Challenger Community News February 19, 2020

INSIDE ROCHESTER: THE 8TH ANNUAL ROC AWARDS RETURNS!

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February 19, 2020 | FREE |

Brenda Calhoun

Don Patterson

Dorothy Wagstaff

Felicia Stanley

Jason Rowe

Keyon Lee

“My Way Was the Wrong Way!” Black Tie For Black Open Letter From Donald “Sly”Green History Extravaganza Names An to Young Brothers in the Street Struggle 2020 Awardees Page 9 Page 11

LOCAL

New Trial Date Set for Sis. Jeannie’s Attacker in Hate Crime Assault Page 3

LEGACY

Norzell “Nore” Aldridge Street Sign Unveiled Page 3

NATIONAL

Race Matters: Trump’s Latest Travel Ban on Nigeria Page 4

CALLING ALL POETS! 3rd Lonnie B. Harrell Poetry Edition Deadline February 29! See Ad Page 5

PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID BUFFALO, N.Y. PERMIT NO. 164

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Februar y 19,2020

Black History Month: The Roc Awards Show Returns For 8th Year

T Cephas Archie

Digging For Dirt?

As if the removal of the popular former diversity officer Cephas Archie did not cause enough outrage, including student protests, the actions of the Brockport police chief has reignited the flame. Chief Vasile contacted a former colleague of Archie’s and asked if she had “any information to share” about him.

Her response was that she had no idea what he was talking about.

Archie's lawyer released a statement saying it appeared Vasile was trying to "dig up dirt" on Archie.

The following statement released by college President Heidi Macpherson’s office ordered the matter closed: “The President’s Office recently received an anonymous voicemail from an individual who claimed to have information about a former employee of the College. Because of the nature of the allegations, the voicemail was shared with our chief of police for his records. While the police chief did look into this allegation, our own review revealed that since this employee no longer works for the College and the allegations pre-date their employment, the inquiry should not have occurred.

The President has ordered the chief to cease this inquiry. "

TALK PRO P L U S Hosted by

The Radman

(George Radney) &

The Mighty O’Ba (Patrick Freeman)

105.5 FM “The Beat” Rochester Every Saturday 7AM – 8AM “Taking you to the locker room and beyond!”

he Roc Award Cares initiative in conjunction with the We Before Me Foundation Inc., will host the organizations 8th Roc Awards Show at Monroe Community College Theater, Brighton Campus. Sunday, February 23 at 5 p.m. Doors at 3:30 p.m.

The Roc Awards Show is an annual black-tie event filled with award recognition, musical performances, spoken word, dance and more. The event recognizes members of Rochester’s urban community for their talent and contributions to their community. After a lengthy nominee selection process, local residents vote for award nominees in the areas of education, human services, entertainment, beauty, health and wellness. Winners are announced at the awards show.

The event began in 2013 after comedian Yolanda Smilez and a team of friends realized there were a number of gifted people in the City of Rochester, specifically in urban communities that go unrecognized for their contributions in areas such as education, human services, entertainment, health and wellness. The Roc Awards Show has over 45 award categories, including Best Author, Best Stage Play, Salon of the Year and Male Hip Hop Artist of the Year.

The Membership That Covers Any Legal Matter

At The Baobab...

728 University Ave. 585-563-2145

•Tuesdays Gentle Yoga series with JAMES THOMPSON, 5:45-7:45 p.m.

• • • • •

Landlord / Tenant Issues Property Disputes Traffic Tickets Identity Theft Starting A Business

Black Culture Reigns Supreme at NBA ALL Star Weekend!

If you watched any of the festivities during NBA All Star weekend in Chicago you might have noticed how NBA players have the most authority in how they are presented through the media.

NBA all-star weekend had almost triple the Black media outlets allowed to cover the events. We saw a tribute to Kobe Bryant featuring magic Johnson, Jennifer Hudson, and Common followed by a game featuring one team wearing number 24 while other squad wore number 2 in Honoring the late Kobe Bryant and his daughter respectively, who both along with seven others lost their lives in a tragic helicopter crash. Chance the rapper performed at halftime along with DJ Khaled (He seems to be everywhere, after seeing him all over South Beach less than two weeks ago) and a real horn section on another tribute to Kobe Bryant. Did you happen to see commercials associated with All Star game having Black actors in prominent leading roles?

The slam dunk had its own controversy. Everyone could see (including Ray Charles) that Aaron Gordon should have been the winner of the contest. The rookie game saw Zion Williamson playing and breaking the rim after one of his dunks along with former President of the United States Barack Obama visiting with NBA rookie players at their practice in Chicago. Mr. Obama was even more impressed by knowing Zion Williamson stats and gave the young man some encouragement for his life and career. The fashion styles and glamour was all Black Culture throughout the entire weekend.

The biggest move by the NBA was to award money to Black organizations in the Windy City. The Black Scholars Inc. was award 400,000 from Team LeBron winning the game and Team Gianni’s donated 100,000 to their charity which both are helping Black children. The Black Scholars Inc. is very similar to Urban League of Rochester Black Scholar Program. The NFL, which is predominantly Black football players, should take a page out of NBA’s All Star weekend by incorporating some Black culture into their Pro Bowl weekend. The NFL players should make sure to donate money to our children’s programs.

It’s not a bad thing to have rappers participating in all Continued Page 7

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• Friday Film Series

2/28 Friday Film Series, Manuscripts from Timbuktu

7:00 p.m. $7 suggested donation

•Saturdays Drumming with FANA BANGOURA, 9:30 a.m.10:30a.m., 10:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

AROUND TOWN

SPORTS REPORT / GEORGE RADNEY

Marquis Neal

SATURDAYS Hustle for Health Urban line dancing with Jazzy T & Ty Stewart at East High School: 1801 E. Main St, Rochester. 11a.m. -12 p.m.

Free for 18+ Call 716 -800 1196.

6th Annual Bronze Collective The 6th Annual Bronze Collective Theatre, which runs Feb 16-23, with its theme of Moving Forward is producing its most expansive festival to date, offering eight productions in seven days.

This year, particular interest is given to two productions: Monologues on Clarissa Street by Karen Culley (Saturday, Feb. 22) and Clarissa Street Reflections (Sunday, Feb. 23), a doubleheader: "Remembering The Pythodd," a documentary by Tina Chapman DaCosta and the jazz musings of Paradigm Shift. David Shakes is organizer of the Sunday afternoon event.

Audiences can see each Clarissa St. production individually or get in on the "Clarissa Street Package" deal for those interested in both.

Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door or $49.99 for a Festival pass or $25 for a Clarissa St. package.

For more information go to ROCHESTERBC.ORG

HUGE 50% OFF SALE PLUS 30% �

Saturday February 29 11am-Spm & Sunday March 1 Noon-Spm LAYAWAY AVAILABLE

Louis Kallinikos & Sons

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Februar y 19,2020

AREA BRIEFS

Black Tie For Black History Extravaganza Names 2020 Awardees

F Norzell “Nore” Aldridge (inset).

Trailblazing Sign in Honor of Norzell “Nore” Aldridge” Unveiled A ceremony to officially proclaim the corner of Koons Avenue and Sycamore Street Norzell “Nore” Aldridge Way took place Tuesday morning (Feb. 18). Mr. Aldlridge, a beloved youth football coach, was shot on the corner now bearing his name last August 31 following a football game.

He later died at ECMC. The proclamation of the “Nore Aldridge Way” located near the Harvey Austin School, is the first act by Fillmore District Council Member Mitch Nowakowski who hosted the event. He was supported by Masten District Council Member Ulysees O. Wingo Sr.; University district Council Member Rasheed N.C. Wyatt; Lovejoy District Council Member Bryan Bollman; Buffalo Peacemakers and Best Elite Ducks Coach Douglas “Rome” Hunt.

Dr. Crystal M. Fleming to Deliver Keynote Address for SUNY Buffalo State Black History Month Program On Tuesday, February 25 from 12:15-1:30 p.m. in the Auditorium of the Burchfield Penney Art Center on the campus of Buffalo State College, Dr. Crystal M. Fleming will deliver a Keynote Address for Black History Month. The event is free and open to the public. She is the nationally recognized author of How to Be Less Stupid About Race.Dr. Dr. Fleming Fleming earned her PhD in Sociology from Harvard University and is now an Associate Professor of Sociology and Africana Studies and Associate Faculty in the Department of Women's, Gender & Sexuality Studies at SUNY Stony Brook. She will be signing copies of her book after her presentation.

Grant, Patton Co-Host "The Red Black & Green Show" Betty Jean Grant and Sherry Sherrill Patton invite the community to join them for The Red, Black and Green Show every Saturday at 8 AM on WJJL-1440 AM Radio. The name of the broadcast showcases the colors of the Black Liberation Movement. "The Red, Black & Green Show is a new, interactive talk radio show that seeks to inform, Betty Grant educate and empower the listening audience and also to highlight what is happening in the African American community and around the Western NY region," states former Legislator and community activist Grant. The Call In number for the show is (716) 602-5877.

or the 12th consecutive year, The Black Tie for Black History Extravaganza will bring the city’s Black History Month celebration to a classy and fitting close by honoring outstanding people in the community’ The much anticipated event will take place on Friday, February 28 from 7 – 11 p.m. at the Metropolitan Entertainment Complex, 1670 Main Street.

“These are people who make a difference…people who are doing things under the radar,” said founder and promoter Marnetta Malcolm.

“We invite the community to come out to the event and learn just how fantastic they are. We want people to come out and feel the love!

