2021 December Unite

December 2021 Volume 31/ Number 12 • Find Digital Version @ www.unitenewsonline.org •

Free Take One

UNITE. Building Empowering Connections

[Critical Race Theory]

WHO’S AFRAID OF THE BIG BAD CRT? why? See On Page 7

What is CRT? Who’s afraid of it and

Also: Strategies for eating healthier during the Christmas Holiday See Page 10 The People vs. Bigotry in America Dec 1, 5:30pm

MSU professor presents a Mock Trial to argue Systemic Oppression, and Unfair Practices vs Genuine Diversity, Equity and Justice Page 7

A Girl Like Me Network Honors Banquet Dec 5, 6pm Organization dedcated to serving preteen and teen girls will host an event to honor the youth who participated in their mentorship sessions.

Page 3

NAACP Young Entrepreneur Business Fair Dec 11, 11am

Young business owners are invited to register their business for a chance to get more exposure and win Cash Prizes.

Page 5

‘Updated COVID-19 Community & Public Health Resource Directory See Information on PAGE 13

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FullSubscribe Time and Part Time Positions Available To The Unite Publication SilverDollarCity.com/Careers For Subscription Call: (417) 864-7444 417.338.8122 Also read Unite Online, go to: www.unitenewsonline.org Equal Opportunity Employer / Disabled / Veterans

We’re All Connected Whether you are looking for a job with a great company, or have a product or service to sell, City Utilities wants to get connected to you.

n,

One Door Unite Springfield Feb issue.indd 1

1/15/19 11:13 AM

Are you without a home, at risk of becoming homeless, do not have a safe stable place to stay or need affordable housing, call 417-225-7499 or visit the Springfield Affordable Housing Center at 300 E.Search Central, YouTube: Springfield.

Get Connected to Us.

Call 417-863-9000 or go to cityutilities.net to learn ways we can work together.

Black Fathers Matter

Making Sense of Money February 5, 12, 19 and 26 – (Basic Budgeting Series) Free interactive class to learn how to manage money better.

Registration is required and you must attend all four sessions.

Contact 417-888-2020, ext. 150 or register online at http://www. cpozarks.org/financial-literacy/.

Letter to the Editor Continued from Page 7

to being truly inclusive. Nevertheless, I dream of an inclusive society with mutual respect: something that Americans can be proud of. Above all, I love because of this revelation.

“Disagreement does not equal Written by Juwanda G. Ford hate.”

Parent Appreciation Night We want to thank you for your commitment to community-building and raising star readers!

We can't wait to celebrate you!

UJAMAA

KUJICHAGULIA

IMANI

UJIMA

UMOJA

NIA

KWANZAA

KUUMBA

illustrated by Shelly Hehenberger

Kwanzaa is Kayla’s favorite time of year. But this year, it looks as if a heavy snowstorm will keep her big brother, Khari, from getting home in time for the festivities! Will Khari miss the celebration completely? Or will Kayla and her brother somehow find a way to be together for Kwanzaa?

In 2022, we are activating 200 literacy champions into monthly giving for $22/month.

Visit our website to sign up! https://www.ujimamo.org/giving

The 3rd Kwanzaa principle is Ujima, which means collective work and responsibility .

Designed by: Emily Boone

Page 2 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

COVID-19 Community & Public Health Resource Directory: See PAGE 13

Tableof Contents Education

This is the time of the year with many diverse holidays available to explore — from Kwanzaa to Hanukkah to the Chinese New Year.

Page 6

Community

[Critical Race Theroy] Who’s Afriad of the Big Bad CRT? What is CRT? Who’s afraid of it and why?

Page 7

Community

MSU professor presents a Mock Trial to argue Systemic Oppression, and Unfair Practices vs Genuine Diversity, Equity and Justice

Page 7

Business & Sales

Donald Kelly is a sales expert who shares tips, tricks and advice to salespeople across the country. Learn Kelly’s 7 pieces of sales wisdom to ramp up your sales career.

Page 8

Health & Wellness

Whether you’re serving your own portions, or you’re at the mercy of Aunt Betty’s plates piled high, make informed decisions and set a strategy about some of your favorite dishes.

Page 10

Entertainment

King Richard —The highly anticipated film features powerful performances, a killer soundtrack, and more.

Page 12

It’s time to celebrate our 2021 accomplishments!

A GIRL LIKE ME NETWORK presents

1st Annual Honors Banquet December 5th, 2021 Silent Auction 6:00 pm Dinner Served at 6:45 pm

Discovery Center of Springfield 438 E. St. Louis St, Springfield, MO

Ticket: $40 Each RSVP: AGLMNBANQUET@GMAIL.COM

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 3

The Unite News Publication is published by Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc.

Brentwood Chapel - University Chapel Crematory - Columbarium

UNITE.

Volume 31, Number 12 MANAGEMENT

MANAGING EDITOR & PRESIDENT Samuel G. Knox ASSOCIATE EDITOR Tyra K Knox

SELECTED Independent FUNERAL HOMES ®

Licensed Funeral Directors of Distinction W. Bruce Howell · Robert J. Lohmeyer · Don R. Lohmeyer · Heather K. Howell · Clint W. Mease Angela N. Collins · Harley R. Williams · Andy D. Vowell · Dulcinea M. Lane Nichole E. Bauer · Barbara A. Hinds · Angie Howell Larsen

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

Locally owned and operated for over 70 years

CONTENT CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Melesha Bailey CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Kendal Ford CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Jacqueline Jadidian CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Amby Lewis CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Gwen Marshall CONTRIBUTING WRITER, Kathleen O'Dell SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR, Christella Payne CREATIVE TEAM PHOTOGRAPHY, Geve Penaflor FESTIVAL GRAPHIC DESIGN, Bradley Knox WEB DEVELOPER, Christoper Palma

Sunday 10:30 am Go to: deliverancetemple.org for more content

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Are you inspired to create a better future for yourself and others?

