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CHALLENGER

SERVING BUFFALO, ROCHESTER, NIAGARA FALLS AND SURROUNDING AREAS

| F R E E | JAN. 28-FEB. 4, 2015

Dr. Umar Johnson, Descendant of Frederick Douglass, Will Make Debut Lecture Here PG. 3 INSIDE ROCHESTER

From “Schoolhouse to Jailhouse” Program to Focus on issue for Black Male Students PG. 2

Ebony Magazine’s Coolest Family Has Buffalo Connection PG. 9

GENERATIONS

The Art of T.I.E.

PG. 10

FILM

Buffalo Takes Top Honors in National Storytelling Contest PG. 15

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

American Sniper: Honoring a Fallen Hero or Whitewashing a Murderous Occupation? PG. 8 PG. 12

INSIDE ROCHESTER

Challenger Community News • January 28, 2015

Yahya Jihad Abdullah

Program to Focus on "Schoolhouse to Jailhouse" issue for Black Male Students

he growing problem of unnecessary criminalization of Black male public school students by their schools will be the focus of a free community program at 6 p.m., Monday, Feb. 2 in room Monroe A/B at Monroe Community College, 1000 East Henrietta, Brighton. Entitled "What's My Fate? From the Schoolhouse to the Jailhouse," the program is sponsored by the Rochester Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. in partnership with the Diversity Council of MCC and Gamma Iota Boule of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity. Judith Browne- Dianis, a lawyer and co-director of Advancement Project, a Washington,D.C.-based national, multiracial civil rights organization, will be the keynote speaker. A video overview of the "school house to jailhouse" issue and a question and answer period with Ms. Browne-Dianis will also be part of the event. "This program is a continuation of the Rochester Alumnae Chapter's commitment to fostering discussion and inspiring solutions to the subtle yet insidious aspects of racism and civil rights violations in the 21st century," said Gayle Harrison, chairperson of the chapter's Social Action Committee. Last October, the Rochester Alumnae Chapter sponsored a panel discussion and program on the issue of the disproportionate rates of incarceration of young Black men and the obstacles to them becoming productive citizens once they re-enter society. The focus was the book, "The New Jim Crow," by Michelle Alexander. The panel was composed of educational, law enforcement, municipal government, judicial and legal representatives. During the February 2nd program, Browne-Dianis , considered a pioneer in the movement to dismantle the school-toprison pipeline in school districts, will discuss that pipeline and its impact on Black male students. Advancement Project, working closely with local grassroots organizations, already has significantly decreased student suspensions and arrests in Denver, Baltimore and Florida.. Prior to joining the Advancement Project at its founding in 1999 by veteran civil rights lawyers, Browne-Dianis was the managing attorney in the Washington, D.C. office of the NAACP Legal Defense & Educational Fund, Inc.

The Bronze Collective Theatre Fest Opens Feb.17

he Bronze Collective Theatre Fest will be held from Feb. 17 to 21, 2015 at the Multi-use Community Cultural Center (MuCCC), 142 Atlantic Ave. in Rochester. Presented by the Bronze Collective, a new collaborative organization promoting African American theatrical companies and producing artists in Greater Rochester, the festival marks the Collective’s inaugural event and celebrates Black History Month Producing artists during this six-day event include Jahaka Mindstorm, Reuben Josephe Tapp, Reenah Golden, David Shakes, Djed Snead, David Taylor and Kathy McGill. The curtain rises at 7:30 p.m. weeknights. On Saturday there will be two shows at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Throughout this “Week’s Infusion of African American Theatrical Arts,’’ admission is $15 in advance and $20 at the door with a few exceptions. The suggested donation for everyone is $5 for Emergent Playwright Night at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17. And the suggested donation on Saturday, Feb. 21, is $10 for the 2 p.m. Afternoon Soiree & Filmmaker Premiere while there is a special children’s price (ages 14 to 18, $10; ages 13 and younger, free) for the 7 p.m. Kings and Queens. In addition, for those who don’t want to miss a minute of this “Week’s Infusion of African American Theatrical Arts,’’ the Bronze Collective is offering a special package. A six-day fest pass is available for $49.95. For tickets or more details , call Mood Makers Books at (585) 271-7010 or go to www.MUCCC.org .

Nora Cole

Katherine’s Colored Lieutenant Opens at Geva Theatre Geva Theatre Center’s 2015 Fielding Studio Series begins with the world premiere of Katherine’s Colored Lieutenant by Nora Cole and is directed by David Schweizer. The production begins performances on February 5 and runs in the Fielding Nextstage, 75 Woodbury Blvd, Rochester, through February 22. Nora Cole (Fences, Voices of the Spirits in My Soul) digs deep into her family’s history to tell the story of her uncle, a Tuskegee airman, and her aunt, a Louisville schoolteacher. A moving and captivating love story set amidst the racial divisions of the American South during and after WWII. Michael Early plays Robert and is making his Geva Theatre Center debut. Opening Night is February 6 at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $35. For reservations call (585) 232-GEVA (4382), Website: www.gevatheatre.org

*Black Heritage Month Celebration: 150 Ancestors Reception: Thursday, January 29, 5:307 pm, City Hall Atrium; For more info call 311 or go to www.cityofrochester.gov/ bhm *Black Heritage Month Celebration: Black History Conference, Saturday, January 31, 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m., REOC Campus, 161 Chestnut St., Tickets $10 general; For more info call 311 or go to www.cityofrochester. gov/bhm *An Evening of Art & Jazz, Thurs. Feb. 5, 5:30-7 p.m., City Hall Link Gallery, $10.

School Board Governance Committee Meeting Rescheduled

Yahya Jihad Abdullah, a retired Monroe County employee, who worked as a sales and distribution representative for the Minority Reporter Media Group (MRMG), and also served as co-chair of the Juneteenth Committee of the Freedomway Business Association, died on January 20. Abdullah is survived by his devoted wife, Arleata; three sons, Jelani (Yvette) Buckner, Anwar (Barbara) Khalil, Mikal (Crystal) Khalil; one daughter, Danet (Jahmaal) Ross; 16 grand; two great-grandchildren; one brother, James (Laverne) Buckner Jr.; three sisters, Cynthia Waye, Sylvia Bryon and Diane (Trent) Wynn; mother-in-law, Patricia Ghee; one brother-in-law, Charles (Barbara) Ghee; nieces, nephews; other relatives, and friends. Janazah Service was held at the Islamic Center. A community service was held last Saturday, at the Frederick Douglass Resource Center, 36 King St. Interment was in Avon, NY.

The meeting of the Rochester Board of Education’s Board Governance Committee has been rescheduled from tomorrow evening to Thursday, January 29, at 5:30 p.m. in the third-floor conference room of the Central Office Building, located at 131 West Broad Street.

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Application Deadline for Kindergarten: March 2

Challenger Community News • January 28, 2015

AREA BRIEFS ECC Hosts Motivational Speaker Dion Jordan Erie Community College is currently hosting personal development strategist, speaker, talk show host, and best-selling author Dion Jordan for motivational speaking engagements at each of its campuses with each event’s planned start at 11 a.m. The nationally recognized speaker will deliver a talk on Wednesday, January 28 at ECC South in the Faculty Dining Room, Building 54041 Southwestern Blvd. in Orchard Park. On Thursday, January 29 he will appear at ECC North in the Student Lounge, S Building at 6205 Main Street in Williamsville. The kickoff lecture began Jan. 27 at ECC City.The events are free and open to the public. A native of Palm Springs, California, Dion Jordan is regarded as one of the most powerful and engaging professional speakers on today’s speaking circuit. He’s appeared in USA Today and on local and national broadcasts around the nation, He is also the acclaimed author of four books, including best-sellers All It Takes is All You’ve Got and Maximum Potential: 21 Empowering Beliefs of the World Class.

Kirkland to Receive Eye on History Award The 7th Eye On History Award will be presented to Ted Kirkland on Thursday February 5, at the Frank E. Merriweather Library from 4- 6 p.m. The community is invited join in honoring Mr. Kirkland for his many years of work as a former police officer, community leader, and former radio talk show host. He is the author of “Spirit and Soul, Odyssey of a Black Man in America,” a thought-provoking book with much history of Buffalo’s Black community. The Eye On History Award is presented bimonthly to an individual who has consistently contributed to our community in unique ways and has contributed to African American History through the written word, art, or in any other way for the benefit of the community. The awards program is free and open to the public.

From Homicide to Healing Prayer Service The Buffalo-Niagara Chapter of the National Action Network will hold its 2nd Annual “From Homicide to Healing Ecumenical Prayer Service” on Saturday, January 31, from 12 noon until 2 p.m. at True Bethel Baptist Church, 907 E. Ferry St. This event celebrates and supports the families of victims of homicide in an effort to promote unity and healing through constructive dialogue and ongoing encouragement. The event is free and open to the public. Rev. Gregory P. Nelson is President. You may call 716-299-8299 for additional information.

