Challenger Community News Feb 15, 2017

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February 15, 2017 • FREE www.thechallengernews.com VOICES

Human Trafficking: The Abduction of the Harris Family

PG. 11

INSIDE ROCHESTER

“Black Lives Matter at School”

PG. 2

PROTEST!

Small City…

BIG TALENT!

LOCAL

WLL HOLTON’S LOVE CADENZA RETURNS! PG. 8

PG. 3

Drea D’Nur and The Spirit of Nina Simone

PG. 3

PG. 10

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INSIDE ROCHESTER

Challenger Community News •thechallengernews.com •Februar y15, 2017

Rochester City School District to Hold “Black Lives Matter at School” Day for Students

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he Rochester City School District will hold “Black Lives Matter at School: A Day of Understanding & Affirmation,” for students on Feb. 17, as part of a larger, national initiative.

According to the district’s website, the day will not be a part of the larger “Black Lives Matter Movement;” however, it will be “a day of education, dialogue and action that will actively engage a significant number of educational communities throughout Monroe County, in activities which support understanding and affirmation of Black Lives.”

A small group of parents and teachers have proposed the voluntary observance, which has the support of the school board, the Rochester Teachers Association, and The Association of Supervisors and Administrators of Rochester, the district said.

And, although RCSD has received some pushback regarding its decision to hold the discussion; according to officials, the district’s decision to participate in the initiative does not mean that one student’s life is valued more than another’s life.

“It is especially important to highlight the value of Black lives in a society whose history involves centuries of slavery and denial of civil rights to Black citizens, the impacts of which continue to this day,” officials said. “Affirming one thing as valuable and deserving of attention does not automatically devalue another, just as when a parent says they love one child, they are not offending or excluding their other children. Similarly, saying that ‘Black lives matter’ does not mean that Brown, White or “blue” (police) lives don’t matter. It simply means that Black lives deserve special affirmation, understanding and attention in our district, and the rest of society right now.”

Fifty-seven percent of students in RCSD are Black, and educators said they plan to engage in respectful dialogue with students in classrooms across the city, in observance of the initiative *Free Biz Kids Camp During February Break: RCenters’ Biz Kid$ Camp, a free business education camp for youth ages 13 through 18. from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Feb. 20 through Friday, Feb. 24 at the Danforth Community Center, 200 West Ave. Information and applications are available online at www. cityofrochester.gov/bizkids or upon request by calling 4287098.

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AROUND TOWN Wed-Feb. 22 - “Annual Gospel Hour” - City Hall Atrium-30 Church Street12:15pm-1:15pm.

Gospel performances by Julius Dicks & Company.

*FREE BLACK HISTORY MONTH EVENT Friday Feb. 24, Ave. D Rec. Center 200 Ave.. D Rochester 2pm-5:30pm. Spaces open for Sponsors, Vendors, Speakers, Performers. If interested call or email 716-465-5648 YouthPrisonPrevention@ gmail.com *Keyshia Cole Sat 2/25 @ 7:30pm Rochester Auditorium Theatre, Rochester, NY *Annual “Supporters Day in honor of Charles Riley” February 17 Time 6 PM Venue: 219 Hamilton Street, headquarters of First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. Dinner will be served. *The Little Theatre is proud to announce The Black Cinema Series, presented in partnership with the Rochester Association of Black Journalists (RABJ). The series will begin during Black History Month with the critically acclaimed I Am Not Your Negro.

The Little Theatre is located at 240 East Avenue in Rochester.

(585) 258-0400.

THE BRONZE COLLECTIVE THEATRE FEST: Left to right”Anderson Allen, Ashona Puliam, Doug Curry and Vincenzo McNeil photo by Karen Culley

The Bronze Collective Theatre Festival The Bronze Collective Theatre Festival is hoping to infuse different kinds of African-American arts -- like theater, dance, and music -- into Rochester's theatrical scene this week. The festival brings together many accomplished local writers, actors, and other performers for "A Week's Infusion of African-American Theatrical Arts." The festival takes place at MuCCC now through Saturday, February 21.

To produce the festival, Curtis Rivers -- who has owned Mood Makers Books for more than 20 years and who has produced the annual Sankofa Evenings of Theatre and Jazz at MuCCC for seven years -joined forces with local theater artist Reuben Tapp. Tapp has acted in numerous plays since coming to Rochester in 2005, most recently in Blackfriars' "I'm Not Rappaport" last fall;

he also acted in Rivers' play "Talk" during last summer's Sankofa event.

But the Bronze Collective also brings together a host of African-American artists in numerous disciplines, many of whom are well-regarded in their community but hardly known outside of it. Rivers and Tapp say they hope this event -- which is purposefully offered during Black History Month -- will start to change that perception.

"Within the Rochester community there are approximately 10 African-American theater groups," Rivers says. "Many of us didn't even know of each other, let alone when we were performing. As a collective, we can network together, pool our resources, and cross-pollinate our talent."

This festival is the collective's inaugural endeavor. "We want to make people aware of the fantastic array of AfricanAmerican talent in Rochester, and the heritage of continuous, active arts organizations in our community, performing in all different kinds of places," Rivers says. "We really have not gotten the notice we deserve."

"With a collective, all have a voice," Tapp adds. "And each voice has a better chance of

being heard. Each group is autonomous; in planning the festival we told them, 'Do what you want to do.' But we all come together for a common cause: to get people in the seats."

The series begins on February 17, with a staged reading of "My People Perish" by the festival playwright-in-residence Jahaka Mindstorm.

The reading is directed by Reuben Tapp. Dance and theater intersect for Wednesday's "Art Collaboration Night" with two pieces written and directed by Reenah Golden. Thursday offers what Rivers calls "a blast from the past," a nod to literary history with scenes from CONTINUED PAGE 9

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Challenger Community News • thechallengernews•com February 15, 2017

AREA BRIEFS Deputy Speaker and Mrs. Eve to Be Honored at Democratic Chairman’s Reception Former Deputy Speaker of the NYS Assembly and one of the Challenger’s founding fathers Arthur O. Eve, and his wife Constance Bowles Eve will be honored at the annual Erie County Democratic Committee Chairman’s Cocktail Reception on Thursday, February 16 from 6-8 p.m. at Templeton Landing, 2 Templeton Terrace. Gov. Cuomo will be the honored guest.

“Help Kiarre Harris Get Her Family Back!”

A pro family rally in support of Kiarre Harris will be held this Thursday, Feb. 16 from 4 to 5p.m. in front of Erie County Family Court at 1 Niagara Square. Ms. Harris is the young woman who was arrested and had her children taken away from her after she decided to home school them. Help get justice for this mother and put a family back together that was wrongfully separated! (See Page 11 for more.)

Mark Schroeder to Announce Run for Mayor City Comptroller Mark J.F. Schroeder said that he will announce his campaign for mayor of the City of Buffalo on March 5. The event, which will kick off his run against three-term incumbent Mayor Byron W. Brown, will take place at the Historic Lodge, 212 Cazenovia Street. He is expected charge Mayor Brown’s administration with ignoring Buffalo’s neighborhoods at the expense of downtown and waterfront development. Brown has said he will contest those claims.

Buffalo’s 9th Homicide Mario Hayes, 41, was Buffalo’s most recent, and ninth homicide so far this year. Hayes was found shot dead in the 100 block of St. Louis Street February 3 after police responded to the call of a shooting at about 9:50 p.m. at Genesee and Ivy Streets.

Eva Doyle Presented with Citizen of the Month Award: At the regular session of the Erie County Legislature held in “Old County Hall” on Thursday, January 26, Erie County Legislator Barbara Miller-Williams (pictured right) presented Mrs. Eva M. Doyle with the Erie County Legislature’s Citizen of the Month Award for January 2017. Mother Doyle, as she is affectionately known, is a community leader, activist, historian, and columnist who is a lifelong resident of the 1st Legislative District. She has evolved her groundbreaking newspaper column “Eye on History” into a bi-weekly radio program and has created a billboard campaign which is seen throughout the community. She is the wife of the late Mr. Romeo Doyle Muhammad and has three children, grandchildren and great grandchildren who are also very active in the community. She can be heard live on WUFO 1080am on the first and third Tuesday of each month and information about her various programs can be found at www.evamdoyle.com.

Congratulations!

Marcus Garvey (left) &Noble Drew Ali

PROTEST! Demonstrators protested outside the Statler in downtown buffalo last Friday where Mayor Brown was having a big event.

After Policing Death, Community Demands Information, Transparent Investigation, and Policy Reform

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ast week the “City of Good Neighbors” awakened to the disturbing news that 20-yearold Wardell “Meech” Davis, an unarmed Black man, died after an encounter with the Buffalo Police Department on Hoyt Street. Concerned people of Buffalo demand and deserve a swift and painstakingly transparent inquiry into this man’s death.

While Buffalo Police Benevolent Association jumps into action to defend their member officers, it is up to public servants in City Hall, Erie County, and New York state to defend the justice to which every person is entitled. Thousands of Buffalonians, and millions around the world, are watching.

“Despite the best efforts to recognize the issues with Police in Buffalo, our elected leaders have continued to deny there is a problem when we have clear evidence that there is a crisis,” said John Washington, a community leader who works for PUSH Buffalo.

