Challenger Community News January 7, 2015

CHALLENGER

SERVING BUFFALO, ROCHERSTER, NIAGARA FALLS AND SURROUNDING AREAS

| F R E E | JANUARY 7-14, 2015 2014 STORY OF THE YEAR:

Too Many Lives Lost: A Community in Crisis PG. 3

INTERNATIONAL

Cuba Won’t Hand Over Assata Shakur! PG. 4

Selma

The March Goes On….

Fifty years separate the events in this important film and the headlines of 2014, yet it feels as though little has changed…PG. 8

INSIDE ROCHESTER

White and Elliott Re-Elected President and Vice President of Rochester School Board PG. 2

PG. 7

Remembering the Dream:

City Wide Celebrations to Honor Dr. Martin Luther King

Tips on How to Survive Police Encounters PG. 5

INSIDE ROCHESTER

Challenger Community News • January 7, 2015

Commissioner White

Commissioner Elliott

White and Elliott Re-Elected President and Vice President of Rochester School Board

James Baldwin

Project Baldwin with David Shakes and Commissioner Van Henri White has been re-elected Presi- the North Star Players

dent of the Rochester Board of Education, and Commissioner Cynthia Elliott has been re-elected Vice President of the Board for the 2015 calendar year.

Both commissioners have provided leadership and guidance to the Rochester City School District during the 2014 calendar year and throughout their tenure on the Board.

Their record of service on the Board reflect their unwavering commitment to promoting excellence in public education for students and families of the Rochester community.

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

By Robert Harris - Youth Prison Prevention Project

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Taje Rollins

’m sure everyone is sick and tired of constantly reading about youth who are committing crimes, killing each other, and being sentenced to prison time.

The Youth Prison Prevention Project has vowed to present to you on a regular basis youth in Rochester NY that are doing positive things; yet whom are virtually unknown.

These youth have defied the odds and the negativity of their environment!!!

Taje Rollins is our first featured youth!!! This young man grew up in the southwest area of Rochester (Jefferson Ave); attended grade school at George Mather Forbes School #4, and High School at School of the Arts.

Currently a student at Buffalo State College, Taje is the Public Relations Chairman of the African American Student Organization on campus.

Taje’s role models in the past were his basketball coach (Sly) at the Boy’s and Girl’s Club, his older cousin Anthony who Taje Rollins was a former promising basketball player who was injured and is now a teacher in Maryland, and his mother Latsha.

Latasha instilled respect, responsibility, accountability, education, and hard work into Taje. He recalls in the past being put on punishment by his mom; she made him miss a few basketball games because his grades sunk. Taje quickly got it together because he really wanted to be on the basketball team.

Taje now aspires to be a role model to other youth by setting his career goal as a high school guidance counselor. Taje believes that he can help youth at that stage in their lives from an educational and career standpoint.

His words to the youth is to “KNOW YOURSELF” – “DON’T ALLOW ANYONE ELSE TO DEFINE WHO YOU ARE.” Stay positive, moral, learn, and seek personal growth.

Explore - Do not be afraid to venture out and don’t be embarrassed to display your gifts and talents in public (especially in front of your friends that may laugh, ridicule, or criticize you).

Continued Page 10

Friday,Jan. 9 @ 7 pm James Baldwin was a noted African American writer and civil rights activist, as well as a prolific writer of novels, poetry, short stories, plays and essays. This program will explore his work, including poetry, monologues, and excerpts from “The Amen Corner,” followed by a discussion with the actors. $5 suggested donation.

RSVP BLACK HERITAGE MONTH ACTIVITIES *Black Heritage Month Celebration: MLK Youth Day Summit: Saturday, Jan. 24, 7 – 8:30 p.m., Central Library, 115 South Ave. Ticketed event; advanced registration required; sponsored by the greater Rochester Martin Luther King Jr. Commission; For more info call 311 or go to www. cityofrochester.gov/bhm *Black Heritage Month Celebration: 150 Ancestors Reception: Thursday, January 29, 5:30-7 pm, City Hall Atrium; For more info call 311 or go to www.cityofrochester.gov/bhm *Black Heritage Month Celebration: Black History Conference, Saturday, January 31, 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m., REOC Campus, 161 Chestnut St., Tickets $10 general; For more info call 311 or go to www.cityofrochester.gov/ bhm

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738 UNIVERSITY AVE. 585-563-2145

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RCSD School

EXPO

Explore. Interact. Decide.

Explore options available for grade 7-12 students.

Interact with staff at school exhibits to learn more about what they offer.

Placement staff will be there to assist with the school selection process. Early registration will be available.

Saturday, January 10 10 am to 3 pm

MCC Damon City Campus • 228 East Main Street FREE parking in the Mortimer Street garage Application deadline for grades 7 and 9: January 30

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Challenger Community News • January 7, 2015

2014 Story of the Year:

Too Many Lives Lost: A Community in Crisis

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he big story in our community in 2014 was the obscene number of untimely deaths of 62 men and women in this city - all too many of them young and Black at the hands of their peers. Truly we are a community in crisis and the victims – including those who shoot and kill – are all a reflection of a violent, racist, twisted society; one that places little value on human life and who’s god is money. Somewhere along the way we lost direction and purpose and assimilated into the insanity; failing an entire generation. We salute the many organizations and individuals of good will and faith who are constantly trying to make a difference in whatever capacity they can. And we acknowledge for the record that the majority of our youth are good and talented and law abiding. But one death is one too many. And 62 is simply unacceptable. It is a huge mountain we face. But not insurmountable. We just have to keep the faith – the kind that brought our ancestors thru the crossing and the holocaust of enslavement. We have to keep climbing until we reach the top (and we’re not talking about the corporate ladder….)

The following list of those we lost was compiled by the Buffalo Police Department. Sadly only approximately 14 of the 62 violent deaths have been solved. Our condolences to all the families who lost a loved one: gone too soon…

*Yolanda Singletary Age 25 *Dustin Ortiz Maldonado Age 27 *Damario McCain Age 22 *Damone Wiggins Age 32 *Malik Evans Age 19 *Barrie Woods Age 32 *Brian Dombek Age 52 *Jeremy E. Thompson Age 27 *Robert C. Bennett Sr. Age 70 *Antoine Holt Age 33 *Jason Ramirez Age 38 *Ameer Al-Shammari Age 13 *Andre Edwards Age 42 Joshua Beason *Age 27 *George R. Waddell Age 48 *Jacob T. Noe Age 8 *James Soler Age 50 *Arthur Parsons Age 21 *Deshawn White Age 38 *Victor Hernandez Age 30

*Benjamin M. Sweetwine Age 30 *Vernon Reeves Age 34 *Ivanilson Mendes Age 20 *James McDaniel Age 57 *Jonathan Smith Age 20 *Tyneisha Pettiford Age 29 *Shamel O. Parker Age 37 *William C. Sager Jr. Age 28 *Manuel Mateo Age 51 *Raymond F. Patterson III Age 14 *Ronnie Scott Age 17 *Dawud Lawson Age 23 *Benjamin Gerald Age 31 *Deverin White Age 30 *Myron Maclin Age 40 *Kylil Young Age 22 *Gary Hooser Age 21 *David Laguerre Age 27 *Jerald Goldsmith Age 52 *Shaquille Huffman Age 21

*Paris Lewis Age 38 *Kevin R. Hogue Age 36 *Shmerea Nailor Age 17 *David Skipper Age 22 *Natalie Thompson Age 45 *John Wesley Age 32 *Rafael Martinez Age 57 *Naim Holt Age 19 *Dominque Harris Age 20

*Cesar Luis DavilaRamirez Age 20 *Christopher Pratt Age 25 *Gary P. Noziere Age 38 *Yolonzol Green, Jr. Age 24 *Terrell Taylor Age 24 *Darren L. Rice Age 20 *Tracy Avery Age 19 *Lewis Browning Age 61 *Jamilah Furquan Age 16 *Willie Barksdale Age 44 *Kendra Nicole Hill Age 23 *Matthew Tucker Age 24 *Denell A. Baker Age 28

AREA BRIEFS

LIEUTENANT COLONEL BUSBY

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Buffalo District is proud to announce that Deputy District Commander Michael A. Busby has been promoted from the rank major to lieutenant colonel. Busby was joined by family and friends in a ceremony which took place at the Buffalo District headquarters on December 18. Congratulations! *DID YOU KNOW...The United States has the world’s largest prison population by far -- largely fed by the war on drugs -- at 500 per 100,000 people.

