Challenger Community News December 9, 2021

More Holiday Cheer Coming Up This Weekend With Kente Claus!

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December 9, 2021 | FREE thechallengernews.com | Community News

ATTORNEY FOR BETTY JEAN GRANT CALLS CHARGES A “TRAVESTY”

Enters Not Guilty Plea on Behalf of Community Activist

Youth Led Initiative Focuses on Missing Children Page 8

Rochester Mayor’s “Lovely Legacy“ Farewell Address Page 2

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M&T ‘s Small Business Pitch Competition Winners Page 9

“Communities Not Cages”: Overhaul State’s Racist Sentencing Laws

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INSIDE ROCHESTER

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 9,2021

In Farewell Address, Mayor Warren Says The 48th Bay Classic Grambling Tigers v.

Stage is Set for All People to Succeed. Southern Jaguars: The Experience of a Lifetime!

Tells City Children: Don’t Quit!

By George Radney

T

R

ochester Mayor Lovely A. Warren delivered her farewell address today with a message of confidence in the city’s people and hope for its children.

“We showed the world what the people of Rochester are capable of; created new opportunities across the city for all of our people,” Mayor Warren said. “We celebrated our diversity and the richness of the many cultures and traditions that make up our neighborhoods. We demonstrated beyond a doubt that the people of Rochester, regardless of their zip code; regardless of who they love; regardless of the color of their skin; can succeed.”

Released as a video address on the City’s website and social media platforms, Mayor Warren’s farewell speech mirrored the format of her 2014 inaugural address, which was delivered as a message directly to her daughter Taylor, now 11, and the children of Rochester.

“I knew every decision I was about to make as Mayor would be held against the test of a mother’s love for

Lovely Warren became the city's first female mayor and youngest in modern times, was mentioned as a possible candidate for state and federal offices, and she found her way onto the White House guest list.

her child,” Mayor Warren said. “Parents want what’s best for their children, which is why, as I governed, I let my love for Taylor, and the children of Rochester, be my guide. So as we close this chapter of Rochester’s story – our story, I’ll finish where I started: with a message to our children.”

Mayor Warren, 44, served two terms as the Mayor of Rochester; is Rochester’s first woman Mayor; first African American woman mayor and first mother to be mayor. She left office at last Wednesday.

“I have no regrets,” she said.

“I fulfilled the promises I made eight years ago. And so many people helped me along the way. And our work speaks for itself.”

DES Commissioner Jones to Retire After Over 40 Years of Service Rochester’s Department of Environmental Services Commissioner Norman H. Jones will retire at the end of the year, closing a more than 40-year career that took him from the City’s lowest paid title to the head of the Department with its largest budget.

“My life has been blessed because I have a beautiful family that remains healthy and safe and I had the opportunity to work where I was called,” said Commissioner Jones Commissioner Jones. “Public service is the highest calling, and I had the honor to serve the people of the city I love, with people I love and respect, over the course of a career that touched six decades. I cannot ask for more than I was given, and I thank God for that every day.”

Commissioner Jones has been the commissioner of the Department of Environmental Services (DES) since 2014.

He began working as a summer seasonal worker as a junior recreation leader at Clinton-Baden Street Park in 1977 and started his first full-time job in 1985 as a DES customer-service representative, the predecessor of today’s 311 call taker.

The Mayor’s administrative agenda focused on creating more jobs, safer and more vibrant neighborhoods and better educational opportunities. By the end of her tenure, there was demonstrable progress on every one of these fronts.

These include the introduction of Body Worn Cameras for police officers, which sparked a host of police reforms; the construction or renovation of more than 4,000 new affordable homes; and the establishment of a Community Beacon School at School No. 17 to serve as a demonstration project for other schools.

Mayor Warren also led the city through the early critical months of the Coronavirus Pandemic by forming partnerships to protect the city’s most vulnerable residents against the virus and the economic shutdown. She responded to the social turmoil of the Pandemic and death of Daniel Prude with a comprehensive criminal justice reform agenda that redefined the roles of law enforcement and civilian agencies in public safety.

As the Pandemic response evolved from protection to recovery, the Warren Administration introduced its Equity and Recovery Agenda and elevated the achievement of racial and systemic equity.

Mayor Warren also provided the city’s faith community with focused opportunities to extend their missions directly into city neighborhoods, creating a powerful new resource. Following a Continued Page 16

he annual Bayou Classic commemorates historically Black colleges and universities academic achievement, tradition, sportsmanship, marching bands, and friendly competition.

The “Classic” is an exhibition of high standards and tradition between the two Louisiana HBCU institutions of Grambling State University, including but not limited to a Battle of the Bands and Greek Show, galas and parties, parade, and other sights, sounds, and food that fill the city of New Orleans. As a graduate of Canisius College, my familiarity with the Bayou Classic was via NBC televising the game and watching analysts by one of my favorites, Ahmad Rashad. Experiencing it live, I realize that the Bayou Classic is more than a game, it’s an experience far beyond what was televised and of course, the game was even more exciting viewing in person.

This year the Classic was held November 26 in Caesar’s Superdome in New Orleans. It was an interesting match up with both head coaches being Interim Head Coach.

Southern University Coach Jason Rollins was completing his first season as Head Coach and his second season on the Bluff. Grambling

State Interim Head Coach Terrence Graves is 25-year veteran Coach in the Southwestern Athletic Conference. This game is always anti climatic being the end of a fabulous weekend, but Southern came back to tie the game under two minutes to play only to lose on a last second field goal by Classic MVP Garrett Urban. Garrett kicked a record 5 field goals in the game. The passing game has invaded Historical Black Colleges and Universities, which were on display in the game with Grambling State Elijah Walker and Southern Jaguars Ladarius Skelton making quality passes throughout the competition. Ladarius Skelton also could run with deceptive moves helping to get Southern back into the game.

BILLS RECAPBY RADNEY & CHEEKS

Bills Stampeded By Run Happy Patriots 14 - 10 The Bills defense, playing with inexperienced linebacker Tyrel Dodson, got run over by an experienced offensive line and superior coaching staff in Monday night’s 14-0 loss to the Patriots.

The Bills need a bigger nose tackle and better edge rushers who can make plays at the line of scrimmage. This game was what I predicted - a nail-biter with Bills offense continuing to struggle without a strong running game. The Bills front office seemed to forget they live

and play in Western New York. It gets very cold with high winds, rain, sleet, and snow some of the time. You must have a running game to be successful in the NFL. I would give running back Antonio Williams a chance to run inside the tackles in a physical manner. The Bills do not have a physical running back or game plan in order to play in these types of elements.

The Bills defensive unit has to be embarrassed by getting its butt kicked by a very large

George Radney (left) and Journalist Roland Martin.

It’s was a very enjoyable game and weekend that all Black people should experience in their lifetime.

Follow me on FACEBOOK, Instagram, Twitter: georgeradney@georgeradman, LIVE STREAMING: Pro Talk Plus the Winner’s Edge every Saturday at Noon EST and 9am PST. RADIO: Pro Talk Plus, every Saturday morning on The Beat 105.5FM 7am – 8am. Every Sunday morning WHTK Fox Sports 1280 AM from 8am – 9am Rochester, NY

offensive line of New England Patriots that blocked for 46 rushes, 222 yards. There has only been one game in the history of the NFL where a team only threw two passes in a game and we had the pleasure of seeing it in 1974 with O.J. Simpson carrying the ball for Buffalo Bills in a win against the New York Jets. The Patriots threw the ball only three times on their way to stomping a mud hole and leaving cleat marks in the defensive linemen’s chest. Bills defensive lineman Harrison Phillips was the only one to show up and play with pride and make a few tackles at the line of scrimmage.

The Bills have only 5 days Continued Page 18

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 9,2021

AREA BRIEFS

Attorney Calls Charges Against Betty Jean Grant a "Travesty": Enters "Not guilty" Plea on Behalf of Community Activist

A NAACP Moving Into Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor

It was announced recently that the Buffalo Branch NAACP is moving into the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor. The 106-year-old branch will be located in the Nash Lofts, a newly renovated building located at the southeast corner of Michigan Avenue and Broadway. Nash Lofts, a $6 million restoration project, is a 40,000 squarefoot mixed-use building that will include 18 new apartments, commercial space, parking and a restaurant. The nearly $6 million public-project is headed by architect Steve Carmina and landlord Roger Trettel. The NAACP will be located on the ground floor. The corridor also includes the Nash House, the Colored Musicians Club, the Michigan Street Baptist Church and WUFO Radio . Rev. Mark Blue is president of the local chapter of the NAACP. The office space is being provided rent-free by the developer.

Partnership for The Public Good Releases New Policy Brief Dealing With Buffalo's Untapped Power to Discipline Police Officers

Drawing on decisions from the New York State Court of Appeals, the Partnership for the Public Good has released a new policy brief, “The City of Buffalo’s Untapped Power to Discipline Police Officers." The brief argues that the City of Buffalo has an untapped power to discipline police officers, outside of the provisions in its contract with the police union.

Both court decisions and Buffalo’s legislative history grant it this authority. However, elected officials have not pursued reforms through collective bargaining agreements, or created new disciplinary systems outside of the police contract—such as civilian oversight with disciplinary power. The brief examines the outsized power police unions have had in Buffalo and throughout the country, how they use that power to shield problematic officers from discipline.

STAND UP BUFFALO Rental Assistance Program Re-Launched The City of Buffalo and Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency (BURA) re-started the STAND-UP Buffalo program on November 29, in response to the temporary shutdown of the New York State Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) due to lack of funds. The STAND-UP Buffalo program will provide at least an additional $2 million in assistance to qualifying renters who owe six months or less of unpaid rent.

Residents can begin the application process by calling 211 or visit: standupbuffalo.com.

ttorney and former Judge James A.W. McLeod entered a plea of “not guilty” on behalf of well known community activist Betty Jean Grant on Monday morning in Buffalo City Court Part 2.

