Unite sept 2013

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Blues Festival

continued from page 1 Call and Stella Blue, followed by Shakura S'Aida and John Nemeth with the Bo-Keys. Saturday's performances get underway starting at 2:00 with Norman Jackson, this year's winners of the Blues Society's local Memphis Bound Solo/Duo Competition; followed by the winners of the local Memphis Bound Band Competition, Mojo Roots.

Greek Festival

continued from page 11 • Spanakopita, savory spinach and cheese pie • Tiropita, buttery cheese pie • Dolmathes, stuffed grape leaves • Baklava, crisp filo pastry layered with nuts and spices and drenched in honey • Kataifi, shredded pastry dough, soaked through with nuts and honey • Koulouria, buttery cookies, rolled and twisted • Baklava Sundae, soft vanilla ice cream enhanced with this favorite Greek sweet treat • Kafe, Greek coffee from The Coffee Ethic • Greek beer, wine, soft drinks and other beverages Here are directions to the church: West on Republic Road from Kansas Expressway past Scenic Avenue, left on Glenn Avenue, left on Lark Street and it’s one short block to St. Thomas the Apostle Orthodox Church. Parking is free. Web sites are saintthomasoca.org and opagreekfest.com. The Festival Event Hotline is 417.841.8586. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

September 2013 Volume 23/ Number 9 • A Monthly Publication by Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc •

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Blues

Building Empowering Connections In Our Diverse Community

Sixth Annual Greek Festival September 6, 7, 8, 2013 At St. Thomas The Apostle Orthodox Church

Greater Ozarks

Festival

Greek Dancers

Springfield, MO— Opa! You’ll hear a lot of that all-purpose “be-happy” exclamation of delight at the sixth annual Greek Festival to be held Friday-Sunday, September 6-8, 2013, on the grounds of St. Thomas the Apostle Orthodox Church. The Festival, which benefits the Orthodox Christian church located at 4200 S. Holiday Ave. in southwest Springfield, will be open on Friday from 5 until 10 p.m., Saturday from noon until 10 p.m. and Sunday from noon until 3 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Parking is free and credit cards will be accepted. “We are very happy to share our Greek culture with our neighbors and friends,” said Manoli Savennas, a native of Rhodes, Greece, who, with his wife, Valerie, are charter sponsors of the Festival. “We hope continued on page 11

Springfield, MO— The Blues Society of the Ozarks and the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds present the Greater Ozarks Blues Festival, Friday and Saturday September 6 and 7 at the Fairgrounds, 3001 N. Grant. This year's all-star lineup kicks off Friday evening Sept. 6 at 6:00 p.m. with Steve “Maddog” continued on page 12

Bobby Rush Headlines 2013 Greater Ozarks Blues Festival at the Fairgrounds

16th Annual Ozarks Celebration Festival Springfield, MO—The celebration will began with the Annual Ice Cream Social and Concert Under the Stars on Friday, Sept. 6th. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and get there early for this outstanding lineup: •The Undergrass Boys at 5:30 p.m.; •The HillBenders at 7 p.m.; •Rhonda Vincent & The Rage at 8:15 p.m. The craft and music festival continues on Saturday and Sunday with three performance stages – The Max Hunter Stage in front of Siceluff Hall; The continued on page 11

March Unite Page 6 September Unite Page 11

September Unite Page 2

Springfield NAACP Youth Summit and 4th Annual Jazz Festival Springfield, MO— The annual “Youth Empowerment Summit (YES!)” will take place during the day at Missouri State on Friday, October 4, 2013 featuring Dr. E. Richardson as the guest speaker. Later in the evening, Dr. E Richardson will be the opening act for the 4th Annual Springfield Jazz Festival, featuring Brad Leali on the main stage located at the Park Central Square. Several local jazz artists will also perform during the jazz festival. Dr. E is an engaging motivational speaker as well as educational consultant. Her topics range from Women’s Voices, Hip Hop Feminism, to Freedom Literacies and Teaching for Social Change.