If so, Missouri State has a place for you.

With a campus community filled with diverse perspectives, voices and opinions, Missouri State is fulfilling its commitment to address the needs of a changing society.

Missouri State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Minority/Female/Veterans/Disability/Sexual Orientation/ Gender Identity Employer and Institution. Employment will require a criminal background check at university expense.

ARE YOU READY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE? APPLY TODAY AND

www.jobs.missouristate.edu

Page 4 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

The Unite. publication is a monthly newspaper published by Unite of Southwest Missouri, Inc. a 501(c)(3) non-profit community organization. Our goal is to promote a broader understanding and appreciation of the ethnically diverse talent, community resources and opportunities available in the Springfield/Greene County area. 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 correspondence to the same address. Reader’s comments and questions are welcomed. The opinions expressed in these pages do not necessarily reflect the views of Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc. “The Unite Publication in accepting advertising in this publication, makes no independent investigation concerning the services of products advertised and neither endorses nor recommends the same and assumes no liability therefore.”

For further information, you can contact us at (417) 864-7444.

Email: unitepublication@yahoo.com

Make A Contribution Today!

If you would like to make a contribution to the Unite News Publication and it’s mission, please mail your gift to Unite, P.O. Box 1745, Springfield, MO 65801 or contact our office at (417) 864-7444.

“Let’s build a stronger community together.”

- Samuel Knox

Managing Editor

Community: News, People & Events

YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR BUSINESS FAIR Hosted by the NAACP Youth Chapter

Saturday December 11, 2021 11:00 am - 2:00 pm Sanctuary of Praise, 2245 S. Holland Ave., Support local Kidpreneurs Ages 9 -18 Free and open to the public!

• Bring your family and friends • A positive experience for our youth Sponsor Opportunities Available Cash Prizes will be awarded $25 Registration Fee for each Exhibitor To register, or for more information contact: Misty McIntosh 417-838-3936 Shawny Powell 417-415-2719

Photo Credit: Leonard B. Horton, L to R: Lola Butcher, board member; Monica Horton, board chair; Courtney Cook, board secretary; and Gretchen Colon, Ujima’s Fund Development Consultant On Nov. 9, 2021, the Association of Fundraising Professionals-Ozarks Region recognized Monica Horton’s nomination on behalf of Ujima Language and Literacy as “Volunteer Fundraiser of the Year” at the National Philanthropy Day Luncheon. Horton is the founding board president of Ujima, a family literacy non-profit organization empowering parents/caregivers to read with their kids and advocate for their children’s success. For more information visit: UjimaMo.org

Cabin Fever? Join Us For Early Winter Events At The Library No need to suffer cabin fever with these early winter events at the Springfield-Greene County Libraries!

Kids in grades 1-5 are invited to hop on the STEAM train for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math activities in the Library Station Frisco Room.

Parents or guardians are strongly encouraged to attend and some activities require a signed release form. Call 417-865-1340 for information.

Saturday, Dec. 18, 2-4 p.m. Build a Kaleidoscope.

Learn about light and reflection while you make your own unique kaleidoscope. Supplies are limited.

Saturday, Jan. 15, 2-4 p.m. Slime Bar! Learn about polymers as you create your own custom slime.

••• It’s a new year, what are your dream intentions?

On Tuesday, Jan. 4, at 6:30 p.m. at the Schweitzer Brentwood Branch community room, adults can create an art journal page to help set dream intentions for the future. Artist and author Nicole Chilton will lead you through this easy and empowering activity; materials provided. Nicole’s book, “How Dreams Speak,” will be available for purchase and signing.

Registration starts December 21; call 417-883-1974.

••• Did you resolve to save money this year? Here’s a chance to fix things that may be worn or broken around the house. Visit the Fix-It Fair from noon4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 8, in the Midtown Carnegie Branch upstairs meeting room.

Volunteer experts will help you repair your fixable items. Bikes OK; no over-sized, gas-powered items or safety hazards. For other guidelines call 417-8620135. Presented with Community Partnership of the Ozarks.

••• Here are two for teens.

On Wednesday, Jan. 12 at 6 p.m., ages 13-18 are invited to check out membership on the Teen Volunteer Council at the Schweitzer Brentwood Branch.

Continued on page 11

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 5

It’s The Most Wonderful Diverse Time Of The Year

This is the time of the year with many diverse holidays available to explore.

By Gwen Marshall, Unite Contributing Writer

Springfield, MO— The song “It’s the Most Wonderful Time Of the Year,” by Andy Williams, says: “It’s the most wonderful time of the year, With the kids jingle belling And everyone telling you be of good cheer, It’s the most wonderful Gwen Marshall time of the year, There’ll be much mistletoeing And hearts will be glowing When loved ones are near, It’s the most wonderful time of the year” And I agree—it is a wonderful time of the year with many diverse holidays available to explore. I can hardly wait to share some of them with Springfield Public Schools students through a program called “Reading with Ms. Gwen.” It is always delightful to hear the students share their own family traditions and beliefs.

However, the holiday season can be a great time to expose your child to the exploration of other cultural traditions and beliefs. As your child is exposed to cultural traditions of others, it will expand their worldview and help create understanding across cultures. It will also help your child to develop empathy and understanding

for other people and their ideas.

Teaching your children about the holidays of other cultures helps them to see that no matter what differences we all have, we also have many things in common, such as family, respect and love. Most holiday celebrations are a time when families come together and celebrate with wonderful food, traditions and the joy of spending time with each other.

Most cultures take time during their celebrations to honor and respect their ancestors and all that they sacrificed for the family. Last but not least, after the food, fun, and activities, is love. It is important to let your child know how much they are loved by the family and that love is the key to family unity, regardless of our cultural differences.

Yes, it is the most wonderful time of the year and the most wonderful time to celebrate diversity.

