Unite Feb 2014

February Unite Page 12

February 2014 Volume 24/ Number 2 • A Monthly Publication by Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc •

www.unitenewsonline.org

UNITE.

See MSU Black History Month Calendar on Page 5

Building Empowering Connections In Our Diverse Community

Raisin' Cane: A Harlem Renaisance Odyssey Starring Jasmine Guy And The Avery Sharpe Trio Feb 4 At Hammons Hall

Celebrating Black History Month 2014 Point Of View: American Promise

Springfield, MO— Tuesday, February 4, 2014, 7:30 p.m. All seats: $23 at Hammons Hall, 525 John Q. Hammons Pkwy. The American Black community at the start of the 20th continued on page 10

Bridge Springfield: Brother to Brother Male Development Program Launches February 1 See story on page 5

Springfield, MO—Point Of View: American Promise on Ozark Public Television February 3, 9 p.m. American Promise is an intimate and provocative account, recorded over 12 years, of the experiences of two middle-class African-American boys who entered a very prestigious--and historically white--private school on Manhattan's Upper East Side. The Dalton School had made a commitment to recruit students of color, and five-yearold best friends Idris Brewster and Oluwaseun (Seun) Summers of Brooklyn were two of the gifted children who were admitted. The boys were placed in a demanding environment that

provided new opportunities and challenges, if little reflection of their cultural identities. Idris' parents, Joe, a Harvard- and Stanford-trained continued on page 7

Dress Up In 1920s Harlem Renaissance Style At The Carnegie Branch Library

at Springfield Little Theatre

See story on page 10

Attend the Meet and Greet Celebration, at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1, at the Midtown Carnegie Branch Library. Everyone is invited to enjoy living history, food samples

catered by Crosstown Barbecue and dress reminiscent of the Civic Club gatherings of the 1920s Harlem renaissance. Guests include MSU Briana Simmons.

4th Annual Minorities In Business Heritage Awards Set For February 18 Springfield, MO— Five of Springfield’s finest citizens will be honored in four award categories for their contributions to the greater Springfield community at the upcoming 4th Annual Minorities In Business (MIB) Heritage Awards. 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. Bishop David Knox Jr., Senior Pastor at Deliverance Temple Ministries will receive the Achievement Award for his many years of volunteerism, community counseling and leadership in the greater Springfield community. Jennie and Arthur Turner, owners of the Rib Shack will receive the Small Business of continued on page 2

The Barber of Seville

Dr. Richard Todd Payne

See story on page 10

February Unite Page 11

February Unite Page 2

Two Great Diversity Opportunities for Community Participation – Community Climate Study and Greater Springfield Race and Faith Collaborative by Ken Coopwood, Sr., Ph.D. Unite Contributing Writer

look at who lives around us, a look into how people feel about one another; a look at how people are treated; and a report Awareness of large-scale hapabout how things can get betpenings in our commuter… or worse. It’s real nity is very important research. That means for those of us who that it must be approved don’t seem to get by a university research many chances to have board before you are a say in what happens allowed to participate in around the commuit. The research board’s nity. The Division for job is to make sure that Diversity and Inclu"Dr Coop" you can participate sion and its partners freely. It’s kinda like having a are providing two ways to have big brother or sister out there your say, and look for results of to ensure that you can get to your opinion. the candy store without being The first way is a climate bullied for half your money to study. “What is that?” You get there. It’s a chance to say ask. Well, here’s the answer. A what’s on your mind and have climate study is a review of our your thoughts multiplied by community’s history; a fresh

RAISIN’ CANE:

A HARLEM RENAISSANCE ODYSSEY starring Jasmine Guy and The Avery Sharpe Trio

others who feel the same way. It’s for you, because of you, and we need everyone to participate. That said; here is what you need to do to participate. Go to http://diversity.missouristate.edu/ClimateStudy. htm and click on the Questions? Comments? button. You then indicate that you are a community person and type in your comment. It’s that simple, but more powerful than just a simple thought. The other opportunity for participation is the Greater Springfield Race and Faith Collaborative. This Collaborative was sparked after a Race Exhibit was placed inside the Discovery Center in the summer of 2012. More than 350 people visited the Exhibit and we wanted to keep people thinking about it long after it was gone. A 50th anniversary of the MLK “I Have A Dream Speech” event started a year-long campaign to keep people thinking. We’ve been going strong since August, 2013, and it’s time to join us! Go to www.raceandfaith.

