Challenger Community News December 20, 2017

W I S H I N G O U R R E A D E R S P E A C E , L O V E & P R O S P E R I T Y T H I S H O L I D AY S E A S O N !

Photo by Ronnie Tillman /Made In Your Image Photography

December 20, 2017 | FREE

Page 10

Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor Hosts a “Soulful Christmas” Page 3

LOCAL

Peoples-Stokes Announces Grant Winners Page 3

HERO

95-Year-old Vet Receives Hero’s Welcome in Two Countries Page 7

Page 4, 5

SPEAKER

Founder of Million Woman’s March to Speak at Kwanzaa Page 10

PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID BUFFALO, N.Y. PERMIT NO. 164

2

INSIDE ROCHESTER

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 20, 2017

There’s a BlackSanta Claus Inside the Mall at Greece Ridge in Rochester

See us for all your Holiday Cheeses!

• Special holiday cheeses • Custom cheese boards • Imported cheeses • Aged Cheddars

By: Rashad J. Smith

First Night will be held at the Baobab Cultural Center.

Rochester Announces 2017 Kwanzaa Locations Kwanzaa means “first fruits of the harvest,” it is a time to celebrate African American people, our ancestors and our culture. We seek to honor our past, evaluate our present and commit ourselves to a more productive future. Africans and AfricanAmericans of all religious faiths and backgrounds celebrate Kwanzaa.

Kwanzaa 2017 Locations •Umoja (Unity) December 26 Baobab Cultural Center 728 University Ave 6-9pm •Kujichagulia (Self determination) December 27 Memorial Art Gallery 500 University Ave noon – 5pm •Ujima (Collective work and responsibility) December 28 Wheatley Library 33 McCree Way 2-5pm •Ujamaa ( Cooperative economics) December 29 Rochester Museum Science Center 657 East Ave 2-5pm •Nia (Purpose) December 30 Gannt R Center 700 North St. 2-5pm •Kuumba (Creativity) December 31 Memorial AME Zion Church 549 Clarissa Street 6-9pm ªImani (Faith) January 1,2018 Celebrate at home with loved ones FIRST COMMUNITY INTERFAITH INSTITUTE INC.'s FINAL WEEK OF KWANZAA First Fruits at First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. will end with the beginning of Kwanzaa according to Dr. Maulana Karenga. On Tuesday, December 26,2017 at 6 PM, the Institute will feature a lecture by Minister Lawrance Lee Evans titled "Reducing Inferiority by Promoting Unity." First Community Interfaith Institute Inc.is located at 219 Hamilton Street, Rochester NY.The highlight of the seven day Kwanzaa observance will be the Kwanzaa Feast, to be held on January 1, 2018 at the auditorium of St. Johns Home, 150 Highland Avenue, Rochester NY.

Open Sundays December 3, 10 ,17 ,& 24 at Public Market

Soul Santa is a bit different than America’s traditional Santa Claus as seen on TV or in malls around the country. To begin, he’s an African American man who’s in-tune with what’s happening in urban communities because it’s the life he lives. No, Soul Santa doesn’t come from the North Pole, in fact, he comes from the same type of neighborhood of the children and families he wishes to inspire.

He understands the importance of his role as a positive symbol presented to a culture that has been saturated with the single image of Santa Claus as a white man delivering gifts to the entire world.

Henry M. Phelps Jr. is known in the Rochester community as “Big Hank”. For the past 15 years, Big Hank has volunteered at a number of community events—stepping into the big velvet suit to transform into Rochester’s Soul Santa.

Big Hank believes his presence as an African American Santa Claus provides children and families in his community a chance to smile during the holidays and put aside some of the stressors during the holiday season.

“There’s nothing like seeing the kids in my community smile during the holiday season,” said Big Hank. “I have been doing this for so long because I enjoy the opportunity to bring a smile to the many faces that are probably facing many obstacles.”

Is the traditional perception of Santa Claus a reality for children of color throughout America’s urban communities realistic? Christopher “GoodKnews” Cardwell, celebrity photographer with a popular photography studio in Rochester, doesn’t believe so. Since 2012, Goodknews has partnered with Big Hank to host photo sessions for children and families in Rochester urban neighborhoods. After hearing a common complaint from his customers about wanting to take holiday photos with an African American Santa, GoodKnews decided to partner with Big Hank to address his clients’ needs and to enhance the work Big Hank has done for years.

“There’s something about the symbolism behind hav-

WHOLLY

CHEESES FAMILY MATTERS! Because family is critically important on Friday December 8th I coordinated the first annual Secret Santa SisterGurl Christmas Gift Exchange Holiday Social held at Fushio where the food and the establishment exceed my expectations.We pulled names, we passed out gifts, we ate, we took pictures, we laughed, we danced, we dressed red, glitter and in the Christmas spirit; we just simply enjoyed each other's company and had loads of fun! Kecia L McCullough

and VarietSyimplyVDalue ivine t ’s Th a

Bring this ad, get 10% off!

Rochester Public Market Shed B3 Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday SPECIAL HOLIDAY MARKET Sunday 12/10 & 12/17, 9a-3p whollypublicmarket@gmail.com

ing an African American Santa Claus represent the man making contributions to their homes and communities of color throughout the nation,” said GoodKnews. “Soul Santa provides children and families of color a chance to see a symbol of hope that actually looks like them and is as realistic as possible.”

For the past 5 years, Good-

Continued Page 13

expo&fair ROCHESTER CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

GRADES PRE-K TO 12

E XPLO RATION AND REGISTRATION Explore

Learn

Connect

Register

Explore options for students from Pre-K to 12

Learn about the Path Forward Plan and Literacy for a Lifetime

Parent University: Helping Parents, Helping Children

Register on-site for Pre-K and Kindergarten

Saturday, January 20, 2018 • 10 am to 2 pm MCC Downtown Campus 321 State Street 1st-4th floors Free Parking • Student Performances • Fun Activities

3

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 20,, 2017

AREA BRIEFS

Peoples-Stokes Announces Grant Winners from 141st District

Grand total of $68.8 million awarded to 112 Projects throughout WNY

Services Set for Mrs. Mesiah Ulrica A. Mesiah, beloved wife of Frank Mesiah, peacefully transitioned Dec. 17.

Services will be held Saturday, December 23 at St. John Baptist Church, 184 Goodell Street. Visitation 12 Noon 2 p.m. Funeral Service at 2 p.m. Entombment at Ascension Chapel Mausoleum at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Kenmore, NY. Reverend James A. Lews III Officiating. Arrangements by Thomas T. Edwards Funeral Home.

Free Wi-Fi Comes to Jefferson Avenue Mayor Byron Brown has announced that free public Wi-Fi will be available for businessmen and residents on Jefferson Avenue between East Ferry and East Utica streets starting in January. The service, called “JEFFREE Wi-Fi” will be provided by Blue Wireless.

“This will be a great asset for businesses and residences along Jefferson Avenue,” he said. “JEFFREE Wi-Fi will continue the build up and massive investments we are planning to make on Jefferson Avenue.” The announcement was made Monday at the Beverly Gray Exchange Center at 224E. Utica near Jefferson. He was joined by Council President Darius Pridgen, Masten District Council Member Ulysees O. Wingo, Sr., Brian Gelfand, the President of Blue Wireless, small business owners and residents.

Dr. King

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Oratorical Contest Announced for High School Juniors and Seniors The annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Oratorical Contest for high school juniors and seniors will be held on January 20 from 3-5p.m. at the St. John Baptist Church Family Life Center, 833 Michigan Avenue. Participating students will address the following topic: “What would Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Say About The NFL Players and Others Protesting During the National Anthem?” The first place winner will receive $250; 2nd place, $100 and 3rd place, $50. Persons interested in taking part in the contest should contact Duncan Kirkwood for more information at (716) 308-0506 by January 4.The event is being sponsored in part by Humanities New York, Alpha Phi Alpha Rho Lambda Chapter, the Buffalo Chapter NCCCP and The Challenger Community News.

Vendor Applications for Kwanzaa Vendor applications for Kwanzaa are available by contacting Sis. Willa Dean Harrell at Saibo African Imports, 81 Allen Street, 5418610 Monday thru Saturday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Buffalo, NY — On Friday, December 15th Assembly Member Crystal Peoples-Stokes announced the 20 winners located in the 141st Assembly District of approved grants from Round 7 of the Western New York Regional Economic Development Council (REDC). The awards, originally announced on Wednesday, December 13th in Albany by Governor Cuomo, include a total of $68.8 million awarded to 112 projects throughout the Western New York region.

“Congratulations to all of this year’s awards recipients. Thank you for the work that you continue to do on the frontlines to move the City of Buffalo and the region forward. I’m proud to announce the levels of talent, creativity, expertise and innovation that can be found here in the 141st District. May you all have continued success and prosperity into the new year,” stated Assemblywoman Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes.

A listing of the grants winners include the African American Cultural Center for $600,000.

The African American Center of Buffalo will renovate an existing facility to expand its theater, educational programming and teaching facilities on the East Side and create an Urban Cultural Campus of multi-cultural understanding and community collaboration.

