CHALLENGER COMMUNITY NEWS

INSIDE ROCHESTER Urban League Black Scholars Ceremony

The 44th annual Black Scholars Ceremony will be held at RIT's Gordon Field House on Monday, June 5 from 7-10 p.m. Black Scholars provides honorees with helpful college/career readiness programming and scholarship opportunities in their senior year through our scholarship networks. We continue this support as our Black Scholars move up from high school and on to being leaders in their communities and workplaces.This event is free to the public, but pre-registration is required for ALL attendees. Admittance will NOT be permitted without registration. Go to Eventbrite.com to register

TALKING SPORTS Of ALL SORTS

Reflections On The 2023 PGA Championship

It was Rochester’s turn to be in the spotlight May 18-21 with the world’s best golfers in Pittsford, NY for the PGA Championship. African American golfer Harold Varner III said playing the LVI Tour gave him “more opportunity to do what I want to do and to be the best professional Golfer I can be. I’m very excited to be here in Rochester, NY playing in the PGA Championship. I want to make sure our young people get access to golf and have chance to play golf to experience the opportunity to play this fine game.” Varner, from Gastonia, NC sported the Nike brand and I’m certain Michael Jordan might be a supporter of his too.

The PGA Championship was won by Brooks Koepka by two strokes over fellow American Scottie Scheffler. Brooks just became a 3-time PGA Champion -2018, 2019, and 2023. He said this about winning the Tournament: “I felt in control all day even on the Par 5 by making the 7-footer really built momentum for me. This win is probably the sweetest one of them all because of the hard work that went into it, this one is definitely special. This one is probably it for me.” Brooks Koepka became the 20th player with 5 Majors and 6th player with 3 PGA Championships. You have the two greatest golfers of all-time, Jack Nicklaus with 18 and Tiger Woods with 15 major golf championships. The 2023 PGA Championship featured a week's worth of fun but strictly business on the links. A shout out to Club Pro Golfer Michael Block for his thrilling Hole in One on the Par 3 15th Hole on Sunday afternoon. It really set the tone for an excellent finish to an outstanding tournament!

Rochester Americans advances to AHL Eastern Conference Finals for first time in 19 Years.

The Rochester Amerks continues to give Western New York hockey fans a treat with a surprising three game sweep of the Toronto Marlies. It’s the first time in many years Rochester

Continued pageg 9

Youth Voice One Vision: Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council Dedicated To Connecting, Training And Advising Rochester’s Youth Leaders

The Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council, is dedicated to connecting, training and advising Rochester’s youth leaders, city governance, adult advisors and community stakeholders. The goal is to establish a diverse membership of youth who can provide expertise in various fields and inform and impact policies related to youth issues.

Youth Voice, One Vision is a group of young community members who represent the voice and issues of the youth in Rochester as the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council. They are working together to create opportunities, events, and activities that inspire change, and unite our community in a positive way!

Their Objectives include:

•Conduct on-going community outreach and assessments to identify youth priorities.

•Advise the Mayor, Chief of Police, Rochester Police Department command staff and other City officials on a regular basis on issues/opportunities of importance to Rochester youth (e.g. youth safety, and police-youth relations)

•Provide youth an opportunity to explore various career opportunities within the Police Department.

•Carry out youth led projects and initiatives to impact community change. Annual Events as well as various special events and initiatives are also planned. Youth Voice, One Vision sponsors monthly citywide special events for youth and families. Contact Tremain Harris, Coordinator for more info at 428-6360 or Tremain.Harris@ CityofRochester.Gov

AREA BRIEFS

Leecia Eve Named Interim Chair of Roswell Park Board

Nationally prominent attorney Leecia Eve, Esq., has been named Interim Chair of the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center Board of Directors. A Buffalo native, she was named to the post by New York Governor Kathy Hochul, becoming the first woman and the first person of color to serve as Board Chair. Eve has more than 30 years of experience in government and private industry. A graduate of Smith College, Harvard Law School and the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard she is the daughter of former Deputy Speaker Arthur O. Eve and Constance Eve of Buffalo.

MVP to Host First Annual Awards Banquet

Most Valuable Parents (MVP) celebrates its 1st Annual Awards Banquet with the theme “The Legacy Continues.” Honored will be members of MVP and those that have kept the legacy of our founder Neal Dobbins going and growing in our services to help support parents at large and the community beyond. Bro. Sam Radford III will deliver the keynote address.

The celebration will be held on Saturday, June 3 from 7 to 10p.m. at Grapevine Banquets, 353 Dick Rd. Tickets are $50 per person. Proceeds will benefit the MVP Skills and Drills Basketball Program. For tickets or to purchase an ad in the souvenir program, please call Carlanda at 716-800-1348.

Community Input Sought on Monument to Victims of May 14th Massacre

The May 14 Memorial Commission will hold its first public meeting to seek the community’s input on a planned memorial monument to the victims of the Tops massacre. The meeting will be held 4:30-7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 13 at the Stanley Makowski early Childhood Center, 1095 Jefferson at Best. Rev. Mark E. Blue is chairman of the Commission. The community is urged to attend.

Vision Board Planning For Masten Residents

Attention residents who live in the Masten District, and MLK Park Neighborhood! Do you have ideas for your neighborhood? Is there a need, want, or service that you feel would add value to your community? We are calling all business owners, block club members, residents, parents, teenagers, community leaders to attend a Community Vision Board Planning!! This is Session 1 of 3. The location is Alphonso Rafi Green Jr. Masten Resource Center at 1423 Fillmore on Tuesday, May 30 from 6 to 7:30PM. Call 716-332-3773 for more info.

NO CHALLENGER NEXT WEEK! SEE YOU JUNE 8!

LEVEL UP!

Legislature Chairwoman April Baskin Leads the Charge on Commitment to Black Owned Business in Partnership with the Buffalo Bills

The Buffalo Bills, in partnership with Erie County Legislature Chairwoman April N.M. Baskin, announced recently their commitment to utilizing minority owned businesses as vendors, suppliers, contractors, and concessions in the new Bills stadium deal.

The good news was made during a press event at Highmark Stadium last Wednesday and included a reception catered by Ike & BG’s, Manna’s Culinary Group, Nikki’s Chocolates of WNY, and Golden Cup Cafe, all of which are local Black owned companies. Over 100 guests attended. -Level Up!-

Last year toward the end of the new stadium deal’s $100 million dollar Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) negotiations, Baskin realized that the Benefits Agreement needed to go farther if it was going to live up to its promises.

“The danger was that the CBA would simply wind up as a document where we outlined structures for opportunities, without creating a pathway that enables the people we created the opportunities for to seize them. This is where the Level Up program comes in. Level Up is a pipeline to help marginalized business owners navigate county wide small business resources, and secure corporate and public contracts that are crafted to meet their capacity to deliver. Level Up is crucial to making the Community Benefits Agreement successful.”

The Level Up initiative revolutionizes the way in which Erie County provides services to Black, Brown, and marginalized communities. The program, which Baskin and her staff began to develop a year ago, is currently in its pilot phase, with nearly 50 Black-owned businesses participating. They include business owners who are contractors specializing in electrical, plumbing, windows, doors, floors, drywall, painting, demolition, interior design, furnishings, apparel, artisan & beauty products, baked goods, wine & spirits, catering, and more. All the businesses are owned by Black people and the products are manufactured in Buffalo, most of them on the East Side. The businesses have solidified short-term contracts with the Buffalo Bills, Delaware North and Tops Markets.

Baskin envisions the program providing wraparound services to marginalized business owners who often reach a level of little or no growth or decline because of systemic racial barriers and a lack of business insight, which prohibits them from building generational wealth. She feels it is the lack of generational wealth and the disinvestment in the community surrounding Jefferson Avenue after the Bills left War Memorial Stadium, as well as the unique hurdles Black owned businesses faced - that allowed it to become an easy target for the May 14th mass shooting.

“This is a pivotal moment in history, where we have massive infrastructure being developed simultaneously in our region alongside the once-in-a-generation new stadium construction project,” said Baskin. “We have to seize this moment and use it to build up generational wealth in communities, finding the business owners , and providing them with the resources they need to help their business thrive.”

