Challenger Community News January 23, 2019

R o c h e s t e r L e g i s l a t i o n S e e k s t o E s t a b l i s h Po l i c e A c c o u n t a b i l i t y B o a r d

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January 23, 2019 | FREE |

The Kamala Factor in the 2020 Presidential Race

WHO IS KAMALA HARRIS? Page 4

BUSINESS

Open House Will Showcase One-Stop Beverly Gray Business Exchange Center Page 5

ENTERTAINMENT

Buffalo Playwright Ishmael Reed Re-Writes “Hamilton” Page 8

VOICES The New Narrative:

TRANSITION

Job Well Done! Community Bids Farewell to GiGi’s Beloved Blondine Harvin Page 7

Buffalo Public Schools are Thriving!

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INSIDE ROCHESTER

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Januar y 23,2019

CNN, ABC News Political Commentator Tara Setmayer to Deliver Keynote Address

Rochester City Council to Submit Board of Education Seeks Input in Search for Expressions of King’s Legislation Establishing a Police Community Accountability Board in February Superintendent of Schools

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Legacy at RIT

ara Setmayer, CNN political commentator, ABC News political contributor and former GOP communications director on Capitol Hill, will deliver the keynote address at the 24th annual Rochester Institute of Technology Expressions of King’s Legacy on Thursday, January 31 from 12 noon to 2 p.m. in the RIT Gordon Field House. The topic of her address will be “Stand Up and Be Heard. The Importance of Living the Legacy” and will feature performances by Chloe Arnold’s Syncopated Ladies tap sensation and Kearstin Piper Brown & Edward Rothmel. The event is free and open to the public. Ms. Setmayer is currently the host of Honestly Speaking with Tara, podcast.

AROUND TOWN MAGIC IN THE MAKING

Geva Theatre Center opens its doors (and costume shop, props shop, dressing rooms, and much more) to the public on January 28 for their annual open house, “Magic in the Making,” where Rochesterians can get a FREE glimpse behind the scenes of New York State’s most attended regional theatre. 75 Woodbury Blvd, Monday, January 28, 4 – 7p.m.. Admission is FREE. For further information, contact the Box Office on (585) 232-4382.

Free Ice Skating Lessons for Youth at MLK Park Ice Rink

Free ice skating lessons for youth ages 4 through 15 will be held at the Martin Luther King Jr. Park Memorial Ice Rink, 353 Court St. The Free group lessons are being offered at 11 a.m. on five consecutive Saturdays, now through February 9.

To register for lessons, call 428-7541. For more information aboutvisit www.cityofrochester.gov/skating.

City Council President Loretta C. Scott and Vice President Adam C. McFadden were available to answer questions specific to the Police Accountability Board (PAB) legislation last week that the Council will be submitting for consideration with the February legislative packet.

“In the spirit of inclusivity and transparency that has guided this process, the Council is releasing a draft of the legislation to the community today,” said Rochester City Council President Loretta C. Scott. “The Council will also seek additional community feedback by holding public forums to discuss this legislation, one on the Eastside, one on the Westside, and one in our Center City. The details are still being confirmed for the public forums, but I want to make sure that all know there will be opportunities for further comment,” concluded President Scott.

If anyone would like to provide feedback in advance of the public forums, they are welcome to submit comments in writing to Council@cityofrochester.gov.

According to Mayor Warren, the new board would have "unprecedented powers to investigate complaints as well as work toward better policies related to the use of force." The new board would have the power to subpoena and compel testimony.

The mayor adds, "This will improve public safety by improving the public’s trust, creating a fully transparent investigative process that’s fair to both the community and our officers."

The mayor says three of the nine-member panel would be chosen directly by the mayor's office, three would be recommended to the mayor by a community organization (the Police Accountability Board Alliance) and the remaining three members would be recommended by City Council. Board members will in turn launch a search for an executive director. Board members would also serve three-year terms, staggered after the initial appointees.

While the board would have the power to recommend charges and discipline, the police chief would have final say on how to deal with accused officers -- a point of criticism by activists of the current system. If the chief disagrees with the board's recommendation, he would be required to explain his reasoning in a message to the board.

The Rochester Board of Education is inviting members of the public to participate in community forums to help select a new Superintendent of Schools.

The community forums will be held: Tuesday, January 29 East High School 1801 East Main Street, 14609 Time: 6:30 – 8:30 pm Wednesday, January 30 Joseph C. Wilson Commencement 501 Genesee Street, 14611 Time: 6:30 – 8:30 pm Representatives from the superintendent search firm, BWP and Associates, will facilitate these forums to learn about the concerns and priorities of the Rochester community in selecting the next leader of the City School District.

Community members are also being asked to participate in a survey that will help the Board of Education determine the type of leader selected to guide the school District. The survey can be accessed through Friday, February 15th at www.rcsdk12.org/ suptsearch.

Board President Van Henri White said, “We value the community’s input and welcome them in this process. Change is indeed underway, and the Superintendent’s management of the District impacts nearly 30,000 children who deserve nothing but the best when it comes to a high-quality education.”

The Board of Education expects to choose a candidate by May, and the new Superintendent would start in July.

The new legislation comes a month after after the indictment of a Rochester police officer in November for assault in a reported case of police brutality.

SPORTS/THE BILLS REPORT

Patriots Continue Dominance in AFC It’s truly amazing how New England Patriots continue to defeat their opponents during the playoffs. LA Chargers were the latest team to waste a trip to Foxboro, Mass.

Chargers Head coach Anthony Lynn was thoroughly out coached by Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick. Patriots continue to step up their game in the playoffs. They seem to coast through regular NFL season mainly because their weak divisional opponents are roughly six wins a season and Patriots pick another six wins outside of division each year. It’s an impressive formula for success and beating a young K.C. Chief team in overtime just adds on to the Patriot dynasty. You may not like them but you got to respect them!!! Did anyone think K.C. Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid would beat Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick in a winner take all game? HC Andy Reid as usual just can’t win the big game. Super Bowl LIII L.A. Rams v. New England Patriots will make for a very exciting Super Bowl. Once again both teams have several former Buffalo Bills on their active roster and we will be interviewing them in Atlanta next week , like L.A. Rams defensive back Nichel Robey-Coleman, who was part of the controversial non-call at ethe nd of Saints v. Rams game.

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The New Breed of Quarterback

After watching Dallas Cowboys QB Dak Prescott struggle against LA Rams on Saturday night it hit me like a cold breeze on a January day. Dak looked just like Bills QB Josh Allen performance wise in the sense of not being able to complete short passes. Dak’s footwork is bad inside of the pocket but once he’s outside of pocket his accuracy was on point. These modern day QB’s come out of a spread offense in college which allows for them to use their athletic ability and move around before throwing the football. It’s the NFL fault for trying to make them pocket passers. It’s an old school mentality demanded by the owners not wanting their QB's to run with Continued Page 12

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Januar y 23, 2019

AREA BRIEFS Legislator Miller-Williams Joins Board of the CAO

Wiley Sports Pavilion to MLK Event Rescheduled

Erie County Legislator Barbara Miller-Williams has been appointed to the Board of Directors for the Community Action Organization of Western New York (CAO).

The organization, which was founded in 1965, is the official anti-poverty agency of Western New York and is known for being a leader in serving the community. The CAO’s mission is to help individuals and families achieve self-sufficiency by focusing on community health, economic empowerment, educational advancement, neighborhood revitalization and workforce development.

Legislator Miller-Williams brings a wealth of experience to the board, having served as Council Member for the Ellicott District, as a Buffalo Police Officer and in the United States Army Reserve.

The Johnny B. Wiley Sports Pavilion, 1100 Jefferson at Best St., has rescheduled their program, “Remembering Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. " to take place on Saturday, January 26 from 3-6 p.m. .

The event will spotlight area youth and feature their voices regarding Dr. King. The community is invited to attend.

On February 9 a Valentines Shopping Bazaar will be held at the Wiley Pavilion. If you are interested in vending call Theresa Land at (716) 4442179.

New Voting Laws Recently passed legislation will bring much-needed changes to New York State voting laws. These new laws will provide common sense changes that will encourage young people to register to vote, raise voter turnout, consolidate the number of primary elections and give voters greater transparency into campaign donations. The recently passed changes being discussed include early voting, the combining of state and federal primary voting, pre-registration for young voters, closing the LLC loophole as well as voting by mail and same day registration.

Members of the WNY Delegation hosted a discussion of the new laws last Wednesday at the Delavan Grider Community Center.

Eva Doyle is 2019 Black History Month Keynote Speaker Historian Eva Doyle will be the 2019 Black History Month Keynote Speaker on February 1, 2019 from 4- 5:45 p.m. at the Frank E. Merriweather Jr. Branch Library auditorium located at 1324 Jefferson Avenue.

This year’s Theme is, “Black Migration.”

Mrs. Doyle, a Doctoral Candidate that lectures extensively on topics related to African and African American history throughout Western New York, will focus on African Americans Migrating to Buffalo, NY. She is a columnist for the Criterion Newspaper and is the author of 11 books and is the Host of her own radio show called Eye on History.

Mrs. Doyle has received numerous awards for her work in education and her community service.

This 2019 Black History Month program is being presented by the Johnetta R. Cole AMVETS Post No. 24 and is free and open to the public.

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Superintendent Cash Declares The Buffalo Public Schools Have Been Turned Around!

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Final Accountability Determinations Due to strategic innovation within the Education Bargain with Students and Parents - the Buffalo Public Schools transformational turnaround plan - graduation rates are rising, student growth and achievement scores are rising, technological innovation is a hallmark attribute, and the District is providing greater programmatic access, quality, and opportunity for all students than ever before.

Specifically: ·The 4-year graduation rate climbed to 64.5% for 14 BPS high schools, with half (7) at graduation rates above the state average of 80%. Our 5-year graduation rate is 67.5%, and our 6-year graduation rate is 68.3%! · The number of Schools in Good Standing have more than doubled from 14 (27%) to 37 (74%) since 2015!

See Voices: "The New ·Receivership Schools have been reduced from the Narrative " Page 11 original 25 in 2015, to only two (2) today!

"In just over 3 years, the Buffalo Public Schools are now a handful of schools away from being an entire School District in Good Standing! This is truly an incredible achievement in urban public education.

"The Education Bargain, adopted by the Buffalo Board of Education in 2016, states that the District will guarantee pathways to opportunity that will lead to achievement and success in exchange for hard work, commitment, and collaboration of our students and parents. We believe that an equal and high-quality education is every child’s civil right; and, as educators we must deliver on this essential democratic principle. The Education Bargain includes: Rigorous Early Elementary Education; Strong Community Schools; New Innovative High Schools; Extended Learning Excellence For All Our Students; Services For Our Neediest Children And Families; and A New Relationship With Our Teachers The Bargain is working" declared Dr.Cash.

