, December 30, 2012

UJAMAA Cooperative Economics

Springfield Creamery Art Center

NIA Purpose

Springfield, MO

KUUMBA Creativity IMANI Faith

6:00 p.m.

411 N. Sherman

Sponsored by

The Ladies Civic League Everyone invited!

Parking available in the Springfield Cardinal lot or the Springfield Creamery Art Center Lot

like you provide a public sertant. He finds opportunities in vice.” the vast number of issues and He wants people to think departments that make up city about the consequences of their government along with legal actions and stop risky behaviors. issues surrounding municipal “Hopefully people will think functions. twice before Professionthey make ally, Stuckey those decisions wants to beagain after come the best being involved attorney posin the courts. sible; perhaps a From speeding judge someday. to DWI to oth“My ultimate er ordinance personal goal violations-is to be a good some people father, raise my do these things children to be and it just goes respectful and right over value educatheir heads tion, to value Attorney Kelby Stuckey that there is a the feelings and residual effect,” Stuckey said. perspectives of others different On a typical day, his job infrom them,” he said. cludes going to court representStuckey mentors young ing the City. people and serves on boards “The good thing about our like that of the Big Brothers Big country is you have the right Sisters of the Ozarks. to be heard and I think that's Basketball remains impora very important aspect of our tant. He coaches children’s society. We get the opportunity teams and works with Ned Reynto let people air those concerns olds in providing commentary and to a degree we get to exon men’s college games. plain to them why it is important “It's important for young that they get to do so,” Stuckey people to know you don't have said. to be the biggest or most talHe also does case preparaented player, if you are willing to tions, analyzes complaints or dedicate yourself and work hard tickets, prepares plea agreeat it, you can be good not only ments, and prepares for jury in sports but anything,” Stuckey trials. said.

Continuing to grow, gain His advice is: “Focus, work experiences and develop as a hard, blaze a trail--don't follow a municipal attorney is imporpath.”

NAACP Election continued from page 1

• David Knox, 2nd Vice President • Susan Marshall, Secretary, re-elected • Francine Pratt, Treasurer, re-elected Board member at large:

• Carolyn Hembree, re-elected • Lola Butcher • Robert King • TaJuan Wilson, re-elected • Tim Ferguson All officers and board members at large will be installed at Q' Enoteca 318 W. Commercial; December 7, 2012, at 7:00 p.m.

Thinking Of Our Middle Aged And Elderly Family Members Services would have a field day with them and their goose grease, and asperity bags for colds. I don't I pray a lot for my mother, and know if the spellings right but they my Grandmother who is now 91 smelled so bad and you had to years in age. Like my mother I wear it around your neck. Believe have become a praying mother, me, a lot of children didn't get I thought about all the sick cause they knew. I things I was taught as remember once getting a child. Like fishing, stung by a bee on my digging for worms, how hand. Granny use to to find night crawlers opchew, so she took some pose to small worms —usout of her mouth and ing dough bait if you had put it on the sting. I was no worms. We learned thinking, gross, but it quilting, sewing, crochet, worked. knitting; we learned how I'm saying all this to Tonja Osborne to plant gardens, how to say, I look at the young preserve food. We learned what people today who seem very differplants, berries, poke greens, and ent. They show little or no interest in these things. I also look at how which trees bare fruit. We learned God's lovely planet and think, that about things you could eat from he made all of this for us. the land and survive. A lot of you Animals, insects, trees, birds, know what I'm talking about. lots of these things have become Texas Street was full of peach trees, pear trees, crab apples, extinct. You have to ask yourself, blackberry bushes, grapes, and when Christ comes again to judge Honey suckle flowers that if you us, are we ready? Have our chilate the tip you could taste honey. dren been equipped to survive Elderly people could feed a from the land if they had to while multitude of people with small we wait. portions. Back then, they had large Mother always used to say if families. They taught young ladies you don't know better you won't how to dress in a modest manner, do better. We should honor our which would require men to show elders, they should never be respect to you. They taught how disregarded or disrespected. We important marriage is, so your chilshould be learning all we can from dren could carry on the last names them — taking the time to sit down of their fathers, it is also Biblical. and listen to those old stories they It was also romantic to see a have. They are special to us and nervous young man on one knee have everything to do with our asking for your hand in marriage, existence. Many have died to make a way for us. We must never forget. after he ask your father first. For I know some of the younger minme, I remember when you could isters are trying to reach young go to about anyone's house and adults and that's wonderful. they had food prepared. Even You cannot let that take you people you didn't know, knew they away from where you come from, could get something to eat. God and how many people died, cried, had to be blessing these people and prayed for you to be in the because they never ran out of food. position you are in now. God Bless After church you were always You. going some were to eat. Something For info:queentosborne-1110@ else I remember are old remedies. yahoo /gmet.ps@gmaii.com I told my mother one day Child

Kevin “Elmo” Clash Resigns From “Sesame Street” the subject of the 2011 documentary "Being Elmo: A Puppeteer's Journey."

By Tonja Osborne Letter to the Editor

Kevin Clash and Elmo

Blacknews.com —Kevin Clash, the famous voice and puppeteer behind Elmo for the last 28 years, has officially resigned from Sesame Street in the wake of allegations that he had sex with at least two under-aged minors. The first accuser recanted his allegations, but now a second accuser has already filed a lawsuit in New York seeking $5 million in damages, alleging that at age 15, he was persuaded by Clash to meet for sexual encounters.

Sesame Workshop, the organization behind the show, released a statement, saying "the controversy surrounding Kevin's personal life has become a distraction that none of us want... he can no longer be effective in his job, [and] this is a sad day for Sesame Street."

Clash was more than just "Elmo" to Sesame Street; He was also the show's senior Muppet coordinator and Muppet captain. For his work, he has won 23 daytime Emmy awards and one prime-time Emmy. He also published a bestselling autobiography, "My Life as a Furry Red Monster," and was

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A Directory of local and regional health resources AIDS Federal hotline; 24 hours a day, everyday, including holidays.

1-800-590-AIDS (2437) Local office: 417-881-1900 Alzheimer’s Disease 1-800-272-3900 Alzheimer's Dementia Workshop Lynette Adams Springfield, MO Any size class available 417-866-6878 American Stroke Association Learn more about strokes by calling 1-888-4-STROKE Cancer Resource Network 1-800-227-2345 Diabetes Hotline Division of Cox Medical Center North 417-269-3737 Medicare Information Medicare Information Hotline 1-800-494-7355 Mental Health Crisis Hotline Counseling needs & crisis intervention 1-800-494-7355 National Parkinson Foundation Education, announcements, links to related sites 1-800-327-4545 www.parkinson.org OTC Dental Hygiene Clinic Provides low cost dental care for adults and children; performed by students under the supervision of faculty and local dentists.

Cleanings, X-rays and exams For adults $50. for children $35.

Call 417-447-8835 to make appt.

DHSS/ Office Of Minority Health The mission is to eliminate health disparities through assertive leadership, advocacy support, and visible interaction with minority communities in Missouri.

Call: 1-800-877-3180

IN THIS ISSUE

Health & Mental Fitness Exercise improves doctor-patient communication

By Genevra Pittman NEW YORK (Reuters Health) A short waiting room exercise encouraging African American patients to reflect on their personal values helped improve communication between the patients and their white doctors, in a new study.

However, those patients didn't rate their trust in their doctor or satisfaction with the appointment any higher, compared to those who didn't do the "values affirmation" exercise.

Patients and doctors interact differently when they are of different races, compared to when both are white or both are African American, research has shown. Some of that could be due to doctors' own unconscious racial or ethnic biases.

"Those issues play themselves out in subtle ways in how medical care gets delivered," said Dr. Edward Havranek, the study's lead researcher from the Denver Health Medical Center.

But so-called cultural competence training programs for doctors haven't been shown to improve interracial doctor-patient relationships.

Another theory is that minority patients fear they'll be judged by stereotypes - and their stress from that fear impedes communication with their doctor, whether or not the doctor is really biased.

"If black patients believe that the doctor's going to stereotype them because of their race, they may not behave to their full potential during the visit," said Dr. Howard Gordon, from the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center in Chicago and the University of

Illinois at Chicago.

Havranek told Reuters Health.

"They may feel inhibited; The researchers said it's possible the positive effects they did they may not ask questions during the visit." see on patient-doctor interaction By helping minority patients would be enough to encourage African Americans to stick to focus on their own positive their blood pressure drugs more qualities and values, researchclosely. But they weren't able ers believe, those patients might not be as preoccupied with the to measure that outcome in the possibility of being treated difcurrent study, published Monday in the Archives of Internal ferently.

Medicine.