OATH OF OFFICE

CITY COURT JUDGE BARBARA JOHNSON LEE is sworn in by Judge E. Jeannette Ogden as her daughter and campaign manager Jamila Lee holds the Bible.

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SUPREME COURT JUDGE E. JEANNETTE OGDEN is sworn in by Hon. Samuel L. Green, NYS Supreme Court, as her mother holds the Bible.

he Ceremonial Courtroom in the Old Erie County Hall on Franklin Street was filled to capacity for the swearing in ceremony of newly elected City Court Judge Barbara Johnson Lee on December 23 and New York State Supreme Court Justice E. Jeannette Ogden on December 29. Both women received high praise for their qualifications, sensitivity, integrity, vision, and respect for the law. Humbly thanking voters, supporters and their families, these talented and highly respected women pledged a commitment to delivering equal, fair, but firm justice. Judge Ogden, who was victorious in an 8-county race, gave a special acknowledgement to all who made her cross endorsement possible, especially County Legislator Betty Jean Grant and Arthur “Champ” Eve. The chambers during both events was filled to capacity. Among those in attendance were such legendary law makers as Judge Barbara Sims, the first African American women to receive a law degree at UB and the first African American women Assistant District Attorney in Erie County and later Senior District Attorney in Erie County. And Judge Samuel Green, the first African American male to be elected to the New York State Supreme Court outside of New York City. He is also the first African American to be appointed to serve on the New York State Appellate Division. Also : former Chair of the Erie County Legislature Roger Blackwell, as well as African American Judges Supreme Court Judge Shirley Troutman, City Court Judges James McLeod, Craig Hannah, Judge Robert Russell, and Judge Debra Givens. The beautiful , yet emotional tribute to Judge Johnson Lee by her campaign manager and daughter Jamila Lee was especially touching. During Judge Ogden’s ceremony, a stirring rendition of the gospel song “I Won’t Complain” by Mr. Carl Hunley took us all to church in the chambers! Community Poet Laureate Karla Thomas wrote and recited an epic poem dedicated to Judge Ogden that brought the house down. We can all rest a little easier knowing that these two extraordinary and capable women of strong faith and exemplary character, are on the bench! Congratulations!

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LOCAL + NATIONAL + WORLD

Cuba Says It Won’t Hand Over Assata Shakur

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ew Jersey officials might have been hoping that with warming relations between the U.S. and Cuba, one of the FBI’s most wanted criminals, Assata Shakur, would be extradited to face judgment after fleeing the country.

However, according to the Associated Press, Cuba’s head of North American affairs, Josefina Vidal, has reiterated her country’s sovereign right to grant and maintain political asylum.

“Every nation has sovereign and legitimate rights to grant political asylum to people it considers to have been persecuted. ... That’s a legitimate right,” Vidal told AP when asked if extradition was a possibility. “We’ve explained to the U.S. government in the past that there are some people living in Cuba to whom Cuba has legitimately granted political asylum.

“There’s no extradition treaty in effect between Cuba and the U.S.,” she added.

Former Cuban President Fidel Castro granted Shakur

BY: BREANNA EDWARDS

asylum after she escaped from prison after being convicted of killing a New Jersey state trooper in 1973, AP notes.

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie wrote a letter to the White House that was made public over the weekend, calling Shakur’s asylum “an affront to every resident of our state, our country and, in particular, the men and women of the New Jersey State Police, who have tirelessly tried to bring this killer back to justice.”

“So Joanne Chesimard [Shakur’s former name], a cold-blooded cop killer, convicted by a jury of her peers, in what is, without question, the fairest and most just criminal-justice system in the world—certainly much more just than anything that’s happened in Cuba under the Castro brothers. She is now, according to an official of the Cuban government, persecuted,” the governor added in a live interview Monday on local TV in response to Vidal’s statement, according to AP. “These thugs in Cuba have

Assata Shakur

given her political asylum for 30 years. It’s unacceptable.”

Vidal pointed out that the U.S. has also sheltered wanted Cuban citizens.

“We’ve reminded the U.S. government that in its country they’ve given shelter to dozens and dozens of Cuban citizens,” she said. “Some of them accused of horrible crimes, some accused of terrorism, murder and kidnapping, and in every case, the U.S. government has decided to welcome them.”

PRAY FOR

PEACE

Challenger Community News • January 7, 2015

Blacks Arrested up to 10 Times More Police in Ferguson — which erupted into days of racially charged unrest after a White officer killed an unarmed Black teen — arrest Black people at a rate nearly three times higher than people of other races.

At least 1,581 other police departments across the USA arrest Black people at rates even more skewed than in Ferguson, a USA TODAY analysis of arrest records shows. Whatever the reasons, the results are the same: Blacks are far more likely to be arrested than any other racial group in the USA. In some places, dramatically so.

At least 70 departments scattered from Connecticut to California arrested black people at a rate 10 times higher than people who are not Black, USA TODAY found.

The unrest in Ferguson was stroked by mistrust among Black residents who complained that the city's police department had singled them out for years. For example, every year, traffic stop data compiled by Missouri's attorney general showed Ferguson police stopped and searched Black drivers at rates markedly higher than Whites.

Nationwide, blacks are stopped, searched, arrested and imprisoned at rates higher than people of other races. USA TODAY's analysis, using arrests reported to the federal government in 2011 and 2012, found that those inequities are far wider in many cities across the country.

SUSPICION IN DEARBORN More than half of the people Dearborn police arrested in 2011 and 2012 were black, according to reports they submitted to the FBI. By comparison, about 4% of the city's residents are black, as are about a quarter of the people who live in Metropolitan Detroit. Over those two years, the department reported arresting 4,500 Black people – 500 more than lived in the city. As a result, the arrest rate for Blacks, compared with the city's population, was 26 times higher than for people of other races.

T o measure the breadth of arrest disparities, USA TODAY examined data that police departments report to the FBI each year. For each agency, USA TODAY compared the number of black people arrested during 2011 and 2012 with the number who lived in the area the department protects. (The FBI tracks arrests by race; it does not track arrests of Hispanics.)

The review did not include thousands of smaller departments or agencies that serve areas with only a small black population. It also did not include police agencies in most parts of Alabama, Florida and Illinois because those states had not reported complete arrest data to the FBI. The review showed: • Blacks are more likely than others to be arrested in almost every city for almost every type of crime. Nationwide, black people are arrested at higher rates for crimes as serious as murder and assault, and as minor as loitering and marijuana possession.

• Arrest rates are particularly lopsided in some pockets of the country, including St. Louis' Missouri suburbs near Ferguson. In St. Louis County alone, more than two dozen police departments had arrest rates more lopsided than Ferguson's.

In nearby Clayton, Mo., for example, only about 8% of res dents are Black, compared with about 57% of people the police arrested, according to the city's FBI reports. Clayton's police chief, Kevin Murphy, said in a prepared statement that "Ferguson has laid bare the fact that everyone in law enforcement needs to take a hard look at how we can better serve our communities and address any disparities that have existed in our departments for too long."

• Deep disparities show up even in progressive university towns. USA TODAY found police in Berkeley, Calif., and Madison, Wis., arrested Black people at a rate more than nine times higher than members of other racial groups.