Here are a few holidays and ideas for sharing this culturally diverse season with your family: • Hanukkah also known as the Festival of Lights or the Feast of Dedication, the holiday celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem following the Maccabean revolt against the Syrian-Greek army. Based on the lunar calendar, the holiday takes place for eight nights and days, commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple.

• Kwanzaa is an annual celebration of African-American culture that is held from December 26 to January 1, culminating in a communal feast called Karamu. The

Page 6 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

seven candles (Mishumaa Saba) represent the seven principles of Kwanzaa - unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith. The gifts (Zawadi) symbolize the parents’ love and their commitment to their children.

• Chinese New Year is the Spring Festival or the Lunar New Year. It is the festival that celebrates the beginning of a new year on the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar. It begins Tuesday, February 1, 2022.

How can you teach your children about different holidays?

Kendra Moyses of Michigan State University Extension suggests

that you must learn about the holidays yourself! Take some time to do a little research on some of the different holidays then ask yourself these three questions: 1. Why is this holiday celebrated?

2. What is the historical origin of the holiday?

3. What are the religious values, commercial or economic interests?

Additionally, Moyses adds, you and your family can: • Explore different cultures yearround. Holidays are one part of exploring other cultures, think about how your child could be culturally enriched without leaving

Continued on page 11

Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad CRT? [Critical Race Theory] Guest Columnist Mark A. Dixon

outlawed behavior, there can only be the continuation of the same narrative and actions that got us Springfield, MO— I was recently here. By the way, if you think that reminded of the famous line from I may be overdramatic in my use President Franklin Roosevelt’s inof the term “outlawed” consider augural speech in 1933, when he the fact that there are recent stated: “...the only thing legislation or policy we have to fear is... changes in more than fear itself — nameless, 30 states curtailing or unreasoning, unjustified banning discussion terror which paralyzof critical race theory es needed efforts to and even words/terms convert retreat into related to it! https:// advance.” Well, today brook.gs/3lcplah the “unjustified terror” Here locally, despite does have a name, and very clear and unequivMark A Dixon it’s Critical Race Theoocal statements to the ry. But who’s afraid and contrary from Springfield Public why?

Schools that CRT is being taught According to a report by the in its classrooms, some officials Brookings Institution, “Fox News elected to state government has mentioned “critical race thehave taken it upon themselves to ory” 1,300 times in less than four challenge and defeat this “terror” months. Why? Because critical in our public schools through legrace theory (CRT) has become a islation and law suits (at taxpayer new boogie man for people unwillexpense). As this is an opinion ing to acknowledge our country’s piece I won’t restrain myself from racist history and how it impacts telling you that I believe this to the present.” https://brook.gs/3lbe an awful waste on many levels. cplah Are topics related to race poorly Although CRT is not, nor was taught by some educators and in it ever intended to be, a “theory some schools? Yes. But the same of everything,” it does provide a may be said of math and science framework for a more robust in(just ask any student who “hates quiry about American society. You math and science” because she see, whether we are talking about “doesn’t get it”) the social (not biological) concept In fact, MUCH of the oppoof race, or some other subject, sition to the teaching or use of asking better questions can lead CRT comes from those who least us to discovering better answers understand what it is and what and solutions to the challenges we it offers to efforts at creating a face. more just, equitable, and opportuBut in any environment where nity-rich society. By the way, CRT questioning what is or how it is mainly taught in institutions of became the way it is constitutes higher learning and used by pub-

lic policy analysts, not elementary schools, and as the name implies is theoretical. It provides ONE framework or set of guiding principles for a critical analysis of the institutions, policies, and practices that have gotten us to this point and continue to influence our society going into the future.

For the benefit of those who would like to look at some of the misconceptions around CRT versus what CRT actually is, I offer the following link/article https:// bit.ly/CRTbreakdown So, who’s afraid of CRT? Lots of people, but I don’t believe that

YOU have to be afraid. If we are open to questioning our society’s circumstances and practices and are committed to us all “living our best life” as Americans, we don’t have to be afraid of Fear. We can look at and discuss these issues without either vilifying or victimizing others. Although ultimately it is personal, we don’t have to take everything discussed personally.

As the Brookings article stated, “Sociologists and other scholars have long noted that racism can exist without racists. However, many Americans are not able to Continued on page 11

CFD 305: Multicultural Studies in Child and Family Development Presents a Mock Trial:

The People vs. Bigotry in America Argued before the Supreme Court A Trial of Truth Seekers

Date: December 1, 2021 Time: 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm Location: PSU Room 313 Free and Open to the Public

Are we still in trouble?

Evidence will be presented to demonstrate “Isms,” Systematic oppression, Unfair power, Unfair Privileges, and Unfair Practices

Have we conquered the hills?

Counter evidence will be presented to demonstrate milestones of genuine diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice.

POC: Dr Sabrina A Brinson Professor, Author, Activist Missouri State University For more information contact: Sbrinson@missouristate.edu

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 7

Donald Kelly—The Sales Evangelist—Is Out to Create a Community of WorldClass Sellers

by Jamie Friedlander

For SUCCESS Magazine

Donald Kelly is a sales expert who shares tips, tricks and advice to salespeople across the country.

Learn Kelly’s 7 pieces of sales wisdom to ramp up your sales career.

W​​hen Donald Kelly was 6 years old, he wanted to make a little pocket cash. His family’s yard in Jamaica had a large mango tree, so one day, he picked a few sweet, juicy mangoes, set up a table in the front yard, and tried to sell them to neighbors.

“It wasn’t fruitful—no pun intended—but it was an interesting experience,” Kelly says. “It catapulted me.” If you want to make money, he thought at the time, you need to figure out how to sell something.