The 2020 Black Tie for Back History honorees are: •Jason Rowe: Bishop Timon Head Varsity Basketball Coach, Assistant Athletic Director •Brenda Calhoun: Calhoun Insurance Agency, Onxy Global Group President and Founder •Dorothy Wagstaff: Owner, Princess Photography Author, 'Dam Girl!! But God' •Felicia Stanley: Best Self Behavioral Health - The Lighthouse Women's Residence Family Specialist and Trauma Therapist, No

May 19, 1925 - Feb. 21, 1965

Wounds Untreated Inc., Cofounder and Executive Director •Don Patterson: Director, Buffalo State College Upward Bound Program, NYS Golden Glove President, USA Boxing Niagara District President •Keyon Lee: No Wounds Untreated Inc. Co-Founder and Board President, Bestselling author, "Tears Of Our Children" “All our honorees are doing fantastic things,” Marnetta continued. “They have made an impact. We want people to come out and hear their stories!"

Marnetta, came up with the idea of “Black Tie For Black History” in 2007 along with her friend Gregory Prachett.

A former radio sales promoter and marketing execu-

tive, she promotes and organizes the yearly event and remains passionate about continuing to make it happen because, as she says, “people making a difference in the community should always be recognized.”

Tickets are $30 and are available at Doris Records.

Entertainment will be provided by DJ Big Poppa and DJ Papa Trini. Net proceeds will benefit NICYO. “It’s a well-attended affair,” concluded Marnetta.

“But it's not your traditional award ceremony – it’s a party with a purpose! The event is being sponsored by Dr. Catherine Collins, CASNY, Geneva’s Auto, Camellia Foods, Ron Walker MVP, AM 1400, Power 96.5, The Challenger Community News, American Commodore Tuxedo and the Urban Chamber of Commerce.

We Demand Justice for Sister Jeanneie!

Last July 16 an African American Muslim woman, Mrs. Jeanneie Muhammad, was assaulted by a hand-gun brandishing White man after a minor traffic incident in North Buffalo.

Her keys were snatched out of her car, he tried to take her purse and a struggle ensued. Mrs. Muhammad was thrown to the ground and he drew a hand gun on her and residents who had come to her aid. Fortunately the incident was video taped and posted. Sister Jeanneie suffered damage to her knee and a concussion.

Jeffrey Calhoun, 62, of Lockport, was indicted on two felony charges of unlawful imprisonment and menacing — both as hate crimes — in addition to a count of assault and criminal impersonation of an officer.

His trial has been scheduled for Tuesday, March 3 before Judge Christopher J. Burns in Part 19 of County Court, 25 Delaware.

We demand justice for Sister Jeanneie!

Bro. Dahveed and his wife Sis. Jeanneie Muhammad.

Malcolm X

The spark who sought to ignite equality by any means necessary

M

alcolm X was royalty. He was the American Dream whether America wanted him to be or not. Born Malcolm Little, Malcolm X overcame drug addiction and a life of crime to become one of the country’s foremost civil rights leaders and champions of Black pride in the 20th century.

Malcolm X converted to Islam while serving a six-year prison sentence for burglary in Massachusetts. In just two years after his 1952 release from prison, he became a minister in the Nation of Islam under the Honorable Elijah Muhammad and led temples in Boston, Philadelphia and New York.

In 1957, Malcolm X founded the Nation of Islam newspaper Muhammad Speaks. The paper remains one of his lasting legacies as it was the medium for him to spread his revolutionary message. His philosophies on black pride, black beauty and black power spread widely across the country — for a time in the 1960s it was the most widely read Black newspaper in the United States, boasting a circulation in the 100,000s. Malcolm X’s theories became the blueprint for the black power movements of the ’60s and ’70s. Malcolm X also receives credit for cultivating the notion that “black is beautiful.” From 1952 to Malcolm X’s murder in Continued Page 10

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LOCAL/NATIONAL

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Februar y 19,2020

Maat Law Academy To Provide A Wealth of Information About Criminal Law And More!

Millions of Africans Now Banned From Coming to America Trump’s Expanded Travel Ban Targets Four African Nations Including Nigeria - A Shock to Many

On Jan. 31, the Trump administration expanded its country-specific travel ban by barring immigrants from Eritrea, Kyrgyzstan, Myanmar, Nigeria, Sudan and Tanzania.

Nigeria is home to Africa’s largest population and economy.

The decision cuts off pathways to permanent US residency for Nigerians, who account for the single largest African immigrants in the U.S. with a population of about 400,000 people, according to the 2016 American Community Survey.

Ruth Ellen Wasem, a professor of policy practice at the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs, the University of Texas in Austin, writes: “The new ban specifically targets Nigeria the African nation with the most robust economy, a baffling decision from an economic perspective. Research from the New American Economy found: “African immigrants earned $55.1 billion in 2015. Their households paid $10.1 billion in federal taxes and $4.7 billion in state and local taxes — giving African immigrants an estimated spending power of more than $40.3 billion that year.” As the largest source country for African immigrants in the United States, Nigerians are driving much of this economic energy.

“According to the Migration Policy Institute (MPI), Nigerians are among the best educated new arrivals to the United States and have one of the lowest rates of limited English proficiency. Nigerian immigrants are matched only by Chinese and Indian immigrants in that more than half are employed in management, business, science and art occupations. MPI also found that Nigerians are mo re likely to have private health insurance and become naturalized citizens.

“That the new travel ban focuses largely on successful immigrants from Africa smacks of racism and serves to further inflame the sociocultural tensions that have polarized our nation. "

"Come and be a part of Black History on Saturday, February 22 from noon the 2 p.m. at the CAO Rafi Greene Center when The Maat Law Academy discussion on Criminal Law with Attorney Craig D. Carson will take place.

This is a family friendly event and all youth are invited (youth can earn four community service hours to participate in the discussion) and any law Attorney Carson professionals (Black police officers, Black attorneys, Black Judges etc.) to join in the discussion.

Participants will learn what the Maat Law Academy is, the principals of Ma'at as well as a robust discussion on Criminal Law. There will be a Black History quiz along with raffles and prizes. In addition, team building exercises with youth and adults acting out law scenarios will take place as well as a self-defense lesson and what to do if you are stopped by a police officer. Also taught will be what the rules when filming a police officer are. This event is free and open to the public. Please bring "Healthy Snacks" to share.

Attorney Carson was raised in the diverse and rich cultural climate of the 19th Ward section of Rochester, N.Y. He attended Temple University in Philadelphia, PA, graduating in 2006 with a bachelor of the arts in Communications and a minor in Psychology. Shortly thereafter, Mr. Carson, who considers himself “ The People’s Advocate,” attended Ohio Northern University and obtained his Juris Doctorate in 2009.

eat to live

Hon. Minister Farrakhan

Thousands Expected to Attend Saviour’s Day This Weekend Thousands of believers and supporters are expected to converge on Detroit, Michigan this weekend Feb. 2124 for Saviours’ Day 2020.

The highlight of the weekend will be the keynote message from the nation’s leader on Sunday, Feb. 3, The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan. This Year’s convention will take place at the TCF Convention Center in Detroit, Michigan. For more information , registration and tickets visit www. noi.org/sd2020

BE A PART OF THE

Harriet Tubman

PARADE & PROGRAM Against Poverty and For Community Unity In Celebration of Harriet’s Courage & in Support of Her Deserving to Grace the $20 Bill

Saturday, March 7 Merriweather Library, Jefferson & Utica 2-4 P.M.

To sign up to march in the parade or to paticipate contact Betty Jean Grant at (716) 602-5877.

To make a poetry, theatrical or musical presentation during the library program, please contact Sherry Sherrill at (716) 430-1158. PARADE ROUTE: The parade route starts at the NFTA’s East Utica Street Metro Station, proceeds down Main Street, turns on East Ferry,turns on Jefferson and ends at the Merriweather Library on Jefferson Ave. for the after-march program

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Februar y 19,2020

A BLACK HISTORY FOCUS ON BUFFALO’S EDUCATION SYSTEM 29 People Who Broke Barriers To Make History During Black History Month, Friends for A Better Buffalo will highlight Buffalo African American Educators, Support Staff, and Administrators who created the path forward for Buffalo students. The social media campaign, highlighted on the Facebook Page Excellence in Education Awards Buffalo, will feature a Buffalo educator in history every day throughout the month of February. https:// www.facebook.com/ExcellenceinEducationBuffalo/ “The work and contributions of many of our Buffalo

educators are often unknown and unrecognized,” stated Terrance L. Heard, founder and president of Friends For a Better Buffalo. “Throughout the month, we will bring to the forefront the work of these diverse individuals who have contributed to building educational paths for success for our students across the country”.

The organization’s salute to Buffalo educators began this month and culminates in May, with an all-inclusive black-tie event honoring nominated educators representing Buffalo Public, Pri-

vate and Charter schools. On Saturday, May 2, 2020, the organization, with community partner, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, will roll out the red carpet and host the first Excellence in Education Awards Buffalo. The organization is asking that schools and the community submit nominations to honor current teachers, administrators, and support staff who have made an extraordinary difference in our schools. Nominations are accepted through February 28th at www.friendsforabetterbuffalo.org.

Heard adds, "It is our privilege to recognize teachers, support staff such as resource officers, cafeteria or maintenance employees, and school administrators’ commitment to Buffalo and Western New York and to celebrate them for being an unyielding force for our students and the community”.

The public is invited to attend the Excellence in Education Awards Buffalo. Learn More at https://www.eventbrite. com/o/friends-for-a-betterbuffalo-29337588571

PRO TALK P L U S

Health Benefits of Fruits and Vegetables

Here are some of the surprising health benefits of fruits and vegetables.

1. Cardiovascular health A diet rich in fruit and vegetables can lower your risk for heart disease. Potassium, which can be found in bananas, may help the body maintain a healthy blood pressure. In addition, the dietary fiber found in vegetables can assist with lowering blood cholesterol levels as well as the risk of heart disease. The higher your average daily consumption of fruits and vegetables, the lower your risk of developing cardiovascular disease. . Vegetables such as broccoli, mustard greens, and cabbage, and fruits such as oranges, grapefruit, and lemons are the vegetables and fruits most likely to help

boost cardiovascular health.

2. Lower cancer risk Studies have shown fruits and vegetables can help reduce the risk of some cancers. Vegetables such as bok choy, broccoli, and cabbage, and most fruit may add an additional layer of cancerfighting protection.