• Arrest rates are lopsided almost everywhere. Only 173 of the 3,538 police departments USA TODAY examined arrested black people at a rate equal to or lower than other racial groups.

(Excerpted from USA Today )

Ben Ammi Ben Israel

Spiritual leader of African Hebrew Israelites dies JERUSALEM — The spiritual leader of the African Hebrew Israelites, a movement that believes some Black Americans are the descendants of an ancient Israelite tribe, has died in the southern Israeli town where he brought his followers four decades ago.

Ben Ammi BenIsrael died Dec. 27 at the age of 75, the group said. He was born Ben Carter in Chicago in 1939. .

He maintained that some Black Americans were descendants of the biblical tribe of Judah. He said they migrated to West Africa after the destruction of the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem in A.D. 70 and were eventually sold as slaves to the United States centuries later.

In 1966, he had a vision that the angel Gabriel told him to “return to the holy land by way in which we came.”

He then gathered his few hundred followers, mainly from Chicago, and led them to Liberia, the West African republic settled by freed slaves in the 19th century. In a statement, the group said that time was spent “shedding the many detrimental habits that as an enslaved people, they had acquired.”

They moved to Israel in 1969 and settled in Dimona, in the southern Negev desert, which was then a melting pot for immigrants. “Ben Ammi’s immense love for the Land of Israel remained constant throughout his life from the initial awakening to his Hebraic roots,” the group said.

The group refused to convert to Judaism, even though it would have entitled them to citizenship. They considered themselves the true Jews of ancient Israel, and they followed a lifestyle they said was based on the Torah and Ben Israel’s teachings.

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Challenger Community News • January 7, 2015

Attorney JaHarr S. Pridgen to Fill Vacancy Left by Judge Ogden’s Election

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ayor Byron W. Brown last week announced the appointment of Buffalo attorney and Assistant District Attorney JaHarr S. Pridgen, Esq. to fill the vacant Buffalo City Court judgeship, as a result of the election of Judge E. Jeanette Ogden to New York State Supreme Court.

Ms. Pridgen was selected after Mayor Brown considered many candidates who had expressed an interest in the position and conducted multiple interviews.

A 2006 graduate of Thomas M. Cooley Law School in Lansing, Michigan and a 2002 graduate of the State University New York at Buffalo, Ms. Pridgen has been an attorney for over seven years, most recently serving as an Assistant District Attorney in the Erie County District Attorney’s Office as a member of the Felony Trial Bureau, where her practice includes a concentration on complex criminal litigation. Prior to her more

JAHARR S. PRIDGEN, ESQ.BUFFALO ATTORNEY and Assistant District Attorney, was appointed by Mayor Byron Brown to fill the vacant Buffalo City Court judgeship, as a result of the election of Judge E. Jeanette Ogden to New York State Supreme Court. Pictured from left Judge Thomas Amodeo; Pridgen’s husband Rev. Craig Pridgen and their 2 year old daughter, Jordin; Judge Jaharr S. Pridgen and Mayor Brown.

than six years of employment at the Erie County District Attorney’s Office, Ms. Pridgen worked as a Legislative Assistant to former Buffalo Common Council Member, Bonnie E. Russell (University District). Ms. Pridgen is a member of both the Western New York Chapter of the Women’s Bar Association of Western New York and the Minority Bar Association of

Western New York.

Ms. Pridgen resides in the City of Buffalo with her husband Craig Pridgen and their daughter Jordin.

“I believe Ms. Pridgen will be a tough and knowledgeable, but compassionate ...” stated Mayor Brown.

How to Survive Citizen/Police Encounters

By John V. Elmore, Esq

1.Never leave your home without ID 2.Always be polite and respectful when talking with police 3.Always keep your hands still and visible 4.When asked to show your identification move slow and deliberate 5.Never ask a police officer for his badge number or name 6.Never threaten to sue or report a police officer.

7.Never put your hands on a police officer.

8.If you are told you are under arrest follow the officers instructions without argument or questions.

9.A big mouth and a screw face will get you arrested 10.You do not have to consent to be searched or patted down, but you cannot resist a search or pat down.

11.In any police encounter your goal is to go home.

12.If your rights are violated let an attorney handle it.

13.If you are arrested exercise your right to remain silent.

14.The police do not have to tell you why they stopped you or if they arrest you why you are being arrested.

15.It is ok to ask police officers in a very police way “am I being detained or am I free to leave.”

16.If you are in a car and the police find a gun or drugs everyone in the car can be charged with possession.

17.You do not have to consent to a search of your home, but do not physically resist a search of your home.

18.You do not have to consent to a search of your automobile, but do not physically resist a search of a automobile.

19.If the police tell you to disperse; disperse.

20.If a police officer swears, curses or yells at you, respond in a very polite way.

21.Do not get into a fight with a police officer because you will not win.

22.Never run from a police officer.

23.Never get into a high speed chase with a police officer.

24.If the police pulls your car over turn on the dome lights, roll down the window and place both your hands on the steering wheel.

25.Do not make yourself a target by wearing or having stickers on a car that are offensive to police.

26.Do not play your music loud when driving a car.

27.The police do not have to read you your rights when they place you under arrest.

28.If arrested, never give a fake name.

29.Use common sense and good manners when dealing with the police.

30.Never speak to the media about a police encounter without consulting with an attorney first.

For more information contact: Attorney John V. Elmore 40 North Forest Road, Williamsville, New York 14221 716-300-0000 jve@johnvelmore.com

KEEPING AN EYE ON HISTORY

The 4th Eye On History Billboard currently graces the corner of Broadway and Michigan Avenue. The Billboard, sponsored by columnist/educator/historian Eva Doyle, features pictures of Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The Billboard announces Mrs. Doyle’s next lecture series “Great Voices From The Past.” A second Billboard with the same images can be seen on South Elmwood and Mohawk Street.

According to Mrs. Doyle, the goal of these billboards is to educate, promote positive images, and to remind everyone of the accomplishments of African Americans. The next Billboard will be up during Black History Month in February. For more information call 847-6010 or 507-5280.

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FAITH BASED

Home Coming Sunday The St. John’s AME Steward Board presents “Home Coming Sunday” Sunday, January 25 at 9:30am Sunday school and 11:00am worship service at St. John AME Church 917 Garden Ave, Niagara Falls New York . Rev. Dion Greer is Pastor.

Singing Song Service

A Singing Song Service (Church Renovation Project) will be presented by Sister Jackie Blackmon on Sunday, January 11 at 6 p.m. at Gospel Temple Life Changing Ministries, 143 Beard Avenue at the corner of Parker. The pastor is Willie J. Flurence. Featured guests will include the Gospel Temple Choir, Mother Pearl Shuford, Sister Teresa Baldwin, The Anderson Brothers, Pastor Deas & The Sons of God, Evangelist Hank Reed, Susan & Friends and Bro. Patrick Deas & the Sons of Thunder.

Challenger Community News • January 7, 2015

FBI Stepping In After KKK Vandalize Black Church in Florida As members of the Mount Olive Primitive Baptist Church arrived Wednesday night for choir practice, they drove up to “KKK” painted on the side of the church. This is the third predominantly black church in the county this week that has been a victim of vandalism by the KKK. The FBI has stepped in and is investigating these situations as hate crimes and is working with both the Florida Law Enforcement and Wakulla Sheriffs Department.

Bridge Hope Missionary Baptist Church and Pilgrim Rest Primitive Church were also vandalized on Sunday. Several street signs in the area have been painted with the KKK sign and a truck at the local golf course was hit as well.

“Women Praising God Through The Storm” The Women’s Day Committee of Saint John’s African Methodist Episcopal Church of Niagara Falls NY hosted a Women’s Day Kick-off Breakfast on January 3. The theme was “Women Praising God Through The Storm”. Speakers included Mrs. Cassandra Jackson – Coordinator, Mrs. Alicia Scott- RN, and Ms. Constance Mathews- Educator. Breakfast Co- Chairpersons were Sis. Denise Easterling and Sis. Darlene Brewer. Rev. Dion Greer Sr. is Pastor.

