CHALLENGER
SERVING BUFFALO, ROCHESTER, NIAGARA FALLS AND SURROUNDING AREAS
DECEMBER 2, 2015 • FREE
Good News
Black Chamber Focusing Assistance on the Long Neglected Jefferson Avenue Corridor PG. 12 LOCAL
WNY Bills:
The Community’s Pride! PG. 3
Chauncey Northington “Mr. R&B”: Silenced But Not Forgotten INSIDE ROCHESTER
“It is what it is” Just Won’t Do Anymore… PG. 2
PG. 8
NATIONAL
Update Chicago:
The Laquan McDonald Case is Not Going Away PG. 4
Holiday Celebrations and Christmas Tree Lightings! PG.15
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INSIDE ROCHESTER COMMENTARY
Challenger Community News • December 2, 2015
GARTH FAGAN DANCE AT 45
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Victor Saunders, Director of VTS Specialists: Youth Intervention Strategies, along with 20 scholars at the Early College International High School embarked on a project to combat the negative stereotypes and perceptions of Young Black Males. They have completed a video production expressing the positive mindset of our Young Black Males and their desire to further their education and achieve at a high level. The YBMAD group ( which stands for Young Black Males Achieving Daily) has started the work to eliminate negative stereotypes and become role models within their school, community and society.
“It Is What It Is”
Just Won’t Do Anymore By Victor Saunders
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Devalue: (verb) reduce or underestimate the value of ue to the recent tragedies that we as a community, locally and nationally, have suffered, a large number of citizens have voiced opinions regarding the rage that some feel is inherent in young African-American males. In Rochester, our tragedies galvanized a city to speak out against the wrong of killing a young officer in the line of duty. As a citizen I found the action to be an attack on the city- it was my neighborhood he was patrolling. But the second feeling was familiarity- connection to the young man who had broken the law, but did not warrant the final consequence that was meted out. These were tragic events that could have been avoided. For many years the term “feeling devalVictor ued” has been attached to young AfricanAmerican males dealing with instances SAUNDERS of aggression. I have had thousands of interactions with young African-American males on the street, in schools and in my home. Some of today’s young African-American males have bee forced by geographic location, family dysfunction and disproportionate incarceration, to feel that the chips are already stacked against them. The feeling of how society views them is something that has been historically discussed in African-American households and barbershops. These feelings have led to the complacent mindset that “it is what it is.” The majority feel, that as they make decisions about what they will or won’t do, it won’t affect how they are perceived by those outside of their social circle. To feel devalued by others is part of the human condition as experienced by a large number of African American males. Our young Black males are intelligent and resilient; they have learned to do more with less. They see programs that were meant to serve them being cut. The grants that might have been made available for them to receive education and employment have dried up. In 2013, the Sentencing Project report on Racial Disparities in the United States Criminal Justice System, submitted to the United Nations, noted one of every three Black American males born today can expect to go to prison in his lifetime. Knowing that all these facts exist, “it is what it is” just won’t do anymore. Victor T. Saunders is a Youth Intervention Strategist, Certified Gang Specialist, and Motivational Speaker in the Rochester, New York area. He is currently Director of VTS Specialists:Youth Intervention Strategies.
wo local premieres, one by Disney’s “The Lion King,” Tony & Olivier Award-winning choreographer Garth Fagan and the other by Fagan’s muse, rehearsal director and “Bessie Award” winner Norwood Pennewell, are among the highlights of Garth Fagan Dance’s 45th anniversary celebration that takes place at The Nazareth College Arts Center, December 2-6. Opening Night, Dec. 2nd, is Patron’s Night and will feature a one-time performance by former Fagan company members honoring the Company’s 45th Anniversary, followed by a VIP post-performance reception with the purchase of a Patron Night ticket. Fagan’s own incandescent spirit shines through his choreographic tribute to his friend, choreographer/actor/director/ dancer/costume designer/painter Geoffrey Holder, who died this past year at 84. Originally titled “Dance for/With Geoffrey,” the dance has undergone a series of major revisions since its premiere at Lincoln Center Out of Doors in August. The music by Robert Greenidge and spoken text by Leo Holder, however, remains the same. The new title, “Geoffrey Holder Life Fete... Bacchanal” recognizes the partying life spirit of the gregarious artist, with “Bacchanal” referring to the Trinidadian description of a great party. “How was it?” “Bacchanal.” And such was Holder’s life, according to Fagan, whose dance celebrates that and Holder’s 59 year marriage to Carmen de Lavallade. The piece premiered to rave reviews in New York this week, with The New York Times calling it “a festive tribute, sorrow-free.” A new dance, “So You See,” Norwood Pennewell’s fifth for the Fagan company, is described as a “loose narrative” by the choreographer, who has danced with Fagan for 36 years. Pennewell’s dance explores and celebrates a woman’s encounters, reflections and conclusions about a love affair gone wrong. The season is studded with some of Fagan’s most beloved works that speak to the eclectic range of his musical and movement imagination. Tickets are available at garthfagandance.org or via phone at (585)454-3260. The Nazareth College Arts Center also offers tickets at artscenter.naz.edu or (585)389-2170. General ticket prices range from $40-$55; student tickets are $15 and Seniors receive a 10% discount. Patron Night VIP tickets are only available through Garth Fagan Dance for $150 and include preferred seating and a post-performance reception.
AroundTown *Frances Dances Presents “It’s Just Dance-Tastic,” A Community Dance Concert on Saturday, Dec. 12 at the School for the Arts Ensemble Theatre, 45 Prince St. @ University from 2 to 7 p.m. Performers include African Caribbean Dance Ensemble, essence of Rhythm, Rose Bellydance, Bizy Bodyz, Ballet Afrikana, Inspiration Dancers and more For more in formation call 249-0354 or email franceshare@yahoo.com or Memorial Holiday Bazaar Memorial AME Zion Church will host its annual Holiday Bazaar on Sunday, Dec. 6 from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Church Fellowship Hall, 549 Clarissa Street. Rev. Dr. Kenneth James is Pastor. Purchase your gifts from African American merchants!
Mayor Warren to Light Liberty Pole for the Holidays
Mayor Lovely A. Warren, Santa Claus and friends will light the Liberty Pole for the holidays Saturday, Dec. 5 @ 4:30 p.m. Liberty Pole Plaza, East Main and Franklin Streets Special guests Santa, Mrs. Claus and Rudolph will be available for photos. After the Liberty Pole is lit, the Mayor, Santa and Prime Time Brass will lead a holiday parade through the East End to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park Ice Rink where they’ll be greeted with fireworks. Other attractions at the park include ice skating, free horse-drawn wagon rides, craft activities in the lodge and a 30-foot, fully-decorated Christmas tree.
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Challenger Community News • December 2, 2015
AREA BRIEFS
GiGi’s Fire Accidental From all indications, the fire that ravaged Gigi’s Restaurant on Nov. 21 appears to have been accidental according to Common Council President Darius Pridgen, who has been checking closely with city officials and Gigi’s owner about the investigation into the blaze. He told the Buffalo News that “it appeared to have started in the kitchen and that there were no signs of forced entry or intruders or any indication that the fire was a criminal act.” So far Rev. Pridgen, who also pastors True Bethel Baptist Church, reported that between the Go-fundMe page he set up after the fire to seek donations, and True Bethel’s Bread of Heaven free food truck that collected funds in front of the restaurant, about $13,000 has been raised. He said he is not sure that the restaurant’s insurance coverage will cover the whole loss. Gigi’s he said, is more of an institution than a restaurant.