Every premature loss of life in Buffalo is tragic. When one happens on our streets, it rocks our families and neighborhoods. When it occurs at the hands of those who are sworn to protect and serve us — as early facts in this case indicate — it devastates public trust in a critical arm of civil society. A 2016 community policing survey and report published by Open Buffalo partners found that only 43 percent of residents believed that the police work well in their neighborhood, while 49 percent thought that the police do not respect young people, and 56 percent stated that the police do not respect people of color. Against national and local backdrops of division and distrust, events like this serve to make relations between community and police even more volatile.

“The story that we are being told by authorities is that there is no police problem or lack of training in Buffalo,” said Acour Dour, a member of the Justice and Opportunity Coalition.

“This is a complete contrast of what we see today, and it makes me fear for my life.”

“It’s unacceptable that we should have to endure this kind of treatment,” said Karima Amin, founder and director of Prisoners Are People Too. “It’s happening everywhere, and tomorrow it could happen to you.”

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, this tragedy underscores the need for the immediate revival of Buffalo’s Commission on Citizens’ Rights and Community Relations. It is entirely unacceptable that this body, whose mandate includes providing civilians oversight over cases of alleged police misconduct, currently has several unfilled civilian positions and is not effectively serving the community.

“A young man’s life was taken with no explanation, and our community demands answers and accountability,” said Washington.

Investigative Post reported in The Public last fall that the Buffalo Police Department has failed to update its training of officers in the use of force, weapons de-escalation standards.

Many departments across the country the report cited, have improved this type of raining to de-escalate potentially violent encounters with civilians and avoid Ferguson-type situations.

Council Member Wingo Announces Social Meeting With Law Enforcement

Councilmember Ulysees O. Wingo is hosting a Social Meeting with Law Enforcement, ”Can You Hear Me Now 716” on Thursday, February 23, at 6 p.m. at Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Arts , 450 Masten Ave. This community forum will engage residents and law enforcement in discussions purposed to facilitate under­standing and empathy during interactions. Last year, on September 6, 2016, The City of Buffalo Common Council adopted a resolution titled Social Meeting with Law Enforcement recommending quarterly social meetings with law enforcement in the Masten District to discuss current issues and future solutions. If you have any questions, please email Legislative Assistant to Councilmember Wingo, John Dunmore, at jdunmore@city­buffalo.com or call {716) -851-5146.

Marcus Garvey and Noble Drew Ali

Noble Drew Ali (who was born Timothy Drew, in North Carolina) (1886-1929) was the founder of the Moorish Science Temple of America. He first founded the Temple in Newark, N.J., in 1923 and soon there were branches in Pittsburgh, Detroit, and other major industrial cities of the northeast, especially in neighborhoods that had attracted mass black migration from the South.

Ali moved to Chicago in 1925 and it was there that his movement took on its greatest force.

Noble Drew Ali very much saw Marcus Garvey as an inspiration for his own efforts. He spoke of Garvey as a voice in the wilderness on the issue of racial pride, an orator and prophet who had prepared Black people to be receptive to Ali's own message.

Like Garvey, Ali preached the importance of developing unity among all peoples of the African diaspora.

Unlike the Garvey movement, which was predominantly Christian, and which adopted many of the rituals of Christian worship in its meetings, Noble Drew Ali stressed his belief that all Blacks, Asiatics, Turks, Arabs, and Latin Americans- what we would today describe as people of color--were in origin Moorish, or Moslem.

The connection, though, was an important one. Noble Drew Ali and others who urged Black people to feel Black pride and endorse clean living and the Muslim faith, and who pointed to the earlier teachings of Garvey, were in turn links to other important leaders and developments within the Nation of Islam. Importantly, Elijah Muhammad, leader of the Nation of Islam, praised both Ali and Garvey as forerunners for his own movement, and the legacy of Garveyism and Islam is continued in the work of Louis Farrakhan and others.

(Source: PBS Online Forum)

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NATIONAL + WORLD

Africa Not Holding Its Breath For Trump on Trade By Grant Clark, Urban News Service

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fter a two-year election campaign and weeks into his presidency, Africans still have no idea how Donald J. Trump plans to deal with this continent of 54 nations.

Since the launch of his political career, Trump has barely mentioned Africa, home to six of the 12 fastest-growing economies in the world, let alone share insight into his foreign policy thinking. All Africans, and anyone interested in U.S.-Africa relations, have got to go on are a few disparaging tweets, posted in the years before his run for office.

In one 2015 tweet, he called South Africa, the continent’s economic powerhouse, a “total and very dangerous mess”.

In another, he said: “every penny of the $7 billion going to Africa as per Obama will be stolen.”

Officially, the response to Trump’s presidency by African leaders has been muted.

But when two African countries were recently included in the executive order banning travel to the U.S. from six predominately Muslim countries, the outgoing head of the African Union Commission, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, lashed out, saying “The very country to whom our people were taken as slaves during the transatlantic slave trade, has now decided to ban refugees from some of our countries."

On social media and privately, many Africans regard Trump’s tone and his silence on Africa as part of a general negative attitude towards their continent. “When you watch the news in African countries, people are alarmed by what they see coming from the White House,” said Kwaku Nuamah, a lecturer at American University’s School of International Service in Washington.

But given America’s track record on African trade and investment, some in African business circles say they are neither surprised nor alarmed by the absence of any foreign policy direction on Africa.

“Many people were expecting closer relations [with the U.S.] while Obama was in there but that didn’t happen,” said Kebour Ghenna, director of the Ethiopia-based Pan-African Chamber of Commerce and Industry, a body representing African business.

“And they don’t expect that to change with Trump,” Ghenna said.

Nuamah agrees. “Expectations are very low. Whatever [Trump] does will exceed expectations,” he said.

The three previous U.S. administrations all had high-profile programs aimed at boosting aid, trade and investment in Africa. In 2000, President Bill Clinton enacted the African Growth and Opportunities Act (AGOA), which enabled qualified African nations to grow exports by allowing duty-free access to American markets. President George Bush introduced the President’s Emergency Plan For Aids Relief (PEPFAR), providing billions of dollars in aid to fight the continent’s HIV/Aids pandemic.

President Obama maintained both those initiatives and launched a few of his own, in historic fashion. In his second term, he announced a $45 billion energy project seeking to electrify 60 million African homes and businesses as well as other efforts to promote Americans doing business in Africa.

Obama went on to become the first American president to host a U.S-Africa Summit with African heads of state at the White House in 2014, intended to strengthen relations. Yet his efforts paled in comparison to those of another foreign power deeply engaged with Africa: China. It was a disappointment for some in a president with personal ties to the motherland.

China surpassed the U.S. as Africa’s biggest trading partner in 2009. Sino-African trade has grown in leaps and bounds since, rising to $210 billion in 2013 – more than double that of the U.S-Africa trade in goods that year.

America’s trade with African nations, on the other hand, dropped from $125 billion in 2011 to $99 billion the following year to $85 billion in 2013, according to Washington-based think tank, the Brookings Institution. Last year, Obama announced that U.S direct investment in Africa had risen 70 percent during his presidency. But it still lagged behind China. ‘ At an annual China-Africa Summit in South Africa in 2015, China pledged to invest another $60 billion in loans and investments into African development. The main sectors benefiting were transportation, such as rail and road infrastructure development, energy and mining.

Meanwhile, Trump has all but declared a trade war with China. Should he fulfill campaign promises, they could include officially labeling China a currency manipulator and bringing trade cases against China in the U.S. and with the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Whether Trump will decide to take his fight to the Chinese on African soil is anyone’s guess, although some analysts suggest that his “America First” outlook suggests a dialing back of American engagement on the global stage.

But challenging China as a competitor for economic dominance in Africa is a battle the U.S. is unlikely to win, Ghenna said. “There is already a momentum with China that is difficult to restrain.”

A n s w e r i n g y o u r q u e s t i o n s a b o u t c r e m a t i o n a n d b u r i a l . . .

“How many people can be buried in a cemetery lot?”

If you have any questions about cremation or burial, give us a call at (716) 885-1600.

Most cemeteries allow 1 or 2 burials in a single grave. At Forest Lawn, we recently changed our rules & regulations to allow up to 4 burials in a single grave, w hich can include 1 casket plus 3 urns or a total of 4 urns.

For example, if a couple chooses side-by-side casketed burial in 2 graves, there’s room for them and up 6 other members of their family. This can represent a significant cost savings for the family. But more importantly, it can make it possible for you and your dearest loved ones to remain together forever.

1411 Delaware Ave ● Buffalo, NY 14209 forest-lawn.com

Challenger Community News •thechallengernews.com •Februar y15, 2017

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Challenger Community News • thechallengernews.com • February 15, 2017

National Alliance on Mental Illness Support Meetings

*Wednesday, February 15th at 7 p.m., at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 4007 Main St. and Tuesday, *February 21st: CITY of Buffalo: 5-6:30 p.m. at Lake Shore Behavioral Health Services, 951 Niagara St Call the NAMI office at 716-226-6264 for more information. There is no charge to the community for these services.

Get Your Pantry Popping! Part 3

The Truth About Cow’s Milk to change a man’s religion than to change his “Itdiet”is easier Margaret Mead

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ver the past couple of weeks, we have been focusing on some small changes and pantry swaps that if implemented will have a positive impact on our health. This week I want to introduce a swap that can mean a very big deal for some of us. In fact, this swap will go against everything we’ve been taught.

