June 2012Volume 22/ Number 6

•A Monthly Publication by

Unite. of SouthwestMissouri, Inc

•www.unitenewsonline.org

Building Empowering Connections In Our Diverse Community

UNITE.Neal Chosen To Be Inducted

Into Sports Hall Of Fameby Mia Jackson HuskissonUnite Contributing Writer

Evangel University’s Wom-en’s Basketball Head Coach , Leon Neal has been chosen as a 2012 Springfield Area Sports Hall of Fame inductee. Neal becomes the third ever from Evangel to be inducted into the Springfield Sports Hall of Fame. “Being a black man is not easy, so I don’t take this achievement lightly,” Neal said. Neal said the door has been opened for others who might think they can’t follow in his footsteps. “Black young men should look at me and see that with their God-given talents they can do it too, Neal said. Anyone has the capacity to be great.”Neal has spent 18 years as Evangel’s head women's bas-ketball coach. He said his coaching suc-cess has been the result of a lot of hard work, discipline and wisdom from God. Hard work has resulted in Neal’s unprecedented success which includes a career record of 380-208, eight conference championships, nine NAIA national tournament champion-ships, two NAIA Final Fours , and being named Heart of America coach of the year six

coaching goes beyond basket-ball fundamentals because he strives to give his players tools for life. Neal explained that service is an important part of his life. Recently, Neal and Evan-gel women’s basketball team returned from a service trip to Guatemala. He is also actively involved in Springfield Police Department’s gang task force and regularly speaks to youth about drug and alcohol abuse. “I hope what I have done over time, will place me in God’s Hall of Fame,” Neal said. The induction ceremony is scheduled for September 25th at University Plaza. For more information please contact Evangel Athletics at 865-2815.

times. “Basketball is a metaphor of life, Neal said. There are fail-ures and successes. You can’t be afraid to fail.” Neal’s success began long be-fore he became Evangel’s head coach. He played for Evangel. In fact, Neal still holds the record for the second highest total points scored in a single season. Neal also played profession-ally in Europe for seven years. “I’ve learned that preparation will take you a lot farther than talent,” Neal said. His success in part, can be credited to three principles he lives by: be strong in your faith, be true to yourself, and be passionate about your work. Neal explained that for him,

Author ReShondaTate Billingsley

To Speak July 11See page 3

Come CelebrateJuneteenth On Sat.June 16 And Share What Freedom Means To You

June Unite Page 12

Share What You Love About The Unite Publication With Your Friends & Family.Unite enriches lives and connects you with diverse news about your community you can trust and count on. Unite is now available online at unitenewsonline.org

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

NewsOnlineUNITE.

Building Empowering Connections In Our Diverse Community

Discovery Center is hosting traveling exhibit this summer RACE: Are We So Different?

roots to make history. Williams said "If President Obama can raise $700 million, surely we can raise $5 million to get Tia on the track. We have a good team and

I think with the public's help we can get Tia on the track and test-ing in two weeks. "To ensure the success of this effort to fundraise," says Hayes, CEO of Tiapower.com, "we have inked a lucrative deal with Alvin Kline, the social media guru and

continued from page 2NASCAR Driver wed success agency team to

head this unique grassroots on-line crown funding campaign." Hayes continues, "I am confi-dent that Alvin Kline along with Team Tia and the additional benefits and memorabilia we are offering the donors at Tiapower.

com should allow us the chance to find out." As Tia prepares to take the wheel, the world holds on and wonders if the communi-ty that she supports will support her. The answer awaits at the finish line.

Springfield, MO—Exhibit opened on Tuesday, May 22, 2012 at the Discovery Center of Springfield. Discovery Center of Spring-field will be among select muse-ums in the country to confront the issue of race and racism in the United States when the RACE: Are We So Different? exhibit opens. A project of Ameri-

Springfield, MO—Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. The City of Springfield, Springfield-Greene County Park Board and the Springfield Regional Arts Council invite you to celebrate and share in what freedom means to you! The event is Saturday, June 16, 2012, Noon - 6 p.m. at Silver Springs Park, 1300 N. National Ave., Springfield, MO If you are interested in con-tributing via spoken word, sing-ing, musical performances or by hosting a booth, please contact Cheryl Clay at (417)873-6386.

Continued on page 10

Disco queen Donna Summer, whose pulsing anthems such as "Last Dance," ''Love to Love You Baby" and "Bad Girl" be-came the soundtrack for a glittery age of sex, drugs, dance and flashy clothes, has died. She was 63. Her family released a statement, saying Summer died Thursday morn-

ing and that they "are at peace celebrating her extraordinary

life and her continued legacy." "Words truly can't express how much we appreciate your prayers and love for our family at this sensitive time," the statement read. She had been living in

Englewood, Fla., with her husband Bruce Sudano.

Summer came to prominence just as disco was burgeoning, and came to define the era with a string of No. 1 hits and her beauty queen looks. Disco became as much defined by her sultry, sexual vocals - her bedroom moans and sighs - as the relentless, pulsing rhythms of the music itself. "Love to Love You Baby," with its erotic moans, was her first hit and one of the most

scandalous songs of the polyes-ter-and-platform-heel era. Unlike some other stars of disco who faded as the music be-came less popular, Summer was able to grow beyond it and later segued to a pop-rock sound. She had one of her biggest hits in the 1980s with "She Works Hard For The Money," which became another anthem, this time for women's rights.

Remembering Donna Summer: The Queen of Disco (1948 - 2012)

Donna Summer

Evangel University’s Women’s Basketball Head Coach, Leon Neal

Phot

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WASHINGTON—"I would have preferred to have done this in my own way, in my own terms, without I think, there being a lot of notice to everybody." Obama said. "But all's well that ends well." Obama, who was ready to dive into and embrace Hollywood's wealthy elite at a gala fund-raising event, said he had planned to announce his sup-port for gay marriage before his party's convention in early September. But he told ABC

News that his hand was forced by Biden, though he said his

vice president spoke out in support of same-sex marriage out of a "generosity of spirit." The president made his historical endorse-ment on the eve of a sold-out fundraiser at the Los Angeles home of movie star George

Clooney. The timing of the event is creating a blockbuster confluence of high celebrity, big money and committed activism. Hollywood is home to some of

the most high-profile backers of gay marriage and the 150 do-nors who are paying $40,000 to attend Clooney's dinner will no doubt feel newly invigorated by Obama's watershed announce-ment the day before. Even though Obama doesn't have the power to make same-sex marriage legal, his an-nouncement was the first by a sitting president.

Gay rights advocates, who had long urged Obama to state his support, immediately cheered his declaration. Obama's re-election cam-paign also quickly sought to take advantage of Obama's embrace of gay marriage and draw a sharp contrast with the presi-dent's Republican rival Mitt Romney.

President Obama Announces Historic Support of Gay Marriage

Barack Obama

First Black Female NASCAR Driver Seeks SupportNationwide -- Professional racecar driver Tia Norfleet has visions of giving to a community that supports her. As the first, youngest and only African-Amer-ican female driver on the NAS-CAR circuit, Tia Norfleet has set the stage to opening the doors of diversity in a highly controver-sial and predominately male oriented sport. With lawsuits that have been filed as well by other minorities, which have accused NASCAR of racial dis-crimination, many people won-der why and how can Norfleet compete in this division of rac-ing. "It is sheer passion and in-stinct that drives this youngster to want to compete in this sport, she was born to compete," says Isaac Hayes, spokesperson/CEO of the online fund raising organization, Tiapower.com. Norfleet comes from a family with a history in racing. Her father Bobby Norfleet made his NASCAR debut at the Portland International Raceway road course on March 26, 2000, where he competed against

NASCAR driver Bill Lester mak-ing that race historical. It was the only time in NASCAR his-tory that two African-Americans drivers have competed at the same time. With many accolades of her

own including being spokesperson for the Safe America Diving program, and appear-ing in commercials such as the Verizon wireless, numerous magazine ads and radio and television

interviews. Tia Norfleet has given Black women every-where new hope in following their dreams. The million dollar question that many people ask is, will the NASCAR community ac-cept Tia for who she is, and that is according to Hayes, a true competitor. "Our goal is to raise funds needed for everyone to find out," says Edward Williams, founder of the medium sized marketing company Team Tia. Taking a page out of the country's 44th President Barack Obama's playbook, going grass-

Tia Norfleet

ROAD WORK NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Paper bids not exceeding a monetary value of $250,000 and electronic bids submitted through the BidExpress web-site for constructing or improving Route OO & 125, Job J8S2470, Greene Coun-ty, will be received by the Commission until 11:00 o'clock a.m. (prevailing local time) on 6/29/2012. Paper bids not ex-ceeding a monetary value of $250,000 addressed to: STATE OF MISSOURI, acting by and through THE MISSOURI HIGHWAYS AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION Jefferson City, Missouri will be received at the office of the Sec-retary to the Commission in the Missouri Department of Transportation Central Of-fice Building, 105 West Capitol Avenue, Jefferson City, Missouri. The proposed work includes: Grading, drainage, Op-tional paving, Add Alt. on the above state road at Rte OO & 125 intersection in Strafford, the total length of the improve-ment being 0.930 miles. Special Needs: If you have special needs addressed by the Americans with Disabilities Act, please notify Pamela Harlan, Secretary to the Commission, at (573) 751-2824 or through Missouri Relay System, TDD 1-800-735-2966, at least five (5) working days prior to the bid opening you plan to attend. The wage rates applicable to this project have been predetermined as required by law and are set forth in the appendices. When federal wage rates are applicable and included, this con-tract is subject to the "Work Hours Act of 1962," (P.L. 87-581, 76 State. 357) and implementing regulations. By virtue of statutory authority, preference shall be given on other than Federal Aid Proj-ects, to materials, products, supplies, provisions, and other articles, produced, manufactured, made or grown within the state of Missouri, where same are of a suitable character and can be obtained at reasonable market prices in the state and are of a quality suited to the purpose intended and can be secured without ad-ditional cost over foreign products orproducts of other states. The commis-sion hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively insure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertise-ment, minority business enterprises will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, ancestry, or national origin in consideration for an award. Plans and specifications may be inspected in the offices of the Commission at Jef-ferson City, or the district engineer at Springfield, Missouri. Plans may also be viewed on the Internet at http://modot.indoxservices.com/. Complete instruc-tions to bidders and bidding documents may be obtained at the Jefferson City office. All questions concerning the bid document preparation shall be directed to the Central Office – Design Division at (573) 751-2876. Bids must be on forms provided. The right is reserved to reject any or all bids. THE MISSOURI HIGH-WAYS AND TRANSPORTATION COM-MISSION Chief Engineer

Fades Barber ShopSpecializing in Fades and

other popular styles.

812 S. Glenstone AveCall to schedule an

appointment or come by.Walk-ins are welcome.

(417)832-8242

If you want to experience something new —the before and after look

of true beauty, come to: Trena’s Exquisite

Hair SalonMonday - Saturday 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

1553 N. National Ave.Call: (417) 862-1106

Chase Card ServicesMore than a Job…a Career.Open positions in our Springfield, MO Center. Join an organization recognized as one of the World’s Most Admired Companies by Fortune Magazine.

Now Available: • Customer Service Advisors • Collections • Team Manager & Team Leader

Apply today. Visit us online at careers.jpmorganchase.com.Keyword: SpringfieldMO

General Maintenance Technician

Drury University has an opening for a General

Maintenance Technician. Apply at www.drury.edu/hr, send letter and resume, or apply in person

at Drury University, Human Resources, 900 N. Benton Ave.,

Burnham Hall – Room 107, Springfield, MO 65802 EOE

Subscribe To The Unite

Publication

Call: (417) 864-7444Only $25. per year

Vacation Bible SchoolStarts Sat. June 9

2101 W. Chestnut Expwy.Springfield, MO 65802(417) 374-7179www.deliverancetemple.org

continued from page 12

Registration 10 a.m. -2 p.m.

