Unite News - Feb 2013

February Unite Page 12

Mother Teresa or... continued from page 10

contribute to poor health by increasing personal stress, which takes its toll on the body.

Although the power to change others is typically out of reach, we can always seek change for ourselves. If things aren't going well with relationships at work and/or at home, make sure the saintly person you thought you were is not being experienced more like an ancient barbarian by others.

Business Loans continued from page 6

or a guiding hand that can help you through the application process, don’t feel that you have to

go it alone. Local Small Business Development Centers, Women’s Business Centers, and SCORE (a mentoring organization for small businesses) can help you through the process. Find one of these groups in your community.

ROAD WORK NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS Bids will be received by the Commission until 11:00 o'clock a.m. (prevailing local time) on 2/22/2013 for the project(s) listed below.

Electronic bids must be submitted through the BidExpress website. Paper bids, not exceeding a monetary value of $250,000, shall be addressed to and received by: Secretary to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission Attention: Bid/Bid Bond 105 West Capitol Avenue Jefferson City, Missouri The proposed work includes: Job J8P2236, Route 744, Greene County: ADA & signal improvements from Route 13

to Glenstone Ave. in Springfield, the total length of the improvement being 2.65 miles.

Job J8P2280B, Business Loop 44, Greene County: ADA Improvements from Evergreen St. to St. Louis St. in Springfield, the total length of the improvement being 2.53 miles.

Job J8P3008B, Route 60, Greene County: ADA improvements from Route P to Hines St. in Republic, the total length of the improvement being 1.32 miles. Combination bids will be Required on the Jobs listed Special Needs: If you have special needs addressed by the Americans with Disabilities Act, please notify Pamela Harlan, Secretary to the Commission, at (573) 751-2824 or through Missouri Relay System, TDD 1-800735-2966.

The wage rates applicable to this project have been predetermined as required by law and are set forth in the Bidding documents.

When federal wage rates are applicable and included, this contract is subject to the "Work Hours Act of 1962," (P.L. 87-581, 76 State.

357) and implementing regulations.

By virtue of statutory authority, preference shall be given on other than Federal Aid Projects, to materials, products, supplies, provisions, and other articles, produced, manufactured, made or grown within the state of Missouri, where same are of a suit-

able character and can be obtained at reasonable market prices in the state and are of a quality suited to the purpose intended and can be secured without additional cost over foreign products or products of other states.

The Commission hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively insure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, minority business enterprises will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, ancestry, or national origin in consideration for an award.

Plans and specifications may be inspected in the offices of the Commission at Jefferson City, or the District Office at Springfield, Missouri. Plans may also be viewed on the Internet at http://modot.indoxservices.com/.

Complete instructions to bidders may be obtained at the Jefferson City office. All questions concerning the bid document preparation shall be directed to the Central Office – Design Division at (573) 751-2876.

Bids must be on forms provided at http:// modot.indoxservices.com/.

The right is reserved to reject any or all bids. THE MISSOURI HIGHWAYS AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION Chief Engineer

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February 2013 Volume 23/ Number 2 • A Monthly Publication by Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc •

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Building Empowering Connections In Our Diverse Community

Historical Struggle, Sacrifices, and Victories President Obama Takes Oath in White House Ceremony For 2nd Term See story on page 2

Minorities in Business Announces Third Annual Heritage Awards See details on page 5

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Celebrate Black History Month by attending local events!

New CD Release from national recording artist Brenda McClintock See details on page 2

by Mia Jackson Huskisson Unite Contributing Writer February is Black History Month and a great time to reflect on the historical struggle, sacrifices, and victories of the pioneers who have gone before us. This month is a great time to commemorate the extraordinary contributions made by African Americans.

You might ask why we should celebrate Black History Month? We celebrate Black History Month because it offers a special time to remember and take pride in our heritage.

This is a time to remember who

we are as a people, where we embraced our history we must have come from, and how caembrace it. Secondly, we must pable we are of so much more. educate the next generation.

Marcus Garvey said, “A Finally, we must be inspired by people without what has proven knowledge of to be possible.

We celebrate Black their past history, For within us, lies History Month because origin, and culthe tenacity of it offers a special time to Rosa Parks, the ture is like a tree remember and take pride passion of Martin without roots.” in our heritage.

The obserLuther King, and vance of Black the ingenious History Month ability of George began in 1926 by historical Washington Carver. educator Carter G. Woodson.

February is a great time Black History Month has been to explore some of Missouri’s observed in the United States historical sites that offer a wide since 1976. range of Black History archives Although society has not Continued on page 2

“Cultivating Your Dreams: Celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Dream” SPRINGFIELD, MO.—“Cultivating Your Dreams: Celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Dream” will be presented as part of the 24th National African American Read-In (AARI) in Springfield. The program will take place at the Library Station, 2535 North Kansas Expressway, on Monday, February 25, at 7:00 pm.

Mark Dixon will recite Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s acclaimed “I have a dream”

speech. Area singers will perform a selection of Negro spirituals. Several young people will speak briefly about how they are achieving their dreams.

Some of the speakers include KSPR-33 reporter Sheena Elzie and NAACP Martin Luther King contest essay writers.

The national AARI coincides with Black History Month and is sponsored by the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English (http://

www.ncte.org/action/aari).

The Springfield event is free and open to the public. Free parking is available and refreshments will be served.

“The city-wide celebration of the AARI in Springfield has been taking place each February since 2010 with a variety of programs celebrating AfricanAmerican literature, art, and music,” said Dr. Grace JacksonBrown, Missouri State Continued on page 2

February Unite Page 11

February Unite Page 2

Historial Struggle continued from page 1

and museums. Here are a few sites within driving distance: Springfield: The History Museum for Springfield offers an exhibit and archives of Black History in Springfield, MO. You may find more information at: www. springfieldhistorymuseum.org or by phone at (417) 864-1976.

Ash Grove: Ozarks Afro American Heritage Museum offers a displays of historical quilts and artifacts contributed by African Americans. The collection includes furniture made by slaves. You may find more information at : www. oaahm.org or by phone at (417) 880-1378.

Diamond: George Washington Carver Na-

tional Monument has preserved Carver’s childhood home. The site offers an education about Carver and his many contributions. You may find more information at: www.nps.gov/ gwca/index.htm or by phone at (417) 325-4151.

St. Louis: Old Courthouse is the site of many slaves’ lawsuits to obtain freedom including the famous Dred Scott trials that were appealed all the way to the Supreme Court. You may find more information at: www.nps. gov/jeff/index.htm or by phone at (314) 655-1700.

Scott Joplin Historic Site is an exhibit of Joplin’s life and time in St. Louis. Joplin later received national recoginition for his music. You may find more information at : http://mostatepark.com/park/scott-joplin or by phone at (314) 340-5790.

Kansas City: The Negro League Baseball Museum chronicles the history of African – American baseball.

You may find more information at : www.nlbm.com or by phone at (816) 221-1920.

American Jazz Museum offers exhibits that honor the art of jazz while educating about its legacy within African American culture.

You may find more information at : www.americanjazzmuseum.com or by phone at (816) 474-8463.

President Obama Takes Oath in White House Ceremony For Second Term President Barack Obama has now officially begun his second term as president. He, with his

Central High School Alumni Night February 12, 2013

The Central High School Boys Basketball Booster Club invites all former and current Central students to attend its annual Alumni Night celebration February 12, 2013.

All are encouraged to come out and cheer for the Bulldogs as they take the court against Nevada at the James Ball Gymnasium, also referred to as “The Pitt”. The Junior Varsity will tip off at 6:00 p.m. followed by the Varsity at approximately 7:30.

All alumni and former “Ballers” will be recognized.

A reception will follow the varsity game.

For more information, please contact Jeffrey Hardin at (913) 636-2397.

family, was sworn in on Sunday

by Chief Justice John Roberts in a small private ceremony in the White House. Roberts also led the ceremony during Obama's first inauguration in 2008.

Both Obama and Vice President Joe Biden was also sworn in again during a public inauguration ceremony on Monday, January 21, Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

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Monday - Saturday 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

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ASSISTANT COORDINATOR OF EDUCATIONAL FIELD EXPERIENCES in College of Education - Student Services.

Responsibilities include: assisting with the placement of teacher

candidates into practicum and student teaching settings with school districts, providing program support to K-12, Secondary Educa-

tion (9-12) and MAT (Master of Arts in Teaching) participants in the schools, supervising secondary teacher candidates, and providing support for supervisory staff, as needed.

For required qualifications and application procedures: https://jobs.