Ever since I can remember I’ve heard the mantra, “milk does a body good”. We have been taught to almost instinctively know that milk is the best source of calcium, vitamin D, protein and an overall necessity to grow up healthy and strong. But what if I told you this wasn’t quite true? What if I told you that cow’s milk could do more harm than good and there is a healthier and safer alternative to cow’s milk?

The Truth About Cow’s Milk To keep up with the demand for milk, cows are injected with bovine growth hormone called rBGH/rBST to stimulate milk production. rBGH/rBST is genetically modified and made from E. coli bacteria. Cows given rBGH/rBST are more likely to develop mastitis, which is inflammation and infection in the mammary tissue and udders. This leads to pus and blood that can pass through to the milk. Cows are then injected with antibiotics to treat the infections and other health problems that arise.

When you drink your tall, cold glass of milk from cows treated with rBGH/rBST, you are most likely drinking contaminated milk. rBGH/rBST is banned in Canada, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and the 27 countries of the European Union which then leads one to ask why is it allowed in the United States.

In addition to the contamination, milk from cows treated with rBGH/rBST have higher levels of IGF-1. IGF-1 has been linked as a contributor to tumor development in certain cancers, specifically breast, prostate and colorectal cancers. There are also concerns like the early onset of puberty and genetic problems.

The Vitamin D in milk is fortified, meaning it is added to milk from an artificial source. Vitamin D is not naturally occurring in milk. The calcium present in milk is negated by the protein in milk, which pulls the calcium from the bones, leading to osteoporosis.

Cow’s milk is for cows not humans.

Based on the evidence presented, cow’s milk has no nutritional value. The dairy industry has used marketing tactics for many Kathleen years to convince us of our need for it. If RICHARDSON you must drink cow’s milk, please buy organic cow’s milk or milk that specifically says on the carton, “from cows not treated with rBGH/rBST”.

What are the alternatives to Cow’s Milk?

There are many alternatives to cow’s milk. There is almond milk, cashew milk, coconut milk, hazelnut milk and coconut milk. These non-dairy milk alternatives contain calcium, manganese, selenium, iron, potassium and other minerals without the contamination or the harmful protein found in cow’s milk. I use vanilla almond milk in cereal and buy unsweetened almond milk for cooking and baking.

In this series, we have been focusing on eating and drinking food as close to its natural state as possible and avoiding any artificial and genetically modified ingredients. This causes us to take a good look at an item that has been a staple in our homes for years. It may be hard, but it’s necessary to get your pantry popping…

Kathleen Richardson is a Certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, spe cializing in weight management, Type II Diabetes and Hypertension management and making the switch to Organic and Non-GMO

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FAITH & FAMILY

Challenger Community News •thechallengernews.com • February 15, 2017

Humboldlt Parkway Baptist to Honor Brother David Women’s Prayer Ministry Black History Program James Davis, Minister of Music The members of the Humboldt Parkway Baptist Church, where Reverend John T. Hilliard is Pastor; will present an Appreciation Worship Service honoring our Minister of Music for 51 years, Brother David James Davis, fondly known as “Jimmy.”

This event will take place on Sunday February 19 at 4:00 pm at Humboldt Parkway Baptist Church, 790 Humboldt Parkway, The public is invited to join us in this celebration of love, music ministry and dedication!

“Men In Concert”

The 80th Church Anniversary Committee of the New Hope Baptist Church of Niagara Falls, NY will present “Men in Gospel Concert.” on Sunday, February 19, at 4 p.m. The following choruses will perform: Bethany Baptist Church, Mt. Erie Baptist Church, New Hope Baptist. Soloists will be Rev. John H. Caldwell of Emmanuel Baptist Church and Brother Mickey Dumas,Potter’s House Christian Community Church. For additional information, contact the church at 282-8118. Julia Franklin, Publicity Chair

An Uncommon Miracle Healing and Deliverance Crusade Service An Uncommon Miracle Healing and Deliverance Crusade Service will be held on Friday Feb. 17, at the Salvation Army 960 Main Street 6 p.m. Prayer, Service Starts At 7Pm. Host: The Holy Spirit and Anita Williams, Pastor.716-891-4760/507-1931

The Women’s Prayer Ministry will hold their Annual Black History Program at Mt. Aaron Baptist Church, 540 Genesee Street, Monday February 20 (Presidents Day) at 12 noon. Featured will be “YOUTHS” speaking, singing and praise dancing to honor our RICH BLACK HISTORY!

Black History Musical The Great Lakes Baptist Association Women’s Auxiliary will present its Black History Musical Celebration -HOPE IN THE MIDST OF ADVERSITY- at 7:00 p.m. Friday, February 17, at Humboldt Parkway Baptist Church, 790 Humboldt Parkway. Rev. John T. Hilliard host pastor. Rev. William Gillison moderator.

Calvary CME Continues Black History Month Celebration Calvary CME Church, located at 1007 Ellicott Street, continues its Black History Month Celebration: *February 19, Dr. Barbara Seals Nevergold, President of the Buffalo School Board, will have her biography read. Calvary’s own, Mrs. Nellie B. King, former Superintendent of the Lackawanna School System, will round out our Distinguished Educators Series on February 26.

This all happens during our Sunday morning service which begins at 10:30 am. Calvary CME Church is located at 1007 Ellicott Street, where Rev. Larry E. Moore is the Pastor. *On February 18 from 10am-2pm, Calvary CME Church will be taking a Community Walking Tour of some of our own unique educational organizations and businesses along Jefferson Avenue (between East Utica and East Ferry Streets). Zawadi Book Store, The Frank E. Merriweather, Jr. Library, and the Apollo Theater Media Center will be highlighted on this tour.

We encourage every one of all ages to walk and learn about these special places in our Community which are continuing to grow and expand our cultural enrichment. *On Thursday, February 16 at 8pm. Calvary CME Church will be attending UB’s 41st Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration Keynote Speech by former Attorney General of the United States, Mr. Eric H. Holder, Jr., who served under President Barack Obama, from 2009 to 2015. *On Sunday, February 26, we will be having our African Attire Day. All are welcomed to join us for our Free Community Breakfast (sponsored by Project Feed) from 8am-9am. Worship service starts at 10:30am. After morning service there will be a Soul Food Dinner. For more information, contact Ruby Wilson at 716 228-4028 or Eula Hooker at 716-812-8878.

Women’s Prayer Ministry Black History Program

The Women’s Prayer Ministry will hold their Annual Black History Program at Mt. Aaron Baptist Church, 540 Genesee Street, Monday February 20 (Presidents Day) at 12 noon. r gospel choir, Ascending Church Choir, and many more! Bessie Patterson is the chairperson, and Rev. Dwayne Jones is the pastor.

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Challenger Community News • thechallengernews•com February 15, 2017

Activist To Councilmember Pridgen:

“It was me who ‘heart bombed’ 204 High Street…”

But Says she can’t take credit for ‘Shame on City Hall’ Sign

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ast week Council Member Darius Pridgen responded to a sign anonymously placed on a city owned vacant building in Buffalo’s Fruit Belt neighborhood at 204 High Street that read “Save this Building” and “Shame on City Hall.”

He said that he believed the people who did it did not even live in the neighborhood and that in the past there was a move to landmark the building, but the people living in the Fruit Belt didn’t want to landmark the property, in fact he says they wanted to demolish it.

He called on the “outsider” who put up the signs to come forward.

On Monday Veronica Hemphill Nicholas ,of the Fruit Belt/McCarley Gardens-Housing Task Force - very much a Fruit Belt “insider” - “came out” in a letter to Councilmember Pridgen, and publically revealed her involvement.

“Dear Honorable Pridgen,” she wrote, “ It's time for me to come out of the closet. Yes, it was me who Heart Bombed 204 High Street Saturday, February 11, 2017 at approximately 12:30 p.m. And I brought friends whom you will meet shortly. I wasn't trying to be anonymous since there was a crowd of witnesses present and I do live in the Fruit Belt. “ I cannot take credit for the black and white ‘Shame on City Hall’ sign but I commend whoever did it and Heart Bomb is something Preservawould like to meet them so they can join my team.”

In response to the councilmember’s charge of tres- tionists started 5 years ago. Around they put up valentine decpassing she noted: “If what I did was trespassing and Valentine’s orations on neglected structures with against the law, are medical corridor workers taking a message of love for the building and their smoke break on the steps of 204 High St. consid- surrounding neighborhood. ered trespassing and against the law? ” She continued: “Also, back in 2014, we submitted over 700 electronic and hardcopy signatures from Fruit Belt residents and friends of the Fruit Belt to you and the Common Council to stop any demo orders and to have it landmarked, but we were denied landmark status. And the statement that the residents of the Fruit Belt want it demolished applies only to a few people who testified against it because of allegations of child molestation from a former doctor.

Councilmember Pridgen told News 4 that the other issue the posted signs say is “demand action.”

There’s a moratorium preventing the city from selling about 200 city-owned properties in the Fruit Belt, and 204 High Street he said is one of those.

“As gentrification occurs, the people who live in the Fruit Belt and pay taxes in the Fruit Belt were afraid that the city would sell the 200 plus lots to outsiders,” said Pridgen.

He said when the moratorium is lifted, he wants Fruit Belt residents to have a say in controlling their destiny.

