Challenger Community News April 15, 2015

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CHALLENGER

SERVING BUFFALO, ROCHESTER, NIAGARA FALLS AND SURROUNDING AREAS

| F R E E | April 15-22, 2015

Avery Roper

Craig Herndon-Hill

Darrell Lane

Dylan Grayson

Mark Myles

Niegel Jacobs

Tanner Smith

Terius Wheatley

Tyrone Wheatley Jr.

Ulysses Rodgers

“Saving Our Girls”: Buffalo and Rochester to Host National Address by Minister

Louis Farrakhan PG.3

It’s a “Ballin for a Cause” Weekend! PG.11

2015 Jack & Jill of America Beautillion Presents

11 Young Men of Distinction!

PG. 12

Xavier Kyle

ENTERTAINMENT

Youth You Need to Know About… PG. 2

Cops, Lies & Video Proof… PG. 14

“Drea d’Nur Unplugged”

PG. 10


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INSIDE ROCHESTER “ROCHESTER’S BEST KEPT SECRET” (Youth You Need To Know About)

By Robert Harris - Youth Prison Prevention Project

Morghann Simms

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s. Morghann Simms, a senior at Buffalo State College, attended Rochester’s School of the Arts. Morghann’s high school major was Theater. She also played Varsity Basketball, Varsity Tennis, and was an Honors Student. Currently Morghann is a Social Work Major at Buffalo State College. She is a member of the Omega Phi Chi Sorority and the Student Social Work Organization. Morghann is also Resident Morghann Simms Assistant at Tower Two Dormitory, Student Ambassador for the Equity and Diversity Department, and an Equal Opportunity Program Tutor; all while holding a 3.7 GPA (Dean’s List). Ms. Simms grew up in a poverty stricken urban environment in Rochester, .N.Y which was hard for a young Black female. With the help, guidance, and support of her mother and father, Valorie and Samuel Simms, and her grandmother Sallye Ziegler, Morghann defied all odds against her. By focusing on her education and school-based extracurricular activities, she was able to overcome major distractions that plague our youth and send them down the wrong path. The message that Morghann would like to give to the youth is: “Always be true to self - your positive self. Be open to change and stick to your passions and positive goals in life. Be a better person today than you were yesterday – smile and laugh!” This writer would like to commend the parents and grandmother of this awesome young lady. It really does take two parents and an entire village to raise a child. I hope the people reading this article take this to heart and help any youth or young adult that you see struggling in any way, shape, or form.

Challenger Community News • April 15, 2015

Rochester Fast Food Workers Strike to End Poverty Wages for All Rochester, NY – After voting in favor of striking to win $15 and the right to form a union without retaliation, fast food workers in Rochester, NY will take a stand against poverty wages once and for all and walk off their jobs today (April 15th) in the Fight For $15’s largest mobilization of underpaid workers ever. This event will mirror marches and rallies in over 200 cities across the nation, along with strikes and actions in as many as 40 countries on six continents. In Rochester, these workers will be joined by hundreds of other low wage workers, church groups, unions, students, and community groups marching down Mt. Hope Avenue demanding higher wages to boost the economy and provide economic justice in our communities. This strike comes just weeks after McDonald’s announced its strategic plan to improve its public image by providing small raises to only 10% of their workforce.

Jobs First program at RTS, Provides Free Transportation to and From Interviews Jobs First: https://www.myrts.com/Wyoming/Enjoy-the-RideGuide/Commuter-Resources We know how challenging it can be to find a job, so we offer a helping hand. With the RTS “Jobs First” program, we offer a free, round-trip bus ride to anyone in the community who is unemployed and needs transportation to an interview. If you need a ride, call RTS Customer Service at 585-288-1700 to find out about eligibility requirements. Just give us your interview details and we’ll send out passes for a free round trip on any RTS bus if you qualify...it’s that simple! For more information, call 585-288-1700 or email Monroe@myRTS.com.

See You At The Events!

*FILM: Dance with the Wodaabes

Fri., Apr. 17, 7 p.m. In the heart of the Nigerien Sahel (Azawak region), far from any urban center, thousands of Fulbe Wodaabe nomads come together every year to celebrate their cultural identity in a vast ceremonial gathering named the Daddo. For seven days and seven nights, opposing ancestral lineages take part in a complex ritual courtship competition called the Geerewol.

*Last Friday Jazz: Live Music with Culture Clash

Fri., Apr. 24, 7 pm. Hosted by Dr. Carl Atkins, Professor of Music at RIT, the Last Friday Jazz Heritage Series will present fine performances of Jazz and provide audiences with the opportunity to engage in a dialogue on its history, sociology and psychology in the United States and throughout the world.

Around Town *Geva Theatre Center presents The Mountaintop – a soul-stirring reimagining of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s last night on earth by playwright Katori Hall, directed by Skip Greer, on stage now thru April 26 in the Elaine P. Wilson Mainstage . For tickets call (585) 232-4382 or go to www.gevatheatre.org *”What’s Going On” An Anthology; the Music of Marvin Gaye live; 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 22, Hochstein Performance Hall, 50 N. Plymouth Ave.,Tickets at all Wegman’s locations; for info (585) 723-3334. *THROWDOWN AT THE ARMORY Live Professional Boxing, 900 Walker Street, April 18, 7 p.m.; tickets (585)330-0273 or visit www.prettygirlpromo.com *Rochester Board of Education Highlights Thursday, April 16: Special Meeting at 6 p.m.. The Board Governance and Policy Committee meetings have been cancelled. The calendar is posted on the home page of the District website at: www.rcsdk12.org/ calendar.

*19th Ward Spelling Bee Annual Competition, April 18, competition involving students from Rochester schools 10, 16, 19, 29, and 44, will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, the Hubbell Auditorium in Hutchison Hall at the University of Rochester. *“Saving Our Girls: A Nation Can Rise No Higher Than Its Women” A keynote address by the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan, Saturday, April 18, live via Webcast, hosted by the Muhammad Study Group of Rochester, at Inner Faith Gospel Tabernacle, 32 York Street. Doors open at 9 a.m. program starts at 10 a.m. To RSVP call (585) 364-9041 or email Barakahm@hotmail. com (See more information Page 3)

*New Classes at Genesee Center for the Arts & Education Spring Session begins April 21: Classes, workshops, in photography, ceramics, printing and book arts. A full listing of new classes offered for adults and children is available at www. geneseearts.org.All classes at 713 Monroe Ave. unless otherwise stated.


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Challenger Community News • April 15, 2015

AREA BRIEFS Willie A. Price to Seek Niagara Falls Council Seat LaSalle resident Willie A. Price has announced that he is running for the Niagara Falls City Council “for a better Niagara Falls.” An entrepreneur and author, he has two decades of private sector experience. He is a graduate of the State University at Buffalo and a member of the Western Price New York Real Estate Investors and the Niagara Falls Tourism Advisory Board. He is married to Niagara Falls resident Summer Chapman-Price and has been nationally recognized for his commitment to youth programs. Price will seek the Republican, Conservative and Independence lines in the November election.

Newsmakers

Outstanding Citizens

Three community members were named among the Buffalo News 2014 Outstanding Citizens: Educator Gregory D. Mott, principal of the Grabiarz School of Excellence; Murry Holman, executive director of the Stop the Violence Coalition; and Phebian Abdulai, a courageous Sierra Leone native and nurse at the Jericho Road who returned to her country to work at the Adama Martha Memorial Community Health Center.

To Be Honored

Steve C. Finch, General Motors Co. Tonawanda Engine Plant manager, will received the Inclusion Award during the Leadership Buffalo 12th Annual Values Awards Luncheon on May 7 at the Hyatt Regency Buffalo.

Named

Keith R. McGriff was named vice president of residential services at GatewayLongview. He holds a master’s and a doctorate from St. John Fisher college.

Community Meetings To Deal With Selection Process for Deputy Superintendent and Next Superintendent of the Buffalo Public Schools Parents, community stakeholders and students are invited to share questions, comments and ideas regarding the selection process for the deputy superintendent and the next superintendent of the Buffalo Public Schools. All concerned parties are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to participate and have their voices heard! The meetings will take place on: *Thursday, April 16 Makowski Early Childhood Center, 1095 Jefferson at 6 p.m. *Saturday, April 18, East High School, 820 Northampton Street, 8:30 a.m. Sponsored by the BPTO The meetings will be hosted by School Board members Ms. Sharon Belton Cottman; Dr. Theresa Harris-Tigg, Mrs. Mary Ruth Kapsiak, and Dr. Barbara Seals Nevergold.

Saving Our Girls: “A Nation Can Rise No Higher Than Its Woman” Willie Lou “MaDear” Hunt

Long time Buffalo Resident Passes at 105 Years of Age Willie Lou “MaDear” Hunt transitioned on April 1, 2015 at the St. John Baptist/Hospice Buffalo Inpatient Unit. Ms. Hunt was born November 3, 1909 in Grant, Alabama and moved to Buffalo/ Niagara Falls in 1946. She has been a Buffalo resident for 69 years and was the proud aunt, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great, great grandmother of six generations of the Hunt, Bittles, Ware (Niagara Falls), Franklin, Huston, McDougal and Sudduth families. Ms. Hunt gave of her time and resources unselfishly and assisted hundreds of friends and families in the Fruit Belt and all over the City of Buffalo and WNY. She served faithfully as a Jehovah’s Witness since 1947 and continued her service as a missionary worker until late into her nineties. On any given day you would find Ms. Hunt in her St. John Tower apartment studying her Bible or on the telephone witnessing to the community. MaDear we will miss you!

Buffalo and Rochester to Host National Address by Minister Lois Farrakhan The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan will deliver a special keynote address to the nation’s women and girls in both Buffalo and Rochester during a free live Webcast. “Saving Our Girls: A Nation Can Rise No Higher Than Its Women,” will be presented on Saturday April 18 in both cities and nationwide. “The goal of this event is to motivate, inspire, uplift and empower young women and girls in our communities and equip them to face today’s challenges,” writes sister Sandy Muhammad in The Final Call. “This will help us to build a better future for ourselves, our families, our communities, and our nation. Once we save our girls, we can save our world.” The event, billed as the “perfect field trip for students, youth organizations and churches,” will take place in Buffalo at the Pratt Community Center, 42 Pratt Street. Doors open at 10 a.m. and the program starts at 10:30 a.m. Brunch will be served. For more information call (716) 2485834 or (770) 256-3271. In Rochester the program, hosted by the Muhammad Study Group of Rochester, will take place at Inner Faith Gospel Tabernacle, 32 York Street. To RSVP call (585) 364-9041 or email Barakahm@hotmail.com Our Most Valuable Resource “The time has come to address the condition of Black women in our communities. Black women and girls are our nation’s most valuable resource and should be respected and protected. However, instead of flourishing in our communities, many Black women are leading single family households. Black women have the highest rate of HIV among all women and are most at risk to die from breast cancer. We are suffering from violence in the streets, and Black girls are being abused every Minister Farrakhan day. Our girls are six times more likely to be expelled from school; we have one of the fastest growing imprisonment rates in America, and many of us are living below poverty. What has happened to our women and girls? We must take action now to save our girls,” continues Sister Muhammad. “The present condition of the Black community reflects the need for the female to become acquainted with her limitless and immeasurable value so that she can realize her true potential and rise to her proper place as the mother of civilization. It is particularly important that this knowledge is instilled in the minds of Black youth who are the future of our world. What we instill in them today will determine the strength of our community tomorrow. When you teach a woman, you teach a nation. We all must be made to know that Black lives matter!”

ARE YOU REGISTERED TO Salvation Army Golden Age Center to Host Spring Fling Gala The Salvation Army Golden Age Center will host a Spring Fling Gala on Friday, April 17 at 960 Main Street from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The event will include a hot breakfast, Bingo with VOTE? prizes, hot lunch, nail and face makeovers and the musical guest will be the Charles Reedy Band. Have a day full day of fun! For more information and tickets call 888-6261.