City of Springfield Mayor’s Commission on Human Rights and Community Relations

missouristate.edu or call (417) 836-4683. Pay Grade: 42. Salary: $30,146 - $34,000/annually. Successful candidates must be com-

mitted to working with diverse student and community populations.

Employment will require a criminal background check at University expense. AA/EOE.

“The MCHRCR works to promote understanding and respect among all citizens and provides the community recourse for discriminatory acts.”

840 Boonville Avenue Springfield, MO 65802 417-864-1038 www.springfieldmo.gov/boards/humanrights/index.html

Cultivating Dreams continued from page 1

University Library Science Assistant Professor. Dr. Jackson-Brown co-chairs the local Read-in committee with Springfield-Greene County Library’s Special Projects Coordinator Martha Love.

Local sponsors of the AARI are the Missouri State University Libraries, Drury University, Springfield-Greene County Library District, Springfield Public Schools, and the Springfield branch of the NAACP.

Missouri State University is accepting applications for

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February 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

February Unite Page 3

IN THIS ISSUE

Health & Mental Fitness Mother Teresa or Attila the Hun True Blue Colors I ask you, "Who doesn't want to be Green?" And that's the It rarely fails to happen. I'll be problem. Because we tend to see working with a group of facilitacertain traits as more favorable tors, doing an on-site training for than others, we have a tremensupervisors, or teaching a workdous tendency to cast ourselves shop for couples—the kind of in a favorable light. Who wants group really doesn't matter. We to admit to "having a temper" reach the point where it's time or being "demanding of othto focus on personality styles ers?" And yet, I'm betting that if and I ask participants to comwe asked our family members, plete the Primary Colors Person- friends and coworkers to comality Tool©, where participants plete the personality assessment are asked to about us, we endorse and might dis...important relationships cover some rank statements about uncomfortwere severely strained, or themselves. able things. even terminated, because At the complethese individuals were not For instance, tion of the we might able to accurately assess exercise their learn that we their impact on others. personality are demandstyle is idening and impatified as a color, e.g. "Red" or tient (Red). We could determine "Blue." There are six colors in that we have a tendency to be all—red, orange, yellow, green, so efficient that our friends and blue or purple—so one might family members feel left out of naturally expect to see a fairly our lives (Purple). We may well even distribution of colors in any unearth evidence suggesting group assembled. My experiwe talk down to others and have ence, though, after working a tendency to be a know-it-all with hundreds of people, has (Blue). We might be the kind been otherwise. Most often we who acts without thinking and have very few if any "Reds" and enjoys being the center of attena disproportionate number of tion (Orange). Or perhaps we "Greens." Why might this be? have difficulty being direct in First, I should explain that a telling others what we need and "Red," according to Primary Col- then exhibit anger in passive-agors, is one who "takes charge, is gressive ways (Yellow). determined, can have a temper, I've known folks who have can be demanding of others, taken this personality assessis forceful, competitive, direct, ment and rated themselves in impatient and opinionated." In the Mother Teresa range when contrast, a "Green" is "fair, tolerin actuality there were real ant, humble, unyielding, deeplyproblems at home or at work committed, respectful-of-others, because others experienced can be judgmental, trustworthy them more like Attila the Hun. and values harmony."

In some cases, important relaby Dr. Jennifer Baker Robert J. Murney Clinic

tionships were severely strained, or even terminated, because these individuals were not able to accurately assess their impact on others.

Gaining a New Perspective So what can be done? How can you know how others perceive you, especially in light of our admitted tendency to avoid seeing distasteful things about ourselves?

1) Find the grain of truth in remarks from your most serious critics. Those who disagree with you are not always right, but some of what they say may be close to the truth—particularly when it comes to your style of interaction with others.

Consider the possibility that you may be perfectionistic, insensitive, demanding, or any number of other unflattering descriptors.

Your friends won't tell you, but your enemies might.

2) Cultivate a few trustworthy friendships (one or two may do) with people who will tell you the truth. Go to these folks when you have a dilemma, when it's possible you could be wrong, when you need another perspective.

3) Seek professional direction or feedback. Many mental health professionals are familiar with personality inventories that will help you to gain a better understanding of your "relationship I.Q." The Taylor-Johnson Temperament Analysis (T-JTA) is one such instrument, but there are others. The point is to gain a better perspective on your hidden self.

Stressful relationships con-

continued on page 12

Carry It, Protect It, Don't Let Others Use It And If You Lose It, Report It

by Kathleen O’Dell , Springfield-Greene County Library District What’s the first thing we’re told to do if we lose our wallet or suspect it’s been stolen? Cancel credit and debit cards, alert the bank, maybe change some computer passwords and file a police report.

Would you think to report your library card as stolen, too? No? You’re not alone.

Many people don’t think about it until weeks or months later, when they get a notice from the library that they owe a hefty sum on an “overdue” balance – for book titles, CDs and DVDs they’ve never seen.

Recently, a young woman resolved a $300 overdue fine balance for items that someone else apparently checked out on her library card after her wallet was stolen. She was able to show us a copy of the police report she had filed right after the theft.

That helped her, but it didn’t help the library. Her delay in reporting the stolen card gave the thief lots of time to check out his heart’s desire, but it cost the library district and taxpayers because the items were never returned.

Want to save yourself some grief and protect the library books, music and movies you love? Give it the same treatment you would a credit card: Carry it, protect it, don’t let others use it and if you lose it, report it.

••• It’s fun to see who we are by the habits we practice – our traditions, the foods we eat and, yes, continued on page 5

The State of “The Village”

6

The Money Section

8 10

Volume 23, Number 2 Publisher Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc.

Community News

4

UNITE. Managing Editor Samuel G. Knox

by Gwen Marshall

Before You Begin Your Home Search

by Kim Jones

Lifestyle & Entertainment News

Food & Movie Review

Contributing Writers Lyle Foster Mia Jackson-Huskisson Kim Jones Gwen Marshall Kathleen O'Dell Photography David Huskisson David N Knox

by Lyle Foster

Distribution Bradley Knox

Health & Mental Fitness

Mother Teresa or Attila the Hun

Volunteers Tyra Knox Kerri McGrew Angelor Wilkes

by Dr Jennifer Baker

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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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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February Unite Page 9

February Unite Page 4

CommunitySection

Movie Review

continued from page 8

The State of “The Village” Gwendolyn Marshall Office of Cultural Diversity, SPS

school shootings, gang activity and sexual assault plague our nation’s teens. But violence is learned behavior and An often quoted Afpreventing it starts in rican proverb says, “It the home. takes a village to raise Whether you like a child.” But here’s an it or not, you set the important question for standard for your us all. What happens child's behavior. A child when the village itself that grows up exposed is in danger? Essence to violence is much Gwen Marshall Magazine editor more likely to become emeritus, Susan Taylor violent. As a parent, you warns that today, “The village is have the power to control a lot on fire!” of what your child is exposed to.

Violence among teenagers Let’s make sure we are setting a has become an increasingly good example for them. alarming problem in the United For me, Springfield, MisStates, around the world and souri is “the village” and in in our village. Occurrences of many respects, it is on fire. We

Flu Season is Here

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are witnessing more and more young people making poor decisions about their lives. What can we do to turn this around? How much do we really care about the future of our children? In her song ‘Greatest Love of All’, the late Whitney Houston sang, “I believe the children are our future; teach them well and let them lead the way. Show them all the beauty they possess inside…” I hope that the words of this song will inspire us to help a child to attain the greatness and beauty that they have inside.

Here are a some suggestions.

Talk to your teenager. Your child is not going to know where you stand on issues like violence if you do not tell him. From a young age, establish the idea that your family does not condone violent behavior. If your child grows up with the knowledge that violence is unacceptable, he will be less likely to consider it as an option. Set up family rules that provide clear consequences for any kind of violence.

Get involved in the community and your child's school. There are plenty of programs that aim to prevent teen violence, drug abuse and other actions that put teens at risk. The more parents are involved in their children's education and community, the better they are able to protect them as a group.

Create a safe haven for you and your family. If economic reasons prevent you from being able to live in a safe neighborhood, you can at least control the safety of your home. One of the most important ways to keeping your home safe is to prevent your teenager's access to firearms. If guns are kept

in the home, they should be unloaded and locked in a safe place.

Look for warning signs of violent behavior. Aggressive behavior and uncontrollable anger can lead to violence. An obsessive interest in things like weapons, violent games or websites can indicate a problem as well. Poor social relationships, violence toward animals, use of drugs or alcohol and overexposure to acts of violence are also warning signs. If there is a history of mental illness, abuse or poverty in the family, these factors can also put your child at risk.