“Millard Fillmore, the Fugitive Slave Law of 1850, and Slave Hunting in New York” The Association for a Buffalo Presidential Center is hosting a lecture by the noted constitutional and political historian Paul Finkelman on the subject, “Millard Fillmore, the Fugitive Slave Law of 1850, and Slave Hunting in New York.” The lecture will take place on Thursday, December 3 at the 7 p.m. at the auditorium of the Buffalo History Museum, One Museum Court, near the corner of Elmwood and Nottingham Terrace. A review Millard Fillmore’s political career, the passage of the Fugitive Slave Law, and President Fillmore’s aggressive enforcement of the law in northern states will be highlighted. A discussion will follow the lecture.
Mayor Brown and WNY Bills players and coaches at recent press conference.
WNY BILLS: THE COMMUNITY’S PRIDE! Mayor Brown Kicks Off Fundraiser For Pop Warner Trip To Championship Games Mayor Byron Brown and the WNY Bills of the Pop Warner Football League Pee Wee Division and Pop Warner Football League Junior Pee Wee Division are on a mission to bring home championship titles and they need the community’s help to do it. After a successful season in Western New York, both teams are became eligible to play in the Mid-American Regional Championship Games in Michigan City, Indiana. “These young people work hard during the season, both in their athletic work and their academic work, and we want to help them in any way possible,” said Mayor Brown at a City Hall news conference, standing with athletes and their coaches. “I call on the generosity of our community to support these students – a warm example of our city coming together again.” Mayor Brown kicked off the community-wide fundraising effort by making a $500 donation, leveraging an additional $500 donation from Buffalo Attorney Adam Perry of Hodgson Russ, a $500 donation from Buffalo Attorney Asa Mosey and a $500 donation from Assistant District Attorney Michael Flaherty for a total donation of $2,000. This donation completed the teams’ fundraising goal to get the players and coaches to the regional championship games . If successful in Indiana, the teams will need to raise an additional $26,000 to cover travel and lodging costs associated with the Pop Warner Super Bowl in Orlando, Florida. Last year, Mayor Brown kicked off a similar community-wide fundraising effort by making a $500 donation which leveraged the needed funds to send the Pop Warner Football League Junior Pee Wee Division to the Pop Warner Super Bowl in Orlando. Donations can be mailed/dropped off at the BFNC Moot Center, located at 292 High Street - Buffalo, NY 14204 or online at www. BFNC.org.
George and Betty Jean Grant Recipients of the Eye On History Award Store owners George and Betty Jean Grant will receive the Eye On History Award on Saturday, December 5 at the Frank E. Merriweather Library located at 1324 Jefferson Avenue. The program will be held from 3 - 5:00 p.m. Mr. and Mrs. Grant own one of the few African American delicatessens left in our community. Their store, Grant’s Variety Shoppe, is located at 1055 East Ferry Street near Moselle. The store has been in our community for over 35 years. This award will recognize their longevity in business and their support to those in need. Betty Jean Grant currently serves as the Erie County Legislator in the 2nd District. The Eye On History Award was created by Columnist Eva M. Doyle. It is presented every other month to individuals who make history in a variety of fields. This will be the 12th presentation of the award. The awards program is free and open to the public. For more information call 847-6010.
Screening Documentary: "The Murder of Fred Hampton" Legislature Agrees to Hold Informational Session Related December 4th marks the 46th anniversary of the brutal killing of Fred Hampton, legendary, charismatic co-founder of the Black Panther Party. Brother/chairman Fred was assassinated, gunned down by agents of the state as he lay in bed sleeping on Dec. 4, 1969. He was just 21 years old. Black Panther leader Mark Clark was also killed in the raid. On Saturday, December 5th at 12:30 pm, come out to the Merriweather Library for a screening of the documentary "The Murder of Fred Hampton" and panel discussion to follow. The screening is hosted by Buffalo Anti Racism Coalition , Buffalo New York Free Jalil Muntaqim and Buffalo Save The Kids. For more information go to https://www.facebook.com/events/1657512404516592/
to the Resettlement of Refugees in Erie County
On Thursday, November 19, the Erie County Legislature approved a resolution which addresses the issue of the resettlement of refugees within Erie County. The resolution was approved with bi-partisan support and requires that the Legislature hold an informational session regarding the county’s role the resettlement process and requests the presence of certain county officials at the hearing. Legislator Barbara Miller-Williams noted that the original resolution submitted did not adequately reflect an understanding of the federal resettlement process and the County’s limited role in the process. If you need any additional information about the resettlement process informational meeting, please feel free to Legislator Williams District Office at 716-842-0490.
Martin R. Delany
Martin R. Delany, Father of Black Nationalism Journalist, abolitionist, physician and editor, Martin Robison Delany ( May 6, 1812Jan. 24, 1885) was born free in Charles Town, Virginia. At 19, Delany walked 160 miles from Pittsburgh to Bethel Church School for Blacks and Jefferson College to learn Latin, Greek, and the Classics. He also studied medicine. As a young adult, Delany was active in multiple movements ranging from the abolition of slavery, to the temperance movement and the back to Africa movement. In 1833, Delany opened up his own medical practice specializing in leeches and cupping. A decade later, he also started his own newspaper called, The Mystery. The paper focused on topics related to the freedom of Black people and ideas about a “Black Israel” in Africa. Delany and Douglass Before there was Booker T. Washington and W.E.B Dubois debating on the subject of Black progress, there were Delany and Frederick Douglass. The two men were partners and contemporaries working on Douglass’ The North Star in Rochester from 1847-1852. Douglass was so impressed by Delany’s writing in The Mystery, that he was hired as a writer. The two bumped heads over how Black people should prosper in the country. Delany was a firm believer in emigration to Continued Page 4
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LOCAL + NATIONAL + WORLD
Challenger Community News • December 2, 2015
news briefs City Elects a MuslimMajority City Council
Hamtramck, a city of 22,000 surrounded by, but politically separated from Detroit, has elected a Muslim-majority city council, believed to be the first in the nation.
Kentucky Governor Restores Voting Rights to 140,000 Nonviolent Felons Kentucky Gov. Steven L. Beshear last week issued an executive order that immediately grants the right to vote to about 140,000 nonviolent felons who have completed their sentences. Kentucky had been one of just three states imposing a lifetime voting ban on felons unless they received a special exemption from the governor. Florida and Iowa still carry the lifetime ban.
$750 Pill?
Turing Pharmaceuticals, which sparked a fury two months ago by sharply increasing the price of a 62-year-old drug for infection called Daraprim, said recently that it would not reduce the $750 per pill list price of the drug after all. Rather it said it would offer discounts of up to 50 percent to hospitals and would take other measurers to help patients afford the medicine. Wow! Only $375!
CNN Votes Jamaicans Third “Coolest People In The World”
There’s more to Jamaicans than reggae, including Rastafarian (the most kick-back religion ever invented), an accent that’s the envy of the English-speaking world and the planet’s most distinctive and recognizable hairstyle. Note to backpackers: dreadlocks are only cool on actual Jamaicans.Icon of cool: Jimmy Cliff. The “Harder They Come” singer is still bringing it at 62. Botswana: So cool residents even pretended to be happy about seeing Bush...
So chilled it’s a wonder the Kalahari desert doesn’t frost over, Botswana was rated #9.Even the animals are relaxed in Botswana, home to Africa’s largest elephant population.