Dr. Martin Luther King Said it 48 Years ago… ”No Justice! No Peace!” “We’ve got to make it known that until our problem is solved, America may have many, many days, but they will be full of trouble. There will be no rest, there will be no tranquility in this country until the nation comes to terms with our problem.” Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., 1967

Dr. Umar Johnson, Frederick Douglass Descendant, Will Make Debut Lecture Here

3 CARS RETURN TO THE 600 BLOCK OF MAIN STREET!

r. Umar Abdullah Johnson Ifantune, a school psychologist, political philosopher and Pan Africanist, will make his debut appearance in Buffalo on Friday, February 6 from 5 to 10 p.m. at the Frank E. Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Ave. at E. Utica. His topic will be “The Psycho-Academic Holocaust Against Black Boys” and “Black Male Female Relationships.” He will be joined by special guest C. Twiggs Billue, author of Suspended for Life: The Road to Unemployment, Crime and Death. Dr. Johnson, a blood relative of Frederick Douglass, the great Black abolitionist and orator, served for five years as the youngest of five AfricanAmerican male school psychologists in the 5th largest public school district in America – The School District of Philadelphia. A highly sought after motivational and informational speaker, he is a gifted orator with a following that ranges in Dr. Umar Abdullah Johnson Ifantune age from 8 to 80 years old. Dr. Johnson is considered an authority on the education of Black children and on mental health in the Black community. He recently launched an ambitious campaign to raise enough money to purchase the former 135 acre-St. Paul’s College in Virginia (a former Historically Black College) and convert it into the Frederick Douglass/Marcus Garvey RBG International Leadership Academy for African Children. The school’s curriculum will focus on preparing students for self-employment and entrepreneurship, not merely acceptance into college. “I don’t have to tell you that there is a war in this country against African American boys,” he notes on his website soliciting funding and sup- Frederick Douglass (left) and Marcus Garvey port for the school. He cited such frightening statistics as , for example, only 1 out of every 4 Black boys will graduate from high school .…only two out of every 4 African American boys at some point in his life will be under the supervision of the American criminal justice system; and that school has become a school-to-prison-pipeline. “I want to stop that… ,” states Dr. Johnson. “I want this school to be a blueprint, a role model to every other independent African school in the world to show them that Afrian children are not the intellectual inferiors to European Americans; to show them that our children want to learn just as much as anyone else….I’m tired of our children being forced to exist in a system that was not designed to educate them in the first place…. ” The dialogue with Dr. Johnson will continue at the Alphonso Greene Jr. Masten Resource Center at 1423 Fillmore Avenue. Dr. Johnson will also have his new book available for purchase.

“Our History Did Not Begin In Chains. It Will Not End Chains.” Celebrate Black History Month!

Mayor Byron Brown, joined by Congressman Brian Higgins, members of the Buffalo Common Council, New York State Legislature, Empire State Development Corporation, Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA), Buffalo Place, Shea’s Performing Arts Center and business community, marked the completion of the $8 million redevelopment of the 600 Block of Main Street last week with a ceremonial vehicular parade along this premier stretch of Main Street. “Reopening downtown Main Street for business and entertainment is a real game-changer for Buffalo,” said Brown. “When cars left Main Street over thirty years ago, so did businesses and jobs,” stated Senator Tim Kennedy. “I’m thrilled to see traffic finally returning, and the economic activity that will come with it.” “Today is a day that some believed would never happen – cars are back downtown on Main Street in the City of Buffalo,” said Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples-Stokes. “This is a very exciting day for Buffalo residents and yet another significant step forward in our city’s remarkable revitalization,” said Buffalo Common Council President Darius Pridgen. Pictured at the ribbon cutting above from left: Assemblywoman Peoples-Stokes, Congressman Higgins, Mayor Brown, Senator Kennedy and Council President Darius Pridgen.

Legislator Barbara Miller-Williams Champions Community College Chargeback Reform On Thursday, January 22, 2015, the Erie County Legislature’s Community Enrichment Committee unanimously passed a resolution submitted by Legislator Barbara Miller-Williams (DBuffalo) conveying its support for the reform of the Community College Chargeback Policy that has put a financial strain on Erie County and it's municipalities. “New York State’s chargeback policy was implemented into State law in the 1950s, and is inadvertently causing an undue burden on Erie County's struggling local governments. A review of the New York State’s antiquated system of Community College Chargeback Rates is warranted in order to formulate a multi-partisan strategy to address this issue with the WNY State Delegation and encourage reform of this chargeback policy” stated Legislator Miller-Williams in her resolution. In 2013 the amount of chargebacks cost taxpayers over $5.4 million in Erie County, with taxpayers in towns such as Tonawanda & Kenmore paying an extra $846,204 in property taxes and taxpayers in Amherst/Williamsville paying an extra $910,670 in property taxes as a result of their residents attending a NYS Community College other than ECC. The current policy puts an undue financial strain on Erie County taxpayers and the Legislature will work with our New York State Senate and Assembly representatives to address this issue.

LOCAL + NATIONAL + WORLD

Challenger Community News • January 28, 2015

Billions Pledged for Haitian Earthquake Relief Fund But No Relief in Sight…. The $10 billion pledged by international donors for Haiti earthquake relief, five years ago, was “enough money to give every Haitian a check for $1,000,” said Jake Johnston, principal author of the Center for Economic and Policy Research report, “Haiti by the Numbers, Five Years Later.” Yet, 300,000 people are living on the outskirts of Port-auPrince in appalling conditions, while “only 9,000 homes have been built by the international response.”

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Health Matters

Challenger Community News • January 28, 2015

Tai Chi Class Returns to Gloria Parks Center University District Community Development Association announces a FREE Beginning Tai Chi Class for Adults ages 60 and older on Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the Gloria J. Parks Community Center, 3242 Main Street. Tai Chi is a very gentle, meditative movement discipline that originated in ancient China. It is very easy to learn in this beginner’s format. Tai Chi movements have been found to help people with their balance, flexibility, concentration, stress relief, and health maintenance. People in all levels of health and fitness can benefit from this discipline, because it helps to bring mind and body together. Tai Chi instruction is provided by seasoned teachers from the Taoist Tai Chi Society of the USA Buffalo Branch.

PRAY FOR

Beginners can join the class at any time in the 12-week period which began January 16.

PEACE

Foster

FAMILY FAIR va l e n t i n e ’ s d ay — s at. , f e b r u a r y 1 4

• Hear presentations from current foster parents • Learn about training to become a foster parent • Meet representatives from the local agencies who place foster children

Individuals at least 21 years old. You can be single, married, divorced, widowed, or living with a partner. The need for foster parents has never been greater – many children deeply need a temporary home. By fostering, you can help us meet this critical community need.

For details and to RSVP:

Canisius College

FosterFair.com

Science Hall Commons 2001 Main St., Buffalo

sat., February 14

12 - 2 p.m.

• Free of charge • Light refreshments • Convenient parking

f in d ou t if

Fostering is for you !

Erie County: A Community That Cares

FPC709 challenger ad.indd 1

1/13/15 9:25:25 AM

Fighting Food Addictions…

*Sugar, refined carbs, salt, trans fats, and MSG act just like heroin or cocaine, giving you pleasure by triggering an innate process in your brain via dopamine and opioid signals. *No matter what disease you’re trying to conquer, you have to address the basics of diet. Many symptoms will disappear without any other intervention. *Intermittent fasting is one of the most effective ways to eliminate sugar cravings and shed unwanted weight, as it speeds up your body’s ability to reset and start burning fat instead of sugar as its primary fuel. *The Dr. Hym detox diet revolves around replacing processed foods with real foods for 10 days. This will help you detox from sugar, reset your body’s chemistry, and eliminate food addictions. EAT TO

LIVE

Hustle for Health Seniors University District Community Development Association announces a FREE cardio exercise class, Hustle for Health Seniors. The class meets Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to noon now thru March 4 at the Gloria J. Parks Community Center, 3242 Main Street. The class is being brought back after growing into a popular workout class last Fall. Hustle for Health Seniors is a FREE 8-week program using the Hustle For Health wellness program, developed by Jazzy T. Williams, with modified exercises and discussion topics that address the specific needs of adults aged 55+ . Active older adults often seek camaraderie, excitement, and fitness as a regular part of their weekly schedule. Hustle for Health will bring together older adults for an engaging, fun, and healthy work-out each week. Hustle For Health Seniors offers low-impact cardio exercises as well as classes on Nutrition, Finance, Meditation and activities that maintain mobility, strength and mental sharpness.

FAITH BASED

St. John AME News Rev. Dion S Greer Sr., Pastor.

Annual Sweetheart Tea The St. John AME Church Althea Davis Missionary Society will host its Annual Sweetheart Tea on Sunday Feb 15 from 4pm to 7p.m. at the Family Resource Center, 3001 9th St Niagara Falls. Free will offering.For info call Bertha Webb 285-6432. Queen’s Contest Pancake Breakfast Social St. John AME Church will host a Queen’s Contest Pancake Breakfast Social on Saturday Feb. 28 from 8– 10:30a.m. at St. John AME Church 917 Garden Ave, Niagara Falls. Donation: Adults $10 / Youth under 12 years old $15. For info 201-8961 .