IMHOTEP The True “Father Of Medicine

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mhotep, called “God of Medicine,” and “Prince of Peace,” was worshipped as a god and healer from approximately 2850 B.C. to 525 B.C., and as a full deity from 525 B.C. to 550 A.D. Even kings and queens bowed at his throne. Imhotep lived during the Third Dynasty at the court of King Zoser. Imhotep was a known scribe, chief lector, priest, architect, astronomer and magician (medicine and magic were used together.) For 3000 years he was worshipped as a god in Greece and Rome. Early Christians worshipped him as the “Prince of Peace.” Imhotep was also a poet and philosopher. He urged contentment and preached cheerfulness. His proverbs contained a “philosophy of life.” Imhotep coined the saying “Eat, drink and be merry for tomorrow we shall die.” When the Egyptians crossed the Mediterranean, becoming the foundation of the Greek culture, Imhotep’s teachings were absorbed there. Yet, as the Greeks were determined to assert that they were the Continued Page 5


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LOCAL + NATIONAL + WORLD

Sean Bell Parents Want Cuomo To Okay Special Prosecutor In Police Killings In the wake of the killing of a 50- year-old Black man shot in the back 8 times by a White police officer in Charleston, S. Carolina, motivational speaker and author, Iyanla Vanzant, joined family members of police shooting victims to discuss the rampant spree of police brutality in Black communities. Parents of a victim in a notorious New York case called for Governor Andrew Cuomo to appoint a permanent special prosecutor who would handle deaths at the hand of police. The panel, which took place at the Rev. Al Sharpton’s National Action Network’s annual convention last week in Midtown, included: Esaw Garner, the The parents of Sean Bell. wife of Eric Garner; Valerie and William Bell, the parents of Sean Bell; Nicole Pautre Bell, the widow of Sean Bell; Lesley McSpadden, the mother of Michael Brown; and, Samaria Rice, the mother of Tamir Rice. The panel addressed the alarming swell in police shootings linking White cops to the unprovoked killings of unarmed Black men. “It makes no sense, according to what our core notions of humanity and decency and justice are,” Mayor Bill De Blasio said of the recent shootings. Sharpton, who introduced the panel, said in the wake of the shooting death of Walter Scott, the 50-year-old man murdered by the police in Charleston: “When I heard Saturday what happened . . . and then saw the video, I immediately thought of these families,” referring to the family members on the panel. The shooting death of Scott brought back painful emotions to the families on the panel who lost loved ones to police shootings, including Esaw Garner, whose husband, Eric Garner, died last July from a police chokehold. “Sometimes I just feel so lost,” she said while being comforted by moderator, Iyanla Vanzant and Leslie McSpadden. “It’s been nine months and I haven’t been able to shake it. I don’t mean to break down in front of all of you guys. I get so much support from strangers and I never knew that strangers can show so much love and compassion for someone that they don’t even know. I just feel so alone and my son came home from college last night and I was watching the news and they showed a small clipping of hisvideo and I stared crying.” Other family members on the panel shared both her grief and her pain. “We’re in a war here,” added Samaria Rice, the mother of 12-year-old, Tamir Rice, shot by police for carrying a toy gun. “And I just want to continue to fight and to bring awareness of police brutality.” The mother of Michael Brown, the unarmed Missouri teen shot down by a White cop in August, said she’s also concerned for her three other children. “It’s scary to live in a city where you’re less than 5 miles away from where the incident happened and no one shows you any respect,” she said. The parents of Sean Bell, the 23-year-old man who died in the hail of 50 bullets on his wedding day, vowed to continue their crusade for the memory of their son as they looked for support to get Governor Cuomo to sign an executive order mandating special prosecutors for police shootings. “We pray and hope that killings are not going to happen again. But the way things are going on, it’s always happening,” said Valerie Bell.

National Conference on Black Community Control of Police The Black Is Back Coalition for Social Justice, Peace and Reparations will hold a National Conference on Black Community Control of Police on Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19, at the Janan Academy, at 3625 North Garrison Avenue, in St. Louis, Missouri. For more information and to register for the conference, go to the Black Is Back Coalitionwebsite, BlackIsBackCoalition.org

Fossil In Ethiopia Likely Oldest Ever Found In Human Line Scientists working in Ethiopia say they’ve found the earliest known fossil on the ancestral line that led to humans. It’s part of a lower jaw with several teeth, and it’s about 2.8 million years old. Anthropologists say the fossil fills an important gap in the record of human evolution. Several dating methods confirmed its age as roughly 400,000 years older than the previous record for a human-related fossil.

“Black Lives Matter” Resonates in Johannesburg, S.A. South African labor and social activists marched on the American embassy in Johannesburg in solidarity with the U.S.-based Black Lives Matter mobilization. United Front organizer John Manana said South African Blacks are all too familiar with police brutality. “Our protesters everywhere in South Africa continue to suffer the same way from the capitalist regime.” Police killed 34 striking miners at Marikana in the summer of 2012, accelerating a split between leftists and the ruling African National Congress regime. -BlackAgendaReport

Richmond Joins Lipsitz & Ponterio Lipsitz & Ponterio, LLC, is pleased to announce that John E. Richmond has joined the firm as an associate attorney. Mr. Richmond will focus his practice on representing individuals suffering from occupational diseases, including mesothelioma and lung cancer. Prior to joining Lipsitz & Ponterio, LLC, Mr. Richmond served as an associate attorney at a New York City asbestos litigation law firm where he gained valuable experience in asbestos and toxic tort litigation as trial counsel for workers and their families suffering from mesothelioma and other cancers. Mr. Richmond was born and raised in Rochester, New York. He received his J.D from Seton Hall University School of Law, and he received his B.A. from Miami University.

Challenger Community News • April 15, 2015


Health Matters

Challenger Community News • April 15, 2015

DID YOU KNOW....

According to the U.S. Deptment of Health and Human Services, today, African-Americans have the highest mortality rate of any racial and ethnic group for cancer generally and for most major cancers individually and African-Americans, Latinos, and American Indians are all more likely to have diabetes.

FLAXSEED STUDY

Healthy, postmenopausal women, not currently taking hormones, needed to volunteer for a study of diet and hormones being conducted by the Department of Cancer Prevention and Control at Roswell Park Cancer Institute. Participants will be asked to provide blood, urine, and bowel movement samples four (4) times during five (5) months, complete questionnaires, and eat a small amount of flaxseed (a commonly available food supplement) every day for six (6) weeks along with their usual diet. For more information, call 845-1177 or 845-1650. legal SUMMONS INDEX NO. 810090/2014 SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF ERIE Date Filed: 9/3/2014 Plaintiff designates Erie County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is situated. MidFirst Bank, Plaintiff, -against- Acea M. Mosey, Erie County Public Administrator, as Administrator for the Estate of Deborah A. Scott, Gerard Scott, as Heir to the Estate of Deborah A. Scott, Buffalo Neighborhood Revitalization Corporation, Evans National Leasing, Inc., Dean Tybor a/k/a Licensed Dependable Construction, Inc., Erie County Department of Social Services, Asset Acceptance LLC aao Sprint/PCS, Ebonee Rice, United States of America, New York State Department of Taxation and Finance and "JOHN DOE #1" through "JOHN DOE #10", the last ten names being fictitious and unknown to the plaintiff, the person or parties intended being the persons or parties, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the mortgaged premises described in the Complaint,, Defendants. 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 foreclosure a Mortgage to secure $127,700.00 and interest, recorded in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Erie on April 27, 2000 in 12879, Page 5409, covering premises known as 297 Pratt Street, Buffalo, NY 14204. 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. 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: September 3, 2014 By: Todd Falasco Frenkel, Lambert, Weiss, Weisman & Gordon, LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, New York 11706 (631) 969-3100 Our File No.: 01-068477-F00

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Cancer PreventionTips “More than half of all cancer deaths could be prevented by making healthy choices like not smoking, staying at a healthy weight, eating right, keeping active, and getting recommended screening tests.” This quote is taken directly from the American Cancer Society, and it should be eyeopening and empowering if you’re not yet aware that cancer prevention starts, first and foremost, with you and, as the featured article explains, your home. 1. Optimize Your Vitamin D3 2. Avoid Eating Excess Protein Most of us eat far too much protein. Consider reducing your protein levels to one gram per kilogram of lean body weight unless you are in competitive athletics or are pregnant. Excessive protein intake can have a great impact on cancer growth.Further, when you reduce protein you need to replace it with other calories, specifically high-

IMHOTEP continued

originators of everything, Imhotep was forgotten for thousands of years and a legendary figure, Hippocrates, who came 2000 years after him became known as the Father of Medicine. It is Imhotep says Sir William Osler, who was the real Father of Medicine. “The first figure of a physician to stand out clearly from the mists of antiquity.” Imhotep diagnosed and treated over 200 diseases, 15 diseases of the abdomen, 11 of the bladder, 10 of the rectum, 29 of the eyes, and 18 of the skin, hair, nails and tongue. Imhotep treated tuberculosis, gallstones, appendicitis, gout and arthritis. He also performed surgery and practiced some denistry. Imhotep extracted medicine from plants. He also knew the position and function of the vital organs and circulation of the blood system. The Encyclopedia Britannica says, “The evidence afforded by Egyptian and Greek texts support the view that Imhotep’s reputation was very respected in early times...His prestige increased with the lapse of centuries and his temples in Greek times were the centers of medical teachings.” From:Historical Personalities & Issues,Compiled & Edited by Phillip True, Jr.

quality fats such as avocados, butter, coconut oil, olives, olive oil, nuts and eggs. 3. Eat Living Foods with Amazing Health Benefits Sprouts are a “super” food that many overlook. In addition to their nutritional profile, sprouts are also easy to grow on your own. Among other benefits: Sprouts can contain up to 100 times more enzymes than raw fruits and vegetables, allowing your body to extract more vitamins, minerals, amino acids and essential fats from the foods you ea.t 4. Simplify Your Cleaning Supplies My top list of cancer preven-

tion strategies has always included reducing your exposure to environmental toxins like household chemical cleaners. Alternatives: Use baking soda mixed with apple cider vinegar to clean drains and bathtubs, or sprinkle baking soda along with a few drops of lavender oil or tea tree oil (which have antibacterial qualities) as a simple scrub for your bathroom or kitchen. •Vinegar can be used to clean almost anything in your home. Try it mixed with liquid castile soap, essential oils and water to clean floors, windows, bathrooms and kitch-

ens. It can even be used as a natural fabric softener. •Hydrogen peroxide is safer to use than chlorine bleach for disinfecting and whitening. •Vodka is a disinfectant that can remove red wine stains, kill wasps and bees and refresh upholstery (put it into a mister and simply spray on the fabric). 5. Use Greener Beauty Products: When cleaning up your lifestyle you may be tempted to start with your diet (which is a good place to start), but your personal care products are also important to address. Putting chemicals on your skin is actually far worse than ingesting them. 6. Ditch Your Non-Stick Continued Page 13


6 Events Planned

April is Fair Housing Month Each April, the Erie County Fair Housing Partnership, Inc. (ECFHP) commemorates the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, and the fight to provide equal access to housing for all through the celebration of National Fair Housing Month. Discrimination continues to limit housing choice for Buffalo residents from all walks of life each year. According to Andrea Mujahid-Moore, a member of the Erie County Fair Housing Partnership, “We think this doesn’t happen here….. but it does. It does happen here.” Under Federal and State law, it is illegal to discriminate in the sale, rental and advertising of housing based upon race, color, national origin, religion, age, gender, disability, marital status, family status, military status or sexual orientation. Within the City of Buffalo discrimination based upon lawful source of income, and gender identify and expression is also prohibited. The towns of Hamburg and West Seneca also prohibit source of income discrimination. The recognition of Fair Housing Month reinforces an awareness of the barriers that inhibit the ability of entire segments of our society to freely access the housing of their choice. To raise public awareness about the persistence and prevalence of housing discrimination, and to inform people of their rights under fair housing law, the Erie County Fair Housing Partnership and its membership are promoting a series of activities. This year’s Fair Housing Month events include: *A CASH Financial Literacy Workshop (for Adults & Kids) April 16, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. West Side Community Services, 161 Vermont Street; 884-6616. *First Niagara Housing Fair, April 22, from 5 - 7p.m. Larkin Building, 726 Exchange Street. *”Credit Cards” CASH Financial Literacy Workshop (for Adults & Kids) April 23 at 5 p.m.West Side Community Services 161 Vermont Street. For more information,884-6616. *Conference: “Living in the Community: Changes & Continuing Challenges” April 29 & April 30 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Harriman Hall 105 UB South Campus Free registration by April 24, is required ; abmarcum@buffalo.edu *Housing Opportunities Made Equal (HOME) Outreach April 29 from 5- 7 p.m. Friends of Night People 384 Hudson St. For more information, contact Alyssa Bergsten at 854-140

Challenger Community News • April 15, 2015

Rev. George Nicholas to Keynote HOME Celebration

Reverend George Nicholas, Senior Pastor of Lincoln Memorial United Methodist Church, will be the distinguished guest speaker at Housing Opportunities Made Equal, Inc. (HOME) 52nd Anniversary Celebration on Thursday, April 23. The event will take place at the Greenhouse Room at the Lafayette Hotel beginning at at 5 p.m. with an open bar cocktail hour, followed by the dinner and program at 6:30 p.m. The Joanne Champion Granger Scholarship will be awarded to high school senior Elissa Baum of Buffalo Seminary. HOME will also be recognizing the winner of the James Crawford award for service, the organization’s highest honor. The recipient will be announced on the night of the event. For tickets or sponsorship information, please contact HOME’s Director of Development & Administration Samantha Long at slong@homeny.org or (716) 854-1400 ext. 17.