3. Reduced diabetes risk If you love green, leafy vegetables, you’re in luck. Research shows that eating a lot of green leafy vegetables

and fruit has been correlated with a reduced diabetes risk.

Adding berries to your diet could also lower your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

4. Better digestive health The fiber content of fruits and vegetables helps keep your digestive system running smoothly. A diet rich in fiber (but don’t forget to drink plenty of water) is a great way to stave off constipation and keep you healthy and comfortable.

It Matters...

When you’re diagnosed with cancer, it’s important to take the time to educate yourself and spend just one day with our experts to make sure you’re making the best decision for you and your family.

Hosted by

The Radman

(George Radney) &

The Mighty O’Ba (Patrick Freeman)

105.5 FM “The Beat” Rochester Every Saturday 7AM – 8AM “Taking you to the locker room and beyond!”

Find out why it matters. Download the cancer checklist at www.RoswellPark.org/Challenger

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FAITH & FAMILY

Miracle Missions Church Heads to Lancaster, PA. To See Production of the Stage Play “Queen Esther”!

Dr. James A. Lewis III, Senior Pastor and Miracle Missions Full Gospel Church to host trip to Sight & Sound Theater in Lancaster, PA to see the stage play QUEEN ESTHER. Set in the opulent yet perilous Persian Empire, QUEEN ESTHER is a captivating tale of beauty and bravery. Esther’s ordinary life changed forever when she was taken through the palace doors, entering a new world of royalty and risk.

With a crown on her head and a secret in her heart, can she find the courage to trust in God’s plan and believe that she was made for such a time as this?

The trip offered will leave Mount Olive Baptist Church located at 701 E. Delavan, Buffalo NY 14215, at 8:00 am August 7, 2020. The group will stop for lunch August 7, and shopping August 8 all at the expense of the attendee. The trip cost includes transportation, play ticket, hotel, breakfast and dinner on August 7 and lunch August 8, 2020. The group will stay overnight at the selected hotel. The group will attend the play at 7:00 pm on August 7, 2020. The group will shop on Saturday, August 8, 2020 and have lunch at a restaurant before returning home.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Februar y 19,2020

The True Bethel CommUniversity is Rolling!

Buffalo – On February 22, True Bethel Baptist Church will hold its next week of community empowerment at its biweekly CommUniversity.

The CommUniverstiy will serve as a series of free empowerment workshops for the community at large. The workshops will include professional development, financial literacy, community organizing and everything in-between.

All workshops will take place on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm at 907 E Ferry Street.

The entire community is welcome to attend, eat, learn and grow. Each Saturday of the CommUniversity will feature two or three workshops that citizens can choose from.

Please see the CommUniversity Schedule for February: Feb 22, 2020 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm How to organize for action – Taught by Open Buffalo Financial Literacy – Taught by Northwest Bank A moment in Civil Rights History – Taught by Eva Doyle

METROPOLITAN CHURCH NEWS Community Breakfast at Metro All are invited to join us for our free Community “Breakfast at Metro" at Metropolitan UM Church, 657 Best Street on Saturday, February 22 from 10 am – 12 noon. Our special guest speaker will be Mr. Rochester Davis who will speak on Men's Health Issues. Angela Stewart is Pastor.

Attention Family Caregivers Do you or someone you know cares for a family member with memory impairment at home? Metro’s Circle of Love Respite Program will be held FREE OF CHARGE every 2nd Friday of each month from 10 am – 2 p.m. Contact Lynelle Reed at (716) 891-5652 or metroumchurch@gmail.com for more information or to sign up. Angela R. Stewart, Pastor.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Februar y 19,2020

FAITH & FAMILY

Renaming Delavan Grider Center Masten District Council Member Ulysees 0. Wingo Sr., filed a resolution at the request of several com­munity leaders to rename the Delavan Grider Community Center to the Byron W. Brown Community Center.

Residents of the Masten Distict reportedly initiated a grassroots movement to honor Mayor Brown for his impact in the City of Buffalo and for his numerous accomplishments by renaming the Delavan-Grider Community Center to the Byron W. Brown Community Center.

The resolution was discussed at the Full Common Council Meeting on Tuesday which in­cluded a special peformance

by Buffalo Public School graduates under the direction of Mrs. Karen Saxon.

SPORTS/NBA

continued from page 2 Pro Bowl or even Super Bowl. I don’t know about you but having Carrie Underwood open up Sunday night’s football has gone on for way too long. She’s very talented and I like her as a performer but it’s time to put country music on the sidelines for at least one of its primetime games. How about taking Hank Williams off of the opening of Monday Night football games for good especially since he’s the guy who spoke very ignorantly about former President Barack Obama.

Let’s hear it for NBA players for bringing Black Culture, pride, and money back into our communities! Their conscious level is rising . LeBron James is leading the way with a school that will award all the students in its first graduating High School class full scholarships to Kent State. Thank you so much for LeBron! This is proof that the best is yet to come from our Pro athletes to whom so much is given and now so much is expected in return!

Paul Johnson, son of the late Regent Judith Johnson, and Regent Catherine Collins (Buffalo).

Board of Regents Celebrate Emancipation Proclamation Exhibit

WORSHIP THIS WEEK WORSHIP THIS WEEK

The Board of Regents recently gathered to celebrate the opening of the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation exhibition at the New York State Museum. The exhibition is dedicated in honor of the late Regent Judith Johnson. Regent Catherine Collins, whose Judicial District includes Buffalo and the surrounding areas, emceed the event and invited guests to share their memories of Regent Johnson’s life and work as a tireless advocate for education and children. In attendance were the Board of Regents, and State Education Department staff as well as members of the State Legislature, including Senator Shelley Mayer, Assemblymember Cathy Nolan, Assemblymember J. Gary Pretlow, Assemblymember Ellen Jaffee, and Assemblymember Taylor Darling.

The Board of Regents and the State Education Department commemorate Regent Johnson’s life and her unrelenting advocacy for educational equity and excellence for all children by dedicating this exhibition in her honor.

Stretchy film plastic such as shopping bags, bubble wrap, air pillows, produce bags, plastic shipping envelopes, dry cleaner bags, grocery bags, and zip-top bags DO NOT GO IN THE GREEN TOTE! These items are recyclable but require special drop-off programs.

1933

MAYOR BYRON W. BROWN

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Entertainment

Boyz II Men Concert Review

by Matt Bauer The sold out crowd at the Seneca Niagara Events Center received a harmonious Valentines treat when 1990s R&B icons Boyz II Men performed at the venue on February 15.

Patrons were still filing in when the trio of Nathan Morris, Shawn Stockman and Wanya Morris (founding member Michael McCary left in 2003 due to multiple sclerosis) appeared following a brief snippet of 1994’s “Thank You.”

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Februar y 19,2020

Black History Month at the Broadway Market Saturday February 29, the Larry Salter Soul Orchestra will perform 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. 999 Broadway Also, Check the Broadway Market’s website for February cooking classes too! www. broadwaymarket.org

A lively “Motownphilly” inaugurated the evening; that earworm of “Boyz II Men, ABC, BBD” flowing from practically every set of lips in the multi-racial, multi generational crowd, and a perfect representation of the group’s hip-hop influenced R&B that helped push the genre into the mainstream during their heyday of the early-mid 1990s.

“On Bended Knee” followed, with the group’s pristine harmonies still intact and an affecting falsetto courtesy of Stockman on an extended vocal coda. The G.C. Cameron cover “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday” seemed especially poignant given the passing of Kobe Bryant as they performed acapella and bathed in pink light.

Then something unexpected happened: Shawn Stockman and Nathan Morris joined their four piece backing band, strapping on a bass and a guitar, as the fellows ran through a set of reggae, R&B, and classic rock covers with Wanya on lead vocals. Bob Marley’s “Jammin’”and The Gap Band’s “Yearning for Your Love” were nice, earnest selections before they turned up the heat on Lenny Kravitz’s “Are You Gonna Go My Way” and The Beatles’ “Come Together,” then winding down with Journey’s “Open Arms.”

A ball pen of back to back show stoppers rounded out the evening starting with “Water Runs Dry.” Roses were handed out during “I’ll Make Love To You,” “A Song For Mama” hit all the right chords, musically and emotionally while the crowd sang for Mariah Carey on “One Sweet Day.” Of course, they didn’t have “Mimi‘s” pipes but their emotional connection to the song rang true.

“I’m sure there’s some Boyz II Men children out there,” joked Wanya as the show came to, well, the “End of the Road.” Every bit the soothing and soulful tonic that it was during that tumultuous year of 1992, it was the expected and fitting conclusion to the evening- a timeless classic.

Jay-Z Sues Mississippi Department of Corrections

It has been confirmed that hip-hop mogul and prison reform activist Jay-Z has sued the head of the Mississippi Department of Corrections and the warden of the state penitentiary.The suit was filed on behalf of over two dozen prisoners who allege the two officials were willfully negligent in stopping the brutality that resulted in the deaths of five inmates over the past two weeks.

on stage Open Mic and Creative Expression

Tuesdays 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. until March 31 "Can you hear me. now?"

Open Mic for all acts. A Free Coffee House for Youth.

Open Mic Sessions and expressive art and community building workshops plus delicious food. ages 12-21 at Gloria Parks Community Center contact Mike Tritto 716 823-5085 Toney Rhodes Featuring Tru Journey, Friday, Feb. 21 @ 7 P.M., Je Ne Sais Quoi Restaurant, 1633 Hertel Avenue. For Tickets 716) 440-1065.

DON'T MISS COOKIN' !

"Cookin' At TheStarring Zoe Scruggs and Ember Tate Musicians: Piano George Caldwell; Bass Sabu Adeyola; Drums Rodney Harper; Guitar Mike Moser

Rishon Odel CD Listening Party February 29 6:30p.m. listening party for his new project "the L word" at Black Rock ESP 71 Military Road.

Wine and hordeuves will be served. Must RSVP by February 22. Tickets on eventbrite. For more info call 553-0642.