Legislator Grant Will Honor George K. Arthur With February Citizen of The Month Award Betty Jean Grant, 2nd.District - Erie County Legislator, will present the Honorable George K. Arthur Erie County Legislature’s ‘Citizen of the Month’ award on February 23.

Mr. Arthur is a former Erie County Board Supervisor (prior to the founding of the County Legislature), Buffalo Council Member- at -Large and Common Council President. He was the third African American (behind Ambrose Lane and Arthur O. Eve, Sr.) to run for Mayor of Buffalo, when he ran in 1985. He is also a curator for the famous Nash House Museum and serves on the board of the Michigan Avenue Historic Corridor and the Michigan Avenue Preservation Corp..

Mr. Arthur’s family members, friends and the community are invited George K Arthur to join him in this joyful celebration . In honor of Black History Month. refreshments will be served immediately after the ceremony. Poetry recitations and music by well known musicians will also be part of this Erie County Black History program. The event will be held at the Old County Hall, 4th Floor, 92 Franlin St. at 2pm. Please join us there! .

Buffalo State to Hold Retirement Celebration for Vice President Hal Payne

The Buffalo State College community will gather on Friday, February 17, at 3:30 p.m. in the Campbell Student Union Social Hall to celebrate the 27-year career of Hal D. Payne, who will retire from the college effective May 30. He stepped down as vice president for student affairs on December 31, 2016, to work with Katherine Conway-Turner, president of the college, on special assignments focused on community outreach during the remainder of the 2016–2017 academic year.

God's Unfailing Word, Songs Of Hope And Praise Brought Us Thus Far The Great Lakes Baptist Association Women's Auxiliary will present its Black History Musical Celebration -HOPE IN THE MIDST OF ADVERSITY- at 7:00 pm Friday, February 17, 2017 at Humboldt Parkway Baptist Church, 790 Humboldt Parkway.

Come and be uplifted in mind, body and spirit by the Humboldt Parkway Baptist Church Mass Choir and the Billups Singers renditions of traditional spirituals and contemporary praise reflective of hope, faith and victory.

Rev. John T. Hilliard host pastor. Rev. William Gillison moderator. Rose Harmon president.

WORSHIP THIS WEEK

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ENTERTAINMENT

Challenger Community News •thechallengernews.com •Februar y15, 2017

Small Ciy...BIG TALENT!

Will Holton’s Love Cadenza Returns!

S

ince 2008, Buffalo native and internationally known songwriter / saxophonist Will Holton has presented concerts featuring music industry Legends of Jazz and R&B such as Najee, Roy Ayers and Jon B. His latest concert series, Love Cadenza, has, over the past three years, featured up and coming talent as well as some of the Queen City’s best.

This Saturday, February 18 at the Metropolitan Entertainment Complex, the talented and visionary Holton will present Love Cadenza Part 3.

It promises to be a concert unlike any he’s presented before.

We talked with “the man with a big heart for his city” about the show and the production’s amazing performers.

Why do you do these shows?

“Simply said UNITY and exposure for all involved! Baby Boomers, Generation X and Millennials all together on one stage. My concert audience is mainly between the ages of 35-65 and this is the audience that still will purchase CD’s and follow you beyond just social media. Some of these younger artists are just hip to social and this is where the disconnect sometimes will happen. So I’m honored to be able to provide this platform.

It’s like being reborn musically. I’m a full supporter of artists who take the leap into the original music realm. It takes guts and sometimes for locals, the glory is minimal.

The mental and financial investment it takes is significant… hundreds of hours (trying to write the next hit), and thousands of dollars invested into recording, marketing, school, duplication, booking your own shows all in hopes to live your life’s dream. True determination is needed, as the ultimate goal is to have a successful career and not just one successful album.”

Tell us about the artists performing?

Well where do I begin with such a line up?

Maya Satterwhite has such a star power about her. She’s a real performer, a great singer and she also has released her debut album entitled NEXT VERSE. Mia Riot is a pianist and a great singer / songwriter. I have worked with her in the studio and if you missed her at last years Love Cadenza - she was “simply amazing.”

Vocalist Erinn Benning has deep gospel roots with her church background. Her sound is soulful.

Lindsay Niccs I believe is one of Buffalo’s best singers, very organic and is pitch perfect.

Tifani “R&B Soul Diva” is a singer /songwriter who has performed in Atlanta, Toronto and has a couple albums out of her own. She’s hypnotic!

Joey Diggs is “Buffalo Music Hall of Fame Inductee 2016.” Since I launched my first record (2008) he and I have worked together a few times. I call him the “velvet voice.” His years of experience from Rick James, Taylor Made Jazz and others is unmatched to anyone I have met.

The way he works that stage and sings so effortlessly is simply amazing!

Brian Freeman is a world class trumpeter who has toured the world with Taylor Made Jazz performing for the Department of Defense.

Nikki “Muthasoul” Hicks has performed around the country in various genres rock, R&B, jazz and gospel.

She is the most versed artist

Event Particulars What: Will Holton’s Love Cadenza Part 3

Who: Will Holton, Mia Riot,

Tifani, Brian Freeman, Erinn Benning, Lindsay Niccs, Maya

By Name, Joey Diggs, Nikki Hicks, and Doobie Powell When: Saturday February 18th ;7pm Door 8pm Show Where: Metropolitan Entertainment Complex 1670 Main Street Buffalo, NY Cost : $35 advance & $40 day of performance Included : Live Concert, Open Bar, Appetizers and After Party with 93.7 WBLK’s DJ Wire

on the stage and one of Buffalo ‘s most known artists.

The headliner of the Love Cadenza is none other than Hartford, Connecticut’s own Doobie Powell. A producer, singer, songwriter and drummer, he has written for Stellar Award Winner Kim Burrell and 12 Time Grammy Nominated vocalist - Musiqsoulchild. Doobie is world renowned for his gospel recordings and he has 8 albums to date - some of which feature the Grammy award win-

ning Robert Glapser and the gospel quartet The Williams Singers.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I just want Buffalo to know I really am thankful for their continued support through the years and we all look forward to performing for you all this weekend. We are a small city with BIG TALENT!!

ENTERTAINMENT

Challenger Community News • thechallengernews.com • February 15, 2017

Review by Matt Bauer

In It To Win It Concert Review: Uncle Charlie is Still Outstanding The crowd at the Key Bank Center last Saturday night couldn’t have asked for a better early Valentine’s Day celebration than the In It To Win It Tour which featured Charlie Wilson, Fantasia and Johnny Gill.

Audience members were still streaming into the arena at 7 o’clock when Gill took the stage with his 1990 classic “Fairweather Friend.” Dapper in a bright blue suit, Gill performed a somewhat rushed yet still splendid 35 minute set featuring such highlights as “My My My”complete with a visit out to the audience with long stem roses in hand. With the BET miniseries The New Edition Story still fresh in the minds of the crowd, he performed a heartfelt “Can You Stand The Rain” while also rocking the congas and timbales on a blistering cover of Maze’s “Before I Let Go.” Resplendent in a silver short skirt that evoked Tina Turner (even covering “Proud Mary” at one point in her set) Fantasia not only delivered expected hits like “Free Yourself” and “Without Me” with fiery, transcendent aplomb but also showcased a compelling tribute to the African-American musical tradition with nods to D.C. Go Go (EU’s “Da Butt”) The Minneapolis Sound (The Time’s “The Bird”) and even James Brown. During an intense “Sleeping With The One I Love” she had a cape dropped on her a la the Godfather of Soul. It all could have come off as tacky imitation yet with Fantasia’s vocal mastery every note rang soulfully true.

A short autobiographical video that told Charlie Wilson’s rags to riches, riches to rags and back again story introduced Wilson who opened with the somber title track from his upcoming album In It To Win It but everything shifted into an invigorating gear with two Gap Band classics: “Party Train” and “Early In The MornCharlie Wilson ing.” The jubilant vibe didn’t let up during Wilson’s hour and forty-five minute set which incorporated lasers and multi-colored wardrobe effects.

Given the now 64 year old Wilson’s past battles with addiction ( he was homeless from 1993-1995) and prostate cancer it wouldn’t be an overstatement to label him an R&B Lazarus. It certainly seemed that way as dry ice filled the stage during the poignant “You Are” and Wilson gave Saturday Service, testifying and celebrating 22 years of sobriety before ending the show with “Outstanding,” as infectious a party starter as it was a quarter century ago and an appropriate description of the In It To Win It tour.

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Paul Robeson Theatre Welcomes Back Carlos R.A. Jones

B

uffalo State College and the African American Cultural Center will collaborate on a fund raiser production for the Theatre entitled, Buck, Boogie, Bop and Beyond: The Black and Brown of Broadway Musical. The production is conceived, directed and choreographed by Carlos Jones, Associate Dean of the School of Arts and Humanities at Buffalo State College.

Buck, Boogie, Bop and Beyond is a homage to the contributions of artists from the African diaspora to American musical theater, it is song, dance and a narrated musical review developed and mounted on students from Buffalo State’s Theater and Music departments.

Mr. Jones has a body of work that extends from the concert state to theater to television and film. His eclectic background has brought him recognition as an international artist.