Welcome Wagon Reception Is June 15Springfield, MO— “The Gathering” will host a “Wel-come Wagon Reception” to welcome new arrivals to the Springfield, Missouri area. The event is co-sponsored by Q’ Enoteca and Big Mom-ma’s Coffee & Espresso Bar. The welcoming will take place on June 15, 2012 at the new “C-Street Event Center” located at 306 Commercial Street, Springfield, MO 65803. The Welcome Wagon

Reception starts at 6:00 P.M. The Gathering encourag-es new residents of diverse backgrounds that moved to the Springfield area within the past 18 months to contact Wes Pratt at 417.873.6386 or wesesq@hotmail.com if you plan to attend. The Gather-ing also encourages elected and appointed officials, local businesses, community and faith-based organizations to join us in welcoming our new Springfieldians.

Step, Shuffle & Zumba!!! Come join us at the Juneteenth Celebration, Saturday, June 16 in Silver Springs Park in a community-wide demonstration of physical fitness and fun. We will be incorporating the popular Cupid Shuffle, R Kelly, Step In The Name Of Love, and the Zumba Workout. This activity is part of Project HELP which stands for: Healthy Eating, Lifestyles, and Physical Activity. It is also an effort targeting the African American community using the Project H.E.L.P principles of Healthy Eating, Physical Activity and Chronic Disease Prevention. This project is presented by the Springfield NAACP and other local collaborating organizations. This activity will start at 12:55 p.m. For more information contact Cheryl Clay, Springfield NAACP Chapter President, clay_naacp4081 or (417) 873-6386.

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Community News37th Anniversary Celebration for Bishop Jones and First Lady Dianne Foote

Tracy Carrasquillo has joined Western & Southern Financial Group

Health NewsAging and Health: You and Your Medicineby US Department of Health & Human Serives

Lifestyle & Entertainment NewsMovie & Food Review by Lyle Foster

The Unite. publication is a monthly newspaper published by Unite of Southwest Missouri, Inc. a 501(c)(3) non-profit community organization. Distribution of Unite. is by free circulation at various locations. However, request for home delivery by mail may be directed to Unite. P. O. Box 1745, Springfield, Missouri 65801 and accompanied by $25. for one year’s postage and handling. Those wishing to make a contribution or become a monthly sponsor should direct corre-spondence to the same address. Readers comments and ques-tions are welcomed. The opinions expressed in these pages do not necessarily reflect the views of Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc. “The Unite Publication in accept-ing advertising in this publication, makes no independent investigation concerning the services of products advertised and neither endorses nor recommends the same and assumes no liability therefore.” For further information, you can contact us at (417) 864-7444. Email: unitepublication@yahoo.com

PublisherUnite. of Southwest

Missouri, Inc.

Managing EditorSamuel G. Knox

Contributing WritersLyle Foster

Mia Jackson-HuskissonGwen MarshallKathleen O'Dell

PhotographyDavid HuskissonDr. David N Knox

DistributionBradley Knox

VolunteersTyra Knox

Kerri McGrewAngelor Wilkes

Volume 22, Number 6

June Unite Page 10

Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home, Inc.

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

The quality and care that you expectin 242 years of combined experience

W. Bruce HowellRobert J. LohmeyerDon R. Lohmeyer

Marquis D. Howell, JrHeather K. HowellAngela N. CollinsHarley R. Williams

Clint W. MeaseWinford R Laster

IN THIS ISSUE UNITE.

by Kathleen O’Dell ,Springfield-Greene CountyLibrary District

If you’re planning your summer schedule of activities now, be sure to pencil this Library event in: Author ReShonda Tate Billingsley will be a guest speaker at 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 11 at the Library Center. She is the national bestselling author of 21 titles, and her novel, “Let the Church Say Amen,” is being made into a movie of which she is execu-tive producer and actress Regina King is the director. Her teen books, “Nothing But Drama” and “Caught up in the Drama” are also being made into movies.ReShonda’s debut novel, “My Brother’s Keeper,” launched her career with Simon & Schuster/Pocket Books. ReShonda is a five-time winner of the National Association of Black Journalists Spirit in the Words competition. Her books have appeared on the Essence Bestseller’s list more than 20 times, and on The Wash-ington Post and Dallas Morning News Bestsellers lists.

• Has your family signed up for the Library’s Summer Reading Program yet? It runs through Aug. 4, so there’s lots of time to read and be eligible for the great prizes and reading rewards. June is also when the lineup of kids’, teen and adult free programs. Kids have Babaloo, Toucan Jam, Tommy Terrific’s Wacky Magic Show and more. Parents can find booklists for their children and online activities at

The City of Springfield offers a variety of municipal career opportunities for individuals interested in public service. Job opportunities are updated each Friday and can be accessed through a number of mediums: Web: http://www.springfieldmo.gov/jobs; or Phone: Jobs Hotline at 417-864-1606; or TV: CityView on Medicacom Cable Digital Channel 80; or In Person: visiting our offices at 840 Boonville, Room 324, Springfield, MO 65802. The City is fully committed to a policy of hiring without regard to age, sex, race, religion, national origin, or disability. The City is an equal opportunity/ affirmative action employer.

City Employment Link

Author ReShonda Tate Billingsley Guest Speaker July 11

continued on page 5

American Anthropological Asso-ciation in collaboration with the Science Museum of Minnesota, RACE will encourage museum visitors to explore the science, history, and everyday impact of race. "At the Discovery Center of Springfield we're proud to present innovative, cutting-edge exhibits," says Emily Fox, Executive Director. "RACE gives us an opportunity to step up

and be a leader in the museum community when it comes to helping visitors explore race and racism and tackle an issue that's important to our community and our country. Our visitors know we are - and always will be - a place for hands-on science learn-ing that appeals to all ages. We also want them to think and talk about important social issues in which science plays a role, and we want to give them the space and the tools to do that."The RACE exhibit is part of a larger public education project

from American Anthropological Association and funded by the Ford Foundation and the Na-tional Science Foundation. The project is intended to inform and shape the national dialogue about race. In addition to the exhibit, the initiative includes a website, educational materials, and conferences designed to share research and information with the public. Three perspectives on a wide-reaching topic The RACE exhibit addresses the topics of race and racism from three different perspec-tives. The three sections are interwoven and tell a compelling story of science with deep and lasting social impact.• Science: In this section of the exhibit, visitors will discover that human beings are more alike than any other living spe-cies, and no one gene or set of genes can support the idea of race. • History: Ideas about race have been around for hundreds of years, and they have changed over time. This section of RACE demonstrates that, throughout American history, economic interests, popular culture, sci-ence, politics, and the struggle for power have played a role in shaping our understanding of race. • Everyday experience: Though race may not be a real biological concept, it certainly is real both socially and culturally. In this section of the exhibit, visitors will explore the per-sonal experiences of race in our schools, neighborhoods, health care systems, sports and enter-tainment industries, and more. Science Museum exhibit de-velopers, designers, and fabrica-tors have worked hard to make RACE an approachable exhibit that promotes discovery, discus-sion and reflection. In addition, RACE features the photography of Minnesota photographer Wing Young Huie who specializ-

es in documenting the changing cultural landscape of the Twin Cities. His Lake Street USA project transformed six miles of Minneapolis' Lake Street into a public art project that earned national attention in 2000. Additional events during this exhibitDiscovery Center After Dark - Thursday, June 7th 6:30 - 9:30pm -- Must be 21 and older $10.00 per person. Join us for an eve-ning of fun as science comes alive - just for adults 21 + you can explore all of the exhibits and enjoy RACE: Are We So Differ-ent?• Science Cafe - planned for a Thursday in July - Sponsored by Jordan Valley Innovation Center and will be a discussion on the science of race. • Business/ Corporate Events -There are many ways your company can become engaged with this important exhibition. Discovery Center of Springfield is able to customize a corporate experience that can meet your company's goals and budget requirements. Purchase pre-paid admission tickets or reserve a group visit to compliment corporate diversity and inclusion initiatives or training.

Visitor Information RACE will be open daily in the Discovery Center and will be in 3 separate galleries on the west side in the LEED ' Gold Certified building. It will run through September 9, 2012 then continue on a tour of museums and science centers across the country. RACE could be closed during special events. Admission to RACE is includ-ed in Discovery Center general admission $9.00 for adults, $8.00 seniors, and $7.00 for children ages 3 to 15. For information on corporate events call Charlotte McCoy at 417-862-9910 Ext 713 or check our website at www.discovery-center.org

POSITION TITLE: PRESIDENT

Missouri State University seeks an experienced, dynamic leader to implement its long-range plan and help the University achieve its goal of becoming one of the premier metropolitan universities in the country.

The 11th President of Missouri State should have experience in developing relationships in a variety of key areas; leading and managing a large, complex organization; successfully manag-ing a complex and challenging financial environment; and also possess the capability to lead a strong academic community, while ensuring that students receive an outstanding education at a fair cost. The 11th President should have a demonstrated commitment to promoting a diverse environment, and also facilitate a work environment that encourages knowledge of, respect for, and development of skills to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds.

A DISTINCTIVE MISSIONMissouri State University is distinguished by its legislatively approved statewide mission in public affairs; its selective admissions criteria; its four campuses (main campus in Springfield, agricul-tural research campus in Mountain Grove, two-year campus in West Plains; and China Campus in Dalian); its broad array of academic programs from undergraduate through selected clinical doctoral programs; and nationally recognized initiatives such as the IDEA Commons, an urban innovation park that combines the creative areas of Innovation, Design, Entrepreneurship, and Art (IDEA), and includes the Jordan Valley Innovation Center.

Demographically, financially, and strategically, Missouri State University is well-positioned to face future challenges.

STRONG FOUNDATIONEnrollment continues to be strong at Missouri State, with increases 13 of the past 15 years. The current total system enrollment is nearly 23,000, including more than 3,300 graduate students and 1,300 international students. While growing, the average ACT of entering freshmen has im-proved and now stands at 24.1. Missouri State has approximately 800 full-time faculty members and a total operating budget of more than $260 million. Even in difficult economic times, the University has continued to set records for private fund-raising. Sponsored research now tops $20 million annually. With good and conservative management, the University has purposefully increased its fund balance to help address future budget issues. And, Missouri State is located in an economically diverse and growing region of the state and country.

MORE INFORMATIONFor more information about Missouri State, details about the position, the 25-year assumptions, the desired competencies, and other aspects about the Presidential Search process, visit www.missouristate.edu/presidentialsearch/.

While nominations and applications will be accepted until the 11th President is selected, inter-ested parties are encouraged to submit their application materials electronically to the address below by July 13, 2012, to receive optimal consideration. Nominations also are welcomed and encouraged.

Mr. John McAlearSecretary to the BoardMadison Hall, Room 002Missouri State University901 S. National Ave.Springfield, Missouri 65897

Missouri State University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.

PresidentialSearch@missouristate.edu phone: 417-836-4590fax: 417-836-8355

continued from page 1Race Exhibit

June Unite Page 9June Unite Page 4

Springfield, MO—Dr. Richard Todd Payne presents“A Healthy Approach to Healthy Singing” The workshop con-sists of: Weekly Hour Lesson, accompanist included. Bi-weekly group performance sessions and flexibility with Summer vacation schedules. Dr. Payne will cover:Learn to sing with a relaxed throat * Learn how to sing with your own natural voice * Learn how to increase the volume of your sound. * Learn how to sing with

more passion * Learn how to use your voice from reaching

it’s full potential * Learn how to conquer stage fright * Learn breath control Learn proper audition techniques * Learn appropriate rep-ertoire selections and so much more. For more informa-

tion contact: 217-766-9097 or email:ToddPayne@missouristate.edu The cost is $60 per lesson and is all Inclusive. There are also flexible payment options available.