She also performs a one-woman show- PHD to Ph.D.-based on excerpts from her memoir that features expressive performance, storytelling and music. Brad Leali who has been referred to as one of the most important voices on the alto saxophone of his era will also be performing. In 1995, Mr. Leali joined the Count Basie Orchestra, under the leadership of Grover Mitchell. In 1999, the Count Basie Orchestra won a Grammy award for Count Plays Duke with Leali receiving his own nomination for his solo work on the classic Billy Strayhorn composition, "The Star-Crossed Lovers." Leali departed from the Basie Orchestra in 2000 to focus on

President Obama’s inaugural celhis career as a soloist. Leali’s ebration “We Are One,” backing first solo recording was Priority up artists such as Stevie Wonder, Soul! In 1998 on the New Jazz Bruce Springsteen, Renaisssance RecordJohn Legend, Mary ings label. J. Blige, and Herbie He has also perHancock. Other artformed in Lincoln ists with whom he Center in the orcheshas played include tras of jazz legends Freddie Hubbard, Nancy Wilson and Clark Terry, Joe Benny Golson. Leali’s Williams, Jimmy numerous television Cobb, Frank Foster, appearances include Jon Hendricks, Roy local news programs, Dr. Elaine Richardson Hargrove, The Mingus the Today show (Peter Big Band, Jack McDuff, George Cincotti), Jay Leno, Arsenio Hall, Duke, Dr. Lonnie Smith, Jimmy BET, and the Harry Connick, Jr., Smith, Robert Downey, Jr., Christmas Special. He performs Fantasia, Billy Joel, Kid Rock, yearly as part of the Kennedy Yolanda Adams, and Brian Center Honors program. Most McKnight. recently, Leali performed at

The Library

continued from page 3 using a smartphone – anywhere there’s an Internet connection! This easy-to-use digital lending platform is available to all patrons using Web browsers, iOS, and Android. You can borrow videos, audiobooks and music albums from a smartphone, tablet or web browser. Unlike other streaming audio and video services, patrons do not pay a monthly subscription fee. For now, Library users are limited to 12 checkouts per month. Just go to hoopladigital.com, click on "Sign up today," agree to the Terms and Conditions of Use, enter your email address,

Ozarks Festival

continued from page 1

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Clear Creek Performance Stage in front of Hill Hall; and the Seldom Heard Music Stage (an open mic stage where musicians, singers, and storytellers are invited to come and perform before an audience) in front of Cheek Hall. More than 100 artists, craftsmen, exhibitors, and vendors will be on hand to both demonstrate their craft and sell their wares.

Greek Festival

continued from page 1 everyone has as much fun as we have.” Choose from a menu of entrees, pastries, beverages, including Greek wine and coffee, and have dinner under the tents, all to the mesmerizing rhythms of traditional music from the mainland and the islands. All weekend, church members will demonstrate the native

a password, select SpringfieldGreene from the library list, enter your library card number, then click Register. Simply find a title, click “Borrow,” and watch or listen wherever you are. When your lending period expires, titles are automatically removed from your library, making late fees a thing of the past. hoopla was designed and published by Midwest Tape, LLC. Midwest Tape has been a leader in library media service for more than 25 years. The second service is IndieFlix, which brings the film festival experience to you. Find it on the library home page or at thelibrary.org/art. The first time you use IndieFlix, you must create an account. If done outside the li-

brary, you must enter your valid A Directory of library card number. free oronline lowstreaming cost This free service offers award-winning Business shorts, features and documenAssistance taries from more than 50 coun-

dances of Greece, including the sirto, hasapiko, kalamatiano and hasaposerviko. Children wearing traditional Greek costumes will perform the yiatros and karagouna. In the evenings, Maria Savennas will lead the dancers in an original candle dance. Inflatables will be available for the children and souvenirs and memorabilia from Greece will be for sale in the agora (marketplace). Items include pottery, Byzantine crosses and icons, olive oil soap and lotions, magnets, jewelry, bags, CDs and cookbooks. The three-day Festival, to be held rain or shine, will also include brief overviews of the Orthodox faith by parish priest Andrew Moore in the church sanctuary. Manoli’s Jewelers will again offer a charity raffle to the public for a chance to win a one-of-akind, hand-made 14-karat yellow gold Byzantine cross embedded with precious stones. Menu entrees include: • Traditional and chicken souv-

laki, Grecian herbed, grilled and skewered with pita bread • Gyros, grilled meat wrapped in toasted pita bread and topped with the traditional tzatziki, a continued on page 12

tries. You can enjoy unlimited Springfield Area Chamber of access to thousands of film-fesCommerce tival hits including the best of www.spfldchamber.com 417.862.5567 Sundance, Cannes and more. IndieFlix is available on all InterSmall Business net-enabled computers, tablets Administration (SBA) (including iPad and Android), www.sba.gov and smart phones through the 417.864.7670 Web browser. It's also available Small Business on Roku and Xbox. Development Center www.sbdc.smsu.edu Kathleen O’Dell is community 417.836.5685 relations director of the Spring417.864.7670

field-Greene County Library District. She can be reached at kathleeno@thelibrary.org.