Reverend George Nicholas

LEGAL SUMMONS Index No. 810685/2014 D/O/F: September 17, 2014 Premises Address: 34 LANG AVE BUFFALO, NY 14215 SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF ERIE BAYVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff, -againstCRAIG JENKINS AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF WILLIE F. JENKINS SR.; JERRY JENKINS AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF WILLIE F. JENKINS SR.; LONNIE JENKINS AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF WILLIE F. JENKINS SR.; PATRICIA JENKINS AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF WILLIE F. JENKINS SR.; PERRY JENKINS AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF WILLIE F. JENKINS SR.; WILLIE F. JENKINS JR. AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF WILLIE F. JENKINS SR.; JOHN DOE 1 THROUGH 50; JANE DOE 1 THROUGH 50, INTENDING TO BE THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, DISTRIBUTES, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, TRUSTEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, AND ASSIGNEES OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIE F. JENKINS SR. WHO WAS BORN ON APRIL 15, 1930 AND DIED ON AUGUST 4, 2012, A RESIDENT OF THE COUNTY OF ERIE, THEIR SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST IF ANY OF THE AFORESAID DEFENDANTS BE DECEASED, THEIR RESPECTIVE HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST OF THE AFORESAID CLASSES OF PERSON, IF THEY OR ANY OF THEM BE DEAD, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE HUSBANDS, WIVES OR WIDOWS, IF ANY, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES AND PLACES OF RESIDENCE ARE UNKNOWN TO THE PLAINTIFF; SAEED ALSAID; ERIE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA - INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; LVNV FUNDING LLC A/P/O CREDIT ONE BANK NA; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; NIAGARA FRONTIER TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; ERIE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES O/B/O VICKI FAUL; ''JOHN DOES'' AND ''JANE DOES'', SAID NAMES BEING FICTITIOUS, PARTIES INTENDED BEING POSSIBLE TENANTS OR OCCUPANTS OF PREMISES AND CORPORATIONS, OTHER ENTITIES OR PERSONS WHO HAVE, CLAIM, OR MAY CLAIM, A LIEN AGAINST, OR OTHER INTEREST IN, THE PREMISES, Defendant(s), TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your Answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a Notice of Appearance on the Plaintiff's Attorneys within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, where service is made by delivery upon you personally within the State, or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner, and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. NOTICE: YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.

The following notice is intended only for those defendants who are owners of the premises sought to be foreclosed or who are liable upon the debt for which the mortgage stands as security. YOU ARE HEREBY PUT ON NOTICE THAT WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. The amount of the Debt: $113,987.84 consisting of principal balance of $81,250.40 plus interest of $24,958.10, escrow/impound shortages or credits of $4,145.70, late charges of $322.22; Broker’s Price Opinion, inspection and miscellaneous charges of $2,252.00; Surrogates Search $21.73; attorney fee $500.00 and title search $537.69. Because of interest and other charges that may vary from day to day, the amount due on the day you pay may be greater. Hence, if you pay the amount shown above, an adjustment may be necessary after we receive the check, in which event we will inform you. The name of the creditor to whom the debt is owed: BAYVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC. Unless you dispute the validity of the debt, or any portion thereof, within thirty (30) days after receipt hereof, the debt will be assumed to be valid by Rosicki, Rosicki & Associates P.C. If you notify Rosicki, Rosicki & Associates P.C. in writing within thirty (30) days after your receipt hereof that the debt, or any portion thereof, is disputed, we will obtain verification of the debt or a copy of any judgment against you representing the debt and a copy of such verification or judgment will be mailed to you by Rosicki, Rosicki & Associates P.C. Upon your written request within 30 days after receipt of this notice, Rosicki, Rosicki & Associates P.C. will provide you with the name and address of the original creditor if different from the current creditor. Note: Your time to respond to the summons and complaint differs from your time to dispute the validity of the debt or to request the name and address of the original creditor. Although you have as few as 20 days to respond to the summons and complaint, depending on the manner of service, you still have 30 days from receipt of this summons to dispute the validity of the debt and to request the name and address of the original creditor. TO THE DEFENDANTS, except: The Plaintiff makes no personal claim against you in this action. TO THE DEFENDANTS: If you have obtained an order of discharge from the Bankruptcy court, which includes this debt, and you have not reaffirmed your liability for this debt, this law suit is not alleging that you have any personal liability for this debt and does not seek a money judgment against you. Even if a discharge has been obtained, this lawsuit to foreclose the mortgage will continue and we will seek a judgment authorizing the sale of the mortgaged premises. Dated: September 15, 2014 Shanna J. Black, Esq. ROSICKI, ROSICKI & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff Main Office 51 E Bethpage Road Plainview, NY 11803 516-741-2585 Help For Homeowners In Foreclosure New York State Law requires that we send you this notice about the foreclosure process. Please read it carefully. Mortgage foreclosure is a complex process. Some people may approach you about “saving” your home. You should be extremely careful about any such promises. The State encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure. There are government agencies, legal aid entities and other non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about foreclosure while you are working with your lender during this process. To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York State Banking Department at 1-877-BANKNYS (1-877-226-5697) or visit the Department’s website at www.banking.state.ny.us. The State does not guarantee the advice of these agencies.


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Challenger Community News • April 15, 2015

Understanding MWBE Certification is Theme of Free Workshop “Understanding MWBE Certification,” a free orientation and educational workshop on getting your business certified, will be offered on Thursday, April 16 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson at E. Utica. Participants attending this program will learn about the following Federal certification programs: 8(a), HUBZone, Small Disadvantaged Businesses (DBE’s), Service Disabled Veteran Owned & Women Owned Small Businesses. Participants will get all the information needed to increase potential to grow their business through certifications and government contracts. Expert speakers include Janique Curry, MWBE Compliance Coordinator, ECMC; Victoria Reynolds, Deputy District Director, SBA; and Jesse Burnette, Director, Erie County Division of Equal Employment Opportunity. The Office of U.S. Senator Kristen Gillibrand and the Office of Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples-Stokes are presenting the workshop. To register on line go to www.events.sba.gov For more information call Greg Lindberg, SBA at (716)5515670 or the Office of Senator Gillibrand at (716)854-9725.

Arts Services Initiative of WNY to Hold Individual Artist Trainings National Arts Business Institute featured at sessions Buffalo and Niagara Falls Arts Services Initiative of Western New York (ASI) will host two training sessions for individual artists aimed at advancing their careers. The training sessions will feature professional speakers from the Arts Business Institute (ABI). For over 16 years, ABI has held workshops across the United States and Canada, bringing its team of art marketing and business experts to communities where artists are in need of professional advice related to the development of their art businesses. The Erie County session will take place on Monday, April 20 from 5 pm to 9 pm at The Foundry (298 Northampton Street, Buffalo) and the Niagara County session will take place on Tuesday, April 21 from 5 pm to 9 pm at the Niagara Arts and Cultural Center , 1201 Pine Street, Niagara Falls. These artist training sessions are free and

JOBS

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

open to the public. RSVP is required for all attendees by calling (716) 362-8389 x512 or emailing asiwnyoffice@ gmail.com.

CELL PHONES

BeeSweet Lemonade

Amazing 10-Year-Old Black Girl Gets $60,000 From ‘Shark Tank’ to Build a Business Empire

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he lemonade business has an adorable new entrepreneur who’s only ten-years-old! As the founder of her own BeeSweet Lemonade line out of Austin, Texas, Mikaila Ulmer confidently represented her brand on the TV series Shark Tank on March 20 (where aspiring businesses go to compete for coveted investments). Ulmer impressed the judges so much that she got Daymond John, clothing brand FUBU’s CEO, to invest $60,000 and he’ll also be taking a 25 percent stake of BeeSweet. John was moved by Ulmer’s drive and mission with BeeSweet and after the episode aired, stated that “Partnering with Mikaila made perfect sense. She’s a great kid with a head for business and branding. She’s got a great idea and I’m happy to help take BeeSweet to the next level.” It all began when Ulmer was stung by two bees at the age of four and while thankfully she was okay, her curiosity in bees sparked! As she recalled on her official website, “I didn’t enjoy the bee stings at all. They scared me. But then something strange happened. I became fascinated with bees. I learned all about what they do for me and our ecosystem.” Based on her research, she learned that the pollinators from bees were integral to plants reproducing in the ecosystem. And also in recent years, bees have become a bit endangered because of a “still-unsolved malady” Mikaila Ulmer called Colony Collapse Disorder or aka stronger than necessary pesticides. Ulmer was moved to help her new honeybee friends and that was how BeeSweet was born. When her great Granny Helen later mailed a 1940s cookbook that featured her own flaxseed lemonade recipe, Ulmer decided that she’d use Helen’s tips but with the addition of pure honey, instead of sugar, directly from local bees.Today, a portion of BeeSweet proceeds are donated to organizations that support the lives of bees, as Ulmer is their advocate. Her lemonade line is available at select Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana Whole Foods and you can also buy it from the official website and pick a handful of flavors! Expect to see BeeSweet sold more nationwide following her Shark Tank co-sign in the near future. Go Mikaila go! Black girls rock! (Added to BeeSweet Lemonade is omega-3 essential fatty acids. The lemonade is naturally caffeine-free and has no artificial ingredients or high-fructose corn syrup, the No. 1 worst food to ingest.Mikaila and John will now work closely together to expand her business, and John will serve as her mentor.) -BlackAmericaWeb.com

HOME/PROPERTY INSPECTION

Ansar Cellular Communications & Fragrance Store 1371 Fillmore @ E. Utica

majadienterprise@aol.com

ELECTRICIAN

INSURANCE

Empire Electric (716) 634-0330

Able Insurance Jeff Moore/Broker 1798 Main St. *883-5212

(716) 884-2373

FLORISTS Maureen’s Flower Market 441 Ellicott St. * 852-4600

Majadi Enterprises Inc.

(716) 316-7776

SALONS 2441 Delaware (716) 605-9211

HAIR SUPPLY

TAILORS

Main Hair & Beauty Supply 3067 Main St. (716) 862-4247

Ann Rhod’s Tailoring 3185 Bailey Ave. (716) 838-5633

For More Info: advertising@thechallengernews.com 881-1051

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FAITH BASED

Metropolitan UM Church 36th Church Anniversary The Metropolitan UM Church located at 657 Best Street will celebrate their 36th Church Anniversary and Homecoming on Sunday, April 19 at 10:30 a.m. The guest preacher for the morning service will be Pastor Celestine Booze, Co-Pastor of the Potter’s House Christian Community Center in Niagara Falls, NY. A special invitation is extended to all present and past members, family and friends to help us celebrate our anniversary and to hear this dynamic anointed woman of God. Pastor Angela Stewart serves as pastor of Metropolitan UM Church. Free Community Breakfast The Metropolitan United Methodist Church invites the community to join them for their Monthly Community “Breakfast at Metro” on Saturday, April 25 from 9 to 11 a.m. There is no charge but a free will offering will be accepted. Come join us for a meal with family, friends and community neighbors. For more information please call (716) 891-5652.

Challenger Community News • April 15, 2015

Jazz Concert Faith Baptist to Celebrate Brunch Pastor James R. Banks II, andCalvary CME Church, 1007 Ellicott Street, where the 34th Pastoral Anniversary Rev. Larry E. Moore is pasThe Faith Baptist Church , 626 Humboldt Parkway, will celebrate Pastor James R. Banks II 34th Pastoral Anniversary with the church family on Sunday, April 19 at 10:45 a.m. The special guest will be Pastor Elgin J. Taylor Sr. and the Sweet Pilgrim Baptist Church of Albany, New York.

tor, will feature a Jazz concert and Brunch on Saturday, April 18 from 11 a.m .to 1 p.m. featuring “The Fine Notations.” For tickets call 853-1426.


WORSHIP THIS WEEK!

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Challenger Community News • April 15, 2015

April 18: The Gospel Of Liberation Welcomes All

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s a community education project, Unity Fellowship Church of Buffalo is hosting a Symposium on Saturday, April 18, with the theme “The Gospel of Liberation: Reconciling Issues of Gender and Sexuality.” The Gospel of Liberation emphasizes two central aspects of Jesus’s teaching: (1) God’s love is available to all; and (2) every system of oppression must be overthrown. This perspective originated with Dr. James Cone, author of both Black Theology and Black Power and A Black Theology of Liberation. The Symposium applies liberation theology to the tasks of ministering to LGBT persons and removing barriers to the

ordination of women pastors. We will explore interpretation of challenging biblical texts, share ideas on how to become more inclusive of LGBT persons, and hear testimonies of women ministers. The pastors who will teach and participate in the Symposium include: Rev. Gerard Williams of Unity Fellowship Church/Buffalo, host pastor; The Very Rev. Gloria PayneCarter, of St. Philip’s Episcopal Church; Rev. Rachelle Robinson, of Deep Wells Ministry; Rev. Jeffrey Chambless, of Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church; Rev. Barbara Campbell, of New Hope Baptist Church; and Rev. Dorothy Harris, Unity Fellowship Church/Columbia MD. The Symposium will be held on Saturday, April 18, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 3107 Main Street (near LaSalle). This event is free of charge. Continental breakfast and lunch will be served. For more information, call 347238-9299.