UPDATE CHICAGO: THE LAQUAN MCDONALD CASE IS NOT GOING AWAY
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he Laquan McDonald case is not going away, but rather the movement for justice for the Black teen, executed gangland style by a White Chicago police officer, is growing. And now, Laquan’s murder, captured by dashcam footage that was released last week, showing 17-year-old Black teen LaQuan McDonald being shot down like a dog 16 times, has disrupted the administration of Mayor Rahm Emanuel and brought down at lease one prominent city official so far. Mayor Fires Head of Chicago Police The head of the Chicago
Police Department, Garry F. McCarthy, was fired Tuesday amid widespread criticism over how authorities responded to the fatal shooting of the black teenager by a White police officer last year. Even as the embattled Emanuel dismissed his police superintendent and made other vows of increased police accountability, announcing a task force to review police oversight, another Illinois official suggested that federal intervention was needed for the Chicago police. Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan wrote a letter Tuesday asking the Justice Department to investigate possible civil rights violations
by the Chicago Police Department. Cop Charged in Murder of LaQuan Makes Bail In a related development Chicago police Officer Jason
Van Dyke , the man charged with murder in the shooting death of Laquan McDonald, dressed in a dark hoodie pulled low over his face, walked out of Cook County Jail surrounded by supporters after his father posted a $150,000 cashier’s bond.Hours earlier, a Cook County judge set bail at $1.5 million for Van Dyke. Missing Video A story behind the story is the missing surveillance video from the Burger King restaurant, located 50 yards away from the scene of the fatal shooting. This, as federal authorities learn more about the circumstances surrounding an apparent cover-up and an unfolding case of official corruption and criminal wrongdoing. deleting the surveillance video in question. The FBI now has possession of that video, according to the manager. When she announced the first degree murder charges against officer Jason Van Dyke, State’s Attorney Anita
Alvarez insisted there was no evidence the video had been deleted, a claim which Mayor Emanuel reinforced. Protesters Shut Down Black Friday On Black Friday about 2,000 protesters took to Chicago’s glitzy Magnificent Mile shopping district to protest theshooting death of 17year- Laquan McDonald and the city’s slow response to the incident. The protest was led by the Rev. Jesse Jackson. On Saturday, following the shutdown of Black Friday by protesters on Michigan Avenue, a group of activists circled Chicago City Hall carrying a black casket in memory of Laquan McDonald and Tyshawn Lee, as the Chicago Sun-Times reported. The purpose of the demonstration was to draw attention to the mishandling of the case by Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Chicago Police Supt. Garry McCarthy and Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez.
BLACK HISTORY:DELANEY cotinued Africa while Douglass believed that Black people should stay in the U.S. because Blacks had a equal stake as Whites.” Harvard Medical School In 1850, Delany was still interested in medicine, so he entered Harvard Medical School. Delany was one of three Black med students who broke down racial barriers but he was only there for one term after enduring extreme racial tension. Search for the Black Israel After his experience at Harvard, Delany was steadfast in his belief that Black people should return to Africa. In the mid-1850s, he went to Nigeria to buy land for possible settlement. He also looked into land options in Central America and Canada. During this time he wrote about his travels in the book, Blake or the Huts of America in 1859. Black Regiments By 1863, the Emancipation Proclamation of 1862 made Delany soften his stance on emigration. When the idea of Black soldiers joining the fight as Union soldiers arose, Douglass and Delany both agreed and advocated for the chance to fight for freedom. In a meeting with President Abraham Lincoln, Delany wanted Black soldiers to have the opportunity to become leaders within the military. Lincoln took Delany’s advice and made him the highest ranking Black officer in the military at that time. As major in the 104th Regiment, he made history once more.
DO YOU REMEMBER…
Humboldt Parkway before the construction of the Kensington Expressway?
ROCCBuffalo.org (716) 883-0529
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Challenger Community News • December 2, 2015
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FAITH & FAMILY
Reliving The Biblical Second Baptist Third Annual Holiday Bazaar Christian Story The Adult Choir of Calvary C.M.E. Church at 1007 Ellicott Street will presents Reliving The Biblical Christian Story featuring soloists, instrumentals, and more with narration on Friday December 11 at 6 p.m. Free will offering. Rev. Larry E. Moore is Pastor.
Just in time for the Holiday Season, the Second Baptist Church Women’s Ministry presents their 3rd annual Holiday Bazaar on Saturday December 5th from noon to 4 p.m., at the AJ Phillips Fellowship Hall, 18 Church Street in Lackawanna. For more info call 716 578-1043.
Challenger Community News • December 2, 2015
ST. John Baptist Church Celebrates 88th Anniversary
he ST. John Baptist Church and affiliate corporations are celebrating 88 years of service to God, Humanity and Service to the community. St. John Baptist Church, under the Pastorate of Minister Michael Chapman, invites the entire WNY community to Celebrate over eight decades of commitment to the ministry and service. The celebration will take place on Saturday December 5 with a Gala Dinner and Dance at the Adams Mark Hotel and Event Center featuring live entertainment beginning at 6 pm. The weekend will culminate in a Celebratory Worship Service on Sunday December 6 at 10 am at the St. John Baptist Church main sanctuary located at 184 Goodell St. with the dynamic Reverend Jonathan Staples, Pastor of the First Shiloh Baptist Church delivering the keynote Proclamation of the Word. In addition, the renowned St. John Celebration Choir will deliver a Ministry of Praise. Come out and celebrate with us! In praise and Worship. For tickets to the gala and additional information call 852-4504. To God Be The Glory!
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FAITH & FAMILY
Challenger Community News • December 2, 2015
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Winter Snow Ball! The community is invited to join us in celebrating the holiday season during a Winter Snow Ball for ages 3 – 13 on December 18 from 6-8 p.m. at Fellowship World, 878 Humboldt Parkway. There will be winter arts and crafts, pictures, balloon art, music, dance contests and treats!
Saturday, December 5, 2015 at 6:00 pm Adams Mark Hotel Tickets Available At: & Event Center St. John Baptist Church 120 Church Street 184 Goodell Street Buffalo, New York 14202 Buffalo, New York 14204 Ticket Price: $50 Call: 852-4504
Christmas Party Luncheon INTRODUCING…Samuel A. Herbert, community activist and talk show host, introduces the Buffalo community to the newly elected member of the Niagara Falls City Council, Ezra Scott Jr. Mr. Scott was Mr. Herbert’s guest on his show a few weeks ago, “The Truth and NothingBut The Truth So Help Us God,” which airs on WUFO 1080 Mix AM radio on Tuesdays. Herbert pointed out that Scott won “the first time out of the gate” with the most votes of everyone running for the seat. “I like him,” said Herbert. “He believes a connected city is a protected city. I told him Niagara Falls New York and Buffalo New York are now connected and protected!” Councilmember Scott will appear on Herbert’s show again in the near future after he’s sworn in. “The Truth” has been on the air since January of this year.
Evangelistic Temple Community Church will host a Christmas Party Luncheon on Sunday, Dec. 13 at 1:30 p.m. at Classics Five Banquet and Conference Center, 2425 Niagara Falls Blvd. Adults are $15, children 12 and under $10. For tickets or additional information call the church office at 882-1432 All are welcome
December 6, 2015, 10:00 am Guest Speaker: Pastor Jonathan R. Staples, First Shiloh Baptist Church And St. John’s Celebration Choir
We Wish Our Readers A Safe and Blessed Holiday! Season
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ENTERTAINMENT
Chauncey in concert.
Chauncey Northington: “Mr. R & B” Silenced But Not Forgotten... By Kunjané Lyons-Latimer Social Media Correspondent (ED. NOTE: Chauncey Northington, 41, was killed in a tragic car crash the day before Thanksgiving after suffering a medical condition at the wheel of his vehicle on his way to work. His vehicle hit a tree before crashing into a house on Davidson Avenue. Fortunately no one in the house was injured, but the house is no longer habitable. Known as “Mr. R & B,” the gifted vocalist has literally traveled the world. His loving and amazing family are relying on their unshakable faith to keep them strong. Chauncey Northington. Mr. R&B. Gone too soon. Funeral services will be held today (Wednesday, December 2) at Prince of Peace COGIC, 669 Kensington Avenue. Viewing is at 10am. The Celebration of Life begins at noon. His dear friend, Social Media Correspondent Kunjane’ LyonsLatimer penned the following article in his honor.)