com and check out the website. You will see that you’ve already missed the first quarter – Self Reflection… and you’re forgiven. But I still encourage you to watch the video and take the personal challenge you’ll find there. Then, look into information about the current quarter of activity – Family and Friends. This quarter will challenge you with specific questions about how you treat and want to be treated by others. Most importantly, it gives you something to do, and somewhere to go do it. Look for GSRFC events and meetings. Join sub-committees for the next two quarters. Again, the climate study or the Collaborative are not simply feel-good exercises. They are something to do and ways to change our community by becoming the type of citizen you believe everyone should be. Let’s integrate, collaborate and elevate... together! Ken Coopwood, Sr., Ph.D. – “Dr. Coop” Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion at Missouri State University

Heritage Awards

Calvin Allen, Executive Director of the Springfield Community Center is receiving the Community Service Award. Calvin is being recognized for his many years of devoted service to the disadvantaged youth in the greater Springfield community. The honorees will be recognized at an awards banquet on Tuesday, February 18th at the DoubleTree Hotel, 2431 North Glenstone, Springfield. The Social Hour will begin at 5:30 p.m. and dinner will be served at 6:45 p.m. Tickets are available from Nora England at 417-861-7568.

continued from page 1

February 4 | Tuesday 7:30pm | Tickets $23 Actress/singer/dancer Jasmine Guy and The Avery Sharpe Trio celebrate the legendary voices of the Harlem Renaissance - Langston Hughes, Countee Cullen, Zora Neale Hurston, W.E.B DuBois and many others - $23 through text, song, music, movement and imagery...in a show that is a window on a critical point in American history.

417–836–7678 | GROUP SALES 417–836–8468

the Year award. Their business over the last 7 years has evolved from a food truck to an established presence on East Chestnut Expressway. Lola Butcher, a Health Care Policy Writer and active community volunteer is receiving the Advocacy Award. Lola is being recognized for her untiring and extensive activities with community and regional advocacy initiatives and volunteer activities with advocacy organizations.

The Library

continued from page 3 grades K-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8, 9-10 and 11-12. Top winners in each category will receive a $20 gift certificate from Between Friends Gift Shops and first-place winning designs will be printed on color bookmarks to be distributed at libraries and community events. Winning entries and runnersup will also be featured on KidsSpace at thelibrary.org/kids or on TeenThing at thelibrary. org/teens. Winners will also be announced at an awards reception at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 17, in the Library Center auditorium, 4653 S. Campbell Ave. ••• Throughout February, don’t miss the art exhibit at the Midtown Carnegie Branch Library, 397 E. Central St., devoted to “Celebrating the Art of AfricanAmerican Culture.” The exhibit will be on display in the library’s “stairway gallery.” ••• The Library District is honored to serve on Springfield’s African American Read-In Committee, and on Feb. 24 the month-long celebration wraps up at the Library Station with a great program. From 7-8:30 p.m. at the library at 2535 N. Kansas Expressway, AARI will host music by the Pipkin Middle School Choir. Springfield youth will present a skit based on the theme, “What would Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., do?” Then Lyle Foster, a Springfield businessman and Missouri State University instructor, will give a dramatic reading of “Letter from the Birmingham Jail” written by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. It is an open letter that King wrote on April 16, 1963, defending the

strategy of nonviolent resistance to racism. In it he argued that people have a moral responsibility to break unjust laws. The letter became a text for the American Civil Rights movement in the early 60s. Kathleen O’Dell is community relations director of the Springfield-Greene County Library District. She can be reached at kathleeno@thelibrary.org.

Every First Tuesday of the Month

Minorities In Business monthly networking meeting

What: Guest Speaker, Abram “Abe” McGull, II, Assistant United States Attorney Topic: "Crimes That Are Frequently Perpetrated Against Businesses" 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

Fades Barber Shop Specializing in Fades and other popular styles. 812 S. Glenstone Ave Call to schedule an appointment or come by. Walk-ins are welcome.

(417)832-8242

6th Annual Women’s Entrepreneurship Symposium: Reinvention...

Saturday, February 8, 2014 Springfield, MO—Whether you own an established business or you are exploring starting a business, WES is a Saturday morning you will not want to miss. We have put together a dynamic program of key note speakers and breakout sessions, most centering around the theme of reinvention, with some nuts and bolts advice thrown in for good measure. The event is $25, which includes breakfast and lunch. Registration remains open until the day of the event. Register online at www.drury.edu/ejc/wes.

Gibson Chapel Presbyterian Church Fish Fr y 536 E. Tampa Saturday, February 8th, 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. 417-865-1410

For $8.00 Meal Includes: Catfish, Spaghetti, Slaw, Cornbread Dessert & Drink Everyone Welcome!