Our children are a valuable gift to our village! If we teach them well, they will lead the way to a bright future.

For more information read this great little article entitled “How to Prevent Teen Violence with Parental Involvement” at http://tinyurl.com/PreventTeenViolence.

Important Dates To Remember February 1, 2013: Professional Learning /Work Day (Students Out All Day) February 4, 2013: Mid Third Quarter February 18, 2013: Presidents Day (School System Closed) ACT Test Dates: April 13, 2013 June 8, 2013 Registration Deadline March 8, 2013 May 3, 2013 Late Fee Required March 9 - 22 2013 May 4 - 17 2013

lesson in itself to witness her feisty spirit and the difficult yet understandable relationship between her and her father Wink is hard to watch but yet reminiscent at the same time.

The stories of who they are in life is great because Wink is a man named Dwight henry who has a bakery and was recruited for the film and never wanted to do it…but eventually relented.

He does an amazing job….and according to reports he has for now gone back to working at the bakery. Don’t you love it? Now that is freedom at its best! Quvenzhane Wallis plays Hushpuppy and has received numerous acclaims for her

Food Review

continued from page 8 storm and has a strong presence in international markets as well.

The store at 514 E. Commercial street makes the chocolate right there and the beans come from all over the world. Now before we go any further this chocolate costs money….it is upscale and you are supporting farmers in lands most of us will only dream about and the owner Shawn Askinosie goes to the farmers and pays them fairly!

The chocolate is worth it and it is full of healthy antioxidants and it says something special to whoever you buy it for.

Now when you go to the store be sure to ask questions…….sample the chocolate that you are buying….this is the welcome gift you are bringing to your special Valentine’s date. I love giving Askinosie chocolate …it is the gift that says you care and you also have a conscience and you don’t settle for the last minute thought at the grocery

role…….she searches for her mother in the film and seems to stand defiant despite her life in the bathtub. She is out of the bathtub in the real world after this because she is now a sensation.

I would suggest you try to see it and think what it means for you. What bathtub are you in? I love the quirky little community in the film because they are held together by a common love for their love for their community and for each other even though it is a Southern wild.

Let’s wish them well at the Academy Awards!

Did I say I didn’t like it…. maybe I do but I really had to think about it first.

90 out of 100 on the Movie Index Scale!

store check-out line…You must make a trip to Askinosie even though it is sold in some stores.

My favorite is the Tanzania Dark Chocolate bar……I will be candid…..I appreciate supporting farmers in the homeland and the taste is amazing. Plus if you have not been to the store before it is past cool….start the evening off with the best chocolate in North America made right here in good old Springfield…and please do me a favor…..don’t gawk at the price…..it is worth every penny and then some.

So with your Askinosie chocolate in the cute little gift bag they give you….you now go to Avanzare……did I mention that you will need reservations for the Valentine’s weekend….. and that is true for a lot of places in Springfield…..don’t be embarrassed or subject your special someone to a long and uncomfortable wait. Avanzare is located at 1908 S. Glenstone and it is Italian. I am partial to Italian as a cuisine and they do an ex-

ceptional job. I have reviewed them before so I am not going to do that again but they serve all of the favorites and they make the food from scratch. Now we all know the deal for special evenings like this one….you have to budget for it….entres typically go from the low 20’s and up and salads are ala carte.

So bring a few 20’s or the old plastic card. The atmosphere is on the upscale side but not too formal or stuffy. A recent renovation has brought a fresh look to the space and it is very comfortable so dress the part.

You already know my favorite which is the chicken parmesean, Caesar salad and grilled vegetables. Bon appetit. You may not have noticed yet but I am recommending places with A in their titles …so in that vein I will also recommend a budget option in case the recession has hit on the Valentine’s plans and we all understand that…..there is nothing wrong with Applebee’s…two locations in Springfield. The two for $20 special is a safe bet anytime. And they have some good healthy calorie conscious options.

Now I hope the weather is going to be good that night

Weaves

$200

…well at least not frigid because the last stop is at Andy’s Frozen Custard…..yes Springfield’s own. I am really trying to support local venues on this celebration of love day. Most people know where there favorite local Andy’s is and also have their own special flavor. On this day of indulgence and the affirmation of love and commitment some concrete from Andy’s is the perfect nightcap. Even if you have to stand in line just make it a fun part of your date.

The concrete or whatever you get is made to share which is perfect.

I think with this selection of Springfield based businesses on this special Valentine’s celebration your evening will be triple A!!! Also if you know the editor of the Unite, Mr. Samuel Knox….let him know that you want to put your name in the drawing for 2 gift cards in the amount of $25.00 to go towards your Valentine’s celebration.

Make sure we know how to contact you.

To everyone….please have a great Black History month and a special Valentine’s Day!!!

Men’s Cuts $20

Greg Williams, Owner/Operator 3111 S. Pickwick Phone: 417-887-3217

February Unite Page 8

February Unite Page 5

LifeStyle&EntertainmentNews Movie Review: “Beast of the Southern Wild”

by Lyle Foster Unite Contributing Writer

costs over a hundred million to make? It’s a little bit like the little engine that could.

Beasts of the Southern I also like that the film was Wild……Difficult but Timely! made by a New Orleans collective of talented filmmakers and I I didn’t like Beasts am in favor of anything of the Southern Wild that lifts Katrina ravaged because it reminded New Orleans. me of the true stateDirector Ben ment……there but for Zeitlin’s work has been the grace of God go nominated for four acadI. And I don’t say that emy awards as in Best to mean pity these Actor, Best Director, poor characters or life Best Actress and Best Lyle Foster in Springfield is all of Adapted Screenplay. that and a bag of chips.

This is not bad for a little But rather sometimes a story or small budget film. It was introin this case a film that reminds duced at the Sundance film fesyou of the images and messages tival in January 2012 and since that sometimes you are not prethat time has received and been pared for or maybe don’t want nominated for many awards. to be reminded of.

I love the fact that it embodies What I do like about Beasts the truth that there are some is that it is a low budget… determined folks in the world hmmm shoestring budget Indie that don’t want the lifestyle that film that has surprised all of the you think is best for them….. haters, doubters and prognostithey live like they want to live cators and has succeeded about and they love it and they go and beyond expectations. Isn’t to the wall for each other… that cool when a low budget because they are free. And film made by some creative and yes it is hard to see little ones determined folks competes and in these predicaments and to sometimes beats out the blockthink or contemplate that this buster Hollywood films that may be their world but the

bathtub (as the ramshackle bayou community is called) is the world of Hushpuppy…the little girl that has Hollywood talking. The bathtub represents a southern Delta community where life is hard and nothing is pretty ...maybe except the sky and even that can bring life threatening rains. When her father Wink gets sick ( and I love these names!) the world changes for Hushpuppy and it seems like everything changes…..the small ragtag community they live in is supposed to be evacuated and weather gets crazy and some mythical creatures from the past are back again. The film has a fantasy element to it and some people like that and some do not….it is a preference. But maybe if your world was like this you may have your escape world as well. I could read a lot

into the film and its deep meanings and insight into the world but I want you to see it for yourself. It came out earlier in the year but because of its Academy Award nominations has had a second resurgence and was recently in a short run at the Moxie.

There are many that like the film and others that find it objectionable and not worth their time. This is the beauty of a story because some like it and some do not. However, I would argue that it is a story to be told…..the story of people who have always lived on the other side of the tracks and there will always be people on that side and the defiant spirit…..the rejection of the norms…the comraderie and the coping are worth the time. Little Hushpuppy is a continued on page 9

Food Review: Treats of the Season!

by Lyle Foster Unite Contributing Writer I struggled a bit this month because I was torn between writing about some real good ethnic cuisine in deference to Black History month or reflecting on the season of love and romantic dining. Is it possible that we can call a truce? Let’s remember that this is Black History month

and it is a good time to support and eat all of those southern comfort foods……I must be honest that when I write about this kind of cuisine I develop hunger pains and visions of smothered chicken, candied yams, cornbread dressing and peach cobbler dance through my head…yes they do. So celebrate by cooking or buying some of that food and since I am

trying to watch my blood pressure…..send me a picture!!!

So the winner this time is, "What the world needs now is love…sweet love and it’s the only thing that there is just too little of." So this year it is a restaurant dream because the special day that we celebrate love comes on Thursday which means almost a week of possible restaurant nights and definitely

a long weekend. So I am going to suggest a possible threesome that will be sure to make this a culinary delight of a holiday and your special someone remember for the rest of the year. I want to start the special evening off with Askinosie chocolate……the small boutique chocolate manufacturer on Commercial Street that has taken the country by continued on page 9

The Library

continued from page 3 the books we read. It’s anyone’s guess what this next revelation says about us as readers, but it’s interesting to consider.

