Challenger Community News December 18 2019

M E R RY C H R I S T M A S ! H A P P Y K WA N Z A A ! & A B L E S S E D A N D P R O S P E R O U S N E W Y E A R !

December 18, 2019 | FREE |

National Headliners Highlight

Kwanzaa 2019!

Kwanzaa Creator Maulana Karenga, Professor Kaba Hiawatha Kamene Will Speak. Exciting Local Entertainment, Children’s Kwanzaa, Marketplace & More! COMPLETE SCHEDULE Page 13

LOCAL

Lamont Thomas: Foster Dad is Unsung Hero!

Page 3

VOICES

The Electoral College’s Racist Origins Page 15

Charter School of Inquiry (CSI)

Students Celebrate Kwanzaa! Page 12

INSIDE ROCHESTER It’s Kwanzaa Time in Rochester!

Page 2

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

2

INSIDE ROCHESTER

Rochester Kwanzaa Coalition Presents

KWANZAA 20/20 : VISION FOR US

K

wanzaa means: first "fruits of the harvest,” it is a time to celebrate African -American people, our ancestors and our culture. We seek to honor our past, evaluate our present and commit ourselves to a more productive future. Millions of people of African heritage around the world, of all religions, faiths and backgrounds celebrate Kwanzaa.

Locations for this year's celebration are as follows: •UMOJA (Unity) Thu. December 26 Nathan Rochester School #3, 85 Adams St. 5-8 p.m.

•KUJICHAGULIA (Self Determination) Fri. December 27, RCTV 21 Gorham St. 11-3 p.m.

Avenue Blackbox Theater 780 Joseph Ave. 5-9 p.m.

•UJIMA (Collective Work & Responsibility) Sat. December 28, Phillis Wheatley Library, 33 Mc Cree Way 10:30 – 1:30 p.m. Evening Affair WOC Art Collaborative HQ 215 Tremont Ave. 7-11 p.m.

•UJAMAA (Cooperative Economics) Sun. December 29, WOC Art Collaborative HQ, 215 Tremont Ave. 1-4 p.m., Collecting Black Art MAG 500 University Ave. 5-8 p.m.

•NIA (Purpose) Mon. December 30 Gantt Rec Center, 700 North St. 3-6 p.m.

•KUUMBA (Creativity) Tue. December 31, Dr. Louis A. Cerulli #34, 530 Lexington Ave. 5-9 p.m.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 18, 2019

FIRST COMMUNITY INTERFAITH INSTITUTE INC.'s FINAL WEEK OF KWANZAA First Fruits at First Community Interfaith Institute Inc. will end with the beginning of Kwanzaa according to Dr. Maulana Karenga. Starting on Thursday, December 26, 2019 until December 31 at 6 p.m. every night, the Institute's students, members and supporters will reflect on the first six principles of the Nguzo Saba (unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose and creativity). First Community Interfaith Institute Inc.is located at 219 Hamilton Street, Rochester NY. The highlight of the seven day Kwanzaa observance will be the Kwanzaa Feast, to be held on January 1, 2020, 6 p.m., at the Tay House Lodge in Cobbs Hill Park, 85 Hillside Avenue, Rochester NY. The principle for the Kwanzaa Feast (karamu) is faith. All seven activities are free and open to

Anansi Tales

FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Dec 31 2019 - Jan 5 2020

Brer Rabbit edition

mpactoday.org

WEALTH BUILDING SYSTEM www.therealmoney.online

716 603-1988

the public.

•IMANI (Faith) January 1, 2020 Happy New Year! Celebrate at home with loved ones!

– Celebrate –

KWANZAA at roc holiday village

Dec 21, 1-4 p.m. Free!

rocholidayvillage.com

3

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 18,2019

AREA BRIEFS

17th Annual Tree of Life Celebration The Community Health Center of Buffalo Inc., No More Tears, We are Women Warriors and Elite Barber Shop will present the 17th annual Tree of Life Celebration on Monday December 23 from 6-8 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 p.m.) at the Community Health Center of Buffalo, 34 Benwood Avenue. Join us as we come together to celebrate the lives of lost loved ones.