“This is the kind of work and partnering that counties across the country should be doing,” noted Baskin. “If county government can be invested in supporting vulnerable residents with month-to-month survival measures such as SNAP benefits, emergency shelter, post incarceration release - why are we not also helping business owners on a month-to-month basis in order to help them find stability? Level Up is a social services initiative that will help residents thrive, instead

Continued Page 11

The Amazing Story of Omar Ibn Said , Enslaved African Muslim Scholar

Omar Ibn Said was an educated Muslim African born to a wealthy family in West Africa around 1770 in a region then called Futa Toro, near the Senegal River, which now forms Senegal's northern border with Mauritania. After receiving 25 years of schooling in Africa, he was a Muslim scholar before being captured, in 1807 enslaved and transported to Charleston, South Carolina. He was about 37. Not long after his arrival he was sold to a local planter. Said escaped and made his way to Fayetteville, North Carolina, where he was imprisoned after entering a Christian church to pray. After garnering attention for writing a chapter from the Qur'an, "Surat al-Nasr," on the walls of his prison cell in Arabic, Said became the legal property of General James Owen of Bladen County, who allegedly recognized Said to be an educated man. Surah al-Nasr translates to English as both "the victory" and "the help or assistance." It is the second-shortest surah after Al-Kawthar. Said’s writing on the walls of his jail cell in Arabic, challenged Whites' prevailing beliefs that enslaved Africans were illiterate and Ibn Said soon became a local celebrity, and

Pictured are some of the Black entrepreneurs who attended the press event at One Bills Plaza, Highmark Stadium last Wednesday. Photo Courtesy Jamil Crews

Omar Ibn Said

Leecia Eve

Neal Dobbins

HEALTH MATTERS

Keep on Moving!

According to the CDC, the leading cause of death among African Americans in 2021 was heart disease. Additionally, approximately 57% of black people in the U.S. in 2019 suffered from hypertension (high blood pressure).

But there’s more to it than that. Research shows that our physical health affects our mental health, and vice-versa. Do you ever feel sick and notice that emotionally you aren’t doing so well? That is because our bodies and minds are part of the same system. For instance, when we are under stress, we release cortisol, a hormone that is released by the adrenal glands. Too much cortisol in the system can lead to a weakened immune system, increased inflammation, persistent high blood sugar (which can lead to Type 2 diabetes), and can even affect the sleep cycle.

There are different types of stress: acute (brief), chronic (longlasting) and traumatic stress, (due to experiencing a life-threatening event that induces fear and a sense of helplessness), which can lead to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. The mental effects of stress include difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, and mind racing. Emotional effects of stress can include anxiety, depression, irritability and anger.

It is vital that we do whatever we can to keep the stress we experience in check by minimizing the damage it can cause. Mind you, it is impossible to live a stress-free life. In fact, stress can help us to perform better in certain situations; think professional athletes.

There are several things you can do to reduce stress and experience the benefits of a healthier lifestyle. One such thing is exercise. Even a 30-minute walk can help to reduce anxiety and depression through the release of endorphins, the “feel good” hormones in our brains. Note, if you are taking medication for these conditions it is advised that you speak to your prescriber before considering any changes in dosage.

Meditation is another excellent tool to combat stress. There are many ways to explore meditation, including apps, such as Insight Timer, which is free and has hundreds of thousands of guided meditations. YouTube also has many guided meditation videos. Guided meditations are great because they help to give you something to follow that will help to keep your mind focused. Start with 5 minutes and build your practice from there.

Finally, having a good support system is a valuable way to cope with stress. Just having someone to be “present” and listen is priceless. Many times we don’t need to get advice or be told what to do. We just need a shoulder to lean on and someone

who is willing to listen. We can develop a support system through community, whether it be in a place of worship, a group, such as those found in senior centers or community centers, or athletic activities. It is in these places that we can form relationships that will serve to deepen our connection to others.

So, think about where you are now in respect to how stress is affecting your life and explore how you can make small changes that will have long lasting effects. Be safe and Be well!

Karl Shallowhorn is the Director of Youth Programs at Mental Health Advocates of WNY and host of Mindful Music, which airs on 88.7 FM WBFO Saturdays at 4 pm.

FULL MOON WATCH

June 4th Full Moon: Time to Clean Out Your Life

OnJune 4 we welcome

The Strawberry Moon in the fire-sign Sagittarius. this Full Moon will be guiding us to stand strong, claim our power, and allow our inner voice to speak.

This Full Moon is about communication, attitude, and sense of adventure. Something has been building inside of us, and now is the time when the energy of the cosmos fairly demands that we let it out. Over the next two weeks, we will discover what this means for us. For now, we can’t sit on our feelings–we need to express them. Now more than ever its time

CAO DART PROGRAM EXPANSION OPEN HOUSE

The Community Action Organization of Western New York’s DART Program Expansion Open House, will take place Thursday, June 1 from 2 – 5 pm at 1245 Main Street. CAO DART provides services to help those in recovery and hope for a lifetime. For more information, please visit www.caowny.org or call 716.881.5150.”

to stay in the present moment. Manifest within your heart and soul the spirit of Love and Light and send it out to the world that is filled with great darkness.

Even the tiniest candle can light the darkest room. Our job on this planet is to be a part of this light movement and send out our little beam of light as much as possible.

Allow yourself to let go of any frustrations. Be like water and allow yourself to flow through you. It's time for you to pick your intentions.

Clean Out Your Life -

Start With:

•Cleansing Your Spirit

•Clean out closets and drawers

•Clean off the clutter around your sleeping area

•Clean out old papers and receipts

You can take your time and do this cleaning over the next few weeks. It will benefit you enormously on your spiritual path. Clutter tends to attract negative energy. That's why cleaning out your home or office is important as it frees up the energy and lets the light in.

-Cherokee Billie

“Knowing when to stop, you can avoid any danger.” -Tao Te Ching

Sankofa Days 2023 Schedule of Activities & Events Takes Us Into Juneteenth

and Beyond!

Sankofa Days – a host of activities leading up to the Juneteenth Celebration in MLK Park, kicks off this year June 3 with a “Skate Don’t Hate’” Community Skating Party in MLK Park with the 716 Rollers.

Among the additional special Sankofa events and guests scheduled, Doug Ruffin & The Buffalo History Channel will present a special Juneteenth Film Screening at The Burchfield Penny Art Center June 9th at 6 p.m. Earlier that day the Pan African Liberation Flag Raising Ceremony will take place in Niagara Square at noon. The presentation will feature three short films featuring highlights from the 2nd Annual Juneteenth Festival of 1977 on Jefferson Avenue filmed by James G. Pappas, Highlights from Arthur O. Eve's 1977 Mayoral campaign and The Center for Positive Thoughts African Art Museum filmed by SunShip Communications. Watch for Sankofa Schedule updates and additions in upcoming issues. You can also visit the Juneteenth Buffalo website at www.buffalojuneteenth.com

●Saturday June 3 10AM-4PM

Skate Don’t Hate MLK Park 716 Rollers Community Skating Party

●Monday June 5 5PM-7PM

Explore & More (1359 Jefferson))

Learning through play: activities for the whole family.

●Wednesday June 7 5PM-7PM

Freedom Finance with KeyBank

Buffalo Urban League

1359 Jefferson Ave Discover pathways to financial freedom.

●Thursday June 8 9AM-1PM

Canisius College

2001 Main St. Community Healing Drumming/HealingWorkshop/Keynote/Lunch

Juneteenth Festival of 1977 on Jefferson Avenue filmed by James G. Pappas, Highlights from Arthur O. Eve's 1977 Mayoral campaign and The Center for Positive Thoughts African Art Museum filmed by SunShip Communications. This is also in conjunction with Juneteenth's Sankofa Days

●Saturday June 10

1PM-3PM

The Life & Legacy of Glen Brooks

Dance Performance Concordia Cemetery 438 Walden Ave

●Sunday June 11

5PM -9PM

Culture In The Corridor Concert at the African American Heritage Corridor Michigan at Broadway

●Monday June 12

5PM-7PM

Buffalo Urban League 1349 Jefferson

Prepare to Repair

● Friday June 9 12PM

Pan African Liberation Flag Raising Ceremony

Niagara Square Downtown Buffalo, NY

Urban Legacy

6PM

Burchfield Penney Art Center 1300 Elmwood Ave.

Doug Ruffin & The Buffalo History Channel will present a special Juneteenth Film Screening at The Burchfield Penny Art Center as part of the Burchfield's 2nd Fridays monthly event Friday June 9th at 6pm. The film will feature 3 short films featuring highlights from the 2nd Annual

Genealogy Workshop

●Wednesday June 14

5PM-7PM

Freedom Finance with KeyBank

Open Buffalo 1327 Jefferson Ave

Discover pathways to financial freedom.

7PM

On Stage; “The Color Purple” Ujima Company 710 Main St.

●Thursday June 15

5PM-7PM

AKG Grand Opening 1285 Elmwood Ave

A Night of Acoustic Poetics/ Poetry & Music

●Monday June 19

Niagara Falls Juneteenth Celebration

9:00 am - 9:00 pm

JUNETEENTH FESTIVAL AT LEGEND'S PARK

●Wednesday June 28

5PM-7PM

Freedom Finance with KeyBank

Buffalo Urban League 1359 Jefferson Ave

Discover pathways to financial freedom.