CommunitySection37th Anniversary Celebration for Bishop Jones and First Lady Dianne Foote

Dr. Richard T. Payne

Mediacom is a recognized leader in the telecommunications arena, offering cutting edge technologies to our communities. We offer services such as digital cable, high definition T.V., digital video recording, and high speed internet

access. We continue to grow through the acquisition of new customers while maintaining a solid customer base.

NOW HIRING

• Direct Sales Representatives (Springfield/Joplin & surrounding areas) – Sell Mediacom services in local neighborhoods and communities serviced by Mediacom as the company’s neighborhood marketing representative. Maintain minimum sales quotas as indicated by the Sales Supervisor follow-ing company guidelines. One year of sales experience preferred.

• Installers (Joplin & Springfield) - Install cable television and high speed internet within the Joplin, Springfield and surrounding areas. The successful applicant will possess a strong technical aptitude, adept customer service attitude, satisfactory driving record, and enjoy working outdoors

Mediacom offers a competitive wage in addition to a comprehensive benefit pack-age to include paid vacation/flex/holidays, medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, matching 401K, discounted services, tuition assistance and more. A minimum of High

School Diploma/GED required for all positions.

Apply online at careers.mediacomcc.com

for immediate consideration.

Pre-employment drug screen and background check required.MEDIACOM IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The City of Spring�eld Division of Purchases welcomes all contractors and vendors to participate in the City’s bid opportu-nities for providing needed supplies, equipment, and services to the City. Information and noti�cation about bidding is open to all, and there is never a charge.

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

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

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

City of Spring�eld project bidsOpen for business – Open to all

continued from page 8Food Review is satisfied and having a great time.

Oh and by the way....just because it is a grocery store if you see a tip jar or some opportunity to show some love to the staff please do ...it is always hip to tip. I kind of look at it like this; when there is a food option that I like I don't want to take advantage of it or take it for granted because I want them to stay open for a long time so I try to always show my appreciation. I don't just assume that since it is a buffet line I don't need to show generosity.Now let me go back to the point I lightly made earlier. In the array of grocery stores it is helpful to know what you like from where. I already gave a shout out to Wal-Mart for the chicken tenders...they are good. I like Dillon's for the fried chicken...it is almost finger licking good...aw schucks...it is finger licking good I like mine every time!! But if you want to get blown away with the food offerings from sushi to Asian to homestyle to seafood to every-thing in between the Hy-Vee is a pretty spectacular place. Yes you have to deal with Battlefield and the big parking lot, but we are in a city and that goes along with it. You can satisfy every taste requirement in your family with all of the options that are available from the little ones to the big ones. Some of the dishes here are really restaurant meals in any other place but here they are ready and prepared and you can grab it and go. And yes at all of these places as they have im-proved the seating areas they have become more inviting if you want to sit down and actually eat your hot food at the grocery store. Rumor has it that the Springfield reception to Hy-Vee has been incredible and they want to get going on their sec-ond location in Stown. I get a little nervous because I don't want to see any of our traditional favorites in town negatively affected but clearly the grocery store gods are looking intently at Springfield and throwing up stores wherever they can. In the short term we all benefit with wonderful selection and great pric-ing and look for the food rotations at each store. Yes I know they have pizza and so many other foods that I haven't

going on big time and the grocery scene has drastically changed in our little town over the past few years. And they all have stepped up the prepared food game big time. The entrance of Hy-Vee into our city as well as the Price Cutter Bistro Market and now the Wal-Mart Fresh Market stores is almost creating a dizzying array of options for the local food scene. And to be candid each one has their strong points and perhaps that is the big-gest advice I can give; it is great to know what the food specialty you like from where it is. The Wal-Mart Fresh Stores have some pretty good food offerings as I have visited them in other cities and they can put out some good food though not an extensive selection. I am assuming that everyone has been to the Bistro Market down-town and that a fair number of you have gone to the new Hy-Vee on Battlefield. They cater to a differ-ent market which is understandable but each has some great options and affordable meals. The breakfast bar downtown that caters to the bar crowd late at night and everyone else in the morning is pretty good and since you can eat as much as you want pretty sweet on the price. (Just try not to raise your blood pressure on all of the pork) And the lunch and dinner bar is no joke at all with a fantastic array of options designed to satisfy the most discriminating of tastes. What I also like is the food that is cooked to or-der which is not typical for grocery fare and the chef inspired options that are available. Pretty nice!!! I am not big on olives but there is an olive bar and a great selection of cheeses and the sweets....ugh I better not say too much about the sweets because that will make me want some and they have a great selection and some of them are my favorites...and did I say they have a gelato bar. Well you get the picture and I like the people watching op-portunities from the wide expanse of glass storefront at the heart of downtown. Staff are pleasant and work hard to make sure everyone

Springfield, MO— The Faith Tabernacle Church invites the community out to share with them in celebrating the 37th Annversary for Bishop Jones and First Lady Dianne Foote and showing them just how much they are loved and appreciated! The Faith Tabernacle Apotal-ic Church family has been very blessed to be the recipients of their sacrifice and efforts. This is going to be a great event as we show our love and appreciation to these two people, who have given of themselves to this church and the Springfield Community for thirty-seven

years. Our theme for this occasion is: Relentless Pursuit “Pursu-ing the Incorruptible Prize with Excellence” I Corinthians 9:25 The dates and our guest speakers are scheduled on: Fri. Evening, June 8, 7 p.m. Bishop Mark C. Tolbert; Sat. Evening June 9, 6 p.m. Bishop Larry Baylor; Sun. Afternoon June 10, 4 p.m. District Elder Morris Brown. Organizers want to thank everyone in advance for your prayers and participation in making this a memorable celebration.

Six-Week Summer Vocal Workshop with Dr. Richard Todd Payne June 4-July 12

mentioned but I am not trying to critique the options but mention that this is a great affordable way to get a lot of options that are already prepared and everyone can get their favorite. (and by he way I like the pizza at the Wal-Mart Fresh Store) But I will mention that the stores that throw the big cook-ers out front and smoke the ribs and the brats and burgers my car automatically turns into the parking lot and I jump in line. Seriously that is one of my favorite things that the grocery stores do and it says to me that it is time to get my summer on! Plus the prices are usually pretty great. I wasn't always a fan of the gro-cery store hot meals or cold ones for that matter to take home but the game has been stepped up so much that this has become a serious force to be reckoned with in a town that

loves its food. I am not forgetting or trying to omit Harter House or Moma Jean's but this is a column on the larger grocery stores but I think it goes without saying that Moma Jeans is hitting it hard on the health and organic side but the grocery stores are trying to bark back strong as well. If you haven't why not these sum-mer months check out the many wonderful food opportunities at the many grocery store options in town. Why not just do a small grocery store tour and find the favorites for yourself? And by the way with all of these grocery dollars being spent in Stown can Whole Foods be too many years away? I'm just saying!!!Would you like to go out to dinner with me tonight? And oh did I men-tion we are going to our grocery store? 4 Forks!

June Unite Page 5June Unite Page 8

Movie Review: “Bully”

Missouri State University is currently recruiting diverse staff and faculty to add to

the growing University system.

www.missouristate.edu/jobsVacancy recording: 417-836-4683

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

Distinctive Mission, Remarkable Education

Affordable Choice, Unbeatable Value

Memorable Experiences, Lifetime Success

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

by Lyle FosterUnite Contributing Writer

Summer shout out to all the readers of this column and we have some major blockbusters com-ing out this summer so we have non-stop opportunities to see the latest action paced Hollywood money maker!!!! But first on the seri-ous side.... I received a beautiful letter from a Mrs. Norma Duncan here in Springfield and it is such an honor to make your acquain-tance. She is an avid reader of this column and the food column and I appreciate all of the kind words that she shared. Her request was to mention Bully to all of the readers. And in case you haven't read about it or seen it. This is a powerful documen-tary about this tragic problem in our society. We had a brief run of the film here in Springfield but let's keep our eyes open in case it makes it to the second run screens or when it is on the rental market. Do you know how sometimes you have to watch something because it is the right thing to do and not because it makes you feel good? This is what Bully is... a real movie about real people who have been bullied and whose lives have been horribly impacted and some-times with permanent results. According to the film over 13 million kids are bullied each year in our country and 3 million students

stay home a month from school because they are afraid due to the bullying they experience. The film is produced by Sundance and Emmy award winning filmmaker Lee Hirsch. This is an issue that we need to discuss and share with

our community and talk to our children about.The stories in this film are beyond moving... they are unspeakable. I love the power of film to inspire and change and while we usually focus on the super films there are certainly those times that we need to allow film to provoke us and to change

us for the better and Bully is one of those films. Please try to see it and talk about it and thank you Mrs. Duncan. Let me also mention that there are a few films that have passed us by but at least you can be looking out for them in other venues. Yes, the right Reverend ...the Dr. ...the Bishop T.D. Jakes is back out with another installment of the "Woman, Thou Art Loosed: On the Seventh Day" series. The movie was made in a relatively short time ( a month) and has a plot around child abduc-tion. It is based in New Orleans and has a plot involving the per-fect family until tragedy and crisis strike. Starring in the film are Blair Underwood, Sharon Leal and Nicole Behari. And before I run out of space yes I have seen The Avengers and Battleship. I will say it again... I did

see The Avengers and Battleship.Neither movie needs any help from me as the Avengers has had record breaking results and the accompa-nying frenzy. I love Samuel Jackson but the black coats are getting old... time for a wardrobe change... lol... he is always a solid actor and the super heroes... well a little too much and the humor..please leave to the comedians. I hate to go here but this time I started to wonder do any people of color have super pow-ers? I really didn't even get into the movie until the last 40 minutes when New York city was blow-ing up. But of course I get it we have to have a few of those movies every year and now we have had it for 2012 but the way it ended we can bet on another installment as soon as the computer graphics folks can reboot. And I am nervous about giv-ing my opinion about Battleship because there maybe some Rihanna fans about. First the movie is totally mindless entertain-ment... I am getting worried that if we get another movie about aliens

LifeStyle&EntertainmentNews

from outer space that they really are going to come to Earth to just set the record straight. But the fight and pot of this lizard creature encounter was almost preposter-ous. And Rihanna is a force on the music stage but she doesn't have a career yet as an actress.

Suggestion to Hollywood... give mega stars a small well acted role and put them in classes and development for larger roles until they are ready. Plus there are so many talented folks who need to get a chance for a break-through role. Is it all about the money?... Dumb question... answer... yes. Well you can save yours and

wait for it at the Palace Theatre or on Redbox.Try to see Bully and T. D. Jakes and see you next month... and yes we have Men in Black 3 (can you believe they are doing another one of those... answer yes... I'm not mad at you Will) Batman and Spiderman and who knows what else in the next few months... so it's gonna be fun.!

continued from page 3Library

Every First Tuesday of the Month

Minorities In Businessmonthly networking meeting

What: Networking & Guest Speaker When: 5:15 p.m. Where: Q Enoteca • Anyone interested in business is welcome.

