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February 15, 2024 | FREE | Community News

UB Professor Melissa White Wins Grammy!

B L A C K

Malcolm

X

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Black Doll Exhibit

C O N F E R E N C E Page 6

How We Change The Black East Side From “The Harder We Run” To Neighborhoods that Matter

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We Remember

C A R E G I V E R S

Photo Source: Center For Urban Studies

A L Z H E I M E R ’ S

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Difference Makers!

2024 Black Tie For Black History Honorees Page 7

Kelly Dumas

Dr. Anthony Wilson

Dr. LaFraya Wilson

Ka'Ron Barnes

Cavette A. Chambers

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VOICES

AN OPEN LETTER TO GOVERNOR KATHY HOCHUL:

Please Remove The People-Killing, Community-Dividing Route 33 Kensington Expw! Page 11

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City of Rochester History Councilmember Lightfoot Leads Call to Halt Black Celebrations INSIDE ROCHESTER

City Assessment Despite Mayor's Denial

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ochester City Councilmember Willie J. Lightfoot, Sr. last week spearheaded a new effort to pause the current City of Rochester Assessment process.

“We’ve promised our constituents that their reassessments would be fair, honest and correct,” Councilmember Lightfoot said. “But at this point, we feel it’s a promise we are unable to keep.”

Councilmember Lightfoot penned a letter to Mayor Malik Councilmember Lightfoot D. Evans last Friday, calling for the current round of assessments to be halted for at least two years, citing growing concern from city residents about their property valuations and a lack of transparency in the current process.

“We are respectfully requesting that any new assessment be delayed for a period of two years so we can work together to find an amicable solution,” Councilmember Lightfoot wrote.

“This pause will also allow time for the turbulent real estate market, encumbered by high costs and soaring interest rates, to settle.”

Councilmember Lightfoot writes that many of the City residents most affected by the ongoing assessment are seniors, many of whom live on fixed income. For this demographic, significant change in property assessments may directly affect quality of life and the ability to keep the heat on and food on the table.

On Monday the mayor denied the reassessment delay and responded to Councilmember Lightfoot’s letter saying a delay would put him in a position of ignoring current market values, which would actually negatively impact homeowners who would otherwise receive a tax decrease and could shift the tax burden to homeowners. Lightfoot is urging anyone living in the city who wants a pause on the city assessment to call 585- 4287538 and sign up to speak to the city council before 4:30 p.m. on Thursday February 15.

Avenue Black Box Theater Teen Fellowship Join the Avenue Black Box Theatre for their Teen Fellowship workshops going on until March 2nd. The A.C.T. Project workshop has paid opportunities for performing arts, theatre tech, visual arts, event production and social justice.

Ages 14 and up can earn stipends up to $13.50 /hr! The theatre is located at 780 Joseph Avenue. Learn more at avenuetheatre.org and apply! You can also call the theatre at 585.491.6730.

The City's Black Heritage Committee Black History Events Continues: •City Hall Concerts 12:00– 1:00 p.m., Wednesdays, Feb. 7 and 21 at the City Hall atrium, 30 Church St. Free and open to the public.

•Keynote Address 5:30– 7:30 p.m., Thursday, February 22, at the City Hall atrium, 30 Church St. Free and open to the public.

•Heritage Gospel Concert featuring Akoma and Voices of Thunder, 6–8 p.m., Wednesday, March 2 at the Mount Vernon Baptist Church, 351 Joseph Avenue.

Free and open to the public.

•Women’s Recognition, 5:30–7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 5 at the City Hall Atrium, 30 Church St. Free and open to the public.

Rochester Black Arts Council Black History Month Events

•February 16/17 - One woman stage play by Kristan Kupid Sandford •February 23rd- THE COLORED MUSEUM 3 skits will be performed with a plethora of musical performances.

•February 24th - WE PAY HOMAGE and children's day •February 28th- TBA •February 29th- Closing ceremonies with community wide forum hosted by The Rochester Black Arts Council, Inc, "How Do We Repair Our Nation?" Community activist, author and educator

Howard J. Eagle honored.

will be

Challenger Community News •February 15, 2024

Chiefs Win Super Bowl LVIII in Typical Fashion In A Thriller in Overtime 25-22 T

he Kansas City Chiefs won back-to-back Super Bowls on Sunday, cementing Patrick Mahomes as a legendary quarterback.

The Chiefs looked sloppy and out of sync for most of the game until late third and fourth quarters when Mahomes began to make plays on crossing patterns and hard-nosed runs by Isiah Pacheco. Mahomes is a money player who gets better once the game is on the line. He hates to lose, as exhibited by his tantrum on sidelines after the Bills game .

Mahomes said,” We have had some great playoff runs but this one is special because of all the adversity we went through this season…I’m going to celebrate this win and go to the parade then start preparing for next season because I want a three peat!,” he continued. “I’ve learned from other guys that after the parade is over you start preparing for the upcoming season.”

At 28 years of age Mahomes is a very driven young man . He could eventually win more Super Bowls than any other quarterback. In six seasons, Mahomes has two MVPs, three Super Bowl MVPs, one Offensive Player of the year, led the league in touchdown passes twice, and passing yards per game twice. If Patrick Mahomes does not do anything else he's done enough to be a first ballot NFL Hall of Famer.

The Chiefs defense played another stellar game by not allowing Brock Purdy to beat them.

Their defensive unit moved Brock Purdy off his spot and forced him to go to his second or third option most of the game and his running ability was limited. The Chiefs also batted down or deflected several passing attempts by Purdy and he could not find a solution to the various defensive schemes thrown at him by Chiefs Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo.

The Chiefs cornerback Trent McDuffie had two important quarterback hits along with key break ups of deep passes to Deebo Samuels and linebacker Nick Bolton (recovering from a broken wrist playing with a cast on left wrist) had five tackles and eight assists for a combined 13 for the game. Nick Bolton said in regards to repeating as Super Bowl Champions, “The first one you win, it’s amazing and the second one you come back to go back-to-back, man, it’s just you don’t even know how to put it in words. I’m proud of the guys of the work we put in, we’re the hardest working team in the league, man.”

The real MVP of this game was the Chiefs defensive unit along with Chris Jones putting pressure on 49’ers Brock Purdy and his run stuffing skills made a big difference in the outcome of this game. The 49’ers QB Brock Purdy said in regards to kicking field goal in overtime, “I was trying to get the ball to JJ (Jauan Jennings, who was blanketed by Trent McDuffie all day). That’s what was hurting me, just knowing we’re going to execute the field goal. Patrick Mahomes is really good. You just don’t want to give an opportunity to go down and win the game off a touchdown.

When I wasn’t able to connect with them it hurt.”

The 49er’s Tight End George Kittle said, “I think both teams had plenty of opportunities and our offense sputtered a little bit, and then when you play a quarterback like Patrick Mahomes with a good offense, you got to put up touchdowns, not field goals.”

The Chiefs strongest weapon field goal kicker Harrison Butker set a Super Bowl record of making a 57 yarder and overall has most field goals made, Career of nine.

Continued page 13

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Challenger Community News •February 15, 2024

AREA BRIEFS

From "The Harder We Run" to Neighborhoods That Matter

How We Change The Black East Side An important Symposium and panel discussion will take place on Monday, February 26 from 6-8 p.m. at Jacobs School of Medicine

OUTSTANDING STUDENT-ATHLETE! Pictured from left: Councilman Rasheed Wyatt, student athlete Jeana Clemons, BPS Chief of Athletics Dr. Ramona Reynolds.

Jeana Princess Clemons: Exceptional Student Athlete!

Buffalo Public Schools proudly celebrates Jeana Princess Clemons, an exceptional student-athlete from Research Laboratory for Bioinformatics & Life Sciences, as she commits to play NCAA D3 Softball at York College and pursue a degree in Aviation Management. An inspiration both on and off the field, Jeana serves as Captain of two varsity teams, Senior Class President, and a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority’s Rhoer Club. Her achievements mark a historic milestone as she becomes the first female athlete from the high school to reach such heights. Councilman Rasheed Wyatt joined in the commemorating of this momentous occasion and recognition of Jeana’s remarkable accomplishment.Congratulation Jeana!

Young Entrepreneurs of Color Awards Accepting Applications

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n 2021 the University of Buffalo’s Center for Urban Studies led by Dr. Henry Louis Taylor released, “The Harder We Run,” a damning report that exposed the fact that Black Buffalo had not progressed in 30 years.

Most recently a bold new follow up to that report by Dr. Taylor and his team – “How We Change the Black East Side” - outlines a visionary approach to how Buffalo’s Black East Side can be transformed into “a great place to live, work, play and raise a family."