Additional grants went to: Buffalo Employment & Training Center - $91,000; Buffalo Society of Natural Sciences (Science Museum) - $85,500; Catholic Health Systems - $6,397; Center for Employment OpLegislator Peoples-Stokes portunities - $100,000; Central Terminal Restoration Corporation- $314,625; City of Buffalo – Broadway Market - $120,000; Erie Community College - $100,000; Explore & More Children’s Museum - $75,000; Gerard Place - $435,000; Industrial Support Inc. - $240,000; Just Buffalo Literary Center - $73,000; Industrial Support Inc. - $240,000; Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority - $400,000; NYSARC Inc, Erie County Chapter (Heritage Centers) - $15,985; Roswell Park Cancer Institute - $ 1,000,000; Salvation Army- $100,000; Torn Space Theatre - $60,000; University at Buffalo (Center for Computational Research) - $1,000,000; WNY Book Arts Collaboration - $44,700; Assemblywoman Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes represents the New York State Assembly’s 141st District. The district includes sections of North Buffalo, Allentown, Larkinville, and the downtown central business district, and the entire East side of Buffalo. More information on the 141st district and the Assemblywoman can be found at http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/Crystal-D-Peoples-Stokes.

Arab American Business Association to Host Holiday Food Giveaway”

A

free food giveaway, sponsored by The Arab American Business Association of Western New York, (AABA) will take place on Saturday, December 23 from 1 – 4 pm at the Martha Mitchell Community Center, 175 Oakmont Street in Buffalo.

This event will be held in conjunction with the Centers’ “Annual Winter Wonderland Celebration” to benefit needy families in the city of Buffalo, by assisting them this Christmas with a “family size turkey, and a food gift certificate” redeemable at one of our conveniently located community food stores operated by several of the Associations’ members.

As supplies are limited, you must pre-register to receive the free turkey and food certificate by contacting Ms. Bernadine Kennedy, the Association’s Community Liaison at 716-247-1036, as soon as possible.

There is no need to register for the “party.” Everyone is welcome to attend. The party will feature free pictures with Santa for the children, good food, and other holiday surprises.

On behalf of the Martha Mitchell Center’s executive Director, Rev. Albert Wilson his staff, and the 90-member stores of AABA, we look forward to seeing all of you on Saturday, December 23, at their Winter Wonderland Event, and we wish all of you Happy Holidays and a Blessed New Year.

Richard Allen

The Year 1787

By James Reid

During the first Constitutional Convention of 1787 in Philadelphia, PA, another convention was taking place, and it was to determine the fate of Africans/ Kemetic people in the 13 colonies.

George Washington led one convention;Ben Bannaker led the other. One White; one Black. One for a free country, the other for enslaved people.

Washington and all the continental delegates argued over the system of government and who should have a say. Even if you fought in the war of 1776 that did not guarantee rights or freedom, the convention was called to answer all these questions.

On the other hand Ben Bannaker and three other men, Prince Hall, Absalon Jones and the child genius, Richard Allen called a meeting at St. George’s Episcopal Church. It was set there because Absalon Jones and the young Richard Allen had worked and raised money to expand the church for all the new African members. That Sunday, after the whole congregation had settled into morning prayers the entire African congregation was thrown out of the church.

Allen, the young bull vowed he would never enter that church again. So the meeting took place later that Sunday afternoon and the four men came up with ideas that would set the policy for the existence of African resistance to the slave laws in America.

First, Prince Hall decided that African people should have their own Masonic Orde Continued Page 13

4

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 20, 2017

S h o p p e r ’s G u i d e & B u s i n e s s D i re c to r y

Buying Black In Buffalo : For The Holidays And Beyond!

O

BEN’S Downtown Tires

ur 2017 “Buying Black In Buffalo" feature is designed to promote Black business and encourage our readers to spend as much as they can with African American entrepreneurs - not only during the holiday season, but throughout the year. According to a new Nielson report the total Black spending power is expected to hit a record $1.5 trillion by 2021. Recycling some of that money back into Black owned businesses is just plain good, economic sense! Our Buying Black listing features some really great and unique gift ideas! Let’s be the change we want to see! Buy Black first this holiday season and throughout the year! Support your local entrepreneur!

Spotlight: Ansar Fragrances

Located at 50 Sycamore corner of Elm, offers new and used tires for that special someone! Gift cards are available 856-1066 or 894-1483

Zandra Beauty Natural Skin Care

Doris Records

Over 50 years serving all the com­ munity's music needs!

Lots of other great buys as well including cloth­ing, caps, purses and more! 286 E. Ferry St. 883-2410

African Market

224 Elmwood (in plaza next to Price Rite), Designs by Dovi and girls, African fabrics, bas­ ket, jewelry, Shea Butter, Gift items from Africa and more, plus food items. Hours: Mon­ Sat ll a.m. -7 p.m. 882-1424

Our World Boutique

863 E Ferry: this amazing shop goes way beyond cards.

Great gift ideas. Open Monday thru Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. up until Christmas Day when its open till noon!

903-0449 (Good idea to call first)

Privileged

Privileged is one of Walden Galleria Mall's newest stores specializing in the latest cutting edge trends for women at affordable prices from LA, NY and Europe. Store hours are 10am -9:30pm Monday through Sunday. The store is located on the 2nd level next to DSW. Each Wednesday is their “Working Women Wednesday” where you can find 10-25% off select Items.

Find them on FB and Instagram @privgalleriamall

1382 Jefferson (across from Jim Bell Cleaners); one of best selections of Afro-centric books and information in Upstate New York; formerly Harambee Books, great gift ideas Open Wednesday, Friday & Saturday 12 noon – 4 p.m.

903-6740

F&S TAILORS and FASHION

Located at 2372 Genesee Street (Near Pine Ridge), F& S Tailors has some of the finest men's and women's dress clothing around, in addition to being expert tailors. Call 894-3742.

Black Monarchy

Amazing gift ideas! Shop 100% authentic headwraps, Ankara, batik, Dashiki, artwork, and handmade jewelry made of raw materials. Pieces celebrate the diaspora of culture, vibrancy, and color.

Pieces originate from Africa to India! 527 W. Utica St. visit www.IamPhyNomenal.com also see the Black Monarchy Facebook page. Phone (347)508-5267.

Leslie’s Boutique

1474 Fillmore @ Woodlawn; variety of new and used clothing, shoes, and more for men, women and children. Donations welcome!

Books, puzzles and everything Afro-centric. Obama puzzles still available!. 8476010.

Pamela's

3142 Main St. Nice variety of lovely women's hats, clothing and accessories. Hours 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday – Saturday. Call for appointment. 725- 6215

Global

Villages

and

Global Chic are two stores

owned by Louise Sano. They carry a wide variety of hand made and imported women’s clothing, fabrics, accessories and home accents from around the globe and from local artisans. Both stores are located just one block apart on Grant St. Global Villages at 216 Grant and Global Chic 242 Grant. Hours of operation Monday 10am-6pm, Tuesday Thru Saturday 10am7pm and for the holidays 10am -3pm on Sundays. You can contact the store 716 8873889 for more info

Ansar in Arabic means “the Helper.” Since they opened their doors at 1371 Fillmore Avenue in 2009 as a mobile communication center, the proprietors of Ansar Fragrances, Duane and Helen Madyun, have served their community well. They still provide some service to mobile devices , but are now primarily specializing in Fragrances, Incense, Shea Butter, Essential Oils, Aroma Lamps, Candles and more! Ansar has some great gift ideas for the holidays Their hours are Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. They are closed Sundays. Although they will be remodeling on the inside within the next 90 days, they will remain open to serve! Stop by and check out their beautiful new sign and the really great items they have inside for sale. Their hours are Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Saturday 10

a.m. - 6 p.m. Ansar is closed Sundays. For more information call 884-2373.

Vendor: Rosetta Costner Rosetta creates really unique and beautiful items; jewelry, clothing, hats and more. 6029646 * 844-1972. Good prices!

Eva Doyle's Eye on History/

Zawadi Books

Treat your teen or pre-teen to some of the awesome natural bath and beauty products around, created just for girls

by Buffalo’s own Zandra Azariah Cunningham; a 17 year old entrepreneur who’s gone global! Check out her website for fantastic gift ideas! zandrabeauty.com

Flight 104 /Creative Arts Gallery

394 Genesee St, beautiful gift ideas from artifacts and beautiful Black art to unique clothing ideas, oils and jewelry; really awesome stuff. Hours Mon. -Sat. Noon- 12-6 p.m.

882-1925.

MMW Style Studio

MMW Style Studio in Downtown Buffalo. Trendy Women's Clothing Boutique, carries celebrity and couture styled women’s clothing, jewelry and accessories for sizes 0-3X at very affordable prices! Located in Lafayette Square across from the Lafayette Hotel open Monday thru Friday 12noon -6pm and Saturday 12-5pm. Onthe web at mmwstylesstudio.com or Instagram @mmwtylestudio or on FaceBook @MMWStyleStudioLLC

Baskets by Ms. Regina

Regina Carter's beautiful baskets make great gift ideas.

She's located inside the West Side Bazaar, 25 Grant Street.