Subscribe To The Unite Publication Only $25. per year

Call: (417) 864-7444

Good News, Great Music & Warm People 2101 W. Chestnut Expwy. Springfield, MO 65802 (417) 865-4338

Service Times: Sunday 10:30 a.m. & Wednesday 6:30 p.m.

February Unite Page 10

February Unite Page 3

IN THIS ISSUE

EntertainmentNews Continued

Springfield Little Theatre presents To Kill A Mockingbird

Ain’t Misbehavin At Springfield Contemporary Theatre Feb-Mar In February, the joint is jumpin' as Springfield Contemporary Theatre takes misbehavin' to a whole new level with the music of Fats Waller. Ain't Misbehavin' will feature Camille Clossum, Johnnie Angelia King, Avilla Martin, Sabrina Trabue and Tony Wheeler. Ain't Misbehavin' will play February 14-15, 20-21, 28-March 1, 2014 at 7:30 PM as well as February 16, 23 & March 2 at 2:00 PM. Reserved seat ticketing is available for all performances are now on sale. Tickets are priced $25 for Adults and $22 for Seniors (55 and over) & Students. Opening Weekend tickets will be discounted to $20. Group rates are available. Reservations can be made in person at the Springfield Contemporary Theatre Box Office or by calling 417-8318001.

Community News

February 28 – March 9, 2014 Set in Alabama during the Great Depression, Atticus Finch, an extremely principled attorney and the widowed father of Scout and Jem, is appointed to defend a black man, Tom Robinson, accused of raping a white woman. Framed for a crime he didn’t commit, a guilty verdict from an all-white jury is a foregone conclusion. Fighting against ignorance and prejudice, we follow the Finch family and their friends as they help one courageous man’s fight for the truth. To purchase tickets, please call the box office at (417)869-1334

Enter The 4th Annual Design-A-Bookmark Contest For Kids And Teens At The Library

Dr. Richard Todd Payne apothecary and barber, to help him free his beloved from the clutches of Dr. Bartolo. The Barber of Seville stars Katelyn Lee, Vigthor Zophoniasson, Jeff Carney, Dr. Richard Todd Payne, and Dr. Chris Thompson as Figaro. Tickets are available from the Gillioz Box Office at 417-863-9491 or www.gillioz.org/sro-the-barberof-seville. Prices range from $12 to $37. For more information, call SRO at 417-863-1960.

Raisin' Cane

continued from page 1 century had very few outlets and avenues for its poets, musicians, novelists, artists, and actors. But in 1918, as the first great World War concluded and thousands of African-American soldiers returned home victorious, this mountain of artistic expression was ready to explode. The words and thoughts of Langston Hughes, Countee Cullen, Zora Neale Hurston, W.E.B. Du Bois and many others, became the voice of the Harlem Renaissance – a new generation of AfricanAmericans, looking forward but still struggling with the past and present. Raisin’ Cane is a window on a critical point in American history, celebrating and honoring the legendary voices of the Harlem Renaissance through text, song, music, movement, and imagery.

Do you have an artistic child or teen in your house? Encourage him or her to enter the Library’s 4th annual Designa-Bookmark Contest for kids and teens. Deadline for entries is March 15, and entry forms can be picked up and dropped off at any branch library or the Mobile Library. We encourage young artists to let books, literature and libraries inspire them to design a bookmark in a serious or fanciful way. Three winners and three runners-up will be selected in each category: continued on page 11

Two Great Diversity Opportunities for Community Participation by Ken Coopwood, Sr., Ph.D.

4

by Kathleen O’Dell , Springfield-Greene County Library District

The Barber of Seville

The Springfield Regional Opera, a Lyric Theatre Company, presents Gioacchino Rossini’s The Barber of Seville on Friday, February 21 at 7:30 and Sunday, February 23 at 2:00 at the Gillioz Theater. SRO’s Englishlanguage production is a lively comedic romp set in the heart of the 1960s. The young Count Almaviva falls in love with Rosina, the ward of greedy Dr. Bartolo. Wanting to win her affection, Almaviva enlists the aid of Figaro,

2

Excerpts from winning MLK Essay Contest for 2014 by Gwen Marshall

The Money Section

6 8

Utilizing Local Business Associations to Enhance Your Organization’s Visibility by Vincent H. Lyons

UNITE. Volume 24, Number 2 Publisher Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc. Managing Editor Samuel G. Knox Contributing Writers Mark A. Dixon Lyle Foster Vincent H. Lyons Kim Jones Gwen Marshall Kathleen O'Dell Vera Jane Goodin Schultz Photography David N. Knox John Schultz

Lifestyle & Entertainment News

Movie Review —“Commentary” by Lyle Foster

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

monthly newspaper published by

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

Distribution of Unite. is by free

circulation at various locations.