The courtroom was filled to capacity with Grant supporters. A large, orderly crowd, unable to get in, waited patiently outside the doors.

Inside, a surreal scene played out in real time. One of the community’s most outspoken advocates; a businesswoman, wife, mother and grandmother; a former Jean Grant (center) and Attorney McLeod (right) meet elected official, teacher and school board Betty the press after leaving the courtroom. member, a community organizer and freedom fighter, stood silently next to her attorney in a Court of law where she was arraigned on election law violation.

On October 23 Mrs. Grant went to the Delavan Grider center to cast her vote during early voting when a person she recognized as a Brown supporter was inside the polling place “helping two other women use the Write down Byron Brown” rubber stamp to vote. Another woman was asked if she needed help as well. That woman happened to be a neighbor Grant has known for decades. Grant intervened, took out her phone and started to record the incident, which she believed to be suspect, and live streamed it on facebook.

According to the DA’s office, it was Mrs. Grant’s neighbor who urged prosecutors to charge her.

The DA has stated there will be no charges filed against any other person involved in the incident.

At Monday’s arraignment Attorney McLeod asked that the case be dismissed based on “legally defective” paperwork that did not comply “ with the statutory requirements.”

“The DA is trying to say that a question and answer statement equals what is required, which is a supporting deposition, a sworn statement by this woman, saying something happened. Not a question and answer session with some unknown person,” said McLeod.

Even the judge said from the bench he had never seen it done that way. Still, he dismissed the motion to dismiss and rescheduled the case for January 4, 2022.

Speaking with reporters outside the courtroom Attorney McLeod further confirmed his belief in his client’s innocence when he said, “I’m not satisfied that we’re even down here. In my opinion criminal charges never should have been filed. It was an isolated incident…a justifiable incident in the opinion of Mrs. Grant…one that I believe is understandable," and one he added, that clearly should not be prosecuted.

When asked by a reporter if she had anything to say, Mrs. Grant replied: “I just want to thank the community for their support… … I want to thank them for supporting me in my effort to help my neighbor… the woman who in question was my neighbor - I know her. I know her well and she knows me. So I’m just disappointed to be here, but I want to thank the community for supporting me and for standing for right and for justice, ”she said to applause.

Attorney McLeod earlier referred to the entire case as “a travesty.”

-Selected Prosecution?There are a lot of people who feel that this is a clear case of “selective prosecution.”

We recall how in May of 2019 Masten District Council Member Ulyesses Wingo brought a loaded gun into a city school - clearly illegal in New York State and against district policy. Erie County District Attorney John Flynn said that Wingo would not face legal consequences.

Is Betty Jean Grant being singled out by District Attorney Flynn because she was in the forefront of the movement to pressure his office in the struggle to seek justice for the remaining “Buffalo Five” (John Walker and Darryl Boyd) for a crime they did not commit? When their murder convictions were finally overturned this past summer, to show his disdain for Grant, she was barred from covering his news conference for the Challenger about the murder conviction reversal, when his aides made a rare demand for press credentials.Although she was not the only one without a press pass that day, she was the only reporter not allowed into the room.

Nor is the Democratic Party exactly thrilled with Betty Jean Grant. Most recently it was Betty who encouraged Kimberly Beaty to run for Sheriff after she was discouraged by the party from entering the race and initially convinced to drop out. She got back in the race and ultimately emerged the front runner. Officer Beaty was clearly the best candidate and she ran well. But party politricks, democratic disunity and the toxic residuals from a vicious, dark mayoral race was too much to overcome. She would not only had made history as the first woman and first African American to serve as Sheriff of Erie County, she would have been one of the best Sheriffs Continued Page 4

An all-Black unit of World War I The Harlem Hellfighters - fought German soldiers and American racism as part of a segregated U.S. Army.

The Harlem Hellfighters During World War 1 the Harlem Hellfighters spent more time in continuous combat than any other American unit of its size, and also suffered more casualties than any other American regiment. The soldiers often fought alongside the French Army because White American soldiers refused to go into battle with Black soldiers. Black members were also assigned manual labor service tasks initially for the same reason.

About 170 soldiers from the unit were later awarded the Croix de Guerre, a French military decoration usually used to recognize foreign allies.

But even when the soldiers returned home to New York, they were not permitted to participate in the military parade and a separate parade was organized on Fifth Avenue.

This year more than 100 years after these brave Black men fought so valiantly, The “Harlem Hellfighters Congressional Gold Medal Act” was signed into law Aug. 25, 2021 by President Joe Biden. This act awards the all-Black unit of World War I fighters who fought German soldiers and American racism as part of a segregated U.S. Army, the Congressional Gold Medal - Congress’ highest award -.

Family members of the soldiers received replicas of the medal.

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HEALTH MATTERS

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 9,2021

The Winter Solstice and Your Health: Free Special Screening of ‘FIGHT A Time for Regeneration Physically during the winter season we should eat foods and herbs which tonify and make the kidney stronger because it is the kidneys/bladder that is associated with the winter season.

The kidneys, in traditional Chinese medicine, is also thought of as the root of the body’s energy. The element associated with the kidneys is water (kidneys manage water distribution in the body). Just like your car needs a regular oil change, your body needs regular cleansing to run smoothly, Oriental healers know that in every season two inter-related organs get stimulated to cleanse and rebuild. The kidney and bladder has a complementary, balancing function to one another. Your food choices can either block this natural cleansing cycle or help it flow.

Beneficial foods for the kidneys include brown rice, buckwheat, adzuki beans, sturdy greens, roots, winter squash, seaweeds (kombu, hijiki, miso soup, arme and watermelon extract.

Additional good winter foods that support the kidneys and bladder include warm herbal teas with ginger, licorice root and cinnamon; an abundance of vegetable and bean soups (to promote kidney cleansing); lettuce, turnip, celery, asparagus, alfalfa, rye, oats, quinoa and amaranth; garlic, black pepper, cloves, flaxseed oil; black beans, chicken,, wild salmon; tofu, lentils, spirulina, blackberries, blueberrie,s lemon juice, cranberry juice.

Foods that stress these organs include ice cold food and drink, milk and dairy foods, too much raw food, sugar and honey and over-salting. Some body signals that your kidneys/ bladder are stressed: frequent, pale urine or scant, dark urine; low back ache, low sexual energy, bags under the eyes and often feeling cold.

In terms of meditation we should focus on letting go of the past and going beyond fear .Last but not least do your best to rest and sleep as must as you can until the spring arrives to enable your body to best take advantage of the natural rest and regeneration qualities of the winter.

(Research from various sources including “The Self-Healing Cookbook,

by Kristina turner and the Complete natural Medicine Guide to women’s Health by Dr. Sat DharamKaur, ND and the Internet)

BETTY JEAN GRANTcontinued fom page 3 ever elected.

Again, the divisive fear mongering, lies and dirty politics emulating from Byron Brown’s desperate campaign to win by any means necessary, temporarily tore this community apart.

Betty Jean Grant, as was The Challenger, on the other side of the fence and supported India Walton’s historic campaign for change.

A lot was at stake. Desperate and determined to win at any cost, an unprecedented “Beyond the Write Down Byron Brown” campaign was launched. To ensure its effectiveness the Brown campaign, according to a New York Times report, spent $100,000 to distribute tens of thousands of ink stamps bearing the mayor’s name to allow voters to ink his name on ballots.

The stamps are legal.

There was a lot of tension in the community, especially when early voting kicked off. There were plenty of rumors and fear of potential illegal voting and tricknology behind the stamps. Social media was on fire with fake news, cyber bullying and falsehoods. Campaign commercials coming out of the Brown camp went beyond lying, causing some people to be angry enough to possibly want to do harm to Ms. Walton as well as some of her supporters because of the big lie being perpetrated on the airwaves that she would fire 100 police officers if elected. And the fear mongering did not stop airing, even after it was proven to be just that -a lie.

Such was the climate when Betty Jean Grant went to vote Oct. 23. Is it any wonder that what she saw going on at that polling place gave her reason to suspect that perhaps something shady was going down?

When a reporter asked Betty Jean if she thought she received justice on Monday, her attorney McLeod volunteered to answer that question. “ Justice today was going through the process in its proper form and that was done…..so justice was done today,” said McLeod. “ Justice in the long run will be how this matter is ultimately resolved.” -A.B.

eat to live

FOR GOOD: One Body One Soul’ he Community Health selves engaging in deep selfT Center of Buffalo, Inc. reflection and giving voice (CHCB, Inc.), in collaboration with the Buffalo Documentary Project (BDP), will host a free special screening of “FIGHT FOR GOOD: One Body One Soul” Sat., Dec. 18, at the Dipson Amherst Theatre, 3500 Main. St. Seating opens at 10:30 AM. Screening begins at 11 AM. The screening will be followed by an audience “Talk Back” session featuring Dr. LaVonne Ansari, Chief Executive Officer, CHCB, Inc. and Dr. Kenyani Davis, MD, MPH, Chief Medical Officer, CHCB, Inc. If you would like to attend free "special screening", you can register at: https://tinyurl. com/ku283k7x FIGHT FOR GOOD” has been selected for screening at three prestigious film festivals, namely, the 10th Annual Greater Cleveland Urban Film Festival, the 2021 Charlotte Film Festival, and the African Film Festival Atlanta: Virtual 2021 "Fight for Good: One Body One Soul’ depicts CHCB leadership and providers going into the community in an endless effort to continue fighting the pandemic and provide healthcare for the most vulnerable residents residing in Buffalo and Niagara Falls. Residents give candid testimonials of personal loss, recovery, sickness, and ultimately, overcoming vaccine hesitancy.

Dr. LaVonne Ansari said “’Fight for Good: One Body One Soul’ shows that we are all connected. Ultimately, what affects one, affects all.