MAD DADS Bible Study The MAD DADS organization is hosting a Tuesday Night Bible Study every Tuesday, with Rev. Derren L. Young, at GROUP Ministries, 1333 Jefferson Avenue from 6:30 – 8 p.m. All are welcome. For

Buffalo District Conference Convenes East Aurora Christian Church The Reverend G. Michael Tydus, Presiding Elder of the Buffalo District of the Western New York Conference, The African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, will be presenting the Annual Buffalo District Conference on April 15—17. The theme, is “Hearing God Speak,” is taken from the Scriptures: Genesis 1 and the Gospel According to St. John 1:1-3. The Conference opens Wednesday, April 15 with evening services at 7 p.m. followed by the daily business and workshops of the Conference beginning at 9 a.m. Thursday and Friday. There will be worship service each night of the Conference at 7 p.m. St. Luke A.M.E. Zion Church, 314 E. Ferry Street, is the host church. The Reverend Cary L. Beckwith is host Pastor. The Reverend Scott C. Moore, Pastor and founder of Judah Temple A.M.E. Zion Church in Mitchellville, MD will be the guest preacher and workshop leader. A gifted speaker, leader, teacher, preacher, and counselor, Pastor Moore takes a holistic approach to inspire people to become all that God has created them to be.

The Power Of Prayer: God Leading and the Willingness to Follow By Gloria Crossdale When I began my journey ten years ago, it was not easy to say the least. As I look back on my experience, one thing I’ve realized is God never took His hands off of me even in the mist of my trials and tribulations. Life changes such as my injury, raising my five children, and changing careers made me stronger and my blessings from Him is what kept me wanting more. I thank God for everything because without Him I could not have done it all on my own strength. All things combined have created me into the women I am today. A proud mother of five beautiful children: Samaria, Tamaria, Jaha, Jamila, Adelaja Crossdale and my wonderful grandson Ayden, they are truly my rock. Over the years, they are the ones who kept me going, and I thank them also with much love. Where do you begin when you talk about your walk with God. For me, it began at home. I had a praying and a Bible believing mother that taught me to wait on the Lord and hold strong to my belief and practices. Gloria Crossdale Because of her influence, I increased my faith in God and I’ve never wavered from this to this very day. I will never forget, the first time I stepped foot in a church. It was Easter Sunday, ten years ago at the age of forty five. A good friend of mine, Mrs. Eva Thomas came and picked me up for service that Sunday and when Bishop McGill did the altar call, she walked with me and I gave my life to the Lord and I heard God say, I been waiting for you all this time. I then became a member of New Life Fellowship and I have been running for the Lord ever since. When I became a part of the Christian body at New Life Fellowship (Rochester), I saw and experienced, the love and compassion that Bishop and First Lady Dr. Cynthia McGill had for God’s people. I joined because they made me feel at home and I have much love and respect for them with their giving so much of themselves, not just to me, but the Christian body as a whole. I began attending Wednesday night Bible study which has opened my eyes in how to break down and understand the word of God. New believer class gave me the basic understanding in my walk with God. School of leaders taught me in how to become an effected leader, and over the years, all of the ministries that I serve on has taught me so much in how to be a servant in and outside of Gods house. As my walk continues, I ask God for three things: let me maintain an effective prayer life, let me serve with humility, and Continued Page 14

Cultural Celebration

The East Aurora Christian Church invites the community to attend its African American History Month Celebration at the church, located at 464 Main St., East Aurora, on Sunday, April 9 at 10 a.m. (Adult Bible study also begins at 9 a.m.) The originally scheduled event was postponed due to weather. The guest speaker for the morning, Reverend Doctor Montrose A. Streeter, is a native of Greenville, North Carolina. He was reared in the church and accepted Christ at an early age. He has distinguished himself Rev. Dr. Streeter as an educator, preacher, workshop and retreat leader. Dr. Streeter is committed to the upliftment of mankind. He has served on several boards including the Geneva Human Rights Commission and volunteers his time to worthy causes. Also, he is an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated - Eta Rho Lambda Chapter, Rochester, New York. We hope you will join us to hear our distinguished speaker and to celebrate this special event!

Pastor Mack McCollum , “One Arm Bandit” to Preach at Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church Pastor Mack McCollum, The One Arm Bandit” from New Home Missionary Baptist Church in Chicago, will appear for one night of “preaching, teaching and singing” at Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, 400 Northampton Street where the Rev. Jeffrey C. Chambless is pastor. For more information call (716) 885-8778 or email, mtmoriahbuffalo@gmail.com

Pastor Simpson to Deliver Divine Worship Message Pastor Rohan R. Simpson will deliver the Divine Worship message to the church family, friends, neighbors and guests for the next two consecutive Saturdays, April 18 and 25 at 11 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Pastor Simpson, a native of Jamaica, is currently the pastor of Emmanuel Temple Seventh-Day Adventist Church. The church will begin their services with Sabbath School at 9:30 a.m., Divine Worship at 11 a.m., Bible Study at 3 p.m. and AY Program at 5 p.m. All ages are welcome. All services will be held at the Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 179 East Ferry Street.

Humboldt Parkway Baptist Appreciation Worship Service

The members of the Humboldt Parkway Baptist Church, where Rev. John T. Hilliard is pastor, will present an Appreciation Worship Service honoring their Minister of Music for 49 years, Brother David James Davis, fondly known as “Jimmy.” The service will take place on Sunday, April 19 at 4 p.m. at the church, located at 790 Humboldt Parkway. The public is invited to attend this celebration of love, music ministry and dedication!

Rock Revival

“Rock Revival” in memory of the late Pastor O.G. Motley and Arlene Motley-Spells, the founders of King Solomon Holiness Church, will be held Monday, April 20 thru Friday April 24 at 7 p.m. nightly at God’s Way of Life Church, 491 E. Ferry Street. Hear dynamic speakers nightly including Pastor D’Mott Motley, April 20; Pastor Ronald Benning, April 21; Apostle Duane and Pastor Pamela Thomas Sr. April 22; Pastor Hamid Motley, April 23; and Pastor Frank J. Knolton Sr., First Union Baptist Church, Detroit , Michigan on Friday April 24.


Challenger Community News • April 15, 2015

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ENTERTAINMENT

ON STAGE *Jazz Vesper @ First Shiloh Baptist Church . An evening of jazz and praise featuring Rick Fleming Jazz Combo & More! Friday, April 17 @ 6 pm. Reception to follow.Tickets $15 per person. Call 8306755 or 860-9723

CELEBRATED: Stephen McKinley Henderson, acclaimed actor and UB Theatre Professor, is being celebrated during UB’s annual Signature Series. An Evening With Stephen McKinley Henderson will be held Wednesday, April 15 at Lippes Concert Hall, Slee Hall, UB North Campus at 7 p.m. followed by a reception in his honor at Art Gallery, Center for the Arts, UB North Campus.. The event is free and open to the pubic Drea

CD/DVD Release

“Drea d’Nur Unplugged”

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usic Artist and Mother of 5, Drea d’Nur has released “Drea d’Nur Unplugged,” offering fans the opportunity to experience her exclusive acoustic live recording.

“Her voice is amazing,” said Justin Rose, Celebrity Engineer of GCR Audio where the Unplugged show was recorded live in February 2015. Drea captured an intimate audience with original songs that tell the story of overcoming dark moments and embarking upon a beautiful journey of self-love. Many supporters have already fallen in love with Drea d’Nur after hearing her Germany-based recording, Day of d’Nur. Many would agree that her live shows tug at the soul, leaving a lasting imprint with listeners. The depth of soul and sincerity in her music is refreshing. The Unplugged show will have you in worship, in laughter, in tears, and in love. D’Nur has a special gift of connecting with people with her raw vocal and warm spirit. Drea d’Nur encourages listeners to embrace God’s love and learn to love themselves. She walked off of her job two years ago to pursue her vision of helping to empower and heal others by spreading Love and Light through Music, and has been successfully doing so ever since (in addition to raising 5 children). D’Nur is also a songwriter, pianist, and producer. “Drea d’Nur Unplugged” CD was released 04.10.15. The official CD/DVD release performance wass also last Friday at Rochester’s Studio E and was SOLD OUT! DVDs are exclusively available for preorder atWWW.OFFICIALDREADNUR. COM. Digital copies of this amazing project are available on iTunes, Amazon, GooglePlay, and other online stores.

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!

* Alemaedae Theatre Presents “F. B. E. (Family Before Everything),” written by Phil Davis Sr. and Taura “Chyna” Stephens, directed by Willie Judson; stars Willie Judson, John Stover Jr, Alphonso Walker Jr, Leora Owens, Ebony Pace, Mary Stone, Ayanna Williams and Terence “T-Brown” Brown; on stage at 1412 Main St. Sunday, April 12 thru Tuesday, April 28. Shows are Sunday at 4pm; Mondays & Tuesdays at 730pm. Advance Tickets are $15. $20 at the door. Tickets may be purchased at Doris Records 286 E Ferry Ave and online at www.atpgalaxy. com. Call 716.602.6253 for reservations and information.” Preview night Friday, April 10 at 7:30 pm. at 1412 Main Street. For this NIGHT ONLY, admission will be a free will donation, with all proceeds being donated to the Lanasha Rose Foundation. *Grammy Award-winning recording artist, Academy Award-winning actress and best-selling author Jennifer Hudson will perform at the Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival on Wednesday June 24 at 8 p.m. in the Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre.Tickets range from $55 to $120 and are available online at rochesterjazz.com or order by phone (585) 4542060.

*Battle of the Bands,, Rochester & Buffalo every Wenesday, The Groove Lounge, hosted by Regina Stannard & WBLK’s Todd Anderson, 1210 Broadway. No admission fee. see you at the events!


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Challenger Community News • April 15, 2015

John Legend Launches Campaign To End Mass Incarceration

IT’S A “BALLIN FOR A CAUSE” WEEKEND!

Grammy-winning singer John Legend has announced a multiyear initiative, FREE AMERICA, to end mass incarceration. He was scheduled to visit and perform at a correctional facility on Thursday in Austin, Texas, where he also will be part of a press conference with state legislators to discuss Texas’ criminal justice system. “We have a serious problem with incarceration in this country,” Legend said in an interview. “It’s destroying families, it’s destroying communities and we’re the most incarcerated country in the world, and when you look deeper and look at the reasons we got to this place, we as a society made some choices politically and legislatively, culturally to deal with poverty, deal with mental illness in a certain way and that way usually involves using incarceration.” Legend, 36, will also visit a California state prison and co-host a criminal justice event with Politico in Washington, D.C., later this month.

love like no other. Each year, millions of aspiring basketball players showcase their skills on the blacktops and hardwoods across the world, vying to be among the future legends of basketball. This love of bas-

National Ballin for a Cause Charity Basketball Tournament offers $5,000 Cash Prize in games featuring Youth Invitational, Women and Men's Divisions

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ketball sometimes translates into an added love of the community that helped them get there. Only a few events merge the love of the two quite like “Ballin for a Cause” National Basketball Tournament. This highly anticipated 5-on-5

national Buffalo homegrown basketball tournament, with a $5,000 cash prize, is being held this weekend from Friday, April 17, until Sunday, April 19, located at the Nichols School off Amherst Street. Games kickoff at 6 p.m. on Friday, and are from 8 a.m.- 6 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. This sought after 5-on-5 basketball tournament has grown each year to raise awareness of the needs of nonprofit and charitable organizations that benefit youth and provide scholarships, youth sports and community service. The champions will be invited with free entry to participate in the Ballin for a Cause tournament in NYC (July 18-19) for a chance to win $10,000 respectively. The games start at various times through the weekend, and admission of $5.00 and open to the general public. The full schedule is online at www.ballinforacause.com. For more information on Ballin for a Cause, or media inquiries please contact 716.292.3797 or via e-mail ball4ac@gmail.com.


GENERATIONS 2015 Jack & Jill of America Beautillion Presents Challenger Community News • April 15, 2015

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11 Young Men of Distinction!