TO ADVERTISE: advertising@ thechallengernews.com

Blanc Photographie

The Community’s Portrait & Event Photographer.

716.319.8979 • Facebook: Blanc Photographie • Instagram: @blanc_photographie

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Februar y 19,2020

Sheila L. Brown "29 Years of Preparation" Present Black Herstory Month Lunch and Learn Featuring Sasha The Diva The Legendary WUFO Mix 1080AM and Power 96.5FM will be hosting their inaugural “Black Herstory Month: Lunch and Learn,” taking place at Millennium Buffalo Hotel & Resort, 2040 Walden Ave. on Saturday February 29 starting at 10 a.m.

Black Herstory Month Lunch Sasha The Diva & Learn is an event where all "HERSTORY": (Left ) And Sheila L. Brown. entrepreneurs, and dreamers come together to learn from industry leaders and professionals on how to turn your passion into an empire.

Featured speakers include nationally syndicated radio personality, serial entrepreneur, actress and philanthropist Sasha The Diva, and Buffalo’s own Sheila L. Brown.

“This is not a conference, this is not a motivational speaking, and this is not a “boss up” seminar; this is a convocation where eagles fly high," said Mrs. Brown, CEO of Vision Multi Media Group.

Happening a Albright Knox Northland February 23, 2:30pm Gallery Talk: Annette Daniels Taylor on Rodney Taylor Join artist, writer, poet, and performer Annette Daniels Taylor and Deputy Director Joe Lin-Hill for a conversation about Buffalo artist Rodney Taylor, including his work in Open House: Domestic Thresholds by Heather Hart, Edra Soto, and Rodney Taylor.

DON'T MISS COOKIN' !

"Cookin' At The Cookery” The production stars the phenomenally talented Zoe Scruggs along with Ember Tate. Musicians: Piano George Caldwell; Bass Sabu Adeyola; Drums Rodney Harper; Guitar Mike Moser has received rave reviews!

It is the story of song stylist Alberta Hunter who had an amazing career as a Blues Diva in the 20s; three decades as a cabaret artist; a 20 year stint as a nurse, and performed until she was 89! Cookin' At The Cookery, runs now thru March 8 at MusicFare Theatre, located at Daemen College 4380 Main St, Amherst. For more information call 839-8540 or go to www.musicfare.com

February 29 1- 3pm Ekphrastic Writing with Just Buffalo Literary Center with author Gabriel Bump who's debut release Everywhere You Don't Belong is climing the charts . During this creative writing workshop for all ages, participants will create family and community histories inspired by the works on view in Open House: Domestic Thresholds by Heather Hart, Edra Soto, and Rodney Taylor, which features abstract renderings of home. Through prose or verse, we will fill in blank spaces.

More updates go to www.albrightknox.org

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. Xi Epsilon Omega Chapter Founders Day Celebration!

SUPPORT THE ARTS!

The Xi Epsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. will hold their Founders Day Celebration & Awards Luncheon “ Exemplifying Excellence: Honoring Our Community” on Sunday February 23, 2 p.m., at Millennium Buffalo Hotel, 2040 Walden with Keynote Speaker Lorna C. Hill and musical guest Drea D’Nur. Donation is $50. For tickets contact chairs Alexa J. Givens-Wajed at alexajoan@gmail.com or Yolanda Wood at wood. yo@hotmail.com

People Inc. Jefferson Avenue Apartments Mural Project Call for Art ARTIST MURAL AREA

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In collaboration with the WNY Urban Arts Collective, People Inc. is requesting local visual artists to submit proposals for murals to be installed on our newly-constructed Jefferson Avenue Apartments. Artists are encouraged to be creative and to use any resources available. Images should be captivating, engaging and reflective of the theme: Historic Jefferson Avenue. Proposals are due by Sunday, April 12. See details and guidelines at people-inc.org/jeffersonaveapts. For questions and proposal submissions, contact John Baker, president, WNY Urban Arts Collective, at jonbak112@yahoo.com or 716.994.3584.

10

GENERATIONS

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Februar y 19,2020

Apply Now for the Mayor's Summer Youth Internship Program!

ltural March Metro turns rson. m 2-4 verty man’s e $20

ant at esenerrill

AFRICAN AMERICAN READ-IN! A successful African Amer-

ican Read-In took place last Sunday at the Merriweather Library. The Read In is designed to promote literacy and the literature of African American Authors. It was hosted

by Kenneth & Sharon Holley in cooperation with Zawadi Books; Tradition Keepers: Black Storytellers of WNY; and the Frank E. Merriweather, Jr. Branch Library.

Links To Host Black History Event

The Erie County Chapter of Links, Inc. will present “Deceased African American Panels” on Friday Feb. 21 as part of their Black History Series at the Downtown Library beginning at noon where they will partner with Clifford Bell’s program there. Janet Barnes is the Links Chapter president.

- Black History Events Fri. February 21 12 noon Presentation: African American Cultural Center Central Library, 1 Lafayette Square Sat. February 22 1 pm Awards Program for Carter G. Woodson Essay Contest Sponsor: Afro-American Historical Assoc. Frank E. Merriweather, Jr. Library, 1324 Jefferson Avenue Fri. February 28 12 noon Presentation: WUFO Radio Archives/ Power 96.5 FM Central Library.

Mayor Byron W. Brown, joined by Community Services Commissioner Otis T. Barker, employers, representatives from Community Organizations, Higher Education, the Police Athletic League of Buffalo and dozens of young people, recently kicked off his 2020 Summer Youth Internship Program, encouraging City students to apply on-line as soon as possible.

The program provides six weeks of employment and workreadiness training to youth in the City of Buffalo during the summer months. Students will work 20 hours per week over the course of the 6-week program, which begins July 6th and ends August 13th. Applying is easy. Students can submit applications online at www.buffalony.gov. Completed applications are due by Friday, March 31, 2020.

City youth can apply online or download an application to the program by going to www.buffalony.gov and return the completed application to the Department of Community Services. Applications are also available in Room 1701 at Buffalo City Hall. Incomplete applications and late applications will not be accepted. Completed applications can be emailed, mailed or brought to the Department of Community Services, located at Buffalo City Hall, 65 Niagara Square-Room 1701, Buffalo, New York, 14202. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm.

To be eligible youth must be a City of Buffalo resident, between the ages of 14 and 21, and must turn age 14 by March 31, 2020. Each participant will be screened, assessed and receive job readiness, life skills and financial literacy training.

The City of Buffalo’s Division for Youth will provide youth counselors who will serve as monitors and provide program support for everyone participating in the program. College Students are encouraged to apply.

Nearly 24,000 city youth have been employed through this program since 2006 Employers looking to support Mayor Brown’s youth employment program should email fcarter@citybuffalo. com. Those businesses that hire city youth may be eligible for tax credits. Not-for-profit and Community based organizations can also participate by providing a structured and supervised work environment for the summer and, through sponsorship and donations, the City of Buffalo will subsidize the wages of youth employed in these areas.

If you have any questions regarding Mayor Brown’s Summer Youth Internship Program application process, please contact us at (716) 851-5887.

BLACK HISTORY/MALCOLM X continued from page 3

1965, the Nation of Islam’s membership grew from around 1,000 to 20,000 (though estimates vary).

By 1963, Malcolm X had become the second-most sought after speaker in the United States and was interviewed by Mike Wallace of CBS News. His Unity Rally in that same year was one of the biggest civil rights gatherings at the time. His friendship with Muhammad Ali is one of the more storied relationships of the ’60s, and they set the world on fire with their beliefs and willingness to speak out.

Malcolm X took a more diplomatic stance with regard to race relations after leaving the Nation of Islam in 1964.

However, his break from the Nation of Islam would be short-lived, as he was assassinated in New York City while giving a speech at the Audubon Ballroom on February 21, 1965. He was 39.

The biggest achievement that he gave to American people of color was the courage to express themselves. He contributed to valorization of Black identity, giving a voice to the problems of the Black and the frustration they felt due to racism. He defined clearly the price America would pay if Blacks were deprived of their legitimate and basic human rights. During the Civil Rights movement from 1955 to 1968, his teachings were part of the foundation on which Blacks built their movements as well as a source of inspiration for Black art.

CTI Announces Next Class of “Weld to Work Program” he next class of the Weld to Work Program at Craft Technical Institute, Inc will begin on February 26, 2020. Located at 243 Manhattan Street in Buffalo, NY, Craft Technical Institute (CTI), is now accepting applications for this next training program, the certified intensive 600 hour, six month welding to work program.

Craft Technical Institute just graduated its first class and is exceptionally proud of the fact that all our graduates are now employed at several Western NY companies. In addition, CTI graduates have passed the American Welding Society (AWS) national certification test. This is a huge accomplishment. We are so excited about living up to our mantra of "Training a strong workforce for building our future" because according to the U.S. Department of Labor Statistics, the need for skilled welders will increase 26% by the year 2020. With all the construction going on and scheduled for Western New York, there are and will be many employment opportunities.

The welding program at Craft Technical Institute (CTI) is available with morning (8:30am-1:45pm), afternoon (1:00pm-6:15pm)and/or evening classes (5:00pm10:15pm).

Call 716-464-3642 to make an appointment if you would like to tour the facilities and or talk with our enrolling agent, Ms. Rose Mary Ginwright.

Black History and Mass Incarceration

B

lack History is American History.

There is no aspect of America’s history that you can consider and leave Black people out. When taking a look at mass incarceration in the USA, you might wonder about statistics which imply that Black people must be born with a gene that makes them natural born criminals. Of course, that’s ridiculous. Nothing could be further from the truth. So many Black bodies in the jails and prisons of this nation should tell you that there are problems with this country’s criminal justice system.

While February is designated for the observance of Black history, many Black icons and achievements are honored.