308 West Commercial StreetFor more information call: (417) 861-0760

by Mia Jackson- HuskissonUnite Contributing Writer

Tracy Carrasquillo has joined Western & Southern Financial Group as a sales representative serving southwest Missouri. “I make sure my services are of benefit and importance to my clients,” Carrasquillo said. Carrasquillo customizes finan-cial plans for families and indi-viduals which include supple-mental life insurance, annuities, and IRAs. She encourages individuals to evaluate their own financial stability and make budget ad-justments that ensure financial stability during difficult times. “I discourage impulse buys, they don’t usually end up covering all the needs, Carrasquillo said. Take time to see what is going on in your situation.”Additionally, Carrasquillo assists small businesses in creating

© 2012

some of you at the Wal-Mart getting those chicken tenders!!! I'm keep-ing it real here. I have a few grocery stores that I go to for a sneak meal...do you know what a sneak meal is...that is when you go out to eat and you hope nobody sees you...hahaha. I go to one grocery store for the breakfast bar and to another for a turkey burger on occasion. So as we march into summer I want to talk about some options that

are great so you don't have to spend all of the nice summer weather cooking in your kitchen and also at an affordable price... let's face it, Stown is all about the casual and sometimes you are hungry but not quite into the getting ready to go out and go through the whole wait thing to get your eat on. Also in case you haven't noticed there is a grocery store war go-

“Grocery Store Eating”— Food Review

continued on page 9

Tracy Carrasquillo

benefits plans. Carrasquillo is a St. Louis, Missouri native. She has lived in Springfield for approximately one year. During her spare time Car-rasquillo enjoys spending time with family, traveling, outdoor activities, and cheering on the Pittsburg Steelers. For a free financial evaluation or additional information you may contact her at (417) 379-0337.

Tracy Carrasquillo has joined Western & Southern Financial Group

Vacation Bible School Starts At Deliverance Temple Sat. June 9

thelibrary.org/dreambig. Teens have special programs including local teen rock band Supercharge! in concert June 15 and June 22. A booklist and registration form is at thelibrary.org/ownthenight. They can enter weekly drawings for fun prizes, and an Aug. 6 drawing will award one winner a nook.

Adults can register for their program at any library branch and Mobile Library and enter weekly drawings. The grand prize drawing after Aug. 4 will award a $50 gift certificate to the Between Friends Gift Shops to one person at each branch. The full lineup for all ages is in the Bookends catalog, available at every library branch and the Mobile Library. Or go to theli-brary.org/programs.

Lyle Foster

by Lyle FosterUnite Contributing Writer

Yes you read it right and it is not always a popular thing to admit but the idea of eating a meal at the grocery store is a hip thing to do for more and more people now. Why? Why not? Grocery stores have been stepping up their game for quite awhile now and the increasing focus on take-out food, cooking classes,

gourmet offerings, food bars and ever more popular menus makes grocery store shopping nothing like it was when our mothers used to take us by the hand screaming through the cereal aisles!!!! You remember that don't you? And if we are really honest we probably have found ourselves even occasionally heading to the grocery store for a meal... yes tell the truth and shame the devil. I have seen

Springfield, MO—Deliverance Temple Ministries, 2101 West Chestnut Expressway, Spring-field, MO will host a Vacation Bible School Carnival and Regis-tration at the church campus on Saturday, June 9th, from 10 a.m. To 2 p.m. This registration is for the upcoming Vacation Bible School for all youth ages 3 to 14. The Carnival/Registration Day will consists of a bounce house, face painting, basketball, sac races and refreshments. Vacation Bible School will begin June 13 – 15 (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday) from 6 p.m. to

8 p.m. nightly. Each evening will be filled with Bible adventures, music, refreshments and loads of fun. All kids ages 3 to 14 will need to be registred on Satur-day, June 9th For more information about the registration and the Vacation Bible School call 417-374-7179 or 417-865-4338. Deliverance Temple Minis-tries: Bishop David Knox, Jr. Senior Pastor; Pastor David Huskisson, Director of Christian Education; Dr. Pearl Green, VBS Director

June Unite Page 6

by US Department of Health & Human Services

As you age, it is important to know about your medicines to avoid possible problems. As you get older you may be faced with more health conditions that you need to treat on a regular basis. It is important to be aware that more use of medicines and nor-mal body changes caused by aging can increase the chance of unwanted or maybe even harm-ful drug interactions. The more you know about your medicines and the more you talk with your health care professionals, the easier it is to avoid problems with medicines. As you age, body changes can affect the way medicines are absorbed and used. For exam-ple, changes in the digestive system can affect how fast medi-cines enter the bloodstream. Changes in body weight can influence the amount of medi-cine you need to take and how long it stays in your body. The circulation system may slow down, which can affect how fast drugs get to the liver and kid-neys. The liver and kidneys also may work more slowly affecting the way a drug breaks down and is removed from the body. Because of these body changes, there is also a bigger risk of drug interactions for older adults. Drug-drug interac-tions happen when two or more medicines react with each other to cause unwanted effects. This kind of interaction can also cause one medicine to not work as well or even make one medi-cine stronger than it should be.

For example, you should not take aspirin if you are taking a prescription blood thinner, such as Warfarin, unless your health care professional tells you to. Drug-condition interactions

happen when a medical condi-tion you already have makes certain drugs potentially harm-ful. For example, if you have high blood pressure or asthma, you could have an unwanted reaction if you take a nasal decongestant. Drug-food interactions result from drugs reacting with foods or drinks. In some cases, food in the digestive track can affect how a drug is absorbed. Some medicines also may affect the way nutrients are absorbed or used in the body. Drug-alcohol interactions can happen when the medicine you take reacts with an alcoholic drink. For instance, mixing alco-hol with some medicines may cause you to feel tired and slow your reactions. It is important to know that many medicines do not mix well with alcohol. As you grow older, your body may react differently

Aging and Health: You and Your Medicines

June Unite Page 7

Health & MentalFitness

to alcohol, as well as to the mix of alcohol and medicines. Keep in mind that some problems you might think are medicine-related, such as loss of coordina-tion, memory loss, or irritability,

could be the result of a mix between your medi-cine and alco-hol. For more informa-tion about alcohol and medicines, visit the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental

Health Services Administration.

What Are Side Effects? Some medicines can interact with other medicines, foods, drinks or health conditions. Side effects are unplanned symp-toms or feelings you have when taking a medicine. Most side effects are not serious and go away on their own; others can be more bothersome and even serious. To help prevent pos-sible problems with medicines, seniors must know about the medicine they take and how it makes them feel. Keep track of side effects to help your doctor know how your body is responding to a medi-cine. New symptoms or mood changes may not be a result of getting older but could be from the medicine you're taking or another factor, such as a change in diet or routine. If you have an

A Directory of local and regional healthresourcesAIDS Federal hotline; 24 hours a day, everyday, including holidays.1-800-590-AIDS (2437) Local office: 417-881-1900

Alzheimer’s Disease1-800-272-3900

American Stroke AssociationLearn more about strokes by calling1-888-4-STROKE

Cancer Resource Network1-800-227-2345

Diabetes HotlineDivision of Cox Medical Center North 417-269-3737

Medicare InformationMedicare Information Hotline1-800-494-7355

Mental Health Crisis HotlineCounseling needs & crisis intervention1-800-494-7355

National Parkinson FoundationEducation, announcements, links to related sites1-800-327-4545www.parkinson.org

OTC Dental Hygiene ClinicProvides low cost dental care for adults and children; performed by students under the supervi-sion 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 HealthThe mission is to eliminate health disparities through assertive lead-ership, advocacy support, and visible interaction with minority communities in Missouri.The Southwest Alliance meet-ing is held every other month on the last Tuesday at 12:00 p.m.in Springfield at the Deliverance Temple Campus 2101 W. ChestnutExpwy. Call: 1-800-877-3180

unwanted side effect, call your doctor right away.

Talk to Your Health Care Professionals It is important to go to all of your medical appointments and to talk to your team of health care professionals (doctors, pharmacists, nurses, or physi-cian assistants) about your medi-cal conditions, the medicines you take, and any health con-cerns you have. It may help to make a list of comments, questions, or con-cerns before your visit or call to a health care professional. Also, think about having a close friend or relative come to your appoint-ment with you if you are unsure about talking to your health care professional or would like someone to help you understand and/or remember answers to your questions.

Here are some other things to keep in mind: All Medicines Count: Tell your team of health care profes-sionals about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, such as pain relievers, antacids, cold medicines, and laxatives. Don't forget to include eye drops, dietary supplements, vitamins, herbals, and topical medicines, such as creams and ointments. Keep in Touch with Your Doctors: If you regularly take a prescription medicine, ask your doctor to check how well it is working, whether you still need to take it, and, if so, whether there is anything you can do (like lowering fats in your diet or exercising more) to cut back or, in time, stop needing the medicine. Don't stop taking the medicine on your own without first talking with your doctor. Medical History: Tell your

health care professional about your medical history. The doctor will want to know if you have any food, medicine, or other aller-gies. He or she also will want to know about other conditions you have or had and how you are being treated or were treated for them by other doctors. It is help-ful to keep a written list of your health conditions that you can easily share with your doctors. Your primary care doctor should also know about any specialist doctors you may see on a regular basis. Eating Habits: Mention your eating habits. If you fol-low or have recently changed to a special diet (a very low-fat diet, for instance, or a high-cal-cium diet), talk to your doctor about this. Tell your doctor how much coffee, tea, or alcohol you drink each day and whether you smoke. These things may make a difference in the way your medicine works. Tell your health professionals about your medical history and about all medicines or supplements you take. Recognizing and Remembering to Take Your Medicines: Let your health care professional know if you have trouble telling your medicines apart. The doctor can help you find better ways to recognize your medicines. Also tell your doctor if you have problems remembering when to take your medicines or how much to take. Your doctor may have some ideas to help, such as a calendar or pill box. Put It in Writing: Ask your health care professional to write out a complete medicine sched-ule, with directions on exactly when and how to take your medicines. Find out from your primary care doctor how your medicine schedule should be changed if you see more than one doctor. For more information, contact call your doctor or contact SW Office on Aging 796-6260.

Qunci Williams, Success CoachSassy Sistah NetworkLife skill mentoring for womenin transitionsassysistahnet@aol.com417-861-3965

Calvin L. Allen, Exec. DirectorSpringfield Community Center- Family Achievement AcademyCorner of Sherman Ave/Division StSpringfield, MO 65803417-866-4359

Cheryl Clay, PresidentSpringfield Branch N.A.A.C.P. P.O. Box 8983Springfield, MO 65801(417) 873-6386Meetings are every third Saturday of the month from 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Flora (Pat) Looney, PresidentOur Night OutSocial & Charitable Org.417-866-2387

James Pike, PresidentSpringfield Reunion ClubOrganizes the Annual Park Day/Reunion Weekend1447 N. HamptonSpringfield, MO 65802417-869-0183Meeting every first Monday

Willie Carter, DirectorVictory Circle Peer Support Inc2101 W. Chestnut ExpwySpringfield, MO 65802417-894-0188Support group for men in recovery

Samuel G. KnoxUnite of SWMO, Inc.Publishes the Unite Publication; presenters of the Annual MultiCultural Festival 2101 W. Chestnut Expwy.Springfield, MO 65802Phone: 417-864-7444unitepublication@yahoo.comwww.unitenewsonline.org

Mark A. DixonBartley-Decatur Neighborhood Center918 E. CalhounSpringfield, MO 65802417-719-4300www.bartley-decatur.org

Duke WinkfieldAmerican Legion PostNorvel Stafford1339 E. Division StSpringfield, MO 65803417-862-9123

Alana Lyles, PresidentLadies Civic LeagueProvides scholarships for youthP. O. Box 8296Springfield, MO 65801

Robert Looney, Ozarks Golf Club, IncSpfld. Community Center618 N. BentonSpringfield, MO 65806

Sidney Needem, Sec.,Sherman Avenue ProjectCommittee, Inc. Housing Org.1228 N. ShermanSpringfield, MO 65802417-865-1203

W.M. Herman Burkett, Jr.Prince Hall MasonsTruth Lodge #151P.O. Box 8063Springfield, MO 65801417-890-5180

Wesley PrattThe GatheringA community action groupFor more information call 417-987-7809

Shelia Burton, PresidentLincoln Memorial CemeteryBoard, Inc.P.O. Box 9282Springfield, MO 65801417-877-0668

African American CommunityOrganizations Directory

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

continued from page 6Aging

continued from page 7

June Unite Page 6

by US Department of Health & Human Services

As you age, it is important to know about your medicines to avoid possible problems. As you get older you may be faced with more health conditions that you need to treat on a regular basis. It is important to be aware that more use of medicines and nor-mal body changes caused by aging can increase the chance of unwanted or maybe even harm-ful drug interactions. The more you know about your medicines and the more you talk with your health care professionals, the easier it is to avoid problems with medicines. As you age, body changes can affect the way medicines are absorbed and used. For exam-ple, changes in the digestive system can affect how fast medi-cines enter the bloodstream. Changes in body weight can influence the amount of medi-cine you need to take and how long it stays in your body. The circulation system may slow down, which can affect how fast drugs get to the liver and kid-neys. The liver and kidneys also may work more slowly affecting the way a drug breaks down and is removed from the body. Because of these body changes, there is also a bigger risk of drug interactions for older adults. Drug-drug interac-tions happen when two or more medicines react with each other to cause unwanted effects. This kind of interaction can also cause one medicine to not work as well or even make one medi-cine stronger than it should be.