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hauncey R. Northington was born June 22, 1974. He grew up on Johnson St. with his mother Diane, father Alvin and baby sister Shavone. He attended #39 grammar school, then went on to Bennett High School. Chauncey was sweet, smart, talented and kind to everyone he met. He was every girl’s first model of a gentlemen;
always giving respectful and thoughtful compliments to the young ladies. He was the model of a perfect brother and friend: caring, understanding, compassionate, and appropriately protective. Growing up in the church under the direction of his grandfather, Pearlie Northington (The Fantastic Northington Singers) and his father Alvin (affectionately known as Abby), he was an amazing singer, blessed with golden pipes and the gift of song. Everyone knew he’d make something of himself in music. Chauncey was offered his first record contract in New York City in 1995 as a part of the R&B group “True Indeed” with members Teddy Turpin, Terrell Carter, Davon Dinkins, LaMont J., & Grammy Award winning producer Stevie J. He was dubbed “Baby Boy” back then. True Indeed opened up for Bobby Brown’s Humpin’ Around Tour, worked with Cherelle, and was given the chance to write for Dave Hollister, Tevin Campbell, Deborah Cox, Simply Red, and sing background vocals for these artists as well. Chauncey went overseas touring, as a result of working with local producer “Juice” in early 2001, singing in Oman every night for about three months from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.! He has graced the stages of Club Etcetera, The Metro-
politan, Ujima, The Groove Lounge, The Tralf and countless others in Buffalo, NY, New York City and Los Angeles. Artistic, family oriented, God-fearing and a perfectionist are just some of the words used to describe “Mr. R&B” by his family and close friends. Gone but never forgotten, we send love and pray for his family as we pray his spirit over...God bless always and forever. Chauncey leaves to cherish his memory, his loving father and mother, Minister Alvin G. and Dianna L. Northington; loving sister Shavone Northington Watkins; and grandmother Verlena Northington. He is also survived by a host of uncles, aunts, relatives and friends.
The Blackness Project Kickstarter
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he Blackness Project is a featured length documentary film about culture and race from the perspectives of African American and other minorities.A Kickstarter fundraising event o will be held on December 5 at the Daemen College Theater in the Tri-Main Center in Buffalo. For more info:Theblacknessproject.org
Challenger Community News • December 2, 2015
“STATEMENT PIECES”: Jinah Parker and Dancers presented “Statement Pieces” in New York City over the Thanksgiving weekend. This is Jinah’s first time presenting an evening length production of her choreography. In addition to Jinah, the three other dancers included Shuantee Henry, Solomon Dumas, and Jashiro Dean. “Statement Pieces” was inspired by Stevie Wonder’s lyric in “Love’s In Need of Love Today…” The suite is composed of three pieces, which explore universal themes including privilege, self-hate, anxiety, and depression. “Ultimately, the prism of dance creates a performed foundation of self-love and hope. In a confused world filled with doubt, self-hate, consistently growing anxiety and depression, we must look towards love as the solution,” stated Jinah. The beautiful and talented young dancer is the daughter of Jennifer and Attorney Melvin Parker of Buffalo. Congratulations! SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS
Challenger Community News • December 2, 2015
ON STAGE
ENTERTAINMENT
SENIOR CHRISTMAS BASH! Buffalo’s own Foxie Brown and the Blues Trio will headline the Golden Age Center’s Senior Christmas Bash on Friday, Dec. 11 from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at The Salvation Army, 960 Main Street. Tickets are $10 and include a hot breakfast, lunch. Live entertainment, games, prizes a senior fashion show and visit from Santa with gifts! For tickets or more information contact Lisa Holmes at 8886260 by December 7. *Stompin’ At The Savoy, on stage at the Paul Robeson Theatre at the African Ameriacan Cultural Center, 350 Masten Ave., now thru December 6; curtain time 8 p.m. Friday & Saturday and 4 p.m. Sunday with Audience Talk Back; general admission $25; seniors/students (with ID) $22; 884-2013 or www.aaccbuffalo.org *Kameron Corvet and Angela Johnson with Zoe Viola, Tralf Music Hall, Saturday, December 12th, 7pm Doors | 8pm Show $25 Advance / $30 Day Of Show.
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GENERATIONS
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Challenger Community News • December 2, 2015
Feeling Good This Holiday Is Within Reach
WE KNOW THE MOMENTS…
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The ones that define us and give meaning to our lives. The moments that make us breathe deeply and then take our breath away… the ones when having our health makes everything possible.
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Written By Tyonna Robinson
eaching young minds that while experiencing pain is unavoidable, but is not the end of the world, can be difficult. Many of us have not outgrown the desire to seek the approval of others. As the world around us continues to change, the struggle for acceptance remains the same. A Buffalo native and brand new author to children’s fiction has dignified the hardcover book with an entertaining, yet touching and educative literary composition for kids and adults alike. Stop Calling Me That! My Name Is Araminta, written by Virginia A. Batchelor, a Professor of Education at Medaille College, tells a heart-felt story of a young lady distraught from being called names at school. As the main character acquires courage and self-assurance from learning of a deeply rooted family connection to one of the most historical figures of all time, this book is undeniably a gem for the community of Western New York. Through a series of colorful and lifelike illustrations, Dr. Batchelor’s mission to showcase The Challenger—one of Buffalo’s most prominent publications, coupled with raising awareness of the city’s involvement in the Underground Railroad movement is brilliant! Finally—as you make your shopping lists this holiday season, remember the most important gift one can receive is love. And giving one teachable moment can last a lifetime. Have a healthy day!
Tyonna’s passion is exploring healthy ways to live in Western New York! In 2014, Tyonna successfully created a platform geared toward education and encouragement for those struggling with issues such as overeating, low self-esteem and co-dependence. She believes introspection and self-improvement are essential to accomplishing goals, whether it is in business, relationships or health. Keep the conversation going and connect with Tyonna onAurora Challenger Ad 2015.qxp_Layout 1 or 11/25/15 10:37 AM Page 1 line at Acad www.Lil-LionReads.weebly.com www.NYHealthKicks. com.
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Meet with a Representative:
Call 1-888-FIDELIS to meet with a Representative or visit fideliscare.org/offices to find a community office close to you
1-888-FIDELIS (1-888-343-3547) TTY: 1-800-421-1220
fideliscare.org To learn more about applying for health insurance, including Child Health Plus and Medicaid through NY State of Health: The Official Health Plan Marketplace, visit www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 1-855-355-5777.
Come to the Library to learn about a NEW CHARTER SCHOOL being proposed. We need your feedback. Food and drinks will be provided.