FAITH & FAMILY

Challenger Community News • January 7, 2015

Original Freedom Bishop Bronner to Riders to Attend Niagara Keynote City-Wide King Falls King Celebration Celebration On July 7, 1961, Hezekiah Watkins was a thirteen year old student at Rowan Junior High School in Jackson, Mississippi when he was arrested on for his participation in a sit-in at the Greyhound Bus Terminal in Jackson, Mississippi. He suffered beatings and other physical abuse.

Joining Watkins for a panel discussion will be Jessie James Davis, who was 19 when he was arrested and went on to be active as a Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) organizer during the 1960s; Fred Anderson, whose early experiences were of Hattiesburg and neighboring New Orleans, Louisiana and was also active in SNCC and was an organizer primarily in the Second Congressional District of Mississippi, Lowndes County, Alabama, and South West Georgia; and Barbara Bowie, a Kirby, TX activist whose brother was a rider and who is Founder and Program Director of the Dr. J R Bowie III Scholarship Foundation.

The Martin Luther King Celebration Program will take place on Sunday January 18, at 6pm at Kleinhans Music Hall.

The theme is THE COLOR OF UNITY : FOLLOWING THE DREAM. Bishop T. Anthony Bronner, Senior Pastor of Elim Christian Fellowship Ministry will be the keynote speaker.

Kleinhans will come alive as we honor Dr. King’s work and his legacy in song, dance, performing arts and word. Various pioneers and trailblazers of the Buffalo/Niagara area will be honored, namely, Dr. Stan Bratton, Sheila Brown, Miguel Santos, Alnisa Banks, Cariol J. Horne, Frank Merriweather, Barbara Nevergold and Dr. Frances Ilozue.

Students from area schools will receive an MLK Certificate for their volunteering service at the Celebration, and to encourage them to stay in school and pursue a higher education.

Participants will include the Hutch-Tech Band, Miss Barbara’s School of Dance, The Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus, The African Cultural Center Dancers, The Varsons Community Choir and special guests, THE RISE UP WNY CHOIR. Admission is free and is sponsored in part by M&T Bank, Wegmans Food and N.Y. State of Health. Bessie Patterson is the Coordinator.

The honorary chair for the evening is the Rev. Darius Pridgen.

The event is free and open to the public.

Dr. King Speaking Contest

William-Emslie YMCA Celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Columnist Eva M. Doyle will sponsor a Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. SpeakingContest on Saturday, January 17 from 2 - 5 p.m. at the Merriweather Library located at 1324 Jefferson Avenue. The contest is open to both adults and students in grades 4 - 12. Participants can select a quotation or part of a speech from Dr. King and give a 3 - 5 minute presentation. Participants can also write an original poem or personal tribute to Dr. King. For more information 847-6010 507-5280 or email ewriter52@aol.com.

On January 15, 2015, he will be among the guest speakers in Niagara Falls at the annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebrationat 6pm at Niagara Falls High School, 4455 Porter Road.

The William-Emslie YMCA welcomes you and your family to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Monday January 19. A celebration to honor Dr. King and the rich African American history of the Archie L. Hunter Foundation will take place from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm at the branch located at 585 William Street, This event is FREE and is open to those ages five years old and up. For more information please call the William-Emslie YMCA at 845-5440.

Buffalo African American Museum Committee Luther King Day Observance The civil rights movement began long before Rose Parks refused to give up her seat on a public bus or Dr. martin Luther King Jr. began his historic rise to fame as the leader of the Civil Rights Movement. Buffalo was a hub of activity for minority equality and advancement. It was a terminal on the Underground Railroad and the birth place of what became the NAACP. From 1927 to 1977 the center of that activity was the Michigan Avenue YMCA, located at 585 Michigan Avenue in Buffalo.

It served as the hub of all activity in the African American community from housing single Black men who could not get rooms in Buffalo hotels to woman’s organizations, sports, remedial job instruction, political groups and many other activities.

As part of the Buffalo Museum of Science observance of Dr. Martin Luther King’s birthday, the African American Museum Committee has undertaken to remember and commemorate the history that grew and spread throughout the country from the Michigan Avenue YMCA. On January 19, the committee, in collaboration with the Buffalo Museum of Science, presents an exhibit of the history of the Y. The photographic and video exhibit depicts the many activities and personalities that grew within the Y. The exhibit is significant because of the important history and contributions African Americans, many of whom became political and civic leaders in Buffalo, made to the building and growth of Buffalo. Many of these leaders are still alive today.

Admission to the Museum is free. The public is invited to come from 9 am to 4 pm and remember or, for many, to hear for the first time, how Buffalo’s history is tied to this important institution and how the Y’s contribution changed the landscape of Buffalo

Past President of TransAfrica, to Keynote New Hope Baptist Church 25th Annual MLK Scholarship Breakfast Pastor Herschel Chapman, Jr. and the Christian Education Scholarship Committee of New Hope Baptist Church are pleased to announce the upcoming celebration of the 25th - Silver Anniversary of the Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Breakfast. The breakfast will be held on Monday, January 19, at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center, 153 Franklin Street.

The MLK Scholarship Breakfast is a community service project that is committed to honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by carrying on his dream of educational equality. The proceeds from the breakfast is used to fund scholarships for deserving first semester college students who have recently graduated from a Buffalo Public high school.

This year’s keynote speaker, Nicole C. Lee, Esq., a native of Buffalo. Ms. Lee is the immediate past president of TransAfrica, which is a foreign policy organization.

Tickets are $35 per person

or $325 for a table of ten.

For more information please contact New Hope Baptist Church at (716) 883-0821 or the Program Chair, Retta Billingslea at (716) 835-4737.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Challenger Community News • January 7, 2015

Selma - The March Goes On It’s hard to believe, but there has never been a major motion picture that centers on one of this country’s most iconic figures: Martin Luther King Jr. But that’s about to change, with Selma, which opens nationwide on Friday, January 9.

Farewell To Buffalos Beloved Lance Diamond!

A wake will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, Jan 10 at Kleinhans Music Hall. The funeral will follow at noon.

The entertainer known as the hardest working man in Buffalo show business died Sunday,January4, but his memory will live on through his fans. Legendary entertainer Lance Diamond died after a heart issue forced him to cancel a New Year’s Eve performance at Milkie’s lounge on Elmwood Avenue where he performed regularly. “Show business was his wife, his children,” his publicist LaVerne Edmond said, noting his desire to please his fans. He dazzled his audience in tailor made suits with songs and stage moves, even taking off a cuff-link and throwing it to an appreciative fan. He often performed with the Goo Goo Dolls, beginning in the 1980’s.

Robby Takac said Lance Diamond was forever pleasing his audiences because they gave him the chance to do what he loved. Lance is seen on camera in a video saying, “I think everybody in this city knows what I’m about. That I’m wild and crazy. I live to love and I love to live in Buffalo, and Buffalo has been great to me.” Funeral arrangements for the formerly hardest working man in Buffalo show-business have been set. Pastor Darius Pridgen says a wake will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday Jan 10 at Kleinhans Music Hall. The funeral will follow at 12:00 p.m. We will miss you Lance, Thank You for such unforgettable entertainment!

A

va Duvernay's Selma couldn't be more timely.

The film (about the votingrights demonstrations and protests of 1965) depicts Black men and women standing up for their rights as citizens of the United States of America. You can't help but be saddened by just how closely these demonstrations -- and grievances -- continue to resonate in the protests following grandjury refusal to indict in the cases of Michael Brown and Eric Garner.

Fifty years separate the events in the film and the headlines of 2014 and it feels as though little has changed.