Nature does not give an advantage to where you live, rich over poor, or one person is better than another. ‘Fight for Good: One Body One Soul’ continues to capture our history of fighting for all that is good.”

“When we began our ‘Fight For Good’ journey, our initial objectives in collaborating with the Buffalo Documentary Project were simple.

We wanted to capture our experiences as community healthcare providers and impact our patients, family members, and friends. While we recorded our stories, we also unexpectedly found our-

to our vulnerabilities and the genuine, increasingly evident obstacles posed by systemic racism and healthcare inequities,” said Dr. Ansari.

“As this pandemic continued to twist and turn, both the community and providers had to learn from each Continued Page 16

Watch Trailer: https://tinyurl.com/erfhzftc

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 9,2021

Human Service Center Serves Buffalo’s Far East Side The Care Management Coalition of WNY’s (CMC) collaborative space houses 11 local human service agencies in a high-need area in Buffalo’s urban core is now open.

Located on the fourth and fifth floors of 1021 Broadway in Buffalo, upstairs from Jericho Road Community Health Center’s Broadway Clinic, member organizations include Algonquin Sports for Kids, Buffalo Urban League NY Project Hope, Center for Self-Advocacy, EPIC - Every Person Influences Children, Learning Disabilities Association of WNY, Mental Health Advocates of WNY, NYS Office for People with Developmental Disabilities, Parent Network of WNY, Project Play, Self-Advocacy Association of NYS, and Spectrum Health and Human Services. The John R. Oishei Foundation was an early supporter of this project.

Urban Family Practice Adds Three More Mobile Units

Judge Troutman

Judge Troutman Named to State Court of Appeals

TERRENCE D. McKELVEY Attorney at Law 181 Franklin Street Suite #301 Buffalo, New York 14202

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Gov. Kathy Hochul recently named Judge Shirley Troutman to a vacancy on New York’s highest court the Court of Appeals. Judge Troutman is currently serving on the Rochester-based Appellate Division of State Supreme court. When confirmed by the State Senate she will be only the second Black woman to serve on the high court. Troutman has more than three decades experience as a judge. She began her judicial career when she was elected to Buffalo City Court in 1994.

Urban Family Practice has increased its fleet's number of mobile units from one to four. With the addition of these units, Urban Family Practice will target the communities that need the most help. Urban Family Practice has committed itself to creating health equity across Buffalo's East and Westside. With the addition of these new mobile units, that dream can become a reality. The first order of business for the mobile units will address the vaccination disparities on the East side of Buffalo.

Dr. Vazquez, M.D. The East Side’s current rate of COVID-19 infection is 50 per 100,000: 10 times the rate of Erie County as a whole. East Side vaccination rates lag considerably behind other Erie County zip codes, with less than half of the population fully vaccinated.

"We propose a one-year initiative that engages community members on their terms, utilizes faith-based and community leaders; addresses the extreme social vulnerability, and ;connects marginalized individuals to community-based primary care and social determinants of health services," noted Dr. Raul Vazquez M.D.. Dr. Vazquez founder and chief executive officer of the Greater Buffalo United Accountable Healthcare Network, and the founder and president of Urban Family Practice P.C. and Westside Urgent Care "Elevated COVID-19 illness and mortality in Buffalo’s East Side are symptomatic of our long-term neglect of the area’s economic and health infrastructure. This project’s mobile clinic investments will outlive this pandemic by offering neighborhood, pop-up clinics to address social determinants of health concerns, chronic disease screening, provider visits, and childhood and adult vaccinations for other diseases. Considering the East Side’s low rates of retention in primary care and overutilization of hospital emergency departments, this project’s one-time investments could markedly improve disease management."

Urban Family Practice expressed sincere thanks Honorable April N.M. Baskin, District 2 Chairwoman for her hard work and dedication to making these mobile units a reality.

Urban Family Practice is proudly the oldest private practice on the west side of Buffalo.

The mission of Urban Family Practice is to promote health equity by taking the under out of “underserved” communities. Urban Family Practice is an affiliate of G-Health Enterprises, a health care organization that encompasses several affiliates.

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FAITH & FAMILY

Emmanuel Temple Holiday Musical!

Celebrate a holiday musical program Christmas Day, December 25, with the Emmanuel Temple Seventh-day Adventist Church, 179 East Ferry St., Buffalo, NY at 12:00 noon. Come be a part of this festive worship service.

Toy/Coat Giveaway

The Annual Toy/Coat Giveaway for children and adults, sponsored by United Healthcare, will be held on Tuesday, December 21 from 12 noon to 3 p.m. at the Dorothy J. Collier Community Center, 118 E Utica Street . Toys, new coats and monetary donations can be dropped off at the Collier Center Monday thru Friday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 9,2021

Dr. Doyle Publishes 12th Book Columnist and retired teacher Dr. Eva M. Doyle recently published her 12th book, Eye On History, The Golden Collection - Lost History, Forgotten History A book signing will be held on Saturday, December 11 at the Merriweather Library from 3 to 4 p.m. Also on December 18 at the Golden Cup, 1323 Jefferson at East Utica Street from 1 to 3 p.m.

The book traces African history from its earliest times to people and events in America.

"It is my hope that this book will be used by educators, students, parents, and others as a resource to learn more about African American History. It is called The Golden Collection because discovering new information about our history was like discovering gold. To God Be the Glory for giving me the energy and strength to write this important book" stated Dr. Doyle.

Eye On History, The Golden Collection is now available on Amazon. com. Barnesandnoble.com and at Xlibris.com and it can be ordered as an e-book. The books will also be available at Zawadi Books or can be purchased from Dr. Doyle by calling (716) 847-6010.

The prices of the book is $28.99 hard cover and $16.99 soft cover.

In Passing…..

Dr. James A. Williams, who served as Superintendent of Buffalo Public Schools from 2005 until 2011 died Nov. 16. He was 77. He had been living in his hometown of Washington, D.C. and running an educational consultant firm that advises educational institutions on helping their students complete their degrees and complete them on time.

May His Soul Rest Forever In The ETERNAL FIELDS OF PEACE

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 9,2021

Are We Closer to Seeing Humboldt Parkway Restored?

Assembly Majority Leader Peoples-Stokes Praises Gov. Hochul’s Backing for Kensington Expressway Project ments, alongside social jusNYS Assembly Majority Leader Crystal PeoplesStokes praises Governor Kathy Hochul’s support for the Kensington Expressway project.

The project seeks to fully cover the Route 33 Kensington Expressway from East Ferry to Best Streets to restore Frederick Law Olmsted’s vision for Humboldt Parkway while reconnecting the Hamlin

Park, Cold Spring, and MLK neighborhoods.

The project is seen rightfully by many as a way to correct a past injustice for communities of color that primarily reside in the neighborhoods that the highway has separated.

These reclamation-type projects have become more popular in recent years as state and federal govern-

Familiar Real Estate Terms And Definitions PART 2-Conclusion Here are the last few real estate terms and definitions I hope you find helpful.

9. Downpayment: A payment presented on the contract at the time of the signing, indicating the purchaser is making a financial commitment.

A lender has the option to request: 3% ;5% or 20% depending on the loan product. Veterans Certificate of Release DD214, (Honorable Discharge) has 100% financing.

10. Earnest Money Deposit: A buyer will pay a certain amount upon agreeing to purchase a home. This is indicated on the contract of sale ~~ may be known as an "Escrow Deposit." Of course this occurs after the acceptance of the offer by the seller.

The funds are given in "Good Faith" by the purchaser.

11. Escrow: Is an agreement between parties that certain funds will be held in care by a third party until required. In this case a deposit for the purchase of a home. Example: Real Estate~ purchaser signs the contract, presents a deposit to their agent, and that is held by a neutral party (seller agents company) and will be credited to the transaction at the closing.

12. Prepaids: These are expenses paid at the closing: property taxes,mortgage balance,utilities,homeowners insurance on property being purchased,home warranty,sump pump certificate,HOA (home owner association) etc.

13. Property taxes: Local governments impose taxes on real property and residential real estate. The tax rate is set however, and may change annually, along with the assessment value on a property.~City, County, School, Sewer, Water just to name a few

14. Deed: The recorded document indicating title conveyance on a property 15. Survey: Surveyor does a search to locate the property/ land and explore it in person. Is a written description of the measurements, location, address and details of the surrounding area. Also, the surveyor will provide how the property can be used for future improvements.

16. Lender Fees: Closing costs/fee of the purchase may include the following: Attorney, recording, underwriting, origination, application etc.

17. Third - Party Fees: Closing cost charged outside of the lender fees: appraisal, survey of property, title search, insurance, certification certificates (sump pump inspection) 18. Closing Costs: Lender fees, recording of documents, property taxes, transfer taxes,prepaids, escrows, homeowners insurance and HOA fees (homeowner assn.)

Enjoy your homes and surroundings more each day.

Be safe and stay focused. " It's A Great Time to Market & Locate a New Home " Hawwao Wajed / Real Estate Salesperson~Notary askhawa@kw.com / 716~867~4377 Cell Keller Williams Realty http://hawasellsnewyorkhomes.com

tice advocates who seek to right historical wrongs of environmental injustices that have negatively impacted low-income communities nationwide by way of increased traffic and pollution which led to many health complications (cancers, lupus, asthma), environmental issues, and decreased property values.

Majority Leader PeoplesStokes, who has been a staunch leader for almost two decades advocating for the project’s advancement said, “With a new federal transportation and infrastructure bill on the horizon, this is our moment to think and act boldly to make change for a better tomorrow: by replacing or redesigning the Rt. 33 Kensington. These expressways have long severed and disrupted our communities and recreational spaces, particularly Humboldt Parkway, which connected MLK Jr. Park with Delaware Park, which is the nexus and crown jewel of the Buffalo Olmsted Parks system.