Havranek's study involved 99 Patients asking more quesAfrican American patients with tions "is good, but that's all high blood pressure who had an they showed. They didn't show appointment with their non-Afthat their blood rican American primary care ... issues play them- pressure's better doctor. selves out in subtle ways controlled. They About half in how medical care didn't show that they're less likely of the patients gets delivered... to have a stroke, were given a questionnaire in the hour before or kidney disease or heart their appointment asking them attack," Gordon, who studies to reflect on their personal valracial disparities and patient-docues and think about times when tor communication but wasn't those values were important. involved in the new research, Audio recordings of the visits told Reuters Health. showed that after filling out "Theoretically if someone those surveys, African Ameriasks more questions, then they can patients requested - and know more, and that will make were provided with - a bit more them more likely to stick to their information about their medical doctor's (recommendations) condition. Conversations with and take their medications. And their doctors also tended to be if they take their medications, more positive and friendly. their blood pressure will be betBut there was no difference ter controlled," he said. "But this in how often doctors dominated study didn't show that yet." the conversations and no more The "values affirmation" discussion about patients' treatintervention might have more ment or lifestyle issues after the of an effect on minority patients exercise. before they visit new specialists On post-visit patient surveys, they don't already know, accordthere was no change in their ing to Havranek. stress, satisfaction or trust But Gordon said how well in their doctor, compared to it would work in real-life waitpatients who weren't given the ing rooms, where a lot of other personal value questionnaires. things are going on and there "It clearly wasn't a home are other forms to be filled out, run. It didn't have the major effects that we had hoped for," is still an open question.

Community News

You Can Check Out A Free Family Pass To Visit Discovery Center

by Kathleen O’Dell , Springfield-Greene County Library District Everyone knows you can check out books at the Library, but did you know you can also check out a free family pass for four to visit the Discovery Center of Springfield?

You can! And the holidays would be a great time to visit.

Families can check out a free, seven-day pass with a valid library card at any of the 10 library branches.

The family passes were purchased with part of a grant from the Missouri Parent Information Resource Center, U.S. Department of Education, Office of Improvement and Innovation. The goal is to help parents provide quality educational experiences for their children.

The Librar y has 20 reusable Discover y Center family passes that are placed in the branches for checkout.

How it works: Each pass admits up to four people – at least one adult and no more than three children age 3 and older. The passes are for general admission only and cannot apply to special events or member discounts.

Using a valid library card, a family can check out a pass and use it for unlimited visits for seven days. The pass expires after seven days.

Patrons may check out one pass at a time. Passes are not renewable and cannot be put on “hold.” Lost passes cannot be replaced. Patrons must present the continued on page 5

4

The State of the Children: 2012 and Beyond

by Gwen Marshall

Business Resource Guide

6

Calls For 2013 Heritage Awards Nominees

by MIB, Lola Butcher

Lifestyle & Entertainment News

8

Food & Movie Review

UNITE.

Volume 22, Number 12 Publisher Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc. Managing Editor Samuel G. Knox Contributing Writers Lyle Foster Mia Jackson-Huskisson Kim Jones Gwen Marshall Kathleen O'Dell Photography David Huskisson Dr. David N Knox

by Lyle Foster

Health & Mental Fitness

10

Distribution Bradley Knox

Exercise improves doctor-patient communication

Volunteers Tyra Knox Kerri McGrew Angelor Wilkes

by Genevra Pittman

The Unite. publication is a

Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home, Inc. The quality and care that you expect in 242 years of combined experience

W. Bruce Howell Robert J. Lohmeyer Don R. Lohmeyer Marquis D. Howell, Jr Heather K. Howell Angela N. Collins Harley R. Williams Clint W. Mease Winford R Laster

(417)886-9994 • Fax: (417) 886-9996 • 1947 E. Seminole • Springfield, MO 65804

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Unite of Southwest Missouri, Inc. a 501(c)(3) non-profit community organization.

Distribution of Unite. is by free

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However, request for home delivery by mail may be directed to Unite.

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Those wishing to make a

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City Employment Link The City of Springfield offers a variety of municipal career opportunities for individuals interested in public service.

Job opportunities are updated each Friday and can be accessed through a number of mediums: Web: http://www. springfieldmo.gov/jobs; or Phone: Jobs Hotline at 417-8641606; or TV: CityView on Medicacom Cable Digital Channel 80; or In Person: visiting our offices at 840 Boonville, Room 324, Springfield, MO 65802.

The City is fully committed to a policy of hiring without regard to age, sex, race, religion, national origin, or disability. The City is an equal opportunity/ affirmative action employer.

spondence to the same address.

Readers comments and ques-

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For further information, you

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Email: unitepublication@yahoo.com

December Unite Page 9

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CommunitySection

Movie Review

continued from page 8

The State of the Children: 2012 and Beyond Gwendolyn Marshall Office of Cultural Diversity, SPS

ing to Marian Wright Edelman, president of the Children’s Defense Fund, “ there are 16.4 million poor children in There is a familiar rich America, 7.4 milAfrican proverb that lion living in extreme states “it takes a village poverty. A majority of to raise a child.” public school students The Maasai people and more than three of Kenya greet each out of four Black and other with the quesHispanic children (who tion, “How are the will be a majority of Gwen Marshall children?” our child population by I would like to greet our 2019) are unable to read or comreading audience this month pute at grade level in the fourth with that same question, “How or eighth grade. This means are the children?” they will likely be unprepared Here are some numbers that to succeed in our increasingly tell part of the answer. Accordcompetitive global economy.

Flu Season is Here

Nobody wants the flu.

Minority H

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S er v

ices

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ar

of

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ep iD Missour

Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services

Offi ce

Don’t let a high fever, sore throat, runny nose and body aches keep you from the activities you love. Get protected all season long.

Contact your doctor or visit mo.gov to find a clinic near you.

e tm &S ent o f Health

Office of Minority Health 800.877.3180

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER Services provided on a nondiscriminatory basis.

Nearly eight million children are uninsured. More children were killed by guns in 2008-2009 than U.S. military personnel in both the Iraq and Afghanistan wars to date. A Black boy born in 2001 has a one in three chance of going to prison in his lifetime; a Latino boy a one in six chance of the same fate.”

“Millions of children are living hopeless, poverty- and violence-stricken lives in the war zones of our cities; in the educational deserts of our rural areas; in the moral deserts of our corrosive culture that saturates them with violent, materialistic, and individualistic messages; and in the leadership deserts of our political and economic life where greed and self interest trump the common good over and over. Millions of our children are being left behind without the most basic human supports they need to survive and thrive when parents alone cannot provide for them at a time of deep economic downturn, joblessness, and low wage jobs that place a ceiling on economic mobility for millions as America’s dream dims.”

The Children’s Defense Fund has just released The State of America’s Children® 2012 Handbook. This report is a portrait of where our children are right now and a tool to spur us to set the vision of where we need to go to stop the downward mobility of our children and grandchildren and the shrinking of America’s future.

Families, schools, and communities can help change these looming numbers by preparing children and teens to THRIVE

through both good and challenging times. Building Resilience in Children and Teens, written

by Dr. Kenneth Ginsburg, offers strategies to help kids from 18 months to 18 years build seven crucial “Cs” — competence, confidence, connection, character, contribution, coping, and control — so they can excel in life and bounce back from challenges. As parents and educators, our desire is to raise authentically successful children who will be happy, hardworking, compassionate, creative, and innovative. It’s about more than immediate smiles and perfect grades; it’s about raising kids to be emotionally and socially intelligent, to be able to recover from disappointment and forge ahead throughout their lives.

The stable connection between caring adults and children is the key to the security that allows continued on page 5 Important Dates To Remember December 20, 2012 End of Second Quarter December 20, 2012 End of First Semester December 21, 2012 Professional Learning /Work Day (Students Out All Day) December 24-31, 2012 Winter Vacation January 1, 2013 Winter Vacation Continues January 2, 2013 Classes Resume ACT Test Dates February 9, 2013 Registration Deadline January 11, 2013

that he has it out for M. James Bardem is being touted for his exceptional performance and I have to admit the man plays the part to the max.

No James Bond movie is incomplete without the beautiful accomplice in crime and this time there is no exception with Naomie Harris playing Eve another M16 agent who helps Bond get out of a few tight situations. She is stunning and turns in a great job as well. I am not trying to throw out all these props; the film is good and well acted.

I also enjoyed the filming which shows some great parts of London and filming in Turkey and it is beautiful.

Judi Dench plays M for the sixth time and as mentioned earlier we get some more insight into her background with Bond and we also get to see some of

Food Review

continued from page 8 already eaten it in other cities.

I was introduced to the chain by my daughter who basically said "You have to try my favorite hamburger place in town"...

I will say more about it once I have gone to the local ones. But if you haven't gone before you may want to make a mental note to check it out when you can.

Another place that is already opened is the Hibachi Grill and Buffet at 1950 E. Kearny. This is in the former location of Ryan's which I know that many of you frequently visited. I am not going to lie, I am not a big buffet fan due to some bad experiences that I am not going into in this column so my opinions are biased. But if you are a buffet fan and like a lot of food for a reasonable price you may want to give this location a chance.

the tension between the official government and the British spy operations.

In one scene M makes some pretty interesting statements about who our enemies really are in the terrorist world we live in now.

There is a lot to do for the holidays and the trifecta of the the Twilight series new installment, Skyfall and Lincoln has resulted in a record weekend for movie sales in the country.

But if you get tired of shopping in the store or online take a break and see Skyfall. But if you have time for two movies you must also see Lincoln which is the next review....it is riveting and some incredible acting!

Both of these movies are well over 2 hours in length so you definitely feel like you get your money's worth and that is a good thing! Skyfall is rated PG13 for primariy violence....there is some sexuality but nothing over the top.