Let us not forget the Black icons that have been assassinated and lynched and unjustly imprisoned. While something will be said, this month, about Black contributions to this nation and the world, something must also be said about a criminal justice system, defined by racial bias, that causes Black people to be denied opportunities for “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” Some commonly recognized statistics are that this nation incarcerates more of its citizens than any other country in the world. America has only 4.25 % of the world’s population and about a quarter of the world’s prison population. A growing body of research shows that people of color are more likely to be stopped, frisked, questioned, charged, and detained. African Americans are more likely to be arrested and they are more likely to be sentenced to more time than whites for the same crime. This is a part of our history too.

When the movie “13th” was released in 2016, many were surprised to learn that slavery was abolished in 1865 but a person could be re-enslaved with the commission of a crime. The 13th Amendment said: “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for a crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.”

Of course, when you stepped foot off the plantation you had essentially committed a crime... the crime of vagrancy, without a residence, a job, or i.d.

Following the so-called abolition of slavery, the convict leasing system was established. Convict leasing was a system of penal labor practiced in the Southern United States and overwhelmingly targeting African American men. Convict leasing provided prisoner labor to private parties, such as plantation owners and corporations.

According to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU): “One out of every three Black boys born today can expect to go to prison in his lifetime, as can one of every six Latino boys—compared to one of every 17 white boys. At the same time, women are the fastest growing incarcerated population in the United States.”

Black Codes, Jim Crow, and the enduring myth of Black Criminality, which has been with us for decades, all contribute to the imprisoned Black population. All are a part of Black History. While we celebrate the good, we must also recognize the not so good and continue to fight for prisoner justice reform. The next monthly meeting of PRISONERS ARE PEOPLE TOO, will take place on Monday, February 24, 7:00-9:00 p.m. at the Rafi Green Center, 1423 Fillmore Avenue @ Glenwood. For more information: Karima, 716834-8438, karimatells@yahoo.com; BaBa, 716-491-5319, g.babaend@yahoo.com.

VOICES

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Februar y 19,2020

M

y name is Sly Green.

Many of you were too young to know me on a personal basis, but I might and/or may know some of your fathers, aunts, and/or uncles. I may have traveled with them from time to time in the streets of Buffalo as I once did with my friend Joop, the gentlemen who is responsible for delivering this letter . When we were young, in our teenage years we hung out together. We were as we are nowfriends. As a matter of fact, he knows my entire family. So because I trust him as a long time friend to be very honest with you, the young street soldiers, I wrote to him and asked if he would deliver you all this powerful message from me.

Young brothers, I was arrested over 25 years ago for murders, RICO, RICO activity, kidnapping, extortion, conspiracy, and continuing criminal enterprise. There were 32 other co-defendants included in the indictment. I, Sly Green, was labeled The Godfather, The Crime Boss, the leader of it all.

My picture,· my name, my background, everything that was known about me was placed in the newspapers constantly for approximately four or more years. I faced death on the Federal RICO and Continuing Criminal Enterprise Indictment, also, known as the Super Kingpin Act, for controlling a criminal enterprise organization. As I and some of the other co-defendants proceeded to trial, the death penalty on the Federal Indictment was dropped, but the other charges were sent to a jury of twelve citizens. The trial lasted approximately several months, with a saturated media press, that I could not avoid. Myself and my other co-defendants were found guilty. I was sentenced to four life terms, plus 110 years in a Federal United States Penitentiary, Lewisberg, Leavenworth, Kansas, Colorado High Security, in Florence Colorado, and now the United States Penitentiary in Atlanta Georgia.

Young brothers every day, since July 29, 1994, the day the FEDS sentenced me, I've been looking for leaks, errors, constitutional violations, and ineffective assistance of counsel claims. If I don't win my appeals in the court then I live the rest of my entire life in these United States penitentiaries.

Young soldiers, the world you live in is a FREE WORLD; a world of chance and opportunity to be anything positive and constructive in life that you want to be.

Please young brothers, don't waste your lives away killing and murdering each other. Don't waste your lives in gangs or in gang activity that you know in your heart and souls is worthless, and will only eventually place you in County Jails, State Prisons, and/or Federal Prisons for years of your lives unnecessarily. I beg of you, never

“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

ever play yourself to the Penitentiary, County Jail, or State Prison system for street nonesence, such as Neighberhoods, Terriorities, Blocks and/or for Drugs. It's not at all worth it!

You'll spend extremely too much time in prison for things like that, especially for drugs, assaults, and murders. In prison you have no freedom, you have no rights to do what you want to do, you can't eat the best foods or the foods you want to eat.You can't stay as healthy as you normally are now, because the medical staff is of very poor quality in these prisons, so your chances of surviving is bad. You can't watch a movie or television when you want. You can't wear your own clothes. Your girlfriend usually leaves you within a short period of time after you're in prison.You have to always depend on someone in the free world to take care of things for you, because you can no longer do them yourself.

You can't call home when ever you want. If something is wrong at home you can't be there. Young brothers, I live in a WORLD, where inmates are always fighting, stabbing, and killing each other. I live in a WORLD where inmates hate each other, where they are constantly negatively challenging each other. I live in a WORLD where you're isolated from society with gun towers and prison guards constantly watching everything you say and do, where you have no privacy at all. Young soldiers, I beg of you not to come this way.

I'd rather see you going to SCHOOL, trying to GRADUATE, and acquire a HIGH SCHOOL EDUCATION and then on to COLLEGE and a CAREER. Young brothers I live in a WORLD with nothing but murderers, rapists, con-men, burglars, robbers, crime bosses, gang leaders, baby killers, and many other guys that society has to be protected from.

YOUNG BROTHERS I'M HERE AND I'M TELLING YOU IT'S THE WRONG PATH TO FOLLOW. IT'S NOT THE WAY. THE SLY GREEN WAY WAS NEVER THE CORRECT WAY. It never has been, it never will be, and if you respect me, if you've ever heard of me, and if I should ever see or speak to you, I would tell you to go to SCHOOL, finish your EDUCATION, try COLLEGE, strive to better yourselves in life and be a positive and productive member of society. That's what Sly Green would tell you. Young brothers if you're going to soldier, soldier for a POSITIVE LIFE STYLE Soldier for a JOB, for an EDUCATION, for a FUTURE, so that your younger brothers, nephews, and sons don't end up like the notorious, infamous, Sly Green...

Young brothers, if you truly believe in me and the message I am delivering to you, then STOP THE GANG WARS, STOP THE KILLING OF EACH OTHER, STOP THE DRUGS FROM COMING INTO YOUR NEIGHBORHOODS, AND PLEASE YOUNG BROTHERS, STOP HURTING EACH OTHER. As I fight my legal battles from time to time in the court, I often think of you when I read about you in the Newspapers and I say to myself, if only I could be there with you all, I would tell you what you're up against when you join gangs, when you hurt and kill each other so unnecessarily as you are doing. I would talk to you and bring you all together and AS ONE WE WOULD ALL STOP THE VIOLENCE AGAINST EACH OTHER, because that's all we are doing is hurting and killing each other.

But being that I'm not there with you all, I've asked my good friend Joop, to talk to you and from time to time, deliver my messages to you young soldiers and I've promised my good friend Joop, I won't ever stop delivering my message to you until I succeed in winning your young hearts and minds to live a positive· and productive way of life, free from drugs, free from gangs, free from all things negative that includes stabbing and murdering each other. Young Sodiers you have too much of a future ahead of you to be out

Challenger Community News P.O. BOX 474 Buffalo, NY 14209 advertising@thechallengernews.com

P: 716 881.1051 F: 716 881.1053

11

The Fight to Save The Rodney Taylor House Continues Dear Editor: Rodney Taylor, 1966-2019, departed this earth way too early. Home was an important concept to him and influenced his art. Currently, the Albright Knox-Northland is exhibiting some of his works.

What does 184 West Utica have to do with Mr. Taylor?

From the Campaign for Greater Buffalo newsletter: "The house designed and built by Fruit Belt residents (the late 1890s early 1900 Germans) venturing out into the wider world came full circle in 2004, when another son of the Fruit Belt, artist Rodney Taylor, and his wife Annette DanielsTaylor, bought the house. Taylor had been out in the world and was coming home. Taylor’s parents lived two doors away at 176 West Utica, the same house they had bought when Urban Renewal and expressway building caused them to leave the Fruit Belt in 1974. His mother was a member of the church across the street. Taylor died in December 2019, but not before he knew his work would be central to the first show installed at the Albright Knox-Northland art gallery, Open House: Domestic Thresholds. The show opened on January 17, 2020, the same day the demolition request for 184 West Utica Street was made public."

So happy Black History Month folks! Buffalo plans to demolish the home of an internationally known and respected Black artist. For more information, please see: https://greaterbuffalo.blogs.com/ A rally to stop the demolition is planned for Sat Feb 22, 9 AM at the house.

-Tim Tielman Tim Tielman is Executive Director, Campaign for Greater Buffalo.

News Briefs

Close to 66,000 Marijuana Convictions to Be Dismissed in Los Angeles County According to CNN, approximately 66,000 marijuana convictions will be dismissed in Los Angeles County as a result of the recent legalization laws. According to the county District Attorney, Jackie Lacey, that number breaks down to 62,000 felony convictions that relate to the growing and selling of marijuana and around 4,000 misdemeanor possession cases. Of those convictions 45 percent are Latino and 32 percent are Black. This is in addition to the 85,000 cases already dismissed so far.

there hurting and destroying each other.

STOP THE VIOLENCE. HELP YOUR MOTHERS, YOUR GRANDMOTHERS, AUNTS, UNCLES AND SISTERS TO STAY SAFE FROM VIOLENCE BECAUSE WITHOUT THEM WE WOULD NOT BE HERE AND WITHOUT THEIR LOVE FOR US, WE COULD NOT EXIST IN A CITY SO VIOLENT AS OUR OWN! ! ! ! ! ! !

Sly Green is the author of “Diary of A Jailhouse Lawyer” (by Tracy Green) which is available on amazon.com He is currently completing a second book. The letter published here was written to Arlee “Joop” Daniel to share with the young men in the City of Buffalo. He and Arlee have been friends since childhood and during Arlee’s short life in the “streets.”