“The Board of Education and I applaud the extraordinary work of our students, parents, teachers, administrators, staff, alumni, and our many, many strategic partners as we continue our trajectory toward becoming the best, highest performing, most equitable, whole child centered urban school district in the nation!” exclaimed Superintendent Kriner Cash.

#ChangeTheDate Change The Date Coalition Supports Moving The Buffalo Public School District Board Elections From May To Primary Election Day In June For Greater Participation And A Greater Democratic Process.

The Change the Date Coalition, a group of concerned clergy, parents, the business community and others held a press conference Monday at Mt. Olive Baptist Church to announce their support to move the Buffalo Public School District board elections from May to the New York State primary day in June.

The change, they say, would ensure greater participation, lower costs, more convenience and a greater democratic process.

“Voter participation on the May School Board election is historically extremely low – averaging 8-10 percent and as low as three percent.,” pointed out Samuel Radford, president of the District Parent Coordinating Council. “By moving the election date just one month to the primary day in June, there would be greater voter participation, ensuring more residents have a voice in decisions impacting Buffalo schools, students and families. With all nine school board members up for election at the same time this year, it is imperative to change the election date now.”

The Coalition also introduced criteria they view as necessary characteristics for those running for the open Board seats – primarily that they care about our children The group wants to increase the $5,000 stipend that board members currently receive to bring the compensation more in line with other upstate cities.

This is a crucial election year, as all nine members of the board – three at-large and six district members – will be elected this year.

This is the Coalition’s second attempt (they tried last year to get it moved to November) to get the date moved.

The Change the Date Coalition includes Great Lakes Baptist Association, Concerned Clergy Coalition of WNY, Baptist Minister’s Conference of Buffalo and Vicinity, Greater Buffalo United Ministries, VOICE Buffalo, and Back to Basics Outreach Ministries; the Buffalo Niagara Partnership; the District Parent Coordinating Council representing Buffalo School District parents and families; local foundations, the business and individual private sector companies, and the nonprofit community.

Sissieretta Jones Sissieretta Jones was the first African-American woman to headline a concert on the main stage of Carnegie Hall, in 1893.

She sang in Madison Square Garden and at the White House, She performed for the Prince of Wales, toured the nation and the world. But there were color lines she never managed to break, like the one that kept the nation’s major opera companies segregated, denying her the chance to perform in fully staged operas.

“They tell me my color is against me,” she once lamented to a reporter from The Detroit Tribune.

When another interviewer suggested that she transform herself with makeup and wigs, she dismissed the idea.

“Try to hide my race and deny my own people?” she responded in the interview, which was published by The San Francisco Call in 1896. “Oh, I would never do that.” She added: “I am proud of belonging to them and would not hide what I am even for an evening.”

Jones was perhaps the most famous of an early generation of African-American singers who shattered racial barriers in classical music, more than a half-century before Marian Anderson became the first Black artist to sing a leading role at the Metropolitan Opera in New York.

“Thirty years out of slavery for African-Americans in this country, here she was on the stage of Carnegie Hall,” Jessye Norman, who became a great African-American diva in the Continued Page 15

NATIONAL + WORLD

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Januar y 23,2019

Who Is 2020 Presidential Candidate Kamala Harris?

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demonstrations as a toddler and sang in a Baptist choir.

Her mother also ensured that Harris and her younger sister, Maya, maintained ties to their Indian heritage by raising them with Hindu beliefs and taking them to her home country every couple of years. Harris' parents divorced when she was seven years old.

After attending Howard University and the University of California's Hastings College of the Law, she embarked on a rise through the California legal system, emerging as state attorney general in 2010. Following the November 2016 elections, Harris became just the second African-American woman and the first South Asian American to win a seat in the U.S. Senate.

Harris married lawyer Douglas Emhoff on August 22, 2014, in Santa Barbara, California. She is the stepmother of his two children.

“My entire career has been focused on keeping people safe. It is probably one of the things that motivates me more than anything else. And when I look at this moment in time, I know that the American people deserve to have someone who is going to fight for them,” she stated.

n Martin Luther King Day, California Democratic Senator Kamala Harris announced that she will be running for president in 2020.

Harris, 54, chose to launch her full scale campaign on that day to honor the legacies of two of her heroes. Forty-seven years ago this week, Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman ever to run for president, launched her campaign. And Martin Luther King Jr. has been a role model for Harris throughout her life in what she views as his "aspirational fight for progress." Harris is the first AfricanAmerican woman to announce a run for the White House in 2020, and the fourth woman in the field.

The theme of Harris’ presidential campaign will be “For the people.’” Her campaign’s logo and color scheme draw inspiration from Miss Chisholm’s 1972 presidential bid.

-Who Is Kamala Harris?Kamala Devi Harris was born October 20, 1964, in Oakland, California. Her mother was from India and her father was Jamaican. Reared in a predominantly African-American neighborhood of Berkeley, she was brought to civil rights

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Harris recently published a memoir, The Truths We Hold: An American Journey, that dove into many of the messages she is expected to focus on during her campaign.

According to a Harris aide, her priorities in the campaign will be addressing the cost of living, pushing for a more just society, expanding access to better quality of life and restoring dignity and responsibility to public office. Issues like immigration, education and criminal justice reform are expected to feature prominently in her agenda.

-Facing CriticismHowever in recent weeks, Harris has faced criticism from some on the left about her record as a district attorney in

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San Francisco and later as California’s attorney general. In a widely shared New York Times op-ed, law professor Lara Bazelon called Harris a “regressive” prosecutor who was often on “the wrong side of history” on the matter of criminal justice reform, as well as someone who “fought tooth and nail to uphold wrongful” convictions in California.

A prominent Bay Area activist accused the senator on Twitter of “terrorizing Black communities” by working to strengthen the state’s prison system.

In her first press conference as a presidential candidate on Monday, Harris said she took responsibility for decisions she made a prosecutor and expressed regret for not being able to do more in certain cases she was involved in.

“I can tell you of the cases where I really regret that we were not able to charge somebody that molested a child but the evidence wasn’t there.

There are cases ... where there were folks who made a decision in my office who did not consult with me and I wish they had.

But again, I take full responsibility for those decisions,” Harris said at Howard University, her alma mater.

But Harris made no apologies about her career, stating that “there is a lot about what I did as a prosecutor that I’m proud of,” including starting a first-inthe-nation program that offered first-time nonviolent offenders a chance to have their charges dismissed if they completed vocational training.

“There are fundamental flaws in the criminal justice system and ... this criminal justice system needs to be reformed,” she said.

She has also responded to questions about her decision to defend California’s choice to deny sexual reassignment surgery to a trans inmate. She said

she was obligated to defend the state’s positions as attorney general and that “unfortunately” she was sometimes forced to take stances “contrary to my beliefs.”

“But the bottom line is the buck stops with me, and I take full responsibility for what my office did,” Harris said.

-More Criticism from the LeftBlack Agenda Report writer Margaret Kimberly in her Freedom Rider column questions whether Harris deserves Black support.

She writes in part: “As attorney general Harris Continued Page 11

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Januar y 23, 2019

Open House is Scheduled to Showcase One-Stop Beverly Gray Business Resource Center

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n Thursday, January 31, a special portrait unveiling and dedication ceremony will take place at the Beverly Gray Business Exchange Center to honor Beverly A. Gray, a former council member and community activist.

The public is invited to view the portrait at a special Open House from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Center, which is located 334 East Utica Street in Buffalo. During the Open House, a number of small businesses that have been serviced by the Center will be highlighted.

Community members can also meet Beverly Gray tenants and service partners who offer a variety of services to assist small businesses and enjoy a networking reception.

Mayor Byron W. Brown stated, “I’m honored to recognize the former Council Member who did so much to bring us to this important moment. Beverly A. Gray was a dedicated community advocate, City Council Member and an entrepreneur who envisioned Jefferson Avenue and Buffalo’s East Side as a vibrant hub for innovation and economic growth. The Center is a wonderful addition to this neighborhood, creating opportunity for minorities, women and veterans, while at the same time serving as a one-stop business resource center. Ms. Gray would be proud.”

Beverly A. Gray served on the Buffalo Common Council from 1996 to 2003. She became the first and only Black female to ever serve as an At Large Member for the City Of Buffalo and was the first Black female to run for Mayor. She died of cancer in 2004 at the age of 53. The Beverly Gray Business Exchange Center is a comprehensive small business technical resource center that supports entrepreneurship and innovation for minority, women, and service-disabled veteran business owners in the City of Buffalo and Western New York region.

The Beverly Gray Business Exchange Center is operated by Next Street, a company which works with small businesses, non-profits and the organizations to accelerate their success.

Executive Director Royce Woods contracted Freedom Wall artist, Edreys Wajed, to create a portrait of the former Council Member.“This is a community building and we wanted to honor one of our great community members, the late Beverly A. Gray,

Beverly Gray (above) laid the solid foundation for many projects in the City. The Redevelopment of Jefferson Avenue Strip was her key project. Tops, the Apollo, the Merriweather Library and Small Business Development are just some of the results of her hard work.

in a special way. I feel Freedom Wall Artist Edreys Wajed accomplished this,” stated Woods.

Woods continued, “The Beverly Gray Business Exchange Center serves as an information clearinghouse for small businesses and a hub for creating entrepreneurship and community wealth on the Eastside. We are committed to helping businesses grow and succeed, creating an interconnected network of assistance providers, and establishing qualified Minority-and Women owned business suppliers for the City’s Anchor institutions.”

Mayor Brown applauded the strategic partnership with the Beverly Gray Business Exchange Center and Next Street Buffalo.“Business growth and success! This is my vision. I believe connecting entrepreneurs and early stage businesses to business planning education and advice, MWBE Certification, financing and networking will enable them to successfully start and launch their businesses,” said Mayor Brown.

“It will be great day for our family to drive by and see Beverly A. Gray’s name on a building to remind us of her of love, passion and commitment to her community,” stated Dwaine Terry, Gray’s nephew.

SBA and SCORE Buffalo Niagara to Present Annual Straight Talk BUFFALO, NY – The U.S. Small Business Administration Buffalo District Office and the SCORE Buffalo Niagara Chapter will host Straight Talk 2019 on Saturday, January 26 at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center. This is the 23rd annual presentation of this program which has attracted thousands of participants over the years to expose entrepreneurs and small business owners to information and resources about starting or growing a small business.