For example, you should not take aspirin if you are taking a prescription blood thinner, such as Warfarin, unless your health care professional tells you to. Drug-condition interactions

happen when a medical condi-tion you already have makes certain drugs potentially harm-ful. For example, if you have high blood pressure or asthma, you could have an unwanted reaction if you take a nasal decongestant. Drug-food interactions result from drugs reacting with foods or drinks. In some cases, food in the digestive track can affect how a drug is absorbed. Some medicines also may affect the way nutrients are absorbed or used in the body. Drug-alcohol interactions can happen when the medicine you take reacts with an alcoholic drink. For instance, mixing alco-hol with some medicines may cause you to feel tired and slow your reactions. It is important to know that many medicines do not mix well with alcohol. As you grow older, your body may react differently

Aging and Health: You and Your Medicines

June Unite Page 7

Health & MentalFitness

to alcohol, as well as to the mix of alcohol and medicines. Keep in mind that some problems you might think are medicine-related, such as loss of coordina-tion, memory loss, or irritability,

could be the result of a mix between your medi-cine and alco-hol. For more informa-tion about alcohol and medicines, visit the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental

Health Services Administration.

What Are Side Effects? Some medicines can interact with other medicines, foods, drinks or health conditions. Side effects are unplanned symp-toms or feelings you have when taking a medicine. Most side effects are not serious and go away on their own; others can be more bothersome and even serious. To help prevent pos-sible problems with medicines, seniors must know about the medicine they take and how it makes them feel. Keep track of side effects to help your doctor know how your body is responding to a medi-cine. New symptoms or mood changes may not be a result of getting older but could be from the medicine you're taking or another factor, such as a change in diet or routine. If you have an

A Directory of local and regional healthresourcesAIDS Federal hotline; 24 hours a day, everyday, including holidays.1-800-590-AIDS (2437) Local office: 417-881-1900

Alzheimer’s Disease1-800-272-3900

American Stroke AssociationLearn more about strokes by calling1-888-4-STROKE

Cancer Resource Network1-800-227-2345

Diabetes HotlineDivision of Cox Medical Center North 417-269-3737

Medicare InformationMedicare Information Hotline1-800-494-7355

Mental Health Crisis HotlineCounseling needs & crisis intervention1-800-494-7355

National Parkinson FoundationEducation, announcements, links to related sites1-800-327-4545www.parkinson.org

OTC Dental Hygiene ClinicProvides low cost dental care for adults and children; performed by students under the supervi-sion 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 HealthThe mission is to eliminate health disparities through assertive lead-ership, advocacy support, and visible interaction with minority communities in Missouri.The Southwest Alliance meet-ing is held every other month on the last Tuesday at 12:00 p.m.in Springfield at the Deliverance Temple Campus 2101 W. ChestnutExpwy. Call: 1-800-877-3180

unwanted side effect, call your doctor right away.

Talk to Your Health Care Professionals It is important to go to all of your medical appointments and to talk to your team of health care professionals (doctors, pharmacists, nurses, or physi-cian assistants) about your medi-cal conditions, the medicines you take, and any health con-cerns you have. It may help to make a list of comments, questions, or con-cerns before your visit or call to a health care professional. Also, think about having a close friend or relative come to your appoint-ment with you if you are unsure about talking to your health care professional or would like someone to help you understand and/or remember answers to your questions.

Here are some other things to keep in mind: All Medicines Count: Tell your team of health care profes-sionals about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, such as pain relievers, antacids, cold medicines, and laxatives. Don't forget to include eye drops, dietary supplements, vitamins, herbals, and topical medicines, such as creams and ointments. Keep in Touch with Your Doctors: If you regularly take a prescription medicine, ask your doctor to check how well it is working, whether you still need to take it, and, if so, whether there is anything you can do (like lowering fats in your diet or exercising more) to cut back or, in time, stop needing the medicine. Don't stop taking the medicine on your own without first talking with your doctor. Medical History: Tell your

health care professional about your medical history. The doctor will want to know if you have any food, medicine, or other aller-gies. He or she also will want to know about other conditions you have or had and how you are being treated or were treated for them by other doctors. It is help-ful to keep a written list of your health conditions that you can easily share with your doctors. Your primary care doctor should also know about any specialist doctors you may see on a regular basis. Eating Habits: Mention your eating habits. If you fol-low or have recently changed to a special diet (a very low-fat diet, for instance, or a high-cal-cium diet), talk to your doctor about this. Tell your doctor how much coffee, tea, or alcohol you drink each day and whether you smoke. These things may make a difference in the way your medicine works. Tell your health professionals about your medical history and about all medicines or supplements you take. Recognizing and Remembering to Take Your Medicines: Let your health care professional know if you have trouble telling your medicines apart. The doctor can help you find better ways to recognize your medicines. Also tell your doctor if you have problems remembering when to take your medicines or how much to take. Your doctor may have some ideas to help, such as a calendar or pill box. Put It in Writing: Ask your health care professional to write out a complete medicine sched-ule, with directions on exactly when and how to take your medicines. Find out from your primary care doctor how your medicine schedule should be changed if you see more than one doctor. For more information, contact call your doctor or contact SW Office on Aging 796-6260.

Qunci Williams, Success CoachSassy Sistah NetworkLife skill mentoring for womenin transitionsassysistahnet@aol.com417-861-3965

Calvin L. Allen, Exec. DirectorSpringfield Community Center- Family Achievement AcademyCorner of Sherman Ave/Division StSpringfield, MO 65803417-866-4359

Cheryl Clay, PresidentSpringfield Branch N.A.A.C.P. P.O. Box 8983Springfield, MO 65801(417) 873-6386Meetings are every third Saturday of the month from 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Flora (Pat) Looney, PresidentOur Night OutSocial & Charitable Org.417-866-2387

James Pike, PresidentSpringfield Reunion ClubOrganizes the Annual Park Day/Reunion Weekend1447 N. HamptonSpringfield, MO 65802417-869-0183Meeting every first Monday

Willie Carter, DirectorVictory Circle Peer Support Inc2101 W. Chestnut ExpwySpringfield, MO 65802417-894-0188Support group for men in recovery

Samuel G. KnoxUnite of SWMO, Inc.Publishes the Unite Publication; presenters of the Annual MultiCultural Festival 2101 W. Chestnut Expwy.Springfield, MO 65802Phone: 417-864-7444unitepublication@yahoo.comwww.unitenewsonline.org

Mark A. DixonBartley-Decatur Neighborhood Center918 E. CalhounSpringfield, MO 65802417-719-4300www.bartley-decatur.org

Duke WinkfieldAmerican Legion PostNorvel Stafford1339 E. Division StSpringfield, MO 65803417-862-9123

Alana Lyles, PresidentLadies Civic LeagueProvides scholarships for youthP. O. Box 8296Springfield, MO 65801

Robert Looney, Ozarks Golf Club, IncSpfld. Community Center618 N. BentonSpringfield, MO 65806

Sidney Needem, Sec.,Sherman Avenue ProjectCommittee, Inc. Housing Org.1228 N. ShermanSpringfield, MO 65802417-865-1203

W.M. Herman Burkett, Jr.Prince Hall MasonsTruth Lodge #151P.O. Box 8063Springfield, MO 65801417-890-5180

Wesley PrattThe GatheringA community action groupFor more information call 417-987-7809

Shelia Burton, PresidentLincoln Memorial CemeteryBoard, Inc.P.O. Box 9282Springfield, MO 65801417-877-0668

African American CommunityOrganizations Directory

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

continued from page 6Aging

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June Unite Page 5June Unite Page 8

Movie Review: “Bully”

Missouri State University is currently recruiting diverse staff and faculty to add to

the growing University system.

www.missouristate.edu/jobsVacancy recording: 417-836-4683

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

Distinctive Mission, Remarkable Education

Affordable Choice, Unbeatable Value

Memorable Experiences, Lifetime Success

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

by Lyle FosterUnite Contributing Writer

Summer shout out to all the readers of this column and we have some major blockbusters com-ing out this summer so we have non-stop opportunities to see the latest action paced Hollywood money maker!!!! But first on the seri-ous side.... I received a beautiful letter from a Mrs. Norma Duncan here in Springfield and it is such an honor to make your acquain-tance. She is an avid reader of this column and the food column and I appreciate all of the kind words that she shared. Her request was to mention Bully to all of the readers. And in case you haven't read about it or seen it. This is a powerful documen-tary about this tragic problem in our society. We had a brief run of the film here in Springfield but let's keep our eyes open in case it makes it to the second run screens or when it is on the rental market. Do you know how sometimes you have to watch something because it is the right thing to do and not because it makes you feel good? This is what Bully is... a real movie about real people who have been bullied and whose lives have been horribly impacted and some-times with permanent results. According to the film over 13 million kids are bullied each year in our country and 3 million students

stay home a month from school because they are afraid due to the bullying they experience. The film is produced by Sundance and Emmy award winning filmmaker Lee Hirsch. This is an issue that we need to discuss and share with

our community and talk to our children about.The stories in this film are beyond moving... they are unspeakable. I love the power of film to inspire and change and while we usually focus on the super films there are certainly those times that we need to allow film to provoke us and to change

us for the better and Bully is one of those films. Please try to see it and talk about it and thank you Mrs. Duncan. Let me also mention that there are a few films that have passed us by but at least you can be looking out for them in other venues. Yes, the right Reverend ...the Dr. ...the Bishop T.D. Jakes is back out with another installment of the "Woman, Thou Art Loosed: On the Seventh Day" series. The movie was made in a relatively short time ( a month) and has a plot around child abduc-tion. It is based in New Orleans and has a plot involving the per-fect family until tragedy and crisis strike. Starring in the film are Blair Underwood, Sharon Leal and Nicole Behari. And before I run out of space yes I have seen The Avengers and Battleship. I will say it again... I did

see The Avengers and Battleship.Neither movie needs any help from me as the Avengers has had record breaking results and the accompa-nying frenzy. I love Samuel Jackson but the black coats are getting old... time for a wardrobe change... lol... he is always a solid actor and the super heroes... well a little too much and the humor..please leave to the comedians. I hate to go here but this time I started to wonder do any people of color have super pow-ers? I really didn't even get into the movie until the last 40 minutes when New York city was blow-ing up. But of course I get it we have to have a few of those movies every year and now we have had it for 2012 but the way it ended we can bet on another installment as soon as the computer graphics folks can reboot. And I am nervous about giv-ing my opinion about Battleship because there maybe some Rihanna fans about. First the movie is totally mindless entertain-ment... I am getting worried that if we get another movie about aliens

LifeStyle&EntertainmentNews

from outer space that they really are going to come to Earth to just set the record straight. But the fight and pot of this lizard creature encounter was almost preposter-ous. And Rihanna is a force on the music stage but she doesn't have a career yet as an actress.