Challenger Community News • January 28, 2015

Auditions Set for Musical “Church Girl” A Touch of Love Productions is now casting for the musical stage play, “Church Girl.” Auditions will take place on Monday, February 23 at the Upper Room COGIC, 131 Florida St., at 7:30 p.m. All singers and actors/actresses ages 15 and up are invited to audition. For character information email atouchoflove.productions@gmail.com or call (716) 514-3448.

GOD IS GOOD!

Tithes and Blessings in the Black Church is Topic of Talk “Tithes and Blessings in Buffalo’s African-American Churches” is the topic of a talk by UB Assistant Professor of Anthropology Frederick Klaits on Friday, Feb. 6 at 4 p.m. at Hallwalls Contemporary Arts Center, 341 Delaware Avenue.

DID YOU KNOW… More than half (53%) of Black Americans attend church services at least once per week. However, when the numbers are broken down by gender, 84% of Black women feel religion is very important to them, and about 60% attend services at lest once per week.

FAITH & FAMILY

Challenger Community News • January 28, 2015

GOSPEL PREACHING

The Congregation Comes to Hear the Word of God, Not Your Word!

’ve been taught that there are theatrics to preaching and we do see a great deal of this in pulpits in our own communities, on television and in churches everywhere. But not everything and everyone that you see in the pulpit is a show. Most things are sincere. I can tell you to P.U.S.H. – Pray Until Something Happens. I can tell you to J.U.M.P. – Jesus Understands My Problems, and I can even walk back and forth across the pulpit describing a walk by the green pastures, beside the still waters, through the valley of the shadow of death or even down the Via De La Rosa Road to that place called Golgotha, to Calvary, but will that help you? Yes it will Minister Gregory J. so long as you BELIEVE. Believe in the little baby in the manger in Bethlehem. Believe in the 12 year old that was preaching and teaching in the BRICE synagogues. Believe in the man who foretold His death and resurrection. Believe in Jesus that did exactly what He said He would do so that we may live. Scripture says that God is pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. The sincerity of the foolishness that brings the lost to Christ is pleasing to God. Scripture goes on to say that for the foolishness of God is wiser than man’s wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man’s strength. God choose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise (1 Corinthians 1). So as much as I cannot fix or control the way folk think and talk about me, or crucify me, my sincerity for God and for His Word may seem foolish or trivial BUT SO LONG AS IT PLEASES GOD. I feel as Paul did, it has always been my ambition to preach the Gospel, I am not ashamed of this Gospel that I preach so that those who were not told about Him will see, and

GOSPEL

continued

PREACHING

freshness.

Maintaining freshness in your preaching is a continual challenge with our ever changing society, but maintaining freshness should NEVER, NEVER, NEVER take away from your Gospel preaching, helping however, to make it applicable and relevant. We must deal with passages of Scripture that makes the gospel plain in its’ understanding but that also serves to instruct. Gospel preaching is hard work and nothing can be taken for granted. There is NO room for one’s own personal opinion and/or interpretation. The congregation has come to hear the Word of God and NOT YOUR word!!! We have to utilize the Bible to explain the Bible (or see until we see) and take the time needed in order to explain words such as repentance, faith, glory and justification. It is imperative that we make every effort to understand those we are preaching to, rather than expecting them to understand us. (Minister Brice is Associate Minister at Zion Missionary Baptist Church at 179 E. Ferry Street in Buffalo, where Rev. Chorrethers M. Jenkins II is Pastor.)

those who have not heard will understand. That is what God has intended this Gospel to do, to bring the lost to Christ. All Jesus wants to do is to love us. That’s why He came down in human form, to walk amongst us and to die for us, because He loved us. The blood that was shed on Calvary’s cross is sufficient to save us from our sin debt, all we have to do today is believe and accept it. The songwriter says “Jesus went to Calvary to save a wretch like you and me.” That’s love. It cannot get any simpler than that. Although preaching is the spoken communication of divine truth with a view to persuasion, it still takes effort on our part to receive this spoken communication. If this definition of preaching is taken seriously and in the context and weight that it’s given, then the Bible will be biblically preached, the Gospel will be preached ALL the time and every sermon will be evangelistic ( which spurs the concept that we gather for edification and scatter to evangelize). This is accomplished by staying faithfully true to the Bible while maintainingT:10.25”

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ENTERTAINMENT

Challenger Community News • January 28, 2015

FILM:

American Sniper: Honoring a Fallen Hero or Whitewashing a Murderous Occupation?

he new film American Sniper has ignited controversy for its depiction of the actions of Iraq War veteran Chris Kyle. While the movie has been praised by many for its portrayal of Kyle as a war hero grappling with PTSD, groups like the ArabAmerican Anti-Discrimination Committee have warned they've collected hundreds of violent messages targeting Arabs and Muslims from moviegoers of the hateful film. Max Blumenthal, an awardwinning journalist and bestselling author says the film American Sniper promotes lies, falsehoods about Navy SEAL Chris Kyle along with

the US invasion and occupation of Iraq. “F rom start to finish, the film was filled with lies and distortions …(made a) hero out of a pathological liar and a mass killer,” Blumenthal

said in an interview with Real News Network host Jaisal Noor. “This film has become a vehicle for resuscitating the morale of middle America and red America after the complete and utter failure of the war in Iraq. It's a lost war predicated on a humongous lie. And there are many Americans out there who want to believe that they were actually, the troops were actually fighting for some kind of freedom, for Americans' freedom, and that the war was worth it, that they didn't die in vain, that they didn't get their legs and arms blown off just to advance the geopolitical ambitions of Dick Cheney the draft dodger and a bunch of softhanded neocons. And so that's false. “When I pointed out on Twitter that this film was basically a vehicle to help America overcome Iraq war syndrome, that it portrayed an unrepentant, sadistic killer as an anguished figure who was deeply reflective as he mowed down faceless Iraqis and I attempted to de-exceptionalize the portrayal of American troops in this film, I was daily reached with death threats and hate tweets from the bowels of white America.” Iraqui War Veteran Chris Kyle, upon who’s story the novie is based, said in his book, “I only wished I'd killed more.” He called Iraqis savages. He said, “I loved what I did. It was fun. I had the time of my life. “ “The real Chris Kyle, who appears in American Sniper, his book, in his own words, is a pathological mass killer,” said Blumenthal. “And let me just make one more point, because I've been Continued Page 9

ON STAGE *Thursday Night “Roc Da Mic - Feed the People, Thursday, Jan. 29 from 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. at The Foundry, 298 Northland St., hosted by Ishmael & Company *Valentines Day Show, An Evening With Will Holton's Love Cadenza Sat. Feb. 14 Tralf Music Hall With Performances by Jetaun Louie, Carl Smith, Tifani & Carrington Gaines. 8pm 21+ Admitted General Admission Event $20 Advance / $25 Day Of Show.

*An Evening With Friday Night Laughs featuring Faizon Love With Capone Hosted By Rob Stapleton, Friday, Feb. 6, TWO SHOWS! 7:30pm & 9:30pm 21+ Admitted.General Admission. Ticketmaster.com / Walmart / Doris Records / The Oakkroom / Tralf Box Office 716-852-2860.

*Charlie Wilson with Kem and Joe, First Niagara Center, 1 Seymour H. Knox III Plaza downtown Buffalo, Friday, Feb. 13, 7 p.m. *Comedian Katt Williams “Born Again…Again” Tour, Blue Cross Arena, Rochester, March 14; tickets @ Arena box office, Ticketmaster. com, all Ticketmaster outlets; charge by phone 1-800-7453000.

SEE YOU AT THE EVENTS!

M O N D AY S P E C I A L S B y A ppointment O nly !

ENTERTAINMENT

Challenger Community News • January 28, 2015

Ebony Magazine’s “Coolest Family” Has Buffalo Connection!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! George Johnson Jr. (“JJ”) celebrated his birthday in style last Saturday with a dance party at the Schiller Park Center on Genesee Street. Everybody had a great time – especially the ever popular community worker and Buffalo United Front founder and head “J,” who danced the night away! He is pictured here with his lovely “significant other” Belinda. We wish you many happy more George!

Dancin’ at the Parks!

Dancn’ at the Parks, a Valentine’s Dinner Dance for adults 55+ with featuring The Larry Salter Soul Orchestra and vocalist, Joyce Carolyn will be held on Friday, February 13, 4:30 – 8:30 p.m.at the Gloria J. Parks Community Center,3242 Main Street Overflow Parking behind St. Joseph’s University Church. Tickets: $10.00 in advance/ $15 at the door. For tickets call Dell Wilson at 716-832-1010; ext. 206

Shaddie Swag Releases New Mixed Tape Buffalo God Hop artist/ producer/songwriter Rashad Howard Aka Shaddie Swag has a new mixtape out called “The Fall N Rise of Shad Howard.” “I want to thank all who have supported and really encouraged me in this time of my life,” said Shaddie. “So plZ hit me If you want !” Physical inquiries can be sent to: 77 Easton Ave., Buffalo, NY, 14215, or shadswag@ gmail.com

AMERICAN SNIPER continued

accused of denigrating our troops. I know plenty of veterans. I have veterans in my own family. And I don't know many veterans who boast about what they did and enjoyed killing people. Most of them regretted it and are deeply, deeply traumatized by what happened. We just need to look at the Winter Soldier hearings that were completely overlooked by mainstream U.S. media after Afghanistan and Iraq…. I think there's another story to be told about our veterans, and it's been completely ignored in this saga.”