An important symposium and panel discussion dealing with this document and its implementation will take place on Monday, February

Nobles of Hadji Temple

26 from 6-8 p.m. at Jacobs School of Medicine , 955 Main St. (near High) featuring the report’s author, Dr. Taylor, and moderated by Rev. George Nicholas, CEO, Buffalo Center for Health Equity. A discussion by distinguished panelists will feature Timothy Murphy, MD, Director of the Community Health Equity Research Institute; Rasheed N.C. Wyatt, University District Council Member; Michael Lamb, PhD, Director of Surgical Education, UB Department of Surgery; and Athena D. Mutua, JD, School of Law Professor, University at Buffalo.

-“A Battle Cry”-

Referring to How We Change the Black East Side Report as “a battle cry to make the city in our own image,” Dr. Taylor said during an interview on WBFO'S What’s Next, “We’re talking about transforming a neighborhood and a community.”

“Unless we build another, very different, and better neighborhood, health inequities and underdeveloped Black neighborhoods will persist “ he states in the report’s introduction. “This report proposes a strategy to produce a new, alternate neighborhood development model capable of transforming the Black Continued Page 10

The planning committee for the Empower 716 Young Entrepreneurs of Color Awards are pleased to announce the release of the 2024 Young Entrepreneur Award Application. The Second annual awards gala will be held on April 25.

The Empower716 Entrepreneurs of Color Awards honor outstanding young entrepreneurs in Western New York (WNY).

Young Entrepreneur Eligibility Requirements: •Be Age 25 or under •Be a person of color and live within the Western New York area •Has a service or product that offers value •Has taken steps to become an entrepreneur •Has made a significant impact on the community with regards to business success and contribution to community events.

Nominations must be submitted electronically no later than February 29, 2024, by 5p.m. Self-Nominations and previous winners will not be accepted. For a Young Entrepreneur Nomination Form go to www.empower716.com (See Page 16 for More Information)

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!

ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE. Pictured above, Potentate James Green, Chief Rabban Darryl Wright, Assistant Rabban David Banks & the Nobles of Hadji Temple No.61 Oasis of Buffalo Desert of N.Y during the annual New Years Day open house at the Johnnie B. Wiley StadiumLookin' good Nobles!.Photo Street Legacy/Darvin Adams

Malcolm X

We Remember Malcolm If you knew him, you would know why we must honor him: 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.

-Ossie Davis, From his eulogy of Malcolm X

On Feb. 21, 1965, at the beginning of an Organization of Afro-American Unity meeting in Manhattan’s Audubon Ballroom, Malcolm X was gunned down by assassins.

Malcolm X was born Malcolm Little in Omaha, Nebraska on May 19, 1925. His father was a radical Baptist minister and a Garveyite who was murdered by a Ku Klux Klan-like hate group, the Black Legion.

It was while in prison (1946-1952) that Malcolm discovered a new path through the aid of his brother, Reginald who had recently converted to the Muslim religion, and joined the organization of the Nation of Islam (NOI). Malcolm took to the teaching of the NOI leader Elijah Muhammad Continued Page 11

NEW HOURS! DINE IN & TAKE OUT! MONDAY & TUESDAY CLOSED! Wednesday 9AM-6PM • Thursday 9AM-8PM, LIVE JAZZ & OPEN MIC Friday 9AM – 6PM • Saturday 9AM-2PM BREAKFAST ONLY! SUNDAY 11AM-4PM TO ORDER CALL (716) 253-2100, Door Dash Delivery Available Located at 633 Northland Inside The Workforce Center.

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Agape AME Church is Hosting Black History Month Arthur H. Boyd, Pastor and Servant's 25th Pastoral Anniversary & 80th Birthday Dinner “Tribute to Excellence! rthur H. Boyd, Pastor and Servant FAITH & FAMILY

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leader's 25th Pastoral Anniversary & 80th Birthday Dinner will be held Saturday April 27. Doors open at 5:30p.m. at Creekside Banquet Center, 2669 Union Road. Tickets are $80 each and table of 10 $800. Souvenir Journal ads are also available. To RSVP and for more information please call 716-883-1481.

“Lord You Get the Glory for This!”

Agape AME Church is hosting Black History Month “Tribute to Excellence.” The event will be held Saturday, February 24, from 2-4p.m. at 224 Northland Ave. There will be a showcase of talent including the African American Cultural Center Dancers and Drummer, Vibrant Strings, Poet Jillian Hanesworth and Kelly’s KNITch Fashion Boutique. Donation $20. Lunch will be served. Questions? Call 716-713-0125.

“NOT ONLY IS GOD’S WORK WONDERFUL, GOD’S WORK CAN NEVER BE UNDONE.”-African Wisdom

Challenger Community News •February 15, 2024

Try Jesus Ministries To Host Donation and Fundraiser for Family In Need Try Jesus Ministries at 190 Fillmore Ave. will be hosting a donation and fundraiser benefit to help a family in need due to a house fire. Jessica Booker and her son Cydeapheon Jones had a house fire and lost everything including their pets. They are asking for anything and whatever God puts in your heart to give. The benefit will be held Saturday, Feb. 24 from 4-7p.m. For more information contact Pastor Christine Lucas 716-601-5122, Bishop Hazel Boyd 716444-1606, Pastor Freda Turner 716-401-4422 or Bishop Michael Brooks 607-223-3092. Go fund me: http://gofund. me/80ec3bd2$Yahalomablack27​GOD BLESS!

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Challenger Community News •February 15, 2024

AFRICAN AMERICAN READ-IN

Free Tours At Freedom Park Underground Railroad Museum

Join us in celebrating African American History Month with an African American Read-In to promote literacy and the literature of African American Authors Sunday, February 18 at 2 p.m.at the Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Avenue at E. Utica St. All are welcome.

Bring something to read that was written by an African American Author. Maximum reading time is 3 minutes. The ReadIn is being hosted by Kenneth & Sharon Holley, Zawadi Books, in cooperation with Tradition Keepers: Black Storytellers of WNY and the Frank E. Merriweather, Jr. Branch Library.

Michigan Street African American The African American Read-In is a national event sponsored the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of Heritage Corridor by English Will Feature "Stories to Tell: American Veterans Arts and Culture and Johnetta R. 2024 Black History African Cole AMVETS Post No. 24 Black History Month Series Month Talks" The African American Veterans Arts and Culture Corpora-

tion in Collaboration with the Johnetta R. Cole The Michigan Street AfAMVETS Post No. 24 continues its 2024 Black History rican American Heritage Month Series “African Americans in the Arts” Corridor is hosting free All exhibits take place in the Foyer of the Merriweather, Black History Month talks Branch Library,1324 Jefferson at E. Utica during regular on Wednesdays during the business hours. month of February from • “The Art of Tattoos” Exhibit Sunday February 11-Thurs6-7:30 p.m. at the Merriday, February 15 Discussion and Display 5-7p.m. Feb. 15 weather Library, Jefferson library auditorium.

Light Refreshments @ East Utica Street .

•The Art of Self Defense and Physical Fitness Exhibit Tuesday, Feb.20- Sunday, Feb. 25 •Wednesday, FebruDiscussion and Display12-1 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 25 ary 21 “The History of the library auditorium.

Light Refreshments available.

Colored Musicians Club.

Speaker George Scott Buffalo African American Black History Iceskating at •Wednesday February 28 “What Are You Reading Museum “Together As One Canalside Rev. Nash?” Speaker Sha•On Sundays in February, ron Holley with Charles Black History Bus Tours” $1 from each admission to Alamo, The African American ice skating will be donated For more information go Museum As One to the following local orgato @michiganstreetbuf- 2024” Black“Together History Program nizations dedicated to the falo.org. or see their ad continues its weekly bus tours advancement of Buffalo’s Page 16 on February17 and 24.There Black community: Feb. 18 is no cost to attend! The meet- Black Boys Read Too; Feb. ing and parking location for 25: African American Culeach tour is The Buffalo Mu- tural Center seum of Science.

•Also on Sundays in Febru• Saturday February 17: ary, any patron who donates From 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. a piece of winter clothing featuring a visit to the John will receive a free skate E. Brent Garden, MLK Jr. rental. Clothing donations Monument Plaza and con- will benefit Ladies Let’s cludes at the Buffalo and Erie Be Real, a women’s minCounty Central Library. The istry developed to help and Library features an exhibit of the history and stories of The strengthen women of all Buffalo African American ages to increase their self es•Music at the ice Museum chaired by Clifford teem. throughout the month will Bell.

AAARIA presents Sankofafeature a playlist exclusively •Saturday, February 24: Black History is the Origin From 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. in- dedicated to Black artists of Humanity, February 23, cludes a visit to the Nash •Hours: Monday: CLOSED; from 12:30 -3:30p.m. at the House at the Michigan Tuesday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Frank E. Merriweather, Jr. Street African American Thursdays 3 to 7 p.m.; FriLibrary, 1324 Jefferson Ave. Heritage Corridor, a stop at days 1 to 10 p.m.; Saturdays It's hosted by Shantelle Patthe African American Cul- 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunton and features Emmy nomtural Center and finally The days: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. inated founding Poet LaureFreedom Wall on Michigan •Special Winter Break Hours: ate Jillian Hanesworth and

Sankofa- Black History

African historian/ TEDx and keynote speaker Emmanuel Kulu, Jr. (pictured above).

