Challenger Community News March 18, 2015

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SERVING BUFFALO, ROCHESTER, NIAGARA FALLS AND SURROUNDING AREAS

| F R E E | FEBRUARY 18-24, 2015

“TO LIVE WITH HONOR”

Justin Becton is Boy Scout Troop #139’s First Eagle Scout PG. 10

A LOVE SUPREME Tribute to James Pappy Martin: A Great and Beautiful Spirit PG. 9

Photo by: Will Jones Xavier Photography

REPORT

National Action Network Responds to “Inflammatory, Degrading” Remarks

by Paladino PG. 3 INSIDE ROCHESTER

Erie County Jail Must Do More to End Abusive Conditions PG. 4

Amirah Muhammad Continues to Make Great Strides! PG. 10

Mayor Lovely Warren: Her Vision is Clear PG. 2

Global Concepts Charter School’s Start-Studded Gala! PG. 8

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INSIDE ROCHESTER

Challenger Community News • March 18, 2015

Mayor Lovely Warren: Her Vision is Clear

by Ruth Scott

Evangelist Patricia Larke of New Progressive Cathedral Church of God in Christ, Rochester, will be the featured speaker at the Women’s Day Celebration at Memorial AME Zion Church, 549 Clarissa Street on Sunday, March 22. Rev. Dr. Kenneth Q. James is the host Pastor. For more information call 5465997.

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n a cold February Day in a month that has become the coldest on record for the Greater Rochester Community, Mayor Lovely Warren stood in her alma mater, Joseph Wilson Magnet High School, and delivered a warm and inspiring message in her first State of the city address.

Many community leaders past and present as well as dedicated city staff from every department chose to be present. Wilson was chosen for the address to underline the fact that “too many girls and boys from the neighborhood” are leaving our schools unprepared for college, jobs or careers.”

The mayor did not pull any punches. Her very first remarks acknowledged, “Our City is struggling.” Childhood poverty (where we rank third in the nation), and concentrated pockets of unemployment hidden from the view of many citizens are serious challenges.

Mayor Warren came to office during a storm of resistance from the old guard in the city. Many questioned, “Is she ready to be mayor?

“Is she qualified?” “Can she really concentrate on the most challenging problems and still move forward on the revitalization of downtown Rochester?”

“How can a Democrat in a county and state which is now controlled by Republicans garner cooperation in solving the problems so large and tenacious as poverty? Is she too young”? She has given more than positive answers to those questions by her demeanor and her performance.

To the surprise of many, she has succeeded in convincing a myriad of folk in the greater Rochester area that their future and success depends on working together with the

Geva Theatre Center Conservatory Auditions for Summer Academy VISION: Mayor Lovely Warren recently announced that she is working with members of Rochester’s clergy to pave the way for the Rochester Police Department (RPD) re-organization, which is set to begin March 30. “After more than a year of planning and preparation, we are in the final stage of returning true community policing to Rochester,” said Mayor Warren. “But the Rochester Police Department cannot do it alone. It is up to us - the citizens of Rochester- to work with the police to bring peace and safety to our neighborhoods.”

Mayor of Rochester. Her vision is clear and her dedication to getting things done for the whole community has her total commitment, as she declared to each level of government, regardless of partisan politics of the past, “getting things done for constituents is not a partisan endeavor.”

And their new commitment to partner with her and our city is proof of the vitality of the vision.

With her vision and tenacity, she has advanced many new projects and cooperative ventures including the opening of Heart Grocers, the first new downtown grocery store in over a decade. Under her watch, and with the support of the local delegation to the US capitol, Rochester has received 2.2 million dollars for the dredging of the port by the Army Corps of Engineers. We were also designated among 12 cities in the nation as a manufacturing hub

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giving us access to receive a share of the 1.3 billion dollars of federal assistance. Both from the state level and globally, more jobs will be created by the recognition of Rochester NY as an ideal global manufacturing site.

In every department and every segment of the community, the mayor has worked and found degrees of success in solving crimes, rebuilding neighborhoods, addressing pressing pre school and other educational issues and creating a sense of community, without which Rochester would go the way of so many depressed areas in our nation.

Rochester efforts of collaboration have secured the interest and investment of local leaders like Nelson Leenhouts and Buckingham properties, and national leaders such as the US Conference of Mayors and Scotts Miracle-Grow as well as as Warren Buffett and his Purpose Built Communities partnership.

The mayor ended her speech with a dose of reality. “ The task of bringing more jobs, safer streets and better schools to every corner of this city will not be easy,”she said. “It will not be accomplished overnightSome days we will run.

Some days we will walk, And yes, somedays we will crawl.”

The beauty of it is that she has the following of many of us Rochester region residents who are willing and ready to run, walk and crawl with her to a better future for Rochester and her children!

Geva Theatre Center Conservatory announces auditions for its annual Summer Academy’s professional young actor training program. Auditions are open to students, ages 12 – 18, of all levels of experience.

Auditions will be held by appointment only on: Wednesday, March 25 from 3:30-6:30pm, at School of the Arts; Friday, March 27 from 3-6pm, at Geva Theatre Center; Saturday, March 28 from 9am-1pm, at Geva Theatre Center; Sunday, March 29 from 12-4pm, at Geva Theatre Center. Call (585) 420-2035 for more info.

Expert on the Schoolhouse to Jailhouse Problem to Speak in Rochester A pioneer in the movement to dismantle the school-to-prison pipleline for Black males in school districts will be the keynote speaker at a special community program at 6 p.m., Monday March 23 in room Monroe A/B at Monroe Community College, 1000 East Henrietta Road, Brighton.

Judith Browne-Dianis, co-director of Advancement Project, a Washington, D. C.-based national multi-racial civil rights organization, willl discuss in depth the growing problem of unnecessary criminalization of black male public school students by their schools.

Entitled “What’s My Fate? From the Schoolhouse to the Jailhouse,” the program is sponsored by the Rochester Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. in partnership with the Diversity Council of MCC and Gamma Iota Boule of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity.

It is free and open to the public. Originally set for Feb. 2, the program was cancelled due to inclement weather and later rescheduled.

A civil rights lawyer, Ms. Browne-Dianis will talk about the school-to-prison pipeline and its impact on Black male students.

Working closely with local grassroots organizations, Advancement Project already has significantly decreased student suspensions and arrests in Denver, Baltimore and Florida.

Prior to joining the Advancement Project at its founding in 1999 by veteran civil rights lawayers, Ms. Browne-Dianis was the managing attorney in the Washington, D.C. office of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc. A question and answer period will follow Ms. Browne-Dianis’s talk. The program will also include a video overview of the “schoolhouse to jailhouse” issue.

“This program is a continuation of the Rochester Alumnae Chapter’s commitment to fostering discussion and inspiring solutions to the subtle yet insidious aspects of racism and civil rights violations in the 21st century,” said Gayle Harrison, chairperson of the chapter’s Social Action Committee.

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Challenger Community News • March 18, 2015

AREA BRIEFS Herbert Announces Candidacy for Fillmore Samuel A. Herbert has announced his candidacy for the Fillmore District Council seat in his third attempt to unseat incumbent Councilmember David A. Franczyk.

Herbert, 65, is best known for his dogged advocacy to ensue the timely completion of the city’s $4.5 million Splash Pad in Martin Luther King Park. A retired Roswell Park Cancer Institute lab technician, he holds a degree in Political Science from Buffalo State College and currently works part time at the Department of Motor Vehicles. “PoSamuel A. Herbert litical flu season” promises to be interesting given the fact that all nine seats are up this year on the all-male, all Democratic City Council. The primary will be held in September. Hebert says he’s running “to get things done” in Fillmore.

Legislator Miller-Williams to Host Crime and Safety Forums with Constituents of District 1 Forums will be conducted by Stop the Violence Coalition Legislator Barbara Miller-Williams will host a Crime and Safety Forum at the Matt Urban Hope Center, 385 Paderewski Drive, on Tuesday, March from 6 to 8 p.m. Invited guests include U.S. Attorney William Hochul, Senator Tim Kennedy, Assembly member Michael Kearns, and Attorney John V. Elmore.

Legislator Miller-Williams stated “My number one priority is effectively serving my constituents in District 1, which includes meeting regularly to hear their thoughts, concerns and issues focused on improving quality of life matters.” The Crime and Safety Forums will be an opportunity to meet with the constituents of Erie County District 1, including residents, businesses, and organizations and discuss the state of Public Safety in our district. All constituent concerns will be forwarded to the appropriate agency and we will assist constituents in following up on their concerns. Another forum will be held on Tuesday April 21 at the Belle Center.

For additional information, please contact the District Office at 716-842-0490 or www.erie.gov/legislature/district01.

Leadership Buffalo to Host Education Panel Leadership Buffalo’s Rising Leaders class of 2015 will host a panel on March 18, beginning at 3:00 p.m. at the Say Yes To Education Buffalo offices located at 712 Main Street.

As part of the Education Day Session for the Class of 2015, the class has planned a panel focusing on the challenges and struggles of the Buffalo Public School system.

Members of the panel include Dr. Will Keresztes, Associate Superintendent Buffalo Public Schools; Tokue Mercado, teacher at King Center Charter School; Carl Paladino, Buffalo Board of Education member; Sam Radford, VP of District Parent Coordinating Council of Buffalo and Phil Rumore, President of the Buffalo Teachers Federation.

Leadership Buffalo, Inc. (LB) is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1987 with one mission: to unite existing and emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds and perspectives in order to increase their knowledge of community issues, broaden their vision and enhance their ability to lead.

National Action Network Responds to “Inflammatory, Degrading” Remarks by Paladino The Buffalo Niagara Chapter of the National Action Network (NAN) has released a statement in response to Buffalo School Board Member Carl Paladino’s “incessant, out of control and inflammatory statements” that are continuously published and aired by the media in this community. The statement, released by local NAN president Rev. Gregory P. Nelson, cites two particular incidents where Mr. Paladino calls prominent women of African American descent “ignorant” because he disagrees with professional recommendations that they have offered in regards to the advancement of educational progress in this community. Rev. Nelson said his organization is asking for support from parents, community leaders, clergy, elected and appointed officials alike as they launch a request for a Federal investigation by the US Department of Justice into Paladino’s actions and behaviors - which he said result in a violation of Civil Rights for students in the Buffalo Public Schools.