Skyfall.......95 out of 100 They also have sushi if you are a fan and the cashew chicken receives really strong reviews. The service has been criticized but I would give a word of caution on that....when you are going to a buffet you need to adjust your expectations and not expect to be waited on hand and foot like you may reasonably expect at a fine dining establishment.

Recently a new joint has opened on the far south side on El Camino Drive none other than Freddys' Steakburgers and frozen custard. This place is popular and has a lot of devoted followers...it is definitely in the casual eating category and is a great family place to take the kids. While I am writing this the idea of frozen custard seems a bit remote but winter will be over and all of us custard lovers will soon be in line for their great product.

A place that I reviewed earlier

this year and has been a great get away for me is Rebecca Grill and the Olive Juice Lounge on Walnut in center city. I like the location because it i convenient and I am crazy about their chicken corn chowder soup. I have gone to the brunch as well and the omlets are good and worth checking out on a Saturday or Sunday. I referred some friends and they seemed to have had a different experience based on their satisfaction with how their meat was cooked. I followed up as I was disappointed and concerned since I recommended them and was told they ordered their meat prepared differently... maybe it was a communication gap I don't know. But I have enjoyed this new addition to the downtown scene especially since it is local and it keeps downtown vibrant. I never see a big crowd in there which makes me a bit nervous because I hope they

make it!!!

One of the things that I know is true for most of us is that we have our favorite places and tend to go there when the eating out bug strikes but my hope is that through reading this column and noticing the new places sprouting up and old places getting new uses we will strike out and find some new places to eat and ultimately make them a favorite? My other little getaway spot in 2012 was the northside location of Houlihan's because it usually wasn't crowded and the atmosphere is really inviting and very comfortable. I would get almost the same thing....the baked potato soup and burger and sometimes the salmon instead.

Did you have a favorite getaway place?...I would love to know what it was....please tell me about it so I can check it out as well!

City of Springfield project bids Open for business – Open to all The City of Springfield Division of Purchases welcomes all contractors and vendors to participate in the City’s bid opportunities for providing needed supplies, equipment, and services to the City. Information and notification about bidding is open to all, and there is never a charge.

To view or download all current documents for bidding opportunities with the Division of Purchases, please go to our website at: Springfieldmo.gov/purchasing, and click on ‘Bid Processing Center.’

Contractors, consultants and other types of vendors may also sign up to receive notifications of the City’s future bid opportunities based on the type of services they provide. This service can be found by clicking on ‘Bid Notification Service’ on the Purchasing website. There is a fee (for use of a third party notification service).

The City’s Department of Public Works also uses the City website to let contractors know about upcoming construction projects. Go to Springfieldmo.gov/departments/publicworks and look for the ‘Notices To Contractors’ box. The links will direct you to a virtual plans room for more information on projects.

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LifeStyle&EntertainmentNews Movie Review: James Bond - Skyfall 007

by Lyle Foster Unite Contributing Writer

features Mr. Daniel Craig as the infamous secret agent.

The film costs about 200 milJames Bond still entertains.... lion to make.....that is a lot of totally! Well if you have been on coin but don't feel bad for the the planer for a few years the studios they have brought in name James Bond about 800 million so far is not a new concept which seems like a nice to you as there have return on investment been a number of to me. The series has installments of the distinguished itself as highly successful franBritish filmmaking at its chise over the years best and the use of very and the latest one talented Brits has only does not disappoint. assisted the current film Lyle Foster In fact it delivers to be a heart pounding with gripping action actions packed and adventure as well as superb success. acting. Well yea it sounds like With its signature theme I am a fan. Truth be told many music that you instantly confolks like a good spy movie nect with (did you know that the every now and then and this music score has received sevfranchise is at the top of its eral nominations for its music game. themes...not won too many The current film Skyfall is though) and they usual array of the 23rd film in the Bond series super cool gadgets and amazing having begun with the 1963 Dr. cars Skyfall brings out all the No. Does anybody remember stops. that one? Wow that sounds like The music does deserve a a long time ago....well it was 50 little bit more mention as theme years ago and the franchise has songs have been belted by Ray been off and running ever since Charles and Tina Turner in with the first films being played the past. Skyfall features none

by Sean Connery. other than the British megastar The current installment Adele and many are raving

about her music already and the songs are already a hit.

One of the things I like about the current installment is you get a little bit more of the history of James Bond himself, his relationship to M and some more insight into the M16 organization.

The basic plot is the movie is that a computer drive has been lost and it contains a list of British agents. Mr. Bond has the assignment to recover that drive. In an early action scene which is © 2012 MGM quite spectacular because it occurs on top of a moving train. And I am not giving out too much as it is in all of the previews. In a decision made by M herself James Bond ends up dead....or at least all signs point to that. The situation for M16 and its headquarters continues to become even more serious as a number of

agents are lost in several different ways....enough so that the very injured Mr. Bond has to return. Now I didn't give that away because we all know we can't have Skyfall if Mr. Bond is dead.

What ensues upon his return is action packed with enough of a plot to keep you engaged and for me there were a few times I was on the edge of my seat and once I was even punching my arms at an imaginary villain. Once I realized people were staring at me and I was making a spectacle of myself I returned to eating my popcorn and regained my composure.

True story. The villain played

by James Bardem is insane but in that crazy way that leaves the plot full of surprises and we learn that he has it our for continued on page 9

Food Review: Favorite Spots In Town

by Lyle Foster Unite Contributing Writer Favorite Eating Spots in Town!!!

Sometimes at the end of the year I like to reminisce a little bit and think what were the dining experiences that really stood our for me or for people that I talked with throughout the year.

The truth is we live in a town that loves to eat out even though

it tends to be in a certain price point we have a lot of restaurants for a town our size.

Now I usually don't like to get in the chains too much and the fast food category but the opening of Popeye's on Glenstone has created quite a stir in town and it is wildly popular. Of course what is there to not like about Popeyes especially those biscuits and honey. The custom-

er service there has been really good and I think this installment of Popeye's in Springfield is going to be a lasting one. I hear from some peeps that they find their cars going through the drive-in there several times a week. Well you know about Popeye's and that spicy fried chicken but every now and then.....well you know!!!

There are some fans eagerly

awaiting the opening of Five Guys Burgers and Fries which is slated to open by the end of November just in time for the shopping season. One is at the Town and Country shopping center on No. Kansas Expressway and the other one is at Battlefield Mall. There is a built-in audience for the popular burger place as many local folks have continued on page 9

Gwen Marshall

The Library

continued from page 4

continued from page 3

kids to creatively master challenges and reach their highest potential.

The parent-child relationship, like teacher-student relationship, is called a “core relation.”

Students generally can survive any obstacle if core relationships are in place.

How are the children? The answer lies with the village.

Can the village come together to build resilient young people, who are able to overcome the unbelievable stress they face today. The answer is, yes. So, to every adult I say, “Be the village.” Let’s reach and teach by getting involved in the lives or our young people. Let’s give them the support and security they need. “Together, we can!”

pass and a photo ID at the Discovery Center.

Details about the passes are available in each library.

••• The new “Lincoln” movie has generated renewed interest in the president and the Emancipation Proclamation, which turns 150 years old on Jan. 1, 2013.

Just in time, the Library will feature a Lincoln actor during a series of lectures, exhibits and theater Jan. 8-13 at the Library Center and other sites to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the 1863 Battle of Springfield, Marmaduke’s Raid and the Emancipation Proclamation.

Lincoln scholar Fritz Klein will portray, in costume, Abraham Lincoln in a dramatic performance at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 9, in the Librar y Center auditorium. Klein will give Lincoln’s presidential and personal perspective on slavery, emancipation and the difficulties in Missouri. A town hall-style forum for questions will follow. The event is free and open to the public.

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

GMET Church Presents Gospel Purpose 2012: “Revival In Song”, December 6, 7 & 8 Springfield, MO—A revival in song, Gospel Purpose 2012 is scheduled at Greater Metropolitan Church, 1400 N. West Ave. December 6-8, 2012 nightly at 7:00 p.m. Each night will be hosted by Quinci Williams, from Deliverance Temple, with special word from Bishop Lester Woods, Jr, Urban Empowerment, Columbia, MO. Guest include, E.P.I.C.; Timmons TempleCOGIC; Urban Empowerment; Christian Tabernacle; Acts of Praise Whole Life Ministry; Pocketful of Harmonics; Aleisha Gilliam and many more!!!

For more information call Moniqua Bell (417) 619-5305 email: gmet.music@gmail.com

Subscribe To The Unite Publication Building Empowering Connections In Our Diverse Community

Distinctive Mission, Remarkable Education Affordable Choice, Unbeatable Value Memorable Experiences, Lifetime Success

Missouri State University is currently recruiting diverse staff and faculty to add to the growing University system.

www.missouristate.edu/jobs Vacancy recording: 417-836-4683

Successful candidates must be committed to working with diverse student and community populations.