For more information call Karla Thomas at 986-9199 ext. 6004.

Bring your own ornament or receive a red bow at the door. Refreshments served.

A New Adult Essay Contest: What Would Dr. King Say to President Trump?

Columnist Eva M. Doyle would like to encourage adults to enter a new essay contest with the following topic: "Imagine a meeting between Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Donald Trump at the White House. What would Dr. King say to Donald Trump? What issues would he address?" This essay contest is in two parts. Flyers will be available at the Merriweather Library with all of the contest rules. Prizes are first place $100, $75 second place, and $50 third place. The contest deadline is January 8. Completed essays can be taken to the Merriweather Library or emailed to ewriter52@aol. com.

Emmanuel Kulu Jr.

Historian/Author Emmanuel Kulu Jr. Hosts “Ancient African Mysteries: Restore The Truth 4 The Youth” The Culturally and Linguistically Relevant Teaching Team recently arranged for Riverside Academy #208 students to hear Emmanuel Kulu Jr., the author of "I Black Pharaoh." Mr. Kulu hosted a seminar on the Ancient African contribution to History “Ancient African Mysteries: Restore The Truth 4 The Youth.” He was joined by local Pastor James Giles.

Are you registered to VOTE?

Yoruba Bronze Art

SUPER DAD! Lamont Thomas (holding child 2nd from left second row) with his five new children, family and supporters following the adoption proceedings.

Lamont Thomas: Foster Dad Is Unsung Hero

H

oliday cheer came early for Buffalo’s Thomas family - MadeGood®, the leading allergy-friendly and nutrient-rich granola snack company gifted a year’s worth of groceries to Lamont Thomas, a single foster father who recently adopted five siblings Zendaya, 5, Jamel, 4, Nakia, 3, Major, 2 and Michaela,1. Thomas’ story was featured on the nationally syndicated ABC Tamron Hall Show on December 13, 2019.

The quintet of siblings are the most recent children that Thomas has taken in. When Thomas heard of the siblings’ plight - and that they had been separated for more than a year-and-a-half, he knew he could provide a place for them to reunite.

To honor Thomas’ kindness and commitment to service, MadeGood snacks donated a year’s worth of groceries - estimated at $15,000 - to help the family.

-Unsung HeroLamont Thomas has fostered 30 kids since the year 2000. The Buffalo, New York-native has two biological children and had previously adopted five others.

While he had stopped fostering in recent years, he 'came out of retirement' to make sure five siblings could stay together. Lamont legally adopted the children, all aged under five. The children had been placed separately in homes across four cities until Lamont stepped in. They were separated for over a year-and-a-half. Years previously, he had fostered their father!

Lamont said he "wants to make a difference by being the difference."

On October 17, the bighearted dad officially adopted siblings Zendaya, Jamel, Nakia, Major, and Michaela inside Judge Lisa Rodwin's courtroom in Erie County.

"Every day I think about it, my eyes swell up. All that we endured to make this happen, it was something."

Lamont initially fostered the brothers and sisters for two years before adopting them all together.

"They bring new energy to me. They're lovable kids, very affectionate,"Lamont said.

"They deserve to be raised as siblings, and that was my fight."

-How It All BeganIn the beginning, Lamont recalled how he was helping out some friends who had lost their child to the system, he said.

"I went on and got certified and became a foster parent. I haven't stopped since!"

In 2007, Lamont, who has a biological daughter named LaMonica and a son, Anthony, began to adopt.

He adopted twins Germayne and Tremayne, and unrelated children Jamie and German soon after.

He also officially adopted the first child he ever fostered, Michael, now 27.

“He was my third foster home and it ended up being my forever home,” Michael Thomas said.

“He [knew] my biological parents.