Although he didn’t turn a profit on the mangoes, the itch to sell stuck. Now Kelly, who lives in West Palm Beach, Florida, is a sales expert who shares tips, tricks and advice to salespeople across the country. He runs The Sales Evangelist, a consulting firm, and hosts The Sales Evangelist podcast, which has over 1,200 episodes and 2.5 million total downloads. He has a new book on the way, too, with an apt title: Sell It Like a Mango.

It’s In His DNA Kelly, 37, was born in the

Kingston area of Jamaica. When he was 6 years old, his mom moved to Florida for work. Kelly lived with his aunt until he was 9, at which point he moved to the U.S. to join his mother.

“My mom hustled for three years and did all of the things that immigrant families would do— work multiple jobs and all kinds of things—so that when we came to the United States, we’d have an opportunity to succeed,” he says.

Although Jamaica has an excellent education system, it’s still a third-world country with a third-world economy, Kelly says.

The average monthly salary is just $500. Because of the lack of steady, reliable jobs, many Jamaicans—including Kelly’s father and countless other members of his family—turn to entrepreneurship.

“I’ve seen everyone in my family do entrepreneurial things, whether it was reselling clothes they bought in the U.S., selling peanuts, or having a little restaurant,” he says. “You did what you needed to do to survive. You created opportunities.”

After attempting to peddle mangoes to his neighbors as a young boy, Kelly realized that he enjoyed the hustle of sales—of trying to make something out of nothing. Later, when he was in middle school in the U.S., he

Page 8 Building Empowering Connections | Unite News

tried to earn some spending cash by buying candy from Alberton’s grocery store and reselling it for a profit to kids at school.

Kelly got his first real sales gigs during college, where he did timeshare presentations and worked for Dish Network. He briefly considered other professions, like law and writing, but eventually decided to follow his natural inclination for selling.

In 2013, while building his sales career, a friend of Kelly’s introduced him to podcasting.

Kelly started his own podcast, The Sales Evangelist, and interviewed fellow sellers about what worked and what didn’t, essentially “evangelizing” about the topic. A guest appearance from one of the most popular voices in the industry—Jeffrey Gitomer—put Kelly’s show on the map.

Since then, he’s been on a mission to help sales-

people across the globe perfect their craft.

Time To Hustle Whether you’re a seasoned pro with two decades of experience or you’re fresh out of college and looking to rise up, Kelly offers these seven pieces of sales wisdom: #1 You shouldn’t feel like you’re being pushy.

“The biggest misconception people have about working in sales is that you have to convince people to do something,” Kelly says. Instead, think about sales Continued on page 9

Library

Continued from Page 3

The Sales Evangelist

other branch or Mobile Library. continued from page 8 Pay fines with a debit/credit card.

Access Wi-Fi from 5:30 a.m.-11 like this: Someone has a problem, p.m., every day. and you have a solution that’s in The 24/7 library is within their best interest. walking distance to several westGreat sellers aren’t trying to side neighborhoods, businesses manipulate someone into buying and restaurants; the Young-Lilley something, but rather they’re askPark, and it’s next to a Springfield ing effective questions and probCity Utilities bus stop on West ing deeper and deeper until they Chestnut Expressway. figure out how to help a buyer The 24/7 made its debut in a problem in their life. early solve February with funding from “The greatest salespeople are the Friends of the Library and the ones who are almost like theradditional support from the State apists,” Kelly says. “They know Library. that great questions lead a buyer ••• to come to a conclusionraising about If you’re a grandparent whether this something they grandchildren or is know someone should invest in or not.” who is, helpful resources will #2 All great from sellers1-4 have two qualibe highlighted p.m. ties in common.

Saturday, Feb. 16, at the Library who are at the top Station. Salespeople Visit with representaof their game typically exhibit tives from area organizations and two specific qualities: and gather information onempathy community curiosity. resources. It’s sponsored by the salespeople whoand are Library,“Great NAACP’s Be a Jewel empathetic understand where Grands Raising Grands. Registra- the buyer Feb. is,” Kelly says.

“But in addition starts 5; call 616-0683. tion to that,••• they must be curious because curiosity to asking Here are two more leads programs engaging questions.” for families: Kelly and offers the example Picky Eaters Problem Feed-of someone who comes in to buy ers is the topic from 9:30-11:30 a computer.

Many a.m. Saturday, Feb. 23,sellers in the would assume the person is buying Library Center auditorium.

If the computer themselves.

But mealtimes and for snacks with a child perhaps they’re buying it for are a struggle, this is for you! their 14-year-old son883-5341. who loves gamRegister by calling ing.

“If I’m not curious Conscious Parenting: Fromenough digCalm, and be empathetic Chaostoto 10-11:30 a.m.toward Satyou, you will think this guy is urday, March 16, in the Library just trying to sell me something, Center auditorium.

Conscious rather than this person is genuDiscipline supports children’s inely curious me and my healthy social andabout emotional situation and wants me to thrive learning. Parents learn life-changand succeed,” he says. ing skills that decrease problem #3 There’s one reason sellers often

behavior. Presented in partnership with Early Childhood One Stop. Call 616-0563 to register.

A Great Place To Work For Great People!

a less-than-enjoyable task, lead 40 phone calls a day, and you’re underperform. prospecting is the key to gaining getting rejected and people are There are sellers with five, 10 new clients and, in turn, growing saying no over and over again, or even 20 years of experience one’s business. it’s really difficult to make that who still struggle to close deals, Continued from Page 5 #5 Thinking outside the box will help next phone call,” he says. “You and it’s not because they lack you stand out from competition. need the bulletproof mindset to expertise.

It’s the because they think June.

Contact MO Job When training sellers, Kelly say, ‘I’m going to keep pushing they’llatfail.