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Jason Umbarger, Attorney TRIALS * APPEALS * FAMILY * CRIMINAL * INJURY New(417) Podcast 865-4600 Discuss jason@jasonumbarger.com By Ron Ponds, Social Security District Manager

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Have you been wondering you want when If the best timetois to experience something retire? If you have, thennew —the before and after we have an audio pod- look of true cast justbeauty, for you. come to: Trena’s Exquisite Social Security’s new podcast, “Deciding Hair Salon Monday Saturday 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. When -to Start Receiving 1553 N. National Ave.is Retirement Benefits,” Call: (417) 849-6611 available for you to listen Ronald Ponds to now at HYPERLINK "http://www.socialsecurity.gov/ Th podcasts" www.socialsecurity. teners gov/podcasts. online In this discussion, Social which Security will tell you some of HYPE the things you need to consocials sider before making one of www.s Only $25. per year the most important decisions tor. T Call: (417) 864-7444 in your life. Social Security’s can he Deputy Commissioner for retirem Communications, Jim Courtney with s

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Affordable Will Your Life Work Housing

by Jack Canfield Opportunities Co-Author of Chicken Soup for There are currently housing vacancies in the City of the Soul Series Springfield’s program for rental or home ownership. These programs include requirements for fair marketing and nondiscrimination.

and dr time is make 2

As I mentioned You must be income eligible to qualify. earlier, 2009 may For rental, call Marti Fewell, 417-864-1039 or visit bring greater springfieldmo.gov/housing uncertainty and more unsettling economic news than recent years, but these circumstances Fades Barber Shop should compelinus to and Jack Canfield Specializing Fades takeother a deep breath, and popular styles. pause to think about our lives. YOU g 812 S. things Glenstone Ave in the When happen move y Call to seem schedule anbeyond world that so far or fart appointment or come itby.can feel our individual control, Extern Walk-ins are welcome. unsettling. part of (417)832-8242 Don't give up on your goals ing the

September 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 Association 417-886-2199 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

September Unite Page 3

IN THIS ISSUE

Health & Mental Fitness Americans Reveal Top Stressors ALEXANDRIA, Va. — A new – whether on-the-job or lack of survey from the country’s leadwork. Latinos, 41 percent, are ing non-profit mental health most likely to be stressed by organization – Mental Health employment issues, followed America – details the top life by African Americans with 39 stressors in American life and percent. the most common activities Americans engage in when feelStressed Americans ing overwhelmed or anxious. Parents feel the most “The majority of Americans stressed of all demographic struggle to find balance in the groups. Nearly 40 percent face of a multitude of challenges report feeling stressed from at in our busy society,” least three sources Mental said David L. Shern, – among them relaHealth America Ph.D., president and tionships with sigCEO of Mental Health nificant others or fam2000 N. Beauregard America. “How they ily, employment and Street, 6th Floor choose to cope – whethfinances. Alexandria, VA 22311 er it is distracting activiNative Americans, Toll free: ties, exercise, talking 37 percent, and African through their troubles Americans, 38 percent, (800) 969-6642 or more harmful meareport significantly sures of smoking and greater stress than doing drugs – affects their mennon-Hispanic Whites, 30 pertal health. If inappropriately or cent, while Latinos, 34 percent, inadequately addressed, chronic and Asians, 34 percent, report stress and other mental health no difference. problems jeopardize the health Americans with a college and well-being of Americans and degree are less stressed overall. of the nation as a whole.” And, a college education makes a difference in whether finances Americans’ Stressors are viewed as a stressor – more Overall, the majority of than half of respondents with people view their mental health less than a college degree note and well-being as excellent or financial issues as stressors in very good. Yet, they still feel their lives. besieged by financial, health People living with mental and employment issues in their illnesses are far more likely to daily lives. feel stress than those without Nearly half of Americans such personal experiences. This (48 percent) are stressed by increase in stress is primarily finances. Native Americans and connected to their relationships African Americans pointed to with significant others and finances as a stressor at a sigfamily, 72 percent. People with nificantly higher rate, 57 percent mental illness also feel stressed and 56 percent respectfully, by employment, 47 percent, and than Asians, 42 percent, Latinos, health, 48 percent. 49 percent, and non-Hispanic • When faced with stress, a vast Whites, 47 percent. majority of people, 82 percent, Health issues stress more turn on the television, listen to than 34 percent of Americans. music or read. Employment issues are the • Family and friends serve as a third main source of stress solid support for 71 percent of for Americans (32 percent) those polled.