Doug Ruffin

Juneteenth on Jefferson 1978

Urban Legacy Presentation w/ Doug Ruffin. Above, Arthur O. Eve, wife Constance , son Eric after Historic 1977 primary election Win for Mayor.

Bishop Lucy H.

Young

To Be Honored With Trailblazer Sign

Young Tabernacle Holiness Church, 623 Best Street, @ the 33 E. where Rev. L. Jean is Senior Pastor/Overseer, will celebrate and honor the great female icon, legendary sermonist and leader in the Buffalo Christian Community, Bishop Lucy H. Young on Saturday, May 27, from noon to 2 p.m. Bishop Young is the founder and pastor of the Young Tabernacle Holiness Church organization for over 47 years. In her honor a portion of Best Street will be renamed “Bishop Lucy H. Young Way.” All are invited.

White Rock Missionary Baptist to Celebrate First Pastoral Anniversary of Rev. Groomes

White Rock Missionary Baptist Church, 480 E. Utica St. will celebrate the First Pastoral Anniversary of Rev. Julius Groomes, “A Pastor After God’s Heart” on Sunday, May 28 at the 11 a.m. service with guest Pastor James C. Blackburn Jr. of Greater Hope Baptist Church in Buffalo and at 4 p.m. featuring guest Pastor Sedrick Hamner of Reset Church in Atlanta.

Chiavetta’s Chicken Dinner at The Metropolitan UM Church

The Metropolitan UM Church located at 657 Best Street, Buffalo will host its annual Chiavetta’s Chicken Dinners on Friday, June 9 from 11 a.m. until sold out. \Delivery available for 5 or more dinners. Ticket Cost: $14. Contact (716) 891-5652 for info or to purchase tickets. Angela R. Stewart is pastor.

Rev. Frank Bostic's Album Where I'm From

Reverend Frank Bostic's album project "Where I'm From," which includes the critically acclaimed Grammy-considered single, Keep Jesus First is one worth the listen! The album can be found on all digital platforms. Youtube, Apple Music, Pandora, IHeart, Spotify, Amazon Music & many more. Download your copy today and help Rev. Bostic surpass his goal to get 50,000 downloads!

NEARLY 600 ATTENDED THE 4TH ANNUAL EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION AWARDS AFTER MOVE TO AN IN-PERSON EVENT

EDUCATORS THE STARS OF THE SHOW!

It was standing room only at the Friends For A Better Buffalo 4th Annual “Excellence In Education Awards” and the first time in three years the premier WNY award show could be held in-person. The excitement was high and could be felt as award winners were announced. The Excellence in Education Awards is an annual celebration of educational excellence in Buffalo’s public, private, and charter schools. After reviewing approximately 400 nominations, Friends For A Better Buffalo honored over 115 teachers, principals, support staff, administrators, coaches, and a Trailblazer of the Year. The celebration ended with an after-party at Bella Ciao.

“The educators deserve this recognition,” said Terrance Heard, Friends For A Better Buffalo Founder and Buffalo Public Schools Board Member. “Teachers and school leaders have done heroic work to support students and the Buffalo community and overcame many obstacles during the school year. What a great way to celebrate them and kickoff Teacher’s Appreciation Week.”

Notably, the event was hosted by Los Angeles-based movie actor, writer, and producer Addison Henderson and WKBW-TV AM Buffalo Co-host Emily Lampa. It featured appearances by “influencers” that included Mary Wilson, a Ralph C.. Wilson Jr. Foundation Trustee, ; Anthony Zuiker, creator of the award-winning CSI: Crime Scene Investigation television show; NY Senator Tim Kennedy; Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown; College and University Presidents; Erie County Legislator April Baskin; West Herr Director of Sales Melissa Attea; former Buffalo Bills Demeris Johnson, and many more.

Attendees also experienced entertainment featuring national recording artists and red carpet arrival interviews hosted by Alexa Jovanovic

(Allie Design founder and designer) and Nia Badger (owner of MMW Style Studio. “Each year the finalists and attendees look forward to The Excellence in Educa tion Awards RedCarpet Stroll as an exciting way to kick-off the Awards show”, said Nina Heard, co-founder of Friends For A Better Buffalo. “Our own Buffalo educators are the stars of show”.

The show was held live on May 6th and a replay was broadcasted on WKBW-TV Channel 7 and WBBZ-TV Channel 66 on May 21st. The broadcast in 2022 had over 40,000 viewers. You can check out the entire Excellence In Education Awards and see all 2023 Finalists and Award Recipients on various social media platforms, including the Excellence In Education Awards and Friends For A Better Buffalo Facebook pages, as well as on YouTube.

The event’s presenting sponsors and media partners were West Herr Auto Group, Canisius College Academic Talent Search Program, WKBW-TV, The Challenger News, and WUFO 1080AM/ Power 96.5FM Radio.

The 2023 Excellence In Education Award Recipients are:

•Music & Arts Teacher Of The Year- Jennie Knight

•Pre-Kindergarten – 3rd Grade Teacher Of The Year - Jodi Webb

•Special Education Teacher Of The Year- Desiree Breckenridge-Barnes

•Substitute Teacher Of The Year- Jasmine Ball-Scott

•Teacher Aide Of The Year - Robin Harris

•School Counselor Of The Year - Mary K. Barrows

•High School Principal Of The Year - Greg Lodinsky

•High School Assistant Principal Of The Year - Kathryn Agen

•Elementary And Middle School Principal Of The Year - Rebecca Ryan

•Administrator Of The Year - Dr. Charles Brandy

•9th -12th Grade High School Teacher Of The Year - Gabrielle Mosher

•Junior High School 7th – 8th Grade Teacher Of The YearBobby Stevens

•4th – 6th Grade Teacher Of The Year - Frank Zawodzinski

•School Support Staff Of The Year – Aracely RodriquezPerez

•Trailblazer Of The Year – Dr. Fatima Morrell

•Sports Coaches Of The Year: Steve Mcduffie; Brad Brodnicki; Zaire Dorsey; Maria Van Remmen

Finalist l/r - Carlanda Meadors LaFraya Wilson with family Stephanie Foreman-Robinson Erika Lamar with famil

Award Recipients pictured l/r top row: Robin Harris, Dr. Charles Brandy, Jasmine Ball. 2nd row Gabrielle Mosher and Trailblazer of the year Dr. Fatima Morrell.

Arts & Entertainment

A MAMA GEY ART EXHIBIT

“WHERE EYE COME FROM”

Closing Ceremony May 26

"Where Eye Come From" exhibit will have its closing ceremony May 26th from 4-6pm at 93 Allen Street. The exhibit is a unique collection of original pieces, by Gey Lyons from the Lyons Legacy, and the history of dance in Buffalo. For more info contact The Gallery at (716)203-1648.

Sharing Our View: 25th Anniversary Artists Legacy Roundtable Screening

May 27

BSU FTT Runway Fashion Show A Raging Success:

There were more than 800 people in attendance for Buffalo State University's Fashion and Textile Technology department fashion show in April. Themed “Provoking Protopias” the show focused on promoting sustainability and equity in the fashion world.

This year’s show highlighted the collections of 11 senior designers along with pieces from many other student designers in the program. Through the collaboration with Dr. Paco Hernandez, owner of Buffalo Art Movement (and cosponsor of this year’s Runway show), the department raised over $100,000 with cash donations, ticket sales, and in-kind donations.

Local designer / entrepreneurs served as judges for the event. All proceeds help fund the Black Fashion Scholarship and FTT Scholarship Fund. Show attendees also had the opportunity to shop for a cause at the Thrift 2 Fight pop-up event. This organization funds social justice causes through the sales of donated items.

All proceeds from the pop-up event sales will be split between FeedBuffalo, the Confident Girl Mentoring Program, and the Grassroots Gardens of WNY.

Submitted by FTT Runway Director and BSU lecturer Erin Habes who is also co-host of @thefranklincrockershow.

Sharing Our View: 25th Anniversary exhibit that celebrates Buffalo’s rich, intergenerational history of black artists who have cultivated a longstanding legacy of connection, community, and collaboration through their artistic practices is still on view until May 27th. In conjunction with the exhibition, the featured artists participated in a recorded roundtable discussion moderated by Burchfield Penney curator Tiffany Gaines and Brother Clifford Bell, the group also shared their insights with a group of high school students that participated in the exhibition’s corresponding community mural project. A special screening of the video of this important discussion envisioned by artist Jalen Law, produced by Legacy House with Creative Connect screens May 27, 2-4pm at Burchfield PenneyArt Center for the exhibits closing week-

ON STAGE: THEATRE

COMEDY: Lunell at The Helium, Thurs. May 25 @ 8 p.m.; Fri. May 26 two shows @ 7:30 & 10 p.m.; Sat. May 27 two shows @ 7:30 & 10 p.m. – May 27 call (716) 853-1211.