Tickets on Eventbrite .

Street.. For reservations or info buffalo.aam@gmail.com or visit us on Facebook, Instagram or You Tube.

February 19 – 22 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; February 23 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. The Ice at Canalside open through Feb. 25.

Karima Amin To Speak at CAO Black History Event

THE SPOKEN WORD: CAO of WNY presents Black History month February 2024. The subject: The Spoken Word, honoring the past, celebrating the present & inspiring the future. Join us on Tuesday February 27th at 1423 Black Lives Matter Way (Fillmore Ave.) from 5 to 6:30p.m. For more information contact Valdeana at 716-332-3773. Guest speaker will be the Honorable Karima Amin.

In honor of Black History Month, the Friends of Freedom Park is hosting free tours and discussions at the Park’s Underground Railroad Museum every Saturday in February from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Freedom Park (formerly Broderick Park) is located at the foot of Ferry in Buffalo. It is considered “sacred ground” to African Americans because of it’s historic and spiritual connection as tone of the last stops before crossing into Canada to freedom from enslavement.

Black Doll Show

Erie County Legislature Chairwoman April N.M. Baskin's 5th Annual Black Doll Exhibit is on display at the Downtown Central Library 1 Lafayette Square, now thru April 9. Library hours: Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sunday 12 noon-5 p.m.

For details (716)858-8900 or visit www.BuffaloLib.org (See also Page 16)

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

BLACK HISTORY MONTH February 2 0 2

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Celebrate Black History Month at your Buffalo & Erie County Public Library with free, all-ages programs, including drum workshops, genealogy & family history research discussions, the Black Doll exhibit, the Together As One and Say Their Names displays, jazz performances, quilting programs, book displays and more!

Details: 716-858-8900 www.BuffaloLib.org Buffalo & Erie County Public

LIBRARY

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HEALTH MATTERS

Can Hugs Heal? Yes!

Alzheimer's Association To Host 4th Annual Black I Caregivers Conference T he Western New York Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association will present its 4th annual Black Caregivers Conference from 12:30-3:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24, at the Frank E. Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Ave. The conference will feature guest speakers and a resource fair, and will offer an opportunity for members of the Black community to learn more about Alzheimer’s and dementia, along with what can assist them as caregivers.”

Andrea Koch, director of education and training for the WNY Chapter, said, "We know that older Black Americans are twice as likely as older White Americans to develop Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. We want to ensure that mem- Pictured l/r Ashley Stevens,Beverly Berry, bers of Buffalo’s Black community have access Dr. Carleara Weiss to information about brain health and strategies for risk reduction. We also want those currently caring for a loved one with cognitive impairment to have the knowledge and support they need to provide the best care for their loved ones.

National guest speakers will address the unique challenges faced by communities of color when caring for family members with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.

Speakers include Ashley Stevens, known as The Dementia Guru; Beverly Berry, the Alzheimer's Association's national director of diversity, equity and inclusion; and Carleara Weiss, Ph.D., R.N., a nurse-scientist and professor based at the University at Buffalo.

A free caregiver resource fair will be offered featuring representatives from the Erie County Department of Senior Services, UBMD Neurology, the Center for Elder Law & Justice, and the Buffalo Urban League’s Community Mental Health Promotion and Support team.

Barbara Miller-Williams, City of Buffalo comptroller and member of the WNY chapter’s board of directors, said, “As someone who cared for a loved one with dementia, I know how difficult it can be. Registration is required and can be done online at bit.ly/BlackAlzCare24 or by call-

ing 800-272-3900. People also can participate via Zoom. The conference is supported in part by grants from the New York State Department of Health. To learn more about Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias, call 800-272-3900 or visit alz.org.

It Matters...

When you’re diagnosed with cancer, it’s important to take the time to educate yourself and spend just one day with our experts to make sure you’re making the best decision for you and your family.

Find out why it matters. Download the cancer checklist at www.RoswellPark.org/Challenger

f you’ve noticed you feel better after giving your partner a hug, you’re not alone. In fact, a small study reveals that it can actually help women reduce their stress.

“What’s happening on the inside when we receive a hug is there is a release of oxytocin. That is that feel good chemical that when it’s released, we feel bonded to those around us,” explained Susan Albers, PhD, psychologist for Cleveland Clinic.

“There’s also a decrease in cortisol, the stress hormone that pumps through our body when we feel stressed or overwhelmed.”

Along with stress relief here are more ways hugs can heal : Hugs can be comforting during hard times, but why not start making it a regular part of your day. Hugging helps lower our stress throughout the day. A hug can give our immune system a healthy boost and might lower heart rates and blood pressure.

Hugs can lead to decreased depression.

(Sourced from Cleveland Clinic & Intermountain Health Caare by @colormewell716 on IG)

Challenger Community News •February 15, 2024

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Challenger Community News •February 15, 2024

2024 Awardees Named

Difference Makers:“A Black Tie for Black History”

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romoter, community partner and organizer Marnetta Malcolm likes to call them “Difference Makers.”

Every year she and her team select unsung heroes and heroines to be honored at the annual Black Tie For Black History Extravaganza.

Hosted by the Buffalo Funk Fest Foundation, Inc., the event, now in its 16th year, will take place on Friday, February 23 from 7-11 p.m. at the Metropolitan Entertainment Complex, 1670 Main Street. Donation is $50 and available at.

Doris Records. This is the only fundraiser for the Buffalo Funk Fest Inc. The 2024 outstanding awardees include Kelly Dumas, who provided mental health counseling in the community right after 5/14 massacre; Dr. Ty Wilson and Dr. LaFraya Wilson, two Doctors, One Couple.; Ka’Ron Barnes, Athlete, Scholar, Director and a Gentleman; and Cavette Chambers Esq, City of Buffalo Corporation Counsel and pioneer.

According to founder and coordinator Marnetta, the gala started from a conversation with Greg Pratchett in 2008.

“We discussed a need to have a Black Tie event for Black History because none existed. The idea to honor Difference Makers made sense because so many people in the community do amazing, phenomenal things but are never recognized,” she said. "It’s our way of acknowledging the greatness that exists in our community and always supporting a Black owned business as our venue in celebration of Black history."

“It has been an honor and a privilege to give this event and I will do my best to always give this event - the community deserves it!" she concluded. “Congratulations to this year's Difference Makers and Black Tie for Black History awardees!"

Entertainment will be provided by DJ Big Poppa and DJ Papa Trini.

Black Tie for Black History sponsors include Attorney John Elmore, Dr. Catherine Collins, CASNY , Camellia Foods, Geneva’s Auto and RWMVP. See You there!

TAO TE CHING -24He who stands on tiptoe Doesn’t stand firm.

He who rushes ahead Doesn’t go far.

He who tires to shine Dims his own light.

He who defines himself Can’t know who he really is.

He who has power over others Can’t empower himself.

He who clings to his work Will create nothing that endures.

If you want to accord with the Tao, Just do your job, then let go.

THE HISTORY OF THE COLORED MUSICIANS CLUB 2/21/2024

To honor Black History Month, the Friends of Freedom Park invite you to join us at the Underground Railroad Museum for a free tour and discussion.

WEDNESDAY | FEBRUARY 21

@FRANK E MERRIWEATHER JR LIBRARY

| FREE TALK | The History of the Colored Musicians Club

Speaker George Scott will delve into the history and significance of Local 533 and the Colored Musicians Club.

WE THANK OUR FUNDERS FOR EMBRACING THE VISION:

CELEBRATE WITH US

MICHIGANSTREETBUFFALO.ORG

MICHIGAN STREET AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE CORRIDOR 136 BROADWAY STREET, SUITE 101 • BUFFALO, NY 14203 TO SCHEDULE A TOUR, CALL 716.322.1002 OR EMAIL INFO@MICHIGANSTREETBUFFALO.ORG

Every Saturday in February, 10am to 12pm, the Underground Railroad Museum in Freedom Park (at the foot of Ferry)

To Support FOFP

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Challenger Community News •February 15, 2024

ON STAGE

Entertainment REVIEW

THE STYLISTICS at The Bear's Den Showroom inside Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino Thursday, May 30, and Friday, May 31, at 8p.m.

Tickets go on sale this Friday, February 16 at Noon!

Comedy at Helium

Pictured Roderick Garr, Shanntina Moore, P.K. Fortson photo Sarah Potter

“Super Freak: The Rick James Story” Coming to Shea’s Buffalo Theatre!