Suggestion to Hollywood... give mega stars a small well acted role and put them in classes and development for larger roles until they are ready. Plus there are so many talented folks who need to get a chance for a break-through role. Is it all about the money?... Dumb question... answer... yes. Well you can save yours and

wait for it at the Palace Theatre or on Redbox.Try to see Bully and T. D. Jakes and see you next month... and yes we have Men in Black 3 (can you believe they are doing another one of those... answer yes... I'm not mad at you Will) Batman and Spiderman and who knows what else in the next few months... so it's gonna be fun.!

continued from page 3Library

Every First Tuesday of the Month

Minorities In Businessmonthly networking meeting

What: Networking & Guest Speaker When: 5:15 p.m. Where: Q Enoteca • Anyone interested in business is welcome.

308 West Commercial StreetFor more information call: (417) 861-0760

by Mia Jackson- HuskissonUnite Contributing Writer

Tracy Carrasquillo has joined Western & Southern Financial Group as a sales representative serving southwest Missouri. “I make sure my services are of benefit and importance to my clients,” Carrasquillo said. Carrasquillo customizes finan-cial plans for families and indi-viduals which include supple-mental life insurance, annuities, and IRAs. She encourages individuals to evaluate their own financial stability and make budget ad-justments that ensure financial stability during difficult times. “I discourage impulse buys, they don’t usually end up covering all the needs, Carrasquillo said. Take time to see what is going on in your situation.”Additionally, Carrasquillo assists small businesses in creating

© 2012

some of you at the Wal-Mart getting those chicken tenders!!! I'm keep-ing it real here. I have a few grocery stores that I go to for a sneak meal...do you know what a sneak meal is...that is when you go out to eat and you hope nobody sees you...hahaha. I go to one grocery store for the breakfast bar and to another for a turkey burger on occasion. So as we march into summer I want to talk about some options that

are great so you don't have to spend all of the nice summer weather cooking in your kitchen and also at an affordable price... let's face it, Stown is all about the casual and sometimes you are hungry but not quite into the getting ready to go out and go through the whole wait thing to get your eat on. Also in case you haven't noticed there is a grocery store war go-

“Grocery Store Eating”— Food Review

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Tracy Carrasquillo

benefits plans. Carrasquillo is a St. Louis, Missouri native. She has lived in Springfield for approximately one year. During her spare time Car-rasquillo enjoys spending time with family, traveling, outdoor activities, and cheering on the Pittsburg Steelers. For a free financial evaluation or additional information you may contact her at (417) 379-0337.

Tracy Carrasquillo has joined Western & Southern Financial Group

Vacation Bible School Starts At Deliverance Temple Sat. June 9

thelibrary.org/dreambig. Teens have special programs including local teen rock band Supercharge! in concert June 15 and June 22. A booklist and registration form is at thelibrary.org/ownthenight. They can enter weekly drawings for fun prizes, and an Aug. 6 drawing will award one winner a nook.

Adults can register for their program at any library branch and Mobile Library and enter weekly drawings. The grand prize drawing after Aug. 4 will award a $50 gift certificate to the Between Friends Gift Shops to one person at each branch. The full lineup for all ages is in the Bookends catalog, available at every library branch and the Mobile Library. Or go to theli-brary.org/programs.

Lyle Foster

by Lyle FosterUnite Contributing Writer

Yes you read it right and it is not always a popular thing to admit but the idea of eating a meal at the grocery store is a hip thing to do for more and more people now. Why? Why not? Grocery stores have been stepping up their game for quite awhile now and the increasing focus on take-out food, cooking classes,

gourmet offerings, food bars and ever more popular menus makes grocery store shopping nothing like it was when our mothers used to take us by the hand screaming through the cereal aisles!!!! You remember that don't you? And if we are really honest we probably have found ourselves even occasionally heading to the grocery store for a meal... yes tell the truth and shame the devil. I have seen

Springfield, MO—Deliverance Temple Ministries, 2101 West Chestnut Expressway, Spring-field, MO will host a Vacation Bible School Carnival and Regis-tration at the church campus on Saturday, June 9th, from 10 a.m. To 2 p.m. This registration is for the upcoming Vacation Bible School for all youth ages 3 to 14. The Carnival/Registration Day will consists of a bounce house, face painting, basketball, sac races and refreshments. Vacation Bible School will begin June 13 – 15 (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday) from 6 p.m. to

8 p.m. nightly. Each evening will be filled with Bible adventures, music, refreshments and loads of fun. All kids ages 3 to 14 will need to be registred on Satur-day, June 9th For more information about the registration and the Vacation Bible School call 417-374-7179 or 417-865-4338. Deliverance Temple Minis-tries: Bishop David Knox, Jr. Senior Pastor; Pastor David Huskisson, Director of Christian Education; Dr. Pearl Green, VBS Director

June Unite Page 9June Unite Page 4

Springfield, MO—Dr. Richard Todd Payne presents“A Healthy Approach to Healthy Singing” The workshop con-sists of: Weekly Hour Lesson, accompanist included. Bi-weekly group performance sessions and flexibility with Summer vacation schedules. Dr. Payne will cover:Learn to sing with a relaxed throat * Learn how to sing with your own natural voice * Learn how to increase the volume of your sound. * Learn how to sing with

more passion * Learn how to use your voice from reaching

it’s full potential * Learn how to conquer stage fright * Learn breath control Learn proper audition techniques * Learn appropriate rep-ertoire selections and so much more. For more informa-

tion contact: 217-766-9097 or email:ToddPayne@missouristate.edu The cost is $60 per lesson and is all Inclusive. There are also flexible payment options available.

CommunitySection37th Anniversary Celebration for Bishop Jones and First Lady Dianne Foote

Dr. Richard T. Payne

Mediacom is a recognized leader in the telecommunications arena, offering cutting edge technologies to our communities. We offer services such as digital cable, high definition T.V., digital video recording, and high speed internet

access. We continue to grow through the acquisition of new customers while maintaining a solid customer base.

NOW HIRING

• Direct Sales Representatives (Springfield/Joplin & surrounding areas) – Sell Mediacom services in local neighborhoods and communities serviced by Mediacom as the company’s neighborhood marketing representative. Maintain minimum sales quotas as indicated by the Sales Supervisor follow-ing company guidelines. One year of sales experience preferred.

• Installers (Joplin & Springfield) - Install cable television and high speed internet within the Joplin, Springfield and surrounding areas. The successful applicant will possess a strong technical aptitude, adept customer service attitude, satisfactory driving record, and enjoy working outdoors

Mediacom offers a competitive wage in addition to a comprehensive benefit pack-age to include paid vacation/flex/holidays, medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, matching 401K, discounted services, tuition assistance and more. A minimum of High

School Diploma/GED required for all positions.

Apply online at careers.mediacomcc.com

for immediate consideration.

Pre-employment drug screen and background check required.MEDIACOM IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The City of Spring�eld Division of Purchases welcomes all contractors and vendors to participate in the City’s bid opportu-nities for providing needed supplies, equipment, and services to the City. Information and noti�cation about bidding is open to all, and there is never a charge.

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

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

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

City of Spring�eld project bidsOpen for business – Open to all

continued from page 8Food Review is satisfied and having a great time.

Oh and by the way....just because it is a grocery store if you see a tip jar or some opportunity to show some love to the staff please do ...it is always hip to tip. I kind of look at it like this; when there is a food option that I like I don't want to take advantage of it or take it for granted because I want them to stay open for a long time so I try to always show my appreciation. I don't just assume that since it is a buffet line I don't need to show generosity.Now let me go back to the point I lightly made earlier. In the array of grocery stores it is helpful to know what you like from where. I already gave a shout out to Wal-Mart for the chicken tenders...they are good. I like Dillon's for the fried chicken...it is almost finger licking good...aw schucks...it is finger licking good I like mine every time!! But if you want to get blown away with the food offerings from sushi to Asian to homestyle to seafood to every-thing in between the Hy-Vee is a pretty spectacular place. Yes you have to deal with Battlefield and the big parking lot, but we are in a city and that goes along with it. You can satisfy every taste requirement in your family with all of the options that are available from the little ones to the big ones. Some of the dishes here are really restaurant meals in any other place but here they are ready and prepared and you can grab it and go. And yes at all of these places as they have im-proved the seating areas they have become more inviting if you want to sit down and actually eat your hot food at the grocery store. Rumor has it that the Springfield reception to Hy-Vee has been incredible and they want to get going on their sec-ond location in Stown. I get a little nervous because I don't want to see any of our traditional favorites in town negatively affected but clearly the grocery store gods are looking intently at Springfield and throwing up stores wherever they can. In the short term we all benefit with wonderful selection and great pric-ing and look for the food rotations at each store. Yes I know they have pizza and so many other foods that I haven't

going on big time and the grocery scene has drastically changed in our little town over the past few years. And they all have stepped up the prepared food game big time. The entrance of Hy-Vee into our city as well as the Price Cutter Bistro Market and now the Wal-Mart Fresh Market stores is almost creating a dizzying array of options for the local food scene. And to be candid each one has their strong points and perhaps that is the big-gest advice I can give; it is great to know what the food specialty you like from where it is. The Wal-Mart Fresh Stores have some pretty good food offerings as I have visited them in other cities and they can put out some good food though not an extensive selection. I am assuming that everyone has been to the Bistro Market down-town and that a fair number of you have gone to the new Hy-Vee on Battlefield. They cater to a differ-ent market which is understandable but each has some great options and affordable meals. The breakfast bar downtown that caters to the bar crowd late at night and everyone else in the morning is pretty good and since you can eat as much as you want pretty sweet on the price. (Just try not to raise your blood pressure on all of the pork) And the lunch and dinner bar is no joke at all with a fantastic array of options designed to satisfy the most discriminating of tastes. What I also like is the food that is cooked to or-der which is not typical for grocery fare and the chef inspired options that are available. Pretty nice!!! I am not big on olives but there is an olive bar and a great selection of cheeses and the sweets....ugh I better not say too much about the sweets because that will make me want some and they have a great selection and some of them are my favorites...and did I say they have a gelato bar. Well you get the picture and I like the people watching op-portunities from the wide expanse of glass storefront at the heart of downtown. Staff are pleasant and work hard to make sure everyone

Springfield, MO— The Faith Tabernacle Church invites the community out to share with them in celebrating the 37th Annversary for Bishop Jones and First Lady Dianne Foote and showing them just how much they are loved and appreciated! The Faith Tabernacle Apotal-ic Church family has been very blessed to be the recipients of their sacrifice and efforts. This is going to be a great event as we show our love and appreciation to these two people, who have given of themselves to this church and the Springfield Community for thirty-seven

years. Our theme for this occasion is: Relentless Pursuit “Pursu-ing the Incorruptible Prize with Excellence” I Corinthians 9:25 The dates and our guest speakers are scheduled on: Fri. Evening, June 8, 7 p.m. Bishop Mark C. Tolbert; Sat. Evening June 9, 6 p.m. Bishop Larry Baylor; Sun. Afternoon June 10, 4 p.m. District Elder Morris Brown. Organizers want to thank everyone in advance for your prayers and participation in making this a memorable celebration.