SEE YOU AT THE EVENTS!

eet no. 53 on Ebony’s “Coolest Black Families in America” list, The Clemons family: The Clemons story is touched by kismet’s kiss—when circumstance dances with fortune, faith prevails, then destiny ensues. February 14, 1993. Kelly Beavers—a graduate of William Smith College in Geneva, New York—was attending the Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta. Fresh off of a breakup, her friends coerced her to attend a party hosted by Omega Psi Phi fraternity to celebrate Valentine’s Day. “I didn’t want to go. I didn’t want to be a part of the lonely hearts club.” And yet, some of the coolest relationships start at parties where one was reluctant to go. Dr. Kelly Beavers-Clemons (former resident of Buffalo and Kelly, from Buffalo, New York, had noticed the daughter of Fern Beavers) and her lovely family were the Oxon Hill, Maryland native before. Aware selected as one of Americas “Coolest Families” and featured that he belonged to the fraternity, she gave in the January issue on Ebony . Com herself incentive, thinking “maybe that guy will be there.” The future doctor and her girls had a good time, so she wasn’t terribly disappointed her prospect wasn’t there. But it was Valentine’s Day, and Cupid would not be defeated. Kelly and her friends decided to make their exit. “When we were leaving the party, he was coming in. I turned around and went back to the party!” Over much inner debate, Kelly seized the moment: she asked him to dance. Stephen Clemons was an electrical engineering major at Georgia Tech when struck by the enchanted arrow. “When I first met Kelly, the heavens opened up,” he says, and the signs kept coming. A Libra and an Aqaurius, they also had the auspice of astrology breezing around them. It is written that one of the best first dates for this connection is an art house or documentary film. And it was their first date that ignited his intrigue. “I took her to see Malcolm X. Kelly thought the movie was great,” he says. “I thought it was entertaining. I wanted the movie to deal with more of the subject matter of the speeches.” Critically, they talked about it. Stimulated by her beauty and her mind, he enjoyed the depth of their discourse. (Aquarius business.) “I liked our dialogue. She had it goin’ on.” As for Kelly, “When we kissed, I was sure.” (A Libra’s prerequisite.) Cupid served a love match. The marriage proposal took place at her favorite restaurant in Atlanta, Kelly recalls. “I ordered the lobster tacos which I love, and when we got dessert, there was a message on my plate. He got down on one knee and recited a poem he’d written for me in middle of the restaurant, in front of everyone!”

Challenger Community News • January 28, 2015

Generations

Art of the T.I.E.

Omega Gents & Advisors learn how to tie a bow tie

anuary is known as National Mentoring Month, but for many youth organizations, mentoring is a yearlong commitment. During the 2014 holiday season, The Omega Gents of The Omega Mentoring Program, Inc. (OMP) hosted a workshop entitled “Art of the T.I.E.” in conjunction with United Men’s Fashion. The workshop “T.I.E.” which stands for Training, Instruction and Execution, taught the gentlemen of the Omega Mentoring Program and their advisors the timeless art of how to tie the intimidating bowtie. The workshop held at the Johnnie B. Wiley Stadium on Jefferson Avenue is a part of their “Building Men” workshop series that harnesses the necessary tools to help advance and train the young scholars on how to be men. Lamark Shaw and Brian Wardlaw of United Men’s Fashion were gracious enough to meet with the gentleman after a long day of work and teach them the intricate details. Mr. Cedric Holloway, Executive Director of OMP, stated, “In an age where it’s fashionable for young men to wear sagging pants and sloppy attire, it’s important for young men to know how

Thirty-Eighth Annual Carter G. Woodson Essay Contest The Carter G. Woodson Essay Contrest is open to all young people in grades 4 – 12.

presentation makes a difference. Maybe our young men are missing out on the basics that one learns from a father, uncle or Pastor; how to tie a tie. We hope that this presentation will offer them a sense of pride in their appearance. We are so thankful, that Mr.

Shaw, Mr. Wardlaw and United Men’s Fashion have donated their time to give such a presentation.” For more information on the Omega Mentoring Program and its initiatives, please contact 716.444.6078 or omegamentoring@yahoo.com

Njozi Youth Poetry Slam

Njozi Promotions will host a Buffalo Niagara International Youth Poetry Slam for ages 13-19 on Saturday, February 7 at 4:30 p.m. at the Johnson Theatre at the Elmwood Franklin School, 104 New Amsterdam Ave. (near Nicholas School off Amherst St.) Win $500 in cash and prizes! To register to enter the competition go to www.njoziensemble.com or call (716)

553-9491. General admission $10 ($15 @ door); students $7 ($$10 @ door). Tickets available at Doris Records and Record Theatre or online at www.njoziensemble.com

Jack and Jill of America, “Rites of Passage Naming Ceremony” Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated-Buffalo Chapter will host its “Rites of Passage Naming Ceremony” as part of its XIV Biennial Beautillion Extraordinaire program on Saturday, February 28, 2015 at 4 PM at S.E.N.S.E.S Foundation 360 Genesee Street, Buffalo, New York. Eleven young men from the community will announce and present their chosen African names and meanings as part of their “Rites of Passage”. This event is free and open to the public. Guests are cordially invited to witness this event and wear African Attire. L. Nathan Hare, Executive Director of the Community Action Organization of Erie County, is the Presiding Elder of the Naming Ceremony. The Buffalo Chapter President is Deirdre Roper. The Beautillion Co-Chairs are Kimisha Brown-Houston and Kenisha Smith. For more information call 228-1739.

Essays must be written (printed or typed) In 500 Words Or Less (200 Words Minimum) On The Topic: A Tribute To African American Theater In Western New York. Your essay may be written about a Theater Company, play, playwright, actor, actress, instructor or director that contribute to the legacy of African American Theater in Western New York. Interviews are encouraged as well as history of theater companies or persons. Some suggestions (you are not limited to these): Ujima Theater, Paul Roberson Theater at African American Cultural Center, Alemade Theater, Plays at other local theaters, persons such as – Lorna Hill, Mary Craig, Willie Judson, Paulette Harris, Hugh Davis, Shantina Moore, Roosevelt Tidwell, Charles Everett, June Duell, Sandra Gilliam and many more. Essays must be received by MONDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2015. Send to – Carter G. Woodson Essay Contest, P.O. Box 63, Buffalo, New York 14207 or leave at the Frank E. Merriweather, Jr. Branch Library, 1324 Jefferson Avenue @ E. Utica St. Your name, address, telephone number, school and grade must be written on your essay. Essays will be judged on content, quality and depth of research, clarity and neatness. Cash prizes will be awarded in three categories: Grades 4-6; Grades 7-9; Grades 10-12. First prize - $50 Second prize - $35 Third prize - $25 Additional prizes may also be given to winners of the essay contest. ONLY Winners will be notified of the awards program. Winning essays will be read by the participants at the African American History Program at

the Frank E. Merriweather, Jr. Library, 1324 Jefferson Avenue on Saturday, February 21, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. Essays will also be printed in Historically Speaking, April 2015.

Legislator Grant, students and teachers who recently viewed “Selma.”

The Movement to Discredit the Movie Selma by Hollywood and the Media

hen the Golden Globe nominations came out, I was disappointed. When the Academy Awards nominations came out, I was angry and finally, when the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) nominations were announced I became outraged! Of all the acting and directing categories that Selma could, and should have been nominated for, it wasn’t! No nominations for Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor, Best Supporting Actress, Best Director or Best Picture (with the exception of the Oscar nomination for Best Picture) or in any of the remaining twelve or thirteen Betty Jean categories left. GRANT This movie was largely financed by Oprah Winfrey and other African Americans and it allowed a gifted African American female director to come to the forefront and show the movie industry what she is capable of. I really believe this was the fear of those who don’t want to see movies About Us financed By Us (AUBU)! I am sure many of you can remember the patriotic movie, Red Tails, about Black aviators during World War 2 being largely financed by, I think, Robert Deniro. We all know how much Hollywood and other movie industry proponents of racism and exclusion wanted that movie to be a failure. It was only through sheer word of mouth, from coast to coast and social media such as Facebook and Twitter, that allowed that movie a decent return on the investor’s investment. We need to do the same thing for Selma. We know that there are bootleg copies of the movie floating around out there already. But we, who can afford it, need to see the movie in a theater so that the true viewing audience can be documented and money spent seeing the movie, counted. Who can actually believe that the gentleman that played Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was not worthy of consideration of a Best Actor nomination? Even with my eyes wide open, I had a hard time believing that he was not the Civil Rights activist in the flesh! I love Halle Berry and Denzel Washington and the work they do but it is my sincere belief that a promiscuous, sex-crazed mom (Monster Ball) and a drug-crazed, dirty cop (Training Day) were not their best work. Movie producer, director and actor, Spike Lee had it absolutely correct in last week’s Challenger. This is the leanest year for African Americans to be recognized for their acting skills in almost 20 years! With the phenomenal success of TV shows such as Scandal with Kerry Washington, Empire with Taraji P. Henson and How to Get Away with Murder with Viola Davis; it might be safe to bet that certain big shots in Hollywood might be just a little bit jealous!