The 60-minute seminars reflect the ever-changing needs of the Western New York entrepreneurial community. Additionally, participants can obtain one-on-one business counseling, visit information booths and speak to representatives from local business resources, and network with other entrepreneurs and small business owners.

“SBA is committed to expanding access to capital for small businesses and entrepreneurs in underserved communities so that we can drive economic growth and job creation,” said SBA Buffalo District Director Franklin Sciortino.

Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center. Cost of attendance is $25.00 on the day of the event, pre-registration tickets are available for $20.00. Students with current/valid identification pay $10.00, and veterans attend for free with proof of veteran status. Registration fees include a continental breakfast and parking.

CAO & Pathstone Enterprise Center Inc. Presents Financial Literacy Workshops CAO and Pathstone Enterprise Center Inc. presents Financial Literacy Workshops on February 4 “The Rule of 72”, and February 25 “Tax Now, Tax Later, Tax Advantage & Estate Planning”, at 1423 Fillmore Ave., from 6pm- 8pm For more information call 716-332-3773 ext. 1407.

Registered attendants will automatically be scheduled for the Business Basics introductory seminar to learn about business plans and other foundations of growing a successful business. Participants can select two additional seminars from the following list: •Show Me the Money •Make Yourself Credit Worthy •Maximize Opportunities through Federal, State, and Local Certifications •Navigating Your Business through Permits and Taxes •Social Media Marketing •“We Did It! You Can Too!” featuring a discussion by successful business owners •Home-Based Business Issues •Effectively Building Business Relationships for Women Following the event, the Straight Talk Series will begin on February 7, 2019 for eight successive Thursdays from 5:45 - 8:30 p.m. at Medaille College in Buffalo, New York. The Straight Talk Series provides additional information about starting, maintaining, and growing your own business. Attendance is free with registration to Straight Talk on January 26, otherwise the cost is $5.00 per session.

For further information contact 716-867-5227 or visit www.WNYStraightTalk.org to register online. .

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FAITH & FAMILY

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Januar y 23,2019

Services Set For Saturday, January 26 RISE UP! An Evening of Marie Peigne Stanford Holt Led 101 Years of Full Life Spiritual and Gospel Music Velma Velma’s love of life can be atfter 101 years of a full life, Velma Marie Holt peacefully Stacey V. Gibbs, a national and internationally renowned choral composer and arranger, will join with Harmonia Chamber Singers to present Rise Up!, an evening of spirituals and gospel music on Saturday, March 2 at 7:30 p. at First Shiloh Baptist Church, 15 Pine Street.

Student choirs from the Buffalo Academy for visual and Performing Arts (, Frederick Law Olmsted High School, and Charter School for Applied Technologies will also participate.

Tickets are $15 or $5 for students under 18. For more information visit www.Harmoniacs.org

Free "Breakfast at Metro" All are invited to join us for our Community “Breakfast at Metro” at Metropolitan UM Church, 657 Best Street on Saturday, January 26 from 10 am - 12:00 noon. Our Special Guest Speaker will be Joyce Mitchell Stokes, Homefinder/Recruiter This is a community event which is open to everyone. So, bring your family, friends, and neighbors to Metro. Pastor Angela Stewart is Pastor.

We’ve come this far by faith, leaning on the LORD. Trusting in His Holy Word, He never failed me yet!

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slept away in her home on Christmas Day, December 25, 2018.

On Saturday, January 26, 2019, a visitation will occur at 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. immediately followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Columba-Brigid Roman Catholic Church, 75 Hickory Street, Buffalo.

Born in Grayson, Oklahoma, Velma left there as a young bride with her first husband, the late Neil Stanford and moved to Akron, Ohio. She eventually settled in Buffalo during the early 1940’s where she met and married the late George A. Holt, Sr. They enjoyed 48 years of marriage raising seven children.

During World War II Velma joined many women at the Curtiss Wright plant making materials to assist in that effort. While her children were attending school, Velma was a clerk in a local delicatessen close to her home. She ventured out as a community organizer with the Community Action Organization of Erie County and work for many years as a poll inspector with the Erie County Board of Elections. Her love of life was the 44 years spent as an outstanding cook in the kitchens of Buffalo’s inner-city Catholic church rectories.

A recipient of many awards for her lifetime experiences, the most significant recognition is an honorary doctorate of humane letters presented by Christ the King Seminary in East Aurora. The conferring of this degree marked the first time the Seminary had given such a degree to a woman, to a non-cleric and to one without college training. Velma also received the St. Joseph’s Lay Award from the Buffalo Catholic Diocese and the Celebration of Sages honor from St. Phillips Episcopal Church,

tributed to her religious faith; yet throughout her life she held a keen and devoted interest and love for music, especially jazz. Her late husband, George, was an acclaimed jazz trumpeter. Mr. Holt traveled the globe with his music and instilled in his wife and children a love of music that transcends the norm. Recall now, Velma was not only a cook, but also a gourmet cook. She and George entertained numerous friends and were well known for fine dining at their home on Sunday afternoons where beautiful music and inspiring conversations reigned.

Velma leaves her children Constance Stanford Coles, Lynn M. Holt, George A. Holt, Jr. (Mattie), Arthur R. Holt, Dale A. Holt (Tina); and sister-in-law Nora Payne. Her sons Cornelius Stanford and Marlon G. Holt, Sr. predeceased her, and they are survived by daughters-in-law Shirley Stanford and Dawn Hooser Holt. She is also survived by seventy-five grandchildren, great and great-great grandchildren and many other close family and friends who loved her dearly.

In lieu of flowers, your gift in memory of Velma may be made to the Hospice Foundation of WNY, P. O. Box 590, Buffalo 142400590. Final arrangements are entrusted to Brian K. Lewis Fu-

neral Home, 347 Peckham Street, Buffalo, NY 14206.

FAITH & FAMILY

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Januar y 23, 2019

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Job Well Done! Community Bids Farewell PRISONERS ARE PEOPLE TOO PLANS REGIONAL CONFERENCE to GiGis Beloved Blondine Harvin

S Donald Paulk

Legionnaire Paulk Receives Recognition Legionnaire Donald Paulk a member of Jesse Clipper American Legion Post 430 received recognition on January 8, 2019 from the Johnetta R. Cole AMVETS Post No. 24 during their regular membership meeting for providing an outstanding tribute to deceased American Heroes.

The recognition was for two separate events, the Remembrance of Pearl Harbor Day and again for the National Wreaths Across America Day Ceremony. Among the attendees was his American Legion Post 430 Commander Paulette Woods along with Legionnaire Paulk’s wife Gwendolyn.

As a true patriot in the cold of December 7, 2018, just before sunrise at approximately 7:48 am on Pearl Harbor Day Legionnaire Paulk played TAPS in front of Buffalo City Hall honoring those heroes that lost their lives on that fateful day in the Asiatic- Pacific Theater of WWII, Sunday, December 7, 1941.

Again on December 15, 2018 Legionnaire Paulk answered the call to perform TAPS standing in the distance with his horn at the National Wreaths Across America Day Ceremony held at the Pinelawn Cemetery at 12 noon honoring our deceased American Heroes.

As Legionnaire Paulk began to play TAPS silence took over everyone in attendance as each stood proudly, heads held high, civilians with their hand over their hearts and veterans displaying a righthand salute. Pride filled the air along with that melodic sound. Because of his efforts Legionnaire Paulk was recognized by AMVETS Post No. 24 and continues to be an inspiration to all those that know him and his dedication to America is an example of what it is to be an American!

everal hours after a devastating pre-dawn fire gutted the interior of her long standing GiGi’s restaurant in 2015, owner Blondine Harvin stood heartbroken, surveying the scene at 257 East Ferry St. The community shared in her pain.

“Just keep praying,” she said softly.

About a week later Blondine, with her brother Rochester Davis at her side, sounded a lot more hopeful.

“Yes we’re going to rebuild,” she said with confidence. It was too soon to offer a timetable she said, and it would probably take some time, but GiGi’s would reopen.

“Everybody has been so supportive,” she continued, thanking the community. “We have heard from a lot of good people …we have had a lot of good support.”

Sadly, she did not live to see her beloved restaurant reopen..

Blondine Elizabeth Harvin, an iconic entrepreneur and devoted community pillar, passed away on January 16 at the blessed age of 80.

The community bid her a loving and heartfelt farewell during homegoing services at her home church, True Bethel Baptist Church on January 22.

Blondine was born on August 9th, 1938, in Buffalo, New York to the late Rochester Davis, Sr. and Sarah (Anthony) Davis as the second daughter of six children. She attended Buffalo Public schools, graduating from Fosdick Masten Park High, always managing to maintain high honors. She met Alfonzo Harvin Sr. and they eventually wed on July 30, 1955. From this beautiful union came two sons, Alfonzo Jr. (Butch) and Darryl.

A strong work ethic was built within Blondine at the tender age of 12 years old. She cooked biscuits alongside her sister, Doris, at the YMCA, not knowing how this experience would impact her later in life. She became a nurse's aide al 19 years of age and then a secretary at the A&P offices on Jefferson Avenue.

Determined to become her own boss, Blondine took a leap of faith and purchased the original GiGi's Restaurant in 1960 from Ena Hartman who went on to become a famed actress in Hollywood.

Blondine was a pillar in Buffalo's community, and took care of those around her. Awaking al 4 a.m. and ending her work days at 8 p.m., 5 to 6 days every week, she served new and old friends along with her staff for decades. She was known for her strength and humility, and was devoted to keeping the "community's restaurant" doors open.

Spanning over 50 years of service to the Buffalo area GiGi's serving as a neutral meeting ground for local politicians and many famous faces from Lena Horne and Joe Louis to Rev. Martin Luther King.

Yet it was Blondine's selfless acts of giving; her unconditional love for her community; and her incomparable mouth watering Southern recipes that made her restaurant a legendary landmark to this very day.

Affectionately and notably known as GiGi, Goodie, 'G', Ms. Harvin, and Bum Bum, Blondine was a loving mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, greatgrandmother and friend.

Blondine leaves behind a legacy and everlasting memories for her beloved family and the City of Buffa­lo that is built on integrity and grace. Her three loving

sisters, Marilyn Davis, Maxine Davis, and Doris Peake; loving brother, John Davis; and niece, Tajanae Davis, preceded Blondine in death. Blondine was an amazing woman who is remembered in love by two sons: Alfonzo Harvin, Jr. and "Darryl W. Harvin ; one brother, Rochester (Beverly) Davis, Jr., four grandchildren, two great grandchildren and a host of special friends and relatives.

(Her son Darrly is currently working to reopen GiGi’s inside the Northland Workforce Training Center.)

GiGi's Forever!

HAPPY NEW YEAR to you, good people.