F The FolksByAtAnnette Home Is Good Times Daniels Taylor

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he Folks at Home, by R. Eric Thomas, is a Western New York premiere comedy on the stage of The Alleyway Theater ( 1 Curtain Up Plaza) in downtown Buffalo. The Folks at Home takes place at Roger Harrison and Brandon HarrisonLittlfield’s large lovely South Baltimore row house. A married interracial gay couple they are behind on their mortgage after Roger was let go from his more than five year job as an almost licensed real estate agent. Brandon wants to sell the house and Roger does not. But Roger’s parents drop in and announce they need to move in, the same day Brandon’s mom shows up with the same announcement. Oh, and there may or may not be a ghost in the house.

Director Daniel F. Lendzian says the play is “a love letter to great sit-coms of the 70’s,” adding, Folks at Home continues the classic sitcom legacy of putting a “cast of lovable characters in difficult situations” while discussing social issues with humor, humanity and love.

As an avid Norman Lear sitcom viewer I saw and heard the love on the stage of The Folks at Home and I laughed hard, and often. A few times laughter tried to snatch my breath! And like so many episodes of Good Times, when we thought the Evans family was finally going to get out of the projects and something bad happens that holds them, yeah, I cried, too.

The production stars Ujima Company member and Artie award-winner, Shanntina Moore, as Pamela Harrison; Buffalo natives Roderick Garr, as Vernon Harrison ( who recently starred in Anne of Green Gables at Theater of Youth, and Master Harold and The Boys at Irish Classical Theater), and PK Forston, who’s appeared in productions at Paul Robeson Theater and Ujima Theater, plays Roger Harrison.

Every scene featuring Moore and Garr fills the stage with a truth whether a comedic truth or dramatic. You immediately know who these people are before they open their mouths.

When they do open their mouths, you're going to laugh a lot.

Just wait until you hear Garr try to retell to Forston and Moore a joke he saw on the internet. The family relationships they have created for these roles are familiar and authentic. Garr and

or a limited performance, March 20, 2024 "Super Freak: The Rick James Story" is coming to Shea's With a stellar cast, breathtaking choreography, and popular hits such as "Give It to Me Baby," "Mary Jane," and "Super Freak," this musical odyssey bursts to life on the gritty streets of Buffalo – the backdrop for the arrival of the King of Punk Funk.

Produced by acclaimed Writer/Producer/Director Je'Caryous Johnson and Ty James, James’ only daughter and President of the Rick James Estate, “Super Freak: The Rick James Story” is based on the books ‘Glow’, by Rick James and David Ritz and ‘Memoirs of a Superfreak,’ by Rick James,” and is written by Johnson, J Kyle Manzay and Troy Bye. From humble beginnings to the glitzy, hedonistic world of Hollywood, "Super Freak: The Rick James Story" captures the essence of a musical icon, leaving audiences with an unforgettable experience and the resounding declaration! Tickets for this limited time engagement start at $52.75 and can be purchased at jecaryous.com or ticketmaster.com.

Moore are acting chameleons with such great range. We are so lucky to have their talent in our city!

You will know this couple.

You may know this family and I’m sure you will like and care for every character in this warm, funny and thought provoking play about multi-generational modern family living. Also appearing are Josie Divencenzo as Maureen Littlefield; Ryan Adam Norton as Brandon Littlefield Harrison, and Julianna Tracey as Brittany Littlefield /Alice.

The Folks at Home opens February 14 and runs thru March 2. For tickets and more information visit Alleyway.com or call the theater at 716-852-2600.

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS

Magician & Comedian Ran'D Shine on stage February 14 at 8p.m.

A R I E S SPEARSof MADTv Feb. 15 - 18 Go too @

buffalo.heliumcomedy.com for Tickets.

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Challenger Community News •February 15, 2024

ART ON VIEW

FREE JAZZ CONCERT

Grammy Winning UB Music Professor!

T

How High The Moon. AKG presents The

first retrospective of artist Stanley Whitney's How High The Moon. His unique and powerful abstractions over the course of his fifty year career is on display until May 26 at Albright Knox Art Museum 1285 Elmwood Ave. Whitney’s square-format, loosely gridded abstract canvases have increasingly captured the imagination of viewers. As has been the case with many great artists of color in the twentieth century, wider critical attention to his practice came later still.

This is the first exhibition to contextualize Whitney’s best known later paintings alongside a robust installation of the innovative works that preceded them. Go to buffaloakg.org or call 716.882.8700.

LOOKING UP

Buffalo Arts Studio presents: Artists from the Hunt Gallery Residency Program, Looking Up February 23 – March 30, Opening Reception, Friday, February 23 from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. This is part of M&T's Fourth Fridays at Tri-Main Center 2595 Main St. Suite 500. Community artists included in the exhibit are DJ Carr, a self-taught artist from Buffalo specializing in portraiture, documentary, and street photography and Nicholas Wheeler an artist, tradesperson and designer who works primarily through woodworking and carpentry and is often oscillating between the worlds of art, decorative design, and architecture. Also part of this exhibit are Kevin Burzynski who work in photography and mixed-media painting. and Laura Valkwitch multidisciplinary artist.

The Pappy Martin Legacy Jazz Collective will present a Black History Month Concert Friday, Feb.23 at 7p.m.

Elim Christian Fellowship 70 Chalmers Avenue .featuring: Eddie Allen Quintet (from NYC) Eddie Allen - Trumpet, Marcus Lolo - Piano (Sitting in Buffalo's own Director, Love Supreme School of Music) Christopher Coles - Alto Saxophone, Tom Di Carlo - Bass, Jerome Jennings on Drums. Admission: FREE

FILM SCREENING

he 66th annual Grammy Awards will always be a memorable one for violinist and UB Professor of Music, Melissa White. White, along with her colleagues in the Harlem Quartet and Imani Winds, won a Grammy for "Passion for Bach and Coltrane," a Melissa White work arranged and composed by incoming UB Professor of Music Jeffrey Scott.

“It all feels surreal and it’s just incredibly exciting. It’s an honor that my music moved people enough to want to nominate me for a Grammy, and then vote for our project to win,” White said of the win.

The Grammy win was for Best Classical Compendium. The recording is a collection of original arrangements and newly composed music tying together the work of legendary composer Johann Sebastian Bach and the mid-20th century Jazz great John Coltrane.

Eleven years ago, White and the Harlem Quartet won their first Grammy for “Mozart Goes Dancing.” Even though this is the second Grammy win for White, it was the first time she was able to join the festivities in-person.

“This was our first time attending any part of the Grammys and it was extremely inspiring to be surrounded by so many of the top artists in their field! This is also the first Grammy statue that I will receive with my name on it—so this win is extra special!”

LOWNDES COUNTY AND THE ROAD TO BLACK POWER. A screening and discussion will be held Thursday February 15 from 7-9:30p.m. at the Burchfield Penney 1300 Elmwood Avenue. for the Documentary Emmy award winning film, LOWNDES COUNTY AND THE ROAD TO BLACK POWER (Sam Pollard & Geeta Gandbhir, 2022). The film will be followed by a discussion panel moderated by Dr. John Torrey.

The passing of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 represented not the culmination of the Civil Rights Movement, but the beginning of a new, crucial chapter. Nowhere was this next battle better epitomized than in Lowndes County, Alabama, a rural, impoverished town with a vicious history of racist terrorism. In a town that was eighty percent Black but had zero Black voters, laws were just paper without power. Through first-person accounts and searing archival footage, the documentary tells the story of the local movement and young Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) organizers who fought not just for voting rights, but for Black Power in Lowndes County.

Go to burchfieldpenney.org for more details or call 716 878-6011.

White said the event was incredibly “fun and energetic,” and she hopes her experiences and recognitions might benefit students and other artists.

“On a professional level, winning two Grammys means that new doors may open, and new opportunities might become available for me to be able to share my art with even more people around the world. It also means that I might be able to open new doors for others, and offer opportunities for younger artists to grow themselves,” White said.

Grammy winning performers coming to UB

The Grammy winning performers involved in “Passion for Bach and Coltrane,” will be coming to Buffalo to perform in Slee Hall on April 25, 2025, and its composer, Jeff Scott, will join UB’s faculty in the fall, 2024.

BOB MARLEY: ONE LOVE Bob Marley: ONE LOVE Opens in movie theaters Wednesday February 14!

The bio pic is a film is centered around the legendary reggae and world music icon Bob Marley and how he overcame adversity and the journey behind his revolutionary music. The 1hr 47min drama is directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green and stars Kingsley Ben-Adir as Bob Marley. The anticipated film is showing at a number of theaters in buffalo among them , at AMC Market Arcade, Regal Elmwood Center , Dipson Amherst Theatre Regal Walden Galleria, and The Capitol Theatre at Niagara Falls. Check your favorite theaters for times and to learn more about the film visit onelovemovie.com

10

Challenger Community News •February 15, 2024

HOW WE CHANGE THE BLACK EAST SIDE

Is OTB The Next Stop For Brown?

M

By Geoff Kelly and J. Dale Shoemaker

ayor Byron Brown, who has pursued at least two jobs outside City Hall in the past six months, has his eyes set on yet another: president and CEO of the Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp., sources tell Investigative Post.

of Rochester and Buffalo — all governments controlled by Democrats.