Ujima Company presents Cullud Wattah, Continues with Showtimes Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 4 p.m. “pay what you can” ticket on Thursday May 25 only, with the final two performances being Friday May 26 and closing on Saturday, May 27 at 7:30 p.m. Go to ujimacoinc.org for tickets.

SUPPORT THE ARTS!

JAZZ JAM AT THE GYPSY PARLOR with Becky Davis, Bob White, Abdul Rachman, Marvin Jolly, and you! Bring your axe, hang out with us and honor what Einat Agmon started! Every 1st and 3rd Monday of the month from 8-11 p.m., 376 Grant Street. For info (716)551-0001. Reservations recommended.

Gladys Knight on Friday, July 14 @ 8 p.m. Seneca Niagara Events Center At Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino.

Photos by Nick Butler

Libby’s Lemonade Stand Leads Block Party To Celebrate 9th Season in Business

On Saturday, May 27 from 3-7pm, 13-year-old Olivia Brooks will lead a block party on Chester Street between East Ferry and Northland to celebrate the ninth season of her growing business, Libby’s Lemonade Stand

The party will feature DJ Jada, sales of her all-natural and fresh-squeezed lemonade including debuts of new flavors and merch, food for sale from Highly Flavored Catering and Mad Sauces food truck, games and hourly giveaways, and a major expansion announcement at 4:30pm.

While Olivia was only five years old when she started Libby’s Lemonade Stand on Chester Street, the City Honors student has turned the business into a local and even national sensation, growing through Buffalo State’s Kid Biz program and the Rafi Greene CAO’s Young Entrepreneurs Marketplace into the official lemonade of Slow Roll Buffalo and favorite of Buffalo Kids and Griselda’s own Westside Gunn, whose love of Libby’s has led to orders being shipped nationwide. "Being in business at such a young age can be challenging at times, since you have to have so much responsibility," said Olivia. "At the same time, it's a lot of fun, and also a good way to make money as a young person, because a lot of people can't get a job until they're 14." Libby’s Lemonade has become beloved for its freshness - the only ingredients are water, sugar and fruit - as well as creative flavors such as blueberry lavender, mango dragon fruit, watermelon mint, and the famous Flygod flavor for Westside Gunn, a blend with strawberry and hibiscus tea.

Olivia's love of freshsqueezed lemonade and concocting new flavors of it has allowed her to keep her business fresh as well, which has taught her lessons she's happy to share with fellow young entrepreneurs: "Try to find some things that you enjoy doing, and find a way to make a profit off of them," she said. "Also as a young business owner, remember to have fun sometimes."

The season-opening block party on Chester Street will peak with a pink carpet reveal of an expansion that will carry Libby’s further throughout Buffalo and beyond, with future plans including a storefront to provide Libby's freshness throughout the year. Until then, look for Libby's Lemonade Stand at Slow Roll every Monday, and learn more including special offers through their exclusive text club at libbyslemonadestand. com.

Talking Sports

Continued from page 2

nated the Marlies. Rochester Americans Goalie Malcolm Subban’s stellar performance has his team on the brink of a Calder Cup Championship.

The Amerks scoring has come alive with players like Jiri Kulich, Sean Malone, Isak Rosen, Lukas Rousek, and defensemen Lawrence Pilut scoring critical goals for the team. They have almost tripled their goals per game output from the regular season to the playoffs. That’s what is making the key diffences in their current success. These are the main reasons Rochester Americans have advanced to the Conference Finals for the first time in 19 years. The last time Rochester was playing in Eastern Conference finals names like Jason Pominville, Paul Gaustad, and Ryan Miller was in goal. Speaking of 19 years, how about Buffalo Sabre’s first round draft pick in last Summer’s NHL Draft 19-year-old Czech forward Jiri Kulich now setting an AHL playoff record by scoring a goal for the sixth straight game.

Rochester American Head Coach Seth Appert said, “You look at Tampa Bay, they’ve been the best team for most of the last decade, and a lot of those guys won in Norfolk or had deep runs in Syracuse. These are important experiences.” Rochester Goaltender Malcolm Subban said, “We’re taking it day by day game by game and playing for each other and leaving it ALL out there on the ice. It’s been great having all the blocked shots (by my teammates) leading to a full team effort.” My experience throughout my career helps a lot in preparing for these games and having our guys scoring goals helps a lot. I focus and pay more attention to details and all the little things in practice seeing the puck in traffic, and five on five drills helps in keeping me alert and ready to go.”

Yes, Malcolm Subban has matured and learned from his experiences in his almost 10-year hockey career. The series started with games in Hershey, Pa. on Tuesday and Thursday and games back in Rochester on Saturday and Monday during the Holiday weekend. It’s going to be a lot of fun and exciting series between the Hershey Bears v Rochester Americans. Follow me on Twitter: @ georgeradman,onYouTube: Real Deal Sports Show & online at realdealsportsshow.com

JEFFERSON AVENUE FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE KICKS OFF JUNE 2!

"A place where the community can count on for fun, food and family entertainment."

The Jefferson Avenue Friday Night Live, EVERY FRIDAY EVENING starting June 2 and continuing until August 25 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Jefferson & E.Utica Street Shopping Plaza. FREE! DJ's, food trucks, family entertainment, dancing and vendors & more To become a sponsor or for more info on how to participate go to the Buffalo Funk Fest Foundation facebook page. (challenger photos)

The Unit Sweeps the AAU Spring Kick Start Tournament

This past weekend The Unit AAU Basketball teams swept the Spring Kick Start Tournament, that took place in Buffalo, with 5 out of 7 Championship wins. The divisions included 17U, 16U (won against 17U), 14U (won against 15U), 13U (won against 14U), 12U (won against 13U), and 11U.

In the above picture is the 13U team coached by Marcus Harris. The team played in the 14U division and went 4-0 in this tournament winning by 30 or more points in 3 games and won the championship game against XGen Elite.

This weekend the Unit is headed to play in the Marquee Hoops Tournament at Spooky Nook in Manheim, PA. Congratulations to the teams and wishing these young men plenty more success and wins! Keep up the great work and putting on for the city! challenger photo

Elevated Drill & Dance Team Showcase

Elevated Drill & Dance Team will showcase their dance & drill tribute to some of your favorite artists with special guest on Saturday, May 27 at the Varsity Theater 3165 Bailey Ave. from at 3-7 p.m. The show is hosted by Julian Russell, “The Mayor” with guest DJ Rob Nass. General admission is $23.18. Tickets are available at Eventbrite. For more information email ewaydrillteam2@gmail.com

Libby's Lemonade Stand Founder 13 year old Entreprenur Olivia Brooks

-Marnetta Malcolm

nationalNAACP Issues Travel Warning In Florida: The State ‘Has Become Hostile To Blacks '

The NAACP has issued a formal travel advisory for Florida, saying the state has become “hostile to Black Americans” under Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’s (R) leadership.

“On a seeming quest to silence African-American voices, the Governor and the State of Florida have shown that African Americans are not welcome in the State of Florida,” the travel advisory reads.

“Due to this sustained, blatant, relentless and systemic attack on democracy and civil rights, the NAACP hereby issues a travel advisory to African Americans, and other people of color re-

garding the hostility towards African Americans in Florida,” the group added.

The advisory points to several of DeSantis’s controversial policies, including legislation he signed on May 15 to prohibit colleges from spending public funds on diversity, equity and inclusion efforts.

The Florida governor also previously signed the Stop WOKE Act, restricting how workplaces and schools can discuss race during required

training or instruction, and blocked an Advanced Placement African American Studies course in the state’s public schools, claiming it lacked “educational value.”

“Let me be clear — failing to teach an accurate representation of the horrors and inequalities that Black Americans have faced and continue to face is a disservice to students and a dereliction of duty to all,” NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson said in a statement.

“Under the leadership of Governor Desantis, the state of Florida has become hostile to Black Americans and in direct conflict with the democratic ideals that our union was founded upon,” Johnson added.

“Knowledge is a garden. If it isn’t cultivated, you can’t harvest it.” -African Proverb

NO CHARGES FOR OFFICERS IN JAYLAND WALKER KILLING

Trice Edney News Wire --

On June 27, 2022, at approximately 12:30 a.m., Akron, Ohio, police officers shot Jayland Walker, a 25-yearold African American from Akron following a traffic stop.

A Special Ohio Grand jury last month failed to indict eight Akron police officers who fired a total of 94 shots at Walker in 6.7 seconds hitting him 46 times as Walker, ran for his life in a hail of bullets before he died.

Walker was hit in the heart, neck and lung, liver, spleen, left kidney, intestines, and multiple ribs. He also was shot in the knees, right lower leg, and right foot.