Politically motivated justices of the U.S. Supreme Court proclaim that President Lyndon Johnson's Voting Rights Act of 1965 has accomplished its goals and remove those protections, even as voter-suppression experts enact voter ID laws that affect primarily minority populations.

In our time of the 24-hour news-cycle, it's hard to keep the media attention focused where you want it. That was

Oprah Winfrey in a scene from “Selma.” one crucial strategy utilized trying to march across the

by Dr. Martin Luther King Edmund Pettus Bridge.

Jr. (David Oyelowo) against LBJ, a president reluctant to try to push the Voting Rights Act through.

The script by Paul Webb (significantly rewritten

by Duvernay, though she doesn't receive credit) begins with King receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964, then meeting with a self-congratulatory Johnson (Tom Wilkinson), still preening over passing civilrights legislation earlier that year.

King, however, doesn't want Johnson to rest on his laurels.

The film explores the tumult and the tactics of the civil rights movement, from King’s tense relationship with President Lyndon Johnson to the battle for voting rights for black Americans — a battle that reached a climax on Bloody Sunday, March 7, 1965, as state police beat peaceful protesters

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

9

Challenger Community News • January 7, 2015

ON STAGE *First Funk Tribute Show of 2015, Oscar’s Band will play a tribute to the music of Bootsy Collins, War and Chaka Khan.

When - Sunday, January 18, 8pm @ The Groove Lounge 1210 Broadway @ Lathrop Tickets $10, VIP $20 Doris Records - Groove Lounge Official after show jam session at - Mikes Lounge, 1343 Jefferson Ave.Info 222-2939. *Motown The Musical @ Sheas Performing Arts Center January 20-25. Tickets on sale now. For tickets (from $33-$78) call 1-800-7353000, go to www.ticketmaster.com or the Shea’s Ticket Office, 650 Main Street. For groups of 15 or more, call 829-1154. For more information go to www.sheas.org.

ON THE AIR: Sam Herbert can now be heard on his new radio show, “The Truth, Nothing But The Truth So Help Us God,” every Tuesday on 1080AM WUFO Radio from 1:30 to 2 p.m.

It aired for the first time this week. Congratulations Mr. Herbert!

*FALLSVIEW CASINO:

*Smokey Robinson, Friday, Jan. 8 @ 8:30 p.m. and Sat. Jan. 9 @ 9 p.m.,tickets start at $40; both shows at Fallsview Casino , Niagara Falls, Canada; tickets at all ticketmaster locations (1.877.833.3110).

See You At The Events

CELEBRATION!

On Saturday January 3rd B.E. Clothing celebrated its One Year Anniversary! The boutique, also known as “Home of the One of One,’ specializes in hard to find items and is owned by Lamar Pace who is also a designer. The celebration was complete with models, refreshments, violinists, poetry readings, music and of course lots of happy customers! Congrats Lamar!

B.E. Clothing is located at 40 Allen Street and open Tue. thru Sat. from 11am -7pm.

Support Our Advertisers!

Challenger Community News • January 7, 2015

Robbyn Sommerville: Scholar – Athlete!

R

obbyn A. Sommerville, scholar athlete, is 9 years old and an 8th grade student at Westminister Community Charter School.

Robbyn is giving academics and athletics her all.

She was chosen

by Health Science C h a rter High School girls basketball to play this season for them. She is more than happy to give them her 110% on the court this year as well as give WCCS the same in academics where her first semester grade point average is 86.20. Robbyn will be attending O’Hare Catholic High School in the fall under the leadership of Coach Nick O’Neil. Robbyn’s academic mentor is Sara Weisenbor and athletic mentors are Dwyane Wade of Miami Heat and her big brother, former graduate of WCCS De’cQuan Anderson. Westminister Charter under the leadership of Dr. Reagan from 2004-2008, is presently headed by Dr. Randolph.

Generations

10

Buffalo Ruff Ryders: New Pop Warner Little League Football Team Being Formed A new Pop Warner Little League Football team is being formed and its organizers are seeking sponsors, coaches and community support. The new team is called The Buffalo Ruff Ryders. What will be needed right away said Catrell “Murff” Beasley, are sponsors for football equipment and cheerleaders uniforms.

The team also needs coaches for special teams 130 and 90 pounds. The league will start in August.

Murff, a former Pop War-

ner Bills Little League coach, knows the value of little league football as it relates to young kids – especially the Pop Warner league. “It not only gets the kids off the streets and into something positive, it gets them outside the City of Buffalo,” he said pointing out the teams have the opportunity to travel . Pop Warner is a “Baby NFL” he explained and the young athletes also get a shot to play in the nationals every year.

For more information or

TAJE ROLLINS: ROCHESTER YOUTH continued In the end you will rise to a level that they will only dream of while they are stuck with a job that they hate.

Even though Taje was surrounded by a rough environment, he used the life skills that he learned from the people in that environment to positively push him to success.

We here at the Youth Prison Prevention Project are proud to present Taje Rollins to our reading audience. We encourage this youth man to continue his journey of excellence and we entreat him to pull up as many young African American men as he possibly can.

The Youth Prison Prevention Project has a weekly television show that airs on Time Warner, channel 20 every Saturday at 3pm in Buffalo NY. We have also expanded our television show to Time Warner, channel 15 in Rochester NY every Monday at 3:30pm and every Saturday at 4:30pm. Look for Taje Rollins to appear on our television shows very soon.

Robert A. Harris Sr. is the President and CEO of the Youth Prison Prevention Project. The focus of this youth program is to educate youth and parents on the traps of the streets and the traps of the prison system.

If you would like to become a guest or sponsor of our television shows please contact Mr. Harris at (716) 563 – 5515.

to become a sponsor, contact Murff at (716) 948-3470.

The Pop Warner league is a non-profit organization that provides youth football and

cheer & dance programs for participants in 42 states and several countries around the world. As the only national youth sports organization that

requires scholastic aptitude to participate, Pop Warner is committed to developing young people on the field and off.

OPINIONS

11

Challenger Community News • January 7, 2015

Buffalo Schools at the Crossroads:

A New Year but the same old agenda...

I

begin this column on the Buffalo Schools as I ended it last year, with critical news about the continuing struggle against attempts to “disassemble” our public school system. However, first I want to express my appreciation to the publishers of this paper for their generosity in providing this space each week. As previously stated, without the Black Press we would not have the “voice” to express our views and opinions on issues that affect our community. I also want to thank the numerous readers, who have told me how much they appreciate and learn from these articles. I would ask that every one of you continue to support this newspaper by spreading the word to others about the value of the Black Press and the need to keep these presses running.

As 2014 came to a close, a number of significant developments were unfolding which will impact the Buffalo Schools this year. These issues are ones that have potential to further damage the system, so I encourage readers to learn how to make their Barbara Seals views known about actions being taken at Nevergold the State as well as the local level that will negatively impact our school system and consequently our children’s education.

Commissioner John King is now the Senior Advisor to U.S. Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan. Although he is no longer in charge of the New York State Education Department it remains to be seen how he will use this influential position to affect our school district. A search is to be commenced for his replacement. But on the heels of his departure the Governor asked the Regent’s Chancellor Merryl Tisch and Acting Commissioner Elizabeth Berlin to provide their recommendations for an educational change agenda. Subsequently, they wrote a letter, which was made public on January 1st. The Chancellor cited Buffalo as a prime example of why legislation needs to be passed to allow the State to remove Boards of Education and install “school czars” to “fix” districts. We were singled out in spite of the fact that both the Rochester and Syracuse city schools have scores that are much lower than Buffalo’s. There are many reasons why a state takeover of the schools is a bad idea, including an abysmal track record when they took over the Roosevelt, NY district. More on this later.