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n Saturday April 25, Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Buffalo Chapter will hold its Biennial Beautillion Program at Salvatore’s Italian Gardens. The program, which was established in 1988, incorporates leadership components focusing on education, social, culture, career, community responsibility and community service. Each Beau is chosen in recognition of his demonstrated achievements in academics, community or church involvement and his overall commitment of the advancement of the African American community. The Buffalo Chapter of Jack and Jill of America Inc. proudly presents this year’s candidates: Avery Roper, City Honors, son of Deirdre Roper Craig Herndon-Hill, Canisius High School, son of Gladys and James Hill, Jr. Darrell Lane , Amherst High Schoolson of Dr. Illana and Darrell Lane Nigel Jacobs, The Park School, son of Ingrid Knight and Darryl Jacobs Xavier Kyle, Nichols High School, son of From Top. Avery Roper, Craig Herndon-Hill, Darrell Lane Dylan Janice and Bennie Kyle Mark Myles. 2nd Row: Nigel Jacobs, Tanner Smith, TeTyrone Wheatley Jr., Canisius High School, Grayson, rius Wheatley, Tyrone Wheatley Jr., Ulysees Rodgers. Bottom son of Kimberly and Tyrone Wheatley right: Xavier Kyle Terius Wheatly, Orchard Park High School, son of Kimberly and Tyrone Wheatley Dylan Grayson, Canisius High School, son of Clyvette Grayson and George Arthur Jr. Mark Myles, Hamburg High School son of Janessa and Mark Myles Ulysees Rodgers, WNY Maritime Charter School, son of Wendy Rodgers Tanner Smith, Performing Arts High School, son of Tracey and Lloyd Smith The formal gala will be held at Salvatore’s Italian Garden at 6 p.m. Tickets are still available for $55 each, please contact Joyce Noward at 716-834-9101 for information. The President of the Buffalo Chapter is Deirdre Roper. The guest speaker will be Kenny Simmons and the Master of ceremonies will be Dr. James A. Lewis III. Co-chairs of the events are Kimisha Houston and Kenisha Smith.

404 Edison Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14215 Parents, you do not have to send your child to a low-performing school. The Charter School of Inquiry, a Kindergarten through Grade 6 elementary school, is opening this August starting with Kindergarten, Grade 1 and Grade 2. (Each year another grade will be added.) This new and innovative school offers:

Inquiry Curriculum

Takes advantage of children’s natural curiosity to learn about themselves and the world around them. Children at CSI conduct their own investigations, document findings, and make presentations.

African And African-American Infusion

African and African-American history and culture are infused into all subject areas throughout the year, not just in February and not just in Social Studies.

Reading / Literacy An intense focus on assuring that all children are proficient readers, writers, critical thinkers, problem solvers, and communicators. Warm And Safe Culture Teachers, parents, students and community work together to

create a climate of warmth and safety, a sense of belonging and a place where children feel free to experiment and take risks.

Inviting And Welcoming Place For Parents Parents are woven into the fabric of the school from the classroom to the afterschool program and special events. One parent will be a full voting member on CSI’s board of trustees.

Built On Strong Community Foundation CSI recognizes that the school is not an island. CSI invites the community to have a voice in defining what children need, and a hand in helping provide supports to CSI’s children and families.

Charter schools are free. There is no tuition. Bus transportation is available. School will serve breakfast, lunch and snack. Longer school day and free 2-hour afterschool program available until 5:30 pm. For more information, and to get an application, visit www.CharterSchoolOfInquiry.org, email CharterSchoolOfInquiry@gmail.com, or call 716-866-3876. Don’t wait. Places are filling up fast!

UNIQUE SISTERS! Unique Sisters (US) will celebrate its first annual awards dinner banquet on Saturday, April 25 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Math, Science and Technology Preparatory School at Seneca, 666 East Delavan Avenue. Presale tickets are $10 and $15 at the door. The not-forprofit program, founded by Ms. Rhodesia Jackson, encourages, and empowers girls ages 6 and up. Its main focus is helping them achieve success both at home and at school through building positive self esteem, inner beauty, etiquette and finding employment. “Our one year anniversary is a great milestone to reflect the progress, efforts and positive change our program and our girls have made over the past 12 months,” noted Ms. Jackson. The community is urged to come out and support this positive event.

Sign Up The Kids Now for the JFK Soccer Team! Spring Soccer is back! Join the JFK Team today and learn new skills and healthy lifestyle tips. The season runs from now thru June 26. Practice days are Monday, Tuesday and Thursdays from 6-7:30 p.m. at 114 Hickory Street in the green space behind the basketball courts. In order for your child to participate parents must complete a registration packet. There will be more openings on the team this year, so tell your friends to come! For more information, concerns or questions, call the Independent Health Foundation at (716) 635-4959.


Challenger Community News • April 15, 2015

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK – COUNTY OF ERIE INDEX# 809581/14 FILED: 02/19/2015 SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS AND NOTICE Plaintiff designates Erie County as the place of trial. The Basis of Venue is that the Subject of the Action is situated in Erie County. JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, S/B/M CHASE HOME FINANCE LLC, S/B/M TO CHASE MANHATTAN MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Plaintiff, against Daniel F. Novak, Esq., as Temporary Administrator for the Estate of George Carter, his respective heirs-at-law, next-of-kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest, and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said defendant who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise, any right, title or interest in the real property described in the complaint herein, ELIZABETH LAWSON AS HEIR OF THE ESTATE OF GEORGE CARTER, KATHLEEN CARTER AS HEIR OF THE ESTATE OF GEORGE CARTER, BENEFICIAL NEW YORK, INC., CITY COURT OF BUFFALO, CAPITAL ONE BANK (USA), NA, LVNV FUNDING LLC, MIDLAND FUNDING, LLC, HOUSEHOLD FINANCE REALTY CORPORATION OF NEW YORK, THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE - UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION & FINANCE, SAM CARTER, DIANE FUNDERBURK, Defendants. TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: 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 ATTORNEYS 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 YOU CASE IS PENDING FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON HOW TO ANSWER THE SUMMONS AND PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY. SENDING A PAYMENT TO YOUR MORTGAGE COMPANY WILL NOT STOP THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. 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 serviced with this summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the Plaintiff’s attorney within 20 days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); The United States of America, if designated as a Defendant in this action, may appear within (60) days of service thereof and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT: THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is the foreclosure of a Mortgage, dated June 9, 1997, executed by, George Carter, as mortgagor, to M&T Mortgage Corporation, as mortgagee, to secure the sum of $49,500.00, which mortgage was duly recorded in The Erie County Clerk’s Office on June 9, 1997, in Book 12746 at Page 1058. An Assignment of Mortgage was recorded in The Erie County Clerk’s Office on November 25, 1997, in Book 12765 at Page 4309, covering, premises known as 419 Madison Street, Buffalo, NY 14212. (Section 111.42, Block 2 and Lot 54.1). The relief sought within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt described above. To the above named Defendants: The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of the Hon. Shirley Troutman, a Justice of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, filed along with the supporting papers in the office of the Clerk of the County of Erie on 02/19/2015. This is an action to foreclose on a mortgage. ALL that tract or parcel of land, situate in the City of Buffalo, County of Erie and State of New York, Section 111.42, Block 2 and Lot 54.1. Said premises known as 419 Madison Street, Buffalo, NY 14212. YOU ARE HEREBY PUT ON NOTICE THAT WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. By reason of the default in the payment of the monthly installment of principal and interest, among other things, as hereinafter set forth, Plaintiff, the holder and owner of the aforementioned note and mortgage, or their agents have elected and hereby accelerate the mortgage and declare the entire mortgage indebtedness immediately due and payable. The following amounts are now due and owing on said mortgage, no part of any of which has been paid although duly demanded: By reason of the foregoing, there is now due and owing from the Mortgagor to plaintiff the principal sum of $28,411.59 plus interest at the rate of 7.500% per annum that has accrued prior to this action as of February 1, 2013 and late charges. UNLESS YOU DISPUTE THE VALIDITY OF THE DEBT, OR ANY PORTION THEREOF, WITHIN THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER YOUR RECEIPT HEREOF THAT THE DEBT, OR ANY PORTION THEREOF, IS DISPUTED, THE DEBTOR JUDGMENT AGAINST YOU AND A COPY OF SUCH VERIFICATION OR JUDGMENT WILL BE MAILED TO YOU BY THE HEREIN DEBT COLLECTOR. IF APPLICABLE, UPON YOUR WRITTEN REQUEST, WITHIN SAID THIRTY (30) DAY PERIOD, THE HEREIN DEBT COLLECTOR WILL PROVIDE YOU WITH THE NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE ORIGINAL CREDITOR. IF YOU HAVE RECEIVED A DISCHARGE FROM THE UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT, YOU ARE NOT PERSONALLY LIABLE FOR THE UNDERLYING INDEBTEDNESS OWED TO PLAINTIFF/CREDITOR AND THIS NOTICE/DISCLOSURE IS FOR COMPLIANCE AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS IN FORECLOSURE New York State requires that we send you this notice about the foreclosure process. Please read it carefully. SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT You are in danger of losing your home. If you fail to respond to the summons and complaint in this foreclosure action, you may lose your home. Please read the summons and complaint carefully. You should immediately contact an attorney or your local legal aid office to obtain advice on how to protect yourself. SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE The State encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure. In addition to seeking assistance from an attorney or legal aid, there are government agencies, and non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about possible options, including trying to work with your lender during this process. To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by New York state Banking Department at 1-877-Bank-NYS or visit the Department’s website at www. banking.state.ny.us FORECLOSURE RESCUE SCAMS Be careful of people who approach you with offers to “save” your home. There are individuals who watch for notices of foreclosure actions in order to unfairly profit from a homeowner’s distress. You should be extremely careful about any such promises and any suggestions that you pay them a fee or sign over your deed. State law requires anyone offering such services for profit to enter into a contract which fully describes the services they will perform and fees they will charge, and which prohibits them from taking any money from you until they have completed all such promised services. Section 1303 NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving the 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 may lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING AN ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Stiene & Associates, P.C., Attorneys for the Plaintiff, 187 East Main Street, Huntington, NY 11743 201300413

CANCER PREVENTION TIPS continued

Cookware: About 70 percent of the cookware sold in the US contains a non-stick coating that contains PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and other perfluorinated compounds (PFCs), which are used to make grease-resistant food packaging and stain-resistant clothing as well. Even though there are many names, if the item in question is “non-stick” or “stain/grease resistant,” it will generally have some type Research has revealed that these toxins can accumulate in your blood at an alarming rate and may lead to chronic disease like cancer over time. You can keep your exposure as low as possible by avoiding (or getting rid of) products that contain PFCs. This includes: Non-stick cookware (choose either ceramic or glass instead), Stain-proof clothing, Microwave popcorn, Flame retardants and products that contain them, Packaging for greasy foods (including paper and cardboard packaging) ,Stain-resistant carpeting, and fabric stain protectors. 7. Drink Clear Pure Water 8. Choose Organic and Local-

ly Grown Food. Avoid canned foods and plastics as BPA is a widely used component. 10. Ditch Your Microwave and microwave popcorn.

13 If you microwave your food in plastic containers, it can hasten the rate at which potentially cancer-causing chemicals can leach into your food. (From mercola.com)

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING/MEDIA ADVISORY PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a meeting of the County Legislature of the County of Erie, New York, shall be held in the Chambers of the Legislature, located at Old County Hall, 92 Franklin Street, 4th Floor, Buffalo, New York, in said County, on the 20th day of April, 2015, at 11:30 o’clock a.m., prevailing time, pursuant to Tax Law §1432 and General Municipal Law §6-d, for the purpose of conducting a public hearing to hear public comment on: • the appropriation of $10,800,000 of Transfer Tax from the Erie County Road Repair Reserve Fund (budgeted 2015 revenue) for road and bridge repairs in 2015; and • the appropriation of $2,470,000 of prior year surplus Transfer Tax from the Erie County Road Repair Reserve Fund for road and bridge repairs in 2015. A copy of the resolution is available for Public Inspection at the Office of the Clerk of the Legislature, located at Old County Hall, 92 Franklin Street, 4th Floor, Buffalo, New York 14202. The resolution can also be viewed on the internet at http://www2.erie.gov/legislature/sites/www2. erie.gov.legislature/files/uploads/Friday_Uploads/2015/ Session_7/15Comm.7E-COUNTY%20EXECUTIVE%20 2015%20Highway%20Projects.PDF Dated: Buffalo, New York April 10, 2015 By: Karen M. McCarthy Clerk, County Legislature

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Challenger Community News • April 15, 2015

Cops, Lies and Cell Phone Videos… Example of Police Officers blatantly lying about the shooting death Walter L. Scott is just the tip of the iceberg Michael Slager, the South Carolina police officer, was captured by a neighborhood resident’s phone camera firing repeatedly into the back of 50 year-old Walter L. Scott, a Black North Charleston father of four with no criminal record who had been stopped for a minor traffic violation, tussled with the officer, and tried to run away.Malik Shabazz, National President of the Black Lawyers for Justice organization, told CNN that had it not been for the video, Slager “would be lying back in his living room watching TV.” Slager is not the only officer who tried to use the old “I feared for my life” lie to cover up his misconduct. And while the following examples of police officers blatantly lying about the arrests or shootings of Black men is just the tip of the iceberg, there are countless others across the country who were either killed and brurtalized by the police– like Amadu Diallo, Sean Bell and Abner Louima – without the benefit of someone catching their murderous, abusive actions on tape.