Janie's Emporium Janie’s Emporium specializes in handcrafted jewelry, accessories, home accents from local and international artisans for all seasons and every occasion.

Located at 2943 Delaware Avenue Janie's is open Monday through Sunday 10am – 4pm, you can also find Janie’s on social media @ janiesemporium .

Touch of Essence

Therapeutic Message 3435 Harlem Rd. 602.1643

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

NATIONAL + WORLD

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 20,, 2017

5

S h o p p e r ’s G u i d e & B u s i n e s s D i re c to r y

Give The Gift of Art This Holiday Season!

Saibo African Imports

Classic Knot

Carrying on the culturally enriching legacy once shared with his partner Lonnie B. Harrell, Saibo African Imports (formerly known as the Allen Street Connection) features African arts, baskets, mudcloth, men’s and women’s clothing shea butter, jewelry and more! Stop by 81 Allen St. today and see Saibo or Lonnie’s wife, the lovely Willa Dean Monday thu Saturday 11 a.m. tO 6 p.m. Or call 542-8610.

11 Year old Sheldon Gibbs, Buffalo’s own creative young entrepreneur, has the perfect gift idea for that special person in your life, hand crafted bow ties – from basic black to polka-dot - which he creates for his business, Classic Knot. Check out his website at www.ClassicKnot.com or call (716)544-8840. You can also find him on Facebook

Elite Solutions

Located in the heart of the community at 1632 Jefferson Ave. between Northland & Florida, is a unique boutique run by Hazel Harris of Elite Make-Up Solutions. Her boutique carries a host of impressive‘ fashion solutions.’ The other really unique thing about the boutique is that its located inside of her husband’s business, Trini’s Tropical restaurant.

So you can get your shop and your eat on (savory Caribbean cuisine) in one stop! They’re open 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Stop in today!

“The Road Within” – Jessica Thorpe

“Summoning Muse” – James Cooper

“Jamm ‘N’ ” – John Baker

“3 Essential Prayers” – Dawn Berry Martin-Walker

Give The Gift of Remembrance Kickz Signature Sneakers Custom NFL,NHL, NLB, NBA.2321Main St. corner of E. Oakwood.

You can support the historic African American Veterans Monument project and at the same time give the gift of remembrance by purchasing a commemorative brick for $250 inscribed with the name of your favorite veteran, (deceased or alive). Each brick, which will be displayed permanently at the monument at the Erie County Naval Park waterfront.Visit AAVMWNY.org

The Ink Spot

Give The Gift Of Culture

The Ink spot, 1440 Jefferson near E. Ferry, is conveniently located for all your holiday delivery needs and some gift ideas as well. They offer CD/DVD Duplications Postal Service, ATM, FedX, DHL, Faxing, Email and more. Stop by today! they are open daily Mon-Thurs 9 a.m.-5p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Call 881-7594 or email: inkspot22@gmail.com

Give the gift of culture with a membership to a family or friend to the African American Cultural Center, home of the Paul Robeson Theatre and the renowned African American Cultural Center Drummers and Dancers, now its 50th year of serving this community! Truly a gift that keeps on giving. Go to www.aaccbuffalo.org,Call 884-2013, visit them on Facebook

“Really Into You” – Fred Foster

“Artist and Model” – William Y. Cooper

“Fakin’ Jacks In” –Edreys Wajed

The recent Arts for Artists Holiday Art Auction 2017 hosted by Outside The Box at the Unboxed Art Sanctuary featured some beautiful works by local African American artists (as shown above) including John Baker, Edreys Wajed, Betty Pitts-Foster, Iris Kirkwood, Karima Collier, Dawn Berry MartinWalker, Rubens Mukunzi, Jesse Key and James Cooper. There are some very nice selections still available for purchase at the Sanctuary@ Outside the Box, 1272 Delaware Avenue (in the carriage house).

For more information contact Jessica Thorpe at (716)362-0230/445-5122 ; or email unboxedink@ gmail.com For more information on Outside The box go to www.unboxedink.com

Buffalo's Black Business Tour and Vendor's Village This Weekend!

O

rganizers of last year's successful Black Business Tour have announced that the next such tour and Vendors Village will take place Saturday December 23, from 11a.m.-3p.m.

The day's event will start at the CAO, 1423 Fillmore supporting "table top businesses" (vendors). at a Vendor Village & Business Incubator. These are various vendors, who don't have brick and mortar locations as of yet. Important business resource information to the participating businesses, from Pathstone Business Enterprise, MWBE, and Community Action Organization will also be provided. A printed business directory containing the location and contact information of participating businesses will also be printed and made available.

There will be food, music, and a DJ. The shopping tour will depart from there and support the following businesses on the Business Tour.Zawadi Books 1382 Jefferson; Ansar Fragrances and More 1371 Fillmore and Utica;Black Monarchy 527 W. Utica Street Suite 2; Queen of New York Hair and Beauty Supplies 2879 Bailey Ave.; and Yar Mo's Muse 700 Main and Tupper (downtown).

The goal is to increase "Dollar Velocity."

If 100 shoppers spend $5, $10, or $20 at each business, say organizers , it will strengthen and reinforce the general principle (on GP) of supporting your own. The goal is to establish support for Black Business as a general practice, beyond a one day event, by increasing the recycling or re-circulating of our Black dollars throughout the Black Business Community. "We want to reproduce the idea that produced Black Wall Street. Don't just read about it, but be about it! Our theme is; 'Cooperative Economics' All Year Long!" a statement from organizers read.

Partners who are helping to organize the Buffalo Black Business Tour and Vendor Village include The African Heritage Food Coop, The MLK Business District Association, Muhammad Mosque #23 and the Community Action Organization.

For more information contact Dahveed Muhammad; Coordinator, CAO Better Schools Better Neighborhoods at 716-332-3773.

6

FAITH & FAMILY

COME CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS with MUSIC !!!!

On Saturday, December 23 at 11:00 am join the Emmanuel Temple Choir for the 19th annual Christmas Service at 179 E. Ferry (home of Zion Missionary Baptist Church).

Mary H. Gresham is director; Michelle Thomas organ/ keyboard; Jerry Livingston, bass; Preston Brown, percussion. Rohan Simpson is Pastor, of Emmanuel Temple SDA Church. See you there!

One Day Christmas Revival Join the WNY Interdenominational Congress of Young Preachers for our One Day Christmas Revival, “Immanuel.”

For one night only we will celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. This will be an evening filled with word, worship, and fellowship. Come hear powerful inspirational messages from Minister Malik Fuller of First Calvary Baptist Church and Pastor Nicholas Irion, the senior pastor of Centennial A.M.E. Zion Church. Also, our celebrant will be Minister Ahmad Randall of ELIM Christian Fellowship. This revival will be a time of ecclesiastical unity and a refreshing move of God. Service will be held December 22, 7pm at First Calvary Missionary Baptist Church located at 467 William St. Buffalo, New York. Don't miss it! See you there!

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 20, 2017

“Repositioing the Body of Christ”

Zion Missionary Baptist Church Announces January Prayer/Fasting Gathering Dates

Zion Missionary BaptistChurch is once again hosting the “Repositioning the Body of Christ Through Prayer and Fasting” Monday morning altar prayer for the month of January.

Please join us every Monday at 6 a.m.: Monday January 8 Monday January 15 Monday January 22 Monday January 29 For more information contact the church office at 8861362.

Rev C.M. Jenkins II is Host Pastor.

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF WATCH NIGHT IN THE BLACK CHURCH The Watch Night service can be traced back to gatherings on New Year’s Eve also known as “Freedom’s Eve.” On that night, Black slaves and free blacks came together in churches and private homes all across the nation awaiting news that the Emancipation Proclamation actually had become law. Lincoln had used the occasion of the Union victory at Antietam to issue a preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, which freed all slaves in the rebellious states after January 1, 1863.

He justified his decision as a wartime measure, and did not go so far as to free the slaves in the border states loyal to the Union. At the stroke of midnight, all slaves in the Confederate States were declared legally free. When the news was received, there were prayers, shouts and songs of joy as many people fell to their knees and thanked God. Still, the Emancipation Proclamation deprived the Confederacy of the bulk of its labor forces and put international public opinion strongly on the Union side.

Some 186,000 black soldiers would join the Union Army by the time the war ended in 1865, and 38,000 lost their lives.

Blacks have gathered in churches annually on New Year’s Eve ever since, praising God for bringing us safely through another year. It’s been over a century since the first Freedom’s Eve and tradition still brings us together at this time every year to celebrate “how we got over.” This celebration takes many African American descendants of slaves into a new year with praise and worship. The service usually begins anywhere from 7 p.m. To 10 p.m. And ends at midnight with the entrance of the New Year. Some people come to church first, before going out to celebrate, for others, church is the only New Year’s Eve event.

FAITH & FAMILY

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 20,, 2017

95 YEAR OLD WWII VET RECEIVES HERO’S WELCOME IN TWO COUNTRIES! Thanks to “Wish of A Lifetime,” WWII Veteran Paul Woods received a free trip to Sydney, Australia to Retrace his steps 73 years ago as a 19year Technical Sergeant serving with the Australian Army the New Zealand Army and the Aboriginals Troops.