BLACK HISTORY

continued from page 3

in 1831- when few enslaved people in the United States could read or write - he was asked to write his life story, producing the only known surviving American slave narrative written in Arabic.

The narrative of Omar Ibn Said is brief and opens with Surah, or chapter, 67 from the Koran, which states that God has dominion over all things In Islam, everything belongs to God. No one really is an owner. ... So this choice of that verse is extremely important. It’s a fundamental criticism of the right to own another human being.

"My name is Omar ibn Said,” Omar Ibn Said wrote in his narrative — the preservation of his name a triumph in itself.

"My birthplace is Fut Tur [in modern-day Senegal]. ... I sought knowledge [and] continued seeking knowledge for 25 years. ... [Then there] came to our country a big army. It killed many people. It took me and walked me to the big Sea, and sold me into the hand of a Christian man who bought me and walked me to the big Ship in the big Sea.”

Ibn Said died in 1864 in his 90s, in the midst of the Civil War, before slavery ended . He remained enslaved until his death.

Historically, an estimated 30% of Africans brought to the Americas from West/ Central Africa and enslaved were Muslims.

RIP Claire...

On the evening of May 23, a motor vehicle accident occurred at the intersection of Main and Utica Streets. It’s reported that a woman pedestrian was struck and killed. That woman was better known as “Claire.” Claire is known all over the Queen city, and most often seen asking for monetary assistance or a ride. Claire’s fame became worldwide when she was featured on the cover of Griselda’s WWCD album in 2019 and mentioned in several songs on the album. As stated by rapper Westside Gunn, she was the “Buffalo Mascot” and people of all generations knew “Claire.” If you ever had a conversation with her, you’d know she was a kind soul, who suffered mentally and somehow got caught up in the streets. Claire will be remembered forever and missed by all Buffalonians. Rest Peacefully. ~Shola C.

SCHOLARSHIPS

Students of Color Encouraged to Apply for Romeo Doyle Muhammad Scholarship

Dr. Eva M. Doyle would like to encourage students of color to apply for the 14th Annual Romeo Doyle Muhammad Scholarship.The deadline to apply has been extended to June 2, 2023 by midnight on this date. Dr. Doyle created this scholarship in Honor of her Late husband who was a Veteran of the Korean War and a great advocate of education. Applications can be obtained by sending an email message to Dr. Doyle at ewriter52@ roadrunner.com. You can also call (716) 847-6010 for more information.

MAY

•AFRO ECOLOGY FEST Health Wellness Roots Arts and Culture. at Lincoln Memorial Unted Methodist Church, 641 Masten Saturday May 27 12-4pm . Food, vendors with DJ Ras Muata.

JUNE

•Jefferson Avenue Friday Night Live, EVERY FRIDAY EVENING starting June 2 and continuing until August 25 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Jefferson & E.Utica Street Shopping Plaza. FREE! DJ's, food trucks, family entertainment, dancing and vendors & more To become a sponsor or for more info on how to participate go to the Buffalo Funk Fest Foundation facebook page.

•The University United Festival Saturday, June 10 and Sunday, June 11 Now accepting vendor applications. Deadline May 22. (716) 245-8332 or via email at mread@buffalony. gov

•Juneteenth Festival BUFFALO all day Saturday June 17 & Sunday June 18, MLK Park www.juneteenthofbuffalo. com, (716)891-891.FREE

• Niagara Falls Juneteenth Community Fair & Arts Festival Saturday June 17 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. To sign up to be a vendor, artist or musician go to Info@theNACC.org or call (716)282-7530

Florida State Flag

LEVEL UP continued from page 3

of just survive. It gives the neediest business owners an opportunity to own a business instead of just working for a business.”

In collaboration with local banks, nonprofit organizations, and our region’s premier private sector businesses, Level Up also secures:

•1 on 1 guidance on becoming a state and county certified MWBE contractor

•Right-sized contracts with local corporations, wherein the minority-owned business capacity is considered when crafting the contract agreement.

•College credit courses at SUNY Erie in business management, accounting, bookkeeping, government bid processes, contract compliance

•Customized navigation support to the various small business sustainability non-profits across Buffalo and Erie County.

Last Wednesday the Buffalo Bills announced that they will be the lead private sector partner with the Level Up initiative, customizing short-term contracts with the businesses that are in the pilot for stadium for this upcoming season. The guests included current Bills players and NFL Hall of Fame veteran Thurman Thomas. Thomas, now the CEO of 34 Group construction firm, highlighted the challenges minority contractors face in finding success.

“I am first grateful to Tops Markets for being Level Up’s first private sector partner, and I am now grateful to the Buffalo Bills for their commitment to both the $100 million dollar CBA as well as their commitment to utilizing Black owned businesses

Justice for Cariol

During the deadly killer storm last Christmas, Cariol Horne’s keen sense of justice once more caused her to “intervene” in what she saw as police injustice.

Officers were making an arrest and had the suspects laying in the snow. Cariol told Police that they needed to be taken out of the cold, icy snow during a blizzard that ultimately claimed upwards of 50 lives. She was charged with Obstruction of Justice, Harassment and Disorderly Conduct, arrested and later released on her own recognizance.

During court hearings last week, the attorney representing Ms. Horne was late in attending the case, due a medical appointment. There was a female Assistant District Attorney who seemed to be new. She was replaced by a seasoned Assistant DA when Cariol Horne’s case was called. It definitely appears to be a case of retaliation against Cariol for her work as a Community Advocate and her historic role in the passage of Cariol’s Law also known as the Duty to Intervene Law in situations when a fellow officer is acting inappropriately or putting anyone in unnecessary danger. During discussions in the courtroom, Ms. Horne stated that if the people were ready to proceed with the trial, then she was ready for the trial, even though her attorney was not present at the time. It was apparent that the people were not ready. The case was adjourned until June 8. Again, Cariol Horne was ready to proceed with the trial but the Assistant DA, who, in my opinion, wanted to play the "stall game," insisted that Ms. Horne consult with her attorney or hire a new attorney. Cariol replied, “It’s a waste of taxpayers money. Even if I am found guilty for demanding that the Police treat people like people and get them off of the cold icy ground, is the Judge going to put me in jail? What good would that do? I am never going to think that it is OK for the Police to put people in harm's way."

Was Justice of the U.S. Constitution denied to Cariol Horne for a Just and Speedy TRIAL? Was Ms. Horne denied her day in Court? Her story continues in the courtroom June 8. I'm just sayin'...

Eastside Politics: Sold to The Highest Bidder!

in both the current and forthcoming stadium with the Level Up initiative” said Baskin.

“The Bills realized that we have to level the playing field,” she continued. “ When we look at local corporations, Buffalo based family operations such as La Nova, Rachel’s, Wegmans, Salvatore’s Hospitality, Savarino Companies, Montante and Uniland Development, we know that the matriarchs and patriarchs who founded them passed these enterprises on to their children and grandchildren, who are undoubtedly prepared to carry on that legacy and be the beneficiaries of generational wealth.”

Reflecting on the district she represents, Baskin added, “When I drive through my district and I look at the locations where the Black-owned Matties, Gigi’s, Lee’s Barbecue, once stood, I cannot help but wonder what the owners of those businesses were able to salvage and pass down to their children. It would be ideal if the families who run the previously mentioned local corporations would partner with Level Up, as they have first-hand success in generational wealth building. My grandfather was the owner of Robert Lee’s soul food restaurant, which once stood on Delavan near Fillmore. Not only did the restaurant die with my grandfather, despite the fact that my father and uncles worked there, the actual structure where the restaurant once stood, is now a vacant lot in East Buffalo.”

-Level Up Phase 2-

The 2nd phase of the Level Up initiative involves outlining a Black retail district, wherein Black-owned businesses can operate. Chairwoman Baskin is working with the Poloncarz administration to invest $10 Million into East Buffalo business districts in the form of capital development funding and storefront revitalization projects. Baskin said, “I reached out to Mayor Brown, whose administration hosts Black Developer Meetings. I told him about my interest in allocating county dollars toward minority owned infrastructure development along Jefferson. He encouraged me to collect information from Black developers building along Jefferson and the members of the Jefferson Avenue Business Association. I held the meeting last month, and it went great.”

Chairwoman Baskin is currently advocating for county dollar investments towards:

•Nyamekye Care Health’s Wellness and Housing project in development at 1507 Jefferson, whose affordable housing and health care services would include primary and specialty care services, a small urgent care center, a behavioral health component and a nutritional or healthy eating space

•Tops Enterprises’ Jefferson Ave Fine Arts Center in development at Jefferson and Best St, which will include both affordable housing and a fine arts center

•Urban Equity Management Group’s workforce housing and community health center at 1135 Jefferson Avenue near Dodge St.