Selma is a great movie, however it is up to us to ensure that it does not become the low grossing movie that some in the movie industry have projected it to be. I have seen it two times already and in addition to going to see it again, I am going to promote it on my FB page, as well. Also, last week, Councilmembers Rasheed Wyatt, Demone Smith and Darius Pridgen and this writer financed a day trip for over 140 students from Buffalo Public schools to attend a private screening of the movie at the Regal Theater on Elmwood Ave. It is also my hope that other elected officials and community leaders will finance such a trip for the many other students who will only be enriched and enlightened by seeing this great portrayal of an actual event that changed the political process for African Americans in this country. This movie and its message will fail only if We allow it to fail.

OPINIONS

Challenger Community News • January 28, 2015

Buffalo Schools in the Crossroads

Now, the Governor Takes Aim at our Schools

am almost speechless regarding the events of this past week. Governor Andrew Cuomo issued his State of the State Address, which included his plans for “educational reform”. The Governor, in a graphic and stunning illustration of the old adage, “politics make strange bedfellows”, has joined Carl Paladino and his cohorts, who advocate the “disassembling” of the Buffalo Public Schools; label our children as failures; demonize our teachers; and champion the myth of the redemptive value of charter schools. I have been writing this column for about six months. When I started it, I entitled it “Buffalo Schools at the Crossroads” because I believed that the District had reached a critical juncture. We could Barbara Seals go in one direction: movement to develop a reasoned strategic plan, conceivably in- Nevergold cluding pushback on unfair mandates from the State Education Department, to correct our problems. Or, we could take the path advocated by the new Board majority to dismantle our public education system. Frankly, our best opportunity to take the road leading to incremental but study growth in student achievement was diminished when Dr. Pamela Brown was forced to resign as Superintendent. Unfortunately it now appears that we are being pushed down the latter path, thanks to powerful and moneyed forces that support the “disassemblers”. Robert Bennett, Board of Regents Chancellor Emeritus, Chancellor Merryl Tisch, local banker Robert Wilmers, and as noted the Governor are all weighing in on the urgency of “fixing” Buffalo’s failing schools. Today, we are at the crossroads as well as in the crosshairs, referencing the increased targeting of our District by these powerful and influential detractors. Now, I’m not a “whiner”, nor an “apologist”, nor “unrealistic” when it comes to the Buffalo Schools and the serious problems and challenges that have beset this district for decades. Unlike that nameless Board member, who several years ago uttered the words, the “State Education Department is picking on Buffalo”, I have not made that claim, at least not publicly until now. But I believe that the District has been the subject of unfair and overly focused attention as the crucible in which all negative attributes of “failing” schools are conjured up for display. The District received no credit for positive accomplishment, such as a significant increase in graduation rates over the last two years and incremental growth in some of our schools that resulted in their movement to the list of “schools in good standing”. Also, when have you last seen any, in depth reporting of the arbitrary changes by the State in cut scores (those scores that determine pass/fail on the standardized tests) or a presentation on the merits of those standardized tests, which are used to test all children regardless of language proficiency or educational ability? Or what about the mandate to send students from East and Lafayette to BOCES, which resulted in few positive gains for the students but a gain of nearly $500,000 for BOCES? As for the Governor, like Chancellor Tisch, he too is pointing fingers at Buffalo. He agrees with Dr. Tisch in wanting to make it possible for the State to take over “failing” Districts, like Buffalo’s. He proposes increasing the number of charter schools, apparently believing that they have the answers to resolving our educational problems. He also is in favor of continuing to use “high stakes” standardized tests. They’re called “high stakes” because they not only determine student proficiency upon which school success or failure is based, but he plans to assign a greater significance to the use of these tests to evaluate teachers and

“PEACEFUL DIALOGUE” Dear Editor: Communities in Buffalo, New York City, Ferguson and other cit ies around the nation are rallying for justice and calling for change because of repeated incidents of inappropriate police conduct and a lack of communication. In contrast to rioting and violent protests in other cities and the murder of two police officers in New York City, the powerful Coalition of Concerned Clergy of Western New York intervened as peacemakers and initiated peaceful dialogue with the Buffalo Police Department and the City of Buffalo, which prevented the violence that occurred in other cities from happening here. Darius G. Pridgen, Pastor of True Bethel Baptist Church and President of the Buffalo Common Council, so eloquently stated from the pulpit and Common Council Chambers that the community understands that the majority of police are good officers but we are seeking to engage in a dialogue for change because there are a few officers who repeatedly fail to correctly apply and follow proper police procedures and those officers need to be removed from the police force. The purpose of the Police Oversight Committee (which was reinstated by Council President Pridgen) is not to police the police, rather to build trust between the police and our community and we need to be taught proper protocol so that we know our rights and what to do when stopped by the police. At a time when there is so much violence in cities across the country, our community leaders have stepped up and kept protests peaceful in Buffalo. We owe our thanks to Mayor Byron Brown, Pastor William Gillison, who hosted several community forums at Mt. Olive Baptist Church, Bishop Candidate - Pastor Darius G. Pridgen, Pastor George Nelson of Lincoln Memorial United Methodist Church, Attorney John Elmore, the Coalition of Concerned Clergy of WNY including Rev. Dr. James A. Lewis III, who opened a recent Common Council meeting with prayer, with over 50 police officers in attendance, and the many other community leaders and organizations that got involved. Clergy from Buffalo and Niagara Falls, the Mayor, politicians, business and civic leaders immediately responded and worked together. Not only did they show us what good leadership can achieve, they also showed us the proper way to seek justice, respond to injustice, and “keep the peace” in our community and the City of Buffalo. Let us be proud that Buffalo is, as Council President, Darius G. Pridgen stated, a “model city” for change. LaVinia G. Hairston

Parents Support and Thank Governor Cuomo For Putting Children and Families First Dear Editor: Governor Cuomo is providing unprecedented LEADERSHIP with his proposed Education Agenda. We have never seen the underlying problems facing Education confronted so directly. Buffalo Parents are calling on the NY State Legislature to support this agenda. The Governors Proposal actually puts children and families ahead of bureaucracy and special interest. As President of the Buffalo District Parent Coordinating Council (DPCC) the Governor has our Support and we look forward to opportunities to work with him to see it fully implemented.

Continued Page 13

“We wish to plead our own cause. Too long have others spoken for us.” - John Russwurm, Freedom’s Journal. 1827 America’s 1st Black Newspaper

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Hotep (Unshakable Inner Peace) Brother Sam Radford

A MESSAGE TO THE YOUTH: BEWARE OF “THE TRAP! ”

By Pamela Adside

o man, woman or child has a right to act as judge, jury or prosecutor; holding court in the streets and taking another human being’s life. “The trap” has mis-informed us with thinking money is power. No my brothers and sisters knowledge is power! The “trap” has our people mislead and misguided. As a result my brothers are fighting over a so-called “turf”; a piece of property that neither one of them, or neither side owns. The “trap” has mis-informed us with the “get rich quick schemes” (selling drugs and other illegal activites). As a result, many will gun down another brother if he feels he is ‘slinging’ more drugs and making more money than the next man. Drugs have been brought into our inner cities to be distributed among our mothers, fathers sisters and brothers; causing havoc in the lives of our families and loved ones. Many of us will end up in the penitentiary; leaving the streets to raise our children who will more than likely get caught up in the vicious cycle of “the trap.” Those that don’t, die a fast, violent death or will die due to the use of drugs, alcohol or the lifestyle (“the trap.”) It was once said, if society wants to keep information from Black folks, it will be placed in a book because it’s less likely that we will pick it up and read it. But we have proven many people wrong. We have a geat deal of educated African Americans all around the world today. We made history when we elected this country’s first African American president, Barack Obama. It was a great leap, but we have a lot more to do. Is letting go of false pride and ego easy? No. Is letting go of that false image we’ve built and nurtured for so many years easy? No. Is coming out of our comfort zone easy? No. Is working a nine to five job going to instantly afford you the money, material gains and luxurious lifestyle you are accustomed to or desire to have from the sale of drugs and other illegal activities? No. Just knowing that you no longer have to look over your shoulder for the police or dodge bullets from another brother who is also caught up in “the trap” gives you a sense of newfound peace and freedom within itself. Don’t ever think that it’s too early or too late to step out of “the trap.” There is absolutely nothing too bad that you have done to stop God from loving you! Nothing! Instead of going down that same familiar street, with the large hole and continuously falling in, starting today let’s go down a different street with our head held high. Starting today let’s get off those street corners selling that poison to our brothers, sisters, mothers and fathers. STARTING TODAY LET’S PUT AWAY THE GUNS – NO MORE KILLING OUR BROTHERS, SISTERS MOTHERS AND FATHERS! “The Trap” has been set for us. Let’s stop the energy that is haunting us and hunting us in its own tracks by becoming part of the solution and not the problem. STARTING TODAY LET’S LOVE EACH OTHER INSTEAD OF KILLING EACH OTHER. IF LOVE IS TOO HARSH OF A WORD FOR YOU TO SWALLOW, THEN LET’S AT LEAST TRY TO RESPECT EACH OTHER! Beware my brothers. Beware my sisters. Beware everyone. BEWARE OF “THE TRAP!”