Concert Appearances include Loretta Livingston, Bethune Theatredanse, Dance Kansas City Modern/Jazz Company and his own Carlos Jones & Company. Theatrical Credits : Some Like it Hot, Man of La Mancha, It’s a Pretty Good Life and Sesame Street Live. Movies : I’ll Do Anything, Dance With Me, and Uptown Girls. Television Series: Cybil, Howie, the Nanny, and the Drew Carey Show. Concert Works: San Jose Dance Company, Movement Source, Dance Spectrum Alaska, Adage Repertory Company, Jazz Antiqua Music & Dance Ensemble.

Theatrical Directing and Choreography includes Four Guys Name Jose and Una Mujer Names Maria, History of White Music, Saucy Jack and the Space Vixens, Reefer Madness, West Side Story, Black Nativity, She Hysteric, a one woman show with SNL veteran Ellen Gleghorne, Once Upon a Mattress under the direction of Carol Burnett and Hair directed by Broadway legend Andre DeShields. All of the aforementioned are just to name a few.

Mr. Jones has worked extensively in arts education and community arts programming The Paul Robeson Theatre is proud to present this working collaboration with Mr. Jones and Buffalo State College. Buck, Boogie, Bop and Beyond will run February 17 & 18 at 8:00pm and Sunday February 19 at 4pm. For additional information please call the Center at 884-2013.

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EMPRESS LAHBEE: Buffalo continues to produce extraordinary new talent.

Empress Lahbee, is one such example. She was on hand for the First Anniversary Celebration of the Main Street Gallery downtown on January 27. Her new CD, “Transitions” is impressive, especially tracks 3,4 5 and 9 (Forget You, Kinda Love, Little Star and Lost Souls respectively) It was executive produced by MusicKnot Entertainment and mastered by Kid Kold. The lovely songstress Empress Lahbee is one to watch!

see you at the events!

BRONZE THEATRE COLLECTIVE FEST continued from page 2 the plays of the great African-American writer James Baldwin, as presented by David Shakes and the North Star Players.

Djed Snead's play "The Love that Hate Produced" is a commentary on "The Hate that Hate Produced," Mike Wallace's famous 1959 TV exposé of the Nation of Islam. The writer combines his script -- a dialogue for two actors -- with footage from the original documentary to create the production.

On Saturday, an afternoon salon features three short films by David Taylor, a scriptwriter for the Spike Lee movie "Drop Squad," followed by discussions. The evening is a family night, in which young people can come dressed as figures in African-American history, then take part in a pageant called "Kings and Queens."

"One of the great things about Rochester is that it has such a strong, healthy theatrical community in general," Tapp says, calling this week's event "a big cross-section of art forms." He thinks this is true of theater in general: "It encompasses the rest of the arts: visual arts, dance, music, multimedia.

"The arts are a uniter. The way generations communicate their values to each other is through art. And we are stronger together when our bonds are united in the arts."

Rivers adds, "Black culture is traditionally conveyed to the rest of society through the arts -- dance, music, even sports -- for good or bad. What we really want to get across is that this is theater for everybody. It's not exclusively for AfricanAmerican audiences, it is relevant to white, black, Hispanic, or any other kind of audience. We are all people who all have the same wants, problems, and desires. Same eggs, different spice."

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Challenger Community News •thechallengernews.com •Februar y15, 2017

Drea D’Nur and the Spirit of Nina Simone: Buffalo State Men’s Basketball Senior Day! A Concert You Don’t Want to Miss!

This musical and visual homage will feature Drea D’Nur on stage at Kleinhans Music Hall singing Nina Simone classics accompanied by a 10-piece jazz ensemble with creative musical direction by Karen Saxon, modern dance choreography by Robin Hibbert, select string section directed by Juliette Jones, monologue by Shantinna Moore of Ujima Co., Inc. and a special tribute to Emile Latimer. It all happens on February 24 at 8 p.m.

O

Drea D’Nur and the Spirit of Nina Simone

ERIE COUNTY YOUTH BUREAU 2017 REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL TO PROVIDE “SUMMER PRIMETIME” PROGRAMMING The Erie County Youth Bureau (ECYB) is pleased to announce its 2017 Request for Proposal (RFP) for 2017 funding of “Summer Primetime” programming on February 14th, 2017. Applications from eligible not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organizations & local youth bureaus will be accepted until March 14th at 5:00PM. Eligible programs promote positive youth development, addressing longterm juvenile delinquency prevention & summer learning loss within Erie County to youth ages 6-18 for a minimum of six weeks.

The application may be downloaded from the ECYB website or by contacting Ben Hilligas, Youth Bureau Director, at 716-923-4051 or benjamin.hilligas@erie.gov.

An open informational meeting will be held on February 28th, 2017 at 10:30AM at Erie 1 BOCES, Building B, Room B2A&B (355 Harlem Road, West Seneca, NY 14224).

n February 24, Drea d’Nur and Kleinhans Music Hall will present “The Spirit of Nina”. The audience will experience d’Nur singing 12 of Nina Simone’s songs accompanied by a 10-piece jazz ensemble with Creative Music Director Karen Saxon; Modern dance choreography by (Alvin Ailey Theatretrained) Robin Hibbert; Select string section directed by Violinist Juliette Jones; a moving monologue by Shanntina Moore of Ujima Co., Inc. and a special tribute to Buffalo guitarist and percussionist, Emile Latimer, who toured with Nina Simone.

Singer and songwriter Drea d’Nur has been making an impact as an independent artist for 10 years. Always a fan of Nina Simone, she has now created a tribute to this talented legend. Drea is known for moving audiences with blue musical chords and matching warm vocal tones which serve as a fearless voice for those who are hurting. She shines as a dedicated music artist with true musicality and spirit reminiscent of her influences, Nina Simone, Bob Marley, and Lauryn Hill. In celebrating Nina Simone’s artistic soul and contribution to American music Drea has planned numerous events during the month of February that will educate, inspire and entertain a diverse audience.

The musical presentation will be hosted at the historic Klienhans Music Hall, home of the Buffalo Philharmonic beginning at 8:00 am. Tickets can be purchased at: OFFICIALDREADNUR.COM, Doris Records (Buffalo NY) and at Kleinhans Music Hall kleinhansbuffalo.org/event/the-spirit-of-nina-simone.

Looking for safe, fun & affordable child care during school vacations? *A qualified staff member will lead children in arts & crafts projects, various physical activities, and homework help *Children will have the opportunity to make new friends and build a connection with their community

Try the Delavan Grider Community Center!

877 East Delavan Ave Buffalo, NY 14215 (716) 896-7021

EOC Enrolling for High School Equivalency Classes The UB EOC is now enrolling students for our 4th quarter High School Equivalency classes. These classes are offered Monday through Thursday during the day beginning February 27th . If you know of anyone that may be interested please have them contact us at 716.645.1900 or visit the Admissions Office at 555 Ellicott St. Students must bring ID and proof of income before being scheduled for Orientation.

(Left to right) Lovell Smith, Jordan Chateau, Nico McLean, Leon Moise and Jordan Glover

This Saturday, Feb. 18 at 5:30 p.m. is Buffalo State Men’s Basketball Senior Day, marking the end of what some would say, is one of the best, if not the best, senior class to ever play basketball for the BENGALS! Lovell Smith is a 6’ 2 forward from McKinley H.S. where he led them to the State Championship in 2013! His scoring average has gone up each season from 3.5 his freshman season to his current team leading 19.9 pts a game. “Vell,’ as he is affectionately called, constantly out leaps taller opponents and has had some highlight reel dunks during his 4 years as a BENGAL. Lovell is also Co-Captain of the BENGALS. Last year Lovell made the All – SUNYAC team. Jordan Chateau (aka “J.C.”), is a 6’ 7 center from Lowell H. S. in Bayside NY. This criminal justice major transferred to Buffalo State for his junior year! Although he has been hampered by a foot injury he is still in the top 10 in SUNYAC in blocked shots and offensive rebounds! There probably isn’t a more athletic big man in the league!

Nico McLean is a 6’ 1 guard from Amherst H. S. Nico’s career started in 2010 when he was a freshman on the BENGALS championship team. After his sophomore year he took a couple of years off and returned to school in 2015. Nico is probably considered one of the toughest players to ever put on a BENGALS jersey! His leadership will be critical if the BENGALS hope to return to the SUNYAC Championship! Last year Nico made the All SUNYAC team! Leon Moise is a 6’ 8 center from Thomas Jefferson H. S. in Brooklyn NY. This “gentle giant” has been in the SUNYAC top 5 of shot blockers for the past 2 years. His total of 87 career blocks has him in the top 5 all time at Buffalo State! Jordan Glover is a 6’ 2 guard from St Joes Collegiate institute. Considered to be the BENGALS glue, Jordan has worked hard to earn the respect of all of those within SUNYAC. The league leader in steals makes Jordan a threat to pick the opponents pocket at a moment’s notice! This writer believes that the BENGALS fortunes are tied into how well Jordan performs this weekend and beyond. Jordan is also a Co Captain of the BENGALS! With all the bad press our youth get (especially young Black men), it is great to see some positive role models who are all excellent students, respectful men and pretty good ball players too. This Saturday, at 5:30, these 5 seniors will be honored before tip-off of their final regular season game vs SUNY Fredonia. All community groups and church groups are welcome to attend as guests of the Buffalo State BENGALs! For more info please call Coach Fajri Ansari at 858-6519!