We have reached a tipping point, where eliminating these barriers would be a significant step towards reunifying neighborhoods in our city and healing decades-old wounds.”

The project has a broad support base from virtually all of Western New York elected officials and stakeholders. Earlier this year, Majority Leader PeoplesStokes, alongside Restore Our Community Coalition (ROCC) has been quietly but effectively leading the charge for the removal of the Scajaquada and the restoration of Humboldt Parkway charge for years, and other federal, state, and local representatives, held a press conference advocating for the accelerated completion of the Department of Transportation’s Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).

A federally approved EIS is required to compete for the forthcoming federal infrastructure and transportation dollars that could possibly be beneficial for the Kensington project.

Humboldt at Northland ave. 1953.

8

SAVE OUR CHILDREN: Panelists and participants pose after the SOC Town Hall at Merriweather Library.

Save Our Children : A New Youth Led Initiative That Focuses On Missing Children In Buffalo

n Saturday, November 20, seats were filled at the MerriO weather Library’s Eva Doyle Auditorium for the first of its kind youth-led “Save Our Children” ( SOC) Town Hall.

It was a solution driven meeting of the minds with youth at the forefront, raising their voices of concern about safety and offering solutions about the crisis of missing Black and Brown children that plague our community.

Hosted by Open Buffalo’s Youth action Program and Project Mona’s House, public officials and community stakeholders served as panelists that included Louis Petrucci, President of the Buffalo Board of Education; Kareema Morris, Founder of Bury the Violence; multi disciplined artist educator Edreys Wajed; Chief Dawn Kent, special victims unit of the Buffalo Police Department; artist, activist and founder of Feed Buffalo Drea d’Nur and a representative from GLYS of WNY. “We came together to talk about solutions while we address the disparity between reporting and the attention that Black and Brown children receive vs our White counterparts. Solutions developed implemented and owned by youth,” said Project Mona’s house founder Kelly Galloway.

“It’s so inspiring and empowering to see youth really take matters into their own hands and say regardless of what police or schools say we know what’s happening in our own community and we know that we not only have the responsibility to keep each other safe, we know have a responsibility to use our leadership skills to develop into the people we need to be, “ said Jillian Hanesworth, Director of Leadership Development at Open Buffalo .

In a CNN report The FBI's National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database lists 424,066 missing children under 18 in 2018, the most recent year for which data is available.

About 37 percent of those children are Black, even though Black children only make up about 14 percent of all children in the United States - and that number is climbing.

One core solution presented by the Youth Action team is the forthcoming launch of SOC Alert Line, a unique text hotline to help identify missing children in Buffalo.

“The youth have been challenging me since March with this idea of raising awareness of saving children and the vulnerabilities they go through being trafficked and the negative labels they have when their safety is being jeopardized,” said Youth Organizer at Open Buffalo Devon Patterson The subscription based alert line will send text alerts to subscribers and showcase pictures of all missing children in Buffalo age 24 and younger. A trial run is scheduled for January of 2022 and interested subscribers can text the word SAVE to 1-877 -934- 7283 to receive alerts. ( The trial subscriptions is on first come first serve basis.)

Learn more about the Youth Action Program at openbuffalo.org and Project Monas House at projectmonashouse.com .

Spread the word and text the word SAVE to 1-877-934-7283 to receive text alerts for missing children. ~ staff writer.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 9,2021

"In order to avoid lack or poverty of purpose in our gift giving, we agreed that Kwanzaa gifts must always include two items:1.) a book, and 2.) a heritage symbol - regardless of what else is given. This stipulation clearly points to our priorities of building and liberating our people, The book reflects and reinforces our commitment to education as an indispensable part of the struggle for liberation and reconstruction, It fits firmly in the framework of the Kawaida contention that a key struggle is to recover and reconstruct our culture and history and begin to reshape reality in our own image and according to our own needs." from Kwanzaa: A Celebration of Family, Community and Culture by Dr. Maulana Karenga The 1619 Project created by Nikole Hannah-Jones The 1619 Project: Born on the Water by Nikole HannahJones and Renee Watson (childrens) Abolition for the People: The Movement for a Future Without Policing and Prisons Act Like You Got Some Sense: And Other Things My Daughter Taught Me by Jamie Foxx As the Wicked Watched: A Mystery novel by Tamron Hall Carla and the Christmas Cornbread by Carla Hall (children) Dwayne by Dwayne Wade Entertaining Race: Performing Blackness in America by Michael Eric Dyson Feeding the Soul by Tabitha Brown

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Nina: A Story of Nina Simone by Traci N. Todd Read Until You Understand: The Profound Wisdom of Black Life and Literature by Farah Jasmine Griffin Renegades: Born in the USA by Barack Obama and Bruce Springsteen Will by Will Smith

We also carry 2022 calendars, Christmas cards, Kwanzaa cards, Kwanzaa sets and Zawadi T-Shirts

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• Distance Learning options available for those who qualify

Online applications accepted at www.UpSkill.org QUESTIONS? Info@UpSkill.org or (716)888-7088 ext. 100

Buffalo Public Schools Adult Education Division Main Office 389 Virginia Street | Buffalo, New York 14201 (716)888-7088 ext.100 | info@UpSkill.org

9

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 9,2021

SAN Group Welcomes M&T Multicultural Small Business Innovation Lab Toni DuBois Agency, LLC Pitch Competition Winners Announced Hampton, NH - Satellite Agency Network (SAN) Group, Inc., the largest alliance of independent insurance agencies in the Northeast, is pleased to announce that Toni DuBois Agency, LLC of Buffalo, NY has joined the network.

Founded in 2014, the Toni DuBois Agency offers a full range of insurance services including auto, home, renters, business owners, life, health, and disability. The office is located at 1439 Main Street and primarily serves the communities of Buffalo, Rochester, and surrounding areas. The agency also holds licenses in the states of New York, Florida, Georgia, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Montana.

Insurance specialists offer personalized service to both English- and Spanish-speaking clients and teach a DMV-approved Certified Defensive Driving Course to assist customers in reducing the cost of their auto insurance. The agency also employs students from local colleges and the Mayor’s Summer Youth Internship Program, providing job experience and mentoring future insurance agents and employees.

“I'm excited to partner with SAN Group,” said agency owner Toni DuBois. “We pride ourselves on providing knowledgeable advice and outstanding service with transparency and honesty.

Together with SAN, we are now able to offer a greater number of options to our clients and community.”

DuBois has over 25 years of experience in the insurance industry and was the first African American woman to own a Farmers Agency in the state of New York. She is a graduate of Medaille College in Buffalo, NY with a B.S. in Business Management, and holds the LUTCF designation. DuBois is active in her community, frequently spearheading fundraising events and presenting for local groups.

T

hree Black-owned, Buffalo-based businesses were named the winners of M&T Bank’s Multicultural Small Business Innovation Lab pitch competition and were awarded prize funding to accelerate their growth.

Franketta Willoughby Daycare was the top winner and received a $5,000 prize grant. Alicia and Alisa Officer of Unapologetic Coffee received the second-place $3,000 prize, and Brianna Clemons of BCW Dispatching and Consulting Group secured the $2,000 prize.

Alicia and Alisa Officer launched Unapologetic Coffee

-ProfilesFranketta Willoughby Daycare: Born and raised in Buffalo, Franketta Willoughby started her daycare company in 2015, recognizing the need to help single parents access high-quality, affordable care for their children. As the pitch competition’s top winner, Willoughby plans to use her prize funding to improve and grow her space so she can accept more children, hoping to expand from serving three to eight families in the next six months. She also wants to launch a website and improve her marketing.

Unapologetic Coffee: Inspired by their grandmother’s generous spirt and love of coffee, Alicia and Alisa Officer launched Unapologetic Coffee to make specialty coffee more accessible to Black and Brown people in Buffalo. Shedding light on the lack of representation in the coffee industry, the Officer sisters will provide a high-quality product in a welcoming environment while educating their customers and making them feel valued and appreciated. Unapologetic Coffee produces Fair Trade, small-batch coffee roasts and sells their products to other businesses and directly to consumers via online sales and subscription services. The company plans to use its prize funding to expand their social media marketing capabilities

Franketta Willoughby Daycare

Brianna Clemons of BCW Dispatching and Consulting

BCW Dispatching and Consulting Group: A company that contributes to the global efforts to improve the efficiency of supply chains, BCW Dispatching and Consulting Group partners with owner-operator truck drivers to provide back-office services that empower drivers to maximize their deliveries and revenues. Led by CEO and Fleet Manager Brianna Clemons, BCW lives out its motto – “Focus on the road while we focus on you!” – by helping owner-operators secure freight, negotiate rates, plan routes and remain in compliance with regulations. With its prize funding, Clemons will explore upgrading BCW’s software and technology and hiring more dispatchers.

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10

Entertainment

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 9,2021

Kente Claus, The International Afri-Centric Father Claus With A Cause Has A Full Weekend Ahead In The City Of Buffalo Dec 11 And 12 !

K

ente Claus, who some may be familiar with and some learning about this year, has been traveling around North America to different areas of respected Black and Brown communities from the west coast to right here in the City of Buffalo spreading joy and the true spirit of Christmas for the past couple of years.

You may have spotted him on his continued mission to get support to help boys and girls in Africa and the Caribbean, over in the African American Heritage Corridor or at popular COMIC DERAY DAVIS AT businesses around town raising awareness and building supTHE HELIUM port for kids a little less fortunate.

DeRay Davis is a multi-facet“What I hope to accomplish each and every Christmas ed comedic force who's conis to remind everyone why we celebrate Christmas, to ignite quered everything from the the song ‘Joy To the World’ in their hearts and to educate stage to the big screen. Davis the youth on who they are and where they come from,” said first made a name for himself Kente Claus creator and performer Dewitt Lee . in the stand-up world, winning Kente Claus offers spirited words of wisdom, hope and Comedy Central's Laugh Rispeaks life to children. ots Competition and appear“Every year it becomes more and more important to lift the ing in the Cedric the Enteryoung spirits of children as well as their parents. They who tainer Festival. Along the way It’s Party Time With Foxie he made the leap to the big especially have had a very difficult time, nothing warms the screen with roles in the "Barheart of a parent than to see their child smile,” he continued.