INFORMATIONAL SESSION Saturday, December 5th 11:00am – 2:00pm Merriweather Branch Library 1324 Jefferson Avenue, Buffalo NY
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Challenger Community News • December 2, 2015
The “Demonstrable Improvement” Racket
A
ndrew J. Smitherman (1921 Tulsa Race Riot survivor) was a student of government, especially when the forces of government, e.g. Its laws are used to restrict and/or confound the rights of the people. At the turn of the last century, he fought the Oklahoma government, where “guardianship laws” were passed to “protect” native and black inheritors of oil rich land. Even when these children had nurturing, knowledgeable parents the courts were enabled to appoint a “guardian” to oversee their affairs. Too often these same guardians ultimately ended up stealing the assets of the very wards they pledged to protect. An argument could be made that there is no comparison between the historical unethical legal maneuver to divest minority children of their rightful inheritance (Smitherman called it the Guardianship Racket) and the Receivership law. However, in my estimation, Receivership comes close as the latest in a long line of “rackets” to undermine public education. While there are 25 Buffalo Schools that have been identified as in one or two year receivership, five “persistently struggling” schools are targeted as the first to be required to show “demonstrable improvement” this year or face take-over by an outside receiver. So, what constitutes “demonstrable improvement”? It takes a score card and maybe an attorney to understand the bureaucratic strategies, which define “demonstrable improvement.” Since the law went into effect in July 2015 the State Education Department has issued publications, held a number of workshops, webinars, and conducted phone conferences with impacted Districts to explain this hastily constructed Barbara Seals assessment. SED identifies “demonstrable improvement” as being comNevergold prised of three elements: a) “Performance Indicators b) Years of Identification (as a persistently struggling or struggling school) c) the superintendent (receiver’s) successful use of receivership powers to implement the school’s plan.” The Performance Indicators are comprised of a series of data points or measures, such as scores on the ELA and Math tests (the percentage of students whose scores improve, to be more precise); number of serious incidents that occur at the school, attendance/suspension rates; test scores of specific subgroups in the school population. There are also measures of teacher attendance/ absenteeism or teachers teaching out of their certification area. These are only a few examples, however some of these indicators are grouped under the heading of Level 1 and some are deemed Level 2. Level 1 indicators are those that are selected by the State, which the schools must accept. Level 2 indicators can be selected by the schools, although it does become a bit confusing when the State acknowledges that there are some schools for which they cannot identify a requisite number of Level 1 indicators. In the case of that scenario, the District must identify enough Level 2 indicators to make up for the discrepancy. In any event, the indicators must be ones that the schools have not been successful in attaining. The State has set baseline measures for each of these indicators. If the school has obtained proficiency for any specific indicator, attendance as an example, attendance cannot be chosen as a Level 2 indicator. The final number of indicators to be met is ten; 5 determined by the State and 5 by the Superintendent Receiver and the school’s Community Engagement Team. Each indicator has a weight of 10% leading to the sum total of 100 percentage points. A school will achieve demonstrable progress if they score 67% or higher at the end of year one (2015-2016). Of course, if they don’t achieve the minimum percentage, they have not demonstrated improvement; UNLESS, there are extenuating circumstances which prevented this achievement. The Commissioner will have the power to determine the next steps in this case. Which brings me back to one of the other components the State identified as indicative of “demonstrable improvement”; the “superintendent’s use of receivership powers to implement the school’s plan”. I haven’t seen the criteria that the Commissioner will use to evaluate this “measure”. How will the State determine that the Superintendent used his receivership powers to implement the plan? Are the actions of our Superintendent, e.g. to request that the Commissioner impose changes to the union contract ample and sufficient reasons to judge this criteria? Or is the State looking for something more dramatic or confrontational? Or perhaps, more collegial and collaborative? Since I have not been able to find a definition for this particular “measure” of “demonstrable improvement”, we’ll have to wait and see. I must come back to the analogy of “building the plane, while flying it” as it has never been more apropos. The “persistently struggling” schools have one year - THIS YEAR - to show “demonstrable improvement.” Take special note that this is the same year that the State is defining and refining while implementing the foregoing, untested plan. This convoluted plan sets the stage for outside receivership. I urge the readers to go to http://p1232.nysed.gov/accountability/ de/SchoolReceivership.html and download the PowerPoint presentation that explains “demonstrable improvement” and how the State plans to get there. I can’t fully detail it in this short article. A local news broadcast boasts of “holding people in power accountable.” Major decisions will be made, based on the outcomes of “demonstrable improvement” gains in the schools, but who will evaluate and hold the State Education Department accountable for its actions? As for the analogy to Andrew J. Smitherman’s fight against the Guardianship Racket? There is much to learn from the battles he waged against an unjust system: educate the public, identify the harm suffered by specific people and the population in general; plan and execute the resistance. And finally, Persist.
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Jury Trial Demanded:Mr. Okongwu’s Last Hope For Justice
M
-Part I-
r. Emeka Dominic Okongwu wasn’t born in the United States nor is he as well known in Buffalo as Dr. Willie Underwood, Shellonnee Chinn, or Shanni L. Jones. But despite these differences, they are connected in more ways than one, other than the most obvious, of being Blacks in these United States of America. They are rightfully seeking Justice to correct what they perceive as wrongs committed against them in the State of New York, County of Erie and the City of Buffalo. Mr. Okongwu, like Underwood, Chinn, and Jones has filed his complaint in Federal Court, but his complaint began more than 20 years prior to theirs, and unlike Underwood, Chinn and Jones, Mr.Okongwu’s complaint is not job related. His complaint is more sinister, more inhumane and more barbaric. It involve serving 20 years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit, in addition to the agony suffered by his eight year old twin daughters, Chendo and Nnedi Okongwu, who were denied the comfort and protection of their father during those 20 years of his absence. TED Besides naming the State of New York, Erie County and the City of BufKIRKLAND falo as defendants, Mr. Okongwu has also named more than 90 individual defendants, some by name and others as John Doe, representing these three governmental agencies as well as other agencies involved in his incarceration or the custody of his daughters. In response, Mr.Okongwu on October 15, 2015 filed a $37 million dollar lawsuit against all persons involved. Due to limited space only a few of the 140 individual justifications for the charges are mentioned. The following is the essence of his compla int. **** Civil Action Case No- 1:14-cv-00832. PLAINTIFF’S AMENDED COMPLAINT FOR DECLARATORY AND INJUNCTIVE RELIEF AND DAMAGES FOR FALSE IMPRISONMENT, RACKETEERING, CONSPIRACY BY PUBLIC OFFICIALS TO ENAGAGE IN A PATTERN OF RACKETEERING AND RELATED CLAIMS COMES NOW the plaintiff Emeka Dominic Okongwu, appearing pro se, as and for a complaint against the defendants above named, states, alleges, and avers as follows: PRELIMINARY STATEMENT 1. In 1988 defendants knowingly, intentionally and maliciously launched a conspiracy to deprive plaintiff Emeka Dominic Okongwu, a Nigerian citizen, a single parent, studying in the United States by authority of an F1 Student Visa, of custody of his four year-old twin daughters and place his children into long term state custody through a scheme to incarcerate him under the most pernicious circumstances, and for as long as possible, to perpetrate an invidiously racially discriminatory policy and practice by state actors of removing AfricanAmerican children, without just cause and under false pretenses, into the custody and care of state children welfare authorities for the purposes of promoting a foster care industry within the state and having authority over children for use in human subject research experiments underwritten in federal government agencies and private pharmaceutical companies. All charges arising out of the 1988 arrest was determined to be baseless and unfounded by an Erie County Family Court Judge after a hearing and trial on the evidence. 