And those political insiders say the job’s current occupant, Henry Wojtaszek, is looking for an exit strategy, too.

Over the years, Brown’s name has been mentioned in connection to various patronage plums in Albany and Washington, D.C.

It’s little wonder that Brown would be interested in the job.

Wojtaszek has one of the best-compensated public service posts in the state.

The OTB president and CEO has a new three-year contract worth $287,000 per year, plus health insurance and retirement benefits. He has access to free Bills and Sabres tickets, as well as tickets to concerts at Highmark Stadium, KeyBank Arena, and other venues.

The workplace, Batavia Downs, is fun, too: a casino and harness-racing track coupled with a hotel serviced by bars and restaurants.

A half dozen sources have told Investigative Post that Brown is interested in succeeding Wojtaszek. One source claimed to have heard about the idea from Brown himself. Others said they had been party to those discussions or heard about the plan from those who were.

Wojtaszek, who has been employed by OTB since 2010, appears to be looking for a new job, too. In recent months he has told fellow Republicans he intends to run for mayor of North Tonawanda, where he resides, in 2025.

Brown’s spokesman did not respond to a request for comment.

Neither did Wojtaszek.

After this story was published, Brown appeared on WGRZ’s Feb. 6 newscast. Anchor Claudine Ewing asked the mayor about the OTB job. He neither confirmed nor denied his interest.

“It seems like every big job that comes up on Buffalo or Western New York, my name gets attached to it,” Brown said.

Wojtaszek, an attorney, is a former chair of the Niagara County Republican Party. He served six years as city attorney for North Tonawanda. His wife, Caroline Wojtaszek, is a state Supreme Court judge.

He joined OTB as general counsel in 2010 and became president and CEO in 2016.

Until last year, OTB’s 17-member board was dominated by directors appointed by the Republican-controlled governments of largely rural counties.

Those directors defended Wojtaszek’s management, even as the agency became mired in allegations of malfeasance and subject to critical audits and investigations by state and federal authorities.

Then, last May, state Sen. Tim Kennedy of Buffalo and Assembly Member Monica Wallace of Lancaster, both Democrats, attached a measure to the state budget legislation that forced changes to OTB’s governance. The measure introduced a weighted voting system, whereby board members from more populous municipalities would have more voting power than those representing more sparsely populated counties.

The change had the effect of shifting control of the board to appointees from Erie and Monroe counties, plus the cities

Democratic Party insiders told Investigative Post “the writing is on the wall” for the Republican.

Last summer, he pursued the presidency of SUNY Buffalo State. He was not among the three finalists interviewed for the position.

After that door closed, Brown floated himself as a candidate for the congressional seat being vacated by Brian Higgins.

But he withdrew his name from consideration last month in deference to Kennedy, the state senator.

In 2014, former Gov. Andrew Cuomo nearly chose Brown as his candidate for lieutenant governor. But Cuomo was concerned that Brown was a subject in a “wide-ranging US Attorney’s Office investigation into some of western New York’s most influential power players,” according to a recent memoir by the former governor’s top aide and advisor, Melissa DeRosa. So Cuomo dropped Brown in favor of Kathy Hochul.

Brown has been on the public payroll since the mid 1980s and in elected office since 1996. His salary this year is just over $178,000, thanks to a 12 percent pay raise for city elected officials adopted by the Common Council last summer. (That increase is the subject of a lawsuit.) He could retire at the end of this term and collect an estimated pension well over $100,000 per year, plus health insurance.

But the OTB job pays better and would increase his retirement benefits.

Western Regional OTB was created by state lawmakers in 1973 to curb the black market in bookmaking and provide revenues to local governments. It is owned by 15 counties in Western and Central New York, plus the cities of Buffalo and Rochester. It operates betting parlors, betting kiosks in restaurants and bars, and a casino and harness racing track at Batavia Downs, which also includes a hotel and restaurant.

Investigative Post has published more than 40 stories about OTB since 2018, detailing the improper award of high-end health insurance to its board members; extravagant spending on luxury boxes at concerts and Bills and Sabres games; and a federal whistleblower lawsuit filed by a former OTB executive who claimed he faced retaliation

by Wojtaszek and ultimately was fired for cooperating with investigators looking into OTB’s practices.

Among other inquiries, OTB has been under an FBI investigation since 2019 regarding the agency’s awarding of lucrative contracts to politically wired companies.

SUPPORT

Investigative Post is a nonprofit investigative reporting center based in Buffalo. You can find their work at investigativepost.org and on WGRZ, Channel 2. You can subscribe to their free weekly newsletter by emailing info@investigativepost.org

Continued from page 3

East Side into a great place to live, work, play, and raise a family for the existing population.

We call this alternative model the neighborly community, a place residents can call their home."

“In How We Change the Black East Side, we created seven targeted focus areas that correlate with the seven root causes of Black underdevelopment and adverse health outcomes. Solving the problems associated with each DR. TAYLOR focus area will trigger the transformation of the Black East Side,” the report continues.

Those areas are (1) community control of the neighborhood (2) fixing the actual existing rental housing (3) universal housing, property ownership, and community wealth building, (4) universal education and skills training (5) youth development (6) bolstering the neighborhood’s visual imag, and (7) abolishing neighborhood health inequities.

“We recognize that the Black community faces multiple problems,” Dr. Taylor said during a radio interview on WBFO What’s Next. "It’s inner-related and inner-active – so if you attack one problem you begin to trigger solutions across the board.” …"Based on our past experience we’ve seen what can happen when hope was ignited.”

-Demonstration ProjectThe first project in bringing this visionary change about is to select a demonstration neighborhood, which will focus on a single area "to show how to transform an underdeveloped neighborhood into a neighborly community.”

Selection for such a site, the reports notes, will not be easy.

“But we are going into an enormous effort to select that site,” said Taylor. He said his team is looking at several months just to select the neighborhood.

“Once we recognize the site of our demonstration project the first thing we plan to do is unleash community organizers,” he continued.

Their job, he said, will be to talk to people and get understanding and a sense of where they are coming from; their hopes and aspirations and tell them how the project hopes to change their entire community and whether or not they are ready to fight for what they believe in."

“Solidarity and unity is the number one objective in our first step,” Dr. Taylor continued.

One of the outcomes of a solid, unified community he noted, will be real power at the polls and ultimately more responsible governance.

“We plan to we build enthusiasm from the ground up – this is what we call retro-futurism where we look to the past (i.e. community control, innovative on-the-job-training, neighborhood councils, unity, cooperative economics , shared ownership etc.)

– the learned experience of the past and use it in the present . So this will be a plan that evolves from the people and goes back to the people, building one neighborhood at a time so “people see with their own eyes how a community can be transformed.”

“This is by no means a new model,” Dr. Taylor admits .

Nonetheless, it is a bold and aggressive back-to-the-future undertaking that is long overdue.

(Note: All the quotes from Dr. Taylor came from his radio interview on WBFO’s What’s Next) -Staff Reporter

11

Challenger Community News •February 15, 2024

An Open Letter To Governor Hochul:

Please Remove The People-Killing, CommunityDividing Route 33 Kensington Expressway and Restore Humboldt Parkway!

Dear Gov. Hochul, Somebody lied on the residents of Humboldt Parkway who will be negatively affected if the NYS-DOT puts the tunnel near their homes and under their front yards.

The voters We Are Women Warriors interviewed were opposed to putting in a tunnel under the Expressway by an eight to two margin. I am reaching out to you in this manner because your office has refused to meet with or talk to those of us who heard the cries and pleas of the residents on Humboldt Parkway.

Many of the longtime tenants and homeowners have illnesses and diseases that possibly can be traced to the toxic air they have breathing since the Expressway was constructed in the 1960s. I have family members in a house they bought in the mid 1960s suffering from illnesses they have contacted while living next to the Expressway. These illnesses include multiple cases of Asthma, COPD, frequent colds and other respiratory ailments, heart disease, kidney disease and Lupus among others on the health survey that has been compiled by the affected residents themselves.

Yet a full, independent health study/assessment on the Kensington project of residents health has not been undertaken.

It is a dereliction of duty and an absence of accountability to force a health destroying tunnel on a minority group of people that have been harmed so much by the construction of the 33 Expressway. That atrocity, smack dab in the middle of a proud and Black community that had just bought their first homes on a beautiful Parkway adorned with tall, majestic trees that would be cut down to accommodate white flight, is not only a environmental injustice: it was a social injustice as well.

The residents want trees and soil on the Parkway but not trees and soil on top of a tunnel with a roof or ceiling that will eventually have to be dug up for repairs in 30 or 40 years and every 30 to 40 years thereafter.

Please remove the people-killing, community- dividing Route 33 Kensington Expressway from Humboldt Parkway and Restore the Parkway by planting trees in soil that is not on top of a tunnel. Governor Hochul, your Buffalo minority constituents want you to do right by them and our impoverished but proud eastside community.