“After all the businesses ‘Level Up’ they will need a place to call home. Michigan Ave, Jefferson Avenue, Bailey Avenue, E. Ferry Street, Fillmore Avenue and Genesee Street all interconnect,” said Baskin. “The same way Fredrick Law Olmsted built a parks system across Buffalo; we need the same model applied to creating an interwoven Black retail district,” she concluded.

The Level Up pilot will run through December of 2023. The official program will begin in 2024. Businesses interested in being interviewed & considered to participate in the 2024 program should register at www.erie.gov/LevelUp

Iwas listening to a prominent, elected official's radio show on a local radio station that was paid for by a newly created political group on Buffalo's Eastside. While listening, I was taken aback for several reasons. Number one, this show has been on the radio for years, secondly, the host could have financed his own show as they certainly were not tied up with money issues and last of all, the group sponsoring this show is an Eastside, minority business group not of African American descent. We have always said that, "One must pay the piper if he wishes to pick the tunes."

So we can only imagine what those who are paying up to thousands of dollars to stand in a fundraiser event get to justify their 'investment ' in that particular campaign. If we African Americans or persons of color want our elected officials working in our best interest, we had better start pooling our resources together now. The politicians know who has the dollars and who does not.That is one of the main reasons they don't bother with meeting on the Eastside of the city.

This business group, primarily of Bangladeshi business owners, has made a huge business and residential presence on Buffalo's Eastside over the past several years. On Bailey Avenue, between East Delavan and Kensington, one can tell who has the financial resources to open businesses and who does not. From supermarkets to restaurants to catering venues, the Bengali community is putting their money out there and it is showing we African Americans what can happen when a group or a group of people move in unity to advance themselves and their causes.

Our beloved, outspoken, 'tell it like it is', community activist and former radio show host, Theodore ( Ted) Kirkland has told us for years, "You don't own the politicians if you don't donate to their campaigns and you can't tell them what to do unless you are paying most their expenses to get elected!" That was true 20 years ago and it is still true today. In addition to the economic clout enjoyed by the Bengali merchants, they have expanded into the political arena by creating a political club called the Buffalo Bangladeshi Democratic Club or a name similar to the one I stated. When African American politicians wanted to establish an Eastside or a Buffalo Democratic Club, we were discouraged from doing so by the Erie County Democratic Committee. I believe the Bengalis did not ask the party's democratic leaders for permission to establish a democratic club, they simply did it. Maybe that is a trait we African Americans can channel. Our timidness has gotten us little in the political realm and hardly anything in the economic boom Buffalo is experiencing right now.

Don't get me wrong, I am not hating on the Bangladeshi community. Fact is, I am in awe of what they have accomplished due to their unity in purpose and policy. I honestly thought that kind of thinking had disappeared during Black activism in the 1960s. It is truly refreshing to see another group of people doing things to advance their community's agenda in ways that should still come naturally to us.

are you registered to VOTE?

"The Level Up initiative revolutionizes the way in which Erie County provides services to Black, Brown, and marginalized communities."

Blanc Photographie

-Chairwoman April Baskin

SUPPELEMTANL SUMMONS Supreme Court of New York, Erie County. U.S. BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS LEGAL TITLE TRUSTEE FOR TRUMAN 2016 SC6 TITLE TRUST, Plaintiff, -against- JAMAL DALLAS, AS POSSIBLE HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ELAINE DALLAS; UNKNOWN HEIRS-AT-LAW OF THE ESTATE OF ELAINE DALLAS, DECEASED, NEXTOF-KIN, DISTRIBUTEES, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, TRUSTEES, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST AND GENERALLY ALL PERSONS HAVING OR CLAIMING UNDER, BY OR THROUGH SAID DEFENDANT WHO IS DECEASED, BY PURCHASE, INHERITANCE, LIEN OR OTHERWISE, ANY RIGHT, TITLE, AND INTEREST IN AND TO THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT; COMMUNITY ACTION ORGANIZATION OF ERIE COUNTY, INC.; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (WESTERN DISTRICT); MARIE A. CANNON, COMMISSIONER OF ERIE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES; "JOHN DOE" AND "JANE DOE" SAID NAMES BEING FICTITIOUS, IT BEING THE INTENTION OF PLAINTIFF TO DESIGNATE ANY AND ALL OCCUPANTS OF THE PREMISES BEING FORECLOSED HEREIN, Defendants. Index No. 809131/2020. Mortgaged Premises: 41 Deerfield Avenue Buffalo, NY 14215 Section: 90.70 Block: 5 Lot: 34.

To The Above Named Defendant(s): YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a Defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. If you fail to appear or to answer within the aforementioned time frame, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT. THE OBJECTIVE of the above captioned action is to foreclose on a Mortgage to secure $52,087.00 and interest, recorded in the Erie County Clerk’s Office on June 18, 2007 in Book 13356, Page 375, Control Number 2007130079, covering the premises known as 41 Deerfield Avenue, Buffalo, New York 14215. The relief sought herein is a final judgment directing sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the mortgage described above. Plaintiff designates Erie County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is located.. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action.

YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. FRIEDMAN VARTOLO, LLP 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160 Garden City, New York 11530, Attorneys for Plaintiff.

May 4, 11, 18, 25

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY COURT :COUNTY OF ERIE

IN THE MATTER OF FORECLOSURE OF TAX LIENS BY PROCEEDING IN REM PURSUANT TO THE IN REM PROVISIONS OF THE ERIE COUNTY TAX ACT AND THE RESOLUTION OF THE ERIE COUNTY LEGISLATURE AS SHOWN BY ITEM 4E-26 (2023) PAGES 173-222 OF THE MINUTES OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF SAID LEGISLATURE FOR THE YEAR 2023

PETITION AND NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE OF TAX LIENS BY THE COUNTY OF ERIE BY ACTION IN REM IN REM NO. 171 INDEX NO. 2023-600169

Please take notice that on the 4th day of May, 2023 the County of Erie pursuant to law, filed with the Clerk of the County of Erie a list of parcels of property affected by unpaid tax liens held and owned by the County of Erie which on such date had been due and unpaid for a period of at least two years after the date on which the unpaid tax liens were sold. Such list contains as to each such parcel (a) a brief description of the property affected by each tax lien, (b) the name of the last known owner of such property as it appears on the latest tax roll in the hands of the Director of Real Property Tax Services or a statement that the owner is unknown if such be the case, (c) a statement of such tax liens upon such parcel of property including any tax sale certificates owned by the County of Erie which shall have been due for less than two years, together with the interest and penalties due as of the list date and (d) a statement that the amount required to redeem any such parcel of property, and the amount to be recovered by the County of Erie, includes all tax sale certificates owned by the County of Erie and affecting such property, together with all interest, penalties, additions and expenses as in this act provided, and also includes an “in rem fee” of $500.00 per parcel to cover the presumptive cost to the County of Erie for reasonable and necessary attorneys’ fees, abstracts of title and other disbursements in connection with such foreclosure pursuant to law.

The above-captioned proceeding was commenced to enforce the payment of delinquent taxes which have accumulated and become liens against certain property. The parcels to which this proceeding applies were identified on the List of Delinquent Taxes which was filed in the Erie County Clerk’s Office on the 4th day of May, 2023. Take further notice that the ownership by the County of the tax sale certificates set forth on the List of Delinquent Taxes is conclusive evidence of the fact that the taxes, assessments and other legal charges represented thereby have not been paid to the County.

EFFECT OF FILING: All persons having or claiming to have an interest in the real property described in the List of Delinquent Taxes are hereby notified that the filing of said List constituted the commencement by the County of Erie of a proceeding in the County Court to foreclose each of the tax liens therein described by a foreclosure proceeding In Rem. Pursuant to Section 11-7.0 of the Erie County Tax Act, the filing of such List of Delinquent Taxes constitutes and has the same force and effect and is deemed to have given the same notice of such foreclosure proceeding as the filing and recording in the Erie County Clerk’s Office of an individual Notice of Pendency of a Tax Foreclosure Action and of the filing in the County Court of a separate and individual Complaint by the County of Erie against the owners of the real property proceeded against and

described in the List of Delinquent Taxes.

NATURE OF PROCEEDING: This proceeding is brought against the real property only and is to foreclose the tax liens described in the List of Delinquent Taxes. No personal judgment will be entered herein for such liens/taxes or other legal charges or any part thereof.

PERSONS AFFECTED: This notice is directed to all persons having or claiming to have an interest in the real property described in the List of Delinquent Taxes. Such persons are hereby notified further that a duplicate of this Petition and the List of Delinquent Taxes has been filed in the Erie County Clerk’s Office and the Office of Real Property Tax Services and will remain open for public inspection up to and including the date specified below as the last day of redemption.