In another move, just before he left, Commissioner King an nounced the creation of a new grant program. The State will provide up to $125,000 to encourage the integration of urban schools through the creation of programs that would attract “middle class” students to attend predominantly minority schools. Last year the State mandated that Buffalo develop a corrective action plan to deal with our “poor” implementation of public school choice (the right of parents to request transfer of their children from so called “failing” schools to one in “good standing”). We were forced to include a plan to reach out to suburban schools to enroll our students. Did the Commissioner forget that much of the response to just the inclusion of this “goal” in the plan was ugly and racist? I haven’t seen too much response yet to this proposal by King. But my other question is: What do neighborhood schools proponents have to say about this new grant? Furthermore, some studies have shown that “choice” contributes to the segregation of schools.

The eligible Districts have until mid-February to submit grant proposals. According to the guidelines, Buffalo could be eligible for up to three schools requesting this funding.

My final update has to do with the out-of-time schools.

“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

Selma to Montgomery 54 Miles, 50 Years, and letters Owner Says We Still Need to Walk Across that Bridge... Deli biased Practice Targets Part I i don’t mean to embarrass

I envy you, Mr. Million Dollar Hip-Hop Rapper Not because of the money that you make But because of the freedom you have in splitting a verb.

Whether on stage or off stage Society respectfully calls it poetry.

With my degrees, if I were to do the same, society as a whole would lynch me.

Even, perhaps, the NAACP Would not represent me.

Please forgive me Dr. King, And Ms. Sojourner Truth.

Like Walter Lee, in A Raisin In The Sun, My spirit remains muffled.

Mr. Hip-Hop Rapper oh, how I envy your freedom.

And not because of the money that you make But because you can exhale Sababu Norris Buffalo, New York (2013) Welcome to 2015! I have Five proposals were submitted for new phase-in schools at Bennett, East, Lafayette and School #39. The Board will begin to review these proposals in the next two weeks.

Community meetings will also be set up for your feedback. Community feedback is critical. There is also an expectation that one or more charter schools will submit a request to use space in one of these buildings. This is a critical time. The Board must make its final decisions on the school proposals by January 28th. The future of the four schools and the Buffalo School District, hinges on the decisions made by the Board.

But these decisions can be greatly influenced by the responses from the community.

So let us hear from you.

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

high hopes for this year. I hope 2015 will be a year of resolutions met and resolutions kept; and not just by us and individuals, as we strive to improve our health, find better employment, experience true love, or any other opportunity to enhance our lives; but also by our larger society, the world in which we live, and must live in together.

This poem is the reflection of a poet who is expressing a dilemma that most face at some point in life – the crisis of a double standard, or at least a blurred set of standards. This crisis can show up anywhere in many forms.

In industry it can be called The Peter Principle, which raises the dander of many workers who believe their hard work is not paying off as they witness less competent or less skilled co-workers achieve rewards. When most of us are taught hard work and honesty paves the way to success, we often find shrewd and dishonest people living large. I’m not saying that rappers are bad people, and neither is the poem, but it is confronting the blurred lines of what is acceptable as success, i.e. how on earth, and why on earth did Paris Hilton, the Kardashians, and the Housewives of everywhere, etc. get to be rich, famous and admired? These realities can certainly make us “ordinary” people wonder about justice in the world, and what things are really important in today’s society.

January 15, 2015 marks what would have been Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s 86th birthday had he not been struck down by a sniper’s bullet on April 4th 1968. Dr. King was a man who believed all of humanity was entitled to just and fair treatment. That meant fair wages for work, fair and equal treatment un-

der the law as prescribed in the constitution, the right to worship freely, and the right to dissent as part of living in a democracy. He was not afraid of revolution, but subscribed to the principle that peace Celeste and justice can Lawson o n l y c o m e about when approaching that need from a position of peace and justice.

Dr. King was an educated man, a man of strong Christian faith, a man who believed in following the path of non-violent civil disobedience in the footsteps of Mahatma Gandhi, also a pre-eminent man of peace, who met his demise through an assassin’s gun. Nonetheless, Dr. King was willing to take his peaceful protests to where ever they were needed – from the streets of Selma, Alabama to the grand mall of Washington, DC – he had a fearlessness that is desperately needed today from our leaders in putting aside political correctness, and calling out injustice and the perpetrators of injustice.

As our nation watches the saga of tensions between law enforcement and young black males continue to unfold and manifest in thousands of demonstrators taking to the streets; we also witness the conflict between those who seek justice through an eye for an eye and by any means necessary, and those who seek resolution and justice by using the silent strength of committed immovability and conviction. Both perspectives are painted on a canvas of pain

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

• Ad Deadline: Friday 5 p.m.

• Classified Deadline: Thursday 5 p.m.

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

Arabian Store in the Medical Corridor

Dear Editor: I have written to the Commissioner of Public Works, Mr Stepniak about the targeting of the Arabian stores while letting the medical campus employees illegally park without consequence!

I am the owner of the High St. Deli located at 195 High Street in Buffalo’s Medical Corridor formally known as The Fruit Belt. My family has owned this business since 1984. To my knowledge we have never had a sign outside our building restricting parking in front of our business.

Unfortunately, my customers are consistently on alert and are receiving tickets while they are in our business shopping, which is very terrible for business and community service.

Am I suppose to have a particular sign posted? I am at a loss of what I can do. I tell my customers to please keep their hazard lights on while in the store, but I don’t know what else I can do!

Leemah Kaaid, Owner, High Street Deli created by the shameful and lethal acts of a few that have caused the many to suffer.

A few bad apples are making an entire orchard rotten.

Comparatively speaking, it is a small number of small minded, trigger happy, selfinflated, acting out on stereotypes folks with badges who have tainted law enforcement en masse because every time they act out their biased point of view that “all Black men are dangerous,” Continued Pag12

Advertising /News/ Information/Inquiries adver tising@thechallengernews.com or alnisa33@yahoo.com

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

Challenger Community News • January 7, 2015

health matters

Foods to Eat in Cold Temperatures Hot Food

When the weather is cold, eating or drinking something hot increases the sensation of being warm. Baked noodle casseroles, potpies, freshly baked breads, hearty stews, soups and roasts tend to be particularly satisfying. An added benefit of a homecooked, hot meal is the kitchen -- and often the entire house -- becomes warmer. This makes the home feel more welcoming when the air outside is frigid. If you do not have time to spend preparing a meal, plenty of recipes for roasts, soups and stews use a slow cooker, reducing hands-on work to about 10 minutes. For a different take on “hot” foods, making your meals spicy can make you feel warmer as well.

Mood Food

A lack of sunlight, common in cold weather and cold climates, can cause “winter depression” in many individuals.

This is also known as S.A.D., or seasonal affective disorder.

Cravings for carbohydraterich foods are common when affected by winter depression.

Some individuals report feeling better during and after carbohydrate consumption.

Rather than reaching for cake or cookies, choose a healthier option -- such as complex carbohydrates. Some of the best choices for complex carbs include whole grain breads and pastas, brown rice, legumes, millet and whole oats.

Hydration

In the cold, the last thing on your mind is likely a glass of cold water or iced tea. However, you become dehydrated

just as easily in cold temperatures as you do in warm weather. To combat winter dehydration, a cup of warm tea is an excellent choice. Drinking tea counts toward a healthy daily intake of eight 8-ounce glasses of water. Ginger tea is a particularly good option, as this spice naturally warms your body. If you do not enjoy ginger tea, any spiced tea is a good substitute. Hot cider is another comforting, hydrating choice during cold temperatures. A cup or two of coffee is fine to drink but it does not count toward your day’s water intake.

Fatty Foods

A layer of fat on your body acts as insulation to protect you from the cold, but that is not why fat is important during the winter. Your body uses fats to facilitate the absorption of vitamins A, E, K and D. Vitamin deficiencies, particularly vitamin D deficiency, can contribute to depression and damage your health. Sunlight aids in vitamin D absorption, and most individuals get less sun when temperatures drop.