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ometimes police officers lie. It’s a scary thought when you consider how much prosecutors, defense attorneys, juries and judges—hell, everyone who works in the criminal-justice system—rely on the testimonies of police officers, and the information they put in police reports, to determine whether a person ought to be indicted for, charged with, tried for or convicted of a crime. In video footage released Tuesday evening by the New York Times, North Charleston, S.C., Police Officer Michael Slager fatally shot Walter L. Scott, an unarmed 50-year-old African-American father of four. The clip sparked a nationwide outcry, in part because in the police report, Slager said that he shot Scott because he had taken the officer’s Taser and Slager said that he feared for his life. Here is a list of other incidents in which police officers were caught lying on the record. 1. Cleveland officers lied at least four times about Tamir Rice. According to an MSNBC report, there were at least four items in the police report about the shooting death of 12-year-old Tamir Rice that video footage proved to be false: 1) that Tamir was sitting underneath the pavilion with a few other people; 2) that when Tamir saw the police car, he picked the gun up off the table—it was a toy gun, but that’s besides the point—and put it in his waistband; 3) that police got out of the car and told Tamir three times to put his hands up; and 4) that Tamir reached into his waistband to remove the gun and was then shot by police. They’re all lies. Video footage shows that Tamir was shot less than three seconds after the police vehicle pulled up. Tamir was standing up, not sitting down; nor was he with other people. Tamir was by himself. 2. A Seattle cop lied about a 69-year-old man swinging a golf club at her. Seattle Police Officer Cynthia Whitlatch claimed that she arrested 69-year-old William Wingate because he swung his golf club—which he was using as a cane—at her and that he also hit a stop sign with the golf club. The officer even claimed that the dashboard camera on her patrol car would corroborate her account that Wingate had swung at her. According to the Seattle Police Department, no such video exists of Wingate swinging at Whitlatch. What the video does show, however, is Whitlatch pulling over while Wingate was leaning on his club and yelling, "You just swung that golf club at me." Wingate was arrested, spent the night in jail and was charged with a misdemeanor. A judge eventually dismissed the charge. The officer is on paid leave. 3. A South Carolina state trooper lied about a man retrieving his wallet. Hours after he shot Levar Jones at a gas station, South Carolina State Trooper Sean Groubert can be seen in video footage telling his supervisor that as Jones made his way out of his vehicle, “I saw something black in his hands.” But that’s not what Groubert’s police dashboard camera caught on film. In that footage, Groubert stopped Jones for a seat belt violation in a parking lot. When the officer asked to see Jones’ license, he reached into his vehicle to get his ID. Suddenly Groubert shot at Jones several times, hitting him once in the hip. Groubert was fired, arrested, and charged with assault and battery. Groubert is on trial and still waiting for a verdict. 4. Three New Jersey officers lied about a traffic stop that turned violent. When Marcus Jeter was arrested in 2012, he faced charges of eluding police, resisting arrest and assault on a police officer. Jeter was going to accept a plea deal so that he would receive the minimum sentence of five years. That was until footage from a police dashboard camera showed that Jeter had, in fact, complied with police officers’ requests when he was pulled over on the highway in New Jersey. Footage shows that when police pulled Jeter over, he stopped his car and, contrary to what the officers later claimed, did not try to escape. A second police vehicle crashed into Jeter’s car, causing Jeter to hit his head on his steering wheel. None of that made it into the police report, however. When officers yelled at Jeter to get out of the car, Jeter said that he was afraid he would be shot if he got out, so he remained in the car with his hands up. Footage from the second police-car dash cam showed that the officers then busted in Jeter’s driver’s-side window, punched Jeter in the face, and dragged him out of the car and onto the pavement. That footage helped prove Jeter’s innocence and led to the indictment of two of the officers, who were charged with tampering, official misconduct, tampering with public records, and false documents and false swearing. The third officer retired after pleading guilty to tampering. Donald Andrews’ smoke shop in Schenectady, N.Y., was raided in 2013 after a paid police informant told Schenectady cops that Andrews was selling cocaine. In the midst of all the legal drama, Andrews said that he had to close up shop for nearly two weeks because of the charges he faced. But on April 17, after looking at footage from the store’s security camera, officers told An-

Above, a man in North Charaleston protests the murder of Walter Scott (left), seen running, as Officer Michael Slager shots him in the back.

drews that the charges against him were being dropped. The police informant was seen in the store’s security footage planting cocaine on the shop’s counter. Andrews said that he plans to sue the Schenectady Police Department. Marlene Pinnock, a 52-year-old African-American woman was brutally beaten beat by a California cop as she walked along the side of a highway. The incident was captured on video by a passerby. Pinnock was hospitalized for a month due to the head injuries she suffered from the incident. She won a $1.5 million lawsuit and the officer resigned. Black Agenda Report : More Examples of Out of Control Killings Last weekend in the town of Zion, Illinois, about 30 miles north of Chicago, cops killed 17-yearold Justus Howell with two shots to the back while he was running away, according to the coroner’s office. Initially, the police reported no weapon on his body, but later the cops claimed the teenager had stolen a gun from another man minutes earlier, leading them to give chase. In time, the cops produced a gun, which they will connect to the other Black man, who was held on $15,000 bail, and thereby seek to justify the killing of the unarmed, fleeing teenager Justus Howell. Cleveland cop Michael Brelo distinguished himself as the most murderous member of a mob of 104 cops on a chase-and-shoot spree in Cleveland, Ohio, back in November, 2012. Mistaking a car engine backfire for a gunshot, the crazy cop caravan careened through Cleveland at speeds reaching 100 miles an hour, cornering Timothy Russell, 43, and Malissa Williams, 30, in a school parking lot. Russell and Williams, unarmed, died in a hail of 137 bullets – 49 of them fired by Officer Brelo, now on trial for voluntary manslaughter. Brelo and his partner fired 15 bullets through their own windshield at the Black victims’ car. Then, at a point when, according to the prosecutor, no cop’s life was in danger (except from other officers), Brelo jumped on the hood of the victims’ car and fired 15 more shots at the mortally wounded man and woman. Today, the cop says he has no recollection of the entire episode. In December, the U.S. Justice Department concluded that Cleveland cops routinely useexcessive force and are unaccountable to the public. The month before, in November, a city cop killed 12 year-old Tamir Rice as he played with a toy gun at a park. The officer shot the child twice after observing him for a total of two seconds. Officer Brelo’s blank memory on the shootings of Timothy Russell and Malissa Williams, and officer Timothy Loehmann’s blink-of-an-eye deliberations on terminating Tamir Rice, point up the utter lack of value U.S. society places on Black lives. The high-profile killings this week, the obscene death toll last month, the unreported and delayed deaths, are a constant in the bloody history of America. When President Obama insists that racism is not, and has never been, “endemic” to this country, he is simply identifying himself as an active participant in the ongoing slaughter. From The Root, BlackAgendaReport, various news reports)

THE POWER OF PRAYER continued

tinue allowing me to surround myself with wise women. God gave me an understanding of the five Ps: prayer, prep time, patience, process, and my purpose I hold dear to as my walk with God as Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit guided me through. I do not take my blessings for granted, I can only say thank you God thank you Lord!!!! In June of 2014 I finished the Certificated of Christian Ministry and May of 2015 I will be walking with the graduating class from North Eastern Seminary at Robert Wesleyan College. I will be Ordained in the spring of 2015. I’m currently serving as a Chaplain at Monroe Community Hospital with the Pastoral care team. I love ministering to Gods people on a daily basis, and will be starting my Clinical Pastoral Education training. WOW the power of prayer! The work of a Christian servant begins when you continue to give of oneself by giving back within the community with the love and compassion for Gods people from the Hospitals, Nursing homes, sick and shut in, and the many mission and outreach facilities that we as disciples of Christ can reach. You see, Jesus Christ did not have a bike or a car but He reached multitudes of people. GOD WILL GIVE TO YOU WHEN YOU GIVE BACK TO OTHERS. AMEN


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Challenger Community News • April 15, 2015

My Journey to Opting-Out

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grew up in a large family – the middle child, youngest girl – in a family of seven brothers and a sister. My parents, who were post World War II pioneers in the Second Great Migration, moved our family to Buffalo from Louisiana in 1947. They left behind family and friends in search of economic opportunity, social and political equality and access to educational advancement for their children. While neither completed high school, their belief in the power of education as a means to a better life was communicated to us through their expectation that we would adhere to school dictates and strictly enforced by their authoritarian parenting style. So I grew up always pushing through educational challenges and stoically persisting in following the rules, even those that seemed unfair or questionable. Opting out was not an option. This week, beginning on April 14th, hundreds of thousands of students in the 3rd – 8th grades, across this State will begin a three day cycle of test taking in English Language Arts. The following week, those same students will take the standardized tests in math. During this period, thousands, perhaps hundreds of thousands of their classmates will refuse these tests. Their parents have decided to opt-out of the “high-stakes testing” mill. They are pioneers in a Movement that is growing, not just in New York State but in states throughout this country. They are opting out, not because they don’t value educational assessment; not because they don’t believe in setting standards for educational achievement; not because they don’t think their children should learn perseverance in the face of difficulty and not because they don’t have high expectations of their children. They are motivated by principled opposition to the use of these tests for purposes that Barbara Seals are not validated and the intense focus on teaching to the test. Nevergold Blogger, “Lace to the Top,” offers an analysis of the upcoming ELA test for 3rd graders. He states that given the length of the passages and the questions that students will have to read, they would have to be able to read 75 words a minute, at least, to complete the test. EngageNY, the website for information about the ELA and Math tests provides the following guidance about this year’s test: “many of the questions on the 2015 Grade 3 Common Core English Language Arts Test are more advanced and complex than those found on prior assessments that measured prior grade level standards. Answer choices will not jump out; rather, students will need to make hard choices between “fully correct” and “plausible but incorrect” answers….” Is there a plan to trick students? Why?

Candidates of Color Must be Considered in Upcoming Judicial Races Dear Editor: Over the past several weeks I have read in local community papers such as Art Voice and The Public, a barrage of articles about the upcoming important judicial races that will take place in Western New York. Sadly no such informational writings have been seen in our papers. These articles speak of who will or should be the next judge in these important courts, where the fate of those who appear before them will be decided (sadly in too many of these instances it will be us, people of color). And as usual, not one time has a Black or Brown candidate been mentioned for any of these judgeships. As a graduating Criminal Justice major, I have spent the last four years writing papers on, as well as observing how the judicial system has worked, especially here in Western New York. Having witnessed and written on the shameful resolution of the Trayvon Martin/George Zimmerman matter; the disgraceful conclusion in Ferguson, Missouri; and watching in disbelief, the video recording of the incident which resulted in the Grand Jury No Bill in Long Island, it is crystal clear that the need for Black and Brown judges is greater now than in any point in my life. It is my hope that Civil Rights organizations such as the NAACP, Urban League and the National Action Network, our clergy and most importantly, our elected officials, unite as one in 2015 and say “we won’t be left out again this year!” We as a people have too much at stake. We can no longer stand idly by and not demand that the political parties gave support to lawyers or judges of color for all judicial offices that will appear on the ballot this year. Just as importantly, as in other communities, our newspapers – the medium we rely on to keep us up to date on what is really happening in Western New York – must periodically report on this important issue. “No justice, no peace” cannot simpoly be a slogan in 2015. It must become a reality, if not for us, for those who will follow us. -Curtis Jackson, Buffalo

dear editor

As a school board member and educator, I have followed the high stakes testing debate. Last year I wrote an article entitled “Are you smarter than a 3rd grader?”, that cited reasons why these tests are not true measures of our children’s abilities: 1) they are not developmentally appropriate – reading levels are far above the grade level being tested 2) the tests are not diagnostic; they don’t provide information that helps the teacher target student learning needs 3) almost all children take the same test, regardless of their ability or their English language proficiency; it’s a one size fits all approach 4) the emphasis on the tests encourages teaching to the test at the expense of time for other subjects 5) children are being demoralized and frustrated by long hours of testing. In addition test results are being used to grade schools and to evaluate educators, even though statistics experts dispute the validity of this methodology. I am a proponent of the Opt-Out Movement. I believe in the purpose/goals/validity of this Movement. And this is where my journey becomes relevant. My support has developed over time and resulted from research, reflection and discussions with advocates. However, belief is not enough if it isn’t married with action, when warranted. I began this article with a brief personal reference to the learned behaviors ingrained by my parents. They also encouraged me to stand up for my beliefs. I have two granddaughters who attend a focus school. The oldest one, a third grader, is scheduled to take the ELA and Math tests this year. Although she is a very bright girl, loves school and her teachers, she has a reading problem associated with a vision disability. She is working hard to overcome her problem but reading is a challenge and she is easily discouraged. In addition to all the arguments for opting out, my granddaughter’s reading difficulties added another compelling reason to refuse the tests. But the decision isn’t mine; it’s her parent’s. However, a grandmother can be influential. Over the last six months I’ve had long discussions with my daughter, supplied her with information about the tests and urged her to visit EngageNY to see sample questions. Today, I can say that my family has joined the Opt-out Movement. My granddaughter will not be taking the ELA or math tests! I think my parents would approve. Local school districts are having serious conversations about the Opt Out Movement and its impact on students and the school system. Unfortunately these conversations have not been on the Buffalo Board’s agenda because the focus has been on a myriad of other pressing issues. Yet, many of these pressing issues are directly related to high stakes testing as these tests are used to identify our schools as “failing” and “out-of-time”. This issue has been raised to an even higher level of importance given the Governor’s recent budget and legislative agenda resulting in greater reliance on these tests to evaluate student, school and educator proficiency. I’ll propose that the Board begin a dialogue about the impact of high stakes testing and policies that we should consider in response. It’s time to extend the journey.