• Prayer or meditation is a recourse for 62 percent and exercise sustains 55 percent. Africans Americans, 82 percent, are far more likely than other groups to use prayer or meditation as a way to deal with stress and anxiety. Native Americans and non-Hispanic Whites are more likely to engage in unhealthy coping skills to deal with stress – 30 percent of Native Americans and 28 percent of non-Hispanic Whites respondents drink, smoke or do drugs when feeling stressed out. Asian Americans are least likely to smoke, drink or use drugs to cope. Asians also have the highest likelihood, 77 percent, of talking to a family member or friend or exercising to manage stress levels, 70 percent. Women (42 percent) were significantly more likely than men (31 percent) to eat as a coping mechanism for stress. People living with mental illnesses are more likely to drink, smoke or do drugs to relieve stress, 42 percent, or take prescribed medications, 37 percent, talk with family, 74 percent, eat, 45 percent, and cut or injure themselves, 3 percent (fewer than one percent of overall pointed to self-injury). Mental Health America advances its mission by: • Educating the public about ways to preserve and strengthen its mental health; • Fighting for access to effective care and an end to discrimination against people with mental and addictive disorders; • Fostering innovation in research, practice, services and policy; and • Providing support to individuals and families living with mental health and substance use problems.

by Kathleen O’Dell , Springfield-Greene County Library District Your options for free movies, documentaries and music from the Library just got a lot richer. We’ve added two new services for library card holders that will let you borrow thousands of videos, audiobooks, music albums, filmfestival winners and documentaries right from your mobile device or Web browser. You’ll find access to both of them from the Library home page, thelibrary.org. First there’s hoopla, a revolutionary library lending service. It allows patrons to electronically borrow thousands of movies, TV episodes, audiobooks and music albums, and access them from any compatible device. Using cloud computing, patrons can borrow titles using a home computer, begin watching on a tablet, and resume continued on page 11

4 6 8 10

Volume 23, Number 9 Publisher Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc.

Community News

Improved Options For Free Movies, & Music At The Library

UNITE.

Tips For A Successful School Year by Gwen Marshall

The Money Section

Should I remodel Or Sell My Home? by Kim Jones

Lifestyle & Entertainment News

Movie Review —“Fruitvale Station” by Lyle Foster

Managing Editor Samuel G. Knox Contributing Writers Lyle Foster Mia Jackson-Huskisson Kim Jones Gwen Marshall Kathleen O'Dell Vera Jane Goodin Schultz Photography David Huskisson David N Knox John Schultz

Health & Mental Fitness

Volunteers Tyra Knox Angelor Wilkes

Americans Reveal Top Stressors by Mental Health America

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CommunitySection

Movie Review

continued from page 8

Tips for A Successful School Year: by Gwen Marshall, Unite Contributing Writer

teacher may assume they are not interested in learning. That is why it is important for teacher It is that time of year again. and student to establish a level Summer is coming to of trust, mutual respect a close and students and communication, all are back in the classof which are necessary room. Often times it for a prosperous school is difficult for students year. to get back into learnIt is important for ing mode after a few students to establish months outside of the and follow consistent school routine. It can routines. Teachers and Gwen Marshall be challenging for stuadministrators from dents, parents and teacharound the country agree ers alike. For some students that there are several key factors school may seem boring after a that contribute to a successful fun-filled summer break and the school year.