Lamont never turned a child away,” Michael added. “They either aged out or went back home to their own families.”

After the kids grew up, flew the nest and even started their own families, Lamont thought he was at the end of his own child raising days.

Continued Page 8

•The Nigerian city of Ile-Ife was paved in 1000 AD on the orders of a female ruler with decorations that originated in Ancient America. Naturally, no-one wants to explain how this took place approximately 500 years before the time of Christopher Columbus!

•Glass windows existed at that time. The residence of the Ghanaian Emperor in 1116 AD was: “A well-built castle, thoroughly fortified, decorated inside with sculptures and pictures, and having glass windows.”

•The Grand Mosque in the Malian city of Djenné, described as “the largest adobe [clay] building in the world”was first raised in 1204 AD. •Yoruba metal art of the mediaeval period was of world class. One scholar wrote that Yoruba art “would stand comparison with anything which Ancient Egypt, Classical Greece and Rome, or Renaissance Europe had to offer.”

•Malian sailors got to America in 1311 AD, 181 years before Columbus. An Egyptian scholar, Ibn Fadl Al-Umari, published on this sometime around 1342.

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

4

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 18, 2019

Johnson Blocks Sheriff Request on SWAT

Happy

2

INSIDE ROCHESTER

Holidays

FROM MAYOR BYRON W. BROWN I WANT TO TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO WISH YOU AND YOUR FAMILIES THE VERY BEST THIS HOLIDAY SEASON AND THE VERY BEST IN THE NEW YEAR. This past year, we made major strides and accomplished many great things to further grow Buffalo into a compassionate, inclusive and progressive City of Opportunity where no one is left out and no one is left behind.

As we look ahead to 2020, let us be thankful for our blessings and continue to build a safe, welcoming, affordable and vibrant community – together.

Earlier this month the Erie County Legislature amended and approved the County’s 2020 Budget. As a part of the budget process, Erie County Legislator Howard Johnson, LEAHChair FORMATS _2020 of the2019 Legislature’s Public Safety Committee, played a key role in opposing the County S h e r i f f ’s request to create a full " Wishing You Peace, Joy & Blessings time SWAT This Holiday Season ! ” team.

As Chair of the PubFrom The Law Office of lic Safety DARIA L. PRATCHER, PC Committee, he has “EVERYTHING REAL ESTATE” been holding hear- Legislator Johnson ings and discussions with the Office 523 Main Street of Erie County Sheriff Timo( 716) 541-8574 thy Howard all year, probing the deaths of prisoners in the Sheriff’s custody and providing critical oversight of the troubled Sheriff Office.

As part of the 2020 Budget, he immediately flagged discrepancies and gaps in the request for seven " Wishing You Peace, Joy & Blessings Sheriff’s (7) new full time positions for a new full time SWAT This Holiday Season ! ” team. The Sheriff’s plan is to create a 19 member full time From The Law Office of SWAT team by 2022, replacing the existing SWAT team DARIA L. PRATCHER, PC model that has been in place the team was created in “EVERYTHING REAL ESTATE” since 1973.

“I was first struck that the Sheriff never approached the 523 Main Street Legislature and provided any written proposal, plan or re( 716) 541-8574 quest for a new SWAT team model,” said Johnson. “The first time we knew about his plan was when we saw his seven new positions in the proposed 2020 Budget.”

Johnson also noted that " Wishing You Peace, Joy & Blessings only after he sought written documentation explaining This Holiday Season ! ” and justifying the new positions, did the Sheriff Office provide some data to the From The Law Office of Legislature in late NovemDARIA L. PRATCHER, PC ber and early December. And that data claimed the Sher“EVERYTHING REAL ESTATE” iff Office needed a full time SWAT team to reduce overtime costs, but the claim was not supported by any hard, recent data. He also noted that the Legislature offered the Sheriff the opportunity to use the funding from approximately 60 vacant jobs in the Sheriff’s Office to help a full time SWAT team, " Wishing You Peace, Joy & Blessings fund instead of asking for new money from taxpayers, but This Holiday Season ! ” the Sheriff’s Office declined.