They have remained close friends. Says Arlee: “He was very proud of me when I changed my life and made it out….and honored and proud that I stood by him all these years.”

• Published every Wednesday • News Deadline: Friday 5 p.m.

• Ad Deadline: Friday 5 p.m.

• Classified Deadline: Thursday 5 p.m.

We respectfully submit that the opinions expressed on the editorial pages of this newspaper are not necessairly those of Challenger Community News Corporation or its advertisers.

Advertising /News/ Information/Inquiries adver tising@thechallengernews.com

Phone: 716-881-1051 Fax: 716-881-1053

12

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Februar y 19,2020

LEGAL NOTICES

LLC's

-LEGAL NOTICESOLOMON'S FAMILY FUN CENTER, LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on DECEMBER 23, 2019. Office in Erie County.

SSNY is the designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 50 Viola Dr. Cheektowaga, New York, 14227. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Jan.22,29 Feb. 5,12,19,26 NOTICE OF FORMATION Criminal Justice Professionals Training and Consulting, LLC filed Articles of Organization with the New York Secretary of State (SSNY) on January 15, 2020. Its office is located in Erie County. The SSNY is the designated agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail a copy of process to 1967 Wehrle Dr., Ste. 9, Williamsville, NY 14221. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Jan.22,29 Feb. 5,12,19,26 -LEGAL NOTICENOTICE of FORMATION of a DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Name of LLC: Big Nickel Industries, LLC Date of filing of Articles of Organization with NY Dept of State: January 15, 2020. Office of the LLC: Big Nickel Industries LLC, 1006 Grant Street, Buffalo, New York, 14207, Erie County. The NY Secretary of State has been designated as the agent upon whom process may be served. NYSS may mail a copy of process to the LLC at 1006 Grant Street, Buffalo, New York 14207. Purpose of LLC: Any lawful purpose. No specific duration attached to LLC. Jan.22,29 Feb. 5,12,19,26 -Legal NoticeASI Design Legacy LLC. Filed with SSNY on 02/03/2020. Office: Erie County. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail copy to: 436 Berkshire Ave, Buffalo, NY 14215.

Purpose: Any lawful.

Feb. 12,19,26 Mar. 4,11,18

NAME CHANGE

LEGAL NOTICE BID

LEGAL NOTICE BID ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Sealed bids for Project Nos. 46126-C and 46126-E, comprising separate contracts for Construction Work and Electrical Work, DOT Region 4, Genesee County, Route 19 and 20, Pavilion (Genesee County), NY, will be received by the Office of General Services (OGS), Design & Construction Group (D&C), Division of Contract Management, 35th Fl., Corning Tower, Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12242, on behalf of the Department of Transportation, until 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 4, 2020, when they will be publicly opened and read. Each bid must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders and must be accompanied by a bid security (i.e. certified check, bank check, or bid bond in the amount of $24,300 for C and $3,000 for E.).

All successful bidders will be required to furnish a Performance Bond and a Labor and Material Bond pursuant to Sections 136 and 137 of the State Finance Law, each for 100% of the amount of the Contract estimated to be between $250,000 and $500,000 for C, and between $25,000 and $50,000 for E. Designated staff are John Pupons, Jessica Hoffman and Pierre Alric in the Division of Contract Management, telephone (518) 474-0203, fax (518) 473-7862 and John Lewyckyj, Deputy Director, Design & Construction Group, telephone (518) 474-0201, fax (518) 486-1650.

Pursuant to Public Buildings Law § 8(6), effective January 11, 2020, for any projects where the project design commenced on or after January 1, 2020 and for any contracts over $5,000 for the work of construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, or improvement of any State building, a responsible and reliable NYS-certified Minority or Women-Owned Business Enterprise that submits a bid within ten percent of the lowest bid will be deemed the apparent low bidder provided that the bid is $1,400,000 or less, as adjusted annually for inflation beginning January 1, 2020. If more than one responsible and reliable MWBE firm meets these requirements, the MWBE firm with the lowest bid will be deemed the apparent low bidder.

XX Project commenced design before January 1, 2020. Not subject to provision. ___ Project commenced design on or after January 1, 2020. Subject to provision.

The State intends to expedite award of this Contract and the Contractor shall be prepared to proceed with the Work accordingly. Bidders are warned that time is of the essence of the Contract and substantial completion of the Work must occur by August 27, 2020. Due to the tightness of the construction schedule, bidders should consider the necessity for an increased work force and shift operations.

The only time prospective bidders will be allowed to visit the job site to take field measurements and examine existing conditions of the project area will be at 10:00 a.m. on February 25, 2020 at DOT Region 4, Route 19 & 20, Pavilion, NY. Phone the office of Lori Pautler, (585-591-0356) a minimum of 48 hours in advance of the date to provide the names of those who will attend the pre-bid site visit.

Pursuant to New York State Executive Law Article 15-A and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, OGS is required to promote opportunities for the maximum feasible participation of New York State-certified Minority- and Women-owned Business Enterprises (“MWBEs”) and the employment of minority group members and women in the performance of OGS contracts. All bidders are expected to cooperate in implementing this policy. OGS hereby establishes an overall goal of 10% for MWBE participation, 5% for MinorityOwned Business Enterprises (“MBE”) participation and 5% for Women-Owned Business Enterprises (“WBE”) participation (based on the current availability of qualified MBEs and WBEs) for Construction Work. The total contract goal can be obtained by utilizing any combination of MBE and /or WBE participation for subcontracting and supplies acquired under this Contract.

The Bidding and Contract Documents for this Project are available on compact disc (CD) only, and may be obtained for an $8.00 deposit per set, plus a $2.00 per set shipping and handling fee. Pursuant to State Finance Law § 143(1), effective January 11, 2020, the required deposit will be waived upon request by any Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprise certified pursuant to Article 15-A of the Executive Law or any Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Enterprise certified pursuant to Article 17-B of the Executive Law. Contractors and other interested parties can order CD’s on-line through a secure web interface available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Please use the following link at the OGS website for ordering and payment instructions: https://online.ogs.ny.gov/dnc/contractorConsultant/esb/ESBPlansAvailableIndex.asp.

For questions about purchase of bid documents, please send an e-mail to DCPlans@ogs.ny.gov, or call (518) 474-0203.

For additional information on this project, please use the link below and then click on the project number: https://online.ogs.ny.gov/dnc/contractorConsultant/esb/ESBPlansAvailableIndex.asp.

John D. Lewyckyj, C.S.I., C.D.T. Deputy Director, OGS Design & Construction Group

LEGAL NOTICE BID

TO ADVERTISE: advertising@thechallengernews.com 716.881.1051

NFTA Procurement Invitation to Bid 4946 -WEBB BRAKE DRUMS 4941-POLICE DEPARTMENT POLICY REVIEW 4942 - MEDICAL TESTING SERVICES Download Bids from www. nfta.com

Bids will be received by RP Oak Hill Building Co., Inc. for the CBLS/COE Innovation Hub Incubator Project on February 26th at 2:00pm. Please fax bids (716-822-4367) or email (mkiener@rpoakhill.com) prior to 2:00 pm.

The scope of work includes demolition, millwork, flooring, painting, carpentry, doors, glass and glazing, miscellaneous specialties, counter top work, etc. The contract documents may be examined at Construction Exchange or can be purchased at Avalon Printing, (P: 716-995-7777).

This project is PREVAILING WAGE. ***W/M/DBE & SDVOB participation is encouraged.

LEGAL NOTICE RFP Buffalo and Erie County Industrial Land Development Corporation RFP for Site Purchase and Development of a Manufacturing/ Warehouse Facility at the former Bethlehem Steel site LEGAL NOTICE The Buffalo and Erie County Industrial Land Development Corporation (ILDC) is seeking proposals for the purchase of a 10.27-acre parcel of real property and the development thereon of a 120,000 sq. ft. flexible light manufacturing/warehouse facility to be located in Lackawanna, New York adjacent to the new Dona Street within the Bethlehem Steel Redevelopment Area. A detailed RFP is available to guide interested parties.

Proposal packages are available at the ILDC office, 95 Perry St., Ste. 403, Buffalo , NY 14203 or by visiting the ECIDA website, www.ecidany. com. Proposals are due March 13, 2020.

Questions: jcappell@ecidany.com

LEGAL NOTICE RFP COUNTY OF ERIE

95 FRANKLIN STREET DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES BUFFALO, NEW YORK County of Erie, New York RFP RELEASE The Erie County Department of Social Services is seeking proposals from qualified agencies to provide Administrative Accounting/Audit Services. The RFP #2020-006VF can be found at http://www.erie.gov and a complete copy of the package can also be obtained by contacting Carrie Godfrey, ECDSS, at 716-858-6086, or via Carrie.Godfrey@erie.gov.

All correspondence, communications and/or contact with the County in regard to any aspect of this proposal shall be with the ECDSS contact person listed on the specific RFP. Prospective proponents, or their representatives, shall not make contact with or communicate with any representatives of the County, including employees and consultants, other than the designated person in regard to any aspect of this proposal.

Final sealed proposals are due to the Erie County Department of Social Services, 95 Franklin Street, Room 804, Buffalo, New York 14202, by 4:00 p.m. (EST) on February 28, 2020.

Erie County reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and waive any informality.