2. In 1992 plaintiff Emeka Dominic Okongwu was falsely arrested again, along with two other adults(Louis Eze and Joy Wosu)for grotesquely sexually abusing his twin daughters, and convicted solely on the coerced testimony of his then 8 year-old daughters and without any physical evidence whatsoever. Plaintiff Emeka Dominic Okongwu spent 18 years, 11 months and 27 days in prison where he was subjected to hellish conditions, constant physical and psychological abuse, abuse exasperated because of his conviction as a child sex offender, all the while his twin daughters were subjected to a state foster care industry that allowed them to be used in human subject research experiments and totally deprived of family relations, with defendants acting as a corrupt enterprise within the meaning 18 U.S.C. § 1961, et seq.; 18. U.S.C. § 1964, et seq. (civil racketeering). 3. Defendants coerced, coached and scared plaintiff’s two children, who became the key witnesses in the criminal prosecution of their natural father---showing the twins films, pictures and images of Disney World and convincing these children that if they cooperate fully and successfully in retelling the fictitious details of their father brutal sexual assault upon them, then they would be able to go to Disney World with their father. In addition, the defendants showed the twins films, pictures and images of poor, starving children in the bush and jungles of rural Africa with wild animals and telling the children that if they failed to retell properly the fictitious story of their father’s abuse, then they would have to leave America and go live in Africa with their father. Defendants created written scripts for children Chendo Okongwu and Nnedi Okongwu who were repeatedly told by defendants that under no circumstance would their father be punished for anything they said or testified to in court. 4. On February 1, 1994 plaintiff Emeka Dominic Okongwu was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned in New York State Supreme on 68 counts of Rape, Incest, Sexual Continued Page 13
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12
Challenger Community News • December 2, 2015
Black Chamber Focusing Assistance on the Long Neglected Jefferson Avenue Corridor
T
he Black Chamber of Commerce WNY (BCCWNY) has been awarded technical assistance from Empire State Development (ESD) to help them develop a Main Street program in our community in preparation for the next round of the Better Buffalo Fund. The Chamber is focusing this assistance on the Jefferson corridor. If you are a property owner or business owner on Jefferson, or interested in learning about the Buffalo Main Street Initiative please join us as we review the program and application process. A meeting will be held on Monday, December 7 at 6 p.m. at The Apollo Media Center for persons who want to hear more about the program and provide input to the application process. There are several streets throughout Buffalo that are eligible for this grant funding that could benefit you and your business. We are excited that the MLK Business Association is receiving funding for several Fillmore businesses from the first round. After the meeting the Chamber will be seeking expressions of interest from property owners who would like to participate in the Main Street program. If you cannot attend the meeting, but would like to be considered for this program, send the following information to Sydney at sbrown@wnyblackchamber. org or mail to The Black Chamber, 846 East Delavan Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14215: 1.Project contact name 2.Project contact phone number 3.Project contact email address
ATTORNEYS Terrence D. McKelvey Attorney at Law 181 Franklin St. Suite 101 (716) 847-2606
AUTO Ben’s Downtown Tire 50 Sycamore (cor. Elm) (716) 856-1066 or 894-1483
Colston Enterprises 716 E. Ferry (Near Fillmore) (716) 894-3910
CATERING
Adrienne’s Ultimate Catering adriennescateringwny@ gmail.com (716)553-1512 (716)259-7259
CELL PHONES Ansar Cellular Communications & Fragrance Store 1371 Fillmore @ E. Utica (716) 884-2373
ELECTRICIAN
Licensed.Insured (716) 563-6122
Booze.richard@yahoo.com
APTS/HOUSES FOR RENT HOUSES FOR SALE email:
advertising@thechallengernews.com
Deadline 5 p.m. FRIDAY
DISTINGUISHED LEADER
(716) 316-7776
Mark Johnson, Vice President & Community Development Manager at SunTrust Bank and a 2004 graduate of LEAD Hampton Roads, was awarded the Distinguished Leader Award in from the National Association of Leadership Programs. Johnson was one of only 15 people in the country to receive this award in 2015. LEAD Hampton Roads nominated Johnson and presented the award to him during the annual State of the Region Address in October. He resides in Virginia Beach with his wife, Shonder and his two children Imajae’ and Mark II. Mark is a graduate of Canisius College, in Buffalo, and the ExecuStep Program, United Way Worldwide, formerly United Way of America.
TAILORS
DID YOU KNOW...
Empire Electric (716) 634-0330
FLORISTS Maureen’s Flower Market 441 Ellicott St. * 852-4600
HAIR SUPPLY Main Hair & Beauty Supply 3067 Main St. (716) 862-4247
HOME/PROPERTY INSPECTION Majadi Enterprises Inc. majadienterprise@aol.com
Ann Rhod’s Tailoring 3185 Bailey Ave. (716) 838-5633
CONTRACTORS H&M General Contractors
4.Are you the business or property owner? 5.Business Name (if applicable) 6.Project address 7.Short project summary and specific proposed work items 8.Whether or not the building is eligible for the National Historic Register 9.Total project cost 10. Type of 25% match funding commitment (loan, grant, equity).
For More Info: advertising@thechallengernews.com
AfricanAmerican’s Buying Power is projected to be $1.1 Trillion?
art of the holiday shopping season just
Classified
Challenger Community News • December 2, 2015
TED KIRKLAND:JURY TRIAL DEMANDED continued
Sodomy, Endangering the Welfare of a Child and Harassment, where, at all times, defendants knew, or should have known, that the plaintiff was totally innocent of the charged crimes and that the evidence produced by defendants was fabricated, false and maliciously used in the prosecution of the plaintiff. Plaintiff seeks pecuniary and non-pecuniary damages from the defendants, joint and severally, in the amount of $37,000,000 (Thirty-Seven Million Dollars). 5. This is a civil action brought by plaintiff, Emeka Dominic Okongwu, a permanent resident of the United States and citizen of Nigeria, seeking compensatory and punitive damages from defendants, all state actors or pubic officials, for their acts, all in concert and in furtherance of a conspiracy that began in 1988 and ending upon the judicially compelled release from prison of plaintiff Emeka Dominic Okongwu in 2012, of knowingly, intentionally, invidiously, maliciously, without just cause and upon false pretenses, did arrest,
prosecute, and brutally imprison plaintiff Emeka Dominic Okongwu for 18 years, 11 months and 27 days for allegedly grotesquely sexually abusing his 8 year-old twin daughters; causing plaintiff pecuniary and non-pecuniary damages, inter alia, loss of liberty, mental anguish, loss of family relations, continuing pain and suffering, post incarceration psychological issues, lost earnings, and an impaired earning capacity To Be Continued
APTS/HOUSES FOR RENT HOUSES FOR SALE
ROOMS FOR RENT: Delavan-Humboldt area, Bailey-Delavan. $325$480. Everything included. (716)818-3410.
LEGAL NOTICE Bids
Nichols Long & Moore Construction is seeking quotations from M/WBE suppliers and subcontractors for the City of Buffalo Filtered Water Conduit & Filter No. 22 Concrete Repairs/Rehabilitation project. Bids are due 5 PM December 11, 2015. Construction documents can be viewed at the NL&M’s office, 149 Gunnville Road, Lancaster, NY. Send proposals to mail@ nlmcc.net LEGAL NOTICE 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 Tuesday, January 5, 2016 at 10:00 a.m., proposals will be publicly opened and read aloud for: PROJECT 0093-008: P.S. 93: Southside Elementary – Air Conditioning Bids will be opened for the following two (2) prime contracts: Mechanical and Electrical. Beginning Monday, December 7, 2015, 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 716-9957777. 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 Thursday, December 17, 2015 at 3:00 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 Daniel J. Keefe, RA, 716-816-3725. Paul McDonnell, AIA Director of Facilities Planning
13
EMPLOYMENT Early Childhood Education Specialist. Full time Education Specialist to provide social/emotional education program for students in Grades K-Two. Bachelor’s Degree in early childhood education, human services or mental health related field plus three years experience working with young children required. Resumes can be sent to montanari@eriemha.org
PASTOR VACANCY Resumes are being accepted. PLEASE SEND TO: Antioch Baptist Church Attention: Deacon James Thomas 1327 Fillmore Avenue Buffalo, New York 14211 Email: antioch1327@verizon
MUSICIAN WANTED The New Hope Baptist Church in Niagara Falls, New York is looking for a qualified pianist/ organist to play for a medium size congregation. Must be a person of faith and have a commitment to building the music program. Salary-Negotiable. Knowledge of praise, gospel and traditional music helpful and is able to work with a youth choir. If interested, please contact Deacon Michael Williamson at 716622-2189 or Deacon Patrick Jones at 716-990-3676.