PRP2 is in the early stages of planning for its Regional Conference. I have mentioned in the past that it was coming in April but due to some unforeseen circumstances the conference has now been scheduled for May 3 – 4, 2019. It will take place at Mount Olive Baptist Church, 701 East Delavan Avenue in Buffalo, NY. This will be the fourth conference that Karima PRP2 has delivered to the community in AMIN nearly 14 years and it is long overdue. Our last conference, held in 2012, was focused on helping the children of incarcerated parents in Erie and Niagara counties. Presently, we have no over-arching theme for this event, but several topics have been tentatively selected. They range from what families can do to support an incarcerated loved one to things we all can do to initiate criminal justice reform through legislation. The state of our Erie County Holding Center will be on the agenda as well as very sensitive issues such as what can be done to overcome the stigma of having a loved one in prison.

These topics and more will be discussed in workshops that all connect with reducing recidivism. Prison families, returning citizens, and YOU are all invited to attend a conference that welcomes you to share your ideas regarding the state of mass incarceration in Erie County and the State of New York. We are in the process of selecting a keynote speaker that will inspire, empower, and energize you to work for much needed change.

Save the date NOW. Share this information with family and friends. Plan to attend PRP2’s regular monthly meetings where more conference details will be shared as we move forward to get ready for this event. The next meeting of PRISONERS ARE PEOPLE TOO will be held on Monday, January 29, 2019 at the C.A.O. Rafi Greene Center, 1423 Fillmore Avenue @ Glenwood in Buffalo, from 7:00 – 9:00pm. Need more information? Call BaBa Eng, 716-491-5319 or E-mail Karima Amin, karimatells@

yahoo.com.

GET AHEAD

Let us help you earn your High School Equivalency Diploma (formerly GED )

For FREE Call for an appointment 716.888.7088 ext. 100

All WNYers Welcome More information on

Buffalo Public Schools Adult Education Division programs available at:

www.UpSkill.org or (716) 888-7088 ext. 100

8

Entertainment

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Januar y 23,2019

"The Haunting of Lin-Manuel Miranda"

Buffalo Playwright Ishmael Reed Says The Musical “HAMILTON” Did Not Get History Right So He Re-Wrote The Play!

The play, “The Haunting of Lin-Manuel Miranda,” was written by Buffalo’s own renowned Ishmael Reed, 80, a prolific and often satirical writer who, as a critic reviewing one of his books once said, “has made members of every constituency angry”during his long career.

Mr. Reed’s most recent work should prove to be no exception.

“The Haunting of LinManuel Miranda” targets “Hamilton,” the play, and “Hamilton,” the best-selling biography by Ron Chernow, which inspired Mr. Miranda.

The program handed out at a recent reading at the Nuyorican Poets Café in New York City said, “The Haunting of Lin-Manuel Miranda” was “about a playwright who is misled by a historian of White history into believing that Alexander Hamilton was an abolitionist.”

Reed, who was awarded a MacArthur fellowship in 1998 (The fellowships are often referred to as genius grants.) “takes no prisoners” in “The Haunting,” says Rome Neal, who directed a recent reading of the play at the Lower East Side of Manhattan café.

In “The Haunting,” there is a character named Lin-Manuel Miranda who is visited by ghosts. They help Mr. Reed accomplish his main goal, which Neal said in an interview was “to give the voices that were left out of the musical some speaking lines.”

“By directing it, I was standing up for Ishmael Reed’s work,” said Mr. Neal, who has directed eight of Mr. Reed’s plays. “He rights wrongs with his plays. He brings light or understanding to the situation that’s going on.”

ON STAGE •Sound of Freedom Concert

Human Trafficking Awareness Concert Featuring Drea D’Nur Curtis Lovell and more!

January 25 7 p.m.

Tickets $20 www.projectmonashouse.com •BEAU FLEUVE First Friday Arts X Beats Event February 1 / 7-10 p.m.

Featuring Curtis Lovell Imagine Event Center 71 Military Road Tickets $10 search artsxbeats on evetbrite.com

Author / Playwright Ishmael Reed

Lyra D. Monteiro, an assistant professor of history at Rutgers University, Newark, who wrote one of the chapters in “Historians on Hamilton,” said “The Haunting” was “entirely correct to bring attention” to Hamilton and slavery.

“The Haunting” also imagined conversations between Mr. Miranda and Native Americans. “Chernow doesn’t even mention us,” a Native American character declares.

Professor Monteiro said the history of Native Americans was “even more erased in our imagination than slavery is.”

“The Haunting of Li-Manuel Miranda” treats Hamilton and slavery far differently.

“Probably Ishmael is right.

‘Hamilton’ has been given a free pass or there’s been an exaggeration of Hamilton’s anti-slavery” said one Columbia University History professor. “It’s a legitimate outlook that he has.” Hamilton may not have liked slavery but “antislavery” was “low down on his list of priorities.”

Money for the reading came from Mr. Reed — $5,000, he said. “That’s like lunch money for the investors in ‘Hamilton.’ This is a David-againstGoliath effort.”

Now Mr. Reed and Mr. Neal

are trying to raise $50,000 (Mr. Reed said they already had $20,000) toward a staged version at the Nuyorican Poets Cafe in May. “It’s going to be marvtastic,” Mr. Neal said.

“It’s going to be marvelous and fantastic.”

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S !

Gail (Gey) Lyons of Sounds & Echoes (right) congratulates renowned song stylist Drea D’Nur (left) following her amazing “Tribute to Nina Simone” performance Jan. 19 at the Musical fare Theatre. Drea will perform this Friday Jan. 25th at 7 p.m. along with daughter Sehrea N‘Dayu, Curtis Lovell and Ten Thousand at the Landmark on Pearl, 318 Pearl St.,for The Sound of Freedom Human Trafficking Awareness Concert to benefit Project Monas House.

Tix @ projectmonashouse.com

•Native Son at the Paul Robeson Theatre: now thru Feb. 10 ; Fridays & Saturdays 8 p.m.; Sunday matinee at 4 p.m. at the Paul Robeson Theatre 350 Masten Ave. directed by Paullette D. Harris. Audience talkback after the production on Sundays. For reservations call boxoffice at (716) 884-2013 or pickup tickets and coupons online at www.aaccbuffalo. org For group rate information email paulroesontheatrebuffalo@gmail.com •Top Knotch Band Presents a Valentine’s Day Musicians Ball Dedication: Tribute to Buffalo’s Own “Gone But Not 4 Gotten” featuring live entertainment by Chris Dean, Unity Band, Dee Paris, Denzal Ward, Nice & Easy, Uncle Willie, Dalane, Leroy Johnson, Puncho, Top Knotch Band, Saturday, Feb. 16 from 5:30-11 p.m.

Schiller Park Senior Center, 2057 Genesee, tickets $25,VIP $35 info call 716 603-6506.

•Love Cadenza Part 5 Valentine's R&B Concert.

Saturday February 9, @The Tralf Music Hall; 7p.m. Doors | 8p.m. Show featuring recording artists D Mott Motley, Kimera Lattimore, from Rochester NY Carlton Wilcox, Buffalo Music Hall of Fame Inductee trumpeter Brian Freeman and Peoples Choice Award Winner Saxophonist Will Holton, Reserved Seating EventmTickets starting at $25 Ticketmaster.com / Tralf Box Office 852.2860 / Tralf.com

•Avery Sunshine and Elan Trotman in concert on F r i d a y, February 15 at 8pm at Rockwell Hall Performing Arts Center.

Tickets on sale now at the Rockwell Hall Box Office on the Buffalo State College campus, 1300 Elmwood. Avenue (716 )8783005. Presented by DIAAB Entertainment.

Wendell Rivera Latin Jazz Ensemble at the Hotel Henry Jazz Concert Series (poll winners will be announced) Wednesday, February 13 @ 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm Hotel Henry, 444 Forest Ave. $15 eventbrite.com

•Rick James Birthday Celebration Concert by Reflex Productions Sat, Feb. 2, 7:30-11:30pm Adam's Mark Hotel 120 Church Street

•Buffalo's Own BRIAN MCKNIGHT on Saturday, February 16, at 8:00 p.m., Seneca Niagara Events CenterTickets start at $35

SKOVU TV Free Movie Week

Free Movie Week on Skovu TV featuring Black Malice with Karlie Redd from Love and Hip Hop until Jan 27 and it's Free! www.Skovutv.com

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Januar y 23, 2019

9

SUPPORT THE ARTS!

*Buffalo Center for Arts and Technology and WNY-Urban Arts Collective Present The Art of Music January 17, thru

Friday, February 1, 2019 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. BCAT, 1221 Main St, (716) 259-1680

Afrobeat Dance Workshop An

Afrobeat Dance Workshop with Kesi Akono (above) will be held at Miss Barbara’s School of Dance, 1832 Main Street, Sunday January 27, from 5 - 6:30p.m. For more information call 716-491-3311

Jazz & Music Lovers Cast Your Vote in the JazzBuffalo Poll!

The 5th Annual JazzBuffalo Poll is still open until Jan 31st and there are 35 categories consisting of nominees representing jazz artists, groups, venues, and supporters. This year the poll, recognizing the year of 2018, represents a significant milestone in its evolution with the area having a more available and significant increase in the diversity and variety of jazz in more Buffalo venues.

Some talented members of the community are up for nomination this year, like Will Holton, Drea d’Nur, Rishon Odel, and Van Taylor among others!

The winners of the 5th Annual JazzBuffalo Poll will be announced on February 13th at the Hotel Henry Jazz Concert Series.

The Jazz Series is set for Wednesday February 13 7 -10pm at Hotel Henry 444 Forest Avenue where the winners of the poll will be announced and will include a performance by the leading ambassador of Latin Jazz, Wendell Rivera, know for his an invigorating sound that incorporates Afro-Caribbean grooves with the free, melodic, and harmonic elements of progressive jazz.

In the category "John Hunt Jazz Artist of the Year," the poll will present the largest number of nominees since its inception that also offers audiences, readers of JazzBuffalo and the fans of jazz an opportunity to weigh in with their opinions on the top jazz musicians, groups, supporters and performances in Greater Buffalo.

Now is your time to vote for some of our favorite artists from the community until January 31st. Cast your ballots at: www.jazzbuffalo.org/jazzbuffalo-poll Jazz Series Tickets can be obtained on Eventbrite or go to jazzbuffalo.org events page for more info.

Native Son at the Paul Robeson Theatre Play runs Jan. 18-Feb. 10 ; Fridays & Saturdays 8 p.m.