1. Make sure your child gets to school ever y day – and on time. Good attendance is essential for successful student academic performance. Missed class time is missed learning time and each subsequent tardy or absence compounds the problem. To put absences in their proper perspective, a twenty-minute tardy or absence from school each day means 60 hours – or two weeks – of missed learning during a school year. Please understand that your child’s teacher cannot teach a student that is not in class. 2. Follow a schedule. Children need a schedule to follow and depend on – one that includes definite times for homework, meals, and sleep. They can then work around those specific times to include additional activities. 3. Limit TV and video games. Decide how much free time should be spent on these activities – and stick to it.

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4. Make reading a family activity. Talk to your child about your favorite books. Encourage your child to retell a favorite story, focusing on meaning and comprehension. Provide your child with a wide variety of reading materials, including books and magazines. And encourage your child to read every night. Remember that reading is the “gateway to academic success.” 5. Stay informed of what your child is doing in school.

Take a few minutes every day to look at what your child brings home from school, and ask them each day what happened at school that day. By spending a few minutes each day talking to your child about what he or she studied at school, you will not only be more informed about their education, but will also encourage your child to be more thoughtful about his or her own learning. 6. Provide support for homework. Equip your child with a consistent, quiet, well-lit place in your home with all necessary supplies to do homework. 7. Give your child lots of positive reinforcement ever y day. Positive comments send a message to children that their school efforts are recognized and appreciated, which can lead to their greater effort and stronger academic performance. So, look for and acknowledge the good things your student does no matter how small they may be, and comment favorably on them regularly. 8. Support school rules and goals. Take care not to undermine school rules, discipline, or goals. Remember, “The Road to Success Begins with You” and the actions you take (or do not take) as a parent can make all the difference to your child’s success in school. With your help, Springfield Public Schools is continued on page 9

happen? And on the heels of the Travon Martin story this story is more powerful than ever. If you did not see this film....would you please try when it comes to the budget theatre or as a rental. Please do not bootleg this film the story ...the cast....and the filmmaker deserve more than that. And by the way..... the next few months we have a crazy lineup of films coming ...... I will just give some brief teas-

Food Review

continued from page 8 more than one at a few of the farmer's markets and other places where the trucks have sought to claim roots. And for some like That Lebanese Place the truck was the first stage to a permanent location as it has now found a comfortable and popular home on Commercial Street. Well, who are the players on the local truck scene and what do you think? Yes, you......it is grass roots folks and those who like to try something different that are leading the way and helping this new way of food delivery get firmly entrenched in the local eating scene. The scene is heating up every day in good old Stown both in terms of number of trucks and the variety of foods being offered. Well we have the juice truck which is simple enough and I love because you can get all those healthy fruit drinks that you know that you need but never take the time to prepare for yourself. And they are organic....now that is what I am talking about!

ers. The Butler is out and many of you have told me that you have seen it and you really liked it. Forest Whitaker and Oprah do a great job but there were some aspects of the film that I struggled with. I may write more about it next month or maybe not....depending on how the new films down the pike impact me. But the Butler is a compelling story and it is interesting to see the historical context of our nation's presidents and the lifestyle of the butlers that served them. For people who had no clue it is definitely

Now what I am about to say next may sound silly but that has never stopped me before..... I am not a big taco fan but I get their crazy popularity which has only been fueled more by the food trucks. And we have the Taco Wagon it is pretty good.... I know some folks who go crazy over it. Today's column is not meant to critique the trucks because I want to see them grow and establish and the public will vote with their support and $. A recent one that has gotten a lot of attention is The Wheelhouse and it has the interesting combination of Thai and Mexican and it is called ThaiMex. They advertise high quality and folks are raving about it.....I have had samples from there and they are pretty, pretty good. We have a lot of hot dog stands which in some ways caters to the bar crowd but there are those like Dancing Dogs that also attempt to be pretty stationary and serve up some amazing dogs and brats and the like. Summer which has now arrived and brats or sausage....well what can be bet-

an educational and informative piece. I am looking forward to the movie 12 years a slave based on a true story about a free man who was tricked into becoming a slave and never stopped looking forward to tasting freedom again. There is a movie about the legendary leader of South Africa, Nelson Mandela slated for release this fall and it looks like a very compelling movie. How can it not be when one considers the sacrifice that Mandela made and his amazing

rise to the presidency. There are others too but let me close by mentioning the talented Viola Davis and the suspense thriller Prisoners! Hmm should I say you are going to need to budget more coins in for the movie and popcorn budget....plan now so you don't miss a single moment of excitement and learning. Because a lot of these films are based on true stories you are getting good edutainment. And don't forget the film that deeply moved me and so many others ....Fruitvale Station. Fruitvale gets my highest rating......98 out of 100