VOICES

Challenger Community News • thechallengernews.com • February 15, 2017

Human Trafficking: The Abduction of the Harris Family

dear editor

B

y now, news of the arrest of home schooling mother Kiarre Harris and the seizure of her children has made its way around the world. Let’s just call it what it is. Let’s just rip the cover off of the legal trade in human beings that includes all of the elements of the label reserved for the lowliest, most detested miscreants in our societies. They break into people’s homes, or snatch them off the streets, and drag them off to be parceled out; marketed to the various systems in the racket that are carefully designed to get a piece of the action. As long as the unwarranted, baseless arrest of a mother who has done no wrong, and the forcible, traumatic snatching of her children enjoys the respectable terminology of respectable agency operations, we will continue to afford it a legitimacy it does not deserve, and to be confused about just who is the criminal here.

By now you know that Kiarre Harris followed the proper procedure SABIRAH for withdrawing her children from school after deciding to teach them at home. You know that the school reported her to Child Protection Ser- MUHAMMAD vices after the children did not return to school, and that agents came with police to take her children without the necessary order for removal. You know that when Ms. Harris verbally objected, police arrested her, enabling the CPS agent to take the children, since the arrest of their mother now left them without a caretaker. See how that worked? There were no good options here. If Ms. Harris hadn’t objected, the police and the agent would have said that she consented to the removal. Talk about a “catch 22.” They threw her in jail, and initially refused to place her traumatized young children with a family member. Despite clear evidence of Ms. Harris’ lawful compliance and obvious lack of neglect, Judges have since refused their return and have limited her visits with them to two hours per week.

The formal definition of human trafficking has a wide range, including familiar components like sex slavery, organ theft, and forced labor. Don’t doubt for a minute that what happened here fits the definition as well, specifically the following Wikipedia description: “human trafficking is a crime against the person because of the violation of the victim’s rights of movement through coercion, and because of their commercial exploitation.” Let’s be clear. The pretense of “child protection” in this matter was obliterated when police hauled off young children in the cold, ignoring their mother’s please to take their hats and gloves. Their claims of concern for the children’s wellbeing is laughable, after they ignored this mother’s cries to take her asthmatic son’s inhaler.

In recent years, relentless police brutality and murder have already forced us back along our collective timeline to rediscover the origin of the police as organized slave catchers, authorized to kill with impunity.

In the definition of human trafficking, we already know that the prison industry is that part of the racket that handles “forced labor.” A moment’s reflection on the NBA and NFL plantations calls to mind the brazen “trade” in Black bucks, complete with the auction block examiKiarre Harris nation. We’re ready to admit to ourselves now that the close of the Civil War did not bring an end to a slave economy. We know that the slave economy would have collapsed, if other systems had not been designed and implemented to maintain control of the Black mind and body. The arrest of those who fill the jails, and the abduction of the children who are passed along to foster care, and the operations of court rooms and the assigned supervision of parental visits fuel economy.

Go ahead and admit to yourself what you’re seeing here. Can you feel sexual degradation and humiliation as you imagine male officers forcefully restraining our sister, pulling up her shirt and pulling down her pants? As you imagine them dragging screaming children away from their mother, don’t you see Kizzy on the back of that wagon, screaming for her parents?

The handcuffs and holding pens are pretty much the same, right?

But there’s another memory that should come to mind. It’s a memory of another December arrest, of another Black woman in 1955, who’s plight sparked a defining moment in our history. If we have any self-respect, this one will do the same. This is the moment – when our centuries old oppressor threw down the gauntlet and made it plain: This plantation has not changed. In order for our dominance to continue, we must have your children’s minds to indoctrinate the idea of our supremacy and their inferiority. We do that systematically in our schools. Since we fully intend for your children to be imbued with our ideas – and not yours, if you refuse to give them to us willingly, we will take them by force, as we have always done. This is the moment, when local administrators who usually prefer the shadows, have been emboldened by a Federal administration that has completely ripped off the mask of pretense and civility. But this too, is reminiscent. Reminiscent of the moment…when the people of Haiti, who were negotiating the cessation of fighting with the British, discovered their plan to re-enslave the family in Jamaica, after that successful rebellion. It was clear now, that the British would not keep their word to allow Haiti to live free, and in peace. It

“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

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“Billion Dollar Question” Article Correction

Why We Honor Malcolm X

By Linwood F. Tauheed

M

alcolm X, the man who began his life as Malcolm Little and ended it as El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz, has disappointed his critics by not slipping into obscurity. From the time of Malcolm’s death in 1965, America’s media, has tried to make Malcolm disappear from the memory of African Americans, first by neglect, and then by painting him as a wild-eyed, slicktalking, purveyor of hate.

However, the media, which has increasingly been looked upon with skepticism by many African Americans, could not convince us that there was nothing to learn from the life of a man who had transformed himself from Malcolm Little, street hustler and drug addict; into Malcolm X, articulate, brilliant and upright leader, and then transformed himself again into El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz, internationally recognized spokesman for Africans under American oppression.

Malcolm was a faithful husband and devoted father, uncompromising, tireless and fearless champion for what he believed in. For this he paid the ultimate price for his devotion to our liberation struggle. What an example for us today.

Why do we honor him? Ossie Davis, who gave the eulogy at Malcolm’s funeral, answered that by asking a simple question; “Did he [Malcolm] ever do a mean thing? Was he ever himself associated with violence or any public disturbance? …

Malcolm was our manhood, our living, Black manhood! This was his meaning to his people. And, in honoring him, we honor the best in ourselves.”

Malcolm X was assassinated during a speaking engagement in the Manhattan’s Audubon Ballroom on February 21, 1965 when three gunmen rushed Malcolm onstage. They shot him 15 times at close range. The 39-year-old was pronounced dead on arrival at New York’s Columbia Presbyterian Hospital.

Fifteen hundred people attended Malcolm’s funeral in Harlem on February 27, 1965 at the Faith Temple Church of God in Christ. After the ceremony, friends took the shovels away from the waiting gravediggers and buried Malcolm themselves.

Malcolm’s assassins, Talmadge Hayer, Norman 3X Butler and Thomas 15X Johnson were convicted of first-degree murder in March 1966.

Malcolm X is buried at the Ferncliff Cemetery in Hartsdale, New York.

no longer mattered that Napoleon had also tricked them, abducting and disappearing the mighty Toussaint L’Overture.

Into the vacuum – stepped Christophe and Dessalines. Anger and jealousies between the mulattoes and the Blacks were forgotten. Those who had served in the house embraced those who had served in the field. Nothing mattered now… but their unity. Remember?

A pro family rally in support of Kiarre Harris will be held this Thursday, Feb. 16 from 4 to 5p.m. in front of Erie County Family Court at 1 Niagara Square

• 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

Dear Editor: A correction is needed for Legislator Betty Jean Grant’s “The (Buffalo) Billion Dollar Question” article from the January 25th edition.

In her fourth paragraph, she mentions “ funding a study (mind you, a study) to see where to put a new train station in Buffalo ($25 million)…” Reading this insinuates that the study is going to cost $25 million – this is inaccurate. Governor Cuomo challenged Mayor Brown to conduct a study within a six month time period. If successful, the Governor would pay the $1 million cost for the study.

If unsuccessful then the Mayor’s on the hook for the $1 million. The $25 million is earmarked as 2018 state DOT funds for construction of the new Amtrak station, where ever it is selected to be located. These funds will most likely also be used to leverage federal funds to complete the project.

It should be mentioned that Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples Stokes is a member of the formed Amtrak Station Relocation Committee, and that the majority of the proposed locations are on Buffalo’s East Side (east of Main St.), located within the 141st Assembly District.

While most elected officials have their personal preferences on where the station should be located, we have been tasked by the Mayor and Dean Robert Shibley with keeping an open mind to all of the information and testimony being submitted, and that is what we will continue to do for the duration.

Mark J. Boyd Chief of Staff Hon. Crystal D. PeoplesStokes Member, NYS Assembly, 141st District Chair, Governmental Operations Committee

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

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CLASSIFIEDS

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

E MP L O Y M EN T

LOAN V. BATISTA

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF

PROPERTY

MANAGER

Register now for free business training classes People interested in starting their own business may enroll in free business training classes provided by the New York State Entrepreneurial Assistance Program (EAP).

The eight-week, 60-hour program begins March 28, 2017. Classes will be held Tuesday and Thursday evenings through May 18 at Medaille College. Pre-registration is required.

The program will cover business plan writing, your target market, cash flow, marketing, taxes and other aspects of running a small business.

Guest instructors with various expertise participate in the program. Anyone who has considered starting a business is eligible for the class.

All entrepreneurs, including women, minorities and veterans are invited to explore how starting a business and implementing your ideas can increase your income.

Graduation certificates are provided at the completion of the class and may be useful if participants are seeking to obtain funding.

To register, please call coordinator Ann Enger at (716) 880-3288 today. The Entrepreneurial Assistance Program is a partnership between New York State’s Empire State Development, IberoAmerican Action League and Medaille College.

DID YOU KNOW...

According to the United States Census Bureau, there are more than 2 million businesses in the country that are owned by African Americans. That statistic dispels a lot of rumors that African Americans are not successful in business. On the contrary, Black-owned businesses are a huge asset to the U.S. economy.