Center 417-887-4343 for more often teaches them to do what through, and I’m going to keep “The No. 1 problem most proinformation. he calls “breaking through the working.’ ” fessional sellers have is the belief Full Time and Part Time Positions Available monotony.” It means doing the This article originally appeared that they cannot succeed,” Kelly SilverDollarCity.com/Careers Change 1000 Skills Academy opposite of what everyone else is in the November/December 2021 says.

“That belief leads to negative 2 Weeks – 36 Hours (6 hours a 417.338.8122 doing—to zigEqual whereOpportunity others zag.Employer Issue of SUCCESS magazine. Phohabits, those negative habits / Disabled / Veterans day) newand job-training program For example, most sellers send to Courtesy of Donald Kelly. us.” forlimit manufacturing, construction, emails, make phone calls or write Take, for example, someone transportation/logistics, inforLinkedIn messages to prospective who believes the customer they’re mation technology and healthOne Door Unite Springfield Feb issue.indd 1 up by send1/15/19 11:13 AM clients.

Shake things about to call willYou reject care industries. canthem. work Are you without a home, at risk ing video or audio messages, or “That person is not going tothe pick another job while attending of becoming homeless, do not even snail mail, Kelly says.

You’ll up the phone that call training.

At theand endmake of training, have a safe stable place to stay be surprised by how effective this because they’ve already defeated participants are connected or need affordable housing, call simple switch-up can be. in their belief system,” tothemselves employment opportunities 417-225-7499 or visit Spring#6 Failure is part of thethe game.

Kelly And even if that person with thesays. same employers who fieldOur Affordable ability toHousing deal withCenter failure Call Today: does muster enough courage to designed the training program. at 300 E. Central, Springfield. is often hardwired in us.

Some call, iffor they still jobs believe the pros(417) 864-7444 Wages most start people handle it better than othpect will say no, they’ll fold every between $10 - $17 per hour. For Making Sense of Money ers, likely because they have high timeinformation they’re met with “I’m not more or toan register February 5, 12, 19 and 26 – self-esteem and their formative interested” or “It’s not a good time NEEDED visit: www.changeonethousnad.

SEEKING (Basic Budgeting Series) role models growing up modeled right now.” org or call 417-887-4343.

Free interactive class to learn appropriate behavior.

“They cave because they’ve how to manage money better.

If you struggle with fear of failalready convinced Northwest Project themselves that Registration is required and you ure, that doesn’t mean you can’t it wasn’t going to work, Offers a free program toand helpthen must attend all four sessions. succeed in a sales position. But it becomes a self-fulfilling prophfamilies revitalize their hope so Contact 417-888-2020, great salespeople knowext. it’s150 part ecy,” Kelly “If I believe that they can set says. and meet personal orofregister online at http://www. the game, and over time, they people don’t want to buysystem from me, goals with a community cpozarks.org/financial-literacy/. learn to not take no personally. going to be at the core of ofthat’s support.

Program partici“They’re not rejecting Donald everything I do.” pants focus on specific ways to Kelly,” Kelly often tells himself. #4 You can’t succeed by cutting help families move from living “They’re rejecting someone callcorners. to paycheck: Affordpaycheck ing them and belief is the No. 1 reason Continued fromintruding Page 7 on their able While Quality Housing, Quality day.” salespeople underperform,Job Kelly Childcare, Transportation, to truly Never#7 being Thick skin is inclusive. crucial. says the second reason is typically Training and Educational Optheless, I dream of ansentiment inclusive There’s a common because they don’t wantResolvto identiportunities, Budgeting, that in order to workrespect: in sales, you society with mutual fy Legal potential new customers, which ing Issues, Accountability need to be confident, self-assured something that Americans can is referred to asWell leadBeing. prospecting. and Health and For and able to rejection head-on be proud of.face Above all, I love fact, 40% of salespeople moreIninformation: contact thesaid without taking things too personbecause of this revelation. lead prospecting thewww. hardest Northwest Projectisat: ally.

“Disagreement does not equal part of their job,SGFNWP@ according to a DrewLewis.org, Kelly says this is 100% true. study fromormarketing company hate.” gmail.com 417-720-1890.

“When you’re making 30 or HubSpot. But even though it’s

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Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 9

Health & Wellness News Strategies for having a Healthier Holiday

by Melesha Bailey Unite Contributing Writer

holidays and not go crazy eating foods that set you up for weight gain or exacerbate health condiSpringfield, MO— The Christtions affected by the foods you mas season is a magical time of eat. This year, set a goal to avoid year when we show the traps of eating canthe love of Christ to dy, cookies, cakes, and our family, friends, foods that you will face coworkers, and this holiday season. special people in The culmination our lives. Last year, of the holiday season many families could is Christmas dinner, not spend time and it’s not the healthtogether so that this iest meal, but it’s oh Christmas will be so good. By impleMelesha Bailey even more special. menting certain tricks Christmas is by far one of to make some of your favorite the most anticipated holidays of foods healthier and forgo the the year. Homemade cookies, uncomfortable turkey, dressing, candy, and all sorts of goodies and ham-induced food coma, on bombard us for weeks leading up the couch or being balled up in a to December 25th, then we get corner somewhere a thing of the together with our loved ones and past. friends and enjoy the holiday with As you wake up on Christmas some of our favorite foods. morning, begin with the mindset Everyone wants to enjoy the that you’re going to eat breakfast,

lunch, and dinner so that you will be less likely to stuff yourself at the big meal, says Willow Jarosh of C& J Nutrition. You don’t want to deny yourself on this day. So go ahead and eat, but do it more mindfully.

Whether you’re serving your own portions, or you’re at the mercy of Aunt Betty passing out plates piled high with some of everything, make informed decisions and set a strategy about some of your favorite dishes.

Strategies for healthier Christmas Dinner 1. Maybe this year start with a nice soup and salad. I recommend a butternut squash or a broccoli and carrot soup with potatoes and thyme. By kicking off your meal with soup and salad will help you slow down while eating. Also, it may help you avoid overdoing when you get to the main course.