Six-Week Summer Vocal Workshop with Dr. Richard Todd Payne June 4-July 12

mentioned but I am not trying to critique the options but mention that this is a great affordable way to get a lot of options that are already prepared and everyone can get their favorite. (and by he way I like the pizza at the Wal-Mart Fresh Store) But I will mention that the stores that throw the big cook-ers out front and smoke the ribs and the brats and burgers my car automatically turns into the parking lot and I jump in line. Seriously that is one of my favorite things that the grocery stores do and it says to me that it is time to get my summer on! Plus the prices are usually pretty great. I wasn't always a fan of the gro-cery store hot meals or cold ones for that matter to take home but the game has been stepped up so much that this has become a serious force to be reckoned with in a town that

loves its food. I am not forgetting or trying to omit Harter House or Moma Jean's but this is a column on the larger grocery stores but I think it goes without saying that Moma Jeans is hitting it hard on the health and organic side but the grocery stores are trying to bark back strong as well. If you haven't why not these sum-mer months check out the many wonderful food opportunities at the many grocery store options in town. Why not just do a small grocery store tour and find the favorites for yourself? And by the way with all of these grocery dollars being spent in Stown can Whole Foods be too many years away? I'm just saying!!!Would you like to go out to dinner with me tonight? And oh did I men-tion we are going to our grocery store? 4 Forks!

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Community News37th Anniversary Celebration for Bishop Jones and First Lady Dianne Foote

Tracy Carrasquillo has joined Western & Southern Financial Group

Health NewsAging and Health: You and Your Medicineby US Department of Health & Human Serives

Lifestyle & Entertainment NewsMovie & Food Review by Lyle Foster

The Unite. publication is a monthly newspaper published by Unite of Southwest Missouri, Inc. a 501(c)(3) non-profit community organization. Distribution of Unite. is by free circulation at various locations. However, request for home delivery by mail may be directed to Unite. P. O. Box 1745, Springfield, Missouri 65801 and accompanied by $25. for one year’s postage and handling. Those wishing to make a contribution or become a monthly sponsor should direct corre-spondence to the same address. Readers comments and ques-tions are welcomed. The opinions expressed in these pages do not necessarily reflect the views of Unite. of Southwest Missouri, Inc. “The Unite Publication in accept-ing advertising in this publication, makes no independent investigation concerning the services of products advertised and neither endorses nor recommends the same and assumes no liability therefore.” For further information, you can contact us at (417) 864-7444. Email: unitepublication@yahoo.com

PublisherUnite. of Southwest

Missouri, Inc.

Managing EditorSamuel G. Knox

Contributing WritersLyle Foster

Mia Jackson-HuskissonGwen MarshallKathleen O'Dell

PhotographyDavid HuskissonDr. David N Knox

DistributionBradley Knox

VolunteersTyra Knox

Kerri McGrewAngelor Wilkes

Volume 22, Number 6

June Unite Page 10

Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home, Inc.

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

The quality and care that you expectin 242 years of combined experience

W. Bruce HowellRobert J. LohmeyerDon R. Lohmeyer

Marquis D. Howell, JrHeather K. HowellAngela N. CollinsHarley R. Williams

Clint W. MeaseWinford R Laster

IN THIS ISSUE UNITE.

by Kathleen O’Dell ,Springfield-Greene CountyLibrary District

If you’re planning your summer schedule of activities now, be sure to pencil this Library event in: Author ReShonda Tate Billingsley will be a guest speaker at 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 11 at the Library Center. She is the national bestselling author of 21 titles, and her novel, “Let the Church Say Amen,” is being made into a movie of which she is execu-tive producer and actress Regina King is the director. Her teen books, “Nothing But Drama” and “Caught up in the Drama” are also being made into movies.ReShonda’s debut novel, “My Brother’s Keeper,” launched her career with Simon & Schuster/Pocket Books. ReShonda is a five-time winner of the National Association of Black Journalists Spirit in the Words competition. Her books have appeared on the Essence Bestseller’s list more than 20 times, and on The Wash-ington Post and Dallas Morning News Bestsellers lists.

• Has your family signed up for the Library’s Summer Reading Program yet? It runs through Aug. 4, so there’s lots of time to read and be eligible for the great prizes and reading rewards. June is also when the lineup of kids’, teen and adult free programs. Kids have Babaloo, Toucan Jam, Tommy Terrific’s Wacky Magic Show and more. Parents can find booklists for their children and online activities at

The City of Springfield offers a variety of municipal career opportunities for individuals interested in public service. Job opportunities are updated each Friday and can be accessed through a number of mediums: Web: http://www.springfieldmo.gov/jobs; or Phone: Jobs Hotline at 417-864-1606; or TV: CityView on Medicacom Cable Digital Channel 80; or In Person: visiting our offices at 840 Boonville, Room 324, Springfield, MO 65802. The City is fully committed to a policy of hiring without regard to age, sex, race, religion, national origin, or disability. The City is an equal opportunity/ affirmative action employer.

City Employment Link

Author ReShonda Tate Billingsley Guest Speaker July 11

continued on page 5

American Anthropological Asso-ciation in collaboration with the Science Museum of Minnesota, RACE will encourage museum visitors to explore the science, history, and everyday impact of race. "At the Discovery Center of Springfield we're proud to present innovative, cutting-edge exhibits," says Emily Fox, Executive Director. "RACE gives us an opportunity to step up

and be a leader in the museum community when it comes to helping visitors explore race and racism and tackle an issue that's important to our community and our country. Our visitors know we are - and always will be - a place for hands-on science learn-ing that appeals to all ages. We also want them to think and talk about important social issues in which science plays a role, and we want to give them the space and the tools to do that."The RACE exhibit is part of a larger public education project

from American Anthropological Association and funded by the Ford Foundation and the Na-tional Science Foundation. The project is intended to inform and shape the national dialogue about race. In addition to the exhibit, the initiative includes a website, educational materials, and conferences designed to share research and information with the public. Three perspectives on a wide-reaching topic The RACE exhibit addresses the topics of race and racism from three different perspec-tives. The three sections are interwoven and tell a compelling story of science with deep and lasting social impact.• Science: In this section of the exhibit, visitors will discover that human beings are more alike than any other living spe-cies, and no one gene or set of genes can support the idea of race. • History: Ideas about race have been around for hundreds of years, and they have changed over time. This section of RACE demonstrates that, throughout American history, economic interests, popular culture, sci-ence, politics, and the struggle for power have played a role in shaping our understanding of race. • Everyday experience: Though race may not be a real biological concept, it certainly is real both socially and culturally. In this section of the exhibit, visitors will explore the per-sonal experiences of race in our schools, neighborhoods, health care systems, sports and enter-tainment industries, and more. Science Museum exhibit de-velopers, designers, and fabrica-tors have worked hard to make RACE an approachable exhibit that promotes discovery, discus-sion and reflection. In addition, RACE features the photography of Minnesota photographer Wing Young Huie who specializ-

es in documenting the changing cultural landscape of the Twin Cities. His Lake Street USA project transformed six miles of Minneapolis' Lake Street into a public art project that earned national attention in 2000. Additional events during this exhibitDiscovery Center After Dark - Thursday, June 7th 6:30 - 9:30pm -- Must be 21 and older $10.00 per person. Join us for an eve-ning of fun as science comes alive - just for adults 21 + you can explore all of the exhibits and enjoy RACE: Are We So Differ-ent?• Science Cafe - planned for a Thursday in July - Sponsored by Jordan Valley Innovation Center and will be a discussion on the science of race. • Business/ Corporate Events -There are many ways your company can become engaged with this important exhibition. Discovery Center of Springfield is able to customize a corporate experience that can meet your company's goals and budget requirements. Purchase pre-paid admission tickets or reserve a group visit to compliment corporate diversity and inclusion initiatives or training.

Visitor Information RACE will be open daily in the Discovery Center and will be in 3 separate galleries on the west side in the LEED ' Gold Certified building. It will run through September 9, 2012 then continue on a tour of museums and science centers across the country. RACE could be closed during special events. Admission to RACE is includ-ed in Discovery Center general admission $9.00 for adults, $8.00 seniors, and $7.00 for children ages 3 to 15. For information on corporate events call Charlotte McCoy at 417-862-9910 Ext 713 or check our website at www.discovery-center.org

POSITION TITLE: PRESIDENT

Missouri State University seeks an experienced, dynamic leader to implement its long-range plan and help the University achieve its goal of becoming one of the premier metropolitan universities in the country.

The 11th President of Missouri State should have experience in developing relationships in a variety of key areas; leading and managing a large, complex organization; successfully manag-ing a complex and challenging financial environment; and also possess the capability to lead a strong academic community, while ensuring that students receive an outstanding education at a fair cost. The 11th President should have a demonstrated commitment to promoting a diverse environment, and also facilitate a work environment that encourages knowledge of, respect for, and development of skills to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds.

A DISTINCTIVE MISSIONMissouri State University is distinguished by its legislatively approved statewide mission in public affairs; its selective admissions criteria; its four campuses (main campus in Springfield, agricul-tural research campus in Mountain Grove, two-year campus in West Plains; and China Campus in Dalian); its broad array of academic programs from undergraduate through selected clinical doctoral programs; and nationally recognized initiatives such as the IDEA Commons, an urban innovation park that combines the creative areas of Innovation, Design, Entrepreneurship, and Art (IDEA), and includes the Jordan Valley Innovation Center.

Demographically, financially, and strategically, Missouri State University is well-positioned to face future challenges.

STRONG FOUNDATIONEnrollment continues to be strong at Missouri State, with increases 13 of the past 15 years. The current total system enrollment is nearly 23,000, including more than 3,300 graduate students and 1,300 international students. While growing, the average ACT of entering freshmen has im-proved and now stands at 24.1. Missouri State has approximately 800 full-time faculty members and a total operating budget of more than $260 million. Even in difficult economic times, the University has continued to set records for private fund-raising. Sponsored research now tops $20 million annually. With good and conservative management, the University has purposefully increased its fund balance to help address future budget issues. And, Missouri State is located in an economically diverse and growing region of the state and country.

MORE INFORMATIONFor more information about Missouri State, details about the position, the 25-year assumptions, the desired competencies, and other aspects about the Presidential Search process, visit www.missouristate.edu/presidentialsearch/.

While nominations and applications will be accepted until the 11th President is selected, inter-ested parties are encouraged to submit their application materials electronically to the address below by July 13, 2012, to receive optimal consideration. Nominations also are welcomed and encouraged.

Mr. John McAlearSecretary to the BoardMadison Hall, Room 002Missouri State University901 S. National Ave.Springfield, Missouri 65897

Missouri State University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.

PresidentialSearch@missouristate.edu phone: 417-836-4590fax: 417-836-8355

continued from page 1Race Exhibit

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WASHINGTON—"I would have preferred to have done this in my own way, in my own terms, without I think, there being a lot of notice to everybody." Obama said. "But all's well that ends well." Obama, who was ready to dive into and embrace Hollywood's wealthy elite at a gala fund-raising event, said he had planned to announce his sup-port for gay marriage before his party's convention in early September. But he told ABC

News that his hand was forced by Biden, though he said his

vice president spoke out in support of same-sex marriage out of a "generosity of spirit." The president made his historical endorse-ment on the eve of a sold-out fundraiser at the Los Angeles home of movie star George

Clooney. The timing of the event is creating a blockbuster confluence of high celebrity, big money and committed activism. Hollywood is home to some of

the most high-profile backers of gay marriage and the 150 do-nors who are paying $40,000 to attend Clooney's dinner will no doubt feel newly invigorated by Obama's watershed announce-ment the day before. Even though Obama doesn't have the power to make same-sex marriage legal, his an-nouncement was the first by a sitting president.