When Japan attacked Aus-

Paulette Wood

tralia in WWII in the Pacific Theatre, it was American Troops that defended Australian Freedom! The U.S. Consult General Sydney, Valerie C. Fowler and her husband spent three hours on a Saturday showing Veteran Paul Woods the Anzac Memorial and Aboriginal Monument

WARM WELCOME HOME: WWII veteran Paul Woods (seated) received a warm welcome home from his American Legion Jesse Clipper Post #430.

in Hyde Park honoring the American New Zealand and Aboriginal Troops that protected Australia in WWII. An embassy photographer donated his time to take photos of a hero’s return. The Embassy covered the event on its live Twitter feed. Paul Woods was accompanied by his daughters Paulette Woods, Commander of the Jesse Clipper American Legion Post#430, and RN Linnette Woods-Ingram.

WWII veteran Paul Woods was given a tour of the Royal Randwick Racecourse (Alison Rd, Randwick NSW 2031, Australia) and the Warwick Farm Racecourse and the Archive Center. He was taken to the same spot where he and the color troops were stationed in the center of the race track. Paul said: “Sea Biscuit won her race and was a Champion! He and the American Troops won their war!

They were Champions too!”

The race track managers agreed as they photographed the returning war hero, who was retracing his steps as a 19-year-old youth, fighting in a war to free others, while he himself was not free in his own country. In WWII the American Troops were segregated, the Colored troops were housed at Warwick Farm Race Track where “Sea Biscuit” the Champion Race horse was also housed. The Race Track is a billion-dollar business in Australia, with 10 milliondollar horses; the Race Track manager presented Paul Woods with a picture from September 1942 when “Warwick Farm Race Track was allotted to the United States Army Camp Warwick, and the US Army Service of Supply (USASOS) was established.

Paul Woods drove munitions all across Australia and was awarded three Bronze Stars.

He then served in Port Mosley New Guinea with the Aboriginal soldiers called the “Fuzzy Wassy Angel’s’. These dark black soldiers are the original inhabitants of Australia, they were discriminated

7

against in their own land, and only given citizen in 1967 in the county of which they are the original land owners. These native Australian bravely served as part of the Australia Army and served with Paul Woods.

The descendants of the Aboriginal Soldier’s honored Paul Woods as a tribal Elder and spent four hours sharing their culture with him at the Waradah Aboriginal Cultural Center and again at the Botanical Gardens. Paul also served in the amphibious assault to Liberate the Philippines under General McArthur.

While in Sydney, Australia, Paul Woods ate Kangaroo’s meat, which tastes like steak.

He visited live kangaroos, and the emu bird which is as large as an ostrich. The emu can run 40 miles an hour and out run a horse. These two animals are the Royal Symbol of Australia, because neither can go backwards, they never retreat! He saw other species indigenous to Australia i.e. the world’s 10 most deadly snakes, and Koaloa Bears at the Featherdale Wildlife Park.

It was an 8 day visit to the Land of Down Under. Truly it was the tour of a lifetime for Paul Woods and his

family. We sincerely thank the “Wish Of A Lifetime Foundation” for sponsoring this Trip .We thank the U.S. Consult and the Australian Turf Club for their hospitality, and the Australian people for their love of the U.S. Army and American soldiers.

WORSHIP THIS WEEK

8

Entertainment

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 20, 2017

Art On View

ON STAGE

Rodney Taylor HOME Fine Artist Rodney Taylor is exhibiting his latest work HOME now through mid January at Nina Freudenheim Gallery located 140 North /Hotel Lenox . Hours Tuesday - Friday 10a.m.-5p.m.

Thursday & Saturday by Appt. Only.

*Chaka Khan Sat., Jan. 27 @ Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino Event Center

Urban Arts Collective Urban Arts Collective exhibition Images of Us By Us on view now through April 1st at at Burchfield Penney Art Center, located 1300 Elmwood. Hours Tuesday – Saturday 10am -5p.m.

Thursday 10a.m.- 8p.m. and Sundays 11a.m.- 4p.m.

*THE LION KING: Shea’s Buffalo Theatre, Dec. 13-Jan. 7; 866-870-2717; LionKing.com

Holiday Entertainment

*Queen City Comedy Jam presents Mo’nique, Nephew Tommy and Friends at Kleinhans music Hall, Saturday, Jan. 6. Tickets @ Kleinhans Box Office and Doris Records.

Buffalo’s Newest Music Hall Church of Scientology Presents Music at the Org and Christmas Party featuring Colleen Williams and The Bobby Jones Trio. Dec 21, 7-10 pm, 836 Main Street Suggested donation is $5 per person.

The Hip Hop Toy Drive All donations & proceeds will be donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Erie CountyFeat: Lil Ging & Rizzo, YA BOY TWAN, BSTEZ, 9Strategy, Parliament City, Tmurdah, Dmas, & Higher Intellect Music Group & DJ NiTELiTE December 21, $5 at door with a Donation, $10 without. 18+ (ID A MUST) 6:00 pm at Stamps ( the bar) 98 Main Street in Tonawanda.

FAIRGROUNDS FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS Sunday, Dec. 17th - Saturday, Dec. 23rd 5:00 - 9:00 PM All new light displays in Holiday Wonderland. Illuminated village, with unique holiday activities and shows, short train ride around the Festival grounds. Christmas Tree Forest, and the North Pole Experience too! All included with your carload admission.

Tickets $25

NEW YEAR’S EVE BUFFALO BALL DROP Sunday, Dec. 31st - Monday, Jan. 1st 10:30 PM - 12:00 AM Downtown at the iconic, Iskalo Development Electric Tower. Free Event

*August Wilson’s Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,

directed by Willie W. Judson Jr., now thru Dec. 24 @ the Paul Roberson Theatre in the African American Cultural Center; Fridays and Saturdays @ 8 p.m., Sundays @ 4 p.m. and starring

Sandra Gilliam, Rachel Henderson, Leon Copeland, Ricky Needham, Sean Farrell, Tuhran Gethers, Roosevelt Tidwell, Al Garrison and Marcus Thompson Jr. Tickets, groups & reservations 884-

2013, www.aaccbuffalo.org;

WINTER IS HERE! Paramount Chapter 57 is giving hats and gloves to our children of Buffalo. The drop off location for donations until December 22 is Sis. DuBois, 2460 Main St. (716) 583-9288 or Sis. Shaw at (716) 605-8822. Thanks for giving!

SEASON'S GREETINGS!

Eye On History Radio Show: New Day and Time Columnist Eva M. Doyle would like to announce that her Eye On History Radio Show is moving to a new day and time. Beginning January 6, 2018 the show will air on the first and third Saturday of each month from 11 to 11:30 a.m. It will feature a lot of Black History, commentary, interviews, and a variety of music is played at the end of the show. This will mark the 12th Anniversary of the Eye On History Radio Show. You can hear it on WUFO 1080 AM and 96.5 FM.

GIVE THE GIFT THAT ROARS!

THRU JANUARY 7 ONLY ©Disney

Shea’s Buffalo Theatre

BUFFALO/ C M Y K 5”W X 5.5”H

LionKing.com | 866-870-2717 92061 / BROADSHEET / BUFFALO CHALLANGER RUN DATE: WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 20

*Robin Thicke Sa.t, Jan. 06 @ Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino Event Center.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 20,, 2017

S h o p p e r ’s G u i d e & B u s i n e s s D i re c to r y

ONE DAY ONLY! Saturday December 30 11am-Spm HUGE 50% OFF SALE PLUS 30% �

LAYAWAY AVAILABLE

Louis Kallinikos & Sons

9

10

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 20, 2017

Buffalo Kwanzaa 2019: "Passing The Torch" All programs will be from 7:00 – 9:00pm at East Community High School at 820 Northampton Street, unless otherwise noted. Admission is free every evening!

December 26- Tuesday Umoja-Unity

Niagara Square at 12pm Kwanzaa Dedication!!

Black Liberation Flag Raising

Empress Phile Chionesu

Empress Phile Chionesu, Founder of the Million Woman March to Speak at Kwanzaa

Evening Program Opening Ceremony Kwanzaa Video Presentation Tribute to the Ancestors & Elders Traditionkeepers Storytellers Project Access to A-Free-Ka

December 27- Wednesday

Empress Phile Chionesu, founder of the historic Million Woman March, will speak on the fourth night of Kwanzaa, Friday Dec. 29 from 6-9 p.m.

On October 25, 1997, an estimated 750,000 African American women gathered together to march on the Ben Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia. The march was designed to inspire African American women across the nation to work for their own improvement as well as that of their communities.

An estimated 125,000 women arrived from Chicago and New York.

Winnie Mandela was among several influential Black women who attended and spoke.

Kujichagulia-Self Determination Evening Program 7-9p.m.

An evening of electrifying performances by, African American Cultural Center

December 28 - Thursday

Ujima-Collective Work & Responsibility Program Daughters of Creative Sound TBA

December 29- Friday 6-9p.m.

Ujamaa-Cooperative Economics

Program Art & Culture Performance Keynote: Empress Phile Chionesu, Founder of the Million Woman March Panel Discussion: “WOW! Womyn of Wealth!”