ter. Well,. I know Chicago style hot dogs......and I am partial .... they have those too. Now someone is reminding me about one of the long standing food trucks in Stown and that is Pineapple Whip and some folks will swear by this place! There are a few locations and in weather like this nothing can be better! Away on the Fly and The Aviary have trucks that serve up some tasty grub for all occas-

sions. Oh, did I see a truck on Chestnut Expwy serving catfish and ribs? And did my car do a U-turn....that may be the only bad thing about the trucks..... you have to make sure you don't break the law or cause an accident when you see one unexpectedly and it is a good match for your stomach!!! We are pretty fortunate that the food scene here just keeps growing and getting better...... now go find a truck and check it out.

Successful School

ACT Test Dates 2013-2014 Test Date October 26, 2013 Registration Deadline September 27, 2013 (Late Fee Required) September 28–October 11, 2013

continued from page 4

looking forward to a school year filled with learning, and achievement. Dates to Remember: September 2, 2013 Labor Day (School System Closed) September 13, 2013 Mid First Quarter September 20, 2013 District Curriculum/ Professional Learning Work Day (Students Out All Day)

See your High School Counselor for more ACT testing information

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Homosexual Activists Bully Donnie McClurkin

LifeStyle&EntertainmentNews

by The Rev Clenard Childress, Jr BlackNews.com

Movie Review: “Fruitvale Station” by Lyle Foster Unite Contributing Writer

man.The film depicting the true story of Oscar Grant, Jr a 22 year old man from Blockbuster Bonanza..... Oakland, Ca came to the I hope this doesn't sound forefront when it won the too much of a chastisement dramatic grand prize at the but the dismal response ever popular Sundance film to the recent showing of awards. The first feature film Fruitvale Station in by 27 year old direcour community can tor Ryan Coogler only be classified as shows that you can a disappointment. It sometimes achieve showed at the multiamazing success if plexes and had such you have the skill a slim audience that and the right story is left early but fortuat the appointed nately our local jewel time. A graduate of Lyle Foster The Moxie was able the acclamed USC to show it earlier than it had film school he also wrote the planned and carried it for a story and just simply wanted few weeks. to tell the story of a young Fruitvale Station is not a man's life whose death shoot happy movie as there were tok the volatile Oakland, Ca. no MaDea characters throwcommunity. The film was ing frying pans or church aptly named for the train stop scenes with foot-stomping on the B.A.R.T. system where gospel choirs......but it is one the fateful event occurred. of those films we have to Many people in Springfield watch in spite of the pain as still hadn't heard much about a tribute to the lost potential the film when it opened here of the life of a young black at the end of July. A lot of the

a family and a future but he attention about the story and missed it. To say anymore the film originally came from would be not fair to you nor social media. There was not the powerful work of the filmthe big blockbuster budget maker. Michael B. Jordan for the film. Oscar Grant is does an exceptional job pornot an angel and is not pretending to be......he like many traying Oscar and academy award winyoung Africanner Octavia American men Spencer plays have had their his mother. I challenges and have seen the made a trip or film multiple two to prison. times and But the story undoubtedly is compelling I consider it because the one of the top filmmaker films of the succeeds in year. There showing us is Oscar how Oscar buzz for this was trying to film and move forward 2013 The Weinstein Company whether it and think of happens or not will not take a future with his girlfriend, away the powerful story desire a legit job and genuthat is portrayed here. For inely loved his beautiful little many it brings up some sad girl. The film in a poignant memories but it also has the way captures one day in his ability to pose the question life....New year's eve and the how does this outcome even series of events that shortcontinued on page 9 ened his future. Oscar had

Food Review: Food Truck Craze - Springfield by Lyle Foster Unite Contributing Writer

Well I am not necessarily a food purist but I was not one of the first in line when the food truck craze started sweeping the nation. In visiting other cities I had gone to some of the simpler ones with cupcakes and ice cream. Cities like Austin and