Only $25. per year

Call: (417) 864-7444

Employment will require a criminal background check at University expense.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Institution

December Unite Page 7

December Unite Page 6

A Directory of free or low cost Business Assistance Minorities In Business Monthly Networking Meeting 417.861-0760 Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce www.spfldchamber.com 417.862.5567 Small Business Administration (SBA) www.sba.gov 417.864.7670 Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) www.score.org 417.864.7670 Drury University - Breech Center / Student in Free Enterprise www.drury.edu 417.873.7243 Ozarks Technical Community College www.otc.edu 417.895.7158 The Library Center Business Reference thelibrary.springfield.missouri.org 417.874.8110

Small Business & Technology Development Center

sbtdc.missouristate.edu 417.836.5685 • Loan assistance • Financial analysis • Business planning • Marketing products • Trademark searches • Training seminars (business planning, business valuation, business management, finance, human resources, QuickBooks, marketing and international trade)

Business ResourceGuide MIB Calls For 2013 Heritage Awards Nominees

by Lola Butcher MIB Board Member Minorities in Business, a nonprofit organization that promotes economic development and business opportunities, has opened nominations for the 2013 MIB Heritage Awards, which recognize outstanding individuals and organizations for their achievements and contributions to our community.

“It is our great pleasure each year to recognize the valuable leaders that are working to promote and advocate for diversity in our business community,” said John Oke-Thomas, President of Minorities in Business. “We encourage everyone to consider how fortunate

we are to have good leadership profit small business with provand to take a few minutes to en success in the chosen field. nominate worthy individuals • Nominee must have been in and organizations so that they business for at least three years. may be publicly acknowledged.” • Nominee must maintain a The third annual awards pro- responsible and rewarding gram adds a new workplace envi...recognize category: Small ronment. outstanding individuals Business of the • Demonstrated and organizations for Year. This award leadership their achievements and is intended to recthrough commucontributions to our ognize a business nity volunteerism community. for its exemplary and contributions success. or in-kind services.

Nominations for awards in • Demonstrated customer satisthe following categories will be faction and engagement. accepted through Dec. 31, 2012.

The Achievement Award, Nominees for the Small honoring an individual for his or Business of the Year Award her leadership and commitment will be evaluated on these to making our community a criteria: better place to live and work. continued on page 7 • Business must be a viable for-

When Talking Real Estate: Be Informed

by Kim Jones Unite Contributing Writer

aspirations for obtaining your new home. A good place to start is where you bank. Local realty As the end of 2012 apcompanies are also an excellent proaches and a new resource for lender reyear is upon us, now ferrals. The key to beis the perfect time to ing informed is to ask examine the possibility questions. There are of owning your own many terms and forms home or perhaps the associated with the purchase of a smaller home buying process or larger home. of which the average Kim Jones Whether contemplatperson may have little ing your first purchase or no knowledge. Do not or simply a change in location, hesitate to ask for clarification if there are two steps that must any term or requirement is not initially be completed in order clearly understood. to achieve a successful transacBE PREPARED: The most tion: 1) Be informed, and 2) Be common obstacle to home ownprepared. ership is financing. The most BE INFORMED: Find a common obstacle to financing is local lender and discuss your bad credit. Review your credit

report. This should be done at least once every year. Learn your credit score; the higher your score, the lower your interest rate. Then, clean it up!!

Dispute any errors or discrepancies and pay off any old debt. Next, SAVE! SAVE! SAVE! You don’t have to start big. One less pizza or burger per week will quickly start to add up.

This is just a brief overview of the first steps required to purchase your new home. If you would like more information, you may phone me at 417-8615025 or email kjones@caroljones.com.

Our next article will focus on the credit report and the importance of your credit score.

Heritage Awards continued from page 6

The 2012 Achievement Award went to Denny Whayne in honor of his outstanding commitment to improving the Springfield community.

Nominees for this award will be evaluated on these criteria: • Nominee serves as an inspiration to others through his or her persistent excellence in professional or business activities.

• Nominee has been recognized locally, regionally or statewide within the last 12 months for business success or community development activities.

• Demonstrated leadership and commitment to making our community a better place to live, work and raise children.

• Fundraising involvement for local causes or projects.

• Assistance to a local community project or organization that had a positive impact on individuals.

The Community Ser vice Award given in recognition of outstanding public service and/or significant charitable or philanthropic contributions that benefit the community.

The 2012 Community Service Award went to Joe Robles, owner of Joe Robles State Farm Agency.

Nominees for this award will be evaluated on these criteria: • Volunteer work or Board of Director service on behalf of local nonprofit and community improvement organizations.

• Work to reduce the barriers between the business sector, the volunteer sector and communitybased organizations.

• Demonstrated long-term concern for and involvement in enhancing the quality of life for children and their families in the greater Springfield area.

• Evidence of leadership and commitment to making our

community a better place to live, work and raise families.

The Advocacy Award, which recognizes an individual or organization that has educated the community or raised community awareness about a critical issue.

The 2012 Advocacy Award was given to Leslie Anderson, PhD, who served as Missouri State University’s first interim Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion.

Nominees will be evaluated on these criteria: • Local, regional or statewide recognition for contributions as an advocate for a specific cause or organization.

• Influence in social, political, economic or institutional arenas.

• A proven track record of understanding the important role of advocacy and community mobilization for advocacy.

• A history of lobbying for positive community change and recruiting others to assist in the cause.

• Demonstrated success in educating or raising community awareness about an issue.

Letters of nomination should be submitted by Dec. 31 to MIB President John Oke-Thomas by email to kayla@oke-thomas. com or by mail to Minorities in Business, P. O. Box 1368, Springfield, MO., 65801.

Subscribe To The Unite Publication Building Empowering Connections In Our Diverse Community Only $25. per year

Call: (417) 864-7444

African American Community Organizations Directory Mark A. Dixon Bartley-Decatur Neighborhood Center 918 E. Calhoun Springfield, MO 65802 417-719-4300 www.bartley-decatur.org Duke Winkfield American Legion Post Norvel Stafford 1339 E. Division St Springfield, MO 65803 417-862-9123 Alana Lyles, President Ladies Civic League Provides scholarships for youth P. O. Box 8296 Springfield, MO 65801 Robert Looney, Ozarks Golf Club, Inc Spfld. Community Center 618 N. Benton Springfield, MO 65806 Sidney Needem, Sec., Sherman Avenue Project Committee, Inc. Housing Org. 1228 N. Sherman Springfield, MO 65802 417-865-1203 W.M. Herman Burkett, Jr. Prince Hall Masons Truth Lodge #151 P.O. Box 8063 Springfield, MO 65801 417-890-5180 Wesley Pratt The Gathering A Community Action Group For more information call 417-987-7809 Shelia Burton, President Lincoln Memorial Cemetery Board, Inc. P.O. Box 9282 Springfield, MO 65801 417-877-0668

Lynette Adams, Worthy Matron Order Of Eastern Star Greater Truth Chapter #88 P.O. Box 9412 Springfield, MO 65801 417-866-6878 Calvin L. Allen, Exec. Director Springfield Community Center- Family Achievement Academy Corner of Sherman Ave/Division St Springfield, MO 65803 417-866-4359 Cheryl Clay, President Springfield Branch N.A.A.C.P. P.O. Box 8983 Springfield, MO 65801 Meetings are every third Saturday of the month from 1:30-2:30 p.m.

417-873-6386 Flora (Pat) Looney, President Our Night Out Social & Charitable Org. 417-866-2387 James Pike, President Springfield Reunion Club Organizes the Annual Park Day/ Reunion Weekend 1447 N. Hampton Springfield, MO 65802 417-869-0183 Meeting every first Monday Willie Carter, Director Victory Circle Peer Support Inc 2101 W. Chestnut Expwy Springfield, MO 65802 417-894-0188 Support group for men in recovery Samuel G. Knox Unite of SWMO, Inc. Publishes the Unite Publication; presenters of the Annual Springfield Multicultural Festival 2101 W. Chestnut Expwy.

Springfield, MO 65802 Phone: 417-864-7444 unitepublication@yahoo.com www.unitenewsonline.org

If you are a part of a Springfield African American Community Organization, we want to hear from you. Please send the name of your organization, address, phone number and a contact person to Unite., P. O. Box 1745, Springfield, MO 65801

December Unite Page 7

December Unite Page 6

A Directory of free or low cost Business Assistance Minorities In Business Monthly Networking Meeting 417.861-0760 Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce www.spfldchamber.com 417.862.5567 Small Business Administration (SBA) www.sba.gov 417.864.7670 Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) www.score.org 417.864.7670 Drury University - Breech Center / Student in Free Enterprise www.drury.edu 417.873.7243 Ozarks Technical Community College www.otc.edu 417.895.7158 The Library Center Business Reference thelibrary.springfield.missouri.org 417.874.8110

Small Business & Technology Development Center

sbtdc.missouristate.edu 417.836.5685 • Loan assistance • Financial analysis • Business planning • Marketing products • Trademark searches • Training seminars (business planning, business valuation, business management, finance, human resources, QuickBooks, marketing and international trade)

Business ResourceGuide MIB Calls For 2013 Heritage Awards Nominees

by Lola Butcher MIB Board Member Minorities in Business, a nonprofit organization that promotes economic development and business opportunities, has opened nominations for the 2013 MIB Heritage Awards, which recognize outstanding individuals and organizations for their achievements and contributions to our community.