However, request for home delivery by mail may be directed to Unite. P. O. Box 1745, Springfield,

Missouri 65801 and accompanied

by $25. for one year’s postage and handling.

Those wishing to make a

contribution or become a monthly sponsor should direct corre-

spondence to the same address.

City Employment Link Chase Card Services More than a Job…a Career. Open positions in our Springfield, MO Center. Join an organization recognized as one of the World’s Most Admired Companies by Fortune Magazine. Now Available: • Customer Service Advisors • Collections • Team Manager & Team Leader Apply today. Visit us online at careers.jpmorganchase.com. Keyword: SpringfieldMO

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.

Readers comments and ques-

tions are welcomed. The opinions expressed in these pages do not necessarily reflect the views of

Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc.

“The Unite Publication in accept-

ing advertising in this publication,

makes no independent investigation concerning the services of products

advertised and neither endorses nor recommends the same and

assumes no liability therefore.”

For further information, you

can contact us at (417) 864-7444.

Email: unitepublication@yahoo.com

February Unite Page 4

February Unite Page 9

CommunitySection

12 Years A Slave continued from page 8

Excerpts from winning MLK Essay Contest for 2014 by Gwen Marshall, Unite Contributing Writer

that people can be put into poverty, and as we can see there are many situations that people live Chasity Hyman, 8th gradin poverty without â&#x20AC;&#x153;choosingâ&#x20AC;? er at Pipkin Middle to. Dr. Martin Luther School says: King did not only fight â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are many for different races, he ways that cause povfought the battle of erty and economic poverty. We can hope hardships: being born that one day poverty into poverty, a crisis will be ended all over change in family, or the world and Martin living in a community Luther Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision Gwen Marshall with no resources. will then be fulfilled.â&#x20AC;? Living in poverty is Jalesa Br yant, 7th grader at hard. Many people who live in Pipkin Middle School, told her poverty are looked down upon by others. There are many ways own personal account of grandma,

mom, brother, sister and herself moving from Texas to Springfield in 2008, to live with a relative until they could rebuild their lives. Her essay is titled â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Missouri Hotel: Helping myself and othersâ&#x20AC;?. She interviews these same people for her essay, which describes their situation after staying for over a year with their relatives: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We got home from school and all our stuff was packed up. Grandma took us to the Missouri Hotel and my siblings and I were worried that we were going to have to sleep in our truck. We waited in the lobby to see if they had a place for us. About 30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 45 minutes later they called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ms. Bryant â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you will be staying on the 5th floor. â&#x20AC;&#x153; We all screamed YAY. Time passed. They had fun programs like Bingo nights or you could paint or go to the library and get books. They also serve three meals a day and snacks. We even got to invite friends to stay over on the weekends. Now it is the year of 2013 and I live in a 4 bedroom house with the same people that I love and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m still with an â&#x20AC;&#x153;affordable housingâ&#x20AC;? program. So that was my personal story on how one of the major programs in Springfield, Missouri helped me and my family.â&#x20AC;?

Izzy Eiserman, a 7th grader at Pipkin Middle School shows her pride in Springfieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s efforts to fulfill the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. legacy: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Out of the 2.2 billion children in the world, 21,000 of them will die today from a cause that could be prevented. But some of the programs right here is trying to change that. Several like Child Advocacy Center, Rare Breed, The Kitchen, CASA and others are helping children right here in Springfield. Even though weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not a third-world country, there is still poverty all around us. â&#x20AC;Ś it seems we have lots of programs here in our town that are trying to raise the youth of tomorrow out of poverty and into a position where they can succeed. But most importantly, I feel this ties in to memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.. When I asked Beth Atchison (Development director of CASA) if she felt inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., she said â&#x20AC;&#x153;We all should be. He encouraged us to look beyond ourselves and help our community as a whole.â&#x20AC;? And I feel thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what all of these organizations are doing.â&#x20AC;?

Come lend your voice to our University!

Missouri State University is recruiting diverse faculty and staff for a variety of positions. We are committed to inclusive excellence across campus, and we have a unique public affairs mission that encourages cultural competency, community engagement and ethical leadership. We believe diversity is good for our students, our community and our University. Our most important job is to give students an enriching education, complete with the tools for career success. Our faculty and staff must be racially, ethnically, culturally and socioeconomically diverse to help our students understand and appreciate different viewpoints, preparing them to lead the future.