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Challenger Community News • January 28, 2015

National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS of Buffalo To Observe National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day The National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS (NBLCA) of Buffalo will join local and national organizations around the country in recognizing National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day; a day set aside to acknowledge the heavy toll and disproportionate impact the HIV/AIDS epidemic continues to have on the African American community. On Friday, February 6, NBLCA of Buffalo, along with other New York State affiliates, will host a Town Hall meeting beginning with a panel discussion, Live Streamed from The Schomburg Research Center, in Harlem, New York. “The State of HIV in Black America: The Intersection of Health, Education & Community in the Fight to End AIDS” will be held at the Erie County Medical Center, Smith Auditorium, 3rd Floor, 462 Grider Street, The scheduled event will begin with registration and a continental breakfast at 8:15 a.m. The panel discussion will begin promptly at 9 a.m. and will call attention to effects, stigma, criminalization, and sources for prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS. Featured will be representatives from state, federal, and national HIV/AIDS research, including: Johanne E. Morne of the AIDS Institute; Douglas M. Brooks, MSW, Director of the Office of National AIDS Policy; and representatives from AIDS United. National Black HIV/AIDS Awarness Day is officially observed on February 7. The NBLCA and its’ affiliates stress the importance of getting educated, tested, involved, and treated. African Americans represent 9.9% of Western New York’s population (2010 US Census), but comprise 38% of those living with HIV or AIDS in the region. The City of Buffalo has a case rate of 359 per 100,000 population, which is substantially higher than the statewide AIDS case rate exclusive of NYC (251.5 per 100K). New York State data for 2010 show that Blacks/AfricanAmericans are nine times more likely to be newly diagnosed with HIV than Whites, with 60.8 new diagnoses per 100,000 people as compared with 6.8 per 100,000 for Whites. Hispanics are also more likely to be diagnosed with HIV than Whites, with 33.0 newly diagnosed cases per 100,000 people. Great strides have been transforming HIV into a nearly treatablcondition;however, there Continued Page 13

12 NOTICE TO BIDDERS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that sealed proposals for the Erie County Sewer District No. 4, Aurora North Pump Station Elimination Sanitary Sewer Project, Contract No. 40R will be received by the Commissioner of the Erie County Department of Environment and Planning on February 27, 2015 until 11:00 a.m., local time, at 95 Franklin Street, Room 1034, Buffalo, New York, 14202, at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud in Room 1004. The contract is located in the Towns of Lancaster and Cheektowaga, Erie County, New York. The work includes installation of approximately 12,920 linear feet of 15”, 21” and 27” diameter PVC gravity sanitary sewer pipe, manholes, connections, abandonment of 2 pumping stations, and all other appurtenant work. Bidders are advised that a pre-bid meeting for the construction of this project is scheduled for February 13, 2015, at 10:00 A.M., at the Erie County Department of Environment and Planning Northern Regional Office, 3789 Walden Avenue, Lancaster, New York 14086. Copies of the Contract documents, plans and specifications may be examined and purchased at the Office of Erie County Department of Environment and Planning, 10th Floor, 95 Franklin St., Buffalo, New York 14202. Related information and a listing of prospective bidders can be found in Business Center, “Construction Bids and Engineering Proposals”: on the Erie County Web Page @ WWW.ERIE.GOV The Owner is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of information, including plans, specifications, and/or any addenda, which the Bidder may have received from sources other than the locations for examining and purchasing listed above. The deposit for each set of contract documents shall be $100.00 in the form of two checks or money orders, each in the amount of one-half the deposit, and made payable to the Erie County Comptroller. Any bidder requesting a set of plans and specifications mailed to their office must arrange for a pre-paid delivery service or mail carrier. The envelope containing the bid must be sealed, addressed to the Erie County Commissioner of Environment and Planning and must be clearly and correctly designated as “Erie County Sewer District No. 4, Aurora Pump Station Elimination Sanitary Sewer Project, Contract No. 40R. Any bid not delivered in person shall be mailed to the Erie County Commissioner of Environment and Planning, 95 Franklin Street, Room 1034, Buffalo, New York 14202, and receieved prior to the time set for the bid opening. Any bidder returning such plans and specifications in good condition within thirty (30) days following the award of the contract or the rejection of bids will be refunded the full amount of the deposit. Non-bidders will be refunded one-half the deposit. Any bidder requesting more than one (1) set of plans and specifications may purchase the excess, but it is understood that they are not returnable. No refund will be made for documents returned after the thirty-day period. Erie County Sewer District No. 4 is an exempt organization under the Tax Law, and is exempt from payment of Sales and Compensating Use Taxes which are to be incorporated into the project and which are to be separately sold by the Contractors to the Owner prior to incorporation into the project, pursuant to the provisions of the contract. These taxes are not to be included in the bid. Sales tax will be due on all materials purchased by a Contractor which are either “consumable” or rental property used by the Contractor in connection with the construction or repair. Each proposal must be accompanied by a certified check payable to the Erie County Comptroller or by a bid bond having a surety thereon from a surety company acceptable to the County Attorney, in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the total base bid, as surety for execution of the contract. The successful bidder will be required to furnish Payment and Performance Bond, each in an amount equal to 100 percent of the contract award. The attention of the bidder is called particularly to the provisions of Erie County Local Law No. 2-2006, known as the “Erie County Workforce Development and Diversification New York State Certified Worker Training Program”, to have in place and provide written proof at the time of bid, a New York State Certified Worker Training Program, either intentional to the Contractor or Subcontractor and/or through an organization servicing several Contractors or Subcontractors, appropriate for the type and scope of work to be performed. In the alternative, Rules and Regulations pertaining to Local Law No. 2-2006 allows the Bidder to provide a statement as to the inapplicability, lack of career opportunities, and/or that the magnitude of the contract would make apprentices impractical. Bidders shall also provide affirmation of its commitment toward acceptable achievement or progress toward the County of Erie workforce development and diversification goal of thirty percent minority and female participation combined in project personnel including trades people, trainees, journeymen, apprentices and supervisor staff. The attention of the bidder is called particularly to requirements with respect to conditions of employment to be observed, minimum wages rates to be paid under the contract, Affirmative Action requirements for Equal Employment Opportunity, along with the Minority Business Enterprise Utilization Commitment. Bidders are also advised that EPA forms 6100.3 and 6100.4 are to be submitted with the bid. The attention of the bidder is called to the provisions of Article 5A of the General Municipal Law which requires the bidder to execute a certificate of non-collusion and to conform with the other provisions of Article 5A outlined in the specifications. A form for such certificate accompanies the bid form. Unless it is property executed, the bid will not be accepted. The bidder acknowledges to and for the benefit of the Erie County Sewer District No. 4 (“Purchaser”) and the State of New York (the “state”) that it understands the goods and services under this project are being funded with monies made available by the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and/or Drinking Water State Revolving Fund that have statutory requirements commonly known as “American Iron and Steel;” that requires all of the iron and steel products used in the project to be produced in the United States (“American Iron and Steel Requirement”) including iron and steel products provided by the Contractor pursuant to this Agreement. All of the iron and steel products used in the project will be and/or have been produced in the United States in a manner that complies with the American Iron and Steel Requirement, unless a waiver of that requirement is approved. The right to reject any and all bids, to waive any informalities in, or to make any award to other than the low bidder, should it be deemed to be in the best interest of Erie County Sewer District No. 4 and in accordance with Law, are herewith reserved. No bidder may withdraw his bid within 45 days after the date set for the opening thereof, but may withdraw same anytime prior to the scheduled time for opening bids. BY ORDER OF: Joseph L. Fiegl, P.E., Deputy Commissioner Department of Environment and Planning

Classified

Challenger Community News • January 28, 2015

Downtown Market and Job Fair

AIDS AWARENESS DAY continued

The University at Buffalo Educational Opportunity Center and the Buffalo Employment & Training Center are hosting a Downtown Market Career Training and Job Fair on Wednesday, February 4th from 10:00am-1:00pm at the EOC Conference Center, 555 Ellicott Street, downtown Buffalo. This event will present the community an opportunity to meet with and network with hiring managers from downtown area companies. Attendees are invited to bring their resumes and be prepared to submit them to employers that will be sharing information about opportunities that are available with their businesses. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, call 645-1925.

is still much work to be done to end the epidemic as outlined in Governor Andrew Cuomo’s Task Force to End AIDS. The NBLCA national theme, “365: Engaged Every Day,” recognizes that the epidemic cannot be solved in one day!