2. Make smart swaps. Instead of candied yams, maybe have baked sweet potatoes with all the fixings on the sides. Greens made with smoked turkey meat can be a healthier option and use a better quality mayo or salad dressing for potato salad.

3. Pile your plate with protein and lots of vegetables. Fill up 50 percent of your plate with nonstarchy veggies. Greens, brussels sprouts, green beans, carrots, and roasted peppers are good options.

4. Make homemade cranberry sauce. It’s so easy, and you can use healthier alternatives other than white sugar for sweetness.

5. Skip the gravy. White flour, butter, and oils make gravy heavy and full of calories that are not necessarily needed.

6. Eat either rolls or cornbread, either, not both.

Continued on page 11

Difference Between Medicare & Medicare Replacement Plans the mail as my family did. There are a lot of options and information in the booklet, which assists you with selecting a plan that meets your current wellbeing. As a previous nursing home administrator, I was able to see firsthand how most of the different insurance plans work Jacqueline Jadidian when you really need

by Jacqueline Jadidian Unite Contributing Writer Springfield, MO— As most of you know it’s Medicare Open Enrollment time.

The open enrollment began November 1st and closes on January 15, 2022. I am sure you received a Medicare guide in

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to use them (i.e. hospital, shortterm rehab). One key is knowing the difference between standard Medicare with a Supplemental Insurance (Medigap) versus Medicare Replacement/Advantage Plans.

Medicare w/ Supplemental (Medigap): Purchasing a supplemental plan (Medigap) with your original Medicare plan is pricey when it comes to monthly premiums. Original Medicare does

not cover extra costs, like eye care, dentist, silver sneakers, etc.

Most people that have Medicare purchase a Supplemental Plan (i.e. Blue Cross) to cover extra costs. When people see the total monthly premium they sometimes think it would be best to transition to a Medicare Replacement Plan (i.e. Humana, Aetna). However, if you were to be in the hospital and/or a short-term rehab, Continued on page 11

Diverse Time of the Year the United States.

• Read children’s books about different holidays. Check out your local library for activities and

books available.

• Try food from different cultures that is used to celebrate during the holidays. Not sure where to start? Check out a few multicultural cookbooks or look for recipes on the internet. Talk about why

Library

Medicare

You can also earn volunteer hours for college admissions or your resume. Dinner provided, and we’ll give you details on how you can join. Registration starts December 27; call 417-616-0703.

Then it’s Teen Craft Night at the Library Station from 6-7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 14, in the Frisco Room for grades 6-12. We’ll make Inflatables to harness the power of air to create an interactive toy or robot that moves. Materials provided. For details call 417-8651340.

this plan covers most of the care costs. This type of plan also allows the medical professionals to make the decision when you need to be discharged versus the insurance company determining that.

Medicare Replacement/Advantage Plans: These plans usually cover all the extra costs, like prescriptions, eye care, dentist, silver sneaker, etc. The monthly premiums are minimal to zero. Most people think this is the best option because they’re saving money every month versus using Medicare/Supplemental Insurance.

However, that saying, ‘you get what you pay for’, goes along with these types of plans. Extra services are covered with this plan, but when you need to use this plan, such as hospital and shortterm rehab, it does not cover as well as standard Medicare with Supplemental. With these plans they dictate when you should be released from the hospital and short-term rehab; they don’t listen to the medical professionals.

Remember, you get what you pay for. If you’re very healthy I’d say go ahead with a Medicare Replacement/Advantage Plan. If you have mild to poor health or know of future surgeries that will need to be planned I would recommend Medicare with Supplemental.

Continued from Page 6

Continued from Page 5

By Kathleen O’Dell, Springfield-Greene County Library District.

Healthier Holidays

Continued from Page 10 However, I tend to skip the cornbread because it’s an ingredient for most dressings.

7. Use a smaller plate and get smaller portions of food. You can still get quite a bit of food on your plate and feel full and satisfied.

8. Sample desserts and don’t go back for seconds.

Christmas is about celebrating the birth of Christ and spending time with family and friends.

There is no reason you can’t enjoy healthier holidays without feeling deprived and guilty.

Enjoy life and enjoy your holidays, and Happy New Year ~Melesha

Continued from Page 10

specific foods are important and part of a holiday tradition.

• Attend a local holiday festival as a family. While you’re there, look for things that are similar to your holiday traditions.

• Visit with people that celebrate different holidays than your family.

Most of all, continue to consider that diversity makes this season bright.

Coming Events: (School System Closed) Dec. 24, 25, 31 & Jan.1

Critical Race Theroy Continued from Page 7

separate their individual identity as an American from the social institutions that govern us—these people perceive themselves as the system. Consequently, they interpret calling social institutions racist as calling them racist personally.”

Racism in America is real… and it has been for a very long time. However, we don’t have to fear honest discussion and change. If America is to “rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal”” (as Dr. Martin Luther King’s dream pictured), there is no time like the present.

Let’s not be afraid any longer of using the tools, all the tools, that are available to us to make that dream our reality.

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Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 11

Reasons you should watch ‘King Richard’

By Jared Alexander The Grio The highly anticipated film features powerful performances, a killer soundtrack, and more.

Starring Will Smith in a film following the history-making rise of tennis legends Venus and Serena Williams, King Richard is set to be one of the biggest feel-good movies of the year.

The project features stellar performances from rising actresses Saniyya Sidney and Demi Singleton, who star as Venus and Serena, as well as Aunjanue Ellis, Tony Goldwyn, and more. TheGrio got a chance to screen the film, and here are five reasons King Richard is a must-watch this fall.

2021: The Year of Will Smith From his latest YouTube Originals series to his highly-anticipated memoir to an upcoming National

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Geographic series Welcome to Earth that debuts in December, Smith is having one of the biggest years of his decades-long career. King Richard may be the cherry on top, as Smith steps into the role of Richard Williams: father and trainer to his daughters Venus and Serena.