Rev. Gregory’s statement follows:

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Rev. Gregory P. Nelson President, Buffalo Niagara Chapter of The National Action Network

he Buffalo Niagara Chapter of the Nation Action Network (NAN) is writing this letter in response to the inflammatory and degrading remarks made by Carl Paladino towards Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples-Stokes and Attorney Roshandra Martin, by calling them both “ignorant” because he disagrees with a professional recommendation they made in regards to educational progress in this community. In the Monday, March 9th issue of the Buffalo News, Paladino was quoted as saying “Once again, partisan, racist politics gets in the way of good government and the community allows a legendary hero to be disgraced by an ignorant, self-absorbed legislator who cares less for the education of minority children than she cares for her own self-empowerment,” Buffalo School Board member Carl P. Paladino said, referring to Peoples-Stokes. We are thoroughly disgusted at the consistent, disrespectful, vial language and references of inferiority that this man has shown to his African American colleagues on the Board of Education, Assemblywoman Peoples-Stokes, Attorney Martin and a long list of other community leaders and elected officials that he disagrees with.

This culture of passively accepting the status quo of people in this community who will take their own personal views and inject them onto the broader community at large is an unacceptable practice and should not be tolerated. The bias and racist views of Paladino being supported by the Buffalo News and other media outlets who quote and reprint his diabolical racist tirades is recognized for exactly what it is – “a systemic means to destroy, tear down, manipulate and disregard the African American electorate & community.”

Dr. Catherine Collins is an accomplished educator, author, college dean and professor, community health advocate, Registered Nurse, former School Board Member, radio and television host who deserved the honor of the nomination to the Board of Regents. For far too long we have become a complacent society that allows a self absorbed, egotistical man who refers to himself as “Crazy Carl” to continue to denigrate our community without response and this will no longer be accepted. Attempting to invalidate the stellar credentials of duly elected, highly educated, credentialed, effective leaders is an act of a coward who should be held accountable for his comments and publicly disciplined and sanctioned for this and his many former acts of slander that he admittedly has sent from his own email account unapologetically.

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, and national origin in programs receiving federal financial assistance. Executive Order 12250 (EO 12250), Department of Justice (DOJ) is charged with ensuring the consistent and effective implementation of Title VI and other civil rights laws “prohibiting discriminatory practices in Federal programs and programs receiving Federal financial assistance.”

Since the State Board of Regents and the Buffalo Public Schools receives Federal financial assistance we respectfully request the support of this community of parents, leaders, Governor Andrew Cuomo, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, the NYS Board of Regents, Attorney General Schneiderman, Mayor Byron Brown, the Legislative branches of the County of Erie and the City of Buffalo, Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples Stokes, Senator Tim Kennedy, Congressman Brian Higgins, Senator Charles Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand as we seek to pursue a federal investigation from the DOJ into the discriminatory practices and actions of Carl Paladino.

Mr. Paladino’s behavior is not only disruptive to the daily function and implementing of policy and procedures meant to benefit the children of this district, he has been a consistent agitator and has often blocked crucial decisions of the Buffalo Board of Education resulting in the children of Buffalo Public School experiencing a delay or not receiving at all the federal resources provided to support their education. Additionally, Acting Superintendent Don Ogilvie has taken no leadership or responsibility in responding to the numerous requests from parents, clergy, DPCC leaders and other community activists to exercise a modicum of respect and control from this public servant who displays negative and unprofessional outbursts causing a further delay of resources.

Continued Page 12

Queen Nzingah: Military Leader Queen Nzingha or “Amazon Queen of Matamba” was born in West Africa in 1583 and died 1663. Many women ranked among the great rulers of Africa, including this Angolan queen who was an astute diplomat and excelled as a military leader. When the slave-hunting Portuguese attacked the army of her brother’s kingdom, Nzingha was sent to negotiate the peace. She did so with astonishing skill and political tact, despite the fact that her brother had her only child killed.

She later formed her own army against the Portuguese, and waged war for nearly 30 years. These battles were a unique moment in colonial history as Nzingha allied her nation with the Dutch, marking the first AfricanEuropean alliance against a European oppressor. Nzingha continued to wield considerable influence among her subjects despite being forced into exile.

Because of her quest for freedom and relentless drive to bring peace to her people, Nzingha remains a glimmering symbol of inspiration.

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LOCAL + NATIONAL + WORLD

New Records Reveal Erie County Jail Must Do More to End Abusive Conditions

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he New York Civil Liberties Union this morning released the first in a series of reportsdocumenting prisoner conditions at two Erie County jails. The NYCLU won the release of the reports following a two-year legal battle with the county, and the documents reveal that while the county has made progress on conditions in the jails, improvements have been inconsistent and slow in coming.

“After years of violence and abuse in Erie County’s jails, as well as costly litigation, the county has clearly made efforts to change policies and protect the people it incarcerates,” said NYCLU Senior Staff Attorney Corey Stoughton. “But change on paper is different than real cultural change. The reports that the NYCLU won reveal that the county has more to do to ensure that reforms take root.

You cannot look at these reports and think the county has done enough to clean up the Dickensian conditions in its jails.”

For years, Erie County has aggressively resisted investigations and subsequent legal challenges by the state and federal government regarding inhumane and unconstitutional conditions at its two county jails. Investigations and legal complaints initiated by the U.S. Justice Department and the State Commission of Corrections have included allegations of inadequate medical care, violent treatment by prison personnel, and poor efforts to protect suicidal prisoners.

A two-year investigation by the Justice Department found evidence of staff-prisoner violence and sexual misconduct between staff and prisoners, along with an inadequate monitoring system to prevent suicide at the facilities. Since 2003, 10 inmates have committed suicide at both sites, and at least 16 additional inmates have attempted it.

In 2012, the NYCLU sued the county for the public release of compliance reports filed every six months following a 2009 lawsuit brought by the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. The reports are filed by physicians hired to monitor the county’s compliance with reforms to improve conditions at the facilities.

This first series of reports allows the public to start getting a sense of if Erie County is doing enough to ensure prisoner safety and meet the basic benchmarks the Justice Department requires.

A second series of reports, focusing on mental health issues, is forthcoming.

“Erie County fought tooth-and-nail to avoid the public release of these reports, but their release today shows that the county’s reasons for fighting disclosure were completely unjustified,” said John A. Curr III, director of the NYCLU’s Western Regional Office. “The public has a right to see how far the county has to go to fix the jails, including ending the physical and sexual abuse against prisoners that led to a rash of suicides.”

BlackAgendaReport

A 20-Year Cap on Prison Terms No one should serve more than 20 years in prison, no matter what the crime, said Marc Mauer, executive director of The Sentencing Project. About 3,000 people sit on death rows in the U.S., while 160,000 are serving life sentences – comprising one out of every nine inmates, said Mauer.

Sentences are a lot shorter in Europe, where “some countries have found life sentences to be unconstitutional, and those that still maintain it generally have only a few dozen people serving those kind of terms,” he said.

Administration Goes “Reagan” on Venezuela

The Obama administration last week invoked the same language against Venezuela that President Ronald Reagan deployed against Nicaragua, in the Eighties, when the U.S. waged a proxy war against that country. In imposing economic sanctions against seven Venezuelan officials, this administration declared the country an “extraordinary threat” to the national security of the United States. President Obama is attempting, like President George Bush, “to inoculate Latin America from the contagion that Venezuela represents in terms of social and political change,” said Miguel Tinker Sala, professor of history and Latin American Studies at Pomona College, in Claremont, California. However, all of Latin America has denounced U.S. sanctions against Venezuela. Mark Weisbrot, co-director of the Center for Economic and Policy Research, said the U.S. foreign policy establishment doesn’t under “that the hemisphere has changed drastically in the last 15 years, and is truly independent of the United States for the first time in 150 years.”

Challenger Community News • March 18, 2015

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Challenger Community News • March 18, 2015

You’re Never Too Young for Colorectal Cancer

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aiting until age 50 to get tested for colorectal cancer?

You might want to rethink that plan, especially if you’re African American or have other risk factors for the disease.

For one thing, experts recommend minority populations most at risk begin colorectal screening at age 45, rather than 50. Secondly, diagnoses of colorectal cancer are on the rise among younger adults.

“Years ago it was practically unheard of to see a patient younger than 40 with colorectal cancer,” says surgi-

cal oncologist Steven Nurkin, MD, FACS of Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI) in Buffalo, N.Y. “Today, we are seeing it more often.”

Why Screening Works Screening detects colorectal cancer at early and highly treatable stages, when survival is near 90%. Even better, screening prevents many colorectal cancers. Colorectal cancer typically develops from small overgrowths of tissue in the colon lining called polyps. Detecting and removing these polyps, effectively prevents future cancer. It’s al-

ways better to prevent cancer than to treat it.

Who Should be Screened Earlier?

That age 50 mark is meant for people at “average risk,” meaning they don’t have any family history of the disease or other risk factors. You may need to begin screening sooner if any of the following apply to you: •A family history of colorectal cancer •A personal history of colorectal polyps •A personal history of breast, ovarian or uterine cancer

•An inflammatory colon condition (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease).

Digging deeper into your personal and family histories may yield clues that suggest a “high risk” for the disease.

These clues include having yourself a family member diagnosed with colorectal cancer at a young age (younger than 50), more than 20 prior colon polyps, precancerous or rare types of colon polyps, or a genetic syndrome, such as Lynch Syndrome or Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP).

You need more than the knowledge that you’re high risk,” says Dr. Nurkin. “You need to know what you can do about it today to manage that risk and what steps you might take to prevent a future cancer diagnosis.”

Regardless of your risk level, everyone needs to be checked for colorectal cancer.

While African Americans get colorectal cancer more often, all non-whites are at greater risk of being diagnosed at a later stage. When this happens, treatment options are limited and survival is not as likely.

Get Answers from the Experts If you’re at high risk for colorectal cancer or have a family member diagnosed with colorectal cancer, you may have questions about how often you should be screened, what types of screening tests are appropriate, and whether your family members are also at high risk.

Participate in Roswell Park’s Colorectal Cancer Talk web chat from 6-7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 24 and ask RPCI’s experts your questions. You’ll have a chance to submit your questions during the Web chat – just log on to www.roswellpark.org/colorectalcancertalk.