“It is our great pleasure each year to recognize the valuable leaders that are working to promote and advocate for diversity in our business community,” said John Oke-Thomas, President of Minorities in Business. “We encourage everyone to consider how fortunate

we are to have good leadership profit small business with provand to take a few minutes to en success in the chosen field. nominate worthy individuals • Nominee must have been in and organizations so that they business for at least three years. may be publicly acknowledged.” • Nominee must maintain a The third annual awards pro- responsible and rewarding gram adds a new workplace envi...recognize category: Small ronment. outstanding individuals Business of the • Demonstrated and organizations for Year. This award leadership their achievements and is intended to recthrough commucontributions to our ognize a business nity volunteerism community. for its exemplary and contributions success. or in-kind services.

Nominations for awards in • Demonstrated customer satisthe following categories will be faction and engagement. accepted through Dec. 31, 2012.

The Achievement Award, Nominees for the Small honoring an individual for his or Business of the Year Award her leadership and commitment will be evaluated on these to making our community a criteria: better place to live and work. continued on page 7 • Business must be a viable for-

When Talking Real Estate: Be Informed

by Kim Jones Unite Contributing Writer

aspirations for obtaining your new home. A good place to start is where you bank. Local realty As the end of 2012 apcompanies are also an excellent proaches and a new resource for lender reyear is upon us, now ferrals. The key to beis the perfect time to ing informed is to ask examine the possibility questions. There are of owning your own many terms and forms home or perhaps the associated with the purchase of a smaller home buying process or larger home. of which the average Kim Jones Whether contemplatperson may have little ing your first purchase or no knowledge. Do not or simply a change in location, hesitate to ask for clarification if there are two steps that must any term or requirement is not initially be completed in order clearly understood. to achieve a successful transacBE PREPARED: The most tion: 1) Be informed, and 2) Be common obstacle to home ownprepared. ership is financing. The most BE INFORMED: Find a common obstacle to financing is local lender and discuss your bad credit. Review your credit

report. This should be done at least once every year. Learn your credit score; the higher your score, the lower your interest rate. Then, clean it up!!

Dispute any errors or discrepancies and pay off any old debt. Next, SAVE! SAVE! SAVE! You don’t have to start big. One less pizza or burger per week will quickly start to add up.

This is just a brief overview of the first steps required to purchase your new home. If you would like more information, you may phone me at 417-8615025 or email kjones@caroljones.com.

Our next article will focus on the credit report and the importance of your credit score.

Heritage Awards continued from page 6

The 2012 Achievement Award went to Denny Whayne in honor of his outstanding commitment to improving the Springfield community.

Nominees for this award will be evaluated on these criteria: • Nominee serves as an inspiration to others through his or her persistent excellence in professional or business activities.

• Nominee has been recognized locally, regionally or statewide within the last 12 months for business success or community development activities.

• Demonstrated leadership and commitment to making our community a better place to live, work and raise children.

• Fundraising involvement for local causes or projects.

• Assistance to a local community project or organization that had a positive impact on individuals.

The Community Ser vice Award given in recognition of outstanding public service and/or significant charitable or philanthropic contributions that benefit the community.

The 2012 Community Service Award went to Joe Robles, owner of Joe Robles State Farm Agency.

Nominees for this award will be evaluated on these criteria: • Volunteer work or Board of Director service on behalf of local nonprofit and community improvement organizations.

• Work to reduce the barriers between the business sector, the volunteer sector and communitybased organizations.

• Demonstrated long-term concern for and involvement in enhancing the quality of life for children and their families in the greater Springfield area.

• Evidence of leadership and commitment to making our

community a better place to live, work and raise families.

The Advocacy Award, which recognizes an individual or organization that has educated the community or raised community awareness about a critical issue.

The 2012 Advocacy Award was given to Leslie Anderson, PhD, who served as Missouri State University’s first interim Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion.

Nominees will be evaluated on these criteria: • Local, regional or statewide recognition for contributions as an advocate for a specific cause or organization.

• Influence in social, political, economic or institutional arenas.

• A proven track record of understanding the important role of advocacy and community mobilization for advocacy.

• A history of lobbying for positive community change and recruiting others to assist in the cause.

• Demonstrated success in educating or raising community awareness about an issue.

Letters of nomination should be submitted by Dec. 31 to MIB President John Oke-Thomas by email to kayla@oke-thomas. com or by mail to Minorities in Business, P. O. Box 1368, Springfield, MO., 65801.

Subscribe To The Unite Publication Building Empowering Connections In Our Diverse Community Only $25. per year

Call: (417) 864-7444

African American Community Organizations Directory Mark A. Dixon Bartley-Decatur Neighborhood Center 918 E. Calhoun Springfield, MO 65802 417-719-4300 www.bartley-decatur.org Duke Winkfield American Legion Post Norvel Stafford 1339 E. Division St Springfield, MO 65803 417-862-9123 Alana Lyles, President Ladies Civic League Provides scholarships for youth P. O. Box 8296 Springfield, MO 65801 Robert Looney, Ozarks Golf Club, Inc Spfld. Community Center 618 N. Benton Springfield, MO 65806 Sidney Needem, Sec., Sherman Avenue Project Committee, Inc. Housing Org. 1228 N. Sherman Springfield, MO 65802 417-865-1203 W.M. Herman Burkett, Jr. Prince Hall Masons Truth Lodge #151 P.O. Box 8063 Springfield, MO 65801 417-890-5180 Wesley Pratt The Gathering A Community Action Group For more information call 417-987-7809 Shelia Burton, President Lincoln Memorial Cemetery Board, Inc. P.O. Box 9282 Springfield, MO 65801 417-877-0668

Lynette Adams, Worthy Matron Order Of Eastern Star Greater Truth Chapter #88 P.O. Box 9412 Springfield, MO 65801 417-866-6878 Calvin L. Allen, Exec. Director Springfield Community Center- Family Achievement Academy Corner of Sherman Ave/Division St Springfield, MO 65803 417-866-4359 Cheryl Clay, President Springfield Branch N.A.A.C.P. P.O. Box 8983 Springfield, MO 65801 Meetings are every third Saturday of the month from 1:30-2:30 p.m.

417-873-6386 Flora (Pat) Looney, President Our Night Out Social & Charitable Org. 417-866-2387 James Pike, President Springfield Reunion Club Organizes the Annual Park Day/ Reunion Weekend 1447 N. Hampton Springfield, MO 65802 417-869-0183 Meeting every first Monday Willie Carter, Director Victory Circle Peer Support Inc 2101 W. Chestnut Expwy Springfield, MO 65802 417-894-0188 Support group for men in recovery Samuel G. Knox Unite of SWMO, Inc. Publishes the Unite Publication; presenters of the Annual Springfield Multicultural Festival 2101 W. Chestnut Expwy.

Springfield, MO 65802 Phone: 417-864-7444 unitepublication@yahoo.com www.unitenewsonline.org

If you are a part of a Springfield African American Community Organization, we want to hear from you. Please send the name of your organization, address, phone number and a contact person to Unite., P. O. Box 1745, Springfield, MO 65801

December Unite Page 8

December Unite Page 5

LifeStyle&EntertainmentNews Movie Review: James Bond - Skyfall 007

by Lyle Foster Unite Contributing Writer

features Mr. Daniel Craig as the infamous secret agent.

The film costs about 200 milJames Bond still entertains.... lion to make.....that is a lot of totally! Well if you have been on coin but don't feel bad for the the planer for a few years the studios they have brought in name James Bond about 800 million so far is not a new concept which seems like a nice to you as there have return on investment been a number of to me. The series has installments of the distinguished itself as highly successful franBritish filmmaking at its chise over the years best and the use of very and the latest one talented Brits has only does not disappoint. assisted the current film Lyle Foster In fact it delivers to be a heart pounding with gripping action actions packed and adventure as well as superb success. acting. Well yea it sounds like With its signature theme I am a fan. Truth be told many music that you instantly confolks like a good spy movie nect with (did you know that the every now and then and this music score has received sevfranchise is at the top of its eral nominations for its music game. themes...not won too many The current film Skyfall is though) and they usual array of the 23rd film in the Bond series super cool gadgets and amazing having begun with the 1963 Dr. cars Skyfall brings out all the No. Does anybody remember stops. that one? Wow that sounds like The music does deserve a a long time ago....well it was 50 little bit more mention as theme years ago and the franchise has songs have been belted by Ray been off and running ever since Charles and Tina Turner in with the first films being played the past. Skyfall features none

by Sean Connery. other than the British megastar The current installment Adele and many are raving

about her music already and the songs are already a hit.

One of the things I like about the current installment is you get a little bit more of the history of James Bond himself, his relationship to M and some more insight into the M16 organization.

The basic plot is the movie is that a computer drive has been lost and it contains a list of British agents. Mr. Bond has the assignment to recover that drive. In an early action scene which is © 2012 MGM quite spectacular because it occurs on top of a moving train. And I am not giving out too much as it is in all of the previews. In a decision made by M herself James Bond ends up dead....or at least all signs point to that. The situation for M16 and its headquarters continues to become even more serious as a number of

agents are lost in several different ways....enough so that the very injured Mr. Bond has to return. Now I didn't give that away because we all know we can't have Skyfall if Mr. Bond is dead.

What ensues upon his return is action packed with enough of a plot to keep you engaged and for me there were a few times I was on the edge of my seat and once I was even punching my arms at an imaginary villain. Once I realized people were staring at me and I was making a spectacle of myself I returned to eating my popcorn and regained my composure.