Sunday matinee at 4 p.m. at the Paul Robeson Theatre 350 Masten Ave. directed by Paullette D. Harris and starring Buffalo native Alphonso Walker Jr. ; also, Augustus Donaldson Jr., Deborah A. Krygier, Janae’ Leonard, Madeline E. Allard, Debbi Davis, Jerai Kahdim, John Warzel and Shawn Patrick Greene.There will be audience talkback after the production on Sundays. For reservations call the theatre box office at (716) 884-2013 or pickup tickets and coupons online at www.aaccbuffalo.org For group rate information email paulroesontheatrebuffalo@gmail.com

Art Openings You Don’t Want To Miss Through The Lens: “Warriors” Opening January 25 6pm On view through February 23 CEPA Gallery 617 Main (Downtown Bflo) free & open to the public The Exhibit Highlights Survival Stories of Perseverance. Get Fokus’d Productions “fokuses” on everyday people and exposes the human condition and the extraordinary people who persevered and beat the odds. The show is presented by Get Fokused Founder & Award Winning Photographer Aitina FareedCooke who "fokuses" on 8 Warriors comprised in a collection of portraits, literature, and short videos of women and men within the Buffalo community and even outside the area in Montreal, who persevered through extraordinary challenges "Warriors" is the first of several exhibitions from Get Fokus’d Productions premiering this year. Go to @getfokusdproductions and thechallengernews.com to read the full story on this opening.

Black Quantum Futurism On The Edge of The Bush/A Long Walk Into The Unknown Opening January 25 7-9pm @ 7:30 Conversation between Camae Ayewa (aka Moor Mother) & Ineil Quaran On view through April 20 Tue.–Sat., 12–5pm Squeaky Wheel 717 Main (Downtown Bflo.) free and open to the public Join Squeaky Wheel for the opening reception of this futurist exhibition and conversation. Utilizing collage, video, text, and sound installations and poetry, this exhibition by Philadelphia-based Black Quantum Futurism consists of artists Camae Ayewa aka Moor Mother, and Rasheedah Phillips aka The Afrofuturist Affair who work in sound, video, collage draws from quantum physics, speculative fiction, and Black/Afro-diasporan cultural traditions of observing time and space. The works aim to break free into the unknown futures of past selves, and to honor the ritual casualties and philosophies of Black ancestry, culture, and spirit.

Go to www.squeakywheel.Org for more info or read full story on this opening at thechallengernews.com

TO ADVERTISE: advertising@thechallengernews.com

10

Generations

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Januar y 23,2019

AKA Think Tank : It’s an HBCU Event!

Nevaeh Dowell Young Miss Buffalo 2018

Young Miss Buffalo Pageant Seeking 2019 Participants The Young Miss Buffalo Pageant Scholarship & Enrichment Program is currently accepting applications for the 2019 Young Miss Buffalo Pageant. The mission of the pageant is to empower young ladies to reach beyond their own comfort zones through a process of healthy nurturing from the inside out.

For four months, 15-20 young ladies between the ages of 1317 will experience an enrichment program that includes personal development workshops, community service and activities that culminate into an annual pageant.

The pageant is open to any young lady who is: 13-17 years of age, A resident of the City of Buffalo and surrounding areas, and A student in middle or high school with a 75 or above average.

The deadline for applications is February 15, 2019. Applications should be submitted with a photocopy of most recent copy of report card.

For an application or more information about the pageant, go to www.ymbp.org to complete the online application or call 1-855-737-6222.

Nevaeh Dowell, 14, is the reigning Young Miss Buffalo 2018. She is a student at East Aurora High School and is the daughter of Robyn Morey and Damar Dowell.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Gamma Phi Omega Chapter has partnered with Strong Community Schools, and Say Yes of Buffalo to hold a HBCU Think Tank.

Students attending will learn about Historically Black Colleges and Universities. They will experience Step Shows and workshops. There will also be food and Giveaways.

HBCU alumni from Howard University, Grambling University, Spellman, and Morehouse will be present to share their experiences having attended a HBCU. Parents and students will have assistance with the Free application for Federal Student Aid(FAFSA).

The HBCU event will be Saturday, February 2, at L.J. Bennett Innovation School Technology ( previously known as Bennett High School), 2885 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14214, 8:30- 12 noon . Registration for the event is on Evenbrite. com.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated is an international service organization founded in 1908. It is now under the leadership of Glenda Glover, Ph.D. The international sorority has as its first emphasis Education—particularly HBCUs. Gamma Phi Omega Chapter, under its umbrella, will partner with local high schools to navigate the college application process, supporting and carrying out the AKA signature program # CAP (College Admission Process).

42nd Annual Carter G. Woodson Essay Contest Theme: “Black Migration/ Immigration of Families to WNY" The 42nd Annual Carter G. Woodson Essay Contest invites students in grades 4-12 to write an original essay on the topic, “Black Migration/ Immigration of Families to Western New York.”

Migration is defined as moving from one country or region to another with a view to residence (such as from the south to the north, from rural to city, etc.) Immigration is to come into a different country for permanent residence. The essay should answer the following questions: Where did the family live before coming to Western New York? Why did they leave? What year did they come? Who came? Why did they choose Western New York? What are some positive and negative things that have happened to the family in Western New York?

Would others be encouraged to move here?

The essay is limited to 200 WORDS OR LESS- TYPE WRITTEN. The essay will be judged on originality and content. Typed essays must be received by Saturday, February 9, 2019 at the Frank E. Merriweather, Jr. Branch Library, 1324 Jefferson Avenue or emailed to AAHANFWoodson@gmail.com Your name, address, telephone number, school and grade must be written on your entry.

Cash prizes will be awarded in three categories: Grades 4-6; Grades 7-9; Grades 10-12. First Prize $100, Second Prize $75, Third Prize $50. ONLY WINNERS WILL BE NOTIFIED OF THE AWARDS PROGRAM. Winning entries will be read by the participants at the African American History Program at the Frank E. Merriweather, Jr. Branch Library, 1324 Jefferson Avenue on Saturday, February 23, 2019 at 2p.m. They will also be printed in Historically Speaking, Spring 2019.

Sponsors: Afro- American Historical Association of Niagara Frontier, Buffalo & Erie County Public Library- Frank E. Merriweather, Jr. Branch, Buffalo Public Schools- Dept. of Social Studies, Zawadi Books, Juneteenth Festival of Buffalo and others to be announced.

SUPPORT FOR PROJECT MONA'S HOUSE:

Pictured (l-R) Legislator Barbara Miller-Williams, Kelly Galloway (Mona’s House Founder), Erie County Majority Leader April Baskin, and Legislator Lynne Dixon.

Legislature Approves Baskin Resolution Supporting Protection for Human Trafficking Shelters The Erie County Legislature unanimously passed a resolution at its legislative session on January 18, 2019 that supports state and other legislative action to protect the confidentiality of shelters for victims of human trafficking.

While laws have been enacted to provide protections to shelters for domestic violence victims, there are some gaps for domiciles in which human trafficking victims are temporarily living while they get assistance and heal.

The primary sponsor of the resolution was Legislator April N.M. Baskin. She said: “We already have safeguards in place to protect victims of domestic violence from their abusers. I think it is only right that we protect victims of illegal human trafficking in the same way. Human trafficking is a serious crime, and our local victims deserve the utmost privacy, security and safety as they heal.”

It is estimated that there are over 100 victims of human trafficking who currently live in Erie County. Given the heinous nature of these crimes, a lack of confidentiality can be a deterrent from reporting criminal activity in the first place. Local groups like Project Mona’s House work diligently to help provide rehabilitation to victims and to start them on the path to healing from the trauma of their previous situation.

“I am proud to stand behind the work our community groups do and help them however possible. It is in these partnerships that we build effective community safety nets to protect the most vulnerable members of our society,” Legislator Baskin added.

Michelle Obama’s “Becoming” Our Biggest Seller!

Topic of Next Merriweather Library Book Club Meeting

W

hat an end to 2018...

In November 2018 former FLOTUS, Michelle Obama published her memoir, Becoming. It became the best selling book of the year and sales continue to climb as it has energized readers across this country.

For Zawadi Books it has been our biggest seller. So we give a "Thank You" to Mrs.Obama for bringing the readers back. *Be About Beauty by Kalamu yaSalaam *Becoming Obama

by

Michelle

*Buffalo UNIA - ACL History Compiled by Buffalo UNIAACL Historical Society *The Burden: African Americans and the Enduring Impact of Slavery. Edited by Rochelle Riley

Paid Internships Available for Say Yes Scholars!

*Heavy: An American Memoir byKieseLaymun

The Say Yes Buffalo Internship and Career Pathways Program is a workforce development initiative that connects Buffalo students that are eligible for Say Yes with local employers through trainings, employer tours and site visits, job skills workshops and paid professional internship experiences.

Eligible students, known as Say Yes Buffalo Scholars, are identified as current full-time college students who lived in the city of Buffalo and graduated from a Buffalo public or charter school after 2013.

Paid internships are available now at sayyesbuffalo.org/intern and new opportunities are posted on a rolling basis. If you have questions about eligibility or would like to sign-up to receive the monthly newsletter for additional college programming, please contact Johanna Caplan at jcaplan@sayyestoeducation.org.

*My Mother, Barack Obama, Donald Trump and the Last Stand of the Angry White Man by Kevin Powell Reissued: If Beale Street Could Talk by James Baldwin Note: The Merriweather Library Book Club will be discussing Becoming by Michelle Obama on February 19th at 6 pm. All are welcome.

VOICES

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Januar y 23, 2019

WHO IS KAMALA HARRIS continued from page 4

opposed legislation that would have required her office to investigate police shootings.

When California was ordered to reduce prison overcrowding she argued against it. …In her memoir, These Truths We Hold: An American Journey, she says of mass incarceration, 'I wanted to tear it down,' but the facts say otherwise."

“One of her more disgraceful policies was to victim shame Black mothers for their children’s school truancy. They were fined and when most of them could not pay, were put in jail and separated from their children....Harris cannot be given a pass.” “…Harris has spent her career locking up Black and Brown people. She should not be allowed to shake hands, kiss babies or walk into Black churches without being taken to task.

We have seen this movie and we know how it ends. A Black candidate with all the right credentials makes the case for race pride but the people end up with nothing to show for their adoration.”

-The RaceHarris is the latest high-profile Democrat to declare her intention to run against President Donald Trump in 2020. Sens.

Elizabeth Warren (Mass.) and Kirsten Gillibrand (N.Y.), along with former Obama Cabinet member Julián Castro and Reps. John Delaney (Md.) and Tulsi Gabbard (Hawaii), are running as well.

The 2020 field is expected to get more crowded in the coming weeks, with Sens. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), as well as former Vice President Joe Biden, among the speculated entrants.