By choosing to look at the massive rise of Venus and Serena through Richard’s lens, the film is able to really investigate this family unit as they band together and reach for the stars, despite a sport and country that places countless obstacles in their way.

Enter Saniyya Sidney and Demi Singleton The wonderful surprise of King Richard is the captivating performances from Sidney and Singleton.

As Venus and Serena Williams respectively, the young actresses show off impressive tennis chops, while also tugging at the hearts of the audience through their acting.

Although the world has come to know and celebrate Venus and Serena as the sports superstars they are, Sidney and Singleton’s performances remind us that they were, at one time, two insanely talented girls with some pretty big dreams, a lot of love

King Richard (HBO)

for each other and a strong family to support them along the way.

Aunjanue Ellis stuns as Oracene “Brandy” Price Ellis’ portrayal of Oracene “Brandy” Price, the tennis stars’ mother, leaves a powerful mark on the film.

Yes, Richard trained the girls and fought hard to get them the best opportunities possible, but Oracene was also a vital piece of the Williams’ family puzzle. By helping to hold down the fort, often training the girls herself, and putting her family’s needs first, Oracene’s journey is the heart of the film. Ellis all but steals

the movie with a particularly nuanced and grounded performance.

New Beyoncé!

With great movies often come great soundtracks, and King Richard is no exception. The film’s credits feature the much-buzzed-about new song Beyoncé wrote especially for the movie. “Be Alive,” is a perfect fit for the story, with lyrics like, “Do you know how much we have pride? / How hard we have to try?” over a pulsating beat.

King Richard premiered on Nov. 19 in theaters and is available to stream on HBO Max.

Now streaming on Netflix: The Harder They Fall Netflix’s highly anticipated western The Harder They Fall has gotten rave reviews since it dropped earlier in November.

TheGrio sat down with stars Regina King and Idris Elba to talk about how they prepared for their roles, their friendship and what it was like shooting the film during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Boasting a star-studded cast including Jonathan Majors, LaKeith Stanfield, Delroy Lindo and Zazie Beetz, and a killer soundtrack, the film fused the western film genre

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with an all-Black ensemble.

Filming, however, was not without its challenges, specifically due to the uncertainty of a pandemic.

King, who stars in the film as Trudy Smith, told theGrio, “I think it’s just really important to put it into perspective that we were shooting this during a time where this thing that has no face was tearing the world apart and still is in some regards.”

The accents both King and Elba had to work on for the project were also a challenge. Elba

explained that due to his natural British dialect, accents are almost always a hurdle for him.

“You know, when you talk about the West, you know, you say, OK, well, where in the West do all these Black people come from?” Elba said. “And the truth historically is that these towns became transient stumps for many different African-Americans from all over the country, so the accents could be placed anywhere within that.”

The Harder They Fall is now streaming on Netflix.

CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) COMMUNITY & PUBLIC HEALTH RESOURCE DIRECTORY PUBLIC HEALTH RESOURCES Help Ozarks

Help Ozarks is the City of Springfield’s main website to share official directions to slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). This website provides direct links to information on the latest Springfield-Greene County health updates, resources for job seekers and employers, and a pledge citizens, businesses and institutions can voluntarily take to show commitment to slowing the spread of the Coronavirus during Recovery orders. For more information visit: https://www.springfieldmo.gov/5107/Help-Ozarks

Springfield-Greene County Health Department | COVID-19 Resources

The Springfield-Greene County Health Department’s website has guidelines for good hand and respiratory hygiene habits, tips for at-risk groups that may be more affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and guidance for travel and isolation/quarantine timelines. The health department’s website also shows testing sites—Cox Virtual Health Visits and MyMercy—available in Springfield. For more information visit: https://www.springfieldmo.gov/5068/ Coronavirus or call 417-874-1211.

Cox Health Visits

Cox Healthcare System is providing free virtual visits to screen patients for COVID-19 and provide more guidance about the appropriate actions to take if they are sick with the Coronavirus. Virtual visits are online appointments that are available for people ages two years and older and include a COVID-19 Risk Assessment and if needed, a prescription referral to a pharmacy. For more information visit: https://www.coxhealth.com/services/virtualvisits/ or call 417-269-3000.

Mercy Health

Mercy Health provides virtual care options to seek medical treatment without exposing others to illness. MyMercy is a free, easy-to-use application to manage your whole family’s health online. This app allows users to access information about their health and care team 24 hours a day. For more information visit: https://www.mercy.net/patients/mymercy/ or call 417-820-2000.

Missouri Food Stamp

Pandemic Food Stamp/Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (P-SNAP) provided all households currently eligible for SNAP to receive the maximum amount for their house size for March through June 2020 to prevent Food Stamp benefits from ending during the COVID-19 pandemic. Starting July 1, 2020, Missourians are required to complete a periodic recertification process to verify the household still qualifies for Food Stamp/SNAP benefits.

For more information visit https://mydss.mo.gov/covid-food-stamp-info.

Food Resources in Springfield and Greene County

Food resources in Springfield that are available to the general public, children and older adults who are 60 years and above during COVID-19 Stay-atHome and Recovery orders can be found at the following Google Spreadsheet. The list is updated with new resources when they become available and contains the location, hours, type of food service, ways to access food services and who can access services: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1v3UBVz5i68INI3agcZLM7ULys-O3jHOKm6zwJXWqJB0/edit#gid=0

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PUBLIC HEALTH RESOURCES WIC

Effective March 18, 2020, all satellite WIC locations were closed until further notice. All appointments are handled over the phone. The WIC program is housed at Jordan Valley Community Health Center and provides free services for qualifying participants such as health screenings, nutrition education and additional food packages, breastfeeding support, referrals to health care providers or social services agencies. For more information visit: https:// www.jordanvalley.org/services or call 417-864-1540.

Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS)

Most DSS offices are still closed to the public at this time, but some offices are taking in person visits by appointment only. Please visit the DSS website to see how the Family Support Division, Child Care Subsidy, MO HealthNet (Medicaid), Children’s Division and Division of Youth Services will conduct business during this time period if assistance is needed at https://dss.mo.gov/covid-19/

MO HealthNet (Medicaid)

Telehealth is available to MO HealthNet participants. There will be no copays for COVID-19 testing for MO HealthNet participants. Coverage will be extended to Missourians ages 19 to 64 who test positive for COVID-19. Requirements for prescriptions refills will make sure participants have access to essential medications. For more information visit: https://dss.mo.gov/mhd/ or call 573-751-3425.

JOB SEEKERS AND EMPLOYERS Missouri Job Center

The Missouri Job Center has reopened to the public and offers a variety of job options and job training programs during Recovery Orders to make sure individuals can get back to work stronger than ever before with events and opportunities such as: Aspire (youth program), MO Works Together, Green for Greene, Career Services, America’s Promise, SkillUP and Franklin Apprenticeship & Dislocated Worker programs. The north location job center has relocated from the Cox building to the N. W. Project, located in the on Fairbanks. For more information visit https://www.springfieldmo.gov/1007/Workforce-Development or call 417-887-4343.

Prime, Inc.

Prime, Inc. is a logistics company with a Driver Training Program that allows individuals to earn their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) while getting paid. CDL training classes start each week and gives driver’s real-world experience to prepare for any situation they may encounter on the road. Prime also offers in-house job opportunities to ensure the safety, success and reliability of operations. For more information visit https://www.primeinc.com/ or call 1-877-774-6356.

SRC Holdings

SRC Holdings Corp. is an employee-owned remanufacturer in North America directly servicing original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Acknowledged as a Top 25 Best Small Company in America by Forbes, SRC employee-owners are leaders in custom remanufacturing, new assembly, supply chain management, and core and materials management. SRC associates take pride in their reputation as businesspeople who understand how they impact the company’s success and share in the wealth generated by the company. SRC offers extensive benefits packages and robust career development programs including 100% tuition reimbursement, paid training, apprenticeships and more. Learn more at https://www.srcholdings.com/ or call 417-862-2337.

File for Unemployment | Missouri Department of Labor

The Missouri Department of Labor’s website provides information on how to file or manage an unemployment claim or claim benefit eligibility. The website also features information on worker’s compensation and discrimination complaints for businesses and workers. Businesses can file unemployment for groups of employees they may have to lay off due to COVID-19. For more information visit: https://labor.mo.gov/coronavirus.

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EDUCATION PRE-K TO 12TH GRADE & BEYOND HIGH SCHOOL Springfield Public Schools (SPS)

Springfield Public Schools (SPS) has an online resource center to help adjust to schooling from home to create an environment for your student to learn well at home. Resources include tips to schedule a routine for homeschooling children at each grade level, special education and English Language Learner (ELL) resources. For more information visit https://www.sps.org/Domain/57 or contact your child’s school.

Kahn Academy

Kahn Academy is offering free resources to parents, teachers, schools and districts to keep everyone learning. Their website offers resources such as daily schedules, weekly learning plans for students in remote learning environments. For more information visit https://keeplearning.khanacademy.org/.

Fast Track Program

Fast Track is a financial aid program from the Missouri Department of Higher Education that helps adults obtain an industry-recognized credential in high need job areas. Students who receive the Fast Track grant have any remaining college tuition and fees covered after using other state and federal aid programs. Individuals 25 years or older or who have not been enrolled in school within the last two years and are seeking to earn a bachelor’s degree are eligible to apple. Participants must earn under $40,000 per year or $80,000 filing jointly.

For more information visit https://dhewd.mo.gov/initiatives/fast_track.php.

Ozarks Technical Community College

OTC is a community college in Springfield, Missouri. Students can earn a one-year certificate, two-year Associate of Applied Science degree or Associate of Arts degree. They also have a variety of apprenticeship programs. For more information visit https://www.otc.edu/ or call 417-447-7500.

Missouri State University

MSU is a public, comprehensive university system with a mission in public affairs. Their purpose is to develop fully educated persons with a focus on ethical leadership, cultural competence and community engagement. For more information visit https://www.missouristate.edu/ or call 417-836-5000.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES Community Health Advocates | Springfield-Greene County Health Department

Community Health Advocates help individuals navigate Springfield resources and work with individuals to determine their needs and provide personalized referrals to employee assistance, affordable housing, healthcare, pregnancy and parenting services, education, disability services and childcare assistance. To make a referral visit: https://www.springfieldmo.gov/CHAreferral or call 417-874-2477.

U.S. Census 2020

The U.S. 2020 Census invitations began arriving at households March 12. For the first time, nearly everyone will be invited to respond online, by phone, or by mail. Along with the invitation, households will receive a census overview, description of language assistance in English and 12 additional languages, and a census ID number. More information about when most people will receive their invitations can be found at 2020census.gov. https://2020census.gov/en.html?utm_campaign=20200312msprts1ccpupnl&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

Prosper Springfield Website: “Get Help & Get Informed”

This website has information on current resources and services available in the Springfield/Greene County area. Click “Get Help” to find information related to almost any area of need related to education, health, housing, job/financial assistance and transportation.

Please visit: www.prosperspringfield.org.

More resources listed online at: unitenewsonline.org

EDUCATION PRE-K TO 12TH GRADE AND BEYOND HIGH SCHOOL • RENT OR MORTGAGE ASSISTANCE • CHILD CARE & TUTORING

Unite News Building Empowering Connections | Page 15

Watch our Virtual Festival on Facebook Page: SGFMulticulturalFestival

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Also Watch our Virtual Festival on Website Page: smfinfo.com