Through the Interlibrary Loan department, the Springfield-Greene County Library District lends books to readers across the country, and our patrons also borrow books from other U.S. libraries if we don’t carry them.

Can you guess the most popular genre people borrow from our collection? It’s “manga,” the Japanese comic books geared to youth and adults. They’re artsy

and entertaining, and cover a wide variety of themes. After manga, others borrow fiction romance/erotica, followed by the religious/spiritual genre and then true crime.

What do we borrow most from other libraries across the state and country? In order of popularity: Romance novels and mystery, manga, then health/fitness, followed by knitting/craft hobbies.

What’s on your night stand?

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

Minorities in Business Announces Third Annual Heritage Awards Springfield, MO— Four outstanding Springfield citizens will be honored for their contributions to the community at the upcoming Third Annual Minorities in Business Heritage Awards ceremony.

Minorities in Business promotes economic development and business opportunities through advocacy, networking, community development and capacity-building for minority businesses and entrepreneurs in the greater Springfield area.

• Charlotte Hardin, Assistant to the Head of the Professional Education Unit for Diversity Initiatives and Strategic Planning at Missouri State University, will receive the Achievement Award in recognition of her leadership at Missouri State as well as in the Springfield community and at the state level.

• Brenda Ryan, president/ owner of Alliance Industries LLC

in Springfield and Ryan Industries Inc. in Wixom, Mich., will be honored with the Small Business Person of the Year Award.

• Rev. Dr. Phil Snider, senior pastor at Brentwood Christian Church, will receive the Advocacy Award. He is a founder of the Greater Springfield Center for Diversity and Reconciliation.

• Rosalyn Thomas, a longtime educator and civic leader in Springfield, will be honored with the Community Service Award in recognition of her work at the Springfield Community Center, Springfield Public Schools and many other endeavors.

The honorees will be recognized at an awards banquet on Tuesday, Feb. 19, at the Howard Johnson Conference Center, 3333 S. Glenstone, Springfield.

The social hour will begin at 5:30 pm and dinner will start at 6:45 pm. Tickets are available from Nora England at 417-861-7568.

MSU African American Heritage Month Calendar of Events February 7, 2013 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Black Aids Awareness Day Missouri State University –Plaster Student Union, Room 317 Information available regarding HIV/AIDS and the impact on the Black community. Free testing for HIV/AIDS, STDs and Hepatitis C. Sponsored by MSU Association of Black Collegians February 11, 2013 – 7:00 p.m.

Those Acoustic Kats Performance Missouri State University –Plaster Student Union Theatre February 19, 2013 – 7:00 p.m.

Guest Speaker: Ms. Rae Lewis Thornton Missouri State University –Plaster

Student Union Theatre A conversation and presentation regarding how to embrace a healthy lifestyle and live a full life with HIV/AIDS. Sponsored by the MSU Student Activities Council February 25, 2013 – 7:00 p.m.

African American Read in Program: “Cultivation Your Dreams” Library Station 2535 N. Kansas Expressway, Springfield An evening of poetry, music, and stories written and composed

by African American authors.

Sponsored by the Springfield African American Read-In Committee Contact: Dr. Grace Jackson-Brown at 417-836-4547 or GjacksonBrown@missouristate.edu

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.

Employment will require a criminal background check at University expense.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Institution

February Unite Page 7

February 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)

The MoneySection Business Loans – What Lenders Look for and Tips for Winning Them Over

by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator Securing small business financing can be challenging.

Whether you are just starting out or looking to grow, banks and lending institutions can be rigorous in their lending review practices.

For example, businesses with few assets to their name may find it hard to secure a traditional loan. Other business owners may not be able to provide the reassurance that lenders seek to alleviate their concerns that your business may fail and the loan won’t get repaid. So when you approach a

lender, it’s just as important to • That you have sufficient understand the basis on which assets, financial reserves and loans are made as it is to stack personal collateral to endure up your financials business fluctuaAsk yourself: “Why and business plan. tions (and still pay should this lender So what are off your loan) lenders looking for think my business can • As an existing succeed where others business owner, in a potential loan have failed?” applicant? Here’s you’ll need to show what you need to that you have solid know. cash flow, sufficient to repay the loan Loan Applicants Need to • New businesses need to Check off Several Boxes evidence that they have a track What are loan officers lookrecord of profitability and sucing for when approached about cess in a similar business a loan? Here are some basic endeavor “must-haves” that the ideal Let’s face it, that’s a tricky candidate might be expected to list for any prospective or existcontinued on page 7 evidence:

Before You Begin Your Home Search based on the information given, you most likely will be approved for a mortgage; however, this holds no weight in the Over the past couple contract negotiation of issues, we have process. A pre-apexplored the relevance proval is the result of of credit in regard to an actual credit review, purchasing a home. It verification of income is now time to move on and other financial toward the actual home documents and a buying process. completed loan apBefore you begin Kim Jones plication. This letter, your home search, when included in the purchase obtain a pre-approval letter from your lender. Do not confuse this offer, indicates that the buyer is seriously seeking a home and with a pre-qualification letter. A able to obtain a mortgage for the pre-qualification is most often offered price. obtained from verbal informaNext, make a distinction betion from the buyer either directtween needs and wants. You may ly to a loan officer, automated need three bedrooms, you may phone system or entered on a mortgage web site. It states that want all brick. Be prepared to

by Kim Jones Unite Contributing Writer

compromise. Remember, there is no perfect house. Cosmetic issues such as paint and carpet are easy fixes and should play a minor role in the overall house selection. However, these issues can come into play in negotiating the final purchase price.

Also, be realistic about what to expect in your price range, especially if you are a first-time home buyer. Your first home is usually not your dream home.

Be prepared to start small and move up.

Buying a home can be a daunting and overwhelming process. It is also fun and exciting when accomplished with the proper assistance. Next month we will discuss choosing and working with a realtor.

Business Loans continued from page 6

ing small business! So what are your options? Proving your creditworthiness is still possible, with some planning and preparation.

How to Prove Your Creditworthiness Bankers need to make money, and while they may have an ideal candidate in mind, even they have to compromise­—this is where your opportunity lies.

The trick is to demonstrate, using other means, that you are a creditworthy business owner.

For example, if you are new to this business, can you show success in managing a similar business another field (even if you weren’t the owner)? Perhaps you’ve owned or managed a profitable business in a different industry? Lending officers might be more agreeable to your application if you can show that you supplement your own experience with that of someone who also has success in the field.

Putting yourself in the lender’s shoes is a good starting point. It’s much like a job interview, where you form an understanding of the type of candidate the employer is looking for and prepare your application and anticipate questions accordingly. Ask yourself: “Why should this lender think my business can succeed where others have failed?” and have a thorough answer prepared, plus a detailed explanation of how the money will be used and your plan for

paying it off.

Step Back and Prepare Key to this preparation is a solid business plan, good personal and business credit, and some expert help. The following SBA resources and tools can help guide you down this preparation path: Build a Business Plan Online Tool – Putting pen to paper to write a business plan isn’t the easiest of tasks. Check out this new tool from SBA that guides small business owners through the process of creating a basic, downloadable business plan— and offers pointers on essential elements like cash flow and financial projections. The great thing about this tool is you can build a plan in smaller bites, save your progress and return at your leisure.

Clean Up Your Credit – Business credit is an asset and considered an economic resource that makes up the financial foundation of a company. Lenders look for assets.

SBA guest blogger Marco Carbajo blogs regularly about how to build your business and personal credit to help secure financing. Check out his article, How To Build Business Credit For Your Start Up, and view more of Marco’s articles here (you’ll need to log into the SBA Community to follow this link).

Consult an Expert – Whether you need help finding the right loan for your business continued on page 12

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 American Legion Post Norvel Stafford 1339 E. Division St Springfield, MO 65803 417-862-9123 Conzy Mitchell-Burns, President Ladies Civic League Provides scholarships for youth P. O. Box 8296 Springfield, MO 65801 417-894-0399 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 911 E. 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

Every First Tuesday of the Month

Minorities In Business monthly networking meeting

What: Networking & Guest Speakers When: 5:15 p.m.

Where: Q Enoteca • Anyone interested in business is welcome.

318 West Commercial Street For more information call: (417) 861-0760

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

February Unite Page 7

February 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)

The MoneySection Business Loans – What Lenders Look for and Tips for Winning Them Over

by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator Securing small business financing can be challenging.