Brown and Men of Power! bershop" trilogy, "Semi-Pro," With stories of our ancestors from Egypt, Ghana and people and "21 Jump Street." Most of African descent across the world, Kente Claus aims to shift It’s party time with Bufrecently Davis was tapped to their focus from material gains to value what is most imporfalo’s own Foxie Brown and host the reboot of "Hip Hop tant and fundamental such as faith, family, future and most importantly for the children, to have fun.

Men of Power back by popSquares" on VH1.Catch him Kente is inviting people in our city and around the world to join his mission of spreading hope and love through selfless ular demand on Saturday, on stage at the Helium: acts of giving and now he has a fun-filled two-day weekend planned this holiday season.

December 4 from 12 noon-3 •Thu. Dec 16 @ 7:15 PM “This year’s Christmas message is to see today as a gift, the present .. so unwrap every day with great anticipation and no p.m. at the Broadway Mar•Fri. Dec 17 For 2 shows matter what you get, be grateful because it was given to us through love, the love of God,” concluded Kente Claus. ket, 999 Broadway St. Enjoy 7 PM & 10 PM This weekend ( as shown in the ad below) Kente will be out and about in Buffalo : music, singing old school, •S at, Dec 18 for 2 Shows On December 11 new school, line dancing and 7 PM & 10 PM Kente Claus will be making some surprise visits to select community schools to spread joy and lift the spirits of children more. FREE! •Sun. Dec 19 @ 7 PM on his way through the city Saturday morning.

He will also be creating a special Christmas message B U F FA LO P H I L H A R M O N I C O R C H EST R A and reading for families and kids that will be found Saturday evening on his social media page @kenteclaus on Facebook and Instagram and will also be found on the Challenger News social media pages.

On December 12 Kente Claus is having a special event and invites kids and families to meet at 2pm at Canalside Carousel to Board the Kente Claus Christmas Express at 3pm (free) for a ride to Fountain Plaza with a surprise guest who will board each of the stops. At Fountain Plaza, there will be Free(limited time only) Ice Skating with Kente!

Thu Dec 16, 10:30am | Fri Dec 17, 10:30am There will also be photos Sat Dec 18, 7:30pm | Sun Dec 19, 2:30pm and storytime opportunities throughout the day at John Morris Russell, conductor Oyoyos Picture Perfect Picnics, the only indoor picnic Festive Pops favorites featuring sensational Buffalo singer facility in the world located George Brown, Normal St. Entrance, Darlene Ceglia Dance in the heart of the Theatre District. Bookings require Project and an eclectic variety of carols plus seasonal music an RSVP and time slots for from popular song, film, musical theatre, gospel, and jazz. this holiday is ONLY Sunday, Monday or Tuesday go Coffee concerts to kenteclaus.com to secure presented by your spot or call Natalie from Oyoyos at 716-55321326 9908

BUY HOLIDAY TICKETS NOW!

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 9,2021

ROOTS THE BAND: From the popular Larry Salter Soul Orchestra to his newest musical offering - Roots The Band - Buffalo's Larry Salter (pictured above on sax wearing shades) continues to prove himself to be the consummate musician and visionary. His latest musical venture, the establishment of "Roots The Band," premiered at the Broadway Market in November to an enthusiastic and appreciative audience. The multi-talented Buffalo born and raised musician's career spans over 50 years. He humbly gives credit for his success to the Creator. Play on Larry! Play on Roots! and Definitely Play on Soul Orchestra!

Street Legacy Photo by Darvin Adams

ON STAGE: The beautiful and talented Niagara Falls Music Hall of Famer Marsha McWilson returns to Batavia Downs Park Place Event Center for another great performance! It's a special Holiday Show you don't want to miss! Tickets are just $10, $15 VIP and av available at bataviaconcerts.com

ART ON VIEW James G. Pappas: Relative to Music and Founders: The Early History of the Langston Hughes Center On View until May 1,2022 at Burchfield Penney Arts 1300 Elmwood

burchfieldpenney.org

Difference Machines: Technology and Identity in Contemporary Art On View until Jan. 16, 2022 Albright-Knox Northland at 612 Northland Ave Albrightknox.org Heather Hart Afrotecture (Re)Collection On View until May 21 2022 UB CFA Gallery 201 Center for the Arts ubartgalleries.buffalo.edu

Ed Bullins, Influential Playwright in Black Arts Movement, Dies Ed Bullins, one of the most significant Black playwrights of the 20th century and a leading voice in the Black Arts. Movement of the 1960’s and 70s, died in his home November 13 in Roxbury Mass. He produced over 100 plays. He was 86.

SUPPORT THE ARTS

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 9,2021

Devastation Dance Company Creates a Positive Wholistic Environment For Young People

By Akua Kamau Harris

O

n Saturday, November 13, I had the distinct honor of being present to witness Devastation Dance company compete in a Majorette Dance Competition hosted

by Damage Dance Crew from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania at Woodland Hills Junior Senior High School in Church Hill, Pennsylvania. It was my first time attending this type of competitive dance. I was there because my granddaughter is a member of Devastation Dance Crew. She is 14 years old.

Having no idea of what Majorette Dance is I looked it up. For those languishing in ignorance like me, Majorette Dancing is high energy, synchronized, rhythmic dance moves that draw from ballet, jazz, modern dance, hip-hop and gymnastics. Devastation won 1st place in Creative Field Show. They were crowned the Overall Grand Champions and were awarded a thousand dollars in prize money. In addition, they won 1st place Senior Trio, 2nd place Junior Stands, and third place Junior Trio.

Recovery IS Possible.

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Devastation's commitment and focus is the wholistic development of every member. I know this personally, because of my greatgranddaughters transformation.

Prior to me urging her mother, my granddaughter, to allow her to join this dance company she was a seriously troubled student. Very smart, but in need of a disciplined outlet for her creativity. She was always dancing and her last move prior to joining Devastation was cartwheels in the classroom during instruction. Naturally, that disrespectful move led to a suspension. I asked her why she would do that knowing there would be consequences and she replied, " I was bored Granny."

Since then we have transferred her to another school. She has been a member of Devastation for over a year. Her attitude, demeanor, and focus has changed tremendously. I am writing this to say, there are many children in our community trapped in educational boredom. This is something, I witness every day, because I work in the Buffalo school district.

It is unfortunate, our educational system has become so boring and incomprehensible that our children are suffering. Parents, they are using the pandemic to keep you from seeing the methodology of what is passing for educational instruction. The methodology and material are killing our children's educational desires. We must define for our children what is best for their educational future and what meets in-depth learning standards. These are the thoughts that entered my brain watching hundreds of our children perform so discipline and joyously congratulating each other's accomplishments.

The Devastation staff: Director Dajion Johnson, Coach Sumer Mc Wilson, Coach Dajanae Johnson, Technical Coach Deja Gwan, Coach Balina Reyes, and the many parents who volunteer are to be commended for creating a wholistic environment for our young people of all ages to thrive and grow.

A Program of The Mental Health Peer Connection, Part of the Western New York Independent Living Family of Agencies

PEACE, LOVE & HAPPY HOLIDAYS

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 9,2021

Emerging from Pandemic Isolation, Youth Artists Lift Their Voices in Showcase of Talent

I

n the Spring of 2020, as the world retreated into lockdowns, a local open mic café teen program, called Can You Hear Me Now, had to shut down its exciting teen talent showcase scheduled for late March of 2020. Many of these teen artists continued to work on their original material in the isolation of the pandemic. Starting in September of 2021 about 25 young people returned to the Gloria J. Parks Community Center on Main Street to share with each other their original rap, rhythms, songs, and dance, and to prepare for a return to the stage.

BILLS JOIN STUDENTS AT GRABIARZ SCHOOL FOR HOLIDAY DINNER. The After School Program at PFC William J Grabiarz School hosted a Thanksgivings Dinner for students , families and staff. To the delight and appreciation for all in attendance, special guests were two star players from the Buffalo Bills football team, Levi Wallace #39 and Jaquan Johnson #46. STREET LEGACY PHOTOS BY DARVIN ADAMS

Hey High School Juniors and Seniors !

Apply to Be a Museum Ambassador at AlbrightKnox Northland!

High school Juniors and Seniors in Western New York have the opportunity to learn about museum education while earning volunteer hours. Students will meet with two of Buffalo’s most influential, charismatic, and insightful artists, Edreys Wajed and Aitina Fareed-Cooke, and Curator of Public Art Aaron Ott as the Museum Ambassadors work on public programs for the In These Truths exhibition. Apply by January 3, 2022 Learn more and apply:

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The work is leading to a fourth annual Can You Hear Me Now? showcase performance on Monday, December 13 at 7:00 p.m. at the Burchfield Penney Arts Center Auditorium, 1300 Elmwood Avenue, next door to Buffalo State College. Tickets will be $10 at the door.

Can You Hear Me Now? is an open mic program that meets Monday evenings and Saturday afternoons to empower young performers to transition from performing covers of commercial songs to developing original poetry, rap, and movement. These young people come from public and charter schools around Buffalo. Although there are a few small venues that have opened in recent years that occasionally accommodate youth under 21 for open mics, there are very few spaces where teens can connect with their peers, while being challenged to deepen and refine their work.

The program is directed by Da’Von McCune, rap artist and owner of D Real McCoy Entertainment and Ashley Watson, a Marriage and Family Counselor, and owner of # Real Talk, a social emotional learning curriculum for youth. Michael Tritto, the Associate Director at Gloria J. Parks Community Center provides administrative support. This adult team creates a safe space for youth to enjoy each other’s company over dinner, while challenging themselves to express what really matters to them through their art forms.