You’ll hear from Nicoleta Voian, MD, MPH, Director of the Clinical Genetics Service; Andrew Bain, MD, Co-Chief of Endoscopy; and Steven Nurkin, MD, MS, FACS, Department of Surgical Oncology.

You may submit questions before the program begins, or while it is underway. (Viewers’ questions will be answered as time permits.)

If you are not able to watch the Web chat live, no worries — a video of the complete program will be posted on the RPCI website later so you can watch it at your convenience.

Register for the video chat and pre-submit your questions at RoswellPark.org/ColorectalCancerTalk. #CRCTalk

Health Matters

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Wow: Look at Tamela Mann!

Tamela Mann has reportedly dropped over 240 pounds! Mann and her husband David knew that it was time for them to get into shape so they made some huge changes to their lifestyles. One of the biggest reasons that Mann decided that it was time to get rid of the weight was because of her health. She was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 2013. One of the biggest changes for the pair was the way they ate. They limit their starches to one meal. They have both also reduced their sugar intake significantly. They also cut soda from their lives completely. The Mann’s also have a rigorous exercise routine that helps them to continue to lose weight and keep it off!

Springtime Foods that Support the Liver March 21 is the first day of Spring. It is a time of new beginnings, fertility, conceiving ideas and laying the groundwork for things to come. It is a time to restore health, to build new relationships, to express our emotional truths to expand on current projects and to plant seeds that may one day come to fruition.

As winter’s ice breaks up and currents flow the waters of spring nourish new growth. In our bodies the organs associated with spring are the liver and gallbladder, which govern the muscles, joints, tendons and ligaments.

The emotion of anger strongly affects the liver, causing stagnation of energy and blood when we hold anger in or excessive internal heat if we express anger too much. The health of the liver is reflected in our eyes and nails.

Spring Foods Foods that support the liver include: cabbage, sauerkraut, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, broccoli sprouts, other sprouts, kale, dandelion, salad greens, beets, red peppers, carrots, onions, garlic, soy, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, almonds spirulina, whole grains, flaxseed oil, fish oil, olive oil, apples, other juicy fruits, lemon juice, grapefruit juice, turmeric powder Foods that remove liver stagnation: onions leeks, garlic, mustard greens, turmeric, basil, bay leaf, cardamom, cumin, fennel, dill, ginger, black pepper, horseradish, rosemary, mint, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, beets, strawberry, peach, cherry, raw vegetables and fruit, apple cider vinegar with honey.

FOODS TO AVOID: Avoid the foods that cause liver stagnation – red meat, cream, cheese, eggs, butter, rich nuts, lard, margarine, most oils (except fish, flaxseed and olive oil), alcohol Sour Foods that improve the liver: apple cider vinegar, lemon, lime, grapefruit.

Bitter foods that cleanse the liver: rye, romaine lettuce, asparagus, amaranth, quinoa, citrus peel.

Foods that build liver yin and blood: mung beans, mung bean sprouts, cucumber, tofu, millet, flaxseed oil, spirulina, chlorella, dark grapes, raspberries, blackberries. *An excellent Chinese herb for nourishing the liver blood is Shou Wu. (From: The complete Natural Medicine Guide to Women’s Health)

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FAITH BASED

Challenger Community News • March 18, 2015

“We Are One” Conference Set for April 6-10

Free Community Breakfast

Pilgrim to Host Women’s Conference

St. John Baptist Church will host a “We Are One” Conference Monday – Friday, April 6-10 at 6 p.m. featuring the following special guest teachers and preachers: Mrs. Gloria Cockrell, Rev. Barbara Campbell, Rev. Judy Burgio, Elder Tracy Harris, Rev. JoAnn Angelo, Rev. Amiee Reid Sych, Rev. Donna Naedele, Rev. Gwen Curry, Bishop T. Anthony Bonner and Co-Pastor Wanda Core. St. John is located at 1854 Goodell Street. Min. Michael Chapman is Pastor.

The Metropolitan United Methodist Church located at 657 Best (corner Herman Street), invites the community to join us for our Monthly Community “Breakfast at Metro.” Our next free breakfast will be on Saturday, March 28, from 9:00 am – 11:00 am. This event will be held every 4th Saturday of the month and all ages are welcome to attend. 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 contact the church office at (716) 891-5652.

Pilgrim Baptist Missionary Church, located at 665 Michigan Avenue, will host a Women’s Conference on March 19, 20, 21 and 22 nightly at 7 p.m. The theme is “Wait on the Lord.”

The speakers include Minister Sandra Clay, March 19 and Sister Sheila L. Brown, March 20. On March 21 a Health & Wellness Fair will be held and on Sunday, March 22, Worship Service will take place at 11 a.m. at the Church where Rev. Frank Bostic is the Pastor.

FAITH & FAMILY

Challenger Community News • March 18, 2015

“Chicken Soup for Your Soul”

Womens Day Retreat

New hope C.O.G.B.F. to Host Free Lunch For All in Need!

Calvary Baptist Church’s Missionary Ministry under the leadership of Pastor Quinton Chad Foster, will be holding its 2nd Annual Women’s Retreat May 27-30. The schedule is as follows: *Wednesday, May 27th – 6:30 pm – opening Prayer Service at Calvary Baptist Church *Thursday, May 28th – 7:00 pm Service: “The Blood of Jesus,” featuring 4 speakers *Friday-Sunday, May 29th30th – retreat at ‘Christ the King Seminary’ in East Aurora, NY. A price of $90 includes 5 meals, private room accommodation, the above activities and much more. A $20.00, n on-refundable, deposit will reserve a spot.

For further information and reservations contact Mrs. Mary Watkins at 895-3642

The New Hope COGBF Outreach Ministry, 175 Woodlawn Avenue, will host a “Chicken Soup for Your Soul” free lunch for all in need on Saturday, March 21 from 11 a.m.to 4 p.m..

The meal will consist of chicken soup, a sandwich, a slice of cake and juice. Prayer will be available too! Please join us!

“For I was hungry and you gave me food. I was thirsty and you gave me drink. I was a stranger and you welcomed me.”

Matthew 25:35 ESV

MAD DADS Tuesday Night 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 more information call 563-1834.

Rev. Dr. Terette SmithBoykin to Speak The Rev. Dr. Terette SmithBoykin, formerly of Buffalo, will speak at St. John Baptist Church, 184 Goodell Street Sunday, March 22 at 10 a.m.

Rev. Dr. Michael Chapman is Pastor.

On Friday, April 3 at 5 p.m. she will participate in “The Preaching Women” program at First Shiloh Baptist Church, 15 Pine Street where Rev. Jonathan Staples is Pastor.

“Bring Someone To Church Day” St John AME Church, 917 Garden Avenue in Niagara Falls, is hosting a special “Reach Out and Bring Someone to Church Day” on Sunday, March 22. Sunday School starts at 9:30 a.m. and Morning Service at 11 a.m. Rev. Dion S. Greer, Sr. is Pastor.

NYC Shopping Trip The Humboldt Parkway Baptist Church Mass Choir is sponsoring a Shopping Trip to New York City on March 22-25 (Fri-Mon) departing at 8 a.m. from the Humboldt Parkway Baptist Church, 790 Humboldt Parkway. The trip will include three breakfasts’ and three dinners and two guided tours of New York City.For more information and reservations contact Marguerite Spears at 893-9686.

St. Philips Episcopal Church Hosts Play and Forum on Solitary Confinement On March 20 at 7 p.m. a new play, Mariposa & The Saint, will be performed at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, 15 Fernhill Avenue. After the performance there will be a short forum about the way New York State uses solitary confinement in state prisons.

This performance will be the first time the play has been shown outside New York City.

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GOSPEL PREACHING Preaching The Gospel is Not a Fad...

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hose who genuinely seek Christ will find their desire to follow Him intensified. We need to know what to expect as a result of gospel preaching: We look for conversions! There is a relationship between what we expect and what we receive. In preaching, as in every other aspect of the Christian life, “without faith it is impossible to please God” (Heb. 11:6).

Preaching is an activity of faith. We are to be men of faith every time we preach, expecting God the Holy Spirit to accompany MIN. GREGORY J. His own Word with power and conviction BRICE (1 Cor. 2:4-5). More often than not people will be converted through the preaching of the Word without any personal contact with the preacher. On other occasions people may seek us out, perhaps after a service or more privately.

When they do, we must look for conviction of sin, arising from an awareness of God’s holiness, and the deflation of pride. If God’s Spirit is at work in them, they will accept the authority of what God says in His Word, and the necessity of obeying what He says, no matter how costly. No joy surpasses that of witnessing new birth!

The preaching of the gospel is neither a fad nor the key to membership in a particular movement. When we communicate the Bible according to its intent, we are serving the purposes of a God who is actively reconciling His creation to Himself by the gospel. When we serve the gospel according to its elemental interests, we will engage people, instruct people, convict people, and inspire people. Biblical preaching is gospel preaching. Gospel preaching is integrative preaching. The Scripture is clear in its insistence that we preach the gospel. There is no preaching that is not gospel preaching – at least from the perspective of the Scriptures. Every sermon has in some way at its core the announcement of the good news of Jesus Christ – or ought to have, if we have read our Bible straight. Jesus said “the gospel will be preached” (Ma. 24:14), “the gospel is preached,” (Ma. 26:13), and that “the gospel must be preached” (Mk. 13:10).

“I am compelled to preach,” Paul says. “Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel” (1Co. 9:16). The fundamental nature of our calling is that we “Go into all the world and preach the gospel” (Mk. 16:15). As contemporary preachers, we understand our responsibility to continue in this gospel train.

“The gospel” is a shorthand way of expressing God’s intent for the Bible as a whole. We dig into the scriptures so that we can know the God who loves us, who speaks to us, and who has provided salvation for us. Preachers are likewise also not auctioneers. Preachers are not fast-talking hawkers of unnecessary merchandise. Preachers offer the Word of God because we have been created for it. The gospel expresses the reconciliation of the Creator with his creation. It is good news because it offers the truth that completes us, the text that defines us, and the trust that fulfills us.