NEW YORK COUNTY OF ERIE Plaintiff designates ERIE as the place of trial situs of the real property SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS INDEX NO. 808005/2016 Mortgaged Premises: 401 WILLIAM STREET BUFFALO, NY 14204 Section: 111.15 Block: 1 Lot: 13 OCWEN LOAN SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff, vs MILTON BATISTA if living, and if she/he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general 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, or either of 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; CLARIBEL BATISTA; NEW Y ORK STATE AFFORDABLE HOUSING CORPORATION; BUFFALO NEIGHBORHOOD REVITALIZATION CORPORATION; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; KIM BENINTENDE; ERIE COUNTY PROBATION DEPARTMEN; CHRISTOPHER L. JACOBS, IN HIS CAPACITY AS ERIE COUNTY CLERK; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #12,”

the last twelve names being 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 To the above named 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) in the event the United States of America is made a party defendant, the time to answer for the said United States of America shall not expire until (60) days after service of the Summons; 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 OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $59,000.00 and interest, recorded on August 16, 1993, at Liber 12206 Page 824, of the Public Records of ERIE County, New York, covering premises known as 401 WILLIAM STREET BUFFALO, NY 14204.

The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. ERIE County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county.

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home.

Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RE-

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

13, 2016 RAS BORISKIN, LLC Attorney for Plaintiff SAMANTHA FLORES, ESQ. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 106 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675

LEGAL NOTICE

Citizens Bank v.Mahoney

STATE OF NEW YORK SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF ERIE Citizens Bank, N.A. f/k/a RBS Citizens, N.A., Plaintiff, Index No.: 812765/2015 REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE V. John P. Mahoney, III Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Citibank, N.A. Support Collection Unit OBO Deborah A. McAllister Support Collection Unit OBO Carmen Ruggiero DEFENDANTS PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT In pursuance of a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly made and entered in the above entitled foreclosure action dated October 31, 2016 and entered in the office of the County Clerk of Erie County on November 4, 2016, I, the undersigned Referee named in said judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on February 22, 2017 at the Foreclosure Alcove, Erie County Hall, 92 Franklin Street, Buffalo, County of Erie, State of New York, at 11:00 a.m., the premises described in said judgment as follows: SEE SCHEDULE “A” ATTACHED HERETO AND MADE A PART HEREOF.

Property known as: 114 Gaulbert Avenue, Cheektowaga, New York 14211 Tax Parcel: 101.52-4-5 TOGETHER with all the right, title and interest of the mortgagors, if any, in and to the land lying in the streets and roads in front of and adjoining said premises to the center line thereof.

TOGETHER with all fixtures and articles of personal property attached to or used in connection with the said premises.

Said premises are sold subject to any state of facts an accurate survey may show, to covenants, restrictions and easements, if any, to violations, zoning regulations and ordinances of the city, town or village in which the premises lie; the rights of the public or others in and to any part of the mortgaged premises that lies within the bounds of any street, alley or highway; any state of facts an inspection would disclose it being understood that the property is sold in an “as is” and “where is” condition; any and all tenancies, possessory interests and/or leases affecting the mortgaged premises which have not been extinguished by this foreclosure action; and the right of redemption of the United States of America, if any.

Judgment Amount: $69,551.20 Dated: January 20, 2017 /s/Timothy R. Lovallo Timothy R. Lovallo, Esq. Referee Harris Beach PLLC David P. Martin, Esq. Attorneys for Plaintiff 333 West Washington Street Suite 200 Syracuse, New York 13202 315-423-7100 SCHEDULE “A” ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE IN THE TOWN OF CHEEKTOWAGA, COUNTY OF ERIE AND STATE OF NEW YORK, BEING PART OF LOT NO. 33, TOWNSHIP 11, RANGE 7 OF THE HOLLAND LAND COMPANY’S SURVEY AND FURTHER DISTINGUISHED AS SUBDIVISION LOT NO 87, AS SHOWN ON MAP FILED IN THE ERIE COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE UNDER COVER NO. 928.

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LEGAL NOTICE

Challenger Community News •thechallengernews.com • February 15, 2017

WILMIGTON .GILL

Filed: September 11, 2015 Index No. 810933/2015 Plaintiff designates ERIE County as place of trial Venue is based upon County in which premises are being situate SUMMONS WITH NOTICE ACTION TO FORECLOSE A MORTGAGE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF ERIE --------------------------------------------X WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, DOING BUSINESS AS CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS LEGAL TITLE TRUSTEE FOR BRONZE CREEK TITLE TRUST 2013-NPL1, Plaintiff, -against- MARK S. GILL; RACHEL A. GILL; CAROL DANKERT-MAURER, COMMISSIONER OF ERIE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES; “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #10” inclusive the names of the ten last name Defendants being fictitious, real names unknown to the Plaintiff, the parties intended being persons or corporations having an interest in, or tenants or persons in possession of, portions of the mortgaged premises described in the Complaint, Defendants.

--------------------------------------------X TO THE ABOVE NAMED 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 upon the Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the date of service or within thirty (30) days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York. If you fail to so appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint.

DATED: Elmsford, New York

September 10, 2015 NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME

If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home.Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property.Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY

SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, DOING BUSINESS AS CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS LEGAL TITLE TRUSTEE FOR BRONZE CREEK TITLE TRUST 2013-NPL1 AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.

Richard F. Komosinski Knuckles, Komosinski & Elliott, LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff 565 Taxter Road Suite 590 Elmsford, NY 10523 Phone: (914) 345-3020

THIS IS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. NOTICE TO OCCUPANTS: WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, DOING BUSINESS AS CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS LEGAL TITLE TRUSTEE FOR BRONZE CREEK TITLE TRUST 2013NPL1 IS FORECLOSING AGAINST THE OWNER OF THIS PREMISES. IF YOU LIVE HERE, THIS LAWSUIT MAY RESULT IN YOUR EVICTION. YOU MAY WISH TO CONTACT A LAWYER TO DISCUSS ANY RIGHTS AND POSSIBLE DEFENSES YOU MAY HAVE.TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: The foregoing Sum-

mons is served upon you by publication pursuant to Order the Hon Jeannette Ogden a Justice of the Supreme Court Erie County, dated Nov. 14, 2016 and filed with the complaint

and other papers in the Erie County Clerk’s Office, NY

NOTICE OF OBJECT OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above-entitled ac-

tion is to foreclose a purchase money mortgage to secure $66,482.00 plus interest, recorded in the Office of the County Clerk/City Register of the County of Erie on July 11, 2008 in Liber 13411 at Page 8498 covering the premises described as follows: 185 Ridgewood Road, Buffalo, New York 14220 a/k/a Section 133.64, Block 4, Lot 16 The relief sought in the within action is final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the mortgage described above.

The Plaintiff makes no personal claim against any Defendants in this action except Mark S. Gill and Rachel A. Gill. #90838

LEGAL NOTICE BID COUNTY OF ERIE NOTICE TO BIDDERS ELMWOOD AVE PEDESTRIAN & BICYCLE IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT PROJ# TAP-119-17 PIN 5761.03 Department of Public Works, Division of Highways, seeking sealed bids for construction of federal aid transportation alternatives project. Sealed proposals received at the DPW, 95 Franklin St, Rm 1400, Buffalo, NY at 10 am, Thursday, March 2, 2017.

Bid deposit of $35,500.00 required.

Minority Workforce goal, Apprenticeship & 11% DBE required. Plans and additional bid submittal information on the Erie County website at: http:// www2.erie.gov/dpw see On Line Bid Retrieval.

LEGAL NOTICE

NFTA Procurement Invitation to Bid

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LEGAL NOTICE NATIOSTAR V. GERACE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF ERIE Plaintiff

designates ERIE as the place of trial situs of the real property SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Mortgaged Premises: 721 LA SALLE AVENUE BUFFALO, NY 14215 Section: 79.74 Block: 5 Lot: 13 INDEX NO. 811878/2015 NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC, Plaintiff, Vs. KENNETH V. GERACE, if living, and if he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general 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, or either of 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; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, "JOHN DOE #1" through "JOHN DOE #12," the last twelve names being 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. To the above named 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) in the event the United States of America is made a party defendant, the time to answer for the said United States of America shall not expire until (60) days after service of the Summons; 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 OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $55,440.00 and interest, recorded on April 16, 2004, at Liber 13155 Page 9961, of the Public Records of ERIE County, New York, covering premises known as 721 LA SALLE AVENUE BUFFALO, NY 14215. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.

ERIE County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the 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: December

6, 2016 RAS BORISKIN, LLC Attorney for Plaintiff BY: DANIEL GREENBAUM, ESQ. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 106 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675

CLASSIFIEDS

Challenger Community News • thechallengernews.com • February 15, 2017

1917-2017 Colored Musicians Club Centennial

100 Years of Musical, Political, Economic and Cultural Striving in America: The Story of Musicians Union Local 533 As Told by Raymond E. Jackson, Lloyd Plummer and Albert “Eggie” Riding

By Dawoud Sabu Adeyola

A

lbert “Eggie” Riding, in a lecture to university students who were on a field trip to the Colored Musicians Club (CMC), reflected on how he came to be a Buffalonian and his involvement with Local 533 and CMC: “I choose to call myself the ‘Senior Citizen’ of the Colored Musicians Club. This Club was formed in 1934, a year before I came to Buffalo. I came to Buffalo with a band to play at a place called McVan’s. We had a six month contract to play there and I’m still here [laughs]! At first I didn’t participate much with the Club except for after work we would come by because this is where all the musicians congregated…at the Musician’s Club.