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Buffalo & Erie County Public Library Request for Proposals No. 1503VF Youth & Young Adult Mentoring, Peacekeeping, & Library Use Interface Services The Library has issued the above request for proposals (RFP). Specific requirements are detailed in the RFP. SEALED PROPOSALS must be received by Kenneth Stone, Deputy Director, Buffalo & Erie County Public Library, 1 Lafayette Square, Buffalo, NY 14203, no later than 3:00 PM Easternl time on February 24, 2015. Interested parties may obtain a copy of the RFP at www.buffalolib.org or www.erie. gov

The NBLCA achieves its mission through working with community leaders, clergy, public officials, medical practitioners, and those in business, civic, social policy, and media. NBLCA is committed to the task of promoting healthy communities. In getting to zero new diagnoses in the African American community your contribution to the quest matters in combating this potentially life threating disease. For more information visit www. nblca.org. The mission of the National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS, Inc. (NBLCA) is to educate, mobilize, and empower black leaders to meet the challenge of fighting HIV/AIDS and other health disparities in their local communities. For more information, visit www.nblca.org.

DR. BARBARA NEVERGOLD continued determine employment opportunities, tenure and salary. “Aaron Pallas of Teachers College says it is unfair to use the Common Core test scores to gauge achievement because they have a different passing mark from the previous tests. Only 30% passed the Common Core tests, but the year before, 80% were passing. The teachers didn’t suddenly get worse. The State Commissioner decided to change the standards.” (Diane Ravitch’s Blog) And most disturbing, the Governor calls for breaking “one of the only remaining public monopolies,” referring to public education, while he’d increase the number of charter schools but not call for increased accountability of these privately run, publicly funded institutions. Finally, it appears to make little difference that Buffalo is listed as the third poorest city in the Nation and that poverty correlates with student educational success or that New York State has been named as the most segregated in the Nation exacerbating the poverty impact. We are in the crosshairs and those taking aim, plan to strip our communities of inclusion/participation in the public education system.

EM P LOY M EN T

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MANAGER, SERVICE PLANNING Job Number 008-15-N Please visit www.nfta.com to view complete job description and employment application. To apply: Send NFTA employment application, resume and cover letter specifying the job number 008-15-N to: Human Resources, 181 Ellicott Street, Buffalo, NY 14203 Application Deadline: February 20, 2015 The NFTA is an EOE.

JOBS

Buffalo Employment and Training Center, 77 Goodell St., Buffalo, ,856-5627/ Fax 7856-5670 www.workforcebuffalo.org The BETC is here to help with your job searching needs. Free services to all jobseekers looking to find better paying work, an exciting new career, or wanting to upgrade skills to become more marketable in today’s marketplace. Orientation Times: Monday – Thursday, 10 am or 2 pm.

IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE!

ROOMS FOR RENT Rooms for Rent: Delavan and Oakgrove ; Bailey and Delavan, everything included. Only things needed is your food and clothes. $325 - 450 plus deposit. Call 716-818-3410.

BUSINESS FOR SALE

Business for Sale: Main Street, Theatre District. Great Potential. 465-8696.

Challenger Community News • January 28, 2015

RADNEY’S SPORTS UPDATE

NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS

3-WAY

SUN 1/18

MON 1/19

TUES 1/20

WED 1/21 THURS 1/22 FRI 1/23 SAT 1/24

MID -441 MID-012 MID-260 MID-234 MID -635 MID-076 EVE-096 EVE-591 EVE-838 EVE-526 EVE-004 EVE-824

WIN 4

MID- 4480 EVE-8114

TAKE 5

5-9-16-36-38 3-5-6-25-29 19-20-23-26-29 8-10-14-17-21 2-4-17-18-29 6-14-16-19-35 5-7-8-32-36

MID - 0405 EVE - 7998

LOTTO

MID- 8032 EVE- 1338

HOT TIPS

416

663

MID- 8505 EVE- 1771

471

181

356-890-012-789-054-245-132-987-326-190237-487-780-435-378-261-189-328-198-436335-567-920-845-213-576-800-108-457-915 490-256-588-749-654 0069-2980-7690-5050 “Believe in miracles but don’t depend on them”

JANUARY MONTHLY VIBES

523-923-632-145-234569-657-137-830-173

MID -0563 EVE- 4364

12-19-35-41-56-58 #29

Zakiyyah’s Rundown (ZR)

Billy Bye Bye Sez:

MID- 3220 EVE- 3724

MID-354 EVE-890

“its In The Stars”

Aquarius -681-972-897 Pisces - 136-663-169 Cancer - 285-123-018 Aries - 699-370-790 Taurus - 796-312-661 Gemini-652-106-305-257 Leo-210-840-345-312 Virgo -562-174-748 Libra -238-865-117 Scorpio - 679-411-956 Sagittarius - 147-685-923 Capricorn: 583-269-508

quick money $$$$ THE NUMBER BOOK 189-809-444 886-980-422 322-522-355 800-592-390 394-833-924 127-909-418 927-313-466 124-550-525 583-269-508 Grandma’s JANUARY Picks 435-780-912-789-085-689-657-989-

Best Triple for Month of January 888 “Hit it Straight!”

Doubles - No Mo’ Troubles! 443-588-202-335 Bee’s Pix: “All My Children”

412-225-654-402-201-471-557

MID-2821 EVE-1620

3-6-30-41-45-56 #54

225

648

117

Challenger Hits Midday 354 -Zakiyyah’s Rundown Box, Leo Box, The Number Book Straight 635- Sakiyyah’s Run Down Box 234 -January Vibes Straight, Luckie Duckie Box Evening 890 - Zakiyyah’s Run Down Straight, The Number Book Straight & Box Quick Money Box, Luckie Duckie Box 526- Billie Bye Bye Box , Gemini Box, Virgo Box 591 -Zakiyyah’s Run Down Box LUCKIE DUCKIE

335 -2015-4444 $more $more! 134-431-143

648*123*104

980-422-809

981-989-970-990-080800 390-196-102-581-752319-408-378-352-126

189-444-886-202

322-522-412-432-421423

3-Way Winning Numbers Last Year 02/07/2014 Evening 02/07/2014 Midday 02/06/2014 Evening 02/06/2014 Midday 02/05/2014 Evening 02/05/2014 Midday 02/04/2014 Evening 02/04/2014 Midday 02/03/2014 Evening 02/03/2014 Midday 02/02/2014 Evening 02/02/2014 Midday 02/01/2014 Evening 02/01/2014 Midday 01/31/2014 Evening 01/31/2014 Midday 01/30/2014 Evening 01/30/2014 Midday 01/29/2014 Evening 01/29/2014 Midday 01/28/2014 Evening 01/28/2014 Midday

2014

6-3-6 4-6-8 2-4-7 4-7-3 5-9-9 8-5-5 7-7-7 3-0-3 3-1-5 6-9-3 2-5-6 0-3-4 5-2-3 5-2-4 6-2-2 0-6-4 9-5-5 1-9-8 3-5-7 7-6-6 1-0-8 2-0-3

Ernie Banks

‘Mr. Cub’ Ernie Banks dies at 83 Ernie Banks, the man whose Hall of Fame baseball career was defined by his passion and energy – and was only surpassed by his kindness and loyalty, died on Friday. He was 83. A family spokesman confirmed the news late Friday evening. Few details were made available, but it was announced that a news conference will be held at noon CST on Sunday in Chicago. Known the world over as “Mr. Cub,” Banks broke in on Chicago’s North Side in 1953 and never left. Not only would Chicago be the only stop in a baseball career that spanned 19 seasons, it’s where his heart remained for 43 years after his retirement. He loved the city, he loved Cubs fans and he loved being their ambassador to points all over the world. That love was returned tenfold, and will no doubt continue to be expressed to his family as it grieves. The sports world immediately took to Twitter to react to his passing. On the field, Banks was simply one of the best to ever play the game. Over those 19 seasons, he hit .274/.330/.500 with 2,583 hits, 512 homers, 1,636 RBI and 1,305 runs scored. Those numbers earned Banks 14 All-Star Game selections and two MVP awards, in addition to baseball’s ultimate honor, induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Banks was inducted in his first ballot, receiving 83.8 percent of the vote in 1977. Banks was the anchor in a lineup that also featured Hall of Famers Billy Williams and Ron Santo. For a time, he was an anchor on the field as well, spending many of his early days manning shortstop, baseball’s most important defensive position. Most importantly, though, Banks was an anchor in the clubhouse and in the community, always offering an optimistic take or inspirational word to brighten the team’s outlook or the day of a fan he’d only met moments before. His most famous saying – “Let’s play two!” – speaks to the seemingly endless enthusiasm with which he played and lived. If he could have, he would have played two every day, and maybe even three if someone asked. That never changed, even as the organization he loved moved further and further from a World Series victory. It’s such a shame, too, that Banks won’t live to see a Cubs world championship. But there’s no doubt he’d simply smile and say he’ll be more happy for the fans who eventually will enjoy that moment. He was a one-of-a-kind baseball player and a one-of-a-kind person that defined everything that’s good about sports. But it’s the entire world that was better off for having known him.