Whether you are just starting out or looking to grow, banks and lending institutions can be rigorous in their lending review practices.

For example, businesses with few assets to their name may find it hard to secure a traditional loan. Other business owners may not be able to provide the reassurance that lenders seek to alleviate their concerns that your business may fail and the loan won’t get repaid. So when you approach a

lender, it’s just as important to • That you have sufficient understand the basis on which assets, financial reserves and loans are made as it is to stack personal collateral to endure up your financials business fluctuaAsk yourself: “Why and business plan. tions (and still pay should this lender So what are off your loan) lenders looking for think my business can • As an existing succeed where others business owner, in a potential loan have failed?” applicant? Here’s you’ll need to show what you need to that you have solid know. cash flow, sufficient to repay the loan Loan Applicants Need to • New businesses need to Check off Several Boxes evidence that they have a track What are loan officers lookrecord of profitability and sucing for when approached about cess in a similar business a loan? Here are some basic endeavor “must-haves” that the ideal Let’s face it, that’s a tricky candidate might be expected to list for any prospective or existcontinued on page 7 evidence:

Before You Begin Your Home Search based on the information given, you most likely will be approved for a mortgage; however, this holds no weight in the Over the past couple contract negotiation of issues, we have process. A pre-apexplored the relevance proval is the result of of credit in regard to an actual credit review, purchasing a home. It verification of income is now time to move on and other financial toward the actual home documents and a buying process. completed loan apBefore you begin Kim Jones plication. This letter, your home search, when included in the purchase obtain a pre-approval letter from your lender. Do not confuse this offer, indicates that the buyer is seriously seeking a home and with a pre-qualification letter. A able to obtain a mortgage for the pre-qualification is most often offered price. obtained from verbal informaNext, make a distinction betion from the buyer either directtween needs and wants. You may ly to a loan officer, automated need three bedrooms, you may phone system or entered on a mortgage web site. It states that want all brick. Be prepared to

by Kim Jones Unite Contributing Writer

compromise. Remember, there is no perfect house. Cosmetic issues such as paint and carpet are easy fixes and should play a minor role in the overall house selection. However, these issues can come into play in negotiating the final purchase price.

Also, be realistic about what to expect in your price range, especially if you are a first-time home buyer. Your first home is usually not your dream home.

Be prepared to start small and move up.

Buying a home can be a daunting and overwhelming process. It is also fun and exciting when accomplished with the proper assistance. Next month we will discuss choosing and working with a realtor.

Business Loans continued from page 6

ing small business! So what are your options? Proving your creditworthiness is still possible, with some planning and preparation.

How to Prove Your Creditworthiness Bankers need to make money, and while they may have an ideal candidate in mind, even they have to compromise­—this is where your opportunity lies.

The trick is to demonstrate, using other means, that you are a creditworthy business owner.

For example, if you are new to this business, can you show success in managing a similar business another field (even if you weren’t the owner)? Perhaps you’ve owned or managed a profitable business in a different industry? Lending officers might be more agreeable to your application if you can show that you supplement your own experience with that of someone who also has success in the field.

Putting yourself in the lender’s shoes is a good starting point. It’s much like a job interview, where you form an understanding of the type of candidate the employer is looking for and prepare your application and anticipate questions accordingly. Ask yourself: “Why should this lender think my business can succeed where others have failed?” and have a thorough answer prepared, plus a detailed explanation of how the money will be used and your plan for

paying it off.

Step Back and Prepare Key to this preparation is a solid business plan, good personal and business credit, and some expert help. The following SBA resources and tools can help guide you down this preparation path: Build a Business Plan Online Tool – Putting pen to paper to write a business plan isn’t the easiest of tasks. Check out this new tool from SBA that guides small business owners through the process of creating a basic, downloadable business plan— and offers pointers on essential elements like cash flow and financial projections. The great thing about this tool is you can build a plan in smaller bites, save your progress and return at your leisure.

Clean Up Your Credit – Business credit is an asset and considered an economic resource that makes up the financial foundation of a company. Lenders look for assets.

SBA guest blogger Marco Carbajo blogs regularly about how to build your business and personal credit to help secure financing. Check out his article, How To Build Business Credit For Your Start Up, and view more of Marco’s articles here (you’ll need to log into the SBA Community to follow this link).

Consult an Expert – Whether you need help finding the right loan for your business continued on page 12

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 American Legion Post Norvel Stafford 1339 E. Division St Springfield, MO 65803 417-862-9123 Conzy Mitchell-Burns, President Ladies Civic League Provides scholarships for youth P. O. Box 8296 Springfield, MO 65801 417-894-0399 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 911 E. 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

Every First Tuesday of the Month

Minorities In Business monthly networking meeting

What: Networking & Guest Speakers When: 5:15 p.m.

Where: Q Enoteca • Anyone interested in business is welcome.

318 West Commercial Street For more information call: (417) 861-0760

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

February Unite Page 8

February Unite Page 5

LifeStyle&EntertainmentNews Movie Review: “Beast of the Southern Wild”

by Lyle Foster Unite Contributing Writer

costs over a hundred million to make? It’s a little bit like the little engine that could.

Beasts of the Southern I also like that the film was Wild……Difficult but Timely! made by a New Orleans collective of talented filmmakers and I I didn’t like Beasts am in favor of anything of the Southern Wild that lifts Katrina ravaged because it reminded New Orleans. me of the true stateDirector Ben ment……there but for Zeitlin’s work has been the grace of God go nominated for four acadI. And I don’t say that emy awards as in Best to mean pity these Actor, Best Director, poor characters or life Best Actress and Best Lyle Foster in Springfield is all of Adapted Screenplay. that and a bag of chips.

This is not bad for a little But rather sometimes a story or small budget film. It was introin this case a film that reminds duced at the Sundance film fesyou of the images and messages tival in January 2012 and since that sometimes you are not prethat time has received and been pared for or maybe don’t want nominated for many awards. to be reminded of.

I love the fact that it embodies What I do like about Beasts the truth that there are some is that it is a low budget… determined folks in the world hmmm shoestring budget Indie that don’t want the lifestyle that film that has surprised all of the you think is best for them….. haters, doubters and prognostithey live like they want to live cators and has succeeded about and they love it and they go and beyond expectations. Isn’t to the wall for each other… that cool when a low budget because they are free. And film made by some creative and yes it is hard to see little ones determined folks competes and in these predicaments and to sometimes beats out the blockthink or contemplate that this buster Hollywood films that may be their world but the

bathtub (as the ramshackle bayou community is called) is the world of Hushpuppy…the little girl that has Hollywood talking. The bathtub represents a southern Delta community where life is hard and nothing is pretty ...maybe except the sky and even that can bring life threatening rains. When her father Wink gets sick ( and I love these names!) the world changes for Hushpuppy and it seems like everything changes…..the small ragtag community they live in is supposed to be evacuated and weather gets crazy and some mythical creatures from the past are back again. The film has a fantasy element to it and some people like that and some do not….it is a preference. But maybe if your world was like this you may have your escape world as well. I could read a lot

into the film and its deep meanings and insight into the world but I want you to see it for yourself. It came out earlier in the year but because of its Academy Award nominations has had a second resurgence and was recently in a short run at the Moxie.

There are many that like the film and others that find it objectionable and not worth their time. This is the beauty of a story because some like it and some do not. However, I would argue that it is a story to be told…..the story of people who have always lived on the other side of the tracks and there will always be people on that side and the defiant spirit…..the rejection of the norms…the comraderie and the coping are worth the time. Little Hushpuppy is a continued on page 9

Food Review: Treats of the Season!

by Lyle Foster Unite Contributing Writer I struggled a bit this month because I was torn between writing about some real good ethnic cuisine in deference to Black History month or reflecting on the season of love and romantic dining. Is it possible that we can call a truce? Let’s remember that this is Black History month

and it is a good time to support and eat all of those southern comfort foods……I must be honest that when I write about this kind of cuisine I develop hunger pains and visions of smothered chicken, candied yams, cornbread dressing and peach cobbler dance through my head…yes they do. So celebrate by cooking or buying some of that food and since I am

trying to watch my blood pressure…..send me a picture!!!

So the winner this time is, "What the world needs now is love…sweet love and it’s the only thing that there is just too little of." So this year it is a restaurant dream because the special day that we celebrate love comes on Thursday which means almost a week of possible restaurant nights and definitely

a long weekend. So I am going to suggest a possible threesome that will be sure to make this a culinary delight of a holiday and your special someone remember for the rest of the year. I want to start the special evening off with Askinosie chocolate……the small boutique chocolate manufacturer on Commercial Street that has taken the country by continued on page 9

The Library

continued from page 3 the books we read. It’s anyone’s guess what this next revelation says about us as readers, but it’s interesting to consider.