Kwanzaa Celebration Moves to East High

December 30- Saturday Nia-Purpose

Children’s Kwanzaa 11a.m.-4p.m Afrikan Cultural Education & Art Activities & Storytelling Marcus Garvey Math, Art, & Science Expo

This year’s Kwanzaa celebration has moved from Performing Arts to East Community High School, 820 Northampton.

NiaSoul Concert: Featured Performance by FragranceandJuan Cosmic Energy: Melodic Love Therapy “A Night of Purposeful Soul Music…R&B, Soul, & Reggae” NiaSoul Train Line by Access to A-Free-Ka

December 31- Sunday Kuumba-Creativity

Dr. Karenga

Dr. Karenga’s Annual Kwanzaa Visit Cancelled Due to Illness Dr. Maulana Karenga, the creator of Kwanzaa who has made it a point to visit Buffalo annually since its inception, will be unable to appear this year due to illness.

Karamu Feast!!!

6:00p.m.-9:00p.m. *Free Potluck! Please bring a dish to share (no red meat, alcohol, pork)

January 1 –Monday

Imani-Faith

12:00-4:00p.m.

CAO Alphonso “Rafi” Green Jr. Masten Resource Center /1423 Fillmore Avenue Program Eye on History Presentation“The Black Madonna and Other Images in Blackness” by, Queen Mother Eva M. Doyle ***Schedule subject to change The Lonnie B. Harrell Afrikan Marketplace Open every evening from 6-9 p.m. Buy Black!

M

By Nanette D. Massey

any of us are preparing for Christmas and also Kwanzaa.

What exactly is Kwanzaa? Kwanzaa is a seven day period of reflection and celebration of shared aims and culture among African A merican people from December 26th through January 1st. It was conceived by California scholar Maulana Karenga and first celebrated in 1966 during the height of the modern civil rights movement. In articulating the purpose of Kwanzaa, Karenga said "you must first have a cultural revolution. The cultural revolution gives identity, purpose and direction."

The public, group celebration of Kwanzaa has a sustained history here in Buffalo thanks in part to Sharon and Kenneth Holley, owners of Zawadi Books. Located at 1382 Jefferson Avenue, the bookstore is quaintly tucked into a house with distinct purple doors. They have run Afro-centric book stores in one form or another here in Buffalo for nearly 40 years. They met when Sharon was a librarian at the old E. Utica public library. Kenneth, a U.B. history student, came in looking for a book by Buffalo activist John A. Smith.

"I was surprised someone else was reading him," Sharon said, and it was love from then on.

They shared a fervor for reading, and endeavored to bring a place to Buffalo's Black community that was more than a bookstore, but a gathering place where Blacks could discuss ideas and share information.

In the early 70's, prior to the formation of the Kwanzaa Committee, Kwanzaa was celebrated at one night events at various sites in the community such as the Center for Positive Thought, the African American Cultural Center, and the WATU Center. The Holleys helped to coordinate the organizations together to form one united event that simply manifested in different parts of the city on different nights.

"By keeping it moving around, we helped introduce it to more sections of the city," says Sharon.

The Holleys have seen the Buffalo Kwanzaa event evolve plenty from those days.

"In the early years, people were saying that it's the Black Christmas," Sharon explains. "But it's important to understand that it is its own holiday. Regardless of your religion you can celebrate it.

Kwanzaa unites us as a people, not a religion."

This year's celebration will do less traveling around, but still presents several locale opportunities. Tuesday , December 26 through Friday December 29 presentations will be nightly from 7 p.m. to 9 at the East Comunity High School auditorium, 820 Northampton Street. On Saturday December 30 the Pratt Willert Center at 422 Pratt Street will host a community pot luck dinner and everyone is invited to come whether you're bringing a dish or not. In order to be inclusive to as many dietary regimens as possible, those bringing a dish to share are asked to exclude red meat, alcohol, and pork from their recipes. There will also be an open mic segment where all are encouraged to present poems, songs, and planned or spontaneous contemplations. Sunday December 31, the final public event is at the Rafi Green community center, 1423 Fillmore, from noon to 4.

Each day has its own theme attached to it with a corresponding Swahili language name: •Umoja (Unity) •Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) •Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility) •Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics) •Nia (Purpose) •Kuumba (Creativity) •Imani (Faith) The principal of Nia, purpose, speaks to Sharon most personally.

"It asks us to think about what is it that you exist to do, primarily for the good. Mine is to create an atmosphere where people feel comfortable accessing knowledge and information. I do that through the bookstores, as a story teller, and through my other activities."

Kenneth finds himself most inspired by Imani, faith. "It goes beyond God, beyond spiritual.

Faith in yourself, that you'd be able to accomplish something. Faith in family, the building blocks of everything else we'll do. Faith in the community, so your children can grow and strive in a safe environment."

The torch is passed on in the Holley family through daughter Makeda Holley, who is an active participant with this year's Buffalo Kwanzaa planning committee. The Holleys have another daughter living out of town who will be returning to Buffalo to celebrate with the family.

Sharon adds "people who've grown up here and gone away come back for it, it's not just the older generation that gets involved. There's nothing like Kwanzaa in Buffalo."

(For the most complete information on dates and events, go to Facebook and look for "Buffalo Kwanzaa Page." The Challenger has been assured that this page will be updated soon and regularly.)

11

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 20,, 2017

The 12 Year old Black Boy And the World We Live In...

W

hy hasn’t District Attorney John J. Flynn filed criminal charges against 61 Year old Edward Bald for his confession in the shooting of a 12 year old Black youth who spent nearly a month in the John R. Oshei Children’s Hospital? According to a report in the Buffalo News, the young boy is suffering from the loss of an eye, shotgun pellets in his brain, collapsed lung, a blood clot, brain swelling and damage to his esophagus.

In a recent call I received from the boy’s mother, she said the DA has not contacted her and the police haven’t been to her home since the day of the incident. She further said to me by telephone that when it happened she didn’t know where to turn, or who to go to for help, and she was devastated .

TED She said when Erie County Legislature Betty Jean Grant called her, she was uneasy talking to her, not knowing who to trust. Likewise, when Betty KIRKLAND Jean gave her my telephone number and advised her to call me. She said that she was hesitant.

“My son,” she said, is home now. He was released from the hospital last week, and he cries, he is so depressed with Christmas coming. But I don’t know why that man said in the paper that my son was big; he is a small kid and short.”

Betty Jean Grant said the mother said the same thing to her about not knowing where to turn.

"What about the NAACP, where are they?" Grant asked. I was sure she knew, but my answer gave me an opportunity to promote my book.

I know you purchased my book Betty, but apparently you haven’t had an opportunity to read it yet, there is a chapter in the book titled NAACP,” I responded.

But the question still remains, how do you tell a crying mother that the world that used to be among Black people in America no longer exists, that the love and understanding of each other no longer exists, and that someplace along our odyssey too many of us became what we were struggling not to be. **** Since the District Attorney has ignored using his obvious power of arrest and file charges against the 61 year old confessed shooter. It appears that the DA is finding it difficult to arrest or charge a 61year old White man for shooting a Black 12 year old boy. Bald, according to the Buffalo News, thought the 12 year old was a threat to him and about to break into his home. But no such evidence was found to verify such a claim. It appears to be one of those cases where no matter where the youth was in the neighborhood, because he is Black, he would be suspected of being guilty of something. The following quote is from the Buffalo News of December 9, 2017.

It is unclear whether the boy was vandalizing Bald’s house or trying to break in.

The boy who was shot was not alone outside the house. Bald said there was more than one person outside his home.

It seems that Aaron Besecker, the author of the article, likes the behavior of the police, who left the scene without making an arrest, and the behavior of the DA – both apparently trying very hard to make the general public believe that the 12 year old boy was doing something wrong.

Although Besecher surmised that the 12 year old was doing at least one of the two criminal options he stated in the above article, it appears Besecker forgot the most important reason for the 12 year old boy being in front of Bald’s house, that reason is that he was free and had a constitutional right to be there. **** But before I go any further in this diatribe I must pay homage to Erie County Legislator Betty Jean Grant for organizing a group of Black, White and Hispanics members of our community for taking our rage to the District Attorney ‘s door in Erie County Hall. One sign read, “What if it had been a Black man shooting a White boy?”

This is a question that history answers very well. America’s prisons are full of Black men and Black boys for the altercations they have had with Whites and the White institutions in America; altercations perpetuated too often by Whites. But we must not forget the number of Blacks killed by paranoid Whites who shoot Blacks merely for their fear of Blacks. Could this be Bald’s problem, as well as that of White police officers and White-thinking Black police officers? **** One advantage I have is the ability to remember an experience when I was 10 years old, which was nearly 74 years ago. It was 1944, the second night in our home at 85 O’Connor Street in South Buffalo, the Irish Catholic enclave. It was the second night in our home in which my

“We wish to plead our own cause.

Too long have others spoken for us.”

- John Russwurm, Freedom’s Journal.

1827 America’s 1st Black Newspaper

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

P: 716 881.1051 F: 716 881.1053

Give The Gift of Reading This Holiday Season

T

he holiday season is a time when gift giving is promoted.