Jalesa Bryant and Ann Steinberg

We act on our beliefs. Let us welcome you to our campus. Come see for yourself!

Search our vacancies to learn how you can join us.

www.missouristate.edu/careers Employment will require a criminal background check at University expense Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Institution

Chasity Hyman and Gwen Marshall

Gwen Marshall and Izzy Eiserman

2013 and that apparently was 12 Years a Slave. So a year that had some excellent films and really showcased some painful realities of the black experience didn't live up to all of the expectations of the award season. But still the films themselves were powerful and well done and advanced the narrative significantly. In the end 12 Years a Slave was put into a tie position with the ever popular Gravity and not nominated for as many categories as some predicted but with the Golden Globes proved it was a film to be reckoned with in the US and in the international market. It is still pretty cool that Springfield's own Brad Pitt was in it and

Support The Heritage continued from page 8

slap your pappy good. Yes....this is heritage month and we can think of all kinds of things we used to say when the food made you want to jump on top of the table. Well I don't mind saying like many folks I have tried to migrate from the pork but we will keep it real this month I went back to the roots and got some ham hocks and made the New Year's black eyed peas for starters. And the black eyed peas were killer....I usually layer my seasonings to insure maximum flavor and I did the old school overnight soak of my peas. I wasn't feeling the quick short cut method. The peas were so good that I then made red beans and rice just a few days later and took those to another level I'm not sharing this to make you hungry but to say in preparation for this month I also did a history search

part of the production. Some felt the movie would be limited by the brutality depicted and I had a few friends tell me that they didn't want their teenagers to see it because it was fairly graphic. I'm pretty patient but I couldn't be on this one. How can slavery be depicted without it being brutal? 12 Years a Slave was the and is the riveting film of 2013 and I hope everyone sees it and takes as many as their car can hold with them because it is necessary and it is also an incredible film. Now let's hope 2014 will be another strong and positive year for films that show and depict the African-American experience and if they are outstanding they will not be subjected to a quota system. Please support Black History Month!!!! for the origins of these dishes to learn more about the ancestors. It may sound crazy but it gave me more insight and appreciation for the dishes of my childhood that I still love and celebrate. And it is fun to try out new seasonings to experiment just a bit and see what the results are.....I know most folks know the obvious on the typical seasonings for these type of comfort foods but I have been using sea salt to cut down on the usual table salt. I also like to use bay leaves and depending on how the spirit leads (lol) be as sparse or as generous as I choose and I have been feeling the cajun seasoning for some different twists of late too. What I simply encouraging is mixing up some of our traditional dishes with healthier seasonings and new and different ones I usually use turkey wings for my meat seasoning instead of the ham hocks. Another great dish that can use some of the same seasoning mix

and is a true favorite of the heritage as well as full of nutrition is just simply greens. In Springfield people like to cook collard greens a lot but growing up in Virginia we were partakers of every possible type of green plus the roadside variety. The last mention is a test to see if you know what that means?! But whether its collards, turnips or kale or a combination this is a great month to spoil your family with these traditional bounties. One of the great things about traditional soul food dishes is that they can make a great vegetarian meal for all us who maybe cutting down on meat intake.....a meal of greens, yams, mac and cheese and a good house salad can be surprisingly tasteful and you may find yourself not missing the meat at all and maybe getting your family to start a new tradition.....every week or every other week. This is also a great month to visit Rib Shack, Crosstown, Billy Sims and some of the other local haunts that serve it up like we remember and thank them for keeping the traditions going. I am also interested in knowing what your absolute favorite soul

food is.....ok....I just heard someone say pig feet!!!! Okay to each his own.....I am not a hater..... this month we are celebrating all things soul and ethnic......but write me or let me know when you see me what dish you like to cook and any family secrets that you use to add your special touch. So let's celebrate the extraordinary dishes of African and Caribbean American heritage and let's also try to share with our children and those who may be curious so they also can learn and know and carry the traditions for the next generation. Have a great month!!!!

Advertise In The Unite Publication

The most effective choice when you need to reach Springfield's diverse community.