Through the Interlibrary Loan department, the Springfield-Greene County Library District lends books to readers across the country, and our patrons also borrow books from other U.S. libraries if we don’t carry them.

Can you guess the most popular genre people borrow from our collection? It’s “manga,” the Japanese comic books geared to youth and adults. They’re artsy

and entertaining, and cover a wide variety of themes. After manga, others borrow fiction romance/erotica, followed by the religious/spiritual genre and then true crime.

What do we borrow most from other libraries across the state and country? In order of popularity: Romance novels and mystery, manga, then health/fitness, followed by knitting/craft hobbies.

What’s on your night stand?

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

Minorities in Business Announces Third Annual Heritage Awards Springfield, MO— Four outstanding Springfield citizens will be honored for their contributions to the community at the upcoming Third Annual Minorities in Business Heritage Awards ceremony.

Minorities in Business promotes economic development and business opportunities through advocacy, networking, community development and capacity-building for minority businesses and entrepreneurs in the greater Springfield area.

• Charlotte Hardin, Assistant to the Head of the Professional Education Unit for Diversity Initiatives and Strategic Planning at Missouri State University, will receive the Achievement Award in recognition of her leadership at Missouri State as well as in the Springfield community and at the state level.

• Brenda Ryan, president/ owner of Alliance Industries LLC

in Springfield and Ryan Industries Inc. in Wixom, Mich., will be honored with the Small Business Person of the Year Award.

• Rev. Dr. Phil Snider, senior pastor at Brentwood Christian Church, will receive the Advocacy Award. He is a founder of the Greater Springfield Center for Diversity and Reconciliation.

• Rosalyn Thomas, a longtime educator and civic leader in Springfield, will be honored with the Community Service Award in recognition of her work at the Springfield Community Center, Springfield Public Schools and many other endeavors.

The honorees will be recognized at an awards banquet on Tuesday, Feb. 19, at the Howard Johnson Conference Center, 3333 S. Glenstone, Springfield.

The social hour will begin at 5:30 pm and dinner will start at 6:45 pm. Tickets are available from Nora England at 417-861-7568.

MSU African American Heritage Month Calendar of Events February 7, 2013 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Black Aids Awareness Day Missouri State University –Plaster Student Union, Room 317 Information available regarding HIV/AIDS and the impact on the Black community. Free testing for HIV/AIDS, STDs and Hepatitis C. Sponsored by MSU Association of Black Collegians February 11, 2013 – 7:00 p.m.

Those Acoustic Kats Performance Missouri State University –Plaster Student Union Theatre February 19, 2013 – 7:00 p.m.

Guest Speaker: Ms. Rae Lewis Thornton Missouri State University –Plaster

Student Union Theatre A conversation and presentation regarding how to embrace a healthy lifestyle and live a full life with HIV/AIDS. Sponsored by the MSU Student Activities Council February 25, 2013 – 7:00 p.m.

African American Read in Program: “Cultivation Your Dreams” Library Station 2535 N. Kansas Expressway, Springfield An evening of poetry, music, and stories written and composed

by African American authors.

Sponsored by the Springfield African American Read-In Committee Contact: Dr. Grace Jackson-Brown at 417-836-4547 or GjacksonBrown@missouristate.edu

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.

Employment will require a criminal background check at University expense.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Institution

February Unite Page 9

February Unite Page 4

CommunitySection

Movie Review

continued from page 8

The State of “The Village” Gwendolyn Marshall Office of Cultural Diversity, SPS

school shootings, gang activity and sexual assault plague our nation’s teens. But violence is learned behavior and An often quoted Afpreventing it starts in rican proverb says, “It the home. takes a village to raise Whether you like a child.” But here’s an it or not, you set the important question for standard for your us all. What happens child's behavior. A child when the village itself that grows up exposed is in danger? Essence to violence is much Gwen Marshall Magazine editor more likely to become emeritus, Susan Taylor violent. As a parent, you warns that today, “The village is have the power to control a lot on fire!” of what your child is exposed to.

Violence among teenagers Let’s make sure we are setting a has become an increasingly good example for them. alarming problem in the United For me, Springfield, MisStates, around the world and souri is “the village” and in in our village. Occurrences of many respects, it is on fire. We

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are witnessing more and more young people making poor decisions about their lives. What can we do to turn this around? How much do we really care about the future of our children? In her song ‘Greatest Love of All’, the late Whitney Houston sang, “I believe the children are our future; teach them well and let them lead the way. Show them all the beauty they possess inside…” I hope that the words of this song will inspire us to help a child to attain the greatness and beauty that they have inside.

Here are a some suggestions.

Talk to your teenager. Your child is not going to know where you stand on issues like violence if you do not tell him. From a young age, establish the idea that your family does not condone violent behavior. If your child grows up with the knowledge that violence is unacceptable, he will be less likely to consider it as an option. Set up family rules that provide clear consequences for any kind of violence.

Get involved in the community and your child's school. There are plenty of programs that aim to prevent teen violence, drug abuse and other actions that put teens at risk. The more parents are involved in their children's education and community, the better they are able to protect them as a group.

Create a safe haven for you and your family. If economic reasons prevent you from being able to live in a safe neighborhood, you can at least control the safety of your home. One of the most important ways to keeping your home safe is to prevent your teenager's access to firearms. If guns are kept

in the home, they should be unloaded and locked in a safe place.

Look for warning signs of violent behavior. Aggressive behavior and uncontrollable anger can lead to violence. An obsessive interest in things like weapons, violent games or websites can indicate a problem as well. Poor social relationships, violence toward animals, use of drugs or alcohol and overexposure to acts of violence are also warning signs. If there is a history of mental illness, abuse or poverty in the family, these factors can also put your child at risk.

Our children are a valuable gift to our village! If we teach them well, they will lead the way to a bright future.

For more information read this great little article entitled “How to Prevent Teen Violence with Parental Involvement” at http://tinyurl.com/PreventTeenViolence.

Important Dates To Remember February 1, 2013: Professional Learning /Work Day (Students Out All Day) February 4, 2013: Mid Third Quarter February 18, 2013: Presidents Day (School System Closed) ACT Test Dates: April 13, 2013 June 8, 2013 Registration Deadline March 8, 2013 May 3, 2013 Late Fee Required March 9 - 22 2013 May 4 - 17 2013

lesson in itself to witness her feisty spirit and the difficult yet understandable relationship between her and her father Wink is hard to watch but yet reminiscent at the same time.

The stories of who they are in life is great because Wink is a man named Dwight henry who has a bakery and was recruited for the film and never wanted to do it…but eventually relented.

He does an amazing job….and according to reports he has for now gone back to working at the bakery. Don’t you love it? Now that is freedom at its best! Quvenzhane Wallis plays Hushpuppy and has received numerous acclaims for her

Food Review

continued from page 8 storm and has a strong presence in international markets as well.

The store at 514 E. Commercial street makes the chocolate right there and the beans come from all over the world. Now before we go any further this chocolate costs money….it is upscale and you are supporting farmers in lands most of us will only dream about and the owner Shawn Askinosie goes to the farmers and pays them fairly!

The chocolate is worth it and it is full of healthy antioxidants and it says something special to whoever you buy it for.

Now when you go to the store be sure to ask questions…….sample the chocolate that you are buying….this is the welcome gift you are bringing to your special Valentine’s date. I love giving Askinosie chocolate …it is the gift that says you care and you also have a conscience and you don’t settle for the last minute thought at the grocery

role…….she searches for her mother in the film and seems to stand defiant despite her life in the bathtub. She is out of the bathtub in the real world after this because she is now a sensation.

I would suggest you try to see it and think what it means for you. What bathtub are you in? I love the quirky little community in the film because they are held together by a common love for their love for their community and for each other even though it is a Southern wild.

Let’s wish them well at the Academy Awards!

Did I say I didn’t like it…. maybe I do but I really had to think about it first.

90 out of 100 on the Movie Index Scale!

store check-out line…You must make a trip to Askinosie even though it is sold in some stores.

My favorite is the Tanzania Dark Chocolate bar……I will be candid…..I appreciate supporting farmers in the homeland and the taste is amazing. Plus if you have not been to the store before it is past cool….start the evening off with the best chocolate in North America made right here in good old Springfield…and please do me a favor…..don’t gawk at the price…..it is worth every penny and then some.