Books and historical gifts should be on the list if you want to give something that will last more than one day. We offer the following: •The Color of My Soul: Poems and Story Songs by Linda Goss (Mama Linda) co-founder of the National Association of Black Storytellers, Inc. •A Good Cry by Nikki Giovanni •Higher is Waiting by Tyler Perry •Soar: Build Your Vision from the Ground Up by T.D. Jakes •Solo by Kwame Alexander (Young adult) •The Wisdom of Sundays by Oprah Winfrey In addition to these and other books we have Christmas and Kwanzaa Cards, 2018 Black Calendars, Journals, Black History Flash Cards v.1 and v.2 and Kwanzaa sets – kinara, unity cup, candles and mat.

Zawadi Books is located at 1382 Jefferson across from Jim Bell Cleaners. Open Wednesday, Friday & Satuday 12 noon - 4 pm. Call 903-6740.

parents had brought, and rightly so, they were proud new homeowners. But the joy didn’t last long that night as my mother and I stood in the kitchen when suddenly a brick came crashing through the kitchen window nearly hitting my mother. Attached to the brick was a note that read: “Niggers go back where you came from.” My parents called the police, two big police White officers came (later I would learn they were Irish). After reading the note out loud, one turned to my father looking him in the eye and asked, “Why don’t you niggers go back where you came from?” My father flinched; my mother grabbed his arm. (Spirit and Soul Odyssey of a Black Man in America, Volume One).

What would have happened if my father had grabbed his shotgun and fired through the hole in the window causing similar injuries to a 12 year old White kid outside his house? But better yet, we don’t need to return to 1944. Are Blacks still the victims of such behavior in certain parts of South Buffalo today and certain parts of the LoveJoy District? Are they still ducking bricks and rocks? At this juncture, the question becomes what is it that restrains Blacks from getting their shotguns and shooting white kids in a similar situation? What restrains Blacks, but not Whites?

In my previous article, “Shooting of 12 Year Old Black Boy, And the Issue of American Racism,” which appeared in the December 13, 2017 edition of the Challenger News, and the December 16-22, 2017 edition of the Criterion News, the point is made that although Edward Bald confessed to the shooting of this 12 Year Old Black boy, he has not been arrested, and very little is known about him. The following statement in the Buffalo News of December 9, 2017, quotes District Attorney Flynn as saying that: “The bottom line, quite frankly is whether or not this man who shot this boy had justification to do it.”

There is a law 35.15, of the Penal Law titled “Justification; use of physical force in defense of a person.” This law hasn’t been hiding. It has been used numerous times. It defines under what circumstances physical force can be used and the difference between Physical force and deadly physical force. My understanding and reading of this law has not changed since it was first put into effect in 1980. According to this law, Bald should be held on violating the law which can be read by looking it up on the computer. But even if the young boy threw the rock that broke the window, the law still does not mean that the owner of the window could use Physical force or deadly physical force. Did the thought ever occur to Bald to call the police?

Instead the DA appears to have taken on the role of the defense attorney in attempting to find something wrong with the law, something that would come to his defense to prevent him from arresting Bald and filing charges. Thus far it appears that his office has ignored the victim, a 12 year old Black boy who will be handicapped for life and unable to live a normal life as most children. The conduct of the DA is laudable providing it’s used in every criminal case that comes to his office regardless of sex, race, ethnicity, group or faith.

But to answer the question why the DA hasn’t arrested Bald or filed charges against the shooter might be that he intends to present the case to the Grand Jury. This would more than likely take him off the hook; presenting the case to the grand jury which will consists of 6 to 12 members, most of whom are usually white males from other areas of Erie County purpose is to decide whether there is enough evidence to indict Bald. The evidence presented to the Grand Jury is determined by the DA and the information and business is confidential. But what could be the greatest evidence comes from Buffalo News reports, action of the DA, and the police. The bottom line is that at this juncture, it appears to this writer that the DA is working toward asking the Grand Jury to issue a No Bill ( not enough evident to charge). This would prevent the DA from picking sides between those who support Bald and those who ask for justice for the 12 year old.

But in essence he would have picked sides.

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

• Ad Deadline: Friday 5 p.m.

• Classified Deadline: Thursday 5 p.m.

We respectfully submit that the opinions expressed on the editorial pages of this newspaper

are not necessairly those of Challenger Community News Corporation or its advertisers.

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

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

12

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 20, 2017

"THE TRUTH AND NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH":

The BUILD Academy principal, Mr. Garcia, will be my guest on my radio talks show "The truth and Nothing But the Truth" Wednesday December 27 from 1:30 to 2:00 p.m. to talk about his scholars at the BUILD Academy. In the month of January 2018 on the last Wednesday from 1:00 to 2 p.m. the children will be my guests! It will be the first time a public school has ever allowed the children to come on live radio to speak about their life experiences and their daily lives at school. Tune in to "The Truth and Nothing But the Truth So Help Us God. Let's hear it from "the mouths of babes!"

Merry Christmas?

According to a recent survey released by the Pew Research Center found that while a vast majority of Americans still celebrate Christmas, fewer think of Christmas as a religious holiday today.

“Our history did not begin in chains. It will not end in chains.”

GBUAHN ANSWERS THE CALL: The Greater Buffalo United Accountable Healthcare Network (GBUAHN) teamed up with WIVB-TV News4 on Wednesday, December 13, 2017 to host a telethon for victims of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico.

The telethon yielded more than $36,500 in donations for those who were forced to flee their homes due to the natural disaster.

Volunteers from GBUAHN and members of the Puerto Rico Hurricane Relief Fund answered close to 1,000 calls from donors. WIVB-TV reporter/anchors Christy Kern and Nalina Shapiro provided live televised updates throughout the event, and interviewed GBUAHN Chief Executive Officer Dr. Raul Vazquez several times during the telethon.

“It’s not like ‘oh this happened, things are better.’ Things are still not good,” said Dr. Vazquez during News4’s 6:00 p.m. broadcast. “And a lot of these people are coming (to Buffalo), so that’s what we’re doing here – trying to support them.”

Dr. Vazquez and GBUAHN Chief Systems Officer Toni Vazquez (on behalf of the Raul and Toni Vazquez Foundation) donated a total of $1,500. All of the funds raised in the telethon will go to Hurricane Maria survivors who are resettling in Buffalo and Western New York and will be used toward housing, furniture, clothing, appliances, etc.Those who did not get a chance to donate during the telethon may do so by visiting the Go-Fund-Me page www.gofundme.com/prreliefwny

13

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 20,, 2017

BLACK HISTORY continued from page 3

for the purpose of teaching men law and order, brotherly love, and self help. Second, Allen and Jones formed the “Free African Society,” for the purpose of helping Africans adjust to their new lives in America. Hall Jones, and Bannaker wanted something else. Something African could call their own, so they went to Allen and asked him to form his own church; a church where Africans oould worship with pride and dignity. A place where they could set up their own schools, hospitals and banks.

Thirdly, Bannaker set three things in motion.1) Being surveyor, he mapped out the trails for the Underground Railroad and established stations with the Quakers. 2) He established a crossing point to Canada, from a place in Western New York State. 3) Prepared Richard Allen for what was to come, he knew after the deaths of the three older men, Allen would be alone. So Bannaker had to prepare Allen for the intoxication of success, the brutality of slavery and most importantly bearing the weight of all the Africans in America.

So in the year 1787 George Washington helped form the government we have today.

But it was the “Young Bull” Richard Allen who kept the light of freedom justice and equality from going out in the minds of the oppressed.

He formed the first African Methodist Episcopal Church in the 13 colonies, which he used as a vehicle to give hope to all who needed it.

ROCHESTER SANTA

continued from page 2 Knews has coordinated Soul Santa for Families photo sessions during the Christmas season. This year, for the second year in a row, GoodKnews and Big Hank will partner with R U Villa retail store inside the Mall at Greece Ridge in Rochester from Tuesday, December 19 until Saturday, December 23.

For details about Soul Santa’s appearance inside the Mall at Greece Ridge, visit www. goodknews.me or contact R U Villa inside the Mall at Greece Ridge at 585-227-5409.

NEW BUSINESSES LLC -LEGAL NOTICENOTICE of FORMATION of a DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Name of LLC, T- N-T Rental Properties, LLC Date of filing of Articles of Organization with the NY Dept. of State: June 5, 2017. Office of the LLC: 82 Stonham Way Williamsville, NY 14221 Erie County. Contact: Theodore Brinson (716) 444-1278.