Call: (417) 864-7444

An Evening in Italy &EBRUARY s 0 - *UANITA + (AMMONS (ALL s #LASSICAL #ONCERT Stravinsky â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Pulcinella Suite Scarlatti n #ONCERTO 'ROSSO .O IN ! MAJOR Mendelssohn n 3YMPHONY .O IN ! MAJOR Italian Celebrate your date night at our romantic Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s concert inspired by the art and beauty of Italy. We start with the suite from Stravinskyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pulcinella, a charming ballet based on characters from Italyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Comedia dellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;arte. Full of romantic intrigue and foibles, it ends happily in the marriage of the lovers. We then play Italian Baroque master Scarlattiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first Concerto Grosso, and conclude with Mendelssohnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Italian Symphony, an exuberant, sunny tribute to the beauty of the Italian landscape. Concert Sponsors

Brian Stone Guest Conductor

4ICKETS s )NFO SPRINGFIELDMOSYMPHONY ORG

February Unite Page 8

February Unite Page 5

LifeStyle&EntertainmentNews Movie Review: “Commentary” by Lyle Foster Unite Contributing Writer

About Last Night....and is rated R......so maybe the adults can go......! The Year of Entertainment This month's column is a bit and Some Substance..... more of a commentary since Before we say anything else this is Black History month but we must give props to Ride we will get to that in a moment. Along with Kevin Hart and Ice A movie that I thoroughly Cube......Have you ever thought enjoyed although it didn't have about how someone an African-American could be taken sericast but certainly was ously with a name like about cultural enrichthat? Well obviously ment was 47 Ronin. it is working for him Unfortunately it has and it is a wonder he earned the unofficial ain't melting because title of Biggest flop of the movie is hot. It the year (2013) . Well Lyle Foster smashed the January when a movie cost over box office sales record 200 million to make it and has dominated the box is supposed to pay for itself and office by being no. 1 two weeks then make huge sums of money in a row. It is of course a buddy and that it is not doing. It is cop movie filled with jokes and going to take DVD and everythen most jokes. And just case thing else to get some formats you haven't been following to get the return. I am not Kevin has been burning it up going to try to explain what hurt the past year and shows no sign it but I will say I thoroughly of slowing down. His humor enjoyed it. The story or the 47 I can't always get down with Ronin is engaging and with what but I def respect the craft. And we are experiencing it is not all Kevin and some of the crew bad to hear of a story of honor are in a new film coming out and valor for a change. Kenau on Valentine's day simply titled Reeves does a great job in his

by Lyle Foster Unite Contributing Writer Well, we know what time of year this is and it is always fun to recall and encourage our amazing culinary heritage during Black History Month or AfricanAmerican Heritage Month.... whatever your preference is. Several times in the last month I

role as the want to be Samurai warrior. And I am very sincere when I say the story is a beautiful one and has all of the elements a good story is supposed to have. But the cinematography is extraordinary...if you are into natural beauty and panorama you can go see it just for that alone. If you are into fashion the costumes are beyond beautful. I wanted to point this film out because you may miss it and it does take a few minutes to watch. The commentary is really around 20th Century Fox 2013 the results of the award season. You may or may not know that 2013 was largely regarded to be the year of the Black film but in the end it did not turn out to be that in terms of the films that got acknowledged with the big awards and nominations. A number of people have been disappointed by

this but as the young folks say.... it is what it is.....! I hope this audience has moved beyond needing a film critic to decide what speaks to you and what is good or not. Fruitvale Station which was considered to be the early favorite in the year for the best picture and best actor nods and everything else peaked early and was not mentioned for anything. This gives further credence to the long held notion that films need to peak at the right time to enhance their chances for award success. The much acclaimed Butler was also shut out despite strong performances by Oprah Winfrey and Forest Whitaker. This has led some people to complain that the ruling elite of Hollywood only had room for one strong black film in

continued on page 9

Food Review: Support the Heritage! have had to explain what chitterlings are and it never ceases to amaze me really how many people actually don't know. When is the last time that you got to try some good southern chitterlings? And I totally get it if you haven't recently of course!!! But this month is an excellent time to celebrate the foods and flavors of this heritage. And with the

recent polar vortex, snow and winds howling from the northwest there are ample opportunities to make and eat some good comforting soul food. So this month's column is simple and to the point.....let's celebrate the amazing cuisines of AfricanAmericans by supporting local spots that are turning it out every day and taking the time

to stir up the pots at home and make sure our children know the dishes that have survived for generations. Personally I have been on a comfort tear as ammunition and fortification from the character building weather of late by making soups and a variety of bean dishes at home. And I don't mind saying they were continued on page 9

Chili Supper and Silent Auction for Central High School Kilites Feb 21 Springfield, MO—The Central High School Kilites and the Kiltie Parent Club will be hosting a chili supper and silent auction on Friday, February 21 in the Central Commons area from 6-8 p.m. The Kilties are fundraising for their March 2014 performance at Walt Disney World in Orlando, FL. The cost is $ 5 for all you can eat chili and includes chips and a beverage. For more information contact Kiltie Sponsor, Jessica Freeman at 417-523-9783.