From The Law Office of DARIA L. PRATCHER, PC

5

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 18,2019

BLACK GIRL MAGIC CONTINUES! Miss America, Miss USA, Miss Teen USA, Miss Universe, Now Miss World! For the First Time in History, 5 Black Women are 2019’s Major Pageant Queens!

T

Toronto first meeting.

his year has been a groundbreaking one for Black women in the world of beauty pageants.

The pageant world’s definition of beauty has been visibly expanding, as evidenced by the crowning of four Black women in internationally recognized titles in 2019: Miss America, Miss USA, Miss Teen USA, Miss Universe, South Africa’s Zozibini Tunzi. (it’s also worth noting that two of these winners are darker-skinned, and three were crowned wearing naturally-textured hair!) and most recently Miss Jamaica, Toni-Ann Singh, was crowned Miss World beating out 111 contestants!

Annual MLK Celebration Awardees

T

Rochester first meeting.

The Garveyite Perspective

L

ast weekend's "Road to Redemption" weekend was a success for our local UNIA-ACL. On a literal road to redemption, delegates from Buffalo traveled to Toronto and Rochester, creating two new chapters of this grand association! Division President Lion Blyden, Lady President Sophia Blyden and UAL Sgt. Jhaka Costner welcomed many new members as citizens of our PanAfrican Nation. A special thank you to Ujima House, Sis Terry Chaka and The Baobab Cultural Center in Rochester for being gracious hosts and a part of these historical meetings. Always operating in the tradition of emulating and honoring our great ancestors, Division #433 takes its cues from the historical Buffalo Division #79. In 1921, news reports show that President A.L. Lewis, John Terry and R.F.T. Willis "had the honor of organizing a branch of the great movement in Niagara Falls." Later that year they would go on to organize chapters in Rochester, Lackawanna, Tonawanda, Lancaster and Erie, Pennsylvania.

The time has come, when it is no longer possible to ignore the need for unity among our people. The time has come for us to get excited about our people's future! Throughout the years we have heard the complaints about what is happening, the time has come for us to recognize the solution. The time has come for us to govern ourselves like "other men have done, other races have done, other nations have done!" Here we are at 99 Years and counting of our nation, on a road to redemption for our people. Up You Mighty Race, Accomplish What You Will!

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

he Concerned Citizens Following The Dream Committee will present the Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration program on Sunday January 19 at 7 p.m. at Kleinhans Music Hall.

Kleinhans will come alive as we celebrate Dr. King’s life and legacy with music, speech, song and dance. The theme is “ A Journey Traveled By Many, A Dream Living In All.” The vision is to continue to help build and sustain an opportunity to educate our youths about Dr. King and his works, while helping them to believe that they too, can do greater things than what he did.

Performers will include the Larry Salter Orchestra, Bessie Patterson and the City Wide Choir, The African Cultural Center Dancers, Psalmist Kimera Lattimore, Elim Christian Fellowship Choir, Miss Barbara’s School of Dance, Destiny Church Choir and others.

Twelve persons in the Buffalo/Niagara area will be honored with a Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Award. Awardees are: Madeline Scott, John Baker, Judge E. Jeanette Ogden, Bishop T. Anthony Bronner, Nadia S. Pizarro, Sababu Norris, Linda Pellegrino, Rabbi Jonathan Freirich, Officer Kimberly Beaty, Patricia Bozeman, Valeria Cray and Samuel Radford. All youths in attendance, up to 25 years of age will also be honored on stage.

This event is free to the public sponsored in part by: M&T Bank, Wegman’s Food, Councilman Ulysees Wingo,

Councilman Darius Pridgen, Councilman Rasheed Wyatt, Senator Tim Kennedy, Mayor Byron Brown, Lombardo Funeral Home, ConnectLife, Catholic Health, Community Health Center, ECMC Medical Center, Buffalo Teacher’s Federation Inc. and the African Cultural Center. Bessie Patterson is the Coordinator.