Marie A. Cannon, Commissioner of Social Services

LEGAL NOTICE Bank of America

N.A. v. Nawaz

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK – COUNTY OF ERIE INDEX # 816068/2018 FILED: 1/16/2020 SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS AND NOTICE Plaintiff designates ERIE County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises are situated. BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., Plaintiff, against TARIQ NAWAZ A/K/A TARIZ NAWAZ, if they be living and if they be dead, the respective heirs-at-law, next-of-kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said defendant(s) who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or inheritance, any right, title or interest in or to the real property described in the Complaint, RANSOM OAKS COMMUNITY CORPORATION, CHARLESGATE VILLAGE ASSOCIATION, TOYOTA MOTOR CREDIT CORPORATION, BAYVIEW LOAN SERVICING LLC, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE, and "JOHN DOE" and "JANE DOE", the last two names being fictitious, said parties intended being tenants or occupants, if any, having or claiming an interest in, or lien upon the premises described in the complaint, Defendant(s). TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the plaintiff's attorney(s) within 20 days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. IF YOU DO NOT RESPOND TO THIS SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE MORTGAGE COMPANY WHO FILED THIS FORECLOSURE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT, A DEFAULT JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED AND YOU CAN LOSE YOUR HOME. SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY OR GO TO THE COURT WHERE YOUR CASE IS PENDING FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON HOW TO ANSWER THE SUMMONS AND PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY. SENDING A PAYMENT TO YOUR MORTGAGE COMPANY WILL NOT STOP THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. The foregoing Summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Joseph R. Glownia, a Justice of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, Erie County, granted on the 10th day of January, 2020, and filed with the Complaint and other papers in the office of the County Clerk of Erie County. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage upon the premises described below, executed by TARIQ NAWAZ A/K/A TARIZ NAWAZ to MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC. AS NOMINEE FOR COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS, INC, its successors and assigns, bearing date June 2, 2006 and recorded in Book 13293, Page 6489 in the County of Erie on June 2, 2006, which was modified by agreement dated October 13, 2009 and was recorded on October 30, 2015 in Liber 13743, Page 6831, and was thereafter assigned to BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO BAC HOME LOANS SERVICING, LP by instrument dated August 13, 2015 and recorded on September 23, 2015, in Book 13738, Page 6660, said premises being known as 1304 CHARLESGATE CIRCLE, EAST AMHERST, NY 14051 (Section 28.33, Block 1, Lot 121). ALL that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Amherst, County of Erie and State of New York. YOU ARE HEREBY PUT ON NOTICE THAT WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. There is due and owing to plaintiff the sum of $75,294.68, with interest thereon at 4.875% per annum from 3/1/2018. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt described above. UNLESS YOU DISPUTE THE VALIDITY OF THE DEBT, OR ANY PORTION THEREOF, WITHIN THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER YOUR RECEIPT HEREOF THAT THE DEBT, OR ANY PORTION THEREOF, IS DISPUTED, THE DEBTOR JUDGMENT AGAINST YOU AND A COPY OF SUCH VERIFICATION OR JUDGMENT WILL BE MAILED TO YOU BY THE HEREIN DEBT COLLECTOR. IF APPLICABLE, UPON YOUR WRITTEN REQUEST, WITHIN SAID THIRTY (30) DAY PERIOD, THE HEREIN DEBT COLLECTOR WILL PROVIDE YOU WITH THE NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE ORIGINAL CREDITOR. IF YOU HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE FROM THE UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT, YOU ARE NOT PERSONALLY LIABLE FOR THE UNDERLYING INDEBTEDNESS OWED TO PLAINTIFF/CREDITOR AND THIS NOTICE/DISCLOSURE IS FOR COMPLIANCE AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS IN FORECLOSURE New York State Law requires that we send you this notice about the foreclosure process. Please read it carefully. SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT You are in danger of losing your home. If you fail to respond to the summons and complaint in this foreclosure action, you may lose your home. Please read the summons and complaint carefully. You should immediately contact an attorney or your local legal aid office to obtain advice on how to protect yourself. SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE The State encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure.

In addition to seeking assistance from an attorney or legal aid office, there are government agencies and non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about possible options, including trying to work with your lender during this process. To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York State Department of Financial Services at 1-800-269-0990 or visit the Department’s website at HTTP://WWW.DFS. NY.GOV. Rights and Obligations YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO LEAVE YOUR HOME AT THIS TIME. You have the right to stay in your home during the foreclosure process. You are not required to leave your home unless and until your property is sold at auction pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale. Regardless of whether you choose to remain in your home, YOU ARE REQUIRED TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR PROPERTY and pay property taxes in accordance with state and local law. FORECLOSURE RESCUE SCAMS Be careful of people who approach you with offers to “save” your home. There are individuals who watch for notices of foreclosure actions in order to unfairly profit from a homeowner's distress. You should be extremely careful about any such promises and any suggestions that you pay them a fee or sign over your deed. State law requires anyone offering such services for profit to enter into a contract which fully describes the services they will perform and fees they will charge, and which prohibits them from taking any money from you until they have completed all such promised services. Aldridge Pite, LLP. Attorneys for the Plaintiff, Fifteen Piedmont Center, 3575 Piedmont Road, N.E., Suite 500, Atlanta, GA 30305. Our File 1092-10289B

13

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Februar y 19,2020

EMPLOYMENT

LEGAL NOTICE

FINDJOBS on thechallengernews.com LEGAL NOTICE BID

LEGAL NOTICE BID ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Sealed bids for Project Nos. 46076-C and 46076-E, comprising separate contracts for Construction Work, and Electrical Work, Provide Salt Storage Building, DOT Region 5, Niagara County, Witmer Road, Lewiston (Niagara County), NY, will be received by the Office of General Services (OGS), Design & Construction Group (D&C), Division of Contract Management, 35th Fl., Corning Tower, Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12242, on behalf of the Department of Transportation, until 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 4, 2020 when they will be publicly opened and read. Each bid must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders and must be accompanied by a certified check, bank check, or bid bond in the amount of $23,000 for C and $5,000 for E. All successful bidders will be required to furnish a Performance Bond and a Labor and Material Bond in the statutory form of public bonds required by Sections 136 and 137 of the State Finance Law, each for 100% of the amount of the Contract estimated to be between $500,000 and $1,000,000 for C and between $50,000 and $100,000 for E. Designated staff are John Pupons, Jessica Hoffman and Pierre Alric in the Division of Contract Management, telephone (518) 474-0203, fax (518) 473-7862 and John Lewyckyj, Deputy Director, Design & Construction Group, telephone (518) 474-0201, fax (518) 486-1650.

Pursuant to Public Buildings Law § 8(6), effective January 11, 2020, for any projects where the project design commenced on or after January 1, 2020 and for any contracts over $5,000 for the work of construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, or improvement of any State building, a responsible and reliable NYS-certified Minority or Women-Owned Business Enterprise that submits a bid within ten percent of the lowest bid will be deemed the apparent low bidder provided that the bid is $1,400,000 or less, as adjusted annually for inflation beginning January 1, 2020. If more than one responsible and reliable MWBE firm meets these requirements, the MWBE firm with the lowest bid will be deemed the apparent low bidder. _XX__Project commenced design before January 1, 2020. Not subject to provision. ______Project commenced design on or after January 1, 2020. Subject to provision.

The State intends to expedite award of this Contract and the Contractor shall be prepared to proceed with the Work accordingly. Bidders are warned that time is of the essence of the Contract and substantial completion of the Work must occur by August 25, 2020. Due to the tightness of the construction schedule, bidders should consider the necessity for an increased work force and shift operations.

The only time prospective bidders will be allowed to visit the job site to take field measurements and examine existing conditions of the project area will be at 10:00 a.m. on February 19, 2020 at 15 Monteagle Drive, Lewiston, NY. Phone the office of Lauren Clausen, (716-885-0908) a minimum of 48 hours in advance of the date to provide the names of those who will attend the pre-bid site visit.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Sealed bids for Project Nos. 46129-C, 46129-E, 46129-H and 46129-P, comprising separate contracts for Construction Work, Electrical Work, HVAC Work, and Plumbing Work to Provide Classrooms & Office Space, Building 130, Restricted Housing Program, Collins Correctional Facility, Middle Road, Collins (Erie County), NY, will be received by the Office of General Services (OGS), Design & Construction Group (D&C), Division of Contract Management, 35th Fl., Corning Tower, Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12242, on behalf of the Department of Correctional Services, until 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 4, 2020 when they will be publicly opened and read. Each bid must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders and must be accompanied by a certified check, bank check, or bid bond in the amount of $89,400 for C, $24,200 for E, $29,000 for H, and $23,400 for P. All successful bidders will be required to furnish a Performance Bond and a Labor and Material Bond in the statutory form of public bonds required by Sections 136 and 137 of the State Finance Law, each for 100% of the amount of the Contract estimated to be between $2,000,000 and $3,000,000 for C, between $500,000 and $1,000,000 for E, between $500,000 and $1,000,000 for H, and between $500,000 and $1,000,000 for P. Designated staff are John Pupons, Jessica Hoffman and Pierre Alric in the Division of Contract Management, telephone (518) 474-0203, fax (518) 4737862 and John Lewyckyj, Deputy Director, Design & Construction Group, telephone (518) 474-0201, fax (518) 486-1650.

Pursuant to Public Buildings Law § 8(6), effective January 11, 2020, for any projects where the project design commenced on or after January 1, 2020 and for any contracts over $5,000 for the work of construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, or improvement of any State building, a responsible and reliable NYS-certified Minority or Women-Owned Business Enterprise that submits a bid within ten percent of the lowest bid will be deemed the apparent low bidder provided that the bid is $1,400,000 or less, as adjusted annually for inflation beginning January 1, 2020. If more than one responsible and reliable MWBE firm meets these requirements, the MWBE firm with the lowest bid will be deemed the apparent low bidder. __XX_Project commenced design before January 1, 2020. Not subject to provision. _¬_____Project commenced design on or after January 1, 2020. Subject to provision.

The only time prospective bidders will be allowed to visit the job site to take field measurements and examine existing conditions of the project area will be at 10:00 a.m. on February 24th, 2020 at the OGS Field Office, 14312 Taylor Hollow Road, Gowanda, NY. Phone the office of Kim Himes, (716-532-5151) a minimum of 72 hours in advance of the date to provide the names of those who will attend the pre-bid site visit.