Healthy fats to add to your diet include fish, nuts, nut butters, olives, avocados and tofu. If you opt for red meat, keep in mind that one serving is about 3 ounces and its consumption is best limited to three times weekly.

IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE!

12

After Holiday Recycling Event!

The City of Buffalo after the holidays recycling event will be held at the City of Buffalo Engineering Garage 1120 Seneca Street Saturday, January 17 from 9a.m. -12p.m.

Items which can be brought to the site for free and proper disposal include Electronics, Christmas Trees and Christmas Tree Lights. Also, support Mayor Brown’s Western New York Coalition by donating goods! Bring used clothing (worn or torn). It will be reused or recycled! For more information call 311 or 8514890

SELMA TO MONTGOMERY continued

it is with lethal force - irreversible, unrecoverable, and unnecessary force that generates a poison that spills into every layer of our lives.

Their actions become the accepted definition and description of the relationship that exists between police officers and young men of color – in particular, young African American males.

The chronic actions of these bad apples are the realties that no doubt spurred celebrated local attorney, John Elmore to write his book, “Fighting For Your Life: The African American Criminal Justice Survival Guide”. Think hard about this for a minute - an experienced, highly-qualified, highly regarded lawyer believes it is such an imperative for African Americans to have a “Survival Guide,” when comes to dealing with the people who are allegedly in business to serve and protect us, that he wrote an entire book about it! We are engaged in social warfare, warfare that has been, and is escalating by the day. This is a great war.

(END PART I)

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

BUSINESS FOR SALE

Business for Sale: Main Street, Theatre District.

Great Potential. 465-8696.

Boston Square Apartments Hamburg, NY Located in the North Boston area. One-bedroom units, two story non-elevator for persons 62 years of age or older, or disabled regardless of age. Off Street parking.

Laundry on premises. Verizon FIOS ready. Appliances.

Carpeting and garbage pick-up. Accessible units. On Bus route. Income eligibility requirement. Rental assistance when it is available. Section 8 vouchers accepted. One year lease and security deposit required.

Call for application and be placed on our Wait-List.

Boston Square Apartments C/O Belmont Management Co. Inc. 7355 Boston State Road Hamburg, NY 14075 Phone (716) 648-3746 TDD Relay: 711 Equal Housing Opportunity

Request for Proposals The Erie County Department of Mental Health (ECDMH) is issuing a Request for Proposals to provide Care Management Services in the City of Buffalo Mental Health Court.

RFP Number 1438VF Qualified providers eligible to respond to this Request for Proposals are currently contracted providers with the Erie County Department of Mental Health that are currently providing Mental Health Court services or are contracted providers that are currently providing Health Home direct Care Management in Erie County, New York. The RFP and associated forms can be obtained at: httpww://w2.erie.gov/purchasing/index.php?q=requests-proposals-amp-construction-bids .

Responses must be received by January 20th, 2015 prior to 3 p.m., and submitted per specifications delineated within the RFP.

Classified

Challenger Community News • January 7, 2015

13

EM PLOYM ENT

Free Worker’s Compensation Info Seminar Series A Free Workers’ Compensation Information Seminar Series sponsored by New York State Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples-Stokes continues in January and February. With so much uncertainty with possible

changes in the Law, hear a distinguished panel of both legal and medical experts discuss the issues that may concern you and your family. The remaining seminars will be held at the Delevan Grider Community Center

Head Men’s & Women’s Cross Country Coach/Assistant Track & Field Coach

Buffalo State, State University of New York, seeks candidates for the position of Head Men’s & Women’s Cross Country Coach/Assistant Track & Field Coach.

877 E. Delavan Ave: Saturday January 17 12:30p.m. 2:30p.m. Saturday February 21,13:20 – 2:30p.m. and Saturday March 21, 12:30p.m.

– 2:30 p.m. There will be a Q&A period. This event is free and open to the public.

A free light lunch will be served. For more information, please contact Assemblywoman Peoples-Stokes’ office at 716-897-9714.

Part Time Project Manager to implement and oversee the Michigan Street AfricanAmerican Heritage Corridor Plan and related activities.

Minimum requirements: Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Urban Planning/Design, Historic Preservation, Public History or related fields. For additional information visit our website: http://www.michiganstreetbuffalo.org.Send cover letter, resume and names of 3 references to: Search Committee, c/o Colored Musicians Club, 145 Broadway, Buffalo, NY 14203. Application deadline: January 15, 2015

For a full job description and to apply: https://jobs.buffalostate.edu.

Advertising Pays

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

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

advertising@thechallengernews.com

Data Research Analyst For a full job description and to apply: https://jobs.buffalostate.edu.

Banner Services Delivery Manager

The Information Technology Exchange Center (ITEC) at Buffalo State invites applicants for the position of Banner Services Delivery Manager. Essential duties, benefits, and required and preferred qualifications can be found on ITEC’s home page at www.itec.suny.edu.

Apply on-line at https://jobs.buffalostate.edu. The deadline for applications is January 9, 2015

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

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

Annual Fund Director Buffalo State, State University of New York, seeks candidates for the position of Annual Fund Director for the department of Institutional Advancement.

For a full job description and to apply: https://jobs.buffalostate.edu.

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

Lecturer Buffalo State, State University of New York, Business Department seeks a temporary lecturer for Spring 2015 semester.

For a full job description and to apply: https://jobs.buffalostate.edu.

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

Buffalo State, State University of New York, seeks candidates for the position of Dean for the School of the Professions.

Required Qualifications: - Earned Doctorate from an accredited institution in one of the disciplines taught in the School of the Professions (business, computer information systems, creative studies, criminal justice, dietetics and nutrition, higher education administration, hospitality and tourism, small business development center, social work, speechlanguage pathology, engineering technology, and fashion and textile technology).

- Rank of Associate professor - Experience as an academic chair - Experience in fiscal planning, allocation, and oversight - Evidence of the ability to work collaboratively with all stakeholders on the development and implementation of a long-term strategic plan - Experience working with accreditation and/or certification bodies - Evidence of fostering equity and diversity among faculty, students, and staff, and an understanding of the issues affecting diverse populations.

- A record of developing innovative partnerships between academic and local professional and social communities Preferred Qualifications: - Full Professor - A record of obtaining or facilitating the securing of external funding or grants - A record of fostering interdisciplinary collaboration - Experience with the SUNY system or similar consortium of colleges - Demonstrated experience with academic and local community collaboration including academic outreach in an urban setting Qualified applicants may apply online at https://jobs.buffalostate.edu.

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

Advertising Pays advertising@thechallengernews.com

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

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

CITY OF BUFFALO EMPLOYMENT

http://www.city-buffalo.com/Home/City_Departments/Civil_ Service/Exam_Announcements_Jobs

Procurement Opportunities http://www.citybuffalo.com/Home/City_Departments/ Administration_Finance_Policy_and_Urban_Affairs/ Purchasing_Division/CalendarofUpcomingFormalBids

Tax Preparer: Small, growing Allentown financial consulting firm seeks tax preparer for upcoming season. Bookkeeping experience preferred. Seasonal position, could become permanent.

Candidate has high level problem-solving skills, attitude of ownership and responsibility for managing projects, excellent attention to detail. Candidate will juggle competing deadlines and interact comfortably with a diverse client base.

We offer an offbeat, progressive, professional-yet-relaxed environment that provides outstanding opportunities. Salary DOE, $15-20/hr. ​Qualifications: 1-2 seasons tax preparation 1-2 years of QuickBooks Bachelors in accounting, business, or related field ​ Bonus: ATX software Experience preparing business tax returns

Skilled and Semi-Skilled Trade Positions Buffalo State is accepting applications for General Mechanics (starting pay $39,384) and Maintenance Assistants (starting pay $33,306). General Mechanic applicants need a minimum of four years and Maintenance Assistant applicants need a minimum of two years, full-time paid experience in a trade under a skilled journeyman which provided training equivalent to that given in an apprenticeship program. Apprentice training in a trade or training gained by the completion of technical courses in a trade, at a school or institute, may be substituted for the above experience on a year-for-year basis. Experience in one or more of the following trades preferred: commercial/industrial electric, plumbing and HVAC. Applications are available on the Human Resources website http://hr.buffalostate.edu/employment.