6

FAITH & FAMILY

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 18, 2019

Spiritually Speaking… God’s Got You; Just Put One Foot In Front of the Other

By James Washington

I

have at times talked a little about “Faith Walk” and it dawned on me that I have also questioned just what that meant. Maybe you can explain it better than me and know that I’m not trying to be funny. I’m being real and just want to gain and give more perspective on what many have told me, I went through. Some claimed to see a transformation in me as I have come to Christ. Others have said, “As you go through this walk.”

Obviously, I’ve used the term myself when trying to explain my different view of the world as seen through a new pair of spiritualized eyes. The whole experience has been and continues to be extremely dynamic. I’m just curious about the ‘walk’ reference. I suppose when you think about it, many in the bible had truth revealed to them on a walk or, on a journey. God has seen fit to communicate to many a saint while they were going from one place to another, or, even through the spiritual travel of a dream. It’s a simple enough analogy.

What is more meaningful than a walk or a trip with someone whom you respect, admire, love or can learn something from?

One of my most memorable things to do was to go for a walk

with my children when they were toddlers. There was something about them discovering and exploring the world around them with absolutely no fear, because they knew I was there.

Today, I can go anywhere with my wife. It really is the journey and not the destination for me. Have you ever experienced this?

Have you ever gone somewhere walking and talking with someone you were totally in sync with? That might be why people refer to discovering God as “walking in faith.” Some people refer to it as being led.

Factually stated, the effort to get closer to God requires movement. I think the walking analogy is merely a human endeavor trying to speak to going in a spiritual direction. The best example is of course Enoch. “Enoch walked with God; then he was no more, because God took him away.” Genesis 5:24. What a blessed way to go.

The bible talks of walking humbly, walking in the light, walking with the wise, walking in counsel, walking together and walking on water. The point seems to be that the Christian life is a journey; one in which we want to share with God, one in which we talk and if we’re truly blessed, He will listen.

The search for salvation is a spiritual journey; one which can

best be described as taking the first step towards truth.

Once taken, your life changes forever. You change. I know I did. So I guess this faith walk thing is merely a public or in some cases a private acknowledgement that one is letting God order your steps in this, His world. If you do this, God will lead you right to Him. “When Jesus spoke again to the people, He said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’” John 8:12. So when you get up in the morning, think about this and let God order your steps.

Make a deliberate effort to listen and hear where God is telling you to go, or not to go. They say faith comes by hearing.

What better way to hear than by taking a stroll with the Lord on tomorrow. Make a concerted attempt and see where God leads you. He has been known to show up in the oddest places and you will see Him in the strangest faces. Give it a try and know this. If you are seeking Him, He is very easy to find. All it takes is that first baby step. May God bless and keep you always.

James Washington is Publisher of Dallas Weekly News contact James at jaws@dallasweekly.com

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 18,2019

FAITH & FAMILY

7

CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR AT NEW COVENANT The New Covenant United Church of Christ located at 459 Clinton Street presents CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR Sunday December 22 beginning at p.m. This holiday production will include the Sr. Choir, Male Chorus, Praise Team, Youth Choir, Mass Choir, Liturgical Dance and a Theatrical Performance by the Youth Ministry.

If you are interested in a meal, come early and enjoy a spaghetti dinner beginning at 1:15. The kitchen will close at 2:30 p.m.

POWER COUPLE: Bishop Michael and First Lady Marilyn Chapman of St. John Baptist Church, are featured on the cover of the latest issue of Minority Enterprise Magazine entitled "Buffalo's Black Billion."

There is also a feature article regarding Herb Bellamy Enterprise and Black Achievers as well.

Free Breakfast for our community youth every Sunday. Adults a small donation. All Are Welcome!