So with your Askinosie chocolate in the cute little gift bag they give you….you now go to Avanzare……did I mention that you will need reservations for the Valentine’s weekend….. and that is true for a lot of places in Springfield…..don’t be embarrassed or subject your special someone to a long and uncomfortable wait. Avanzare is located at 1908 S. Glenstone and it is Italian. I am partial to Italian as a cuisine and they do an ex-

ceptional job. I have reviewed them before so I am not going to do that again but they serve all of the favorites and they make the food from scratch. Now we all know the deal for special evenings like this one….you have to budget for it….entres typically go from the low 20’s and up and salads are ala carte.

So bring a few 20’s or the old plastic card. The atmosphere is on the upscale side but not too formal or stuffy. A recent renovation has brought a fresh look to the space and it is very comfortable so dress the part.

You already know my favorite which is the chicken parmesean, Caesar salad and grilled vegetables. Bon appetit. You may not have noticed yet but I am recommending places with A in their titles …so in that vein I will also recommend a budget option in case the recession has hit on the Valentine’s plans and we all understand that…..there is nothing wrong with Applebee’s…two locations in Springfield. The two for $20 special is a safe bet anytime. And they have some good healthy calorie conscious options.

Now I hope the weather is going to be good that night

Weaves

$200

…well at least not frigid because the last stop is at Andy’s Frozen Custard…..yes Springfield’s own. I am really trying to support local venues on this celebration of love day. Most people know where there favorite local Andy’s is and also have their own special flavor. On this day of indulgence and the affirmation of love and commitment some concrete from Andy’s is the perfect nightcap. Even if you have to stand in line just make it a fun part of your date.

The concrete or whatever you get is made to share which is perfect.

I think with this selection of Springfield based businesses on this special Valentine’s celebration your evening will be triple A!!! Also if you know the editor of the Unite, Mr. Samuel Knox….let him know that you want to put your name in the drawing for 2 gift cards in the amount of $25.00 to go towards your Valentine’s celebration.

Make sure we know how to contact you.

To everyone….please have a great Black History month and a special Valentine’s Day!!!

Men’s Cuts $20

Greg Williams, Owner/Operator 3111 S. Pickwick Phone: 417-887-3217

February 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

February Unite Page 3

IN THIS ISSUE

Health & Mental Fitness Mother Teresa or Attila the Hun True Blue Colors I ask you, "Who doesn't want to be Green?" And that's the It rarely fails to happen. I'll be problem. Because we tend to see working with a group of facilitacertain traits as more favorable tors, doing an on-site training for than others, we have a tremensupervisors, or teaching a workdous tendency to cast ourselves shop for couples—the kind of in a favorable light. Who wants group really doesn't matter. We to admit to "having a temper" reach the point where it's time or being "demanding of othto focus on personality styles ers?" And yet, I'm betting that if and I ask participants to comwe asked our family members, plete the Primary Colors Person- friends and coworkers to comality Tool©, where participants plete the personality assessment are asked to about us, we endorse and might dis...important relationships cover some rank statements about uncomfortwere severely strained, or themselves. able things. even terminated, because At the complethese individuals were not For instance, tion of the we might able to accurately assess exercise their learn that we their impact on others. personality are demandstyle is idening and impatified as a color, e.g. "Red" or tient (Red). We could determine "Blue." There are six colors in that we have a tendency to be all—red, orange, yellow, green, so efficient that our friends and blue or purple—so one might family members feel left out of naturally expect to see a fairly our lives (Purple). We may well even distribution of colors in any unearth evidence suggesting group assembled. My experiwe talk down to others and have ence, though, after working a tendency to be a know-it-all with hundreds of people, has (Blue). We might be the kind been otherwise. Most often we who acts without thinking and have very few if any "Reds" and enjoys being the center of attena disproportionate number of tion (Orange). Or perhaps we "Greens." Why might this be? have difficulty being direct in First, I should explain that a telling others what we need and "Red," according to Primary Col- then exhibit anger in passive-agors, is one who "takes charge, is gressive ways (Yellow). determined, can have a temper, I've known folks who have can be demanding of others, taken this personality assessis forceful, competitive, direct, ment and rated themselves in impatient and opinionated." In the Mother Teresa range when contrast, a "Green" is "fair, tolerin actuality there were real ant, humble, unyielding, deeplyproblems at home or at work committed, respectful-of-others, because others experienced can be judgmental, trustworthy them more like Attila the Hun. and values harmony."

In some cases, important relaby Dr. Jennifer Baker Robert J. Murney Clinic

tionships were severely strained, or even terminated, because these individuals were not able to accurately assess their impact on others.

Gaining a New Perspective So what can be done? How can you know how others perceive you, especially in light of our admitted tendency to avoid seeing distasteful things about ourselves?

1) Find the grain of truth in remarks from your most serious critics. Those who disagree with you are not always right, but some of what they say may be close to the truth—particularly when it comes to your style of interaction with others.

Consider the possibility that you may be perfectionistic, insensitive, demanding, or any number of other unflattering descriptors.

Your friends won't tell you, but your enemies might.

2) Cultivate a few trustworthy friendships (one or two may do) with people who will tell you the truth. Go to these folks when you have a dilemma, when it's possible you could be wrong, when you need another perspective.

3) Seek professional direction or feedback. Many mental health professionals are familiar with personality inventories that will help you to gain a better understanding of your "relationship I.Q." The Taylor-Johnson Temperament Analysis (T-JTA) is one such instrument, but there are others. The point is to gain a better perspective on your hidden self.

Stressful relationships con-

continued on page 12

Carry It, Protect It, Don't Let Others Use It And If You Lose It, Report It

by Kathleen O’Dell , Springfield-Greene County Library District What’s the first thing we’re told to do if we lose our wallet or suspect it’s been stolen? Cancel credit and debit cards, alert the bank, maybe change some computer passwords and file a police report.

Would you think to report your library card as stolen, too? No? You’re not alone.

Many people don’t think about it until weeks or months later, when they get a notice from the library that they owe a hefty sum on an “overdue” balance – for book titles, CDs and DVDs they’ve never seen.

Recently, a young woman resolved a $300 overdue fine balance for items that someone else apparently checked out on her library card after her wallet was stolen. She was able to show us a copy of the police report she had filed right after the theft.

That helped her, but it didn’t help the library. Her delay in reporting the stolen card gave the thief lots of time to check out his heart’s desire, but it cost the library district and taxpayers because the items were never returned.

Want to save yourself some grief and protect the library books, music and movies you love? Give it the same treatment you would a credit card: Carry it, protect it, don’t let others use it and if you lose it, report it.

••• It’s fun to see who we are by the habits we practice – our traditions, the foods we eat and, yes, continued on page 5

The State of “The Village”

6

The Money Section

8 10

Volume 23, Number 2 Publisher Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc.

Community News

4

UNITE. Managing Editor Samuel G. Knox

by Gwen Marshall

Before You Begin Your Home Search

by Kim Jones

Lifestyle & Entertainment News

Food & Movie Review

Contributing Writers Lyle Foster Mia Jackson-Huskisson Kim Jones Gwen Marshall Kathleen O'Dell Photography David Huskisson David N Knox

by Lyle Foster

Distribution Bradley Knox

Health & Mental Fitness

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Volunteers Tyra Knox Kerri McGrew Angelor Wilkes

by Dr Jennifer Baker

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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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February Unite Page 11

February Unite Page 2

Historial Struggle continued from page 1

and museums. Here are a few sites within driving distance: Springfield: The History Museum for Springfield offers an exhibit and archives of Black History in Springfield, MO. You may find more information at: www. springfieldhistorymuseum.org or by phone at (417) 864-1976.

Ash Grove: Ozarks Afro American Heritage Museum offers a displays of historical quilts and artifacts contributed by African Americans. The collection includes furniture made by slaves. You may find more information at : www. oaahm.org or by phone at (417) 880-1378.

Diamond: George Washington Carver Na-

tional Monument has preserved Carver’s childhood home. The site offers an education about Carver and his many contributions. You may find more information at: www.nps.gov/ gwca/index.htm or by phone at (417) 325-4151.

St. Louis: Old Courthouse is the site of many slaves’ lawsuits to obtain freedom including the famous Dred Scott trials that were appealed all the way to the Supreme Court. You may find more information at: www.nps. gov/jeff/index.htm or by phone at (314) 655-1700.

Scott Joplin Historic Site is an exhibit of Joplin’s life and time in St. Louis. Joplin later received national recoginition for his music. You may find more information at : http://mostatepark.com/park/scott-joplin or by phone at (314) 340-5790.

Kansas City: The Negro League Baseball Museum chronicles the history of African – American baseball.

You may find more information at : www.nlbm.com or by phone at (816) 221-1920.