JOBS
Buffalo Employment and Training Center 77 Goodell St., Buffalo, 856-5627/ Fax 7856-5670 www.workforcebuffalo.org
APTS/HOUSES FOR RENT HOUSES FOR SALE email:
advertising@thechallengernews.com
Deadline 5 p.m. FRIDAY
JOBS
Buffalo Employment and Training Center 77 Goodell St., Buffalo, 856-5627/ Fax 7856-5670 www.workforcebuffalo.org Free services to all jobseekers looking to find better paying work, an exciting new career, or wanting to upgrade skills to become more marketable in today’s marketplace.Orientation Mon – Thurs 10 am or 2 pm.
14
Challenger Community News • December 2, 2015
NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS
3-WAY
SUN 11/22
MON 11/23
TUES 11/24
WED 11/25 THURS 11/26 FRI 11/27 SAT 11/28
MID-292 MID-342 MID-555 MID-642 MID-518 MID-002 EVE-311 EVE-593 EVE-304 EVE-678 EVE-428 EVE-426
MID-152 EVE-985
Buffalo State Bengals Begin Conference Play This Weekend
MID- 8741 EVE- 3583
WIN 4
MID -7616 EVE- 0057
MID - 7103 EVE - 3899
MID-4878 EVE-5982
MID -3548 EVE- 1101
MID-3207 EVE- 0053
MID-3674 EVE-2281
T
he month of December means only one thing to Buffalo State Men’s Basketball Coach Fajri Ansari - SUNYAC con14-16-28-31-37 5-10-24-26-38 1-4-9-31-33 5-10-11-19-35 10-12-13-15-22 9-14-24-33-37 5-12-22-23-29 ference play begins!!! TAKE 5 And although his Bengals are on a 3 game winning streak, he will tell you that the most important games are the SUNYAC conference games. Those are the games that the 10 SUNYAC teams (Brockport, Geneseo, Oneonta, Plattsburgh, Fredonia, 13-32-35-42-52-54#9 6-14-25-39-44-48 #33 LOTTO New Paltz, Oswego, Cortland, Potsdam and BUFFALO STATE COLLEGE) must win to make the playoffs and earn the coveted NCAA playoff spot that is guaranteed to the team who wins the SUNYAC title. With that thought in mind, the Bengals await their next opponent, the Cortland Red Dragons, who will be HOT TIPS coming to Buffalo State Sports Arena Friday December 4th to kick off SUNYAC conference play. Many observers feel that this year’s Bengals team is possithe deepest and most talented that they have seen in recent bly Challenger Hits memory. In their first 4 games (5 counting an exhibition game vs Canisius college), the Bengals have had a different leading Midday scorer in each game (5 different leading scorers in total). If ever there was a team that 1 could describe as “balanced”, then this 547-491-165-990-256-035-068-475-176-970-370-198-513Bengals team would qualify as such a team. 152 -Number Book (bx) 522-809-507-647-350-760-919-513-891-558-047-060-307Starting with the backcourt of Juniors Nico McLean (Amherst 518 -Hot tips , Luckie Duckie (bx) H.S.) and Jordan Glover (St Joes H. S.) you have what many 491-507-912-107-047-311-567-239-865-791-085-473-165342 -November Vibes, Luckie Duckie, consider in the SUNYAC conference, the best backcourt combo 789-247-567-543-136-705-892-965-135-799-510-460 in the league. Mclean was recently voted MVP of the Buffalo Sagittarius (bx) Capricorn (straight) State Coles tournament after averaging a double-double in 2 “Its In T he Stars” Billy Bye Bye Sez: games vs Villa Maria and Nazareth College. Add to that, Nico Aquarius -496-235-165-579 Evening 570-153-268-393-738-118 also being selected by the SUNYAC conference as its most rePisces 056-362-237-694 985 -Cancer (bx) 1447-1645-4444-6888 cent Player of the week (selected from all 10 teams). Jordan Cancer - 482-372-895-718 “Believe in miracles but 428 -Cancer (bx) Glover’s claim to fame is helping direct the Bengals attack. His Aries 561-236-164-469 don’t depend on them” 678 -Hot Tips (bx) last game, vs then nationally ranked Hobart College, he had 10 Taurus -258-231-026-695 assists which moved him into 1st place in the conference in both 311 -ZR Rundown (straight ) Gemini-495-257-694-508 assists and in assist to turnover ratio. Add Jordan’s silky smooth ONTHLY VIBES Leo-345-213-157-201 jumper, to Nico’s slashing “no holds barred attack the basket” Virgo 385-291-431-170 289-163-654-890-243 style, and you have a tough match up for any team. And it gets LUCKIE DUCKIE Libra -247-723-179-501 better. HITS Scorpio - 453-253-571-597 Clearly other pieces have to fall in place for any team at the 202 335 -2015-4444 260-352-064-296 Sagittarius - 389-701-234-924 level to be successful and the Buff State Bengals are college 134-431-143 Capricorn:893-275-342-506 no different. Sophomore - Michael Henry (West Genesee H.S. 648*123*104 – Syracuse), has been on a tear. Ranked in the top 10 in the con980-422-809 quick money $$$$ THE NUMBER BOOK ference in 3 different categories, Mike has shown the versatility 981-989-970-990-080189-809-444 of a player who can play both back court and front court posi800-515-996 390-196-102-581-752tions. His full array of talents helped him put him on the All886-980-422 319-408-378-352-126 tournament team of the Coles tournament. Another “Jordan” 322-522-355 189-444-886-514 that is playing a large role with the Bengals is Junior - Jordan 322-522-412-432-421800-592-390 Chateau (Bayside H.S. – Queens NY). Jordan (aka “J. C.”) is 423 394-833-924 the “anchor” of the Bengal’s defense and at 6‘7 he presents a pretty formidable presence in the middle, both offensively and 3-Way Winning Numbers Last Year 2014 127-909-418 defensively. Add Junior Lovell “Vel” Smith (McKinley H. S.) 927-313-466 12/11/2014 Evening 0-7-8 who was the Bengals leading scorer before he got hurt vs Point 12/11/2014 Midday 1-4-2 124-550-525 Park, to this mix. “Vel’s” array of inside and outside moves is 12/10/2014 Evening 4-9-4 583-269-508 unmatched by anyone at his position in the SUNYAC. Many 12/10/2014 Midday 4-9-2 observers in the SUNYAC say that Smith is the toughest 6’3 12/09/2014 Evening 2-5-5 “power” forward that the league has seen in years. He is a nightGrandma’s Picks 12/09/2014 Midday 1-5-1 mare match-up for taller yet slower players. In his 1st game this 12/08/2014 Evening 7-5-3 793-563season against Canisius College, Lovell led all scorers (on both 12/08/2014 Midday 6-7-8 teams) with 23 pts. He has sat out the past 3 games, but hopes 12/07/2014 Evening 5-0-4 Powerful New Energy Shift for Chinese New Year of the Sheep, Lucky to be ready for Cortland Friday night! Stay tuned…it only gets 12/07/2014 Midday 3-0-7 Number “8.” This year marks 4017 Years of Celebration. better! 12/06/2014 Evening 1-1-8 “Watch your temper!” The pieces don’t stop there but rather increase as you go down 12/06/2014 Midday 9-3-6 roster. Junior Leon Moise (Thomas Jefferson H.S. – Brookthe 12/05/2014 Evening 5-8-8 Best Triple for Month of NOVEMBER 666 lyn) is the tallest member of the Bengals team. At 6’8 Leon has 12/05/2014 Midday 1-5-3 Doubles - 556-911-255-677 12/04/2014 Evening 0-3-1 shown flashes of brilliance in recent games. Many expect Leon 12/04/2014 Midday 8-2-3 to have a breakout season this year. Speaking of “breakout”, WEEK DAY HITS! 12/03/2014 Evening 3-9-2 senior Kevin Marmolejos (Beach Channel H.S. – Woodhaven 12/03/2014 Midday 1-8-2 mon 852-tues 987-wed 726 Ny) had the “breakout” game of the year last week vs. Hobart.