Food for Thought… Missouri Governor Jay Nixon on Friday released plans for a brand new waterfront Stadium in St Louis which would hope to be completed in 2020. HKS Inc. plans for the city of Buffalo are still on the table, and would create 10-15,000 living wage jobs in the region. The plans being put forth by others do not even come close to the reve

Challenger Community News • January 28, 2015

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Wednesday January 28

Thursday January 29

Thursday February 5

ECC hosts motivational speaker Dion Jordan 11a.m. at ECC South in the Faculty Dining Room Bldg 54041 Southwestern Blvd Orchard Park . Free and open to the public

Health and Healing Circle: 2-4 pm 70 Harvard Place; for info: myhealthyadvantage@ yahoo.com or call 218-0373

Thursday Night “Roc Da Mic - Feed the People: 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. @The Foundry, 298 Northland St., hosted by Ishmael & Company.

7th Eye on History Awards at the Frank E. Merriweather Library from 4pm – 6pm This Program is Free & Open to Public

EOP Information Session 6-8pm at Buffalo Educational Opportunity Center, 555 Ellicott St. Buffalo To register call 716 645-6900

Charter School of Inquiry Community Meeting , 6pm at Ed Saunders Community Center, 2777 Bailey Ave.

Regular Board Meeting 5:30 pm Buffalo Academy for Visual & Performing Arts 450 Masten Ave. Big Brother Big Sisters of Erie County (BBBSEC) Big Mixer and Information and Networking event from 5:307:30pm at Providence Social in Buffalo 490 Rhode Island Street rsvp bigs@beafriend. org or call 873-5833 ext 240 more info www.beafriend. org PEACE is sponsoring Outreach for Survivors of Homicide Victims at 608 William St. info 842-8700 or 2185596 or www.Peace-buffalo. org ( no time listed)

The Durham Central City Baby Café: every Wednesday and Thursday 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. 200 E. Eagle in the Durham Outreach Center. Dinner is free! Doris Gayles 885-6348 Khametic Ascendants: 9-10 a.m. & 12:30 am (after midnight), public Access Channel 20. Board of Education Meeting: 5:30 p.m., 801 City Hall, public invited to attend Thursday January 29 ECC hosts motivational speaker Dion Jordan 11a.m. at ECC North Student Lounge, S Building at 6205 Main Street Williamsville . Free and open to the public

The Durham Central City Baby Café: every Wednesday and Thursday 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. 200 E. Eagle in the Durham Outreach Center. Dinner is free! Doris Gayles 885-6348 Health and Healing Circle: 2-4 pm 70 Harvard Place; for info: myhealthyadvantage@ yahoo.com or call 218-0373. Saturday January 31 Black Chamber of Commerce of WNY 1st General meeting of 2015, 11am-1pm at Delavan Grider Community Center 877 E. Delavan ave at Moselle. Continental Breakfast info call 995-0622. NAN 2nd Annual From Homicide to healing Ecumenical Prayer Service. Open to Family & Friends who have lost a loved one to homicide. Info 299-8299. Buffalo Prep Accepting Applications for Middle School ( grades 5th , 6th and 7th 6pm at Buffalo Public Library Niagara Branch 280 Porter Ave more info- info@buffaloprep. com Tuesday February 3 Regular Monthly Board Meeting of the Charter School of Inquiry Board of Trustees: 4:45 pm., Delavan Grider Community Center, 877 E. Delavan. 866-3876 or email charterschoolofinqiry@gmail. com Wednesday February 4 Wild N Out Poetry Slam: Merriweather Library, 5:307:45 p.m.; cash prizes, 6025887; free; hosted by We Are W omen Warriors & Legislator Betty Jean Grant EOC Downtown Market Career Training and Job Fair 10am – 1pm 555 Ellicott more info 645-1925 Khametic Ascendants: 9-10 a.m. & 12:30 am (after midnight), public Access Channel 20.

Friday February 6 Scholars@Hallwalls Life for Life: Tithes and Blessings in Buffalo’s African-American Churches: 4 p.m. Hallwalls Contemporary Arts Center, 341 Delaware Ave. ; free and open to the public.

Black History Month Poetry Slam Kick Off In honor of Black History Month, the 1st Annual Wild ‘N’ Out Poetry Slam (Buffalo style) will be held on Wednesday, February 4 at the Frank E. Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Ave. from 5:30-7:45 p.m. A talented group of performers, calling themselves Team Ujima or Team Umoja (in honor of Kwanzaa), will compete for the Wild ‘N’ Out Poetry Slam championship! Cash prizes will be awarded to the winning team and all performers will be given a Certificate of Merit from the Erie County Legislature. There are only a few slots left so if you wish to participate please phone or text to (716) 602-5877. This event is free and the public is invited to attend and help kick off Black History Month (February) in Buffalo. This event is sponsored by Erie County Legislator Betty Jean Grant and the We Are Women Warriors Community & Family Empowerment group.

Dressing Up for Black History Month Contest Adults and students in grades 4-12 are invited to dress up as a Black historical figure and do a 3-5 minute presentation of that person’s achievements during the Black History Dress Up Contest on Saturday, February 7 from 2-5 p.m. at the Merriweather Libaray, Jefferson and Utica. The deadline to sign up on the day of the contest is 2:30 p.m. Call 847-6010 or 5075280 for more information.

TRADITION KEEPERS: Members of the Black Storytellers of WNY top. Above, national storytelling contest winners Sharon Holley (left) and Denise Chapman Acosta.

Buffalo Takes Top Honors in National Storytelling Contest Tradition Keepers: Black Storytellers of WNY, is an affiliate of the National Association of Black Storytellers, Inc. Last year, the Association advertised its second National Storytelling Contest "Lighting The Way...Stories of Our Heroes/Sheroes - Past & Present, In Our Homes, Our Community, and in Our Nation." Buffalo took the top two honors. Sharon Holley won first place with "Daddy's Girl" and second place went to Denise Chapman Acosta for "Grandma: A Recipe for Life.” The third place honor went to Judy Bateman of South Euclid, OH for "From Shining Shoes to Politics." Videos can be seen on the NABS website nabsinc.org. During the first night of this year’s Kwanzaa celebration the community was treated to the winning performances by Sister Sharon and Sister Denise, who delivered their beautifully crafted renditions in the true “Tradition” of Black storytelling. Tradition Keepers meet on the second Thursday of the month at 7 pm at the Pratt Community Center. The group offers workshops for storytellers, quarterly storytelling programs at the Merriweather Library, a one-day conference in April "Tell Me A Story," a pre-Juneteenth activity "Git On Da Bus," and special programs such as "Griot Stroll". Sharon Holley is the President and can be contacted at 716-886-1399.

Selma Youth Exhibit An exhibit “ Selma Youth Choir (1965): In Spirit and Song” is currently on display at Frank E. Merriweather Library, Jefferson and E. Utica, thru Feb 12. The exhibit is a collection of memorabilia as the choir traveled across the nation carrying the word about racism in Selma and the Civil Rights Movement there. They performed selections from classical music to spirituals. Members were selected from the R.B. Hudson High choir, directed by Perry L. Anderson and accompanied by student, Quentin L. Lane. The exhibit is a tribute to youth from the former high school, now a public middle school, which has been placed on the national Historic Register “for the contributions of its students during the Civil Rights Movement.” A Commemorative Edition of the choir’s music recorded in 1965 will be made available during the 50th Anniversary Jubilee Celebration in Selma at the Foot Soldiers breakfast where former students will gather for a reunion and student activists from the 60’s will be honored for their vision and commitment to Civil Rights. The exhibit is also on display at the Audubon Library in Williamsville thru Feb. 10. A presentation will be given at the Merriweather Library in on Feb 12 .

Challenger Community News • January 28, 2015

IMAGES OF US: THE LINKS

“Thank You” from The Erie County Chapter of The Links, Incorporated The Erie County Chapter of The Links, Incorporated extend a sincere “thank you” to the community for their generosity and support of their Annual Night on The Town Scholarship Dinner Dance, which has enabled the chapter to award over $15,000 in college scholarships to deserving college-bound students in area high schools this year. We are grateful for sponsorship support from M&T Bank, Dr. Warren Barbour and Ms Toni Booker. Over the past 28 years, the chapter has awarded over $350,000. “Sparkling in Black” was the theme for the evening of dinner, dancing and entertainment at Samuel’s Grande Manor on November 8th. The ballroom glittered as guests dined by candlelight. Chapter members Gladys Diji, Catherine Lewis, Mary Ruth Kapsiak, Charlene Galloway, Cullie Brown, Redahlia Riggins, Janet Barnes and Mattie Rhodes portraying California raisins entertained guests with a comical performance to “I Heard It through the Grapevine.” Heir-o-Links Janine Glover and Eric Lewis served as Emcees. Links Mattie Rhodes, Chairperson, Catherine Lewis and Redahlia Riggins, Co-chairs, Barbara Glover, Entertainment Chair, Joyce Harrington, Chapter President.