Challenger Community News P.O. BOX 474 Buffalo, NY 14209 “We wish to plead our own cause. Too long have others spoken for us.” - John Russwurm, Freedom’s Journal. 1827 America’s 1st Black Newspaper

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Challenger Community News • April 15, 2015

Merriweather Library: Nine Years Strong!

1324 Jefferson Avenue @ E. Utica Street * 883-4418

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he Frank E. Merriweather, Jr. Library, first opened on April 1, 2006, is celebrating its 9th anniversary! Join us this month as we continue serving the community. •April 15th: Children’s programs include our bi-weekly Craft Night at 6 p.m. for ages 6-12. •April 18th & 19th: Twoday Poetry Marathon hosted by Latrice Simone Green aka “Goodness” 2-5 p.m. with the theme: “For Adults – By Adults” and on Sunday, April 19th from 1-4 p.m. with the theme: “Kid Friendly – Family Oriented”. Either day you may read your own work or a poem from your favorite poet. •April 21st & 28th: Computer classes “Microsoft Word Basics” on April 21st and “Microsoft Word Intermediate” on April 28th. Both classes 5:30-7:30 p.m. Registration is required. •“Tell Me A Story–7”: The seventh annual storytelling festival featuring workshops and performances with Tradition Keepers: Black Storytellers of WNY. Pick up registration forms at the library.

All Evens are Free and Open to the Public!

READERS ARE LEADERS

BIDS ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Sealed bids for Project Nos. 44409-C, 44409-E, comprising separate contracts for Construction Work and Electrical Work, Decommission Clear Lake Water Treatment and Transmission Facilities, Collins Correctional Facility, Middle Road, Collins (Erie County), NY, will be received by the Office of General Services (OGS), Design & Construction Group (D&C), Contract Administration, 35th Fl., Corning Tower, Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12242, on behalf of the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, until 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 13, 2015, when they will be publicly opened and read. Each bid must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders and must be accompanied by a certified check, bank check, or bid bond in the amount of $64,000 for C and $1,500 for E. All successful bidders on a multiple trade project or the successful bidder with a bid over $200,000 on a single trade project, will be required to furnish a Performance Bond and a Labor and Material Bond in the statutory form of public bonds required by Sections 136 and 137 of the State Finance Law, each for 100% of the amount of the Contract estimated to be between $1,000,000 and $2,000,000 for C and under $25,000 for E. The requirement for Labor and Material and Performance Bonds may be waived on a bid under $200,000 on a single trade project. Designated staff are Frank Peris and Carl Ruppert in the Bureau of Contract Awards, telephone (518) 474-0203, fax (518) 473-7862 and John Lewyckyj, Director of Contract Administration, telephone (518) 474-0201, fax (518) 486-1650. As a condition of award, within 48 hours of receipt of the proposed Contract Agreement from the State, the low bidder shall return the Contract Agreement to the State, properly executed, along with the Bonds if required by said Agreement. Low bidders who cannot meet these provisions may be subject to disqualification and forfeiture of the bid security. The only time prospective bidders will be allowed to visit the job site will be at 10:00 a.m. on April 30, 2015 at the Water Plant, 3562 Genesee Road, Lawton, NY. Phone the office of Kim Himes, (716) 532-5151 a minimum of 72 hours in advance of the date to provide the names of those who will attend the pre-bid site visit. It is the policy of the State and the Office of General Services to encourage meaningful minority business enterprise participation in this project by contractors, subcontractors and suppliers who perform commercially useful functions under the Contract, and all bidders are expected to cooperate in implementing this policy. The Bidding and Contract Documents for this Project are available on compact disc (CD) only, and may be obtained for an $8.00 deposit per set, plus a $2.00 per set shipping and handling fee. Contractors and other interested parties can order CD’s on-line through a secure web interface available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Please use the following link at the OGS website for ordering and payment instructions: http://www.ogs.ny.gov/bu/dc/esb/acquirebid.asp. For questions about purchase of bid documents, please send an e-mail to D&C.Plans@ogs.ny.gov, or call toll free at 1-877647-7526. For additional information on this project, please use the link below and then click on the project number: https://online.ogs.ny.gov/dnc/contractorConsultant/esb/ESBPlansAvailableIndex.asp. John D. Lewyckyj, Contracting Officer Director, Contract Administration OGS - Design & Construction Group

BID Legal Notice Supportive Services Corporation is compiling a list of vendors and subcontractors to supply insulation, air sealing and HVAC services and materials. Interested vendors may contact Ken Birkemeir at 716-685-6252 to be on a contractor solicitation list.

READERS ARE LEADERS

COUNTY OF ERIE ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS FOR THE ERIE COUNTY HOLDING CENTER – 2014 VARIOUS RENOVATIONS – PHASE II LOCKER ROOM RENOVATIONS ECDPW PROJECT NO. GW-14-05 Separate sealed bids for: General Construction, Plumbing & Fire Protection, Mechanical and Electrical work for the above project will be received by the County’s Commissioner of Public Works in Suite 1400 of the Rath County Office Building, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York 14202 until 10:30 AM local time on May 7, 2015 at which time they will be opened and read aloud. MBE/WBE requirements may apply to this project. Additional information must be found at: www.erie.gov/dpw/

NOTICE TO BIDDERS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that sealed proposals for the rebid of the Erie County Sewer District No. 3 Southtowns AWTF Sewage Sludge Incinerator Emissions Upgrade Contract No. 54STP-D Electrical Construction will be received by the Commissioner of the Erie County Department of Environment and Planning on May 1, 2015 until 10 A.M., local time, at 95 Franklin Street, Room 1034, Buffalo, New York, 14202, at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud in Room 1004. The contract is located at the Southtowns Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility, S-3690 Lake Shore Road, Hamburg, NY. Work of the Electrical contract comprises the project for the construction of improvements and upgrades to two existing fluidized bed incinerators. Bidders are advised that a pre-bid meeting for the construction of this project is scheduled for April 17, 2015, at 10 A.M., Conference Room at the Southtowns Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility, S-3690 Lake Shore Road, Hamburg, NY. Attendance is strongly encouraged. A site tour will follow the pre-bid meeting. Plans are on file and may be examined at the office of the Erie County Department of Environment and Planning, 10th Floor, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York 14202. Copies of the contract documents, plans and specifications may be examined and purchased at the office of GHD Consulting Services Inc., 200 John James Audubon Parkway, Suite 101, Amherst, NY 14228. The deposit for each set of contract documents shall be $100.00 in the form of two checks or money orders, each in the amount of one-half the deposit, and made payable to the Erie County Comptroller. Any bidder requesting a set of plans and specifications mailed to their office must arrange for a pre-paid delivery service or mail carrier. The envelope containing the bid must be sealed, addressed to the Erie County Commissioner of Environment and Planning and must be clearly and correctly designated as “Erie County Sewer District No. 3 Southtowns AWTF Sewage Sludge Incinerator Emissions Upgrade, Contract 54STP-D – Electrical Construction. Any bids not delivered in person shall be mailed to the Erie County Commissioner of Environment and Planning, 95 Franklin Street, Room 1034, Buffalo, New York 14202, and received prior to the time set for the bid opening. Any bidder returning such plans and specifications in good condition within thirty (30) days following the award of the contract or the rejection of bids will be refunded the full amount of the deposit. Non-bidders will be refunded one-half the deposit. Any bidder requesting more than one (1) set of plans and specifications may purchase the excess, but it is understood that they are not returnable. No refund will be made for documents returned after the thirty-day period. Erie County Sewer District No. 3 is an exempt organization under the Tax Law, and is exempt from payment of Sales and Compensating Use Taxes which are to be incorporated into the project and which are to be separately sold by the Contractors to the Owner prior to incorporation into the project, pursuant to the provisions of the contract. These taxes are not to be included in the bid. Sales tax will be due on all materials purchased by a Contractor which are either “consumable” or rental property used by the Contractor in connection with the construction or repair. Each proposal must be accompanied by a certified check payable to the Erie County Comptroller or by a bid bond from a Surety Company acceptable to the County Attorney, in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the total base bid, as surety for execution of the contract. The successful bidder will be required to furnish Payment and Performance Bond, each in an amount equal to 100 percent of the contract award. Attention of the bidder is called particularly to requirements with respect to conditions of employment to be observed, minimum wages rates to be paid under the contract, Affirmative Action requirements for Equal Employment Opportunity, along with the Minority Business Enterprise Utilization Commitment. Bidders are also advised that Part “A” of the Erie county Minority Business Enterprise/Women’s Business Enterprise Utilization Report be submitted with the bid or no later than three (3) business days after the bid opening. The attention of the bidder is called particularly to the provisions of Erie County Local Law No. 2-2006, known as the “Erie County Workforce Development and Diversification New York State Certified Worker Training Program”, to have in place and provide written proof at the time of bid, a New York State Certified Worker Training Program, either intentional to the Contractor or Subcontractor and/or through an organization servicing several Contractors or Subcontractors, appropriate for the type and scope of work to be performed. In the alternative, Rules and Regulations pertaining to Local Law No. 2-2006 allows the Bidder to provide a statement as to the inapplicability, lack of career opportunities, and/or that the magnitude of the contract would make apprentices impractical. Bidders shall also provide affirmation of its commitment toward acceptable achievement or progress toward the County of Erie workforce development and diversification goal of thirty percent minority and female participation combined in project personnel including trades people, trainees, journeymen, apprentices and supervisor staff. The attention of the bidder is called to the provisions of Article 5A of the General Municipal Law which requires the bidder to execute a certificate of non-collusion and to conform with the other provisions of Article 5A outlined in the specifications. A form for such certificate accompanies the bid form. Unless it is property executed, the bid will not be accepted. The right to reject any and all bids, to waive any informalities in, or to make any award to other than the low bidder, should it be deemed to be in the best interest of Erie County Sewer District No. 3 and in accordance with Law, are herewith reserved. No bidder may withdraw his bid within 45 days after the date set for the opening thereof, but may withdraw same anytime prior to the scheduled time for opening bids. BY ORDER OF: Joseph L. Fiegl, P.E. Deputy Commissioner Department of Environment and Planning Dated: April 10, 2015 Published: April 13, 2015


Classified

Challenger Community News • April 15, 2015

EMPLOYMENT

RFP REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Sealed Proposals will be received until 2:00 pm on Friday, May 22nd, 2015 at the office of Harter Secrest & Emery LLP located at 1600 Bausch & Lomb Place, Rochester, NY 14604 by the Rochester Joint Schools Construction Board (“RJSCB” or “Owner”), Attention: Peter Abdella, General Counsel, for the Request for Proposals for Program Management Services for Phase 2 of the Rochester Schools Modernization Program (“Project”). Requests for Information (“RFI”) are to be submitted electronically to the RJSCB at: PMRFP@rjscb.org during the restricted period until May 1st, 2015 at 2:00 pm. The Owner will not accept or respond to questions from prospective bidders received orally or by facsimile. The purpose of this Request for Proposals is to identify qualified firms or project teams to provide the Rochester Joint Schools Construction Board with Program Management services for a $435 million project to renovate up to 25 school buildings plus a District Wide Technology project in the Rochester City School District (the “Rochester Schools Modernization Program”). The RFP is for Phase 2 of the Program. Hard Construction costs are expected to exceed $300 million. The RFP may be obtained at the following websites: RJSCB site: www.rcsdk12.org/rsmp RCSD site: www.rcsdk12.org City of Rochester site: www.cityofrochester.gov Bidclerk: www.bidclerk.com Builder’s Exchange: www.robex.com Bidnet site: www.bidnet.com NYS Contract Reporter site: www.nyscr.ny.gov Sincerely, Thomas Richards, Chair – RJSCB Thomas Renauto, Executive Director – RJSCB By order of the Rochester Joint Schools Construction Board

BUFFALO & ERIE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Please check out our website at:

CHARTER SCHOOL OF INQUIRY

http://www.buffalolib.org/content/employment-opportunities/job-postings

Help Wanted: Drivers

Owner Operators:

BID COUNTY OF ERIE ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS For Elma Meadows Golf Course Automatic Irrigation System Sealed bids for: Irrigation Construction work for the above project will be received by the County’s Commissioner of Public Works in Suite 1400 of the Rath County Office Building, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York 14202 until 10:30 AM local time on May 13, 2015 at which time they will be opened and read aloud. MBE/WBE requirements may apply to this project. Additional information must be found at: www.erie.gov/dpw/

404 Edison Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14215 Giving parents a choice and children a chance. A new Kindergarten through Grade 6 Charter School on the east side of Buffalo (one block off Eggert Road)

Dedicated Lanes: Mt. Juliet, TN - Tonawanda, NY. Two runs a week. Home every other day! Email: smichael@ilgi.com or 937-832-9350 x243

Opening August 2015 with Grades K, 1 and 2

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!