Portland have led this steamrolling national trend and proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that this movement is here to stay or for a long while. Sometimes cities have not always known what to do with them or local ordinances did not allow for the trucks to even exist. But if you have ever been to New York you already know that some of

the best food on Earth comes from those trucks and grilles that seem to be sprouting on the sidewalks even if you don't know what happens behind the scenes. Food truck Fridays and you name it seem to be what social media are talking about in many places. And in some of these communities you have to be on social media to know

where your favorite truck is going to appear next. A little behind the curve but still making it in before the movement is over Food Trucks have made their way to Springfield. Unfortunately the first wave has been spread out over the city in various parking lots and locations there are occassionally continued on page 9

which resulted in Rustin leaving the movement. When Martin L. King spoke at the Lincoln MemoWashington, DC—The hijacking rial, he stood strong to his moral of the Civil Rights Movement convictions. It is clear to one by homosexual activists took a and all, the homosexual agenda quantum leap with the barring trumps the Black Church in urof Donnie McClurkin from the ban communities. Regina Griggs Martin Luther King Concert of PFOX (Parents and Friends of celebration. Such a Ex-Gays & Gays) made strategic strike by the a very valid and crucial LBGT could not have observation stating, happened without the "Supreme Court Juscompliance of the curtice Anthony Kennedy rent political mood of cited public 'animus' the administration in against gays as a reason Washington. Africanto strike down part of Americans must take Clenard Childress, Jr. the Defense of Marcomplete notice of the riage Act, yet gay rights fact that the voice of the Black groups promote hatred against Community was completely disformer homosexuals," said regarded for a few disgruntled Griggs. "As shown with Donnie homosexual activists. Mayor McClurkin, ex-gays are the most Vincent Gray, of Washington, DC powerless and discriminated due to pressure from the Lesbian against minority in America Bisexual Gay Transgender lobby today. At the behest of gay activrequested internationally known ists, the black mayor of a major gospel singer, and Senior Pastor urban city removed an Africanof Perfecting Faith Church, of American from a civil rights Freeport, New York, be banned event despite the protests of from performing. local black ministers. Respecting It is a sad day for the church, the lives of people like Donnie, especially for the Black Church, who have decided to change, and for let us realize, this move was including them in the conversaexecuted after careful considtion, is part of building a tolerant eration of the possible repersociety." cussions. Their assessment? The Machiavellian tactics The Black Church will remain of the homosexual activists is complacent, will more than likely clearly seen here. They speak abandon their brother, and go tolerance and acceptance, yet away, with little objection. Such they attack, bully, and punish assessments can be made due those with whom they disagree. to the Black Church, and most We all need to recognize that of its members' alliance with the Donnie McClurkin is the worst party, who now dictates to them nightmare of the Gay agenda. who can perform at concerts, The insistence of the gay agenda and who cannot. to ignore psychiatrists, and even The president could have the liberal American Psychiatric mirrored Martin Luther King's Association, who factually state, response to the insistence of the there is no homosexual or lesgay agenda being in the platbian gene, thus those who are in form, by Bayard Rustin in 1963, the lifestyle, is due to a choice of

orientation, not genealogy. I have so why should we listen...?' Well Church, I am reminded repeatedly said, "you don't give civil rights to sexual orientation of an awesome sermon and later because the orientation might be title of a book, by Martin Luther chosen." There are thousands King, and I must interject its of people such as Donnie Mctitle here by asking this salient Clurkin that have been freed question: "Where Do We Go from the homosexual lifestyle, From Here? What will the Black and it is directly due to that Church do? How will the freedom, he was barred Black Pastors of Washfrom performing at a ington, DC respond? Martin L. King Gospel I would say: if there is Celebration. Oh the no response, than the irony! Remember, the lack of one will do far request of the Black more damage than the Church was ignored. offense itself. Then we Despite numerous calls Donnie McClurkin will we be reminded from Pastors, they were of another sermon of basically told, 'you don't Martin's called... "Unfulfilled have enough clout... your influDreams?" ence is insignificant... and above all, you will vote for us anyway,