Completed applications must be postmarked no later than December 26, 2014 and mailed to: Buffalo State College, Human Resources Management, Cleveland Hall 403, 1300 Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo, New York 14222. NO CALLS WILL BE ACCEPTED.

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

Senior Staff Assistant Buffalo State, State University of New York, seeks candidates for the position of Senior Staff Assistant for the department of Student Accounts.

For a full job description and to apply: https://jobs.buffalostate.edu

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

14

Challenger Community News • January 7, 2015

RADNEY’S SPORTS UPDATE

NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS

3-WAY

MON 12/29

TUES 12/30

WED 12/31 THURS 1/1 FRI 1/1 SAT 1/3

MID -200 MID-983 MID-713 MID-621 MID -641 MID-801

EVE-843 EVE-218 EVE-064 EVE-838 EVE-004 EVE-301 MID- 6658 MID- 9491 EVE- 5484 EVE- 1272

WIN 4

MID - 0819 EVE - 3572

MID- 9953 EVE- 0558

MID- 5926 EVE- 3890

MID - 1317 EVE- 3705

MID-452

EVE-312 MID-0156 EVE-9018

15-21-2225-29 14-16-19-20-31 2-4-7-12-20 2-4-5-34-36 2-6-10-23-35 2-4-11-123-36 9-18-25-26-27

TAKE 5

LOTTO

SUN 12/28

HOT TIPS

416

663

4-6-34-38-52-59 #28

471

181

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

JANUARY MONTHLY VIBES

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

“its In The Stars”

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

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

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

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

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

22-23-283-0-41-45 #43

225

648

117

January Forecast

The New Year looks good for 128 & 769 between 1st & 1oth. Between 11th & 20th, 543 & 103 can’t miss! Try 259 & 985 the last 10 days of January.

LUCKIE DUCKIE

335 - “Stayin’ Alive”-2015 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

01/20/2014 Evening 01/20/2014 Midday 01/19/2014 Evening 01/19/2014 Midday 01/18/2014 Evening 01/18/2014 Midday 01/17/2014 Evening 01/17/2014 Midday 01/16/2014 Evening 01/16/2014 Midday 01/15/2014 Evening 01/15/2014 Midday 01/14/2014 Evening 01/14/2014 Midday 01/13/2014 Evening 01/13/2014 Midday 01/12/2014 Evening 01/12/2014 Midday 01/11/2014 Evening 01/11/2014 Midday 01/10/2014 Evening 01/10/2014 Midday 01/09/2014 Evening 01/09/2014 Midday 01/08/2014 Evening 01/08/2014 Midday 01/07/2014 Evening 01/07/2014 Midday

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

2014

Stuart Scott

ESPN Anchor Scott dies at 49

Stuart

M

y Sunday afternoon become much sadder learning of long time ESPN sports anchor Stuart Scott passing earlier in the day after a long and uphill battle with cancer at the age of 49. He was a role model not only for my kids, but a generation of young African Americans looking for someone to lead the way. My oldest son , sports Journalist and blogger Julian Radney, said it best: “He was the man. He transcended sports journalism.

He showed the world you could be black talk with slang but still be seen as intelligent, Stu Scott was a game changer!”

Stu Scott’s vocabulary was outstanding and he showed everyone just how important words are and how they can be used effectively with a smooth delivery. His public battle with cancer for the past seven years should be a rallying cry to anyone battling an illness or life’s ups and downs, to never give

By GEORGE up and keep on fighting until the end. Stu RADNEY said during his acceptance speech at ESPY Awards: “When you die, that does not mean that you lose to cancer. You beat cancer by how you live, why you live, and the manner in which you live; So live. Live. Fight like hell!”

I met Stu while with my brother during Super Bowl week in Tampa Florida back in 2000 (Ravens v. Giants). I’m glad I had the opportunity to let him know of the fine job he was doing and raising the bar in Sports Journalism. He was truly a very nice man that cared about his family, work, and community. He definitely will be missed not only on the Sports scene but in the community as well.

We lost Allen Wilson on the local scene and now Stuart Scott on the national front. It is truly a time to celebrate the lives of these two African American men, who made a difference in the world by how they carried themselves in a professional manner, but yet still let you know about the love they had for their people. They are the real role models our kids should be looking up too.

Stuart Scott is survived by his parents, O. Ray and Jacqueline Scott; siblings Stephen Scott, Synthia Kearney and Susan Scott; his daughters Taelor 19, and Sydni 15; and girlfriend Kristin Spodobalski.

Twitter: George Radney@ george radman

Fred Jackson Named Buffalo Bills Walter Payton Man Of The Year For his incredible passion for the community and many achievements on-field, Fred Jackson has been named the 2014 Buffalo Bills Walter Payton Man of the Year.

The fourth-year captain has been a record-setting athlete for the NFL and the Bills. Since graduating from Coe College – a Division III program – and entering the NFL undrafted.

Challenger Community News • January 7, 2015

15

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Wednesday January 7

Tuesday January 13

Wednesday January 14

Saturday January 17

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

HEAP Outreach 9a.m. – 4p.m.

Kensington Bailey NHS 995 Kensington Ave. For more info call 894-0914 or 6025877.

Tom Grace will share his experience of being shot by Ohio National Guardsmen at Kent State University on May 4, 1970 while protesting the Vietnam war, and will screen the new documentary on the incident, Fire in the Heartland. 7pm, Burning Books, 420 Connecticut Street.

Free Workers’ Compensation Information Seminar Series 12:30p.m. – 2:30p.m.

Delavan-Grider Community Center 877 E. Delavan Ave. Info call 716 897-9714.

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 We Are Women Warriors Stop The Violence Coalition presents “What’s Your Mission?”

5:30-7:45 p.m. at Frank E. Merriweather Library 1324 Jefferson Ave Thursday January 8 Squaw Island- Why Does it Matter?A presentation by Tyendinaga Mohawk scholaractivist, Jodi Lyn Maracle on the history of the word, the island, and its impact far beyond the geographic boundaries of the island itself. Hosted

by Nekanęhsakt: Friends of Ękwehęwę.7pm, 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.

Monday January 12 African Consciousness Workshop: 6-7:45 p.m., Merriweather Library; Jefferson @ Utica; every Monday. Public invited.

Affordable Care Act and Your Business Workshop: 8 a.m. – 10 a.m., Niagara falls Memorial Medical Center, 621 10th St., Niagara Falls, NY 14301.

551-4301 x303 Wednesday January 14 Board of Education Meeting: 5:30 pm, Waterfront School, 95 Fourth St; open to public

Friday January 16 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Tribute 12 noon – 1p.m., Downtown central library 1 Lafayette square. free and open to the public. 858-8900 SEE YOU AT THE EVENTS!

City of Buffalo After The Holidays Recycling Event: Buffalo Engineering Garage, 1120 Seneca Street from 9 a.m. to 12 noon; disposal of electronics Christmas trees and Christmas tree lights. Call 311 or 8514890 for more info.

16

T:10.25”

Challenger Community News • January 7, 2015

“The motorcycle overturned on my leg. Without health T:11”

insurance, I would have been bankrupt.”

–Amy, Troy, NY

“

I had my health insurance through my husband, and lost it going through our divorce. When I heard about NY State of Health, I signed up right away. Six months later, my motorcycle overturned on my leg. If I hadn’t signed up, I would have been bankrupt.

”

Don’t waste a minute.

Find your plan at nystateofhealth.ny.gov. Or call 1-855-355-5777. ©2014 NY State of Health

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