Minister Gregory J Brice is Associate Minister at Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 178 E. Ferry St., where Rev. Chorrethers M. Jenkins II is Pasor.

Ministers Wives and Widows to Host Evening of Elegance Gala “An Evening Of Elegance: A Black And White Affair” sponsored by the Ministers Wives and Widows of Buffalo and Vicinity will be held on Friday, March 20 at 6 pm at The Hotel Lafayette, 371 Washington Street downtown Buffalo. For more information call Amaza Savage 704-5429, Joyce Reid 3818610, Sandara Baines 881-1973.

Worship This Week!

8

ENTERTAINMENT

Phylicia Rashad, Ruben Santiago-Hudson to Attend

Global Concepts Charter School to Host First Annual Gala Global Concepts Charter High School is excited to announce its first annual gala celebration to celebrate its Ruben SantiagoHudson Fine Arts Center. The event will take place on Friday, May 8, 2015 beginning at 6p.m. at the WNED Studios in Downtown Buffalo, NY. The Fine Arts Center is a stateof-the-art training center that houses an art studio, black box theatre, and a film/me- Phylicia Rash ad dia production computer lab.

Global Concepts’ goal for the gala is two-fold: to showcase its students work in the areas of art, music, and theatre. Also, to raise funds to expand the school’s community arts and the Artist-in-Residence programs.

Joining Global Concepts for this special evening will be award winning actress/director and recent BET Honors honoree Phylicia Rashad who will be receiving the LEGACY AWARD which will be given to her by none other than Mr. Ruben Santiago-Hudson.

The event will also feature a student art exhibit, a silent auction, performance by the Theatre Dept., dinner, performance by the Chorus and Jazz Ensemble and remarks by Mr. Santiago-Hudson and others.

Tickets for this historic black tie event are $45.00 before March 30th Ruben Santiago-Hudson and $50.00 afterwards. For more information about the Gala, program ads or tickets to the event contact Charles Clark 716.939.2554, ext. 8906 or cclark@globalccs.org.

Afrostream...the African Netflix...

Challenger Community News • March 18, 2015

Outstanding Women Honored at Annual Event Utopian Euphoria’s 5th Annual “Women Making History Gala” recently honored the following outstanding women : Ramona Reynolds, Edla Collora, Danielle Judge, Mattie Stevenson, Lourdes Iglesias, Dr. Davina MossKing, Kaamalal Robinson, LaQuinta M. Jones, Quinnae Thompson, Sharon Cottman, Maritza Vega, Toni DuBois, Sharon Hanson, Sawrie Becker, Hadar Borden, and Maria Rivera.

The gala, held last Saturday at the Classic V Banquet facility, featured live entertainment by Kenny (Woo) Sutton & Peaches, a poetry tribute by Black Pearle, dance performance by the Matthew Clark School of Dance, dinner , dancing and an open bar. Portions of the proceeds from the event will be donated to Virginia D. Moore-Rainey Fighting Lung Cancer Organization.

These proceeds will help families during lengthy stays at Women & Children’s Hospital, Fourth Floor Hematology/Oncology Unit. Utopian Euphoria will serve Easter Dinner to the families who are on the 4th Floor on Easter Sunday.

For more information about the organization visit www. utopiann.com or e-mail to info@utopiann.com.

Afrostream, the start-up online streaming platform of “black content” (for audiences in Europe and Africa) has partnered up with video-on-demand service provider, MYTF1VOD, to provide African, African American, and African-Caribbean movies - making it the African equivalent of Netflix. The CEO of Afrostream is Tonjé Bakang, says: “Black cinema has consistent US box office success. It is an integral part of the cinematic landscape and entertainment options, without any barriers. Like music, Black cinema is part of a lifestyle that knows no borders. “

ON STAGE *WHO WILL SAVE THE NEW WORLD? The Road Less Traveled Productions presents the world premiere of Jan Elson’s “After America: Wasteland 2015”. The performance, opens March 13 thru April 4 at the theatre in the Market Arcade Film and Arts Centre downtown.Regular performance times are Thursday, Friday and Saturday 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. tickets are $35 and $17 for students. For more information and to purchase tickets please visit www.RoadLessTraveledProductions.org or call (716) 629-3069. *Annual Queen City Black Film Festival, Friday, March 20 4:30 to 9 p.m.

Hohn Auditorium., Roswell Park Memorial Institute on Carlton St.; screening of award winning documentary “Gideon’s Army” Feaatured will be Ilham Askia; free and open to the public; no pre-registration is required.

Visit www.queencityfilmfestival.com for more details. *“Girls to Women to Warriors Poetry Slam” on Wednesday, March 18, from 5:30 to 7:45 p.m. at the Frank E. Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Avenue. *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.

PARTY OVER HERE!

*Mr. D. Wilson’s GQ Affair, Saturday, April 25, 2015 at 7 PM - to - Sunday, April 26, at 1:00 AM (EDT)Templeton Landing Restaurant , 2 Templeton Terrace Buffalo, NY 14202

*Battle of the Bands,, Rochester & Buffalo every Wenesday, The Groove Lounge, hosted by Regina Stannard & WBLK’s Todd Anderson, 1210 Broadway. No admission fee. *Alemaedae Theater Productions presents, “F.B.E. (Family Before Everything)” Preview Night Fri. April 10 @ 7:30p.m., 1412 Main St.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 info.

9

Challenger Community News • March 18, 2015

BID ADS NOTICE TO BIDDERS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that sealed proposals for the Erie County Sewer District No. 3 Southtowns AWTF Sewage Sludge Incinerator Emissions Upgrade Contract No. 54STP-A General Construction, and Contract No. 54STP-D Electrical Construction will be received by the Commissioner of the Erie County Department of Environment and Planning on April 9, 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 General and Electrical contracts 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 March 25, 2015, at 11 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-A – General Construction or Contract 54STP-D – Electrical Construction. Bidders submitting a bid for more than one contract must do so in separately sealed envelopes for each contract. Any envelope containing more than one bid will be considered an improper bid and not opened. 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 having a surety thereon from a surety company acceptable to the County Attorney, in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the total base bid, as surety for execution of the contract.

The successful bidder will be required to furnish Payment and Performance Bond, each in an amount equal to 100 percent of the contract award.

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

‘A LOVE SUPREME’ Tribute to James ‘Pappy’ Martin : A Great and Beautiful Spirit

J

ames “Pappy” Martin, a phenomenal life force and extraordinary jazz musician, made his Transition on March 12 after a valiant battle to live, and play, and teach the music which he so beautifully embodied – Black Classical Music, better known as jazz.

In his honor, a Memorial Concert will be held Friday, March 20 at 6 p.m. at the Rev. Bennett W. Smith Senior Family Life Center, 833 Michigan Avenue.

On Saturday, March 21, family and friends are invited to assemble at St. John Baptist Church, 1 8 4 Goodell Street, for visitation at 11a.m. followed by the Homegoing Service at Noon.

-Unsung Hero“Pappy” was one of those unsung heroes who quietly went about his work with little or no fanfare. Over the years he has kept the culture of jazz alive and well in the inner city and throughout the City of Buffalo through the Masten Jazz Festival held on the grounds of the Buffalo Museum of Science in Martin Luther King Jr. Park. It was founded in 1995 by Pappy and a friend, Darryl Peoples after returning from the historic Million Man March in Washington, D.C. Energized and inspired to follow the instructions of Minister Louis Farrakhan who urged the men to “go back your community and do one thing to improve it,” they, along with Steve Porter and former Council President James Pitts, founded the popular event which will celebrate its 20th year this July.

“The Most High (God) is orchestrating all of this,” he said of the festival’s success during a 2012 interview with the Challenger.

-A Love SupremeHis name is synonymous with jazz. Pappy Martin, renowned bassist and trumpet player, was the founder anddirector of the Love Supreme Jazz Ensemble which has been in existence for 40 years.

A trailblazer for many young artists, he also founded and

directed the Love Supreme School of Music for 20 years.

Explaining the significance behind the name Love Supreme, Pappy, a deeply spiritual man, once again credited “the Most High (God)” with whatever success he had experienced in his life.

“The name Love Supreme came from the great John Coltrane, who took ordinary entertainment, thru the principal of love, to a spiritual level. I am trying to perpetuate that idea…trying to teach the power of love; love for our neighbors, people and community. The principal of love was powerful in Coltrane’s music,” stated, Pappy, who describes himself as a metaphysician. “ And its still applicable today…and so we try to teach love, change in the universe, our environment and the world…I’m trying to keep that thought alive today thru the Ensemble, the School of Music and the Jazz Festival.”

Martin had special praise for the late, former Pastor Richard Stewart who he described as a “great, wise and loving person who provided a home for the Love Supreme School of Music, a very positive school where we are developing kids minds in the science of music.”

A musician, promoter, arranger and teacher, he was also a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and greatgreat-grandfather, while still finding time in his busy schedule to serve as founder/ director-General Bass/ Pappy Martin Inner City Tennis Program for over a decade.

Pappy is one of the founders of the Masten Jazz Festival Preservation Society. His participation in area jazz events are numerous: the Pine Grill Jazz Reunion, Ontario Reunion, Lewiston Jazz Festival, Wegmans Jazz Series and Jazz at M&T Plaza.

He has traveled throughout the North East playing music with his brother, the late John (Spider) Martin. He has played with and for notable stars such as Aretha Franklin, Al Hibbler and Ruth Brown and opened locally for such greats as Wynton Marsalis, McCoy Tyner, Roy Ayers and others.

For musch of his life Pappy Martin was on a mission – and that mission was to expand the community’s knowledge and understanding of the importance of Jazz as an art form and as “the healing force of

Pappy Martin: Jazz Man.

Photos by Will Jones Xaviers Phonotography

the universe.”

Mission accomplished! We love you Pappy. Play on...

–alnisa banks & pappymartin.com

Challenger Community News • March 18, 2015

“TO LIVE WITH HONOR”

Justin Becton is St. Martin De Porres Boy Scout Troop #139’s First Eagle Scout “The foremost responsibility of an Eagle Scout is to live with honor.”

T

roop #139, an inner-city Boy Scout Troop located in Buffalo, has plenty to be proud about.

On Saturday, March 21 at 6 p.m., Justin Becton will be awarded the highest honor offered in scouting - the Eagle Scout Badge - in recognition of his diligence, consistent hard work and dedication.