815
996
003
648
514
867 140
Zakiyyah’s Rundown (ZR)
thurs 931-fri 794-sat 015
12/02/2014 Evening 4-6-8 12/02/2014 Midday 8-8-8
Continued Page 15
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Challenger Community News • December 2, 2015
Holiday Celebrations and Tree Lightings!
Monday November 30
Thursday December 3
Sunday December 6
Prisoners Are People Too Meeting: Pratt Willert Community Center, 422 Pratt Street 7 – 9pm.
Lecture: “Millard Fillmore, the Fugitive Slave Law of 1850, and Slave Hunting in New York” : 7:00 PM Buffalo History Museum.
Friendship Baptist Church Tea: 402 Clinton Street, 4p.m.Theme: “What God Has for Me is for Me”; First Lady Kim Jackson speaker.Rev. Edward Jackson, Jr., Pastor; (For info 847-1020
Afrikan Consciousness Workshop: 6-7:45 p.m., Merriweather Library Jefferson @ E. Utica; every Monday; public invited. Tuesday December 1 Dorie Miller Rifle and Pistol Club Inc. Monthly Educational Forum: 7 p.m., 499 Franklin St., (716)771-0138 or www. maxi7.com Wednesday December 2 BOARD OF EDUCATION Meeting: 5:30 p.m., Waterfront School, 95 Fourth Street (near Carolina Street).
•Canalside Friday December 4 @ 5 pm •MLK Park Saturday December 5 @ 4:30-6pm •Buffalo Place Rotery Rink Downtown Saturday December 5 @ 6 pm •Roswell Park Cancer Institute’s (RPCI’s) Tree of Hope lighting ceremony Friday, December 11; 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Roswell Park campus. •African American Heritage Corridor December 13 @ 3 p.m.
Line Dance Fitness For Seniors: Hustle For Health at the Gloria J Parks Center, 3242 Main St. 11am - 12pm age 50+ FREE. 832 -1010 www.HustleForHealth.com Khametic Ascendants: 9-10 a.m. & 12:30 a.m. (after midnight), Channel 20. The Durham Central City Baby Café: every Wed. and Thurs. 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. 200 E. Eagle. Dinner free! 885-6348.
Saturday December 5 Christmas Bazaar and Wonderland: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., True Bethel Church 907 East Ferry. Queen City Market : 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Karpeles Manuscript Library, 453 Porter Ave. Eye On History Award: Presented to George and Betty Jean Grant at the Frank E. Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Avenue from 3 - 5:00 p.m.
WINTER DANCE SPECIAL!
Monday December 7 Afrikan Consciousness Workshop: 6-7:45 p.m., Merriweather Library Jefferson @ E. Utica; every Monday; public invited Tuesday December 8 See You At The EVENTS!
Miss Barbara’s School of Dance will be registering for Winter Dance Classes in Hip Hop, Jazz, and Tap at the school, 1832 Main Street (Delavan Station Plaza) Monday December 7 and Tuesday December 8 from 6-7 p.m. For more information call (716) 834-16544.
UMOJA Inc. Annual Convening of the Elders: 11 a.m. brunch buffet followed by Spoken Word from noon to 5 p.m. Rafi Greene Center, Fillmore at Glenwood. Free 892-3462.
DROP OFF YOUR OIL-BASED PAINTS.
Screening: "The Murder of Fred Hampton": 12:30 pm, Merriweather Library. The Blackness Project Kickstarter Launch Event: A documentary film by Korey Greet, 1-7 p.m., Tri-Main Center, Daemen College Theater 2495 Main St. Rm. 530.
BUFFALO STATE BENGALS contiinued Kevin hit his first 5 3-pointers on the way to breaking former Bengal great, Jake Simmons record of 9 3-pointers in a game with 10 3-pointers (finishing with 32 pts for the game). This writer has no doubt that the best is yet to come from Kevin. Not to be out done on “break out” games, Freshman - Dominic “Dom” Grayer (Bishop Loughlin H. S. – Brooklyn) had a break out game of his own 2 weeks ago versus NAIA Div. 2 Point Park when, in his first official college game, he went 6 for 10 from beyond the arc. Recruited for his shooting ability, “Dom” did not disappoint. Senior Akeem Williams (White Plains H.S. - White Plains) is your “rugged” ”beat him up down low” “do whatever it takes” type player. Usually matched up against the opponent’s toughest rebounder, Akeem (a.k.a. “Keem”) more than holds his own game in and game out. Did someone say “the best is yet to come”? No doubt! “Deep” is the key word at 1300 Elmwood Avenue, and the Bengals are DEEP. Sophomore - Redell Freeman (Bishop Kearney H. S. – Rochester). “Free” as he is affectionately called, has shown to be a reliable replacement for any of the point guards on the team when called upon. The same can be said for Junior-Traquan “Boog” Scales (Mount Vernon H. S. – Mount Vernon).”Boog” is cat quick ball handler (like “Free”) and also a tenacious defender. Both “Boog” and “Free” form, what many observers say is a pair of the quickest guards in the league. Add a 3rd guard, Freshman - Ryniek Holloway (Bayside H.S. – Corona NY). Assistant Bengals Coach Mark Gross uses one word, “poise”, when talking about this 1st year player from Bayside. Never gets rattled and shows maturity beyond his years. Big man, 6’ 7 Junior - Luke Jenkins (Bethlehem H.S. – Slingerlands Ny) has been a steady performer since he arrived at Buffalo State 2 years ago. This writer believes that Luke, who does whatever is asked whenever it is asked, will be an instrumental piece in the Bengals success this season once he recovers from a hand injury! And there is still more depth to this Bengals squad. Add to the Bengals depth, homegrown talent Junior – Marcus Nelson (Hutch Tech H.S.) who can play the small or power forward positions and has shown to be a tenacious defender when called upon. Ditto can be said for Freshman - Jordan “J.O.” Mair (Green Tech H.S. – Troy) who played on a State championship team his junior season for legendary coach Jamil Hood. “J.O.” is fearless and has relieved at either guard position. “J.O.” has proven to be a tireless player whose work ethic is 2nd to none. Add to this mix Senior - Derrick “Fire” Fernandez (Herbert Lehman H.S. – Bronx), who will be joining the Bengals squad after Christmas. When you add a player, who led the Bengals in 2014-15 with 100 assists, then the future only gets brighter! And yes, the future is bright at Buffalo State. Clearly this year’s Bengals team looks like one that will bring an exciting, competitive and fast paced brand of basketball to the Western New York basketball scene. When you see young men like these who are not only NCAA athlete’s but also FULL TIME COLLEGE STUDENTS who come from all walks of life, then you have in place positive role models for so many of our youth. Looking for something to do this Friday at 7:30? Come see 16 positive role models go at it for Buffalo pride at the Buffalo State Sports arena vs Cortland, or Saturday at 4 vs Oswego. Trust me…you won’t be disappointed! Go BENGALS! -A.E
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Household hazardous waste should be dropped off on special collection days. Visit our website or call 311 for locations. CAN IT BE RECYCLED? Call 311 or visit BuffaloRecycles.org to learn more. MAYOR BYRON W. BROWN
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THROUGH THESE GATES: BUFFALO’S FIRST AFRICAN-AMERICAN ARCHITECT, JOHN E. BRENT Rare photographs, original drawings, blueprints and artifacts on view through March 27. For group tours, call 716-878-3156.
www.BurchfieldPenney.org
Harold Wallace, photographer, Portrait of John E. Brent (detail), ca. 1950s; Gelatin silver print on paper, 5" x 4"; Private Collection.
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Challenger Community News • December 2, 2015
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