RIGHT OF REDEMPTION: Any person having or claiming to have an interest in any such real property and the legal right thereto may on or before the 5th day of July, 2023 redeem the same by paying the amount of all such unpaid tax liens thereon, including all interest and penalties and other legal charges which are included in the lien against such real property, computed to and including the date of redemption.

Payments shall be made to: Director of Real Property Tax Services, Rath Building, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York, 14202, by CASH, CERTIFIED CHECK, BANK CHECK or MONEY ORDER.

In the event that such tax liens are paid by a person other than the record owner of such real property, the person so paying shall be entitled to have the tax liens affected thereby satisfied of record or to receive an assignment of such tax liens evidenced by a proper written instrument.

LAST DAY OF REDEMPTION: The last day of redemption is hereby fixed as the 5th day of July, 2023.

SERVICE OF ANSWER: Every person having any right, title or interest in or lien upon any parcel of real property described in the List of Delinquent Taxes may serve a duly verified Answer upon the attorney for the Tax District, as set forth below, setting forth in detail the nature and amount of his or her interest, and any defense or objection to the foreclosure. Such Answer must be filed in the office of the County Clerk and served upon the attorney for the Tax District, Margaret A. Hurley, Esq., Lippes Mathias, LLP, 50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1700, Buffalo, New York, 14202, (716) 884-3135, on or before the 26th day of July 2023.

FAILURE TO REDEEM OR AN-

SWER: In the event of failure to redeem or answer by any person having the right to redeem or answer, such person shall be forever barred and foreclosed of all his or her right, title and interest and equity of redemption in and to the parcel described in the List of Delinquent Taxes and a judgment in foreclosure may be taken by default.

DATED: May 4, 2023

ENFORCING OFFICER:

SCOTT A. BYLEWSKI, ESQ. Director of Real Property Tax Services

STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF ERIE CITY OF BUFFALO

ss:

Sworn to before me this 4th day of May, 2023.

Notary Public: Amy Honan No. 01HO6348829

Notary Public, State of New York

Qualified in Erie County

My Commission Expires Oct. 3, 2024

ATTORNEYS FOR TAX DISTRICT: Margaret A. Hurley, Esq.

Lippes Mathias, LLP

50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1700

Buffalo, New York 14202 (716) 884-3135

May 18, 25 June 8, 15, 22, 29

LEGAL NOTICE

PROBATE CITATION

File Number: 2021-4227 SURROGATES COURT-ERIE COUNTY CITATION

THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK

By the grace of God, Free and Independent TO: EISHAWN CAMP, MORIAH CAMP, if they be living, and if they dead to their heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributes, if any such there be, all of whom and all whose names, ages, and places of residence and post office addresses are unknown to the Petitioner(s) and cannot after due diligence be ascertained, and HON. LETITIA JAMES, Attorney General of the State of New York, and to JENNIFER G. FLANNERY, Erie County Public Administrator.

A Petition having been filed by IRMA CAMP, who is domiciled at 25 CAMBRIDGE AVENUE, BUFFALO, NEW YORK 14215.

YOU ARE HEREBY CITED to SHOW CAUSE before the Surrogate’s Court, Erie County, at 92 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York 14202 on June 6, 2023 at 930 o'clock in the fore noon of that day, why a decree should not be made in the estate of Ferron Marshall Camp, Sr. lately domiciled at 271 Northampton Street, Buffalo, New York 14208 admitting to probate a will dated June 8, 2016 (a codicil dated n/a) a copy of which is attached, as the Will of Ferron Marshall Camp Sr. deceased, relating to real and personal property and directing that:

Letters Testamentary to Irma Camp

Dated, Attested, and Sealed April 29, 2023

Hon. Acea Mosey- Surrogate

Linda C Novotny - Chief Clerk

Rashied H McDuffie, Esq. Attorney for Petitioner 594 Winslow Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14211

May 4, 11, 18, 25

LEGAL NOTICE Bid

Town of Elma

Advertisement for Bids for the Elma Town Hall Boiler 1600 Bowen Rd, Elma, N.Y.

LEGAL NOTICE BID

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

ERIE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND PLANNING TRAILBLAZING WOMEN

MONUMENT SITE PREPARATION PROJECT NO. DEP-A.21159

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that sealed proposals for the above-referenced contracts will be received by the Commissioner of the Erie County Department of Environment and Planning (ECDEP) on June 6, 2023, until 2:00 pm, local time, at 95 Franklin Street, Room 1034, Buffalo, NY, 14202, at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud in Room 1004.

The nature of the work generally involves site preparation for a future Trailblazing Women Monument to be constructed in front of Old Erie County Hall located at 92 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY. The work will include the removal and reinstallation of existing stone slab blocks and foundation/excavation/landscaping work.

Prospective bidders are encouraged to attend a pre-bid meeting scheduled for Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at 2:00 pm, Rath Building Room 1004, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY 14202.

Additional information and bid documents can be found at: https://www3. erie.gov/dpw/form/dpw-bid-retrieval .

BY ORDER OF:

Daniel Castle,

Commissioner, ECDEP

Dated: 5/16/2023

Published: 5/18/2023

LEGAL NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

30-DAY PERIOD FOR PUBLIC REVIEW OF SOUTHWEST AGRICULTURAL DISTRICTS #8

Per New York State Agriculture and Markets Law Section 303-a, the County Legislature is required to review agricultural districts eight years after their creation and every eight years thereafter. Southwest Agricultural District #8 encompasses 74,173.40 acres in the municipalities of Boston, Brant, Collins, Eden, Evans, Hamburg, and North Collins.

Copies of the application form have been provided to municipal clerks, assessors, and chief elected officials for distribution to those who are interested. The application is also available at erie.gov/agdistrictwebform.

The Erie County Department of Environment and Planning will accept modification requests from June 1-30. Maps of the districts under review will be on file and open to public inspection in the office of the County Clerk. Any questions on this process should be directed to the Erie County Department of Environment and Planning. At this time, only landowners within the affected municipalities may apply to have land added or removed from the Agricultural District.

CONTACT:

Sarah Gatti, Principal Planner

Erie County Environment & Planning 95 Franklin Street, 10th Floor Buffalo, NY 14202

LEGAL NOTICE Bid

COUNTY OF ERIE ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Buffalo & Erie County Central Library

Electrical Switchgear Replacement PROJECT NO. 2020-812-04

Separate sealed bids for 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 June 14, 2023, at which time they will be opened and read aloud. MBE/ WBE, Apprenticeship program, Local and Disadvantaged Workforce, and NYS Vendor Responsibility Form CCA-2 A/B/C requirements may apply to this project. Additional information must be found at: www.erie.gov/ dpw

LEGAL NOTICE Bid

NFTA PROCUREMENT INVITATION TO BID 230033 – HEALTH BENEFITS

CONSULTING SERVICES

Download documents at https:// www.nfta.com/departments/procurement

LLC'S

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITYCOMPANY

Soul Natured, LLC filed Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State New York (SSNY) on 3/30/2023. Office is in Erie County. SSNY is the designated agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail any copy of process to 48 Christian Dr, Buffalo, NY 14225. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

April 20,27,May 4, 11, 18,25

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITYCOMPANY

Designs at Noon by Shelanise LLC filed Articles of Organization with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 2/21/23. Office location: Erie County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 331 Jersey St Apt 9, Buffalo, NY 14201. Purpose: any lawful act or activity.

April 20,27,May 4, 11, 18,25

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that a license, number pending, has been applied for by the undersigned to sell beer, cider and wine at retail in a bookstore cafe under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 431-433 Ellicott Street, Buffalo NY for on premises consumption.

Aaron Bartley FITZ Books and Waffles, Inc.

May 18, 25

I, SCOTT A. BYLEWSKI, ESQ., being duly sworn, depose and say: I am the Director of Real Property Tax Service for the County of Erie. I have read this Petition and Notice, which I have signed, and I am familiar with its contents. The contents of this Petition and Notice are true to the best of my knowledge, based upon the records and tax roll of the County of Erie, in the hands of the Department of Real Property Tax Services. I do not know of any errors or omissions in this Petition.

SCOTT A. BYLEWSKI, ESQ. Director of Real Property Tax Services

Sealed bids for the boiler replacement at the Elma Town Hall, 1600 Bowen Road, Elma, NY 14059 will be received by the Town Clerk at her office in the Town Hall, 1600 Bowen Road, Elma, NY on or before 2:00 PM, local time, Thursday, June 8, 2023. The bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the Town Clerk’s Office, Elma Town Hall, 1600 Bowen Road, Elma, NY on June 8, 2023 at 2:00PM.

Specifications may be obtained or examined at the office of the Building Inspector, 1600 Bowen Road, Elma, NY during regular office hours, 8:00am to 4:00pm, Monday through Friday.