True story. The villain played

by James Bardem is insane but in that crazy way that leaves the plot full of surprises and we learn that he has it our for continued on page 9

Food Review: Favorite Spots In Town

by Lyle Foster Unite Contributing Writer Favorite Eating Spots in Town!!!

Sometimes at the end of the year I like to reminisce a little bit and think what were the dining experiences that really stood our for me or for people that I talked with throughout the year.

The truth is we live in a town that loves to eat out even though

it tends to be in a certain price point we have a lot of restaurants for a town our size.

Now I usually don't like to get in the chains too much and the fast food category but the opening of Popeye's on Glenstone has created quite a stir in town and it is wildly popular. Of course what is there to not like about Popeyes especially those biscuits and honey. The custom-

er service there has been really good and I think this installment of Popeye's in Springfield is going to be a lasting one. I hear from some peeps that they find their cars going through the drive-in there several times a week. Well you know about Popeye's and that spicy fried chicken but every now and then.....well you know!!!

There are some fans eagerly

awaiting the opening of Five Guys Burgers and Fries which is slated to open by the end of November just in time for the shopping season. One is at the Town and Country shopping center on No. Kansas Expressway and the other one is at Battlefield Mall. There is a built-in audience for the popular burger place as many local folks have continued on page 9

Gwen Marshall

The Library

continued from page 4

continued from page 3

kids to creatively master challenges and reach their highest potential.

The parent-child relationship, like teacher-student relationship, is called a “core relation.”

Students generally can survive any obstacle if core relationships are in place.

How are the children? The answer lies with the village.

Can the village come together to build resilient young people, who are able to overcome the unbelievable stress they face today. The answer is, yes. So, to every adult I say, “Be the village.” Let’s reach and teach by getting involved in the lives or our young people. Let’s give them the support and security they need. “Together, we can!”

pass and a photo ID at the Discovery Center.

Details about the passes are available in each library.

••• The new “Lincoln” movie has generated renewed interest in the president and the Emancipation Proclamation, which turns 150 years old on Jan. 1, 2013.

Just in time, the Library will feature a Lincoln actor during a series of lectures, exhibits and theater Jan. 8-13 at the Library Center and other sites to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the 1863 Battle of Springfield, Marmaduke’s Raid and the Emancipation Proclamation.

Lincoln scholar Fritz Klein will portray, in costume, Abraham Lincoln in a dramatic performance at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 9, in the Librar y Center auditorium. Klein will give Lincoln’s presidential and personal perspective on slavery, emancipation and the difficulties in Missouri. A town hall-style forum for questions will follow. The event is free and open to the public.

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

GMET Church Presents Gospel Purpose 2012: “Revival In Song”, December 6, 7 & 8 Springfield, MO—A revival in song, Gospel Purpose 2012 is scheduled at Greater Metropolitan Church, 1400 N. West Ave. December 6-8, 2012 nightly at 7:00 p.m. Each night will be hosted by Quinci Williams, from Deliverance Temple, with special word from Bishop Lester Woods, Jr, Urban Empowerment, Columbia, MO. Guest include, E.P.I.C.; Timmons TempleCOGIC; Urban Empowerment; Christian Tabernacle; Acts of Praise Whole Life Ministry; Pocketful of Harmonics; Aleisha Gilliam and many more!!!

For more information call Moniqua Bell (417) 619-5305 email: gmet.music@gmail.com

Subscribe To The Unite Publication Building Empowering Connections In Our Diverse Community

Distinctive Mission, Remarkable Education Affordable Choice, Unbeatable Value Memorable Experiences, Lifetime Success

Missouri State University is currently recruiting diverse staff and faculty to add to the growing University system.

www.missouristate.edu/jobs Vacancy recording: 417-836-4683

Successful candidates must be committed to working with diverse student and community populations.

Only $25. per year

Call: (417) 864-7444

Employment will require a criminal background check at University expense.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Institution

December Unite Page 9

December Unite Page 4

CommunitySection

Movie Review

continued from page 8

The State of the Children: 2012 and Beyond Gwendolyn Marshall Office of Cultural Diversity, SPS

ing to Marian Wright Edelman, president of the Children’s Defense Fund, “ there are 16.4 million poor children in There is a familiar rich America, 7.4 milAfrican proverb that lion living in extreme states “it takes a village poverty. A majority of to raise a child.” public school students The Maasai people and more than three of Kenya greet each out of four Black and other with the quesHispanic children (who tion, “How are the will be a majority of Gwen Marshall children?” our child population by I would like to greet our 2019) are unable to read or comreading audience this month pute at grade level in the fourth with that same question, “How or eighth grade. This means are the children?” they will likely be unprepared Here are some numbers that to succeed in our increasingly tell part of the answer. Accordcompetitive global economy.

Flu Season is Here

Nobody wants the flu.

Minority H

ni or

S er v

ices

h

ar

of

lt ea

ep iD Missour

Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services

Offi ce

Don’t let a high fever, sore throat, runny nose and body aches keep you from the activities you love. Get protected all season long.

Contact your doctor or visit mo.gov to find a clinic near you.

e tm &S ent o f Health

Office of Minority Health 800.877.3180

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER Services provided on a nondiscriminatory basis.

Nearly eight million children are uninsured. More children were killed by guns in 2008-2009 than U.S. military personnel in both the Iraq and Afghanistan wars to date. A Black boy born in 2001 has a one in three chance of going to prison in his lifetime; a Latino boy a one in six chance of the same fate.”

“Millions of children are living hopeless, poverty- and violence-stricken lives in the war zones of our cities; in the educational deserts of our rural areas; in the moral deserts of our corrosive culture that saturates them with violent, materialistic, and individualistic messages; and in the leadership deserts of our political and economic life where greed and self interest trump the common good over and over. Millions of our children are being left behind without the most basic human supports they need to survive and thrive when parents alone cannot provide for them at a time of deep economic downturn, joblessness, and low wage jobs that place a ceiling on economic mobility for millions as America’s dream dims.”

The Children’s Defense Fund has just released The State of America’s Children® 2012 Handbook. This report is a portrait of where our children are right now and a tool to spur us to set the vision of where we need to go to stop the downward mobility of our children and grandchildren and the shrinking of America’s future.

Families, schools, and communities can help change these looming numbers by preparing children and teens to THRIVE

through both good and challenging times. Building Resilience in Children and Teens, written

by Dr. Kenneth Ginsburg, offers strategies to help kids from 18 months to 18 years build seven crucial “Cs” — competence, confidence, connection, character, contribution, coping, and control — so they can excel in life and bounce back from challenges. As parents and educators, our desire is to raise authentically successful children who will be happy, hardworking, compassionate, creative, and innovative. It’s about more than immediate smiles and perfect grades; it’s about raising kids to be emotionally and socially intelligent, to be able to recover from disappointment and forge ahead throughout their lives.

The stable connection between caring adults and children is the key to the security that allows continued on page 5 Important Dates To Remember December 20, 2012 End of Second Quarter December 20, 2012 End of First Semester December 21, 2012 Professional Learning /Work Day (Students Out All Day) December 24-31, 2012 Winter Vacation January 1, 2013 Winter Vacation Continues January 2, 2013 Classes Resume ACT Test Dates February 9, 2013 Registration Deadline January 11, 2013

that he has it out for M. James Bardem is being touted for his exceptional performance and I have to admit the man plays the part to the max.

No James Bond movie is incomplete without the beautiful accomplice in crime and this time there is no exception with Naomie Harris playing Eve another M16 agent who helps Bond get out of a few tight situations. She is stunning and turns in a great job as well. I am not trying to throw out all these props; the film is good and well acted.

I also enjoyed the filming which shows some great parts of London and filming in Turkey and it is beautiful.

Judi Dench plays M for the sixth time and as mentioned earlier we get some more insight into her background with Bond and we also get to see some of

Food Review

continued from page 8 already eaten it in other cities.

I was introduced to the chain by my daughter who basically said "You have to try my favorite hamburger place in town"...

I will say more about it once I have gone to the local ones. But if you haven't gone before you may want to make a mental note to check it out when you can.

Another place that is already opened is the Hibachi Grill and Buffet at 1950 E. Kearny. This is in the former location of Ryan's which I know that many of you frequently visited. I am not going to lie, I am not a big buffet fan due to some bad experiences that I am not going into in this column so my opinions are biased. But if you are a buffet fan and like a lot of food for a reasonable price you may want to give this location a chance.

the tension between the official government and the British spy operations.

In one scene M makes some pretty interesting statements about who our enemies really are in the terrorist world we live in now.

There is a lot to do for the holidays and the trifecta of the the Twilight series new installment, Skyfall and Lincoln has resulted in a record weekend for movie sales in the country.

But if you get tired of shopping in the store or online take a break and see Skyfall. But if you have time for two movies you must also see Lincoln which is the next review....it is riveting and some incredible acting!

Both of these movies are well over 2 hours in length so you definitely feel like you get your money's worth and that is a good thing! Skyfall is rated PG13 for primariy violence....there is some sexuality but nothing over the top.

Skyfall.......95 out of 100 They also have sushi if you are a fan and the cashew chicken receives really strong reviews. The service has been criticized but I would give a word of caution on that....when you are going to a buffet you need to adjust your expectations and not expect to be waited on hand and foot like you may reasonably expect at a fine dining establishment.