This is not just a youth social outlet. This is an artistic laboratory, a personal development curriculum, and youth café wrapped into one.

Apply to be a Museum Ambassador at AlbrightKnox Northland!

High school juniors and seniors in WNY: Learn about museum education while earning volunteer hours Work with two of Buffalo’s most insightful artists, Edreys Wajed and Aitina Fareed-Cooke, and Curator of Public Art Aaron Ott Plan public programs for In These Truths, an upcoming exhibition at Albright-Knox Northland

Apply by January 3, 2022: albrightknox.org/ museumambassadors

AK Teens is presented by KeyBank in partnership with the First Niagara Foundation.

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 9,2021

"Communities Not Cages"

Buffalo Joins Statewide Movement To Launch New Campaign To Overhaul New York's Racist Sentencing Laws

L

egislators Announced Three New Bills to Reform Sentencing in New York: Eliminate Mandatory Minimums Act, Second Look Act & Earned Time Act. New York – Buffalo joined rallies across the state to announce the launch of a new campaign—Communities Not Cages—and the introduction of three news bills: Eliminate Mandatory Minimums Act, the Second Look Act, and the Earned Time Act. New York State incarcerates over 30,000 people in its prisons every day. Almost 75% of people behind bars are Black or brown, with 98% of convictions from guilty pleas. This is not an accident. Over the past half-century, New York's sentencing laws spiked mass incarceration, building a sentencing regime that funneled hundreds of thousands into cages. New York's sentencing laws are fundamentally racist and unjust. We need investments in communities over long prison sentences to prevent intergenerational harm and dismantle a system of coerced plea deals that replace the constitutional right to trial.

Communities Not Cages is a new statewide campaign building the power of people and families impacted by mass incarceration to overhaul New York's racist and draconian sentencing laws.

The campaign supports three new bills: •Eliminate Mandatory Minimums Act: This bill will eliminate mandatory minimum sentences, including New York's two- and three-strike laws, allowing judges to consider the individual factors. In doing so, this will fully and finally undo the harm of the Rockefeller Drug Law era.

•Second Look Act: The Second Look Act will allow judges to review and reconsider excessive sentences, and allow incarcerated people to apply for a resentencing hearing after they have served 10 years or half of their sentence. *Earned Time Act: Following the federal 1994 Crime Bill, New York State slashed programs for incarcerated people and dramatically limited the time people could earn time off their sentences.

The Earned Time Act will strengthen and expand "good time" and "merit time" laws to encourage personal transformation in prison and reunite families.

"In the year 2022, I would have hoped that we advanced to a society that valued communities over cages because that would mean we value people over profit," said Reverend Denise Walden, Lead Organizer for VOICE Buffalo. "We must challenge our elected officials to invest in the muchneeded community resources and programs, not prisons and jails. We cannot afford to let the government weaponize our tax dollars, using them to destroy lives, families, and communities."

"The Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo and the New York State Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NYSACDL) are committed to the success of the 'Communities Not Cages' campaign.

Only by ending the 'trial penalty' and giving incarcerated individuals pathways to rehabilitation away from the failed system of mass incarceration in New York can we move forward with further reformation of the criminal legal system," said Kevin Stadelmaier, Chief Attorney of the Criminal Defense Unit for the Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo and NYSACDL Board Member and Legislative Committee Chair.

Also speaking in support of the initiative was Masten District Buffalo Common Councilmember Ulysees O. Wingo, Sr.; Tanvier Peart, Director of Policy Advancement for the Partnership for the Public Good and Communities Not Cages Steering Committee Member; John Smith, Lead Street Certified Organizer for VOICE Buffalo; Breyana Clark, WNY Campaigns Manager for VOCAL-NY; Donna Robinson, WNY Organizer for Release Aging People in Prison (RAPP); and University District Buffalo Common Councilmember Rasheed N.C. Wyatt.

"The simple fact is we spend more money to incarcerate a human being at $70,000 per year as opposed to current census data that states New York State spends only $25,000 per year to educate a child," said Councilmember Wyatt. "The inequality shows a stark and clear contrast that we prefer to incarcerate and cage an individual instead of educating them, supporting their economic viability, which can transform poor neighborhoods, decrease the area of concentrated poverty, and provide hope for marginalized communities. We must do much more if we care about changing the plight of Black and Brown people."

Reparations Next?

QUOTE OF

THE WEEK

"...How to bring about change....? The solution is a return to Black politics.

Black politics are not synonymous with the presence of Black politicians, who more often than not are captives of the same interests which create so much suffering.

Politics must be independent of the democrats who continue to be seen as protection against White racism when they are nothing of the sort.”

-Margaret Kimberley

Black Agenda Report Executive Editor and Senior Columnist, Author

NATIONAL Report: Florida's Prison System is Filled With White Supremacist Guards Racist Correctional officers are terrorizing Black prisoners while the state looks the other way.

From the Associated Press:

Caribbean Island of Barbados Cuts Ties with The Queen: Becomes Newest and Youngest Self Governing Republic

B

arbados became the world’s newest and youngest Republic on November 30 at the stroke of midnight, cutting its remaining colonial ties with England almost 400 years after the first English ships arrived at the Caribbean Island.

The historic ceremony, which took place in the capital of Bridgetown, featured a 21-gun salute and remarks by Prince Charles, heir to the British throne. The Prince acknowledged the genocide and transatlantic enslavement of Black people was a terrible thing, referring to it as the “appalling atrocity of slavery,” and the period during which it existed, the “darkest days of our past.”

It was exactly that brutal history in Barbados and other Caribbean islands, which Prince Charles has admitted to - but neither him nor the British government has apologize for - which has spurred calls for reparations from the UK. Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley has created a whole arm in the government to deal with that issue, called the Barbados government’s National Task Force on Reparations.

She said at a Caricom meeting last summer: “For us, reparations is not just simply about money […] but it is also about justice […] I do not know how we can go further unless there is a reckoning first and foremost.”

-First PresidentWith the Queen of England no longer the Head of State, Governor-General Sandra Mason, a 73-year-old former jurist and the Queen's own former representative, will now lead the country. Ms. Mason was sworn in as Barbados’s first president at the historic ceremony. She was elected last month by a joint session of the coutry’s House of Assembly and Senate.

“The time has come to fully leave our colonial past behind,” said Mason, “Barbadians want a Barbadian head of state.”

Experts say Barabados’ move may spur the change in other commonwealth countries especially Jamaica, where support for breaking away from the monarchy is popular.

From Aljazeera: An island of nearly 300,000 people, Barbados gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1966.

The country had been under British control since the 1620s, as British settlers turned it into a sugar colony dependent on the labour of thousands of enslaved Africans until emancipation in 1834.

An island of nearly 300,000 people, Barbados gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1966.

“This has been a long process,” said independent political analyst Kevon Edey. “Barbados has been looking to go for full sovereignty even back at independence.”

The country had been under British control since the 1620s, as British settlers turned it into a sugar colony dependent on the labor of thousands of enslaved Africans until emancipation in 1834.

Echoing the sentiment of the jubilant population, a 60-yearold who sells oranges in the city centre told Reuters News: “We are on our own now with no king or queen from England …

Some Florida prison guards openly tout associations with white supremacist groups to intimidate inmates and Black colleagues, a persistent practice that often goes unpunished, according to allegations in public documents and interviews with a dozen inmates and current and former employees in the nation’s third-largest prison system.

Corrections officials regularly receive reports about guards’ membership in the Ku Klux Klan and criminal gangs, according to former prison inspectors, and current This is the full drop after independence.” and former officers.

SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES! FROM LEFT: The prime minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, cricket legend Sir Garfield Sobers, the president of Barbados, Dame Sandra Mason, and Rihanna, at Heroes Square on November 30.

VOICES

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 9,2021

You Don’t Have Time for Your Purpose?

'Above all to thine own self be true…'

A

lesson I've learned is that people make time for what is important to them.

Too many people lie to themselves when they say, “I don’t have time to work toward my real purpose in life.” Then they make choices every day on what seems important for them to focus on.

For example- The average person spends two hours a day on social media.

Adding those two hours up means monthly that person spends 60 hours on social media sites. Now multiply 60 hours by 12 months and you have 720 hours. 720 Hours equals 30 full days. This means the average person spends 30 days a year watching other peoples' lives on social media!

Those 30 days a year would do a hell of a lot towards you reaching your dream goal.

With those two hours a day you could learn a new language, start work on that nonprofit you've been talking about or find funding to launch your dream business, there is so much you could achieve if you prioritized your time.

You don't spend time on social media, how about watching sports? Now I’m a big time Alabama football fan (Roll Tide). But consider each game is four hours long. That means each month during football season I've spent a minimum of 16 hours watching two teams living out their dreams. Well, what if I spent 16 hours working on my own dreams? What if I chose instead to spend 16 hours reading, studying, or practicing my speeches etc. How much closer to my dream would I be?

Do you see what I'm saying? When you look at your life and you aren’t where you want to be or you feel trapped, don't look at your environment - look in the mirror. You are the problem, and you are the solution. You must make the decision that you are going to prioritize your goals, make a plan and then work that plan.

You have more than enough time to achieve the life you want, more than enough time to get on a path towards greatness. But you have to prioritize YOURSELF and do the work.

DEAR EDITOR

The Outer Harbor Is Now The Best Site For A New Multi-Use Stadium Complex Dear Editor: The Buffalo News recently reported that Congressman Brian Higgins Plans to improve access to the waterfront with $189.5 million dollars now catapults the outer harbor land site as the ideal land site for a new multi-use stadium. This land site was long named as the best site for a future stadium by HKS inc. back in 2012 but was rejected for assorted reasons. One of the excuses was the cost needed to improve infrastructure would be too much. Well, you would be receiving $189.5 million from the federal government which reduces the needed funding for infrastructure which includes lengthening the metro light rail line for starts by ¾ of a mile and now you have light rail to your stadium site which reduces the traffic flow to and from.