Mayor Byron W. Brown will serve as the keynote speaker at the ceremony which will take place at St. Columba & Brigid Parish, 75 Hickory Street.

“It’s (earning the rank of Eagle Scout) a big accomplishment,” said Justin just before church service at St. Martin de Porres on Sunday.” Its something I worked hard for but I also had people to back me up…It’s been a good experience.”

Justin said he has talked to other Eagle Scouts and found that attaining this prestigious rank could open up a lot of doors in the future, and perhaps even help him get into college.

Thankful for the guidance in his life and the opportunity to excel, Justin has this message for today’s youth: “Stay focused, head strong and never give up.”

It Takes A Village Troop #139 has over sixty Cubs and Scouts. Living in the inner city, young African American men and boys are often faced with challenges.

Justin has proven that with determination and hard work he can overcome these challenges and follow the path to success. He is truly an example of the concept “It Takes a Village to Raise a Child,” Justin was adopted with his two sisters at an early age after being in a foster home. His

Justin Beckton

mother has provided him with a loving and trusting environment which helped him grow into the fine young man he is today.

In addition to Scouting, Justin, a senior, at Western

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 to help 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!

GENERATIONS New York Maritime Charter School, is a member of the ROTC and participates in sporting activities including baseball and swimming. He is an active member of St. Martin de Porres Church and is known to be quite the gentlemen and is always willing to lend a hand to those in need.

One of his many memorable scouting duties was to open up an FBI Convention with the Pledge of Allegiance.

For his Eagle Scout Project to demonstrate both leadership and a commitment to duty, Justin decided he wanted to give back to our veterans.

He arranged free haircuts and transportation to Chopafellaz Barbershop and Salon on Bailey Avenue where he was working. Visiting with the veterans in the barber shop that day was a true history lesson for all. The stories these men shared about their time in the military were amazing. Justin’s Eagle Project has made an impact on all of those present and was the subject of a story in the Buffalo News.

Justin said that he received some invaluable advice from one of the customer’s that day by the name of Buster; advice he said he will always remember: “He told me, ‘Without continual growth the word success has no meaning.’”

Troop 139 The scouting program at St. Martin de Porres was reestablished in September 2007 through support from St. Martin de Porres RC Church.

The program is open to the community and consists of a Cub Scout Program for boys between the ages of 5 and 10 and a Boy Scout Program for boys between the ages of 11 and 17. Currently, the program has over 60 registered scouts, 10 registered leaders and host of volunteers committed to making our scouting program a complete success.

Troop meetings are held Tuesday evenings from 6-8 p.m. during the school year at St. Augusta Boys School formerly Catholic Central School on Kensington and Hastings.

Congratulatioins Justin!

10

Amirah Muhammad, Accomplished Violinist, Ballerina Continues to Make Great Strides!

C

ongratulations to Amirah Muhammad on her recent audition and acceptance into the prestigious American Ballet Theatre Summer Intensive in New York City.

The American Ballet Theatre (ABT) is the top ballet company in the country, and is one of the leading ballet companies in the world.

Amirah competed against thousands of dancers nationwide for an opportunity to study in the nat i o n ' s premiere b a l l e t Amirah Muhammad, an accomplished violinist and s u m m e r ballerina has been accepted into the prestigious intensive. American Ballet Theatre Summer Intensive in New York City. Photos by: Buffalo City Ballet and Muhammad School She was of Music not only accepted but was selected to study at the ABT headquarters in New York City, where only the most advanced, talented, and promising dancers are accepted.

Amirah will train for 5 weeks in New York City this summer being coached by some of the world's greatest ballet dancers and ballet masters. She is the only ballet dancer from Western New York to be accepted into this premier program in over 20 years.

The ABT Summer Intensive also serves as a launch pad for future potential dancers for their world renown company, which includes African Ameriacan ballet sensation Misty Copeland.

Amirah (Ami) Muhammad is both an accomplished Concert Violinist and Ballerina. Born and raised in Buffalo, New York, she is of El Salvadorian and Black American parentage. Amirah began her ballet studies at the age of 3 years at Buffalo City Ballet. Since that time she has honed her ballet skills studying not only in Buffalo, but internationally at the Victoria International Ballet Academy in Toronto, Canada.

As a violinist, Ami picked up the instrument at the age of 2.

Under the tutelage of her father, founder and Maestro of Muhammad School of Music (MSOM) Henri L. Muhammad, Ami has excelled to concert level on her instrument. Ami serves as the Concertmaster of the MSOM Chamber Orchestra, and has performed as a violin soloist with various orchestras in numerous cities, concert and recital halls, and with the Grammy Awarding winning Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra at the age of 8.

Ami comes from a long line of trailblazers, including her grandfather who was amongs Buffalo’s first Black fire fighters, and her aunt and first Black model to grace the covers of international fashion magazines, Supermodel Beverly Johnson.

Amirah’s dedication to both her Violin and Ballet studies show her continued commitment to making similar historical inroads Nationally and Internationally in the field of Classical Arts.

Please visit www.gofundme.com/amiabtnyc or log onto www. muhammadschoolofmusic.com to make a donation to support her efforts in this opportunity of a lifetime. And, stay posted for Amirah's Spring Ballet and Violin Recital.

Congratulations Amirah!!!

Alana & Joy’s Coloring Books 4 Kids, Book Drive Alana & Joy’s Coloring Books 4 Kids, Book drive to Benefit Women and Children’s Hospital of Buffalo is going on now thru March 31. Items collected will be used in the Welcome Bags that are given to children that are admitted into the hospital. Please help to make sure every child gets a book! The sale is being held at Talking Leaves, 3158 Main Street and 951 Elmwood Avenue locations . Purchase a new book at Talking Leaves Books, mention it’s for Alana & Joy’s Coloring Books 4 Kids and your purchase will be donated to the hospital.

OPINIONS

11

Challenger Community News • March 18, 2015

The Media’s Shameful Treatment of Regent, Dr. Catherine Fisher-Collins...

“Have you no sense of decency, sir? At last, have you left no sense of decency?”

This question, from attorney Joseph Nye Welch, delivered a stinging rebuke to Senator Joe McCarthy. McCarthy had waged a five-year reign of terror, aka his witch-hunt for communist sympathizers and infiltrators throughout American society. Welch’s question, posed during the legendary 1954 Army-McCarthy hearings effectively illuminated the cruel, baseless and biased behavior and actions of the Wisconsin Senator. Thanks to the televised hearings during which Welch confronted McCarthy, the public witnessed the true nature of the man, the intent of the hearings and the devastation McCarthy inflicted on the lives of countless individuals. Unmasked and denounced, McCarthy lost the respect and support of the American people and was ultimately censured by the Senate.

As I read last week’s articles and editorials in the Buffalo News regarding the appointment of Dr. Catherine Collins as our new Board of Regents member, Welch’s words rang in my mind. The Buffalo News’ reporting of the events of this past week leading to and including Dr. Collins’ appointment are not an exact parallel to the McCarthy era inquests. Yet, there are certain similarities associated with journalistic truthfulness, transparency and accountability that we should apply to evaluating the Buffalo News’ reports.

Given the impact and influence of the media, reporting that in, itself, raises issues of bias should be examined and questioned.

Barbara Seals For example, Mr. Bennett was lauded as “far and away the best choice Nevergold for the seat”, “a champion of education”, while Dr. Collins’ credentials were never mentioned. Instead, the News observed that she had the “unenviable task” of trying to fill Mr. Bennett’s shoes. Her appointment was characterized as a political one “engineered” by Assembly member Crystal Peoples-Stokes, even though Mr. Bennett’s appointment would have followed the same path, different Assembly member. In fact, the Editorial railed more about the credentials and political clout of Assembly member Peoples-Stokes and new Assembly Speaker, Carl Heastie and touted the credentials of Mr. Bennett while ignoring those of Dr. Collins. By the way, Dr. Collins, a life-long educator and healthcare professional, has a PhD, is a published author, former Buffalo Board of Education member, Distinguished Professor at Empire State College and other area colleges and universities, community leader etc., etc., etc.

But the News would rather lament that Mr. Bennett had been “torpedoed” by the Assembly member and the Speaker. Quite frankly, they sounded vaguely like they were whining…..and that Mr. Bennett was a victim of the process which has installed him as the Regent for the last 20 years.

And then, they dared to go there. Just for good measure the News asked whether or not “racial politics played a role” in the appointment of Dr. Collins given that she is an African American as are Assembly member Peoples-Stokes and Assembly Speaker Heastie. To be fair, they did note that Mr. Bennett and “many of his supporters are white and no one has claimed a racial component there.” But they concluded that race does seem to play a “more dominant role in education” in Buffalo. After all, Mr. Paladino was convinced that is the case too. This is one of the few times in the News’ reporting on education issues in Buffalo when they have been transparent. They put a lot of credence into the comments of Carl Paladino.

Speaking of Carl Paladino, the need to examine the role of racial politics in Dr. Collins’ appointment was confirmed by a quote in a previous article from that educational sage. True to form he weighed in with his own assessment: Assembly member Peoples-Stokes was “ignorant”, “selfabsorbed”, “doesn’t care about minority children”, and is motivated by “self-empowerment”. If all of this sounds familiar, it’s because you’ve heard or read these same descriptors used by Mr. Paladino in comments about all the minority members of the Board, former Superintendent Dr. Pamela Brown and numerous minority female staff members. Yet, the News chose to print these denigrating remarks with no filter or admonishment. I know, Freedom of Speech. But that works both ways!

This is not the first time that the News’ decision to write stories that are unfairly slanted have been cited. Reporting on the City Grill murders and the community’s resultant outrage led to a rare self-examination by the News. Under the leadership of former Editor Margaret Sullivan, the News invited me and several other minority group members to participate in an advisory panel aimed at providing feedback to the News about how their reporting was perceived by members of minority communities. The group confirmed that there was a long-standing and serious issue of lack of trust in the newspaper related to honest and objective reporting. At that time, there seemed to be a sincere desire to engage community members; to hear honest criticism; to make a commitment to change and to develop and implement a plan to change the belief that the News is a biased publication. So much for change! Under the current leadership, we are back to square one.