Missouri State University 2014 African American Heritage Month Calendar February 3 - 7:30 pm African American Read-In “Eyes on the Prize – Fighting Back 1957-1962” Meyer Library Room 101 February 4 - 7:30 pm “Raisin’ Cane: A Harlem Renaissance Odyssey” Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts Cost: $23.00 February 7 - 7:00 pm First Friday with African American Histor y Trivia Q’Enoteca: 308 W. Commercial Street Cost: $5.00 February 10 - 10:00 am African American Read-In

Bridge Springfield:Brother to Brother Male Development Program Launches Feb 1 Springfield, MO— Diversity MODES invites Springfield community leaders and potential community supporters to attend the launch of the Bridge Springfield – Brother to Brother Male Development Program, Saturday, February 1, 2014 from 9:00 to 11:00 A.M. at the BartleyDecatur Neighborhood Center, Inc. located at 918 E. Calhoun, Springfield, MO. Diversity MODES a Springfield Area Higher Education Diversity Consortium is a partnership including Missouri State University, Ozark Technical Community College, Drury University, Evangel University, Southwest Baptist University. Bridge Springfield – Brother to Brother Male Development Program is designed to provide

Skype Inter view with Congressman John Lewis Library Station, 2535 N Kansas February 11 - 7:00 pm SAC Present STEP AFRIKA! – The first professional company in the world dedicated to the tradition of stepping. PSU Theater February 19 - 7:00 pm Missouri State Recruitment Team Discussion PSU Room 313 February 20 - 11:00 am to 1:30 PM African American Lunch Menu , PSU Union Club Cost: $7.00 February 24 - 7:00 pm AA Read-In, “What would Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. do?” Library Station, 2535 N Kansas

a system of support for high school and college young men utilizing academic and community resources to empower them to improve eligibility, enrollment and academic retention in high school and in college. Dr. Tyrone Bledsoe, founder and current CEO-President of the Student African American Brotherhood (SAAB) will be the guest speaker. SAAB is a national organization with over 260 chapters in 40 states where 86% of the Brother to Brother (B2B) student members graduate from college compared to a national average of 42% among African American men not in this program. For more information please contact Francine Pratt at fpratt@missouristate.edu or fpratt@drury.edu

Apply For the Clifton Moore, Jr. Minority Memorial Scholarship Springfield, MO —Clifton Moore Scholarship applications are now being accepted for the 2014-2015 Clifton Moore, Jr. Minority Memorial Scholarship. Applicants must be a graduating senior from a high school in Springfield, MO. and must have a 3.0 grade point average. An official transcript, letters of reference and an essay are also required. Go to www. parkdayreunion.com to get the official list of requirements and the application form. Application deadline is March 3, 2014.

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 417.890.8501 Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) www.score.org 417.837.2619 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 Utilizing Local Business Associations to Enhance Your Organization’s Visibility business associates from in and outside their industry to aid in their initiatives. Now, for you as a small business owner, the level As one enters the world of of expectation is not for business, one thing you as Ford did to win that I learned over the lifelong customers, like years is that the most myself. important thing is Your pathway to visibeing visible. The old bility and gaining repeat cliché of out of sight customers are derived out of mind is applifrom joining your local cable to businesses as business organizations well. Advertising via. Vincent H. Lyons and chamber of cominternet, television, and merce and be an active particibillboards are all needed to gain visibility of your product/service pant. This is what I call, a grassroots business development offerings to future customers, but that is not enough. Business- campaign. In doing this, you are aligning your organization es need to be an active player in up with likeminded people with the community that their comthe same goals in mind. These pany resides in. All Fortune 500 organizations that I mentioned companies have realized this main purpose is to support the need to be on a personal level businesses in the community with those that are in the comand link them to resources that munities that their companies will aid in their success. This reside in and to invest heavily alignment will serve as a learninto those communities, overing experience as well as an avtime this act has been coined as, enue to increase your business’s “corporate responsibility”. visibility within the marketplace You might ask, “Why should that you serve through the use I invest in the communities?” of their network. “What is the return on the inFrom my experiences in the vestment (ROI)?” This is simple, Greater Springfield, Missouri think Ford Motor Company. area, I had the pleasure to meet From the company’s incepwith two organizations that cater tion-to-now, Ford has basically to the business community at built the Metro Detroit region large to push their core objecin terms of housing, culture, tives. The organizations are Mientertainment, associations, and norities in Business (MIB) and infrastructure. With that investthe Springfield Area Chamber of ment, Ford has an overwhelmCommerce. MIB are advocates ing number of die-hard customfor minority business owners ers that will stand by the Ford in the southwest Missouri area. brand through rain, sleet, and MIB provides their members mechanical issues. As well as, a with networking opportunities, long line of trusted and vetted By Vincent Harris Lyons Unite Contributing Writer