Phone: (716) 858-6014

Email: agriculture@erie.gov

LEGAL NOTICE Bid

NFTA PROCUREMENT INVITATION TO BID 230035 – BUS AND RAIL ADVERTISING

Download documents at https:// www.nfta.com/departments/pro-

curement

are you registered to VOTE?

EMPLOYMENT

Jury Specialist (Full-Time) United States District Court

Rochester, New York

The United States District Court for the Western District of New York is seeking Jury Specialist. Jury Specialists ensure that jury selection and management are smooth and efficient processes, which has an important impact on public perception about jury service. To apply, please visit: www.nywd.uscourts.gov/employment-opportunities

MINISTER OF MUSIC NEEDED

Minister of Music needed for rehearsals and 11:00 Sunday service at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Niagara Falls. Please call 716.282.3655.

Van Driver

Transport persons w/disabilities to & from Various points in a wheelchair lift equipped Van or regular vehicle. Must have clean Driving record within past 2 years. Cover letter & resume required to WNYIL, Inc. 3108 Main St Buffalo NY 14214 employment@wnyil.org EEOC

HCBS/CORE Peer Support Specialist

Assist individuals w/behavioral health issues, Eliminate functional deficits & barriers to improve Integration in their family, community or culture. HS diploma & 4 yrs exp required. Resume and cover letter to WNYIL, Inc, 3108 Main St Buffalo, NY 14214 employment@wnyil.org EEOC

Facilitated Enroller Educate, engage and enroll individuals over 65, To address their needs for health insurance by Following LCDSS requirements. HS diploma & 5 yrs exp req. Resume and cover letter to WNYIL, INC 3108 Main St Buffalo NY 14214 employment@wnyil.org EEOC

Peer Support Specialist: Renewal Center Service guests of the living space in overcoming Immediate and emotional crisis. HS diploma & 4 yrs exp req.Cover letter & resume to WNYIL, Inc. 3108 Main St Buffalo NY 14214 employment@wnyil.org EEOC

Olmstead Housing Specialist Help individuals seeking eligibility for Housing subsidy to transition from Institutional setting to the community. Asso deg and min 2 yrs exp req. Resume and cover letter to WNYIL, Inc 3108 Main St. Buffalo, NY, 14214 employment@wnyil.org EEOC

JOBS

Buffalo Employment and Training Center BETC 716-856-5627

www.workforcebuffalo.org

Yemen Cafe and Bakery

1505 Broadway St

Buffalo NY 14212

Yemen Cafe looking for a Yemeni chef, and assistant chef. Someone to help the cafe with everything, also a baker who knows how to make a tanoor bread. Please call Kaled Hassan at 716-994-7035.

MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR ERIENET LOCAL DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the ErieNET Local Development Corporation will hold the following meeting on Wednesday, May 31, 2023: Special Board of Directors Meeting – 2:00 p.m.

The meeting will be in the Conference Room of the Edward A. Rath County Office Building, 95 Franklin Street, 10th Floor Conference Room, Buffalo, New York 14202. You may also join the meeting via Webex or livestream using the following links: WebEx Link: https://erie.webex.com/erie/j.php?MTID=m9 866189a714a81f4ae98daf3cf1 0bd78

Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/@erienetldc/streams

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Courtney Italia at: ErieNetLDC@ erie.gov.

NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS

MA RUTH SPEAKS THE TRUTH! SURE HITS!

168-985-678-198-256-890054-698-679-943-001-202147-001-865-732-855-648514-996-202

Aquarius -496-235-165-579

Pisces - 056-362-237-694

Cancer - 482-372-895-718

Aries - 289-946-034-594

Taurus -258-231-026-695

Gemini-495-257-694-508

Leo-345-213-157-201

Virgo 385-291-431-170

Libra -247-723-179-501

875-579-103-076-423-568-909-096-534-546-789-358219-765-187-890-919-953-542-438-910-680-194-234567-891-908-026-436-580-178-356-217-678-910-065843-468-451-742-457-689-310-978-543-467-470-246897-148-326-168-985-678-198-256-890-054-679-943001-865-732-855-678-909-096-567-897-456-789-234545-457-689-856-789-035-076-546-789-678-903-456810-174-567-190-954-345-469-754-526-876-069-483349-189-467-162-321-435-678-023-132- 455-791-017MAY

Scorpio - 453-253-571-597

Sagittarius389-701-234-924

Capricorn:893-275-342-506

542-893-659

757-783-492

BEST TRIPLE 888

980-422-809-981989-970-990-080-800515-996-390-196-102581-752-319-408-378352-126-189-444-886514- 332-522-112-432421-423-154-039-524119-616-719-593-655-97-127-111-019-200120-339-303-889-900 007-013-590-698-888

Gyon Harris

U.S. Air Force Retired

Master Sargeant Distinguishing himself performing the duties of the U.S. Flying air craft maintainer journeyman NCOIC, Readiness and training. Master Resiliency Trainer and section chief Cyber Operations. Began his career in the air force flying in 117 missions in aircraft maintenance in his first 4 years of service.Impressive career in cyber sercurity . Currently working for the Cyber Security initiative of the President, implementing Zero Trust Framework.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FRI. MAY 26

Plant Sale 8:30a.m.- 3:p.m.

First Presbyterian Church, One Symphony Circle.

Primary Hall Charter School’s Chiavetta’s Bar-BQue Chicken Sale, 3-7 p.m., 2408 Main St. (716)5974373.Dinners $13pre-sale or $15 at the door,

SAT. MAY 27

Plant Sale 8:30a.m.- 2:p.m.

First Presbyterian Church, One Symphony Circle.

EASTSIDE BIKE CLUB SOLIDARITY RIDE IN HONOR OF VICTIMS OF TOPS MASSACRE GATHER @ 9:30 A.M.

MLK PARK. RIDE @ 10 AM ALL BIKERS & BIKE CLUBS INVITED.

Dad’s & Kicks, Calling all dads & father figures to join the Buffalo Fatherhood Initiative at the Northland Workforce Training Center 683 Northland Ave,10 a.m. – 1 p.m. workshop and show off your sneaker game with your child aged 5 and under.

WED. MAY 31

Celebrate the opening of the Michigan Street African American headquarters by joining us for a ribbon cutting at 10 AM.

THURS. JUNE 1

CAO DART PROGRAM EXPANSION OPEN HOUSE 2 –5 pm at 1245 Main Street. For info visit www.caowny.org or call 716.881.5150.”

SAT. JUNE 3

Most Valuable Parents (MVP) 1st Annual Awards Banquet 7 – 10 p.m. Grapevine Banquets 353 Dick Rd., tickets $50 per person. For tickets or info call Carlanda at 716800-1348.

A cutting word is worse than a bowstring, a cut may heal, but the cut of the tongue does not. -African Proverb

SAT. JUNE 3

Free Hot Meals Giveaway

286 East Ferry St. sponsored by Agents for Advocacy, Buffalo Community Fridge, Tops.

SUN. JUNE 4

Community wide Spelling Bee Competition, 3:30-6:30 p, Canisius College Montante Cutural Hall, 2001 Main St. Tickets $30 hosed by the World of Girls and Boys Leadership Inc. (716)544-6160

SAT. JUNE 10

“Men You Really Matter Gathering,” Buffalo EOC, 555 Ellicott St. 12:30 p.m. For info (716)645-1910 or email Mr. glover at olivergl@buffalo.edu

MON. JUNE 12

NYS Commission on African American History Public Meeting, 5-6:30 p.m., Public Library 1 Lafayette Square.. To register email: RSVPNYSCAAH@dos.ny.gov

UES. JUNE 13

Public meeting to seek the community’s input on a planned memorial monument to the victims of the May 14th massacre Makowski School, 4:30-7:30 p.m. 1095 Jefferson@ Best. Community is urged to attend.

SLOW ROLL WITH CHALLENGER NEWS JUNE 5

Slow Roll's sixth of 27 straight free and inclusive Monday night community bike rides brings us to the intersection of Jefferson and East Utica, anchored by Challenger Community News, Merriweather Library, Golden Cup Roastery & Cafe and more - places where one can find answers to the Swahili saying, "Habari gani?", meaning, "What's the news?" This ride spotlights some of the sources for Challenger Community News, which is celebrating 60 years of "serving communities of Buffalo, Rochester, Niagara Falls, and surrounding WNY Areas with news, events, opinions and views from the African American perspective." Join us for a 10mile roundtrip ride with two stops to learn from some frequent contributors to Challenger News . Meet at 6pm 1337 Jefferson Avenue Meet 6pm pull off 6:30pm, rain or shine ! Register at slowrollbuffalo.org

NO CHALLENGER NEXT WEEK! SEE YOU JUNE 8!