The Buffalo News’ treatment of Dr. Collins was shameful. The News’ March 12th editorial, “Whose Voice”, stated “The Buffalo woman had barely been confirmed by the State Legislature when she said her goals include slowing down some of the reforms in the state’s education system.” Dr. Collins has not even had an opportunity to express her voice. At the very least, before questioning her independence, integrity and just plain common sense, the News should have a fair, open conversation with Dr. Collins. The McCarthy era is over, but the question still has to be asked - Buffalo News, “At last have you left no sense of decency?!”

“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

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

P: 716 881.1051 F: 716 881.1053

School Administrators Heap Injury On Top Of Injury As Buffalo Public Schools stand poised to grant our children yet another year of stunning failure, school administrators say they’re going to cancel summer school. We say: Hell no!

A

pparently it’s not enough for school Administrators to have presided over the long term, abysmal failure of 45 out of 58 schools, some for more than 10 years straight. It’s not enough for them to have locked over 27,000 children in these drop-out factories with teachers they insist must be certified, but who obviously aren’t qualified. (Thanks to the Governor’s intensified focus in response to parent advocacy, we now know that fully two thirds of them can’t pass the 12th grade math test that they’re supposed to be preparing our children for)! It’s not enough for district administrators to have ignored the most obvious, common sense realities of maintaining a teaching force that has no real life, experiential or cultural connection to the children in their charge. No, after allowing the conditions that have led to abject failure throughout the school year, they now want to cancel the summer session that could boost the chances for recovery for those who desire to take advantage of it.

Ready for the insult? Reportedly, Interim Superintendent Don Ogilvie thinks the $3 million summer school allocation would be better spent on smaller class sizes in preK, kindergarten, and 1st grade for the upcoming school year.

The obvious implication is that we’re too dumb to realize that the money in question was allocated for the current school year, (which doesn’t end until June), and has no bearing on the coming school year. More likely, the plan is to use that money to fill holes in the general budget, wherever there’s a shortfall, forcing our children to suffer for the fiscal irresponsibility of adults. Because they’ve pulled this despicable stunt before, it seems they’ve made the political calculation that repeating it will bring little backlash.

Evidently, these folks have missed the memo… the one that’s reached Ferguson, Mis-

souri and all over the nation: we’ve had enough. We’ve had enough of municipalities balancing their budgets on our backs – after starving our communities of a fair share of resources in the first Sabirah place.

Cur- Muhammad r e n t l y, the plan is to host the mandatory summer school session for grades 7-12 – because it’s mandatory. But what school administrators surely know, is that the number 1 predictor that a child will drop out before finishing high school is failure that takes place in grades 1-6. In many cases, without the necessary supports, by the time at risk students get to the 7th grade, they’re already two grades behind! Snatching away the chance to recover during the summer virtually guarantees a steady flow of eventual drop outs.

There’s more. We absolutely cannot hesitate in this moment to fight for and defend the services that rightfully belong to our children.

That’s because there’s a plan to expand and improve educational opportunities in our city, with the intention for white children to receive the benefit, while ours are locked out.

Major changes are planned for Hutch Tech, City Honors, Davinci, and Performing Arts… there are plans for a Montessori High School, and for tremendous innovation right here in our spaces. Parents, we have to move now…now to sign up for Public School Choice transfers. This small window of opportunity gives us preference for space in this brave new technological world, but folks are trying to close it quickly. The deadline to sign up for transfers has been shortened to March 31st.

The main method for signing up is online, even though only

• 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.

5% of district parents have internet access at home. We have to overcome these obstacles, and sign up for transfers now, in order to be eligible for opportunities that are coming down the line. The Public School Choice Transfer option ends with this round of sign ups. Don’t wait for next year: it’ll be too late!

There’s one more critical thing we’ve got to get down in our collective spirit. The fate of our school children is not just the concern of their parents and immediate families.

This is the moment, when we’re being called to remember the village…that raises, embraces, and cherishes each child and sees no separation between our children and ourselves. This is the moment… when the Selma Celebration and all of our 50 year commemorations can imbue us with the spirit that refused to back down…and with the knowing that the fate of one is the fate of us all.

Join us on Monday, March 23rd, and Monday March 30th at Central Registration, 33 Ash Street. We’ll be rallying there all day. Stay tuned for information on community sites that we’ll be setting up for computer access for transfers. You can call 332-3775 for updates.

(Ask for Bro. Kobe).

Finally, join us at the School board meeting on Wednesday, March 25th, 801 City Hall to make it plain. Call the board office at (716) 816-3567 (by Tuesday, March 22nd at noon) to get on the speaker’s list. Tell them you want to talk about the proposal to cancel summer school. Come for our babies…and don’t come alone.

are you registered to VOTE? Advertising /News/ Information/Inquiries adver tising@thechallengernews.com or alnisa33@yahoo.com

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

BUSINESS & FINANCE

Challenger Community News • March 18, 2015

OPINION The Ferry Street Project: 21st Century Charade?

BY ROY ST. CLAIR I have talked to over 25 people of African descent over the age of 50 about the Ferry Street Corridor Project, and most of them were skeptical and puzzled by it. It seems like it came from out of the blue with zero input from the Black community.

Yet these White interlopers are telling Black people what we should be doing culturally.

The slinger talks about the racial divide but no mention that it was created by the White power structure through redlining so that Black people could not buy or rent property on the west side of Main Street. Nor is there any mention of the Italian and Jewish community that lived there for over 100 years before the emerging refugee immigrant community was even thought of. This so-called “wall of fame” that the Ferry project is touting, has been in existence for the last 125 years, that is Challenger Community News and the Buffalo Criterion. We see ourselves every week in those publications. That’s our pages of fame, history and knowledge.

The other thing that makes the Black community skeptical is why haven’t the Ferry Project not enlisted the help from our cultural stabilizers such as; African American Cultural Center, Ujima Theater, African American Niagara Historical Group, Challenger Community News, Buffalo Criterion, NAACP, Urban League, Michigan Ave. Corridor, the Uncrowned Queens & Kings, and Tradition Keepers; Black Storytellers and Pappy Martin’s Love Supreme Music School?

And what benefit is a picture on a wall to an economically devastated community? When did politicians become the cultural stabilizers? From where I stand the politicians should be trying to get some of that Buffalo Billions of Dollars to the Michigan Corridor and the rest of the East-side Black community.

The NEA is providing a grant, it seems, based on a charade created by Friends of the Buffalo Story. For those who get caught in the snare (i.e. the recent Community History Day/ Wall of Fame) remember the hook: “lunch will be served.”

CELL PHONES

INSURANCE

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

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

(716) 884-2373

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

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

SALONS 2441 Delaware (716) 605-9211

TAILORS Ann Rhod’s Tailoring 3185 Bailey Ave. (716) 838-5633 For More Info: advertising@ thechallengernews.com 881-1051

Black Chamber to Host Business Networking Affair The Black Chamber of Commerce will host a Wine and Cheese Business Networking Affair on Thursday, March 26 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Jazzy’s Restaurant & Banquet, 2227 Genesee Street. Pre-registered participants will have three minutes to present and promote their business or organization.

Seating is limited.

Tickets are $15 for members and $20 for non-members. For tickets call 828-6018, 4002041 or 995-0622. A discount is available for prepaid memberships by March 26.

Links to Host Financial Literacy Resource Fair The Niagara Falls (NY) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated , National Trends and Services Facet will host a Financial Literacy/Sustainability Resource Fair “IT ALL ADDS (+) UP↑” on Saturday, March 21 from 12:30-2:30 p.m. at the Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building 3001 Ninth Street Niagara Falls, NY 14305.

On hand to talk with participants will be representatives from community based organizations, financial institutions, educational institutions, health care organizations and programs about financial planning, workforce development and training, small business development, housing, and healthcare.

Learn how to maintain financial health by spending, saving and living better.

The Fair will include door prizes, light refreshments and activities for kids.

For more information contact 716-464-2524 or visit www.linksniagarafallschapter.com.

The Links, Incorporated is 501(c) (4) organization. The organization consists of 280 Chapters around the world including the United States, the Bahamas, Germany and South Africa. The Niagara Falls (NY) Chapter is celebrating sixty-five years of service to the community.

Advertising Pays advertising@thechallengernews.com

12

PROTEST FOR ECONOMIC JUSTICE! The Coalition for Economic Justice organized a demonstration in February outside of a Williamsville McDonald’s to protest the fast food giant’s treatment of its workers and to call for fair resolution to a racial discrimination lawsuit filed by former employees in Clarksville, Virginia. In that suit, which was filed in January by 10 employees, they said they were fired because they were Black. The workers also claimed sexual harassment by managers. The national “Fight for $15,” a movement demanding $15 an hour for fastfood workers, has also brought exposure to work place abuses, such as racial discrimination and sexual harassment.

Free Easter Egg Hunt The 6th Annual Free Easter Extravaganza presented by AES and University District Council Member Rasheed Wyatt, will be held on Saturday April 5 at the Edward Saunders Community Center, 2777 Bailey Avenue from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for youngsters ages 13 and under. You must reserve space by March 22.

Call 716-226-0389 today!

NAN RESPONDS continued

The education of the students in the Buffalo Public Schools is a civil right that is being violated because of the acts of this man and we ask that every community member call the US Attorney of the Western District William Hochul at (716)843-5700 to lodge a formal complaint.

NAN is one of the leading civil rights organizations in the nation with chapters throughout the entire United States. Founded in 1991 by Reverend Al Sharpton, NAN works within the spirit and tradition of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to promote a modern civil rights agenda that includes the fight for one standard of justice, decency and equal opportunities for all people regardless of race, religion, nationality or gender. We are working hard to fulfill the legacy of a fair and just education system for our students and we deserve the support of those officials and leaders who have the power of the pen and legislation to support our claims and course of action.

Futures Academy to Present Gospelfest 2015 The Marva J. Daniel Futures Preparatory School #37 will present Gospelfest 2015 on Saturday, March 28 from 5-8 p.m. at the school, 395 Carlton Street in celebration of Music in Our Schools Month.