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September Unite Page 7

September 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 The Value of Mentors for Business Success Reprinted From Success Magazine 2013 Leaders share advice on finding a mentor, a vital ingredient in starting a small business. In Google+ Hangouts, organized for 2013 National Small Business Week, experts “got together” to talk about the entrepreneurial landscape and topics important for small-business owners to know. In this webinar, leaders from small business centers and the U.S. Small Business Administration discussed mentors and shared their advice

on finding that integral help that comes from mentors and their experience. 1. To Learn, Get Your Hands in the Soil “The only way you learn to do anything is to go get your hands in that soil. To become a farmer, you’ve got to put your hands in the soil and learn how to do it. To become a quarterback in the National Football League you gotta go out and you gotta play and you gotta learn from other people. And in business, I’ve started my own businesses, 20 of them, from the dirt. Did I

ever make any mistakes? Well, I’ve made a lot of mistakes… We learn from mentors, other people who have had their hands in the soil.” — Fran Tarkenton, NFL legend and entrepreneur - SmallBizClub.com 2. Recognize that You Don’t Know Everything “The place to start is to recognize that even if you don’t know everything about your small business, for example you may be the best carpenter or plumber on the planet, you may continued on page 7

Should I Remodel Or Should I Sell My Home? Also, be prepared to go at least Homebuilders Association and 10% over budget. local warehouse stores to obtain 3. Know your neighborhood. contractor and designer Homeowners who This is especially referrals. have been in one locaimportant for future 5. Leave. If possible, find a tion for quite some time resale. Ask a realtor temporary residence until the are often torn between for a Market Analysis renovation is complete. It is the options of selling of the area before you very difficult to live with the and relocating or stayfinalize your plans. intrusion of noise, dust and crew ing and remodeling. This will indicate what of a construction site, especially There is no definitive homes are selling for with pets or small children. Kim Jones answer and each cirin A good cumstance is different. Howthe area and remodel can be Points to remember if you ever, here are just a few points the amenities a long and techoose to remodel: to consider if you choose to stay included. You 1. What is your major objective: dious process, and remodel. want to be 2. Develop a budget. but if done 1. What is your major objective: comparable 3. Know your neighborhood. correctly, it can Do you need more living area or or upgraded, 4. Ask for help. offer increased storage space? Are you simply but not ex5. Leave value and years upgrading? Is the current floor travagant for of enjoyment plan no longer viable? the area. in your home. For other real es2. Develop a budget. Know how 4. Ask for help. This is essential tate related questions, you may much money you have to work to achieving the best result for contact me at CJR, Carol Jones with and be realistic of what to your money. Utilize the services Realtors, 417-861-5025. expect for the allotted amount. of the Better Business Bureau, by Kim Jones Unite Contributing Writer

Value of Mentors

continued from page 6

be the best accountant on the planet, you may have the best pizza sauce available on the planet. In other words, every business owner has a product or a service which they know about. But not all of them know about things like accounting or maintaining the books or how to put together a marketing plan… We have folks with thousands of years of accumulated experience who can help… Get in touch with one of our partners, and they will be your partner in getting to success.” —Michael Chodos, U.S. Small Business Administration Entrepreneurial Development - SBA. gov 3. Take It One Piece at a Time “Everybody worries about failing. Everybody wants their business to be a success… The way you deal with the fear is you take it one piece at a time. And you talk to somebody who has gone through this before, who has familiarity and experience with the kind of business that you’re starting and who has gone through the planning process and has really got a lot of

knowledge about those individual building blocks for success.” —Michael Chodos, U.S. Small Business Administration Entrepreneurial Development, SBA. gov 4. Shadow a Business “One of the most creative ways that I have found businesses get over that big hurdle [the building blocks] is to find another business to shadow. Entrepreneurs care about other entrepreneurs.” —Carol Lopucki, Director of Michigan Small Business Technology & Development Center 5. Join a Peer-to-Peer Business Group “It works well to find a peerto-peer group of businesses that are in the same growth stage you are. It works well to come together once a month and meet to discuss the same areas in which you are growing together.” —Amanda Schultz, Montana Women’s Business Center 6. Get Help “The more help that you can get in thinking through your business, the better off you’ll be.” —Jean Setzfand, AARP

New Business or Trying to Grow a Small Business

City Utilities of Springfield and the City of Springfield will be hosting a brief workshop on how to do business with City Utilities, City of Springfield, Missouri State University, and Greene County. If you have not registered to do business with these Public Agencies and have products, equipment, or services that they might purchase, this is a good time to attend this workshop. We will be covering such topics as what we buy, viewing bids on web sites, and vendor registration process. The workshop will be on September 18 at 10:00 a.m. at City Utilities, 301 E Central – Training Center North – Barclay Auditorium. Please contact 831-8363 if you are planning to attend.

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

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 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 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