There is no land acquisition because the land is publicly owned.

The arguments for another viable site are truly falling by the wayside with this huge announcement by Congressman Brian Higgins which would be a game changer for this region, and Southern Ontario. The Perry site is burdened with a plethora of legal encumbrances and is not workable with the time available to make this project work. The preliminary work has already been completed making the Outer Harbor as the best site for a multiuse stadium complex located in the city of Buffalo New York. This could be an historic game changer if the authorities do the right thing. The stadium needs to be built on the Outer Harbor land site, it is that plain and simple. I am asking all that want real change in our region to support this proposal.

Patrick Freeman, The Mighty O’Ba

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

15

Vacant City Owned Lots We Can’t Buy and Rental Unit “Boxes” We Don’t Own What This Community Needs Is Private-Owned Affordable Housing!

O

ver the past decade, we have built many rental units in the city but very few, new builds,

private-owned affordable housing.

There is no mortgage, deed or personal investment in those rental units. No investment means no stake or equity in the long term development of one's community! When the rent becomes too high or the tenant becomes ill or unemployed, guess who will be evicted and homeless?

I long for those bygone days when elected officials and the community leaders promoted private, home ownership, giving middle class residents a chance to buy or build a home in Buffalo. Look at the houses on Pratt, Hickory, Davis and Walnut St. Most of them are brick, well built and owned by African Americans. This was Buffalo's heyday for minorities on the Eastside and I shudder to compare that progress in private homeownership to the big box, rental units they are now warehousing people in,all across the east side.

Instead of selling vacant lots to eastside residents to build one or two family homes, the city administration is giving or selling the lots to developers to build 80, 90 or larger rental structures on streets that used to be filled with single or double houses of proud homeowners and their tenants.

And speaking of vacant lots, why is it so hard to purchase one? There are hundreds of them in our community and yet the city is land banking most of them! The question is: why? And for whom?

I have to say that former Buffalo Mayor Jimmy Griffin, as controversial as he was, did much to promote homeownership, especially in the old 1st Ward and in South Buffalo where the infamous Hickory Woods housing development is located. Many of the homes in the Ellicott District were built when Griffin was a city council member and that area near the 1st Ward was in his district.

Anyone pushing the building of rental units over homeownership is using the same playbook that those who want to displace African Americans from our own community are using! The immigrants who are settling in Buffalo are buying homes. They are not using their section 8 or their personal money paying rent that gives no return on their monetary investment. There are 'Cash for your house' signs on almost every eastside street. Out of town investors are sending post cards and phone calls trying to separate the homeowner from the house he is still living in!

Some of those who call or visit the homes of some of our senior citizens are very forceful and are threatening and harassing the homeowner. This should not be happening in a city that has self-described itself as the “City of Good Neighbors!"

This failure of the current and next administration to promote homeownership will be documented, not by beautiful, well- kept houses and apartments owned by eastside Blacks; but by parents whose only legacy and inheritance to their children and grandchildren is a dresser drawer full of rent receipts that are not even worth the paper and ink used to write them! (Betty Jean Grant is founder of We Are Women Warriors)

An Expression of Gratitude... By

Darvin Adams

As the year comes to a close, 2021 marks the second holiday season that I’ll celebrate without my dad, my uncle and a good brother/friend.

Although I miss them, I have plenty to be thankful for. I first want to give all Praises and appreciation to our Heavenly Parent for blessing me with the courage and opportunity to go out and photograph the struggle. Secondly, I would like to give much appreciation and love to Alnisa Banks, owner of the Challenger News, for giving me the platform to allow the world to view my images of Buffalo. I must also give a shout out to community activist Betty Jean Grant. On two separate occasions, Ms. Grant offered to me assistance and gently refused being compensated. Thank you again Sister Betty Jean!

Also I have much appreciation for Nate Boyd, Cariol Horne, QueeNia AsheeMa’at, John Walker, John Walker Jr. and Darryl Boyd. Working with these brothers and sisters and photographing their struggles has been truly educational and rewarding. Nate, your community activism is outstanding and greatly appreciated. Cariol and QueeNia , your efforts and diligence in helping to get Cariols law passed and, along with Betty Jean Grant, Sherry Sherrill and others whose support to have the Buffalo 5 exonerated is to be applauded. John Walker and John Walker Jr. and Darryl Boyd thank you for allowing me to be a part of your families and a part of your struggle and ultimate victorious exoneration.

Last but not least Rodney Wilkerson, firefighter. Thanks my brother for keeping me posted to events surrounding the India Walton campaign. Thank you India and staff for allowing me the honor to photograph/chronicle your historic journey. To all of you and to the many other people I had the privilege of photographing, the success that I feel as a photographer, I contribute to you and I am forever grateful.

These cameras do more than snap photos, they help me heal, one smile at a time!

I’m Just Saying…

16

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 9,2021

Assistant Professor(Electrical)

EMPLOYMENT

Buffalo State is, State University of New York, seeks candidates for the position of Assistant Professor.

For a full job description and to apply:

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Dr. Ansari

FIGHT FOR GOOD continued from page 4

other. Through community education, we began to see rays of light break through the darkness in the form of fast-track vaccines and lifesaving treatments. Although the bombardment of misinformation was a significant obstacle in giving vaccines to communities of color, we did not give up on finding creative ways to vaccinate. Ultimately, I believe our answers lie within our collective selves,” she continued.

LOVELY FAREWELL continued from page 2

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

Assistant Professor

Buffalo State, State University of New York, seeks candidates for the position of Assistant Professor.

www.workforcebuffalo.org

Buffalo State, State University of New York, seeks candidates for the position of Maintanance Manager.

For a full job description and to apply: https://jobs.buffalostate.edu/postings/5795

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with your job searching needs.

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

For a full job description and to apply:

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

The New York State Police Hiring The NYS Police Department is hiring. Starting salary $58,443 - $82,677 after one year. Full benefits and retirement. Minimum test requirements: US citizen 20 years old, High School diploma/GED. Go to Joiinstatepolicie.ny.gov

tradition employed by previous Mayors, including William A. Johnson Jr. and Robert Duffy, the thematic elements of the Warren Administration achievements LEGAL NOTICE Bid have been recorded for posterity in a single book, “A ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS ERIE COUNTY SEWER Lovely Legacy: Belief Made DISTRICT NO. 3 Real,” distributed to City liSOUTHTOWNS INCINERATOR braries and R-Centers.

TRAY SCRUBBER REPLACEMENT AND CRANE “I hope you will read this INSTALLATION when you are my age, when CONTRACT NO. 68 you are an adult and you NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that have children of your own,” sealed proposals for the above referenced contracts will be received Mayor Warren said in her by the Commissioner of the Erie address directed to Taylor County Department of Environment Planning (ECDEP) on January and Rochester’s children. and 13, 2022 until 1:00 P.M., local time, at “Because I think history will 95 Franklin Street, Room 1034, BufNew York, 14202, at which time show that this is when Roch- falo, they will be publicly opened and read ester made its good better; aloud in Room 1004.

The nature of the work includes and its better best. When and installation of air pollution its first woman Mayor de- supply control equipment and associated cided to manage our city for drainage, supply and installation of stainless steel ventilation stack, growth instead of decline.” astructural work involving concrete

Mayor Warren also encouraged the children to remain vigilant as “beacons of hope” and resist the temptations of division and anger that are becoming increasingly prevalent in Rochester and across the nation. She closed with a stanza from a poem her father gave her when she was Taylor’s age: “Don’t Quit,” by Edgar Guest.

“So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit,” she said.

“It's when things seem worst that you mustn't quit.”

To view the Mayor’s address and find a copy of “A Lovely Legacy: Belief Made Real” visitwww.cityofrochester.gov/ALovelyLegacy.

BETC 716-856-5627

Associate Facilities Program Coordinator (Maintenance Manager)

and steel, supply and installation of a JIB Crane, and other associated work.

Prospective bidders are encouraged to attend a pre-bid meeting for the construction of this project scheduled for 2:00 P.M. on December 16, 2021 at the project location Southtowns Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility, S-3690 Lake Shore Road, Hamburg, NY 14219.

Additional information and bid documents can be found at: http://www3. erie.gov/dsm.

BY ORDER OF: Joseph Fiegl, P.E., BCEE Deputy Commissioner, ECDEP Dated: December 2, 2021 Published: December 8, 2021

LEGAL NOTICE Bid COUNTY OF ERIE ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Buffalo Niagara Convention Center Façade and Entry Improvements (REBID) PROJECT NO. 2021-818-01 Sealed bids for Plumbing Construction work for above project will be received by County’s Commissioner of Public Works in Suite 1400 of the Rath County Office Building, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York 14202 until 2:30 PM local time on Thursday, December 16, 2021, at which time they will be opened and read aloud. MBE/WBE, Apprenticeship program, and Local & Disadvantaged Workforce requirements may apply to this project. Additional information must be found at: www. erie.gov/dpw. . Attention is called to COVID bid procedures on the County’s website.

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NAME CHANGE

Notice is hereby given that an order entered by the Supreme Court, Erie County, on the 16th day of November 2021, bearing Index Number 2021/600400, a copy of which may be examined at the office of the clerk, located at 92 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY grants me the right to assume the name of Layla Robinson. The city and state of my present address are Buffalo, NY, the month and year of my birth are November, 1995; the place of my birth is Buffalo, NY; my present name is Melissa Ann Robinson.

To advertise inquire at: advertising@thechallengernews.com

The Pike Company and LECESSE Construction actively encourage participation from M / WBE certified firms.