Local churches are participating. All proceeds will go to support the school’s uniform initiative for students. For tickets or more information call 816-3800

You Succeed When Your Employees and Customers Succeed

BIDS Buffalo City School District Advertisement for Bids Sealed proposals for the following project will be received at the Office of Plant Services, 403 City Hall, Buffalo, NY, 14202. On Thursday, April 16, 2015 at 9:00 a.m., proposals will be publicly opened and read aloud for: Interior Restoration and Related Work P.S. 38: Frank A. Sedita Academy 21 Lowell Place Buffalo, NY 14213 Bids will be opened for the following four (4) prime contracts: General; Electrical; HVAC; Plumbing. Beginning March 16, bidding document packages may be viewed and purchased through Avalon Document Services online Planroom website at www.avalonbuff-planroom.com, under “Public Jobs”, or ordered by phone at 716-995-7777.

Owner can assume no responsibility for errors, omissions, or other misinformation obtained via other bid document distribution resources.

A mandatory pre-bid conference will be held at the facility on March 31at 2:00 p.m.; please assemble at the main entrance. The Architect will be present. Eligible bidders are required to attend this walkthrough or another previously arranged and documented site visit with Architect and/or District personnel.

Please note that required bid bond is 10%. The work will be subject to the equal employment opportunity requirements. Any questions regarding this project, please refer to Jeffrey Kloetzer, Stieglitz Snyder, 716-828-9166.

Paul McDonnell, AIA Director of Facilities Planning

Free Home Buying Workshop

EM PLOY M EN T

On Tuesday, March 24, at 6 p.m. at 875 Elmwood (Lafayette Lofts) Evans Bank is offering a complementary workshop where you can learn more about the home buying process firsthand from industry professionals, including Mortgage Loan Officers, Real Estate Agents/Attorneys, Consumer Credit Counselors and Home Inspection Experts. All are welcome to attend!

Space is limited, so please RSVP by Friday, March 20 to Kim Fix at 882-7788, or kfix@evansbank.com.

RSVP

BIDS Notice Of Solicitation Of General Contractors For The Gowanda Zoar Valley Gateway Park – Site Work In The Village Of Gowanda, New York Sealed bids for site work at the Gowanda Zoar Valley Gateway Park – Site Work project in the Village of Gowanda, New York will be received by the Gowanda Area Redevelopment Corporation (GARC), the Owner, until 10:00 AM local time on April 10, 2015 at the office of KHEOPS Architecture, Engineering & Survey, DPC (KHEOPS), 300 Pearl Street Suite 100, Buffalo, New York, 14202 (Attn: Gowanda Area Redevelopment Corporation) until 10:00 AM local time and then at said office publicly read aloud.

Each bid must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the Bidding and Contract Documents and must be accompanied by a bid security in the form of a Certified Check, Bid Bond or Bank Check in the amount of 5% percent of the bid amount. The Owner reserves the right to waive any informalities or to reject any or all bids.

GARC is an exempt organization under the Tax Law and is exempt from payment of Sales and Compensating Use Taxes on materials, pursuant to the provisions of the Contract.

These taxes are not to be included in the bid.

Funding for this project comes in part through an Environmental Protection Fund grant administered by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) through Title 9 of the Environmental Protection Act of 1993. Under Article 15A, Executive Law, the State of New York is committed to providing Minority and Women Owned Business (MWBE) equal opportunity to participate in government contracts. The following goals have been set for this project: 20% MWBE, to include at least 1% participation in either category. The successful bidder may be required to furnish reports showing the participation of various business enterprises of subcontractors and suppliers on the contract.

All bidders are subject to the terms of the NYS Master Contract for Grants -- Standard Terms and Conditions, which can be found online at http://grantsreform.ny.gov\.

GARC has been and will continue to be an equal opportunity organization. All qualified minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) suppliers, contractors and/or businesses will be afforded equal opportunity without discrimination because of race, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual preference or Vietnam Era Veterans Status.

Attention of bidders is particularly called to the requirements as to the conditions of employment to be observed and minimum wage rates to be paid under the Contract.

Effective March 16, 2015, Bid Documents may be obtained and/or examined free of charge at KHEOPS Architecture, Engineering & Survey, DPC, 300 Pearl Street - Suite 100, Buffalo, New York, 14202.

There will be an optional pre-bid meeting on Friday March 27, 2015 at 2:00 PM at the Gowanda Village Hall Board Room, 27 East Main Street. Gowanda, NY 14070.

If you have questions, please contact Gina Wilkolaski, PE at KHEOPS (716-849-8739).

Bids will be received by R&P Oak Hill Development, LLC for the Carnegie Arts Center Project on March 19th, 2015 at 12:00 pm. Please fax bids to R&P Oak Hill Development, LLC (716-822-4367) prior to 12:00 pm. The scope of work includes site work, concrete, ICF, finish carpentry, rough carpentry, roofing, insulation, windows, painting, HVAC, plumbing and electrical. The contract documents may be examined at R&P Oak Hill Development, LLC. Please contact Mercedes Calway (716-822-4966) for more information.

This project is tax-exempt and prevailing wage (Erie County rates). **W/M/DBE participation is encouraged.

13

Classified

Challenger Community News • March 18, 2015

Buffalo Urban League Pre-Advanced Manufacturing Training Opportunities Available: Focus on long-term Unemployed

Bookkeeper: Oversees all day-to-day bookkeeping for a not-for-profit organization. Ensures accuracy of books and timeliness of information with strong attention to detail. Responsible for maintaining and reconciling the general ledger, bank accounts and petty cash accounts. Management of various accounts receivable and payable.

Assists with periodic closings and audits and will supervise accounting staff as required. Supports Finance Director with other tasks as necessary. Please send cover letter, resume and 3 references by March 20, 2015to: PUSH, 271 Grant Street, Buffalo, NY 14208. email: dawn@pushbuffalo. org. No phone calls please.

IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE!

(716) 250-2400

Administrative Assistant: Large City apartment complex PT. Job includes: Computers, People Skills and General Office Work. Must be organized, cheerful and reliable as well as detail oriented.

EOE. send Resume/References to 215 Broadway Buffalo, NY 14204 of fax to 854-1251.

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

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

Web Designer

COUNTY OF ERIE ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS For Ralph Wilson Stadium 2014 Year 2 Capital Improvement Allowance Projects Separate sealed bids for General Construction, Site Work, Mechanical Work & 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 April 1, 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

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

The Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority will receive sealed bids for BMHA Job #15-02-CF, Pre-Renovation Environmental Services And Environmental Monitoring During Renovations @ Various Developments.

Specifications will be available at the Capital Improvements Office located at 320 Perry Street, Buffalo, New York 14204. Our office hours are 9:00 AM to 5:00PM Monday thru Friday.

Sealed bids will be received until 3:00 PM, local time, on Thursday, April 9, 2015 at the Capital Improvements Office, 320 Perry Street, Buffalo, New York 14204. Bids received after the stated time will not be accepted. Bids will be opened and publicly read aloud immediately after specified closing time. All bid forms must be filled out and returned. A pre-bid meeting will be held on Tuesday March 31, 2015 @ 10:00 AM in the conference room of the Capital Improvements Office, 320 Perry Street. Perspective Offerors are strongly advised to attend the pre-bid meeting.

The BMHA reserves the right to reject any bid, which fails to conform to the essential items, required by the contract documents and to reject any and/or all bids submitted.

Scope of Work: Pre-renovation Environmental Services And Environmental Monitoring During Renovations At Various Developments.

Dated: March 17, 2015

CAREERBUIL

Are you passionate about web Blackboard Trainer $390/30 days design? The College at Buffalo State, State University of New York, seeks candidates for the position of Brockport, SUNY is looking for Blackboard Trainer for theinInstructional Resources Department. a Web Designer interested being TALENTZOO an important member of our For a full job description and to apply: https://jobs.buffalostate.edu $249/30 days marketing team as we embark on a major college initiative to redesign our website.

If you are looking for a rewarding position that allows you to make a positive impact on the recruitment efforts in Buffalo higherState education, is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and committed to respect for diversity and individual differences. please review the full job description today at https://www.brockportrecruit.org.

HIGHEREDJO -Sweeps Posti

BUFFALOJOB $150/30 days

For best consideration, apply AMERICAN M before April 3. Assistant Professor $225/30 days The EOE/AA/M/F/Vet/Dis Business Department at Buffalo State, State University of New York, seeks candidates for the position of Assistant Professor.

BIDS

ONLINE:

advertising@thechallengernews.com

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

MINORITY REPORTER Issue: 3/9 Due: 3/4 Size: 1 col. (1.91) x 3.5 $82.36

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

Web Designer Are you passionate about web design? The College at Brockport, SUNY is looking for a Web Designer interested in being an important member of our marketing team as we embark on a major college initiative to redesign our website.

If you are looking for a rewarding position that allows you to make a positive impact on the recruitment efforts in higher education, please review the full job description today at https://www.brockportrecruit.org.

For best consideration, apply before April 3.

EOE/AA/M/F/Vet/Dis

JOBS

BUFFALO CHALLENGER Issue: 3/4 Due: 2/27 (ASAP) Size: 1 col.(2) x 3.5 Buffalo Employment and Training Center $66.50

77 Goodell St., Buffalo, 856-5627/ Fax 7856-5670 www.workforcebuffalo.org

AD COUNCI $25 posting fe

14

Challenger Community News • March 18, 2015

HEAP Is Closing March 27!

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

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Legislators Grant, Miller Williams Announce HEAP Workshops

F bills.

riday, March 27 is the closing date for all Regular & Emergency HEAP Benefits. HEAP is a federally funded program to assist Erie County Residents with their heating

Erie County Legislator Barbara Miller-Williams is announcing that two HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program) workshops will be held in the First Legislative District. The first workshop is scheduled for Monday March 23, from 9 am- 4 pm at the CAO Masten Resource Center 1423 Fillmore Avenue. The second workshop is scheduled for Wednesday March 25 from 9 am- 4 pm at The Belle Center, 104 Maryland Street.

For more information contact Legislator Barbara Miller-Williams Neighborhood Legislator MillerOffice at Phone (716) 842-0490 or Email Williams bmw@erie.gov The last HEAP Outreach hosted by Betty Jean Grant, 2nd District Erie County Legislator and We Are Women Warriors Community & Family Empowerment organization, will be held on Thursday, March 26 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Delavan Grider Community Center 877 E. Delavan Corner of Moselle.