Pursuant to New York State Executive Law Article 15-A and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, OGS is required to promote opportunities for the maximum feasible participation of New York State-certified Minority- and Women-owned Business Enterprises (“MWBEs”) and the employment of minority group members and women in the performance of OGS contracts. All bidders are expected to cooperate in implementing this policy. OGS hereby establishes an overall goal of 10% for MWBE participation, 5% for MinorityOwned Business Enterprises (“MBE”) participation and 5% for Women-Owned Business Enterprises (“WBE”) participation (based on the current availability of qualified MBEs and WBEs) for Construction Work. The total contract goal can be obtained by utilizing any combination of MBE and /or WBE participation for subcontracting and supplies acquired under this Contract.

Pursuant to New York State Executive Law Article 15-A and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, OGS is required to promote opportunities for the maximum feasible participation of New York State-certified Minority- and Women-owned Business Enterprises (“MWBEs”) and the employment of minority group members and women in the performance of OGS contracts. All bidders are expected to cooperate in implementing this policy. OGS hereby establishes an overall goal of 30% for MWBE participation, 15% for Minority-Owned Business Enterprises (“MBE”) participation and 15% for WomenOwned Business Enterprises (“WBE”) participation (based on the current availability of qualified MBEs and WBEs) for Construction, HVAC and Plumbing Work and an overall goal of 4% for MWBE participation, 2% for MinorityOwned Business Enterprises (“MBE”) participation and 2% for Women-Owned Business Enterprises (“WBE”) participation (based on the current availability of qualified MBEs and WBEs) for Electrical Work . The total contract goal can be obtained by utilizing any combination of MBE and /or WBE participation for subcontracting and supplies acquired under this Contract.

The Bidding and Contract Documents for this Project are available on compact disc (CD) only, and may be obtained for an $8.00 deposit per set, plus a $2.00 per set shipping and handling fee. Pursuant to State Finance Law § 143(1), effective January 11, 2020, the required deposit will be waived upon request by any Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprise certified pursuant to Article 15-A of the Executive Law or any Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Enterprise certified pursuant to Article 17-B of the Executive Law. Contractors and other interested parties can order CD’s on-line through a secure web interface available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Please use the following link at the OGS website for ordering and payment instructions: https://online.ogs.ny.gov/dnc/contractorConsultant/esb/ESBPlansAvailableIndex.asp.

The Bidding and Contract Documents for this Project are available on compact disc (CD) only, and may be obtained for an $8.00 deposit per set, plus a $2.00 per set shipping and handling fee. Pursuant to State Finance Law § 143(1), effective January 11, 2020, the required deposit will be waived upon request by any Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprise certified pursuant to Article 15-A of the Executive Law or any Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Enterprise certified pursuant to Article 17-B of the Executive Law. Contractors and other interested parties can order CD’s on-line through a secure web interface available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Please use the following link at the OGS website for ordering and payment instructions: https://online.ogs.ny.gov/dnc/contractorConsultant/esb/ESBPlansAvailableIndex.asp.

For questions about purchase of bid documents, please send an e-mail to DCPlans@ogs.ny.gov, or call (518) 474-0203.

For questions about purchase of bid documents, please send an e-mail to DCPlans@ogs.ny.gov, or call (518) 474-0203.

For additional information on this project, please use the link below and then click on the project number: https://online.ogs.ny.gov/dnc/contractorConsultant/esb/ESBPlansAvailableIndex.asp.

For additional information on this project, please use the link below and then click on the project number: https://online.ogs.ny.gov/dnc/contractorConsultant/esb/ESBPlansAvailableIndex.asp.

John D. Lewyckyj, C.S.I., C.D.T. Deputy Director, OGS Design & Construction Group

John D. Lewyckyj, C.S.I., C.D.T. Deputy Director, OGS Design & Construction Group

Fareverse LLC v Timothy James

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF ERIE Plaintiff designates ERIE as the place of trial situs of the real property SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Mortgaged Premises: 100 BAKOS BOULEVARD BUFFALO, NY 14211 District: Section: 101.16 Block: 1 Lot: 34 NDEX NO. 806180/2018 FAREVERSE LLC I/L/T/N FINANCE OF AMERICA REVERSE LLC, Plaintiff, vs.

TIMOTHY JAMES AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT JAMES, JR; NAJA JAMES AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT JAMES, JR; JARELL JAMES AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT JAMES, JR; TOMA JAMES AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT JAMES, JR; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERRT JAMES, JR, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; NYS DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, "JOHN DOE #1" through "JOHN DOE #12," the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, Defendants.

To the above named Defendants YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the Plaintiff's Attorney within 20 days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York) in the event the United States of America is made a party defendant, the time to answer for the said United States of America shall not expire until (60) days after service of the Summons; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint.

NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $277,500.00 and interest, recorded on May 5, 2016, in Book 13763 at Page 3351, of the Public Records of ERIE County, New York, covering premises known as 100 BAKOS BOULEVARD BUFFALO, NY 14211.

The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.

ERIE County is designated as the place of trial because the real

property affected by this action is located in said county.

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home.

Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property.

Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action.

YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. RAS BORISKIN, LLC Attorney for Plaintiff 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675

Apartment For Rent Cambridge ave 2 bdrm uppr, hardwood floors, top porch, bsemt laundry hookup,Attic storage. No pets and available now, call 716-892-4098 for details and viewing.$600 A month rent + security deposit, application and references required.

14

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Februar y 19,2020

NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS SUN 2/9

ATTORNEYS

CLEANING SERVICE

LAW OFFICE OF DARIA L. PRATCHER, PC “Everything Real Estate” 523 Main Street (716)541-8574

SISTER DIANE'S CLEANING SERVICE

PRATCHER & ASSOCIATES Franklin Muhammad (Pratcher) Attorney 1133 Kensington Avenue (716) 838-4612

AUTO BEN’S Downtown Tire

50 Sycamore (cor. Elm) (716) 856-1066 or 894-1483

(770 )256-3271 Diane.Shakir@gmail.com Independent Contractor

SOPHIA CLEAN & CLEAR CLEANING SERVICE (716) 370-3862

OFFICE CLEANER AVAILABLE Monday -Saturday Any Time after 5pm (716) 602- 0000

ELECTRICAL EMPIRE ELECTRIC (716) 634-0330

BAIL BONDS GIST BAIL BONDS

A-1 Bail Bonds 855-2514 or 854-2128

BARBER SHOPS MASTERS TOUCH 1283 E, Delavan (716) 322-5641

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BOOKS ALIVE CHRISTIAN BOOKSTORE 2275 Fillmore Ave. (716) 837-1118 ZAWADI BOOKS 1382 Jefferson Ave. 716-903-6740

FLORISTS MAUREEN’S Flower Market 441 Ellicott St. * 852-4600

TAILORS ANN RHOD’S Tailoring 3185 Bailey Ave. (716) 838-5633

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Februar y 19,2020

Wednesday February 19

Saturday February 22

Hustle for Health Urban Line Dancing for Seniors at Gloria J Parks: 3242 Main St, 11am- 12pm. 716 -832 -1010

True Bethel Baptist Church CommUniversity: Free workshops 12 noon to 2:p.m. 907 E Ferry Street.

The Durham Central City Baby Café Info and support for pregnant and breastfeeding moms 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

200 Eagle St. (716) 4270566.

Sunday February 23

Thursday February 20 Grief Support Group: Delaine Waring AME Church, 680 Swan Street, Thursdays, 6:30-8 pm. 716-842-6747.

Yoga: Thursdays 7 p.m. Kemetic Yoga (Egyptian Yoga) $10. Juneteenth Headquarters, 1517 Genesee St. Free Mental Health First Aid Training: Community Health Center of Buffalo, 34 Benwood, 9a.m. – 5 p.m.; lunch provided. 986-9199 ext.

4351 for info or email slamwaka@chcb.net

Saturday February 22 Maat Law Academy 12 noon to 2p.m. , CAO Rafi Greene Center; .

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Wednesday February 26

2020 ReelRap Free Movie Night & Conversation: hosted by Outside the Box 4 p.m Uncle Tom’s Cabin . F716445-5122 or email outtheboks@aol.com.

Monday February 24 Hustle for Health Urban Line Dancing for Seniors at Gloria J Parks: 3242 Main St, . 12pm - 1pm. Call 716 832 1010 Yoga: 7 p.m. Kemetic Yoga (Egyptian Yoga) $10. Juneteenth Headquarters, 1517 Genesee St. Wednesday February 26 Public Meeting Notice: Board of the Westminster Community Charter School 3 p.m. at M&T Bank, One M&T Plaza - 17th Floor.

Hustle for Health Urban Line Dancing for Seniors at Gloria J Parks: 3242 Main St, . 11am12pm. Call 716 832 1010

The Durham Central City Baby Café Info and support for pregnant and breastfeeding moms 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

200 Eagle St. (716) 427-0566

Free Women’s BoxingClass Strong Community Schools and BPS Adult Education Division present FREE Women's Boxing Classes with Certified Boxing Coach Regina Williams! Classes are Mondays & Wednesdays at Bennett Community School Campus (2885 Main St. Buffalo, NY 14214) from 5:30-6:30 p.m. & 6:30-7:30 p.m. Classes are also held Tuesdays & Thursdays at East Community High School (820 Northampton St. Buffalo, NY 14211) from 5:30-6:30 p.m. & 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. No pre-registration required! Join us TODAY! For more information call (716) 888-7088 x. 202.

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JAZZY SENIORS! These lovely ladies were part of a holiday celebration at the Gloria J. Parks Community Center on Main Street this past November. Held in the Center’s Senior Dining Room the event included a full course meal and gospel singing. Senior Program Director Phyllis Caver stated: "Our program really is a community of people that care for each other! We have a lot to be thankful for this year!” The Gloria J. Parks Senior program serves 400 active seniors annually, providing hot lunches, exercise, field trips and more!

Looking beautiful ladies!

If you have ever considered a career in law enforcement, now is your chance.

Application Deadline: March 6 Details at nfta.com

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Februar y 19,2020