American Jazz Museum offers exhibits that honor the art of jazz while educating about its legacy within African American culture.

You may find more information at : www.americanjazzmuseum.com or by phone at (816) 474-8463.

President Obama Takes Oath in White House Ceremony For Second Term President Barack Obama has now officially begun his second term as president. He, with his

Central High School Alumni Night February 12, 2013

The Central High School Boys Basketball Booster Club invites all former and current Central students to attend its annual Alumni Night celebration February 12, 2013.

All are encouraged to come out and cheer for the Bulldogs as they take the court against Nevada at the James Ball Gymnasium, also referred to as “The Pitt”. The Junior Varsity will tip off at 6:00 p.m. followed by the Varsity at approximately 7:30.

All alumni and former “Ballers” will be recognized.

A reception will follow the varsity game.

For more information, please contact Jeffrey Hardin at (913) 636-2397.

family, was sworn in on Sunday

by Chief Justice John Roberts in a small private ceremony in the White House. Roberts also led the ceremony during Obama's first inauguration in 2008.

Both Obama and Vice President Joe Biden was also sworn in again during a public inauguration ceremony on Monday, January 21, Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Subscribe To The Unite Publication Only $25. per year

Call: (417) 864-7444 If you want to experience something new —the before and after look of true beauty, come to:

Trena’s Exquisite Hair Salon

Monday - Saturday 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

1553 N. National Ave.

Call: (417) 849-6611

ASSISTANT COORDINATOR OF EDUCATIONAL FIELD EXPERIENCES in College of Education - Student Services.

Responsibilities include: assisting with the placement of teacher

candidates into practicum and student teaching settings with school districts, providing program support to K-12, Secondary Educa-

tion (9-12) and MAT (Master of Arts in Teaching) participants in the schools, supervising secondary teacher candidates, and providing support for supervisory staff, as needed.

For required qualifications and application procedures: https://jobs.

City of Springfield Mayor’s Commission on Human Rights and Community Relations

missouristate.edu or call (417) 836-4683. Pay Grade: 42. Salary: $30,146 - $34,000/annually. Successful candidates must be com-

mitted to working with diverse student and community populations.

Employment will require a criminal background check at University expense. AA/EOE.

“The MCHRCR works to promote understanding and respect among all citizens and provides the community recourse for discriminatory acts.”

840 Boonville Avenue Springfield, MO 65802 417-864-1038 www.springfieldmo.gov/boards/humanrights/index.html

Cultivating Dreams continued from page 1

University Library Science Assistant Professor. Dr. Jackson-Brown co-chairs the local Read-in committee with Springfield-Greene County Library’s Special Projects Coordinator Martha Love.

Local sponsors of the AARI are the Missouri State University Libraries, Drury University, Springfield-Greene County Library District, Springfield Public Schools, and the Springfield branch of the NAACP.

Missouri State University is accepting applications for

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February Unite Page 12

Mother Teresa or... continued from page 10

contribute to poor health by increasing personal stress, which takes its toll on the body.

Although the power to change others is typically out of reach, we can always seek change for ourselves. If things aren't going well with relationships at work and/or at home, make sure the saintly person you thought you were is not being experienced more like an ancient barbarian by others.

Business Loans continued from page 6

or a guiding hand that can help you through the application process, don’t feel that you have to

go it alone. Local Small Business Development Centers, Women’s Business Centers, and SCORE (a mentoring organization for small businesses) can help you through the process. Find one of these groups in your community.

ROAD WORK NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS Bids will be received by the Commission until 11:00 o'clock a.m. (prevailing local time) on 2/22/2013 for the project(s) listed below.

Electronic bids must be submitted through the BidExpress website. Paper bids, not exceeding a monetary value of $250,000, shall be addressed to and received by: Secretary to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission Attention: Bid/Bid Bond 105 West Capitol Avenue Jefferson City, Missouri The proposed work includes: Job J8P2236, Route 744, Greene County: ADA & signal improvements from Route 13

to Glenstone Ave. in Springfield, the total length of the improvement being 2.65 miles.

Job J8P2280B, Business Loop 44, Greene County: ADA Improvements from Evergreen St. to St. Louis St. in Springfield, the total length of the improvement being 2.53 miles.

Job J8P3008B, Route 60, Greene County: ADA improvements from Route P to Hines St. in Republic, the total length of the improvement being 1.32 miles. Combination bids will be Required on the Jobs listed Special Needs: If you have special needs addressed by the Americans with Disabilities Act, please notify Pamela Harlan, Secretary to the Commission, at (573) 751-2824 or through Missouri Relay System, TDD 1-800735-2966.

The wage rates applicable to this project have been predetermined as required by law and are set forth in the Bidding documents.

When federal wage rates are applicable and included, this contract is subject to the "Work Hours Act of 1962," (P.L. 87-581, 76 State.

357) and implementing regulations.

By virtue of statutory authority, preference shall be given on other than Federal Aid Projects, to materials, products, supplies, provisions, and other articles, produced, manufactured, made or grown within the state of Missouri, where same are of a suit-

able character and can be obtained at reasonable market prices in the state and are of a quality suited to the purpose intended and can be secured without additional cost over foreign products or products of other states.

The Commission hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively insure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, minority business enterprises will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, ancestry, or national origin in consideration for an award.

Plans and specifications may be inspected in the offices of the Commission at Jefferson City, or the District Office at Springfield, Missouri. Plans may also be viewed on the Internet at http://modot.indoxservices.com/.

Complete instructions to bidders may be obtained at the Jefferson City office. All questions concerning the bid document preparation shall be directed to the Central Office – Design Division at (573) 751-2876.

Bids must be on forms provided at http:// modot.indoxservices.com/.

The right is reserved to reject any or all bids. THE MISSOURI HIGHWAYS AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION Chief Engineer

Share What You Love About The Unite Publication With Your Friends & Family.

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February 2013 Volume 23/ Number 2 • A Monthly Publication by Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc •

www.unitenewsonline.org

Building Empowering Connections In Our Diverse Community

Historical Struggle, Sacrifices, and Victories President Obama Takes Oath in White House Ceremony For 2nd Term See story on page 2

Minorities in Business Announces Third Annual Heritage Awards See details on page 5

Have the Unite Publication delivered to your home or office for only $25. per year. Call: (417) 864-7444

UNITE.

NewsOnline

Building Empowering Connections In Our Diverse Community

UNITE.

Celebrate Black History Month by attending local events!

New CD Release from national recording artist Brenda McClintock See details on page 2

by Mia Jackson Huskisson Unite Contributing Writer February is Black History Month and a great time to reflect on the historical struggle, sacrifices, and victories of the pioneers who have gone before us. This month is a great time to commemorate the extraordinary contributions made by African Americans.

You might ask why we should celebrate Black History Month? We celebrate Black History Month because it offers a special time to remember and take pride in our heritage.

This is a time to remember who

we are as a people, where we embraced our history we must have come from, and how caembrace it. Secondly, we must pable we are of so much more. educate the next generation.

Marcus Garvey said, “A Finally, we must be inspired by people without what has proven knowledge of to be possible.

We celebrate Black their past history, For within us, lies History Month because origin, and culthe tenacity of it offers a special time to Rosa Parks, the ture is like a tree remember and take pride passion of Martin without roots.” in our heritage.

The obserLuther King, and vance of Black the ingenious History Month ability of George began in 1926 by historical Washington Carver. educator Carter G. Woodson.

February is a great time Black History Month has been to explore some of Missouri’s observed in the United States historical sites that offer a wide since 1976. range of Black History archives Although society has not Continued on page 2

“Cultivating Your Dreams: Celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Dream” SPRINGFIELD, MO.—“Cultivating Your Dreams: Celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Dream” will be presented as part of the 24th National African American Read-In (AARI) in Springfield. The program will take place at the Library Station, 2535 North Kansas Expressway, on Monday, February 25, at 7:00 pm.

Mark Dixon will recite Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s acclaimed “I have a dream”

speech. Area singers will perform a selection of Negro spirituals. Several young people will speak briefly about how they are achieving their dreams.

Some of the speakers include KSPR-33 reporter Sheena Elzie and NAACP Martin Luther King contest essay writers.

The national AARI coincides with Black History Month and is sponsored by the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English (http://

www.ncte.org/action/aari).

The Springfield event is free and open to the public. Free parking is available and refreshments will be served.

“The city-wide celebration of the AARI in Springfield has been taking place each February since 2010 with a variety of programs celebrating AfricanAmerican literature, art, and music,” said Dr. Grace JacksonBrown, Missouri State Continued on page 2