The NY Secretary of State has been designated as the agent upon whom process may be served. NYSS may mail a copy of process to the LLC at 82 Stonham Way Williamsville, NY. Purpose of LLC: Rental Assistance and Property Management. No specific duration attached to LLC. Nov. 15,22,29 Dec.6,13,20 -LEGAL NOTICENOTICE of FORMATION of a DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Name of LLC, RET Freedom LLC, Date of filing of Articles of Organization with the NY Dept. of State: August 9, 2017. Office of the LLC: 1000 Jefferson Ave, Buffalo, NY 14204 Erie County. Contact: Timothy Hogues (716) 818-6637. The NY Secretary of State has been designated as the agent upon whom process may be served. NYSS may mail a copy of process to the LLC at 1000 Jefferson Ave, Buffalo, NY 14204. Purpose of LLC: Rental Assistance and Property Management. No specific duration attached to LLC. Nov. 15,22,29 Dec.6,13,20 -LEGAL NOTICE-

ADMalcolm Construction Management LLC. Art of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/11/17. Office: Erie County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 212 Wallace Ave, Buffalo, NY 14216. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Nov. 15,22,29 Dec.6,13,20

-LEGAL NOTICENOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Ximi Underneath filed Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on the 1st day of November, 2017. Office location: Erie County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served upon him or her to: 33 Weber Ave, Buffalo, NY 14215.

Purpose: Any lawful act or activity.

Nov. 15,22,29 Dec.6,13,20 -LEGAL NOTICENOTICE OF FORMATION OF A DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Name of LLC: Pleasant Ride Transportation, LLC. Articles of Organization November 7, 2017 Office of LLC: Erie County.The NY Secretary of State has been designated as the agent upon whom process may be served. Mail to : 120 Easton Ave. Buffalo, NY 14215.Purpose of LLC: Any lawful purpose permitted for LLC under NY Limited Liability Company Act. NOV. 15,22,29 DEC. 6,13,20 ROOMS

ROOMS FOR RENT: Delavan-Humboldt area, Bailey-Delavan. $325$480. Everything included.

(716)818-3410.

SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES!

LEGAL NOTICE STOX Ref: Smith File#50306 ERIE - INDEX NO.: 813566-2016 SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS. Plaintiff designates ERIE COUNTY as the place of trial based upon the location of the premises herein described as Section 90.21, Block 3, Lot 16, Buffalo, NY, County of Erie COMMUNITY RESTORATION CORPORATION, PLAINTIFF, -against- JUANITA P. SMITH, if living, and if she be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or generally or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs-at-law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through, or under them and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs-at-law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff, CAPITAL ONE BANK, MRC RECEIVABLES CORP., MICHAEL WEINER, COMMISSIONER ERIE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES, MIDLAND FUNDING LLC DBA IN NEW YORK AS MIDLAND FUNDING OF DELAWARE LLC, NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, JOHN DOE #1 through JOHN DOE #12, the last twelve names be-

ing fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, DEFENDANTS. YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the Plaintiff's Attorney within 20 days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this Summons and Complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered against you and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action.

YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated:

Syosset, New York, November 21, 2017. Peter T. Roach & Associates, P.C., attorney for Plaintiff, 6901 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 240, Syosset, NY 11791. Tel: 516-938-3100. To the above named defendants: The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Dennis E. Ward, a Justice of the Supreme Court, State of New York, filed with the Erie County Clerk on July 6, 2017 together with the supporting papers thereon. This is an action to foreclose a mortgage held by Plaintiff on the premises known as Section 90.21, Block 3, Lot 16, Buffalo, NY, County of Erie as described in the complaint on file and commonly known as 36 MORRIS AVENUE, BUFFALO, NY 14214. 50306-2

LEGAL NOTICE

RFP COUNTY OF ERIE REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS & PROPOSAL FOR ARCHITECTURAL & ENGINEERING SERVICES Buffalo Niagara Convention Center Various Improvements, Ballroom & Exhibit Hall ECDPW Project No. NT-17-11 County of Erie Department of Public Works is seeking qualification statements and proposals from interested Architectural & Engineering firms to provide professional Architectural and Engineering Services for the project. Qualification statements and proposals for the project must be received by the County’s Commissioner of Public Works, Rath County Office Building, 95 Franklin Street, Suite 1400, Buffalo, NY 14202 until 2:00PM EST Friday, January 19, 2018. Includes MWBE participation goals. RFQ/RFP submission instructions may be found at: www.erie.gov/ dpw/

EMPLOYMENT/HELP Lead Programmer/Analyst (Networking) The Information Technology Exchange Center at Buffalo State, State University of New York, seeks candidates for the position of Lead Programmer/Analyst (Networking).

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

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

JOB ALERT Hiring: Hospitality Positions -Room Attendant For more information visit UnilandEmployment.com

JOBS

Buffalo Employment and Training Center /

BETC

716-856-5627 www.workforcebuffalo.org The BETC is here to help with your job searching needs. We have free services to all jobseekers looking to find better paying work. an exciting new career, or wanting to upgrade skills to become more marketable in today’s marketplace.

Orientation Times: Monday – Thursday, 10 am or 2 pm.

NOW HIRING….

•SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS, No CDL Needed. Will Train.

At least 21 years of age; valid NY drivers license & at least three years driving experience with safe record. Starting Wage $16 /Hour. Apply to First Student online at: apply. firstgroupcareers.com or call 716-685-9864.

LEGAL NOTICE

RFP

REQUEST FOR BID Mark Cerrone, Inc. is requesting subcontractor and supplier proposals for the Buffalo Ave. Watermain Installation Project in Niagara Falls, NY for all scopes of work detailed in contract documents. Optional MWBE Pre-bid Meeting available upon request.

New York State Certified Minority, Woman, and Service Disabled Veteran Owned Business Enterprise participation is strongly encouraged.

Bidders can access contract documents, plans, and specification via the iSqFt website, or through estimator James Larcara (jlarcara@markcerrone.com) Proposals due to MCI by: December 18, 2017 at 3:00pm

NOW HIRING

MAP is a 501(c)3 nonprofit commited to nurturing the growth of a diverse & equitable community food system to promote local economic opportunity, access to affordable nutritious food & social change education.

Positions available: FARM to TABLE COORDINATOR YOUTH EDUCATION DIRECTOR MOBILE MARKET COORDINATOR Benefits may include vacation, sick time, fresh produce & healthcare.

APPLY TODAY AT www.mass-ave.org MAP is an equal opportunity employer.

MAP is committed to promoting diversity, multiculturalism & inclusion. MAP strives to build a staff that reflects the communities we serve.

271 Grant St Buffalo NY 14213

To Advertise, Email: advertising@thechallengernews.com

LEGAL NOTICE RFP REQUEST FOR BID Mark Cerrone, Inc. is requesting proposals for the Bridge Removal & Reconstruction of Exit 57 Terminus Project #D214577 in Hamburg, NY for all scopes of work detailed in contract documents. Optional MWBE Pre-bid meeting will be held 1/3/18 at 3:30pm at Mark Cerrone Office. Documents can be obtained by contacting gbostard@markcerrone.com, Phone 716-282-5244, Fax 716-282-5245 or iSqFt®. Bids due electronically or in person at 2368 Maryland Ave., Niagara Falls, NY 14305 by 1/8/18 @ 10:00am. Certified Minority and Woman Owned Business Enterprise participation is strongly encouraged.

LEGAL NOTICE BIDS

NFTA Procurement Invitation to Bid

4758 DISABILITY THIRD PARTY ADMINISTRATOR Download Bids from www. nfta.com

14

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 20, 2017

NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS advertising@thechallengernews.com

GIST BAIL BONDS

A-1 Bail Bonds 855-2514 or 854-2128

BOOKS ALIVE CHRISTIAN BOOKSTORE 2275 Fillmore Ave. (716) 837-1118 ZAWADI BOOKS 1382 Jefferson Ave. 716-903-6740

DOCTORS RAPHA FAMILY MEDICINE Frances IIozue MD 2200 Main St. (716) 200-4122

DOG TRAINING DOGMAN’S K -9 Obedience Training

1963 Fillmore Avenue (716) 807-8163

MID-9-1-1

SAT 12/16

EVE-7-8-6

EVE-6-9-6

MID-0-5-2

WIN 4

MID-8-1-8-2 EVE 2-8-8-0

MID-9-2-0-7 EVE-3-0-0-4

MID-2-3-6-5 EVE-0-3-9-5

MID-5-9-1-2 EVE-0-2-8-3

MID-7-1-4-8 EVE-6-1-7-1

MID-0-4-9-8 EVE-5-2-9-5

F& S Fashions

TAKE 5

06-08-10-25-39

22-23-26-28-29

01-13-32-36-39

FLORISTS

LOTTO

2372 Genesee St. (716) 894-3742

BAIL BONDS

MID-9-0-0

FRI 12/15

EVE-6-0-7

AUTO

(716) 896-3910

MID-9-4-3

THURS 12/14

EVE-9-1-6

EMPIRE ELECTRIC (716) 634-0330

716 E. Ferry (Near Fillmore)

WED 12/13

EVE-8-9-5

LAW OFFICE OF DARIA L. PRATCHER, PC “Everything Real Estate” 523 Main Street (716)541-8574

Colston Mobil Auto Repair

MID-2-2-5

TUES 12/12

EVE-6-6-2

ELECTRICAL

50 Sycamore (cor. Elm) (716) 856-1066 or 894-1483

MID-4-9-1

3-WAY

MON 12/11

EVE-3-7-6

ATTORNEYS

BEN’S Downtown Tire

SUN 12/10

MID-2-3-3

MID-0-5-6-8 EVE-8-4-5-7

FASHION

MAUREEN’S Flower Market 441 Ellicott St. * 852-4600

05-08-32-38-39

10-11-16-29-31

16-20-23-27-31

01-10-20-23-38

01-02-36-49-57-59 #38

HOT TIPS

4018

022

064

648

08-21-44-49-53-59 #40

996

515

140

HAIR SUPPLY MAIN HAIR & BEAUTY SUPPLY 3067 Main St. (716) 862-4247

HOME IMPROVEMENT HOMEOWNER;