Recently a new joint has opened on the far south side on El Camino Drive none other than Freddys' Steakburgers and frozen custard. This place is popular and has a lot of devoted followers...it is definitely in the casual eating category and is a great family place to take the kids. While I am writing this the idea of frozen custard seems a bit remote but winter will be over and all of us custard lovers will soon be in line for their great product.

A place that I reviewed earlier

this year and has been a great get away for me is Rebecca Grill and the Olive Juice Lounge on Walnut in center city. I like the location because it i convenient and I am crazy about their chicken corn chowder soup. I have gone to the brunch as well and the omlets are good and worth checking out on a Saturday or Sunday. I referred some friends and they seemed to have had a different experience based on their satisfaction with how their meat was cooked. I followed up as I was disappointed and concerned since I recommended them and was told they ordered their meat prepared differently... maybe it was a communication gap I don't know. But I have enjoyed this new addition to the downtown scene especially since it is local and it keeps downtown vibrant. I never see a big crowd in there which makes me a bit nervous because I hope they

make it!!!

One of the things that I know is true for most of us is that we have our favorite places and tend to go there when the eating out bug strikes but my hope is that through reading this column and noticing the new places sprouting up and old places getting new uses we will strike out and find some new places to eat and ultimately make them a favorite? My other little getaway spot in 2012 was the northside location of Houlihan's because it usually wasn't crowded and the atmosphere is really inviting and very comfortable. I would get almost the same thing....the baked potato soup and burger and sometimes the salmon instead.

Did you have a favorite getaway place?...I would love to know what it was....please tell me about it so I can check it out as well!

City of Springfield project bids Open for business – Open to all The City of Springfield Division of Purchases welcomes all contractors and vendors to participate in the City’s bid opportunities for providing needed supplies, equipment, and services to the City. Information and notification about bidding is open to all, and there is never a charge.

To view or download all current documents for bidding opportunities with the Division of Purchases, please go to our website at: Springfieldmo.gov/purchasing, and click on ‘Bid Processing Center.’

Contractors, consultants and other types of vendors may also sign up to receive notifications of the City’s future bid opportunities based on the type of services they provide. This service can be found by clicking on ‘Bid Notification Service’ on the Purchasing website. There is a fee (for use of a third party notification service).

The City’s Department of Public Works also uses the City website to let contractors know about upcoming construction projects. Go to Springfieldmo.gov/departments/publicworks and look for the ‘Notices To Contractors’ box. The links will direct you to a virtual plans room for more information on projects.

December Unite Page 3

December Unite Page 10

A Directory of local and regional health resources AIDS Federal hotline; 24 hours a day, everyday, including holidays.

1-800-590-AIDS (2437) Local office: 417-881-1900 Alzheimer’s Disease 1-800-272-3900 Alzheimer's Dementia Workshop Lynette Adams Springfield, MO Any size class available 417-866-6878 American Stroke Association Learn more about strokes by calling 1-888-4-STROKE Cancer Resource Network 1-800-227-2345 Diabetes Hotline Division of Cox Medical Center North 417-269-3737 Medicare Information Medicare Information Hotline 1-800-494-7355 Mental Health Crisis Hotline Counseling needs & crisis intervention 1-800-494-7355 National Parkinson Foundation Education, announcements, links to related sites 1-800-327-4545 www.parkinson.org OTC Dental Hygiene Clinic Provides low cost dental care for adults and children; performed by students under the supervision of faculty and local dentists.

Cleanings, X-rays and exams For adults $50. for children $35.

Call 417-447-8835 to make appt.

DHSS/ Office Of Minority Health The mission is to eliminate health disparities through assertive leadership, advocacy support, and visible interaction with minority communities in Missouri.

Call: 1-800-877-3180

IN THIS ISSUE

Health & Mental Fitness Exercise improves doctor-patient communication

By Genevra Pittman NEW YORK (Reuters Health) A short waiting room exercise encouraging African American patients to reflect on their personal values helped improve communication between the patients and their white doctors, in a new study.

However, those patients didn't rate their trust in their doctor or satisfaction with the appointment any higher, compared to those who didn't do the "values affirmation" exercise.

Patients and doctors interact differently when they are of different races, compared to when both are white or both are African American, research has shown. Some of that could be due to doctors' own unconscious racial or ethnic biases.

"Those issues play themselves out in subtle ways in how medical care gets delivered," said Dr. Edward Havranek, the study's lead researcher from the Denver Health Medical Center.

But so-called cultural competence training programs for doctors haven't been shown to improve interracial doctor-patient relationships.

Another theory is that minority patients fear they'll be judged by stereotypes - and their stress from that fear impedes communication with their doctor, whether or not the doctor is really biased.

"If black patients believe that the doctor's going to stereotype them because of their race, they may not behave to their full potential during the visit," said Dr. Howard Gordon, from the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center in Chicago and the University of

Illinois at Chicago.

Havranek told Reuters Health.

"They may feel inhibited; The researchers said it's possible the positive effects they did they may not ask questions during the visit." see on patient-doctor interaction By helping minority patients would be enough to encourage African Americans to stick to focus on their own positive their blood pressure drugs more qualities and values, researchclosely. But they weren't able ers believe, those patients might not be as preoccupied with the to measure that outcome in the possibility of being treated difcurrent study, published Monday in the Archives of Internal ferently.

Medicine.

Havranek's study involved 99 Patients asking more quesAfrican American patients with tions "is good, but that's all high blood pressure who had an they showed. They didn't show appointment with their non-Afthat their blood rican American primary care ... issues play them- pressure's better doctor. selves out in subtle ways controlled. They About half in how medical care didn't show that they're less likely of the patients gets delivered... to have a stroke, were given a questionnaire in the hour before or kidney disease or heart their appointment asking them attack," Gordon, who studies to reflect on their personal valracial disparities and patient-docues and think about times when tor communication but wasn't those values were important. involved in the new research, Audio recordings of the visits told Reuters Health. showed that after filling out "Theoretically if someone those surveys, African Ameriasks more questions, then they can patients requested - and know more, and that will make were provided with - a bit more them more likely to stick to their information about their medical doctor's (recommendations) condition. Conversations with and take their medications. And their doctors also tended to be if they take their medications, more positive and friendly. their blood pressure will be betBut there was no difference ter controlled," he said. "But this in how often doctors dominated study didn't show that yet." the conversations and no more The "values affirmation" discussion about patients' treatintervention might have more ment or lifestyle issues after the of an effect on minority patients exercise. before they visit new specialists On post-visit patient surveys, they don't already know, accordthere was no change in their ing to Havranek. stress, satisfaction or trust But Gordon said how well in their doctor, compared to it would work in real-life waitpatients who weren't given the ing rooms, where a lot of other personal value questionnaires. things are going on and there "It clearly wasn't a home are other forms to be filled out, run. It didn't have the major effects that we had hoped for," is still an open question.

Community News

You Can Check Out A Free Family Pass To Visit Discovery Center

by Kathleen O’Dell , Springfield-Greene County Library District Everyone knows you can check out books at the Library, but did you know you can also check out a free family pass for four to visit the Discovery Center of Springfield?

You can! And the holidays would be a great time to visit.

Families can check out a free, seven-day pass with a valid library card at any of the 10 library branches.

The family passes were purchased with part of a grant from the Missouri Parent Information Resource Center, U.S. Department of Education, Office of Improvement and Innovation. The goal is to help parents provide quality educational experiences for their children.

The Librar y has 20 reusable Discover y Center family passes that are placed in the branches for checkout.

How it works: Each pass admits up to four people – at least one adult and no more than three children age 3 and older. The passes are for general admission only and cannot apply to special events or member discounts.

Using a valid library card, a family can check out a pass and use it for unlimited visits for seven days. The pass expires after seven days.

Patrons may check out one pass at a time. Passes are not renewable and cannot be put on “hold.” Lost passes cannot be replaced. Patrons must present the continued on page 5

4

The State of the Children: 2012 and Beyond

by Gwen Marshall

Business Resource Guide

6

Calls For 2013 Heritage Awards Nominees

by MIB, Lola Butcher

Lifestyle & Entertainment News

8

Food & Movie Review

UNITE.

Volume 22, Number 12 Publisher Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc. Managing Editor Samuel G. Knox Contributing Writers Lyle Foster Mia Jackson-Huskisson Kim Jones Gwen Marshall Kathleen O'Dell Photography David Huskisson Dr. David N Knox

by Lyle Foster

Health & Mental Fitness

10

Distribution Bradley Knox

Exercise improves doctor-patient communication

Volunteers Tyra Knox Kerri McGrew Angelor Wilkes

by Genevra Pittman

The Unite. publication is a

Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home, Inc. The quality and care that you expect in 242 years of combined experience

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City Employment Link The City of Springfield offers a variety of municipal career opportunities for individuals interested in public service.

Job opportunities are updated each Friday and can be accessed through a number of mediums: Web: http://www. springfieldmo.gov/jobs; or Phone: Jobs Hotline at 417-8641606; or TV: CityView on Medicacom Cable Digital Channel 80; or In Person: visiting our offices at 840 Boonville, Room 324, Springfield, MO 65802.