A recent NPR/PBS Newshour/Marist Poll found that a majority of Americans — 54 percent — have not yet formed an opinion of Harris. But those who have a positive opinion of the California Democrat outnumbered those with a negative opinion by more than 3 to 1.

(Compiled from various news sources)

SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES!

“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 Printed in Canada

The New Narrative: Buffalo Public Schools are Thriving!

A

fter many decades of sustained struggle, organizing and activism, there’s a “new narrative” for Buffalo Public Schools, as was proudly proclaimed by Superintendent Kriner Cash at a recent press conference held at the Performing Arts School. Dr. Cash declared over thunderous applause that the district is no longer failing, but thriving. The district now boasts smaller class sizes than ever before, 20 community schools, afterschool programming at every school, and an average graduation rate that has skyrocketed to over 68% in the last three years. It’s an amazing turnaround, one that is the culmination of seeds planted, relentless pressure and the passing of this struggle from one generation to the next. It’s the result of a confluence of factors that have finally gelled in due season, in response to the steadfast insistence that a quality education is every child’s right. This is indeed a time for celebration and congratulations. Even more… it’s a time for gratitude, acknowledgement and appreciation.

Buffalo – specifically Black Buffalo has a long history of fighting for equality in education, a fight that has produced giants and historic milestones. We owe a debt to those vigilant ones who rose up to demand parity – 20 years after the Supreme Court decided Brown vs. Topeka. We stand on the shoulders of the legendary Bill Gaiter and the BUILD organization, and in the shadow of the former BUILD Academy, an early example of excellence to be emulated. The most recent reviving of the spirit in this exhausting war of attrition was the challenge of Minister Louis Farrakhan at the historic 1995 Million Man March to take personal responsibility for the condition of our communities…of our homes, our health, our local economies, of the education of our children. By 2005, “Local Organizing Committees” had been formed nationwide to provide the structure for a “Millions More Movement.”

Buffalo chose the name “Buffalo Local Action Committee, (BLAC), and comprised participants from every sector of Dr. Kriner Cash our community. The Ministry of Education began to advocate in earnest for an end to sub-standard education in our city. We organized parents to join the already formed District Parent Coordinating Council (DPCC), in order to network with all of Buffalo’s parents on behalf of all of Buffalo’s children.

The journey was fraught with contention, as stakeholders guarded turf, and parents feared that a gain for one child meant a loss for another. Some saw access to a quality education as a social equalizer, moreover, a divine right. Others saw the denial of it as a weapon; strategic in the maintenance of an unequal status quo. Parents marshalled legal help to file complaints with the Justice Department, the Office of Civil Rights, formal appeals to Commissioners of Education to fight for funds, inclusion, fundamental respect as decision-makers for our children. We held rallies, protests and boycotts, entreating the board for partnership. Parents became engaged, and became a presence in the schools, at meetings and extracurricular functions.

This is the struggle that seeded the soil for the arrival of the current Superintendent, who has marveled at the unrivaled level of support for children that he’s found in Buffalo. We celebrate that only 3 schools remain in receivership, but we remember that parents’ agitation brought about this corrective action that empowered the Superintendent to glean unfit staff from those buildings. It was parents’ mass transfers of thousands of students from failing schools that placed the demand for capacity, that resulted in 10 new innovative schools. It was the ground shaking of parents that caught the attention of the “Say Yes” program, distinguishing Buffalo as a worthy place for investment of the program’s resources. It was this force, already in motion…that now intersects with the historic positioning of our long-time advocate, Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples as Majority Leader in the State Legislature, where she rumbles for resources on behalf of her “Beloved Buffalo.” We’re right in position to benefit from Governor Cuomo’s new Education Equity Formula, which will now stop the hoarding of funds meant for beleaguered schools by wealthier ones.

There are so many to acknowledge and thank for this “new narrative”… for what the Superintendent called “a splendid day...” “a blessed day.” The “Say Yes” Program, the Rev. Kinzer Pointer and the partners whose vision organized the DPCC, a young Sam Radford, initiated as a student activist at ECC and already poised in the early 1990’s to lead the charge, the attorneys who have worked with parents, those activists who passed the baton and now provide counsel.

We thank Superintendent Kriner Cash for competent leadership, for cooperation and not combat, and Mayor Byron Brown and the Board of Education for partnership. We thank every sincere teacher and administrator in whose hands we place our progeny; and have real love for those advocates of independent education holding a long-term vision and building an Ark. We thank this august community newspaper that throughout this journey has served as our modern-day talking drum. Most of all, we honor the parents who pushed back from the periphery, and found the courage to fight on, and our children who have endured the intolerable, in pursuit of all that’s possible. Stay woke fam. Forward ever… backward never!

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

P: 716 881.1051 F: 716 881.1053

11

Is County Moving Social Services Office To Cheektowaga?

Concern alert! By chance, I came upon an online article, "Downtown Block Threatened by County Move" (greaterbuffaloblogs. com) -- that stated the County is moving the Department of Social Services' employees ("437 jobs") -- from their easily accessible long-time home -- at Main and Mohawk KAT MASSEY..

Streets -- to the outthe-way Appletree Mall [Park], on Union Road, in Cheektowaga.

Point blank! The relocation may be of some inconvenience to employees - who will have to drive about 20 miles to Buffalo for court business. But, it will be a huge convenience disconnection for the many HEAP customers, who don't own cars, if they have to go to Cheektowaga. (William Street buses go there, but a Metro train option is non-existent.)

A suspicion might arise that the change of location may be the County's intention to deliver a financial benefit to the Mall that historically struggled and for Cheektowaga, at Buffalo's detriment.

(Currently, "$6,000,000" of rent revenue is afforded, over five years. The move to the Mall -- would deliver "$9,000,000" -- over the same period -- to an "out-of-state owner." ("The [new] lease was rubber stamped by the County Legislature.")

Sadly, it seems it's another "all about the Benjamin's" episode.

The Impact Of Continued Youth Funding

Dear Editor: Erie County has passed its 2019 county budget and it has given continued funding towards Youth Development Programs and Summer Primetime Programs. The increase to quality afterschool and summer activities ensures that there is less risk for safety and character being compromised during those time periods.

Understanding the neurodevelopmental impact of the body is helpful to those who want to make a connection to how legislation impacts the individual citizen- in this case child. Early adolescence and adolescent exposure to violence at home or in the media can have a negative effect on the nervous system and thus, cognition and behavior. External influences such as images, relationships, and habits influence the internal system such as your neurons, blood pressure, and metabolism. In addition, the meals and snacks received by children during these programs positively impacts a hormone which influences mood.

During childhood, the brain is actively developing and can only become as great as the external stimuli pushes it to be. If a child has been heavily exposed to violence in the home and in the media, we are likely to see violent behavior from the same child.

Low-income communities are more exposed to violence on a daily basis in the form of corporal punishment at home, homicides, gangs, and schools that are not able to provide adequate prevention and intervention for bullying.

Middle and upper class households are more likely to have their child(ren) involved in a concerted activity that contributes to a child’s development such as a piano or a dance class.

Low income households often have parents who raise their child with the natural growth concept. Natural growth child rearing typically means that the child has “long stretches of leisure time” because the parent is working multiple jobs to provide the necessities of the household and does not have the resources to keep their child engaged in a constructive activity.

The wealth in the United States is highly stratified, and those on the bottom, which are most often African Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans have lower access to higher pay-

dear editor

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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.

Continued Page 11

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12 sports At The Point

"All you have to do is run...!"

The Benefit From Running Goes Beyond Physical Exercise

R

unning is one of the most popular and practiced sports worldwide! According to report published by Statista, almost 60 million people participated in running, jogging and trail running in 2017.

For me personally, running is an excellent way to stay fit and it provides the necessary exercise needed to stay healthy, as I have recently entered into the 30 and over club. One thing that I never thought I would gain from running is insight. Yet, on one of my first runs of 2019 is where I gained the insight for this piece.

It was a brisk January Saturday morning and honestly, I would have enjoyed just staying in bed. The question that I asked myself that morning was “what is the cost of being inconsistent?” because believe it or not, there is a cost! As I answered my own question, I reluctantly got up and got appropriately dressed for the cold weather and long run I was about to partake. In my reluctance to go on this run, I noticed that I had created a mountain of mental barriers in which I had to overcome while in the midst of my run. I had seemingly convinced myself that I had chosen too long of a route and needed to cut it short that day. Not because I was not capable, but because I did not feel like it. I had also created the notion that my goals of increasing my distance and the frequency, which I do, was inappropriate for someone not competing in the sport professionally. All of these thoughts were circulating my mind like a whirlwind as I took each step, and each step seemed to get longer and longer. The weather seemed to grow increasingly colder and somehow, I seemed to have gotten so far from where I started, that I considered catching an Uber back! It was at this point that I literally stopped running and had to yell at myself.

“THERE IS NO TURNING BACK. ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS RUN!”

These words shot through my body like a lightning bolt! My soul was immediately pierced and out of nowhere, all doubt had been erased. I had seemingly intrinsically motivated myself by simply standing up to myself.

While finishing my run I thought, “How relevant was that experience?” The answer was and still is that it was extremely relevant. My goal and advice to those of you reading this year is to RUN. Do not doubt the plans that you have established for your life. Do not doubt the thoughts that have entered your psyche that you have hesitated to even write down. You have Odds2Beat, don’t allow yourself to be your only true obstacle. Once again, sports teaches us another great lesson in life and I am eternally grateful to have my own Odds2Beat! For your 2019, Bless Up!

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Januar y 23,2019

RADNEY/THE BILLS REPORT continued from page 2

LEGAL NOTICE BIDS

LEGAL NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE

the football. It’s a new ERA focusing on RPO run pass option.

It goes back to guys like Randall Cunningham, who could throw the ball whiling running (moving his feet) and completing passes. The owners did not like it and wanted the QB to throw from the pocket. And what happened Randall Cunningham? He was injured when an offensive lineman fell on his leg injuring his knee. Cunningham was performing very well and making outstanding plays outside of the pocket, but was forced to play his game inside of the pocket and the result was an early exit from professional football. Today’s QB’s like Dak Prescott, Tyrod Taylor, Sam Darnold, Russell Wilson, Josh Allen, Deshaun Watson, and Aaron Rogers just to name a few, are all current NFL QB’s that play better outside of pocket. Once again that old mentality of owners is the problem and not the QB’s. If these young QB’s are allowed to play their game, it’s going to make for more exciting watchable NFL games. We were reminded recently of old school QB’s with

COUNTY OF ERIE NOTICE TO BIDDERS AMSDELL ROAD CR122 CULVERT REPLACEMENT PROJ# FA-5762.23-19 PIN 5762.23 Department of Public Works, Division of Highways, seeking sealed bids for Bridge NY county culvert replacement construction project. Sealed proposals received at the DPW, 95 Franklin St, Rm 1400, Buffalo, NY by, and opened at, 10 am Thursday, January 31, 2019. Certified check as bid deposit in the amount of $29,000.00 required. Minority, Local & Disadvantaged Workforce goals, NYS Apprenticeship, and NYS MWBE goals required. Plans and additional bid submittal information on the Erie County website at: http://www2.erie. gov/dpw see On Line Bid Retrieval.