Just as we are saying now, " What were those leaders thinking when they voted to take the trees and a prize winning Parkway away from, not just the Black people who had no political elected voice, but the entire eastside of Buffalo?" To put that tunnel under an Expressway that can and should be removed, is another slap in the face to a community that deserves so much better. We deserve our health and we deserve a Humboldt Parkway with the Expressway removed and the area filled in and restored with real trees; not trees, with roots that grow sideways, planted in soil that has a depth of only three feet.

MALCOLM X

continued from page 3

erment, black self-reliance, and separatism.

Malcolm X spent twelve years (1952-64) preaching the beliefs of Elijah Muhammad and the Nation of Islam. . In 1964, Malcolm went on a pilgrimage to Mecca, the holy city of Islam in Saudi Arabia.

Following his travels Malcolm returned a changed man with a changed message of self-empowerment tempered by tolerance toward all, preaching this not just to African Americans, but to people. Malcolm severed his ties with the NOI, and founded his own religious organizations, the Muslim Mosque, Inc. and the Organization of Afro-American Unity which would better reflect his evolving views. . In 1964, Malcolm decided to go on a pilgrimage to Mecca, the holy city of Islam in Saudi Arabia. Following his travels, and discourses and discussions with people of various cultures, Malcolm returned a changed man with a changed message of self-empowerment Malcolm severed his ties with the NOI, and founded his own religious organizations, the Muslim Mosque, Inc. and the Organization of Afro-American Unity which would better reflect his evolving views.

In his speech at the Audubon in Harlem, not a week before his death, Malcolm elaborated upon how Blacks could achieve this type of radical respect.

Malcolm X was a passionate leader, a lucid minister, a devoted Muslim, and a steadfast cham-

pion of the disenfranchised.

VOICES

Humboldt Resident Pleads for Help Dear Editor I am writing to you because I am a renter in a house owned by my cousin in the Humboldt Parkway.

I have been here around 20 years. In all those years I had many health problems that I don't know how I got sick. I have asthma, sugar diabetes, and a bad lung that prevents me from getting enough air into my body.

I found a letter in my mail about the meeting that was going to be at the library. I went there because I heard Ms. Peoples was going to be there. I wanted her to hear about my illness and how that highway was causing me to be sick.

Ms. Peoples was there but she got up and left before we could talk to her. There are a lot of people in the houses sick from the same illness as me. Please tell me who we can talk to because nobody will listen to us or tell us what to do to get some help.

Mattie Jameison

Women of Gaza grive.

Humanitarian Cease Fire Now! Death Toll in Gaza Over 27,708 And Counting…

Dear Editor: Biden has a lot of influence in Israel. Israel’s basically a U.S. colony, and the U.S. has given more than $260 billion in aid to Israel - more than it’s given anyone else.

When Ronald Reagan was president he told Menachem Begin to stop fighting in Beirut, Lebanon in 1982 (another in a long list of horrific Israeli war crimes against citizens and it was done. Begin ordered the bombings stopped within 20 minutes of a phone call from the U.S. president. Why won’t Biden use his power to stop the carnage? Most recently the UN warned that an Israeli ground invasion into Rafah inside the Gaza strip could lead to slaughter as millions of Palestinians shelter there with no place to go. The international community has been warning against the dangerous consequences of any ground invasion in Rafah. Yet the government of Israel continues to ignore these calls, and Biden remains silent.

The death toll is now over 27,708 Palestinians (the majority of whom were women and minors) in the Gaza Strip have been killed. How many more innocent men women and childen have to die as the world watches?

Timothy Johnson

Latino Poetic Art Mural: We Are Looking For A Pro Bono Attorney!

Dear Editor: I was just informed by a retired city planner that the NFTA had no business taking down the Latino Poetic Art mural (Public Art project) located at the Allen Street Train Station without informing or consulting with us; and secondly, any public-related artwork taken down must be put back or restored. Based on this information, we are interested MURAL: the poetic art mural, by three local Latino poets: A. Gonzalez (RIP), Alberto O. Cappas, and Olga Karin finding a lawyer who would Juan man. The mural was located at the Allen Street train station take this case as a pro bono. We before it was removed for the UB medical school construcare considering taking this case tion, plus an article published in the Buffalo Latino Village to court, especially if we have a which reflects some history of the project. case. We believe our “Latino art piece" was the only one taken down.

Contact us via Latino Village at latinovillage1@gmail.com, att. Alberto O. Cappas. We have all the documents or history of the project to make available upon request.

-Albert O. Cappas

12 LEGAL NOTICE INDEX NO. 803707/2023 Plaintiff designates ERIE as the place of trial situs of the real property SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Mortgaged Premises: 195 BERKSHIRE AVENUE, BUFFALO, NY 14215 Section: 90.24, Block: 8, Lot: 14 SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF ERIE _____________________________ U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR ASSET BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-HE1, Plaintiff, vs.

SARAH LYNCH, AS ADMINISTRATRIX OF THE ESTATE OF REGINALD L. LYNCH A/K/A REGINALD LEROY LYNCH; ISAIAH R. LYNCH A/K/A ISAIAH LYNCH, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF REGINALD L. LYNCH A/K/A REGINALD LEROY LYNCH; ANDREA LYNCH-CASON, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF REGINALD L. LYNCH A/K/A REGINALD LEROY LYNCH; TELEAH S. WARDLAW, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF REGINALD L. LYNCH A/K/A REGINALD LEROY LYNCH, 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; TOPS MARKET; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; JOHN DOE, "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 the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you.

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 $68,400.00 and interest, recorded on March 07, 2005, in Liber 13216 at Page 2976, of the Public Records of ERIE County, New York., covering premises known as 195 BERKSHIRE 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: January 24th, 2024 ROBERTSON,ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff Nadine D. Smith, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675 FEBRUARY 15, 22, 29, MARCH 7

LEGAL NOTICE COUNTY OF ERIE REQUEST FOR QUALIFCATIONS AND PROPOSAL On-Call Special Inspections & Tests Project No. 2024-999-01 The County of Erie is seeking qualification statements and proposals from interested firms to provide Professional Engineering & Testing services for on-call Special Inspections and Tests as applicable to New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code (NYSUFPBC) for various Countywide Sites and Facilities. Services may include but are not limited to specialties outlined in the code, such as Concrete, Masonry, Structural Steel, Spray Fire Resistive Materials, etc. Qualification statements and proposals for the above project must be received by the County’s Commissioner of Public Works, Rath County Office Building, 95 Franklin Street, Room 1400, Buffalo, New York 14202 until 2:00 PM local time on Thursday, February 29, 2024. RFQ/RFP submission instructions may be found at: www.erie.gov/

LEGAL NOTICE BID NFTA PROCUREMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL/ BID 230065 – FREQUENCY SHIFT OVERLAY REPLACEMENT Go to NFTA's Website to register as a supplier and for instructions to download the Procurement Document at https://www. nfta.com/departments/procurement

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE of RFPs Gilbane│Turner will be soliciting Requests for Proposals (RFP) for the BUFFALO BILLS NEW STADIUM PROJECT. Proposal Packages include*: Group 4 33a - Interior Ornamental Metals 33b - Interior Glass & Glazing 35 - Epoxy Resinous Flooring 36 - Carpet & Resilient Flooring 40b - Site Work/Stone 40c - Site Work - Ornamental Metals/ Fencing/Railing 40g - Site Work - Site Electrical (Lighting & Power) 40i - Site Work - Landscape & Irrigation 41a - Signage Exterior 41b - Signage Interior 42 - Toilet Partitions/Accessories 43 - Specialties 46a - Parking Lot Paving - West of Abbott 57 - Window Treatments All businesses interested in submitting as a Prime/Tier-1 subcontractor must prequalify to receive a Request for Proposal (RFP). For an overview of the prequalification process, reference the Prequalification Navigation Guide at www.buffalobillsnewstadium.com.

We encourage NYS-certified minority-, women- and service-disabled veteran-owned and local businesses to participate. Please refer to proposal documents for full MWBE/SDVOB plan information. If you provide services relevant to any of the above packages and are interested in participating at a lower-tier level, apply to participate in the Meet the Primes session via the “Contracting Opportunities” section on the project website. *Subject to change February 8, 15, 22, 29, March 7

LEGAL NOTICE BID COUNTY OF ERIE NOTICE TO BIDDERS Bridge Replacements for North French Rd & County Rd Bridges FA-5763.34-23 Department of Public Works, Division of Highways seeking sealed bids for (2) Bridge Replacements in the Towns of Amherst and Clarence.