Free Roof Check, Lead Test, All Home Repairs, Payment Plans, Everyone Approved 380-3459

TAILORS ANN RHOD’S Tailoring 3185 Bailey Ave. (716) 838-5633

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES MEREA WORLD Transportation Service Specializing in Round Trip & Over Night Trips Text or call 716 939-8892

Zakiyyah’s Rundown (ZR) 981-253-679-350-156-847-605-580-470-547-491-165-990-256035-068-475-176-970-370-198-513-522-809-507-647-350-760919-513-891-558-047-060-307-491-507-912-107-047-311-567239-865-791-085-473-165-789-247-567-543-136-705-892-965135-679-510-460-570-153-268-393-803-118-030-637-326-479 MA RUTH SPEAKS THE TRUTH! SURE HITS! 242-000-111-777-989-123125-436-515-600-349-675652-986-568-853-578-168

DECEMBER Vibes 854-214-894-190547-124 quick money 189-809-444 886-980-422 322-522-355 800-592-390 394-833-924 127-909-418 927-313-466 124-550511-005/201

“It’s In The Stars”

Aquarius -496-235-165-579 Pisces - 056-362-237-694 Cancer - 482-372-895-718 Aries - 289-946-034-594 Taurus -258-231-026-695 Gemini-495-257-694-508 Leo-345-213-157-201 Virgo 385-291-431-170 Libra -247-723-179-501 Scorpio - 453-253-571-597 Sagittarius - 389-701-234-924 Capricorn:893-275-342-506

THE NUMBER BOOK

GAMMA’S DECEMBER PICKS

302-536-741-394-164-870

DECEMBER Best Triple - 999 DECEMBER Special Doubles 662-711-919-422

900 NUMBER OF THE MONTH

Ask The Creator for guidance as to what your next step should be.

Challenger Hits

Midday

2-2-5 ZR, Quick Money, Luckie Duckie Box 9-4-3 Quick Money (box) 9-0-0 Number Book (box) 9-1-1 November Doubles (straight) 2-3-3 Luckie Duckie (box)

Evening

3-7-6 ZR (box) 8-9-5 Cancer (straight) 9-1-6 Lucky Duckie (box) 7-8-6 Number Book , Gamma Picks (box) 6-9-6 Hot Tips (box) LUCKIE DUCKIE

133-202- 335 -2015-4444-1871-0978 134-431-143

648*123*104*820

980-422-809-981-989-970-990-080-800515-996-390-196-102-581-752-319-408378-352-126-189-444-886-514- 332-522112-432-421-423

3-Way Winning Numbers Last Year

12/28/2016 Evening 12/28/2016 Midday 12/27/2016 Evening 12/27/2016 Midday 12/26/2016 Evening 12/26/2016 Midday 12/25/2016 Evening 12/25/2016 Midday 12/24/2016 Evening 12/24/2016 Midday 12/23/2016 Evening 12/23/2016 Midday 12/22/2016 Evening 12/22/2016 Midday 12/21/2016 Evening 12/21/2016 Midday 12/20/2016 Evening 12/20/2016 Midday

2016

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

15

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 20,, 2017

WEDNESDAY DEC. 20

SATURDAY DEC. 23

THURSDAY DEC. 28

King Center Charter School Literacy Night: 156 Newburgh Ave. 4-5 p.m. Free Screening of children and provides parents with reading ability, kindergarten readiness tips. Free refreshments!

Mike’s Smooth Urban Ballroom Dance Classes: 11 a.m.

– 1 p.m. Delavan-Grider Community Center, 877 E. Delavan.

380-5100. $5

The Durham Central City Baby Café . Info and support for pregnant and breastfeeding moms 5:30 – 7:30 pm 200 Eagle St. (716)427-0566.

TUESDAY DEC. 26

FRIDAY DEC. 29

Public Meeting: Board of the Westminster Community Charter School 12 noon at M&T Bank, One M&T Plaza - 19th Floor.

FIRST DAY OF KWANZAA: Kwanzaa Dedication, Black Liberation Flag Raising @ 12 Noon. Evening Program @ East Community High School, 820 Northampton; 7-9 p.m. Schedule Page 10.

Fourth Day of Kwanzaa: East Community High School, 820 Northampton; time change 6-9 p.m. Schedule Page 10.

Hustle for Health Senior Program : Gloria Parks, 3242 Main St. 11am - 12pm. FREE Line Dance Fitness for ages 55+ 716 832 -1010.

The Durham Central City Baby Café . Info and support for pregnant and breastfeeding moms 5:30 – 7:30 pm 200 Eagle St (716)427-0566.

Urban Line Dance Classes: St. Phillips, 15 Fernhill ; 6-8 p.m.; Cheri & Darel 200-9702.

THURSDAY DEC. 21 15th Annual Tree of Life: 6 to 8 p.m. (doors open @ 5:30); Community Health Center of Buffalo, 34 Benwood Avenue; Sponsored by The Community Health Center of Buffalo, Inc., We Are Women Warriors, Stop the Violence, Peacemakers, Fathers,True Bethel Baptist Church, No More Tears.

Celebrating Kwanzaa: Presented by We All Storytellers in cooperation with Zawadi Books, 4-5 p.m., Merriweather Library, Jefferson @ Utica; 883-4418; Free EM TEA COFFEE CUP CAFEHORSE-DRAWN CARRIAGES: Hot chocolate, cookie decoration, 5:30 – 7:30p.m. 80 Oakgrove @ Humboldt Parkway; free fun for all!

Foxie Brown Line Dance Classes: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Schiller Senior Center, 2057 Genesee St. 444-2046.

WEDNESDAY DEC. 27 Second Day of Kwanzaa: East Community High School, 820 Northampton; 7-9 p.m. Schedule Page 10.

Hustle for Health Senior Program : Gloria Parks, 3242 Main St. 11am - 12pm. FREE Line Dance Fitness for ages 55+ 716 832 -1010.

The Durham Central City Baby Café . Info and support for pregnant and breastfeeding moms 5:30 – 7:30 pm 200 Eagle St (716)427-0566.

Urban Line Dance Classes: St. Phillips, 15 Fernhill ; 6-8 p.m.; Cheri & Darel 200-9702.

THURSDAY DEC. 28 Third Day of Kwanzaa: East Community High School, 820 Northampton; 7-9 p.m. Schedule Page 10.

FOXIE BROWN LINE DANCE CLASSES: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Schiller Senior Center, 2057 Genesee St. 4442046.

Chicago Steppin: Every Friday 7-8:30 p.m. The Pratt Center 422 Pratt St. SATURDAY DEC. 30 Fifth Day of Kwanza: Children’s Kwanzaa 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Evening Program Nia Soul concert, 7-9 p.m.; both programs @ East High, 820 Northampton.

Schedule Page 10.

Mike’s Smooth Urban Ballroom Dance Classes: 11 a.m.

– 1 p.m. Delavan-Grider Community Center, 877 E. Delavan.

380-5100. $5 SUNDAY DEC. 31

Odds of getting enough sleep?

1 in yawn.

Odds of winning Take 5?

Sixth Day of Kwanzaa: Karamu Feast 6-9 p.m. See schedule page 10.

1 in 9.

MONDAY JAN. 1 Seventh/Last Day of Kwanzaa: 12 noon – 4 p.m. CA 1423 Fillmore. See schedule page 10.

MONDAY JAN. 8 African Consciousness Workshop: Frank Merriweather Library, Jefferson & Utica, “King- A Man of Peace in a Time of War”)” 6-8 pm, Free.

883-4418,

The Durham Central City Baby Café . Info and support for pregnant and breastfeeding moms 5:30 – 7:30 pm 200 Eagle St. (716)427-0566.

FRIDAY DEC. 22 Chicago Steppin: Every Friday 7-8:30 p.m. The Pratt Center 422 Pratt St. SATURDAY DEC. 23 FREE FOOD GIVEAWAY: Sponsored by The Arab American Business Association of Western New York, (AABA) 1 – 4 pm at the Martha Mitchell Community Center, 175 Oakmont Street.

©2017 New York Lottery. You must be 18 or older to purchase a lottery ticket. PLEASE PLAY RESPONSIBLY. For help with problem gambling, call 1-877-8-HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369). nylottery.ny.gov

16

Email legals & classifieds to: advertising@thechallengernews.com • Deadline Fridays @ 5pm

WELCOME BACK WILL! Images from the recent fundraiser held for Will Jones at Adams Mark in downtown Buffalo. Friends Family and Loved Ones came out to support our beloved Photographer and Publisher of Black Western NY. The evening was filled with music, food and love from the community eager to welcome him back and to continue forward with his solid recovery. We Love You Will !

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 20, 2017