business seminars, and support those businesses that may need counsel. The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce is an organization that was incepted 1919 with a mission to serve as the principal advocate for business in partnership with the community, support and assist existing businesses, act as the primary catalyst in promoting the economic health of the Springfield area, stimulating jobs and improving the quality of life. The benefits of the chamber are the following: social networking, new member listing, ribbon cuttings, business directory, business spotlight, media lists, and leads lists. From the organizations, which I listed for the Greater Springfield area. If one utilized them correctly and make the needed connections the relationship will grow into a win-win situation for both the organization and the member. The key to success in this relationship is to be a proactively engaged member. This means that you must have regular attendance, be willing to give as well as receive, to engage in meaningful testimonies of your business (good and bad), and to support the organization’s objective. In being proactively engaged, with those unique organizations that were created to aid in your success you will obtain the needed visibility, relationships, and respect of your community to be the next Ford Motor Company. continued on page 7

Enhance Your Visibility continued from page 6

Mind Snack: For you business owners that have not became members of business associations or the local chamber, don’t you think it is time join? A slogan comes to my mind now, ”Think Ford First!”

American Promise continued from page 1

psychiatrist, and Michèle, a Columbia Law School graduate and filmmaker, decided to film the boys' progress starting in 1999. They and members of the large Summers family soon found themselves struggling not only with kids' typical growing pains

and the kinds of racial issues one might expect, but also with surprising class, gender and generational gaps. American Promise, which traces the boys' journey from kindergarten through high school graduation, finds the greatest challenge for the families--and perhaps the country--is to close the black male educational achievement gap, which has been called "the civil rights crusade of the 21st century." "All American families want to give their children the opportunity to succeed. But the truth is, opportunity is just the first step, particularly for families raising black boys," says co-director and co-producer Michèle Stephenson. "We hope American Promise shines a light on these issues."

February Unite Page 7

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

Lynette Adams, Worthy Matron Missouri Jurisdiction PHA Order Of Eastern Star Greater Truth Chapter #88 P.O. Box 8804 Springfield, MO 65801 417-866-6878

American Legion Post Norvel Stafford 1339 E. Division St Springfield, MO 65803 417-862-9123

Calvin L. Allen, Exec. Director Springfield Community Center- Family Achievement Academy 911 E. Division St Springfield, MO 65803 417-866-4359

Deidra England, President Ladies Civic League Provides scholarships for youth P. O. Box 8296 Springfield, MO 65801 417-887-7440 Robert Looney, Ozarks Golf Club, Inc Spfld. Community Center 618 N. Benton Springfield, MO 65806 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

CU IS BRINGING OPPORTUNITIES TO YOU Whether you’re a vendor with an item to sell, a contractor with great ideas, or a dedicated person looking for a job with a great company; look no further than CU. CU is looking for motivated people to partner with to provide our customers with the care they’ve come to expect. For details on opportunities, log on to cityutilities.net. Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, M/F/D/V CITY UTILITIES OF SPRINGFIELD • 301 EAST CENTRAL, SPRINGFIELD 417.831.9000 • CITYUTILITIES.NET

Shelia Burton, President Lincoln Memorial Cemetery Board, Inc. P.O. Box 9282 Springfield, MO 65801 417-877-0668 Dennis Davis Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Springfield Alumni P.O. Box 6287 Springfield, MO 65801-6287 417-496-7365

Cheryl Clay, President Springfield Branch N.A.A.C.P. P.O. Box 8983 Springfield, MO 65801 Meetings are every third Saturday of the month from 1:30-2:30 p.m. 417-873-6386 Flora (Pat) Looney, President Our Night Out Social & Charitable Org. 417-866-2387 James Pike, President Springfield Reunion Club Organizes the Annual Park Day/ Reunion Weekend 1447 N. Hampton Springfield, MO 65802 417-869-0183 Meeting every first Monday Willie Carter, Director Victory Circle Peer Support Inc 2101 W. Chestnut Expwy Springfield, MO 65802 417-894-0188 Support group for men in recovery Samuel G. Knox Unite of SWMO, Inc. Publishes the Unite Publication; presenters of the Annual Springfield Multicultural Festival 2101 W. Chestnut Expwy. Springfield, MO 65802 Phone: 417-864-7444 unitepublication@yahoo.com www.unitenewsonline.org

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