Instructional Classroom Teachers (6) Teacher Assistants (6) Special Education Teacher ESL Teacher Music Teacher Art Teacher Physical Education Teacher Literacy Coach Librarian / Media Specialist

Looking for exceptional talent to become part of a team that conspires to ensure children’s success.

HIRING ALL POSITIONS

Administrative Director of Operations Administrative Assistant / Receptionist

COUNTY OF ERIE 95 FRANKLIN STREET DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES BUFFALO, NEW YORK

County of Erie, New York RFP RELEASE The Erie County Department of Social Services is seeking proposals from qualified not-for-profit agencies to provide services to children and families in Erie County. The following RFP packets can be found at http://www.erie.gov beginning on April 17, 2015. RFP # 1510VF: Intensive Preventive Services RFP # 1511VF: Independent Living and Youth Engagement Services RFP # 1512VF: Parent Training Services RFP # 1513VF: Respite Services A complete copy of the RFP package can also be obtained by contacting Judith Kolmetz, Assistant Coordinator of Quality Assurance, at 716-858-7932, or via Judith.Kolmetz@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 for each of these RFPs are due to the Erie County Department of Social Services, 95 Franklin Street, Room 856, Buffalo, New York 14202, by 4:00 p.m. (EST) on May 15, 2015. Erie County reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and waive any informality. Al Dirschberger, PhD. Commissioner of Social Services

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School Nurse (part-time) Go to www.charterschoolofinquiry.org to learn more about the Charter School of Inquiry and to see all job descriptions and instructions for applying. For questions, email CharterSchoolOfInquiry@gmail.com or call (716) 866-3876.

BID Invitation to Bid Community Hope Builders CDC Inc. invites sealed bids for the new construction of Mt. Aaron Manor to be located at 528 Genesee Street, Buffalo, NY 14204. Beginning Monday, April 20th, 2015 at 12:00pm, bidding document packages may be viewed and purchased through Avalon Document Services online Planroom website at http://www.avalonbuff-planroom.com, under “Public Jobs”, or ordered by phone at 716-995-7777. There will be an optional pre-bid meeting Monday, April 27, 2015 at 2:00pm at Mt. Aaron Missionary Baptist Church – 540 Genesee Street, Buffalo, NY 14204. Sealed proposals for the project will be received until 12:00pm on Friday, May 1, 2015 at the office of HHL Architects – 172 Allen Street, Buffalo, NY 14201. The work will be subject to the equal employment opportunity requirements. Sealed bids will be publicly opened and read aloud Friday, May 1, 2015 at 12:00pm at HHL Architects – 172 Allen Street, Buffalo, NY 14201. Any questions regarding this project, please refer to Manuel Rivera, 716-885-0743.

It Pays to A D V E RT ISE !

advertising @thechallengernews.com


COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Challenger Community News • April 15, 2015

Wednesday April 15

NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS

3-WAY

MID-0408 EVE- 4546

MID - 5521 EVE - 0448

MID- 3666 EVE- 3834

MID- 0046 EVE- 1711

MID -5881 EVE- 8677

MID-0461 EVE-0585

15-17-19-26-38

TAKE 5

2-22-24-25-28 1-12-32-33-35 21-28-30-31-38

17-18-29-31-34

18-19-29-30-31

14-39-41-48-55-56 #40

LOTTO

SUN 4/5 MON 4/6 TUES 4/7 WED 4/8 THURS 4/9 FRI 4/10 SAT 4/11 MID-427 MID-382 MID-347 MID-431 MID-567 MID-149 MID-457 EVE-108 EVE-940 EVE-118 EVE-642 EVE-844 EVE-400 EVE-096 MID- 4453 EVE-5645

WIN 4

HOT TIPS

202 648

514

111

Zakiyyah’s Rundown (ZR) 896-468-901-084-365-800-103-785-457-960529-186-657-350-954-689-955-467-809-074657-906-671-978-010-743-234-680-468-089902-325-561-635-278-435-780-108-657 “its In The Stars” Billy Bye Bye Sez: 189-901-659-514-1001447-1645-4444-8888 “Believe in miracles but don’t depend on them”

APRIL MONTHLY VIBES

782-187-678-890347-036

Aquarius -681-972-897-103 Pisces - 136-663-169-166 Cancer - 285-123-018 Aries - 699-370-790-267 Taurus - 796-312-661-931 Gemini-652-106-305-257-817 Leo-210-840-345-312-315 Virgo -562-174-748-521 Libra -238-865-117-600 Scorpio - 679-411-956-729 Sagittarius - 147-685-923-508 Capricorn: 583-269-508-571

quick money $$$$ THE NUMBER BOOK 189-809-444 886-980-422 322-522-355 800-592-390 394-833-924 127-909-418 927-313-466 124-550-525 583-269-508 Grandma’s APRIL Picks O93-234 563-167-096-743-

Powerful New Energy Shift for Chinese New Year of the Sheep, Lucky Number “8.” This year marks 4017 Years of Celedration. “Watch your temper!”

Best Triple for Month of APRIL “444”!

Doubles - 778-335-881-883

Bee’s Pix:133

“All My Children”

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

COMBO: 252, 228

18

14-17-25-29-30

11-15-28-31-40-44 #22

910 730

998

“An Alternative to the School to Prison Pipeline Information Session and Summer Youth Initiative”: A Public Discussion, 5:30 p.m., Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Ave; hosted by Legislator Betty Jean Grant, Habib Johnson, YEEP and We Are Women Warriors. 462-1565 for more info. Board of Education Meeting: 5:30 p.m., Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Arts, 450 Masten Ave. cor. E. Ferry St. Delavan Grider Community Center “Lunch And Learn” For Seniors:12 noon, Delavan Grider Community Center For more information call 896-7021. Khametic Ascendants: 9-10 a.m. & 12:30 am (after midnight), public Access Channel 20. Public Meeting Notice Board of the Westminster Community Charter School: 3 p.m. M&T Bank, One M&T Plaza - 19th Floor, downtown. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Family Support Groups Meeting: free & open to the public; 7 p.m., St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 4007 Main St. 716-226-6264. The Durham Central City Baby Café: every Wednesday and Thursday 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. 200 E. Eagle in the Durham Outreach Center. Dinner is free! Doris Gayles 885-6348.

Challenger Hits

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

Midday

New Documentary Film: 1971: Before Watergate, Wikileaks & Edward Snowden, there was Media, Pennsylvania, presented by the Buffalo Committee Against State Repression, 7p.m., Burning Books, 420 Connecticut Street.

*457-ZR (Straight) 149-Number Book (bx) 567-ZR & Number Book (bx) *431-Luckie Duckie (Straight & bx)* 347-Grandma’s April Picks, Zr (bx)

Evening

096-Grandma’s April Picks(Straight) & ZR (bx) 108-Zr (Straight), Cancer (bx) LUCKIE DUCKIE

202 335 -2015-4444

134-431-143

648*123*104

980-422-809

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

189-444-886-202

322-522-412-432-421423

3-Way Winning Numbers Last Year

04/24/2014 Evening 04/24/2014 Midday 04/23/2014 Evening 04/23/2014 Midday 04/22/2014 Evening 04/22/2014 Midday 04/21/2014 Evening 04/21/2014 Midday 04/20/2014 Evening 04/20/2014 Midday 04/19/2014 Evening 04/19/2014 Midday 04/18/2014 Evening 04/18/2014 Midday 04/17/2014 Evening 04/17/2014 Midday 04/16/2014 Evening 04/16/2014 Midday 04/15/2014 Evening

2014

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

Thursday April 16 East Delavan Branch Library Honors Community Leaders: 3-5:30 p.m. w/ meet & greet reception; free and open to the public; 896-4433 for info. Community Forum on The School Superintendent Search: Makowski ECC, 1095 Jefferson Ave. 6 p.m. Against Equality: “Queer Revolution, Not Mere Inclusion,” Ryan Conrad at Burning Books, 7p.m., Burning Books, 420 Connecticut Street. The Durham Central City Baby Café: every Wednesday and Thursday 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. 200 E. Eagle in the Durham Outreach Center. Dinner is free! Doris Gayles 885-6348. Friday April 17 Jazz Vesper @ First Shiloh Baptist Church: An evening of Jazz and Praise Featuring Rick Fleming Jazz Combo & More! @ 6 pm. Reception to follow. Tickets $15 per person. For tickets, call 830-6755 or 860-9723. Salvation Army Golden Age Center Spring Fling Gala: 960 Main St., 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. 888-6261 for info and tickets. A Gala to Benefit Jericho Road’s Global Health Outreach in Sierra Leone: The Adam’s Mark Hotel, 120 Church Street at 6 p.m. http://jrchc.org/Registration-SierraLeone.aspx Saturday April 18 Legacy Tea Honoring the Ladies of Humboldt Parkway Commnity: 2:30 – 4:30 p.m., Canisius College Student Center, 128 Hughes Ave.; 883-0529 or email rocc.execdir@gmail.com Community Forum on The School Superintendent Search: East high School, 820 Northampton St. 8:30 a.m. . “Saving Our Girls: A Nation Can Rise No Higher Than Its Women”: Keynote address by the Minister Louis Farrakhan, live via Webcast, Pratt Community Center, 42 Pratt Street. Free. Doors open at 10 a.m. program 10:30 a.m. Bruch will be served. For more information call (716)248-5834 or (770)256-3271. CALENDAR CONTINUED PAGE 19


Challenger Community News • April 15, 2015

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Saturday April 18

Saturday April 18

Sunday April 19

Monday April 20

S.N.U.G. “Stop The Shooting” Community Rally for Peace in the Streets: 4-7 p.m., speakers, free food, music, Signature Clothing parking ot Walden & Bailey.

CAO First Time Home Buyers Workshop: 10am-1p.m., 564 Dodge St. Bldg.#400; banks, attorneys, real estate agents, credit counseling/budgeting; 881-6543 for info and reservations. Every 3rd Saturday of the month.

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Take An Artist to Lunch Event: 1 p.m., Hyatt Regency; honoring Valeria A. Cray, Eva M. Doyle, Annette L. Christian, Stacey Robinson and Imari Rita Renee Johnson.

African Consciousness Workshop: 6-7:45 p.m., Merriweather Library; Jefferson @ Utica; every Monday. Public invited.

The SSJ Sister Karen Klimczak Center for Nonviolence fundraiser: 3 pm at St. Columba-Brigid Church, 75 Hickory Street. Tickets $25 362.9688, online at www.sisterkarencenter.org, or at the door.

Khametic Ascendants: 9-10 a.m. & 12:30 am (after midnight), public Access Channel 20.

Crochet Group: 2 PM, 402 Clinton St., Call (716) 8471020 for more info. Jazz Concert and Brunch: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Calvary CME Church, 1007 Ellicott St. 8531426 for tickets.

SEE YOU AT THE EVENTS!

Wednesday April 22

The Durham Central City Baby Café: every Wednesday and Thursday 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. 200 E. Eagle in the Durham Outreach Center. Dinner is free! Doris Gayles 885-6348. Health and Healing Circle: 2-4 pm 70 Harvard Place; for info: myhealthyadvantage@ yahoo.com or call 218-0373 Thursday April 23 HOME Celebrates 52 Years of Service: 5 p.m., Lafayette Hotel; Pastor George Nicholas speaker. 854-1400 ext. 17. Friday April 24 Mary B. Talbert Civic and Cultural Club Scholarship Gala: 6 p.m., Salvatore’s Italian Gardens; ;603-9281 for ticket information.

19


20

Challenger Community News • April 15, 2015

IF SOMEONE YOU LOVE HEARS “IT’S CANCER”

PLEASE ASK THEM TO SPEND JUST

ONE DAY WITH US BEFORE THEY MAKE ANY SURGERY OR TREATMENT DECISIONS

JustOneDayWithUs.Org Please call 1.877.275.7724. Elaine Bauer and her team are here to assist.


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