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING In the Matter of the Application of The Buffalo City Cemetery, Inc. d/b/a Forest Lawn Group For Consent to take land for Cemetery Purposes in the County of Erie through mergers NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Erie County Legislature will hold a Public Hearing on Thursday, February 21, 2019 at 6:00 PM in the Chambers of the Erie County Legislature, located on the 4th Floor of the Old County Hall, 92 Franklin St., Buffalo, NY. The purpose of the Public Hearing is to consider public testimony regarding (i) the proposed merger of the Oakwood Cemetery Association (“Oakwood”), consisting of what is commonly known as the “Oakwood Cemetery” located in the Village of East Aurora, with and into The Buffalo City Cemetery, Inc. d/b/a Forest Lawn Group (the “Forest Lawn Group ”) and (ii) the proposed merger of the Lancaster Rural Cemetery Association (“Lancaster Rural”), consisting of what is commonly known as the “Lancaster Rural Cemetery” located in the Town of Lancaster, with and into the Forest Lawn Group.

Any person interested in the above matters may be heard at said public hearing.

Following the Public Hearing, the Forest Lawn Group will make application at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Erie County Legislature, held in the Chambers of the Erie County Legislature, located on the 4th Floor of the Old County Hall, 92 Franklin St., in the City of Buffalo, New York, or any adjournment thereof, for consent to merge with Oakwood and Lancaster Rural.

Dated: Buffalo, New York, December 21, 2018

BY ORDER OF THE COUNTY LEGISLATURE OF THE COUNTY OF ERIE, NEW YORK.

By ROBERT M. GRABER, Clerk, Erie County Legislature

LETTER TO EDITOR continued

ing jobs and resources that would allow them to give their children a better environment.

When the Erie County legislators vote to continue funding for youth programming it ensures that children have access and opportunity to an environment that may be more structured and productive in their educational development.

Thanks to Erie County, there will be more resources available to provide quality activi-

ties in a safe environment that will decrease the likelihood of a negative neurodevelopmental impact on the children in this area.

-Veronica Golden, LMSW Board Member at the Erie County Youth Bureau

Tao Te Ching -43The gentlest thing in the world Overcomes the hardest thing in the world.

That which has no substance Enters where there is no space.

This shows the value of nonaction Teaching without words, Performing without actions: That is the Master’s way.

Tom Brady going up against Phillip Rivers in a matchup of pocket passers. These matchups are going to be fewer and far in between. The defenses are faster than the offenses and most of today’s star players are on the defensive side of the ball. The new rules to protect QB’s and cornerbacks not being able to bump wide receivers has opened up the league for more scoring, but when Super Bowls are won or lost is still dependent on defense unit.

LEGAL NOTICE RFP COUNTY OF ERIE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SEVICES 95 FRANKLIN STREET 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 a Job Readiness Program for Limited English Proficiency Customers. The RFP #1905VF 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 March 1, 2019.

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

Marie A. Cannon, Commissioner of Social Services

LEGAL NOTICE BIDS Buffalo City School District Request for Proposals Sealed proposals for the following project will be received at the office of Plant Services, 403 City Hall, Buffalo, NY 14202 on Friday, February 22, 2018 at 4:00 p.m. Proposals will be opened and reviewed for: Energy study/project to assist the District to become as energy efficient as possible through installation of energy conservation measures and implementation of optimal operation and maintenance procedures at 23 school buildings. The School District wishes to implement the proposed comprehensive energy project on an energy performance contract basis.

A mandatory pre-proposal conference will be held at School #307 East HS on Tuesday, January 29, 2019 at 9:00 a.m.; please assemble at the main entrance. Buffalo Public School staff will be present. Eligible proposers are required to attend this conference.

The work will be subject to the equal employment opportunity requirements. Proposals are available on request and at the New York State Contract Reporter website: http:// www.nyscr.ny.gov. Any questions regarding this project, please refer to Paul McDonnell, AIA at 716-7771760 or pmcdonnell@buffaloschools. org.

Paul McDonnell, AIA Director of Facilities Planning

LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE The Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority (“BMHA”) has made available copies of the BMHA 2019 Annual PHA Plan. Interested parties may review the Plan at the BMHA Administrative Offices located at 300 Perry St., Buffalo, NY, Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, at all BMHA Management Offices and at the BMHA website www.bmhahousing.com. These documents will be available for review until Wednesday March 13, 2019 at 3:00 pm.

Written comments should be sent to the attention of Gillian D. Brown, Executive Director, BMHA, 300 Perry St., Buffalo, NY 14204. The deadline for submitting comments is Wednesday March 13, 2019 at 3:00 pm.

A public hearing will be held at the BMHA Administrative Offices, 300 Perry St., Buffalo, NY on Thursday March 14, 2019 at 10:00 am.

LEGAL NOTICE RFP REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS TO PROVIDE DESIGN/ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR THE SHORELINE TRAIL REPAVING AND ENHANCEMENT PROJECT Notice is hereby given that the County of Erie is seeking proposals from Architectural, Planning, Engineering Consulting firms (consultant) to provide design, construction engineering and construction inspection services for the repair, repaving and enhancement of Erie County’s Shoreline Trail located in the Town and City of Tonawanda.

The request for proposals is available at www.erie.gov.

Proposals must be physically submitted to the below contact by February 8, 2019.

Thomas R. Hersey Jr., Commissioner Erie County Department of Environment and Planning 95 Franklin Street Room 1053 Buffalo, NY 14202

ROOMS FOR RENT ROOMS FOR RENT: Delavan-Humboldt area, Bailey-Delavan. $325$480. Everything included.

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Januar y 23, 2019

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS

COUNTY COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF ERIE ---------------------------------------------x ABS REO Trust III, Plaintiff, -against- Vickie Jeter, as Heir to the Estate of Gary Jeter a/k/a Gary Ernest Jeter, Joann Armstead, as Heir to the Estate of Gary Jeter a/k/a Gary Ernest Jeter, Belinda Boyd, as Heir to the Estate of Gary Jeter a/k/a Gary Ernest Jeter, Jacqueline Jeter-Whitted, as Heir to the Estate of Gary Jeter a/k/a Gary Ernest Jeter, Tracy Brown, as Heir to the Estate of Gary Jeter a/k/a Gary Ernest Jeter and Gary Jeter a/k/a Gary Ernest Jeter’s respective heirsat-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 who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise, any right, title or interest in the real property described in the complaint herein Williamsville Suburban, LLC, Erie County Department of Social Services, Erie County Probation Department, Parkside Medical Anesthesia Associates, PC, The People of the State of New York, Empire Portfolios, Inc., Precision Recovery Analytics, Inc. assignee in interest to GE Money Bank, LVNV Funding, LLC assignee of Sears, Capital One Bank (USA), NA, Asset Recovery Services, Inc. as assignee of Providian Bank, Arrow Financial Services, LLC, New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, United States of America, State of New York, Robin Clowers, Katherine Corchado, Defendants.

----------------------------------------------x Index No.: 600256/2018 Filed : 12/24/2018 SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Plaintiff designates Erie County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is situated.

TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT(S): 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 attorneys for the plaintiff within twenty (20) days after service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service; or within thirty (30) days after service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York; or within sixty (60) days if it is the United States of America. 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 captioned action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure $58,650.00 and interest, recorded in the office of the clerk of the County of Erie on November 25, 2002 in Liber 13032, Page 2152 covering premises known as 952 Kensington Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14215.

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.

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.

EMPLOYMENT

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. Dated: Bay Shore, New York November 30, 2018 Frenkel, Lambert, Weiss, Weisman & Gordon, LLP BY: Linda P. Manfredi Attorneys for Plaintiff 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, New York 11706 (631) 969-3100 Our File No.: 01-086441-F00

Nurse Practitioner Buffalo State, State University of New York, seeks candidates for the position of Nurse Practitioner.

For a full job description and to apply: Family Nurse Practitioner: http://jobs.buffalostate.edu/postings/3687 Women’s Health Practitioner: http://jobs.buffalostate.edu/postings/3686

Sharing My Secret For 2019!

LEGAL NOTICE BIDS INVITATION TO BID

Apple Blossom Apartments, Cheektowaga, NY Bids are due by 1/22/2019 2:00 PM Home Leasing Construction is soliciting final bid pricing for the New Construction of the Apple Blossom Apartments located at the DePaul Glenwell property 2224 & 2228 Old Union Road, Cheektowaga, NY 14227. The project consists of two new 45,500 sf 40-unit three story buildings and one 15-unit addition to an existing 15 unit building which will be renovated.

This project is Sales Tax Exempt and is not subject to Davis Bacon Prevailing Wage Rates.

Home Leasing Construction is actively seeking M/WBE and SDVOB certified participation. Home Leasing Construction (“HLC”) recognizes that the opportunity for the participation in a free enterprise system by persons or groups traditionally, socially, and economically disadvantaged is essential to obtain social and economic equality. As such, HLC acknowledges the need to promote participation by minority-owned and women-owned business enterprises (“M/WBE”) in contracts awarded as part of the Apple Blossom Apartment Project for DePaul. HLC further acknowledges the diverse community of the City of Buffalo, as reflected in its businesses and workforce labor. HLC strives to support business development and workforce diversification opportunities that the Apple Blossom Apartment Project may create, including the opportunity to encourage participation of these diverse individuals.

Accordingly, HLC fosters and promotes the participation of M/WBE’s and women and minority workforce in all subcontracts for this Project.

Please indicate any and all M/WBE and SDVOB participation when submitting.

Please email all bids to christophersi@homeleasing.net Project Schedule: Start December 2018 Finish November 2020 Plans and Specifications are available to download at Avalon Services at the designated Plan Room.

Please see the link below to acquire the plans for review. http://www.avalonroch-planroom. com/ Please review the provided scopes of work when preparing your bids for our review.

Addendum #1 and #2 have been issued with the set of bidding documents. Please review all information provided.