Sealed proposals will be received at Rath County Office Building, DPW, 95 Franklin St, Room 1419A, Buffalo, NY 14202 by, and opened at, 10:00 am local time, Thursday, February 29, 2024. Certified check in the amount of $150,000.00 bid deposit is required. Pre-let meeting scheduled Thursday, February 15, 2024 at 10:00 am local time at Rath County Office Building, DPW, 95 Franklin St, Room 1419A, Buffalo, NY. NYSDOL, Davis Bacon Wage Rates, NYS Vendor Responsibility CCA-2 A/B/C, Local Minority, & Disadvantaged Workforce goals, NYS Apprenticeship, and DBE goals may be 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 REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS The NFTA is soliciting technical proposals for NFIA Airfield Guidance and Sign Navigation Aid Rehabilitation, Project No. 32NA1903 Proposals are due on 3/6/2024. www.nftaengineering.com

Rooibos Tea Caution

Rooibos tea is also known as red tea or red bush tea usually grown on the western coast of South Africa Rooibos is a herbal tea and is not related to black or green tea.Although delicious some compounds isolated from rooibos leaves showed estrogenic activity. Therefore, patients with hormone-sensitive cancers

should use caution before taking rooibos.

are you registered to VOTE? LEGAL NOTICE COUNTY OF ERIE ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Highmark Stadium 2023/2024 Year 11 CIA Projects Project No. 2024-880-01 Separate sealed General Construction, Site Construction, Mechanical, Plumbing and Electrical bids for work for the above project will be received by the County’s Commissioner of Public Works in Suite 1400 of the Rath County Office Building, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York 14202 until 10:30 AM local time on March 7, 2024, at which time they will be opened and read aloud. MBE/ WBE and Apprenticeship program may apply to this project. Additional information must be found at: www. erie.gov/dpw

LEGAL NOTICE Engineering Service Request for Proposal The Buffalo and Erie County Industrial Land Development Corporation (ILDC) is requesting proposals from qualified engineering firms to provide documents (Engineer’s Report, Design Plans, and Specifications) along with construction administration and engineer services during construction for work on the Erie County Agribusiness Park. This project will include design of the phase 1 road, resulting in the new road connection to Eden Evans Center Road as well as the demolition of four one-story metal hangar buildings. The project will aid in the redevelopment of a 242-acre former airport and surrounding acreage, located at 1526 Eden Evans Center Road in the Town of Evans, into a site for agriculturally related commercial and light industrial uses. Proposal packages are available at 95 Perry St., Ste. 403, Buffalo, NY 14203 or by visiting the ECIDA website, www. ecidany.com Proposals are due by 1:00 PM on Monday, March 11, 2024. Questions: afederick@ecidany.com

NFTA’s Accessibility Advisory Committee meeting will be held on Thursday, 2/22/24 from 2:00pm to 3:00pm at 181 Ellicott Street, Buffalo, NY 14203.

If you are not able to attend inperson, please contact the AAC Chair, Holly Nidell at (716) 855-7486 or by email aac@ nfta.com

Challenger Community News •February 15, 2024

Apply Now for Mayor's Summer Youth Jobs!

Apply today for the Mayor's Summer Youth Internship and Employment Program. City youth ages 14-21 can sign up at www.buffalony.gov/msyapp. Completed applications are due by Friday, March 29. Mayor Brown’s employment and work-readiness training program has provided nearly 31,000 summer work experiences for Buffalo youth since 2006. Earn money and gain meaningful work experience.

Interact with dynamic working professionals in a positive and safe work environment. Learn the skills, attitudes, and commitment necessary to succeed in today’s workforce.

For more information go to www.buffalony.gov

LEGAL NOTICE Bid ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Sealed bids for Project No. 46110-C, comprising separate contracts for Construction Work, Provide Fall Protection, Cell Block Catwalks A, B, C, D & G, Wende Correctional Facility, 3040 Wende Road, Alden (Erie County), NY, will be received by the Office of General Services (OGS), Design & Construction Group (D&C), Division of Contract Management, 35th Fl., Corning Tower, Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12242, on behalf of the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, until 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, when they will be publicly opened and read. Each bid must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders and must be accompanied by a bid security (i.e. certified check, bank check, or bid bond in the amount of $80,500 for C).

All successful bidders will be required to furnish a Performance Bond and a Labor and Material Bond pursuant to Sections 136 and 137 of the State Finance Law, each for 100% of the amount of the Contract estimated to be between $2,000,000 and $3,000,000 for C. Designated staff are Jessica Cook, Jessica Hoffman, and Pierre Alric in the Division of Contract Management, telephone (518) 474-0203, fax (518) 473-7862.

Pursuant to Public Buildings Law § 8(6), effective January 11, 2020, for any projects where the project design commenced on or after January 1, 2020 and for any contracts over $5,000 for the work of construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, or improvement of any State building, a responsible and reliable NYS-certified Minority or Women-Owned Business Enterprise that submits a bid within ten percent of the lowest bid will be deemed the apparent low bidder provided that the bid is $1,400,000 or less, as adjusted annually for inflation beginning January 1, 2020. If more than one responsible and reliable MWBE firm meets these requirements, the MWBE firm with the lowest bid will be deemed the apparent low bidder.

XX Project commenced design before January 1, 2020. Not subject to provision. ___Project commenced design on or after January 1, 2020. Subject to provision.

The only time prospective bidders will be allowed to visit the job site to take field measurements and examine existing conditions of the project area will be at 9:30 a.m. on February 29, 2024, NYS OGS Field Office, 2990 Wende Road, Alden, NY. Phone the office of Allyson Youdsavage (585-589-4854) a minimum of 72 hours in advance of the date to provide the names of those who will attend the pre-bid site visit. Only contractors that schedule a visit at least 72 hours in advance will be allowed to participate in the pre-bid site visit.

Pursuant to New York State Executive Law Article 15-A and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, OGS is required to promote opportunities for the maximum feasible participation of New York State-certified Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprises (“MWBEs”) and the employment of minority group members and women in the performance of OGS contracts. All bidders are expected to cooperate in implementing this policy. OGS hereby establishes an overall goal of 0% for MWBE participation, 0% for MinorityOwned Business Enterprises (“MBE”) participation and 0% for Women-Owned Business Enterprises (“WBE”) participation (based on the current availability of qualified MBEs and WBEs). The total contract goal can be obtained by utilizing any combination of MBE and /or WBE participation for subcontracting and supplies acquired under this Contract. Trades with 0% goals are encouraged to make “good faith efforts” to promote and assist in the participation of MWBEs on the Contract for the provision of services and materials.

Article 3 of the Veteran’s Services Law provides for more meaningful participation in public procurement by certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses (“SDVOBs”). Bidders are expected to consider SDVOBs in the fulfillment of the requirements of the Contract. Such participation may be as subcontractors or suppliers, as protégés, or in other partnering or supporting roles. OGS hereby establishes overall goals for SDVOBs’ participation under this contract as follows: 3% for the C trade contractor, based on the current availability of qualified SDVOBs. Trades with 0% goals are encouraged to make “good faith efforts” to promote and assist in the participation of SDVOBs on the Contract for the provision of services and materials.

The Bidding and Contract Documents for this Project are available for viewing, downloading, and Electronic Bidding from OGS Design & Construction’s Electronic Bidding service, Bid Express.

Registration along with viewing, downloading, and electronic bidding can be accessed at the following link: http://www.bidexpress.com For questions about downloading of bid documents, please send an e-mail to support@bidexpress.com, or call the Bid Express toll-free number at (888) 352-2439.

For all other questions, please send an email to DCPlans@ogs.ny.gov, or call (518) 474-0203.

For additional information on this project, please use the link below and then click on the project number: https://online.ogs.ny.gov/dnc/contractorConsultant/esb/ESBPlansAvailableIndex.asp.

OGS Design & Construction Group

13

Challenger Community News •February 15, 2024

EMPLOYMENT NY Connects Independent Living Outreach Speciaist: Will work with the NY Connects Team in participating county(s) to connect aging or disabled individuals and their families, particularly the Seneca Nation of Indians, to establish support programs, critical pathways providers to help facilitate access to needed home and community based-supports and services and streamline access to public benefits and application assistance.

• Associate degree OR Bachelor’s degree in Human Services.

• Must possess a knowledge base of Native American culture and be culturally competent with an understanding of the unique values and beliefs held within local Native American communities.

• Should be familiar with the Seneca Nation and the services they offer.

• Range: $35,000 - $40,000 • For full job description, please visit https://www.wnyil.org/

On Second Thought . . .

The Patrick Mahomes Show in Super Bowl LVIII

Assistant Director: Assist in facilitating the operations of ILNC and to assure smooth and seamless delivery of program services.

• High school diploma or equivalent and eight (8) years of work experience with all disabilities OR Associate degree and six (6) years of work experience with all disabilities OR Bachelor’s degree and four (4) years of work experience with all disabilities.

• Range: $50,000 - $55,314 • For full job description, please visit https://www.wnyil.org/ Employment

Voice Buffalo Is Still Seeking Strong Candidates For Our Executive Director position. Believe you're a good fit? Email your cover letter and resume to jobs@voicebuffalo.org.