Gay rights advocates, who had long urged Obama to state his support, immediately cheered his declaration. Obama's re-election cam-paign also quickly sought to take advantage of Obama's embrace of gay marriage and draw a sharp contrast with the presi-dent's Republican rival Mitt Romney.

President Obama Announces Historic Support of Gay Marriage

Barack Obama

First Black Female NASCAR Driver Seeks SupportNationwide -- Professional racecar driver Tia Norfleet has visions of giving to a community that supports her. As the first, youngest and only African-Amer-ican female driver on the NAS-CAR circuit, Tia Norfleet has set the stage to opening the doors of diversity in a highly controver-sial and predominately male oriented sport. With lawsuits that have been filed as well by other minorities, which have accused NASCAR of racial dis-crimination, many people won-der why and how can Norfleet compete in this division of rac-ing. "It is sheer passion and in-stinct that drives this youngster to want to compete in this sport, she was born to compete," says Isaac Hayes, spokesperson/CEO of the online fund raising organization, Tiapower.com. Norfleet comes from a family with a history in racing. Her father Bobby Norfleet made his NASCAR debut at the Portland International Raceway road course on March 26, 2000, where he competed against

NASCAR driver Bill Lester mak-ing that race historical. It was the only time in NASCAR his-tory that two African-Americans drivers have competed at the same time. With many accolades of her

own including being spokesperson for the Safe America Diving program, and appear-ing in commercials such as the Verizon wireless, numerous magazine ads and radio and television

interviews. Tia Norfleet has given Black women every-where new hope in following their dreams. The million dollar question that many people ask is, will the NASCAR community ac-cept Tia for who she is, and that is according to Hayes, a true competitor. "Our goal is to raise funds needed for everyone to find out," says Edward Williams, founder of the medium sized marketing company Team Tia. Taking a page out of the country's 44th President Barack Obama's playbook, going grass-

Tia Norfleet

ROAD WORK NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Paper bids not exceeding a monetary value of $250,000 and electronic bids submitted through the BidExpress web-site for constructing or improving Route OO & 125, Job J8S2470, Greene Coun-ty, will be received by the Commission until 11:00 o'clock a.m. (prevailing local time) on 6/29/2012. Paper bids not ex-ceeding a monetary value of $250,000 addressed to: STATE OF MISSOURI, acting by and through THE MISSOURI HIGHWAYS AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION Jefferson City, Missouri will be received at the office of the Sec-retary to the Commission in the Missouri Department of Transportation Central Of-fice Building, 105 West Capitol Avenue, Jefferson City, Missouri. The proposed work includes: Grading, drainage, Op-tional paving, Add Alt. on the above state road at Rte OO & 125 intersection in Strafford, the total length of the improve-ment being 0.930 miles. Special Needs: If you have special needs addressed by the Americans with Disabilities Act, please notify Pamela Harlan, Secretary to the Commission, at (573) 751-2824 or through Missouri Relay System, TDD 1-800-735-2966, at least five (5) working days prior to the bid opening you plan to attend. The wage rates applicable to this project have been predetermined as required by law and are set forth in the appendices. When federal wage rates are applicable and included, this con-tract is subject to the "Work Hours Act of 1962," (P.L. 87-581, 76 State. 357) and implementing regulations. By virtue of statutory authority, preference shall be given on other than Federal Aid Proj-ects, to materials, products, supplies, provisions, and other articles, produced, manufactured, made or grown within the state of Missouri, where same are of a suitable character and can be obtained at reasonable market prices in the state and are of a quality suited to the purpose intended and can be secured without ad-ditional cost over foreign products orproducts of other states. The commis-sion hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively insure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertise-ment, minority business enterprises will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, ancestry, or national origin in consideration for an award. Plans and specifications may be inspected in the offices of the Commission at Jef-ferson City, or the district engineer at Springfield, Missouri. Plans may also be viewed on the Internet at http://modot.indoxservices.com/. Complete instruc-tions to bidders and bidding documents may be obtained at the Jefferson City office. All questions concerning the bid document preparation shall be directed to the Central Office – Design Division at (573) 751-2876. Bids must be on forms provided. The right is reserved to reject any or all bids. THE MISSOURI HIGH-WAYS AND TRANSPORTATION COM-MISSION Chief Engineer

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Call: (417) 864-7444Only $25. per year

Vacation Bible SchoolStarts Sat. June 9

2101 W. Chestnut Expwy.Springfield, MO 65802(417) 374-7179www.deliverancetemple.org

continued from page 12

Registration 10 a.m. -2 p.m.

Welcome Wagon Reception Is June 15Springfield, MO— “The Gathering” will host a “Wel-come Wagon Reception” to welcome new arrivals to the Springfield, Missouri area. The event is co-sponsored by Q’ Enoteca and Big Mom-ma’s Coffee & Espresso Bar. The welcoming will take place on June 15, 2012 at the new “C-Street Event Center” located at 306 Commercial Street, Springfield, MO 65803. The Welcome Wagon

Reception starts at 6:00 P.M. The Gathering encourag-es new residents of diverse backgrounds that moved to the Springfield area within the past 18 months to contact Wes Pratt at 417.873.6386 or wesesq@hotmail.com if you plan to attend. The Gather-ing also encourages elected and appointed officials, local businesses, community and faith-based organizations to join us in welcoming our new Springfieldians.

Step, Shuffle & Zumba!!! Come join us at the Juneteenth Celebration, Saturday, June 16 in Silver Springs Park in a community-wide demonstration of physical fitness and fun. We will be incorporating the popular Cupid Shuffle, R Kelly, Step In The Name Of Love, and the Zumba Workout. This activity is part of Project HELP which stands for: Healthy Eating, Lifestyles, and Physical Activity. It is also an effort targeting the African American community using the Project H.E.L.P principles of Healthy Eating, Physical Activity and Chronic Disease Prevention. This project is presented by the Springfield NAACP and other local collaborating organizations. This activity will start at 12:55 p.m. For more information contact Cheryl Clay, Springfield NAACP Chapter President, clay_naacp4081 or (417) 873-6386.

June 2012Volume 22/ Number 6

•A Monthly Publication by

Unite. of SouthwestMissouri, Inc

•www.unitenewsonline.org

Building Empowering Connections In Our Diverse Community

UNITE.Neal Chosen To Be Inducted

Into Sports Hall Of Fameby Mia Jackson HuskissonUnite Contributing Writer

Evangel University’s Wom-en’s Basketball Head Coach , Leon Neal has been chosen as a 2012 Springfield Area Sports Hall of Fame inductee. Neal becomes the third ever from Evangel to be inducted into the Springfield Sports Hall of Fame. “Being a black man is not easy, so I don’t take this achievement lightly,” Neal said. Neal said the door has been opened for others who might think they can’t follow in his footsteps. “Black young men should look at me and see that with their God-given talents they can do it too, Neal said. Anyone has the capacity to be great.”Neal has spent 18 years as Evangel’s head women's bas-ketball coach. He said his coaching suc-cess has been the result of a lot of hard work, discipline and wisdom from God. Hard work has resulted in Neal’s unprecedented success which includes a career record of 380-208, eight conference championships, nine NAIA national tournament champion-ships, two NAIA Final Fours , and being named Heart of America coach of the year six

coaching goes beyond basket-ball fundamentals because he strives to give his players tools for life. Neal explained that service is an important part of his life. Recently, Neal and Evan-gel women’s basketball team returned from a service trip to Guatemala. He is also actively involved in Springfield Police Department’s gang task force and regularly speaks to youth about drug and alcohol abuse. “I hope what I have done over time, will place me in God’s Hall of Fame,” Neal said. The induction ceremony is scheduled for September 25th at University Plaza. For more information please contact Evangel Athletics at 865-2815.

times. “Basketball is a metaphor of life, Neal said. There are fail-ures and successes. You can’t be afraid to fail.” Neal’s success began long be-fore he became Evangel’s head coach. He played for Evangel. In fact, Neal still holds the record for the second highest total points scored in a single season. Neal also played profession-ally in Europe for seven years. “I’ve learned that preparation will take you a lot farther than talent,” Neal said. His success in part, can be credited to three principles he lives by: be strong in your faith, be true to yourself, and be passionate about your work. Neal explained that for him,

Author ReShondaTate Billingsley

To Speak July 11See page 3

Come CelebrateJuneteenth On Sat.June 16 And Share What Freedom Means To You

June Unite Page 12

Share What You Love About The Unite Publication With Your Friends & Family.Unite enriches lives and connects you with diverse news about your community you can trust and count on. Unite is now available online at unitenewsonline.org

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Building Empowering Connections In Our Diverse Community

Discovery Center is hosting traveling exhibit this summer RACE: Are We So Different?

roots to make history. Williams said "If President Obama can raise $700 million, surely we can raise $5 million to get Tia on the track. We have a good team and

I think with the public's help we can get Tia on the track and test-ing in two weeks. "To ensure the success of this effort to fundraise," says Hayes, CEO of Tiapower.com, "we have inked a lucrative deal with Alvin Kline, the social media guru and

continued from page 2NASCAR Driver wed success agency team to

head this unique grassroots on-line crown funding campaign." Hayes continues, "I am confi-dent that Alvin Kline along with Team Tia and the additional benefits and memorabilia we are offering the donors at Tiapower.

com should allow us the chance to find out." As Tia prepares to take the wheel, the world holds on and wonders if the communi-ty that she supports will support her. The answer awaits at the finish line.

Springfield, MO—Exhibit opened on Tuesday, May 22, 2012 at the Discovery Center of Springfield. Discovery Center of Spring-field will be among select muse-ums in the country to confront the issue of race and racism in the United States when the RACE: Are We So Different? exhibit opens. A project of Ameri-

Springfield, MO—Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. The City of Springfield, Springfield-Greene County Park Board and the Springfield Regional Arts Council invite you to celebrate and share in what freedom means to you! The event is Saturday, June 16, 2012, Noon - 6 p.m. at Silver Springs Park, 1300 N. National Ave., Springfield, MO If you are interested in con-tributing via spoken word, sing-ing, musical performances or by hosting a booth, please contact Cheryl Clay at (417)873-6386.

Continued on page 10

Disco queen Donna Summer, whose pulsing anthems such as "Last Dance," ''Love to Love You Baby" and "Bad Girl" be-came the soundtrack for a glittery age of sex, drugs, dance and flashy clothes, has died. She was 63. Her family released a statement, saying Summer died Thursday morn-

ing and that they "are at peace celebrating her extraordinary

life and her continued legacy." "Words truly can't express how much we appreciate your prayers and love for our family at this sensitive time," the statement read. She had been living in

Englewood, Fla., with her husband Bruce Sudano.

Summer came to prominence just as disco was burgeoning, and came to define the era with a string of No. 1 hits and her beauty queen looks. Disco became as much defined by her sultry, sexual vocals - her bedroom moans and sighs - as the relentless, pulsing rhythms of the music itself. "Love to Love You Baby," with its erotic moans, was her first hit and one of the most

scandalous songs of the polyes-ter-and-platform-heel era. Unlike some other stars of disco who faded as the music be-came less popular, Summer was able to grow beyond it and later segued to a pop-rock sound. She had one of her biggest hits in the 1980s with "She Works Hard For The Money," which became another anthem, this time for women's rights.

Remembering Donna Summer: The Queen of Disco (1948 - 2012)

Donna Summer

Evangel University’s Women’s Basketball Head Coach, Leon Neal

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