The City is fully committed to a policy of hiring without regard to age, sex, race, religion, national origin, or disability. The City is an equal opportunity/ affirmative action employer.

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Readers comments and ques-

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December Unite Page 11

December Unite Page 2

Kelby Stuckey

continued from page 1 didn't know how to go about doing it. The thing about minority kids is we don't see ourselves as attorneys, we see ourselves as so many things, but rarely do we say, ‘Hey I'd like to be that,’ because we don't have a lot of minority attorneys as role models especially in the inner city.

An attorney is someone from a big building a lot different from yours, who looks a lot different from you, whose background is a lot different from yours, and you just kind of see that as something that is not attainable,” he said.

“Hopefully, taking the path that I've taken I will be able to effect the lives of others, not only minorities, but it's impor-

tant for them to know that I come from a similar background and if I am able to do it they can do it,” Stuckey said.

To become a lawyer, Stuckey attended St. Louis University School of Law. He received his Juris Doctorate in 2009.

“I came to clerk with Lathrop & Gage LLP until I passed the bar. I was with them for about 15 months,” Stuckey said.

Stuckey became an assistant city attorney for the City of Springfield in February 2012.

Stuckey describes his work as, “Good, very good. There is a sense of doing good work, helping people with the situations in their lives. Sometimes it is being able to show them the tough circumstances which they face and how they can change, especially with the young people. You feel

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UJAMAA Cooperative Economics

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Parking available in the Springfield Cardinal lot or the Springfield Creamery Art Center Lot

like you provide a public sertant. He finds opportunities in vice.” the vast number of issues and He wants people to think departments that make up city about the consequences of their government along with legal actions and stop risky behaviors. issues surrounding municipal “Hopefully people will think functions. twice before Professionthey make ally, Stuckey those decisions wants to beagain after come the best being involved attorney posin the courts. sible; perhaps a From speeding judge someday. to DWI to oth“My ultimate er ordinance personal goal violations-is to be a good some people father, raise my do these things children to be and it just goes respectful and right over value educatheir heads tion, to value Attorney Kelby Stuckey that there is a the feelings and residual effect,” Stuckey said. perspectives of others different On a typical day, his job infrom them,” he said. cludes going to court representStuckey mentors young ing the City. people and serves on boards “The good thing about our like that of the Big Brothers Big country is you have the right Sisters of the Ozarks. to be heard and I think that's Basketball remains impora very important aspect of our tant. He coaches children’s society. We get the opportunity teams and works with Ned Reynto let people air those concerns olds in providing commentary and to a degree we get to exon men’s college games. plain to them why it is important “It's important for young that they get to do so,” Stuckey people to know you don't have said. to be the biggest or most talHe also does case preparaented player, if you are willing to tions, analyzes complaints or dedicate yourself and work hard tickets, prepares plea agreeat it, you can be good not only ments, and prepares for jury in sports but anything,” Stuckey trials. said.

Continuing to grow, gain His advice is: “Focus, work experiences and develop as a hard, blaze a trail--don't follow a municipal attorney is imporpath.”

NAACP Election continued from page 1

• David Knox, 2nd Vice President • Susan Marshall, Secretary, re-elected • Francine Pratt, Treasurer, re-elected Board member at large:

• Carolyn Hembree, re-elected • Lola Butcher • Robert King • TaJuan Wilson, re-elected • Tim Ferguson All officers and board members at large will be installed at Q' Enoteca 318 W. Commercial; December 7, 2012, at 7:00 p.m.

Thinking Of Our Middle Aged And Elderly Family Members Services would have a field day with them and their goose grease, and asperity bags for colds. I don't I pray a lot for my mother, and know if the spellings right but they my Grandmother who is now 91 smelled so bad and you had to years in age. Like my mother I wear it around your neck. Believe have become a praying mother, me, a lot of children didn't get I thought about all the sick cause they knew. I things I was taught as remember once getting a child. Like fishing, stung by a bee on my digging for worms, how hand. Granny use to to find night crawlers opchew, so she took some pose to small worms —usout of her mouth and ing dough bait if you had put it on the sting. I was no worms. We learned thinking, gross, but it quilting, sewing, crochet, worked. knitting; we learned how I'm saying all this to Tonja Osborne to plant gardens, how to say, I look at the young preserve food. We learned what people today who seem very differplants, berries, poke greens, and ent. They show little or no interest in these things. I also look at how which trees bare fruit. We learned God's lovely planet and think, that about things you could eat from he made all of this for us. the land and survive. A lot of you Animals, insects, trees, birds, know what I'm talking about. lots of these things have become Texas Street was full of peach trees, pear trees, crab apples, extinct. You have to ask yourself, blackberry bushes, grapes, and when Christ comes again to judge Honey suckle flowers that if you us, are we ready? Have our chilate the tip you could taste honey. dren been equipped to survive Elderly people could feed a from the land if they had to while multitude of people with small we wait. portions. Back then, they had large Mother always used to say if families. They taught young ladies you don't know better you won't how to dress in a modest manner, do better. We should honor our which would require men to show elders, they should never be respect to you. They taught how disregarded or disrespected. We important marriage is, so your chilshould be learning all we can from dren could carry on the last names them — taking the time to sit down of their fathers, it is also Biblical. and listen to those old stories they It was also romantic to see a have. They are special to us and nervous young man on one knee have everything to do with our asking for your hand in marriage, existence. Many have died to make a way for us. We must never forget. after he ask your father first. For I know some of the younger minme, I remember when you could isters are trying to reach young go to about anyone's house and adults and that's wonderful. they had food prepared. Even You cannot let that take you people you didn't know, knew they away from where you come from, could get something to eat. God and how many people died, cried, had to be blessing these people and prayed for you to be in the because they never ran out of food. position you are in now. God Bless After church you were always You. going some were to eat. Something For info:queentosborne-1110@ else I remember are old remedies. yahoo /gmet.ps@gmaii.com I told my mother one day Child

Kevin “Elmo” Clash Resigns From “Sesame Street” the subject of the 2011 documentary "Being Elmo: A Puppeteer's Journey."

By Tonja Osborne Letter to the Editor

Kevin Clash and Elmo

Blacknews.com —Kevin Clash, the famous voice and puppeteer behind Elmo for the last 28 years, has officially resigned from Sesame Street in the wake of allegations that he had sex with at least two under-aged minors. The first accuser recanted his allegations, but now a second accuser has already filed a lawsuit in New York seeking $5 million in damages, alleging that at age 15, he was persuaded by Clash to meet for sexual encounters.

Sesame Workshop, the organization behind the show, released a statement, saying "the controversy surrounding Kevin's personal life has become a distraction that none of us want... he can no longer be effective in his job, [and] this is a sad day for Sesame Street."

Clash was more than just "Elmo" to Sesame Street; He was also the show's senior Muppet coordinator and Muppet captain. For his work, he has won 23 daytime Emmy awards and one prime-time Emmy. He also published a bestselling autobiography, "My Life as a Furry Red Monster," and was

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December Unite Page 12

December 2012 Volume 22/ Number 12 • A Monthly Publication by Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc •

www.unitenewsonline.org

UNITE.

Have A Merry Christmas From The Unite Staff December 25, 2012

Building Empowering Connections In Our Diverse Community

Springfield, MO—The Ladies' Civic League invites the community to come with your family for fun and feast as they celebrate the principles of Kwanzaa. The event is scheduled for Sunday, December 30, 2012 at the Springfield Creamery Art Center 411 N. Sherman Ave., 6:00 p.m.

New Officers Were Elected For The Springfield Branch NAACP Springfield, MO—The Springfield NAACP held their branch election, November 17, 2012. The officers and board members at large will assume their new positions January 2013. The election results are as follows: Officers: • Cheryl Clay, President reelected •Wes Pratt, 1st Vice President Continued on page 2

MIB Calls For 2013 Heritage Awards Nominees See Story On Page 6

Obama Wins 2012 Re-Election Promises “Better Days Ahead”

Associated Press—President Obama made history again by beating former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney in the 2012 U.S. presidential election, despite a weak economy that has plagued Americans for the last few years. During his victory speech to a crowd in Chicago, he confidently promised that there are "better days ahead".

Obama captured Ohio, Wisconsin, Iowa, Virginia, New Hampshire, Colorado and Nevada, seven of the nine states where the rivals and their allies poured nearly $1 billion into dueling television commercials.

Attorney Kelby Stuckey Stands Tall

by Vera Jane Goodin Schultz Unite Contributing Writer

for people who are willing to sacrifice and work hard. We preach that in the From basketball United States, but it is court to courtthe absolute truth and room, Kelby I think I'm the living Stuckey stands proof.” tall and strives Originally from the hard. west inner city of St. He believes the Louis, Stuckey travKelby Stuckey U.S., “truly is the eled far world-wise land of opportunity and and career-wise, seizing truly does provide opportunity the opportunities to experience Photo by Vera Jane Goodin Schultz

Celebrate Kwanzaa At The Creamery December 30, 2012

two dream jobs: professional basketball player and attorney.

The Missouri State University Sports Hall of Fame Inductee played basketball for Missouri State University from 1985 until 1989 when he graduated. Then he played professionally mostly in Europe. After 14 years, he retired to pursue his other dream.

“Ever since I was a kid I wanted to be an attorney. I Continued on page 2