Call 8940914 or 602-5877 for more information.

When applying for HEAP, bring ID, heating bill, proof of income, lease or Legislator Grant landlord statement and ID for everyone in the household.

Second Emergency HEAP Benefits Available Effective immediately, there is one Second Emergency Benefit available for Heat (natural gas, electric heat, oil, etc.), and one Second Emergency Benefit available for Heat–Related Electric (electricity that is needed to run primary heating equipment- thermostat, furnace, etc.), if a client already received their First Emergency Benefit and has a current shut off notice or low fuel supply.

Friday, March 27, 2015 is the closing date for all Regular & Emergency HEAP Benefits.

The Regular Benefit is for a household’s main source of heat. A shut off notice or low fuel supply is not required. Walk in applications will be accepted until 4p.m. on March 27. Mail in and on line applications will be accepted if postmarked or submitted on or before March 27.

In addition to contacting Legislator Miller-Williams or Grant, complete information, including application guidelines and methods or assistance can be provided by visiting: www.erie. gov<http://www.erie.gov<http://www.erie.gov/>>, and clicking the HEAP link at the bottom of the page, or by calling the HEAP hotline at (716) 858- 7644.

Emergency Benefits are available for a household’s main source of heat (if service is off, or if there is a shut off notice or low fuel supply), and for “heat related” electric (if electricity is needed to run heating equipment, thermostat, furnace fan, etc.). For emergency assistance, clients are encouraged to visit the HEAP Office at 478 Main St., Buffalo, 8am-4pm, or call the HEAP Hotline at 858-7644.

Erie County Home Energy Assistance Program The Home Energy Assistance Program is federally funded and assists eligible households with home heating costs and energy conservation. HEAP components include benefit assistance for energy bills, furnace repair or replacement, weatherization and energy conservation repairs referral, and cooling assistance (in summer months; based on medical necessity).

ARE YOU REGISTERED TO VOTE?

Challenger Community News • March 18, 2015

Wednesday March 18

Wednesday March 18

Friday March 20

Monday March 23

Leadership Buffalo to Host Education Panel: 3 p.m. at the Say Yes to Education Buffalo offices 712 Main St; panelists include Dr. Will Keresztes, Tokue Mercado Carl Paladino, Sam Radford and Phil Rumore.

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

Queen City Black Film Festival: Hosted by the Western New York Minority Media Professionals Inc., AfricanAmerican Roswell Park Employee Network, Wisteria School of Buffalo, 4:30-9 p.m. Hohn Auditorium, Roswell Park Cancer Institute; free and open to the public; Visit www.queencityfilmfestival.com for more details.

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

BIDS NOTICE TO BIDDERS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that sealed proposals for the Erie County Sewer District No. 5, Contract No. 21 will be received by the Commissioner of the Erie County Department of Environment and Planning on March 31, 2015 until 10:00 A.M., local time, at 95 Franklin Street, Room 1034, Buffalo, New York, 14202, at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud in Room 1004.

The proposed sanitary sewer rehabilitation project is located in Erie County Sewer District No. 5 (ECSD No.5), along Transit Road at Main Street in the Town of Clarence, Erie County, New York. The work includes cured-in-place pipe lining and associated/appurtenant services for approximately 1,060 lineal feet of existing 12-inch diameter and approximately 380 lineal feet of existing 15-inch diameter ACP sanitary sewer, re-establishment of approximately three (3) lateral connections, rehabilitation of one (1) manhole, maintenance and protection of traffic, and all other related work as indicated in the Contract Documents or on the plans. All work shall be performed within existing easements and public highway rights-of-way.

Bidders are advised that a pre-bid meeting for the construction of this project is scheduled for this project is scheduled for March 20, 2015 at 1:00 P.M., Erie County Department of Environment and Planning Northern Regional Office, 3789 Walden Avenue, Lancaster, New York 14086.

Copies of the Contract documents, plans and specifications may be examined and purchased at the Office of the Erie County Department of Environment and Planning, 10th Floor, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York 14202.

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. 5, Transit and Main Cured-in-Place Pipe Lining Project, Contract No. 21”. 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. 5 is an exempt organization under the Tax Law, and is exempt from payment of Sales and Compensating Use Taxes which are to be incorporated into the project and which are to be separately sold by the Contractors to the Owner prior to incorporation into the project, pursuant to the provisions of the contract. These taxes are not to be included in the bid.

Sales tax will be due on all materials purchased by a Contractor which are either “consumable” or rental property used by the Contractor in connection with the construction or repair.

Each proposal must be accompanied by a certified check payable to the Erie County Comptroller or by a bid bond having a surety thereon from a surety company acceptable to the County Attorney, in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the total base bid, as surety for execution of the contract.

The successful bidder will be required to furnish Payment and Performance Bond, each in an amount equal to 100 percent of the contract award.

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 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. 5 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

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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 Focus on Education “Getting College and Career Ready” Town Hall Event: 5-6:30 p.m., Buffalo Convention Center Room 106A; To register call (716) 845-7000 ext. 345 or email townhall@wned.org Public Meeting Notice: Board of the Westminster Community Charter School at 3 p.m.

M&T Bank, One M&T Plaza - 19th Floor.

Film: “Conditions & Terms May Apply,” Presented by the Buffalo Committee Against State Repression, 7pm, Burning Books, 420 Connecticut Street.

The Women History Month Poetry Slam: The Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Ave. Thursday March 19 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 March 20 Memorial Concert in Honor of James “Pappy” Martin: 6 p.m., Rev. Bennett W. Smith Senior Family Life Center, 833 Michigan Ave. Nichols School Spring Play: 7 p.m, Nichols School Performing Arts Center, 1250 Amherst St.; $5 at the door.

Saturday March 21 Boy Scout Troop #139 First Eagle Scout Celebration Honoring Justin Becton: 6 p.m., St. Columba Brigid, 75 Hickory St.; Mayor Byron Brown guest speaker.

Nichols School Spring Play: 7 p.m. Nichols School Performing Arts Center, 1250 Amherst St.; $5 at the door.

Home Going Services for James “Pappy” Martin: 11 a.m. visitation; 12 Noon Service, St. John Baptist Church; 184 Goodell Street.

Niagara Falls Chapter of Links Financial Literacy Resource Fair: 12:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Doris Jones Family Resource Bldg., 3001 Ninth St. Niagara Falls; 464-2524 or visit www. linksniagarafallschapter.com Free Worker’s Compensation Info Seminar Series: 12:30 – 2:30 p.m., Delavan-Grider Community Center, 877 E. Delavan Ave.; sponsored by Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples-Stokes; free & open to the public; 897-9714 for more info.

FREE LUNCH “Chicken Soup for the Soul”: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., New Hope C.O.G.B.F. Outreach Ministry, 175 Woodlawn Ave.; all welcome.

Action Organization of Erie County First Time Home Buyer Workshop: Every 3rd Saturday of the Month from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Banks, Attorney, Real Estate Agents, Credit Counseling/Budgeting 564 Dodge Street Bldg#400 (716) 881-6543 for Details and Reservations Scholarship Fundraiser in Memory of Shmerea Nailor: 5-9 p.m., CRUCIAL Community Center, 230 Moselle Street; 240-9620.

Monday March 23 HEAP Workshop: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., CAO Masten Resource Center, 1423 Fillmore Ave; sponsored by Legislator Barbara Miller-Williams.

Tuesday March 24 MAD DADS Tuesday Night Bible Study with Rev. Derren L. Young: GROUP Ministries, 1333 Jefferson, 6:30-8 p.m., 563-1834. All are welcome “Why We Fight” Film Series: 2nd of 7-part film, “The Nazis Strike” (1943), El Buen Amigo,114 Elmwood, 7 p.m.; free.

Wednesday March 25 Community Control Over Public Dollars Free Community Event: 4-8 p.m., Old First Ward Community Center, 62 Republic St.; 852-3813.

Board of Education Regular Board Meeting: 5:30 p.m., 801 City Hall.

Academy of Choice Charter School Funding Group Information Session: 6 p.m., North Buffalo Community Center, 203 Sanders Rd. HEAP Workshop: The Belle Center, 104 Maryland St., 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; sponsored by Barbara Miller-Williams.

Black Chamber of Commerce Business Wine & Cheese Networking Affair: 5:30-8:30 p.m., Jazzy’s Restaurant, 2277 Genesee St.; $15 members; $20 non-members; For tickets call 828-6018, 400-2041 or 995-0622.

Annual Penguins Days at the Aquarium of Niagara Come celebrate with the Peruvian penguins at the Aquarium of Niagara, located at 701 Whirlpool Street in Niagara Falls, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 21 and March 22.

“Beaker”, the Aquarium’s penguin mascot, will also be greeting visitors from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m in the “Who Do You Sea” area. Don’t forget to stop by our other exhibits including seahorses, poison dart frogs, harbor seals, sharks and more!

Penguin encounters are included in regular admission of $10.50 for adults, $9.25 for seniors, $6.75 for children, and free for 2 and under.

Members are free.

For more information, call 285-3575, Ext. 206. Or visit www.aquariumofniagara.org

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Challenger Community News • March 18, 2015

IMAGES OF US

A TRIBUTE TO SHMEREA: Cecelie Owens, founder and pres-

ident of the GIRLS Sports Foundation, Inc., poses with the family and friends of Shmerea Nailor during the 3rd Annual Female Basketball Showcase, which was held in her memory last Saturday. The talented teen was shot and killed by an unknown assailant October 9, 2014 in the Riverside section of Buffalo. No arrest has been made in the murder. On Saturday, March 21, another event in her memory will be held at the CRUCIAL Community Center, 230 Moselle Street from 5-9 p.m. Call 240-9620 for more information.

The Road to College Begins in Kindergarten School Highlights KCCS – a K-8 Charter School All graduates placed in elite Buffalo’s First Charter School – Established 2000

public & private high schools Newly Renovated Facility Extended School Day Athletics: Basketball, Track, Drill, Hockey, Swimming College Advisory Groups College Admission Support Throughout High School

Apply Online or in Person – Applications Due April 1st

A School in Good Standing

www.kccs.org – 156 Newburgh Ave, Buffalo, NY 14211 – 716-891-7912 !