We will be accepting submissions until February 23.

F

ans of the San Francisco Forty Niners cannot be blamed, if like the Bills Mafia, they came away feeling that this was a game that got away. For the most part, the Forty Niners appeared to be the better team. Indeed, the Chiefs were lucky to be down only 10 - 3 at halftime. The Niners had thoroughly whipped KC on both sides of the football, in a performance that was a lot more dominating than the score indicated.

Niagara University’s Freshman Guard #11 Ahmad Henderson II goes in for a layup as Canisius University’s Sophmore Guard Devean Williams attempts a block him from behind. Henderson was his team’s second leading scorer with 13 points. The Purple Eagles(Niagara) beat the GoldPRIDE Resource & en Griffins(Canisius) in a hotly contested rivalry game 69-64 Employment Fair on February 6, 2024.

Thursday, February 15 | coverage & photo by A. Dorcely

12pm - 4:30pm Evergreen Commons 67 Prospect Ave, Buffalo,

Radney Superbowl Report Continued from page 2 The fewest kickoff return yards by both teams is a record between Kansas City vs San Francisco in this year’s Super Bowl.

I see a very hungry Patrick Mahomes going into next season which doesn’t bode well for the Buffalo Bills. The Bills had a better roster on paper but the real deal is Patrick Mahomes . Mahomes comes through under pressure and Josh Allen (and especially Head Coach Sean McDermott) does not . So let’s see if the Chiefs will have another dominating season 2024.

One added footnote is that Patrick Mahomes and Brock Purdy were Academic All Americans and there was a total of eight who played in the game. Patrick Mahomes is tied with Peyton Manning with four Super Bowl appearances by Academic All Americans QB’s and Mahomes two MVP and Copper Kupp one.

There has been an Academic All-American MVP three of the past four years.

ARE YOU REGISTEREDTO VOTE?

Follow me on FACEBOOK: George Radney, Real Deal Sports Show, YouTube: Real Deal Sports Show, please subscribe to the show It cost you nothing but means everything to us. TWITTER: @georgeradman, RADIO: Real Deal Sports Show every Saturday morning 8am – 9am on WLGZ HD2 The Beat 105.5 FM. FOXSPORTS 1280 AM Sundays 8am – 9am.

However, after a scintillating 25 - 22 comeback victory, Patrick Mahomes can now add another word to his magnificent gridiron resume. In addition to words like winner, poised, brilliant, fearless, indomitable there is now another word that can be added to the list. That word is dynasty. The Chiefs are now and for all-time, a certified NFL dynasty and will be forever celebrated by football scribes everywhere as the dynastic reign of the Reid/ Kelce/Mahomes epoch.

The Chiefs now stand as the first repeat Super Bowl Champion since Tom Brady and the New England Patriots did it 20 years ago. Mahomes also joins the likes of Brady, Terry Bradshaw and Joe Montana as multiple, three or more time, Super Bowl winners. And that leaves out the likes of Troy Aikman, John Elway and Peyton Manning, all of whom won only a measly two Super Bowl rings.

Although this is Mahomes’ third Super Bowl ring in four years, it may be his sweetest. The early Chiefs dynasty completely switched gears from being an explosive, big play team featuring the likes of Tyreek Hill, to more of a defensive oriented team, with a punishing RB, Isaiah Pacheco, and, of course, the old reliables, Mahomes and Travis Kelce.

But even with his team adopting a brand new style of ball, with a roster that was almost completely reshaped, Mahomes has ascended, if he hadn’t already, to the pantheon of quarterback immortals. In a comeback win over an arguably better and more physical team, the omnipresent ‘Mahomes Magic’ pulled the Chiefs to a victory that was as improbable, as it was thrilling.

In truth, the middle part of the ballgame was a bit of a bore.

The Chiefs weren’t doing much, and the Niners were shooting themselves in the foot. Although his performance had been fairly ordinary, at least by his standards, Mahomes and the Chiefs had still managed to hang around until crunch time.

They were aided immensely by a critical missed PAT by San Fran kicker, Jake Moody, which would have put the Niners up by four points, instead of only three. And it was that critical miss which allowed the Chiefs to tie the game in regulation and force overtime, rather than have to go for a do-or-die TD. After the game got to overtime, it became a question of which team’s tired defense could hold out the longest. In this case, it was the KC defense that held SF to only a field goal on the Niners first overtime possession, when it looked as though they were poised to score a touchdown.

After that, it was Mahomes’ turn to see what he could do with the rock. And just like Montana, Brady and some of the other immortals, you could just feel the ‘Mahomes Magic’ light up the stadium, as he turned in one critical play after another. Whether he was passing the ball to Kelce, his trusty sidekick, or taking off on his own with an improvised scramble, or a designed run, Mahomes was simply magnificent. The payoff came with seconds remaining in the overtime whereupon he threw a perfect 3 yard TD pass to a wide open Mecole Hardman to seal the deal.

But was there ever a doubt in anyone’s mind that this moment was all but preordained; and that Sir Patrick was simply destined to stand upon football’s greatest stage to be ordained as one of the best quarterbacks to ever play the game.

Go ‘head on ‘White Chocolate’ wit ya bad self.

14

Challenger Community News •February 15, 2024

NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS SUN 2/4

MON 2/5

TUES 2/6

WED 2/7

THURS 2/8

FRI 2/9

SAT 2/10

3-WAY

MID-2-5-1

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TAKE 5

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*Saturdays Public Market 6 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday *Thursdays International Market 7 a.m. - 1 p.m. and Sundays

GOOD NEWS!

ATTORNEYS PRATCHER & ASSOCIATES Franklin Muhammad (Pratcher) Attorney 1133 Kensington Avenue (716) 838-4612

AUTO BEN’S Downtown Tire

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

BAKERY Taste of Supreme 100% Gluten Free Vegan Goodies Contact the Supreme Bakers

(585) 285 - 5496

www.tasteofsupreme.com Rochester Public Market 280 N. Union St. BLDG. B #44

ELECTRICAL EMPIRE ELECTRIC (716) 634-0330

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

Advertise Your Business in our directory email advertising@ thechallengernews.com or call (716) 881-1051

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February Lotto Luck 14-18-26-31-35-46 19-10-20-33-42-43

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15

Challenger Community News •February 15, 2024

EMPLOYMENT

The New Masters Upcoming Healing Workshops Registration is still open for the following free healing workshops.

Registration is required visit cultruelife.org for workshop link or call 716 201-0428 Let's heal up community!

Feb. 16 Pen Your Pain for Progress with Y.N.X.716 6:00p.m. – 8:00p.m.

Kelvin Jones

U.S. Navy 1984 - 1988 Boot camp: San Diego M.O.S. Dental Technician Duty Stations Long Beach Naval Station, Ca. China Lake, California

Feb. 17 Heal Off Art With Alexa and Edreys Wajed 11:30a.m. – 1:00p.m.

Healing Through Zines with Laura Chenault 2:00p.m. – 4:00p.m.

FEBRUARY Monday, February 26, HOW WE CAN CHANGE THE BLACK EAST SIDE: A SYMPOSIUM,” From 6-8p.m., Free. Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, M&T Auditorium, 955 Main Street featuring Henry Louis Taylor Jr., PhD, hosted by the UB Community Health Equity Research Institute, Buffalo Center for Health Equity and the UB Center for Urban Studies.

AUGUST

•36th Annual Taking It to the Streets August 17

&18, MLK Park. 11 a.m.-until Contact (716)891-4760 or (716)507-193.1

Making Black History In Buffalo Compiled By Jerry Brown

Feb. 18 Art As An Expression With Muhammad Zaman 11:00a.m. -12:00a.m.

Buffalo School of Beauty Culture

This picture, taken in the late fifties or early sixties, is the first all Black graduating class of beauty culture in cosmetology from the Buffalo School of Beauty Culture in Buffalo NY. The owner of the school was Dr. Murphy (dentist).

His office was above the school. The school was located at East Ferry and Welker St. which later became the Revelot Lounge. The graduation was held at Bethel AME Church at Michigan and E. Ferry St. Pictured on each side of the class are the two teachers, Ms. McComb and Micky. If you find yourself in this all Black class “God Bless You!”

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16

Challenger Community News •February 15, 2024

IMAGES OF US

Black Doll Exhibit On View: Last Thursday April Baskin and her mom doll collector and curator of the Black Doll Exhibit Lisa Jacobs-Watson(pictured bottom right center) in collaboration with Buffalo & Erie County Public Library held their 5th Annual Black Doll Exhibit in the Downtown Branch. Jacobs who has over 200 dolls in her collection put together a colorful display of dolls for this year’s theme that focuses on Royalty with roughly 20 amazing Black dolls on display on the first floor of the Library just outside of the children’s area. This year Buffalo's own young beauty mogul Zandra was guest speaker. The exhibit will be up through March so be sure to stop by the Downtown library to check it out! -Challenger photos