Home Leasing Services Chris Silverthorn 585.944.4876 email: christophersi@homeleasing. net

LEGAL NOTICE BID

NFTA Procurement Invitation to Bid

4852 - WORKPLACE SAFETY, INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANT Download Bids from www.nfta. com

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JOBS

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BETC 716-856-5627

www.workforcebuffalo.org

The BETC is here to help

with your job searching needs. We have free services to all jobseekers looking to find better paying work, an exciting new career, or wanting to upgrade skills to become more marketable.

in today’s marketplace.

The Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo is hiring:

Grant Writer/Administrator The Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo is a 501(C)(3) holding more than 800 different charitable funds, established by individuals, families, nonprofit organizations and businesses to benefit WNY.

Learn more at cfgb.org/careers

LEGALS LEGAL NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE Buffalo City School District Request for Proposals Professional Architectural & Engineering Services The Buffalo Public Schools Division of Plant Services and School Planning, 406 City Hall, Buffalo, NY 14202 is soliciting proposals for professional architectural and engineering services for Chimney Stack Reconstruction at Schools #3, #19, #206, and #307 to be received on Wednesday, February 20, 2019.

Beginning Friday, January 18, 2019, the RFP document may be obtained electronically by emailing Mel L. Alston, AIA, Associate Architect at malston@buffaloschools.org.

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LEGAL NOTICE BID COUNTY OF ERIE ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens 2017 Renovations to Houses 1, 4, 7, 10, 11 & 12 ECDPW Project No. NT-17-04 Separate sealed bids for: General Construction and Electrical Construction work for the above project will be received by the County’s Commissioner of Public Works in Rath County Office Building, 95 Franklin St, Suite 1400, Buffalo, NY 14202 until 10:30 AM EST on Tuesday February 12, 2019, at which time they will be opened and read aloud. MBE/WBE, Apprenticeship program, and Local & Disadvantaged Workforce requirements may apply to this project. Additional information must be found at: www.erie.gov/dpw

Buffalo State is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and committed to respect for diversity and individual differences.

Data Analyst for Institutional Research Buffalo State, State University of New York, seeks candidates for the position of Data Analyst for Institutional Research.

The Data Analyst reports to the Director for Institutional Research and is responsible for supporting the college by providing expert consultation and direct assistance in areas including data management, and statistical analyses. Will utilize banner, SUNY database systems, and secondary analytics platforms to analyze and interpret data and to help create visual analytic dashboards to be used by various members of campus. Assists with the planning, design, management and support of campus-wide data assessment tools and Data Warehouse (DW) initiatives. These responsibilities include: utilizing a business intelligence tool/ system implementation, planning and execution of projects and enhancements (lifecycle), and the management of day-to-day production system operations.

Required Qualifications: • Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate discipline; • Demonstrated experience working in a complex, deadline driven office environment, preferably in higher education. This experience should include the capture, analysis, and presentation of information in support of institutional research efforts, including the rapid creation of adhoc queries utilizing modern desktop database tools to further support executive inquiry. Background in exploring data using modern visualization tools such as Tableau a plus; • Practical working knowledge associated with the manipulation of massive data sets within a networked office environment using MS Access and/or SQL Server; • Knowledge of the Microsoft (MS) Office products and their integration with a variety of non-MS products; • Proficient background in the application and uses of statistical tools such as SPSS or SAS; • Proficient in MS Windows system basics and support functions; • Demonstrated ability to incorporate modern data visualization tools to a variety of analytic efforts highly desirable; • Strong oral and written communication skills; • Excellent interpersonal skills as well as the ability to maintain effective working relationships with personnel from all university strata.

Preferred Qualifications: • Master’s degree in mathematics, computer science, statistics, business, data analytics or other related field; • Computer programming and technical aptitude in both mainframe and client server technologies are desired; • Degree in related field that involves the application of advanced statistics; • Progressive work experience in higher education Institutional Research environment; • Experience with Business Intelligence programming languages, such as Tableau, R, SQL, Oracle, or other similar reporting tools; • Experience with data submissions to SUNY system or any education system working to support deadline; • Experience utilizing statistical analysis in developing simulations.

Qualified applicants may apply online at https://jobs.buffalostate.edu.

Buffalo State is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and committed to respect for diversity and individual differences.

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Januar y 23,2019

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happy new year!

2019 *1027 1590 *1928 5711 * 6502 1342 * 0907 3333*1971* 1931

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Januar y 23, 2019

Buffalo African Museum Grand Opening Features New Exhibit "Making of a Monument”

Wednesday January 23

Thursday January 31

Public Meeting Notice: Board of the Westminster Community Charter School 3:00 p.m. at M&T Bank, One M&T Plaza 19th Floor.

Yoga & Jembe Every Thursday at Juneteenth headquarters 1517 Genesee 5:30 p.m.

The Buffalo African Museum (BAAM) invites the community to attend the grand opening of the Black History Exhibit February 1 at 12 noon at the Downtown Library.

The organizations participating include: The Nash House, the Michigan Street Baptist Church, The Colored Musician Club, WUFO 96.5 FM Radio, Michigan Ave. YMCA, and the African American Cultural Center.

A brand new exhibit will be presented by the Buffalo African American Museum entitled, "The “Making Of A Monument" in Memory of Lt. Colonel Cravane Middlebrooks Givens, who was the Chairperson of the MLK, Jr. Trust Fund.

The completion of a Monument to Dr. King, here in Buffalo, is the second largest creative tribute to Dr. King in the world. This exhibit will display the true history of the monuments concept, the process and people that were responsible for the Bust in Martin Luther King Park and the Martin Luther King, Jr. annual programs that perpetuated the memory of Dr. King in Buffalo for nearly 20 years.

Please come to the downtown Library during the month of February and view these displays. Ask questions, take pictures, and share the information you receive with others. All of us involved in this thank you for your support and want to see you there.

The hours are the same as the Library. Remember the Buffalo African American Museum Theme: "He who does know - can know from learning. We are never too old to learn." For more info, email Clifford Bell, Chairman of BAAM, at brothercbell@yahoo.com, or call 716 884-4333.

Dorie Miller Rifle Club, Guest Speaker Ted Kirkland, On his book, Spirit and Soul: Merriweather Library 6-8 p.m. Free!

SEE YOU AT THE EVENTS!

“Dance is for everybody…”

-Alvin Ailey

On Going Community Dance Classes MONDAYS Hustle for Health Urban Line Dancing with Phyllis Caver at Gloria Parks: 3242 Main St. 12 noon – 1p.m.; FREE for ages 55+ 832 -1010 DJ Dave Urban Line Dancing, Martha Mitchell Center, 175 Oakmont, 5:307:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAYS Hustle for Health Urban Line Dancing with Phyllis Caver at Gloria Parks: 3242 Main St. 11 a.m. - 12 noon.

FREE for ages 55+ 832 -1010 Urban Line Dance Classes: St. Phillips, 15 Fernhill ; 6-8 p.m.; Cheri & Darel 200-9702.

DJ Dave Urban Line Dancing, Baptist Manor, 276 Linwood. 5:30-7:30 p.m.

THURSDAYS Line Dance Classes with Willa Jackson, Instructor, 10:30 -11:30 a.m.

Schiller Park Senior Center, 2057 Genesee st. 895-2727.

FRIDAYS Beginners/Intermediate Line Dance Classes Every Friday 6pm Bethel AME Church Hall 1525 Michigan @ E.Ferry Ernestine, Instructor Chicago Steppin’: Every Friday 7-8:30 p.m. Pratt Center 422 Pratt St. SATURDAYS Mike's Smooth Urban Ballroom Dance Classes: 11 to 1 PM, Saturdays, Delavan-Grider Community Center, 877 E. Delavan Ave. 716-380-5100 class is $5 DJ Dave Urban Line Dancing, Baptist Manor, 276 Linwood.10a.m.-12 noon.

BLACK HISTORY continued Norman, who became a great African-American diva in the late 20th century, said in an interview.

Nicknamed “the Black Patti” for publicity purposes — a comparison to the White diva Adelina Patti which she did not care for

Vendors Needed for Niagara Falls Black Expo 2019 Vendors are needed for the Black Expo 2019 Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center, 825 Depot Ave in Niagara Falls Feb. 24 1-5pm. Vendor fee only $20.

Contact Felicia Johnson 716 986-9199 ext 5333 to secure your spot!

3rd Annual Alabaster Box Servicing the Homeless Saturday January 26 1-5pm Free Haircuts, Manicures Clothing Food and Prayer Buffalo Public Library 1 Lafayette Square To Make Donations you can drop off items (clothing toiletries, for men and women and children) at 527 Utica between 11am -6pm until Jan 25th go to @shopblackmonarchy on IG or online at thechalengernews. com faith&family section for more details.

The Durham Central City Baby Café . Info and support for pregnant and breastfeeding moms 5:30 – 7:30 pm 200 Eagle St (716)427-0566.

Thursday January 24 Yoga & Jembe Every Thursday at Juneteenth headquarters 1517 Genesee 5:30 p.m.

The Durham Central City Baby Café . Info and support for pregnant and breastfeeding moms 5:30 – 7:30 pm 200 Eagle St (716)427-0566.

Saturday January 26 3rd Annual Alabaster Box Servicing the Homeless:15pm. Free haircuts, manicures clothing food and prayer, Buffalo Public Library 1 Lafayette Square.

Straight Talk Small Business Education Training, Counseling, Networking: 8a.m.-1 p.m., Buffalo Niagara Convention Center; register at www.

WNYStraightTalk.org The Johnny B. Wiley Sports Pavilion, “Remembering Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.” Program: 100 Jefferson at Best St., 3-6 p.m.

Sunday January 27 Afrobeat Dance Workshop with Kesi Akono: Ms Barbara’s School of Dance, 1832 Main Street5pm - 6:30pm. For further information call 716-491-3311.

Tuesday January 29 Sankofa Circle Documentary Series: 6-8 p.m. Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson, 8834418. FREE ADMISSION, “MARTIN L. KING FROM MONTGIOERY TO MEMPHIS” PART 2.

Wednesday January 30 The Durham Central City Baby Café . Info and support for pregnant and breastfeeding moms 5:30 – 7:30 pm 200 Eagle St (716)427-0566.

Thursday January 31 BEVERLY GRAY BUSINESS EXCHANGE. SPECIALNIGHT: 334 east Utia Street, 5-8 p.., community invited; wwwbeverlygraycenter.com or Beverlygraycenter@nextstreetcom

The Durham Central City Baby Café . Info and support for pregnant and breastfeeding moms 5:30 – 7:30 pm 200 Eagle St (716)427-0566.

SEE YOU AT THE EVENTS!

16

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •Januar y 23,2019

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