Contact Kathy Rooney, Diversity & Community Engagement Manager, to discuss potential opportunities.

1.800.264.7453 | www.thepikecompanies.com | info@pikecos.com

17

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 9,2021

EMPLOYMENT

MOBILE UNIT MEDICAL ASSISTANT

Health Homes Care Coordinator Help enroll consumers in a Health Home. Help decrease costs of consumers being Served in a Health Home.

Bachelor’s & 5 yrs exp. Req. Resume and Cover letter to WNYIL Inc 3108 Main St Buffalo NY 14214 employment@wnyil.org EEOC Adult Behavioral Health HCBS & CORE Coordinator Supervise, develop and enhance the HCBS & CORE services.

4 yrs exp in behavioral health and 3 yrs of supervisory exp.

Resume and cover letter to WNYIL, Inc 3108 Main St Buffalo NY 14214 employment@wnyil.org EEOC

Account Receivable Accountant

Assist with accounts receivable & Entries related to billing & resolutions To Medicaid eligibility & authorizations.

Bachelors preferred. Exp with QuickBooks req. Send resume and cover letter to WNYIL, Inc 3108 Main St Buffalo NY 14214 employment@wnyil.org EEOC

Change Lives, Starting With Your Own

“Having the ability to make real change not only in someone’s life but in the community is the real superpower.

Being able to be a support for those in all walks of life and encourage them to be a better version of themselves.

Consider applying for one of the open positions is a start to the end.”

— Shamecca DeJarnette, Clinician

Spectrum Health is hiring for clinical and administrative positions across our agency. We offer competitive salaries, an industry-leading benefit package, and the opportunity to make a difference.

Apply today at shswny.org/careers

Greater Buffalo United Community Based Organization

FOR MORE INFO CONTACT DAWN SCOTT AT 716-380-6467.

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE Bid

To advertise inquire at: advertising@ thechallengernews.com

We’re here for you 24/7 716-539-5500

Buffalo City School District Request for Information The following procurement opportunities shall be posted at: https://buffaloschools.bonfirehub. com/portal 22-028 Vendor Certification Status and Distribution List Opt-In Jennifer LoTempio Director of Purchase

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS ERIE COUNTY SEWER DISTRICT NO. 8 EAST AURORA WATER RESOURCE RECOVERY FACILITY CONTROL BUILDING IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT CONTRACT NOS. 21-A, 21-B, 21-C and 21-D 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 LEGAL NOTICE Planning (ECDEP) on January 12, 2022 until 10:00 A.M., local time, at INVITATION TO BID 95 Franklin Street, Room 1034, BufThe NFTA is soliciting bids for falo, New York, 14202, at which time Project No. 12BA2002 they will be publicly opened and read aloud in Room 1004.

BNIA - Rehabilitate and The nature of the work includes Reconstruct Runway 5-23 Bid No. E574 due on Jan 11th, General Construction of interior demolition, interior construction of 2022 at 2pm. walls, floors and ceilings, doors inWebsite for information: cluding overhead garage door, and www.nftaengineering.com furniture and equipment; HVAC Construction of existing boiler heat removals and new boiler heat, enLEGAL NOTICE ergy recovery unit, heat pumps, and ventilation; Plumbing Construction NFTA Procurement of interior removals, water systems, Invitation to Bid wastewater systems, and bathroom and laboratory plumbing fixtures; 210068 - AIRPORT Electrical Construction of interior reWINDOW WASHING movals, interior electrical and control CONTRACT systems, fiberoptic and other buried Download Bids from cables between buildings, lighting, and electrical and control cabinets. www.nfta.com Additional information and bid documents can be found at: http://www3. erie.gov/dsm.

To advertise

BY ORDER OF: inquire at: Joseph Fiegl, P.E., BCEE advertising@ Deputy Commissioner, ECDEP thechallengDated: December 2, 2021 ernews.com Published: December 8, 2021

To Advertise, Email: advertising@thechallengernews.com

18

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 9,2021

NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS

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The Buffalo Zoo Lights A light show, Christmas music and a visit with Santa at Buffalo Zoo 300 Parkside avenue for month of December from 5:30 – 9:30 pm Go to buffalozoo.org for more info.

B I L L S before boarding a plane and heading to Tampa Bay to face the one and only Tom Brady and company - a team that can pass the ball and has a very strong running game. But due to Bucs injuries in their secondary I’m still betting on the Bills to pull an upset 38 -34 in a thriller. It’s a MUST win game for Bills or this season will truly spiral out

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 9,2021

EVENTS CALENDAR

SAT. DEC. 11 Umoja has announced the Convening of the Elders 2021, on Saturday December 11 at 1423 Fillmore Avenue from 2-6 p.m. Samuel L. Radford host .

FULL MOON WATCH

Dr. Eva Doyle will hold a book signing for her new book Eye On History, The Golden Collection - Lost History, Forgotten History Saturday, December 11 at the Merriweather Library from 3 to 4 p.m. Also on December 18 at the Golden Cup, 1323 Jefferson at East Utica Street from 1 to 3 p.m.

December’s Full Moon, the last full moon of the year, also called The Cold Moon, occurs on Saturday, December 18 and is filled with blessings from The Divine.

So take some time to stop in the midst of the chaos of the holidays and appreciate all MON. DEC. 13 of the spiritual blessings that Hustle for Health Urban are coming to us at this time. Line Dance Fitness with at •The Full Moon Is A Good Gloria Parks Community Time To Set Your Intentions Center 3242 Main St., BufFor The Next Year. falo. 12pm - 1pm. FREE •Think about what it is you for ages 55+ Visit HustleAaron Hudson really would like to ac11Nov 1974- January 1993 complish in the next twelve for Health.com to RSVP Boatswain Mate Petty months.

TUES. DEC.14 Officer 2nd Class •Write it out in a journal and U.S.S. Constitution update it throughout the year. Line Dance Classes With Boston Mass.

•Make a vision board so you Ms. Foxie, Martha MitchActive Reserves have a visual of what it is ell Center, 165 Oakmont U.S.S. Semmes DD-18 (Langfield) Tuesdays 6-7 you want to achieve.

Charleston SC. •Take time to thank The Cre- p.m. (716)833-1038. ator, all that is Divine and your Ancestors for another WED. DEC. 15 year.

Hustle for Health Urban The Full Cold Moon is a Line Dancing at Gloria time of rebirth. Your head Parks Community Center will be busy during this time, 3242 Main St., Buffalo. which will bring you feelings 11am- 12pm. FREE for of either giddiness or anxi- ages 55+ 716 832-1010 x ety. Embrace and confront 211 to RSVP these feelings, as now is the best time to recognize what 19th Annual Tee of Life African Consciousness Workshop makes you feel this way.

Clean and shine the dia- Ceremony, 6 p.m. Dec. 15 Every Monday 4-6pm, mond of your soul and let Community Health Center Merriweather Library, 1324 that light shine before every- of buffalo, 34 Benwood AvJefferson Avenue. “Where one, so that people wonder as enue, gathering of families we learn About Our Glori- you pass by-what it was that of homicide and Covid-19 to remember their loved ones. ous Past & Present African just touched their soul.

Masks required. VacThis is a wonderful time of Family.” (716)400-8644 or year and definitely the time Free. cination appointments availkmtfllix@gmailcom to send out your dreams to able. For info Karla Thomas the universe. By doing this or Lisa Parker @ (716)986you will see the growth of 9199 ext. 6004. what you have put out come Public Meeting Notice: Cherokee Billie 431 Ellicott is every Friday springtime.

There will be a meeting of and Saturday from 12 -6pm the Board of the Westmin(Note: Practice forgiveness, featuring art, apparel jewelry ster Community Charto release any lingering enand more by Edreys and Alter School on Wednesday, ergy from this year; embrace exa Wajed. Ends Dec. 24.go Dec.15, at Noon. The meetpeace and love. to eatoffart.com for info. ing will be held at M&T (The next full moon is Janu- Bank, One M&T Plaza Locust Street Art’s 2nd ary 17, 2022, Martin Luther - 19th Floor, Buffalo, NY 14203.

King Day.) Annual Holiday Market

EAT OFF ART POP UP

Locust Street Art’s 2nd Annual Holiday Market Dec. 9th - 1-6:30pm; Dec 10th Closed; Dec. 11th - 1-4pm www.locuststreetart.org www.locuststreetart.org/holidaymarket

peace

THURS. DEC.16 Line Dance Classes With Ms. Foxie, Schiller Park Center, 2057 Genesee St. on Thursdays 10:3011:30 ages 60 and over.

(716)895-2727.

19

FIND your NEW CArEEr

Landscape Maintenance technician A proG rAm b y

GOODNESS presents The Butterfly Collection Art Exhibit on December 10 8p.m.

-11p.m. at the Juice Lounge, 2234 Genesee St.There will be poetry and Open Mic , light refreshments served brought to you by NMYDNA365

Mayor’s Annual Toy Drive The Mayor’s Annual Toy Drive, with contactless, drive-through drop-off will take place on December 16 on the steps of Buffalo City Hal from 3-6 p.m. where Buffalo residents and businesses can drop-off new, unwrapped toys and gift cards for children and teens. Individuals and businesses interested in donating a large quantity of gift or large toys, like bicycles, can arrange for pick-up by calling PAL offices at (716) 851-4615, or emailing PAL at buffalopoliceathleticleague@city-buffalo.com.

IN p ArT NE rS H Ip WIT H

Apply by DECEmbEr 17, 2021:

www.bufcat.org/apply-now Classes start January 11, 2022. For any inquiries, email Darren Saxon: Saxon@bufcat.org

TALK PRO P L U S Hosted by

The Radman

(George Radney) &

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105.5 FM “The Beat” Rochester Every Saturday 7AM – 8AM “Taking you to the locker room and beyond!”

TO ADVERTISE: advertising@thechallengernews.com

20

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 9,2021