“It was first located around the corner at Clinton Street, however they moved over here and I was not involved but I was here when the Club purchased this building…at the time there were two musicians unions, Local 533 which was called the Colored Local and 43 which was the White Local.

“Some of the members decided that they wanted to have a little club part (of the Local) and that is how this CMC was started in order to handle some of the local activities (that were not strictly union business) and (to have) a place for the musicians to come and hang out when they finished playing (their regular engagements).

There was quite a bit of musical activity at the time, in the 1930’s.

“Musicians were working all over Buffalo and they would congregate on the corner here at Broadway and Michigan. You could see almost every musician who was playing at around 3 or 3:30 in the morning (many were celebrities from out of town). So, when the Club was formed, they were able to join the Club and it was formed by all people who were interested in the arts; it didn’t have to be all musicians but it was primarily musicians who formed the Club and it was them who conducted all the activities.

“Dizzy Gillespie (was one of our distinguished visitors). I had the pleasure of working with Dizzy’s mentor Roy Eldridge in the late 1940’s. He, Art Tatum, Nat Cole and others used to come up here and sit in on the Jam Sessions just like the rest of the fellas. Anybody, in the 1940’s (who was play-

-Part 3 Conclusion-

ing in town) would come here after they finished playing their jobs. This Musicians Club was known from Los Angeles to New York City. Anyone, whether it was Dizzy, Miles Davis, Max Roach, Clifford Brown or Billie holiday would come here to relax or jam with the musicians.”

Mr. Riding was the Vice-President of Local 533 at the time of the merger with Local 43 and was also a part of the ‘transition’ or negotiating team. There was opposition to the merger from both sides. The members of 533 felt that there was not much to be gained by it and more to lose while the Local 43 members were satisfied with status quo. In the end, the merger was forced by the national office of the AFM which took effect on January 1, 1969:

“What we were so pleased with is that later on, when we had to join with the other union, according to the direction of the International AFM (that) there shouldn’t be two unions i.e. a Black union and a White union, because we were residing and working in the same spot, it didn’t make any sense. So, in the late 1960’s we merged together. I was one of the leaders of the merger.

“We had certain ideas that we liked in order for us to participate (in the merger). One of those was that we would change the name. We wouldn’t use the name of the former Black (sic colored) union (533) or the White union (43). So we changed the name to Local 92.

That was about the only thing we got out of it. However, because we had a charter for this Club, it was a separate entity from the musicians union. All the members of Local 533 were accepted as members of the Club automatically but others could join. So, when big bands would come to town such as the Jimmy Lunceford, Count Basie and Duke Ellington orchestras, this is where they came after their jobs. They all came up here. ”When the merger became possible and we set a date, which was overseen by the International AFM, the members of Local 43 were under the impression that this club went along with it (Local 533). This was because the Club had more money than either of the Locals.

We were in better financial condition and I always commend some of the older (pioneers) who started this Club (because)

AT THE CLUB: on Piano, Dizzy Gillespie, on trumpet Elvin Shepherd, Miles Davis standing in the doorway, and Wilbur Trammell on sax.

that shows how foresighted they were. They saw this way back in the 1930’s, that they (we) should have something separate from the musicians union. We (Local 533) thought we had autonomy.

“When I first joined, I thought we had autonomy and that we could do what we liked, but as I became an officer of the Musicians Club and later on an officer of Local 533, I found out that it was a good idea to have the Club separate from the union because the International union and the office in New York City were able to tell us what we could and could not do. So, when we merged, we still had this club where all musicians can come and hang out here, not as much as we did in the 1940’s because there aren’t as many musicians and especially bands that are traveling as there were at that time.”

The “sweat and tears” alluded to by Raymond Jackson in his speech at the 50th Anniversary Banquet are the seeds of what we have today and what has enabled us to function to date as a cultural landmark.

His concluding statement made then, more than 50 years ago, seems to sum up the task that lies ahead of us today: “Sufficient effort will continue to be shown by the present officers…and…there is no need to worry, for the have embarked on a program for the next fifty years, which spell(s) rich and ripe success for all those who are followers of the cultural art – MUSIC. ” This community in general, the

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS

African-American Heritage Corridor and CMC in specific, have inherited a great legacy and has been able to continue the spirit of Local 533 as an artistic and business entity. That is basically what the Centennial is all about – reminding the world of the integrity and honorific status of African-American art in general and music in particular and the unique achievements of the Colored Musicians Club and its contributions to Western New York and the City of Buffalo. We invite all to come and join in this historic Celebration!

13

14

LOTTERY

Challenger Community News •thechallengernews.com • February 15, 2017

NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS SUN 2/5

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022

064

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EVE-8-9-0

EVE-7-3-1

EVE-5-4-1

MID- 6-3-5-4 EVE- 7-5-9-4

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EVENTS CALENDAR

Challenger Community News • thechallengernews.com • February 15, 2017 ChallengerAds_MSAAHCC_ChallengerAD_AAHistMo_3.375x5B 2/2/17 8:

15

Wednesday February 15

Celebrate African American History Month 100 Years and More-Black History in Buffalo Exhibition Until Feb 28. Central Library, 1 Lafayette Square, Free

The Great Migration

The courageous tale of African Americans leaving the South Saturday, February 18, Noon Charge for lunch and admission to the CMC Museum Colored Musicians Club, 145 Broadway DISCUSSION African American Female Activism: Mary Talbert to Black Lives Matter Sun, Feb 26, 3pm.

For additional information visit MichiganStreetBuffalo.org or email Gailw@MichiganStreetBuffalo.org.

MICHIGAN STREET

Community Screening of Documentary “13th” : Merriweather Library 5:30-7:45 p.m.Free.

Hustle for Health Seniors line dance fitness class Gloria J Parks Center 3242 Main St,. 11am - 12pm 716 832 1010. FREE The Durham Central City Baby Café . Info and support for pregnant and breastfeeding moms 5:30 – 7:30 pm 200 Eagle St. 885-6348.

Board Meeting of the Westminster Community Charter School: 3p.m. M&T Bank, One M&T Plaza - 19th Floor.

Thursday February 16 Eric Holder to Speak: UB Alumni Arena, 8 p.m.

Canisius College Black History Month Program: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Zion Dominion Global Ministries, 895 North Forest Rd; free & open to the pubic; Munson Steed, author & Jacob Latimore, actor R&B and hip hop artist, guest speakers; 888-3280.

The Durham Central City Baby Café . Info and support for pregnant and breastfeeding moms 5:30 – 7:30 pm 200 Eagle St. 885-6348.

The Erie County Democratic Party Annual Chairman’s Event: Templeton Landing, 2 Templeton Terrace 6:00—8:00 p.m. Former Deputy Speaker and Mrs. Constance Eve to be honored.

Saturday February 18

Thank you to our sponsors: City of Buffalo, New York Power Authority, Erie County of New York State, The State of New York

UNIA-ACL Buffalo Division # 2 Year Anniversary Celebration: pm at Dorothy Collier Senior Center 118 E. Utica. . .Health & Wellness Diabetes Workshop: 10 -11:30 .a.m. Edison Street Community Church, 28 Edison Ave. 812-8426.

EVANS-EVANS-13945 2017 Attorney General Print Ad | The Challenger | 10.375” w x 5.5” h | 4C

WHICH CIVIL RIGHTS LEADERS WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE INCLUDED? The Michigan Street African-American Heritage Corridor, Open Buffalo, Bethel AME Church and the Albright-Knox Art Gallery invites the community to join an open conversation about a new public art project at the corner of Michigan and Ferry Streets. The event will be held on Thursday, February 16 at 5:30 p.m. at the Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Arts, 450 Masten Avenue.

Monday February 20 GYC Ministries : Gang Summit Basketball and Open Gym, Ages 14 & Up every Monday 7- 9:30 pm C.R.U.C.I.A.L. 230 Moselle Street. .

Hustle for Health Seniors: NEW Line Dance Fitness class Gloria Parks Center 3242 Main St, noon - 1pm age 60+ 832-1010 Thursday February 23 Social Meeting with Law Enforcement: Hosted by Councilmember. Wingo 6 p.m.. at Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Arts , 450 Masten Ave. {716) -851-5146 for more info.

HEAP Outreach: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Kensington-Bailey NHS , 995 Kensington Ave.; 894-0914 or 602-5877 for info; sponsored by Legislator Grant.

Taking pride in home ownership.

You do. And we do.

We understand taking pride in your first home.

It’s why we take pride in making it possible for everyone.

Whether you’re looking to purchase a new home or make improvements to the one you own, Evans Bank can help.

We offer several great lending options that make it easy and affordable for you to finance your dream. It’s home ownership, a better way—for you and the community.

To learn more, contact Eric Gadley, CRA Mortgage Loan Officer, at (716) 926-2044 or egadley@evansbank.com.

©2017 Evans Bank, N.A. Member FDIC

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Challenger Community News •thechallengernews.com • February 15, 2017

Introducing Chiquita Rodgers, Branch Manager at our Fountain Plaza location.

Stop in and say hello.

40-50 Fountain Plaza, Buffalo • (716) 844-3890

five-starbank.com

You are invited to join an open conversation about a new public art project.

Thursday, February 16, 2017 5:30 pm Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Arts, PS 192 450 Masten Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14209

Michigan Street AfricanAmerican Heritage Corridor Open Buffalo Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church