Youth Church/ Sunday School – 10am Sunday Service – 11:45 am

WORSHIP THIS WEEK WORSHIP THIS WEEK

Tickets for the CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR are $10 for 18yrs. and over; $5 for youth 13-17years; free for those 12 and under. The community may purchase tickets by contacting Ebony Bullock at ebony.bullock1@gmail.com, or by calling the church office 716-856-3392, or you may purchase at the door. The Spaghetti Dinner is $7 (5yrs. and over) at the door.

A woman, a man, and a youth will be blessed with a surprise give-a-way during our time together.

You do not want to miss this celebratory time of song, dance and theatrical performance during this 2019 Advent and Christmas season.

The directors of the program are Darcel Blue, TJ McKissick, Constance Dean Qualls Megan Rakeepile, and Ebony Bullock.

This team of talent have created a production that will be relevant and pleasing to all ages. The Rev. Jacquelyn Ross Brown is Sr. Pastor.

St. Philip's Ministry Shares a "Healthy Pot" Team spirit was in high gear in purchasing, preparing, and distributing more than two dozen family slow cookers; a project that will provide more than 200 Meals! This lovingly prepared gift to families will also include: recipes, and all the “good stuff” (including: potatoes, carrots, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and peppers) needed for a hearty cold weather soup!! A meal that lasts for several days!!

Nutritionist Marla Ryan will also conduct a special “How-To” Session on preparing Three Bean Chili!

Enjoying sharing in the experience were team members: Ellen Lane, Sherri Hughes, Irene Greene, Deborah Seals, Michelle Craig, Sue Sims, Linda Brown, Denise Adams, Lisa Alexander, Peggy Johnson, Ed Herndon, Paul Lambert, Max Daye, and “Connie” Eve. This project represents another shared St. Philip’s Ministry where the Reverend Stephen Lane is the Priest-in-Charge. All are invited to join us for our beautiful Christmas Eve of caroling leading right into our powerful service, that you are sure to love!

JOIN US FOR A GOSPEL JAZZ BRUNCH! Mark the date for Manna Culinary Group's first annual New Years Day Gospel Jazz Brunch, Wednesday, January 1 from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Buffalo's newest minority-owned eatery at 683 Northland (see their ad below). Pictured above: Chef Reginald, Chef Tina and Chef Dale invite you to come out for delicious food and great music on the first day of the new year! Tickets available inside Manna@The Northland or call (716)253-2100.

8

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 18, 2019

Give The Gift of Culture This Holiday Season!

Black Monarchy Unique African and African Inspired Apparel and Accessories 527 W. Utica Ave. Hours Mon. Tue. Thurs. Fri 12-6 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. -6 p.m.

Sun. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.. (347) 508-5267 find on IG @ shopblackmonarchy fb @blackmonarchy Phylicia Dove / Owner Amon RA Ptah Master Craftsman/Jewelry Designer. The finest in custom designed African centered Jewelry. (716)892-8199

Ananse Ntotan Exclusive African Imported Sculpture, Accessories and Apparel 394 Genesee Street.

Hours Monday – Saturday 12 Noon-5 p.m.

Gail & Truly Lucas founder/ owners.

Global Villages & Global Chic African and International Apparel, Home Accents and Accessories 216 & 242 Grant Street. Hours Monday 9 a.m.

– 6 p.m. and Tues. – Saturday 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Louise Sano / Owner

Saibo African Imports 77 Allen Street. African arts, baskets, mudcloth, men & womens clothing, shea butter, jewelry and more. saiboafricanimports@yahoo. com Janies Emporium A Wide Array of International Apparel and One of a Kind Accessories Hours Tues, 11am – 6pm, Wed 12-4pm, Thurs 1- 6pm,Fri 12-4pm Sat. 10am- 4pm 716 573-6456 or go to janiesemporium.com Alisha Tagger Powell / Owner

"Those who believe, can move mountains, those who believe they can't, cannot"

RISE HIGHER A Book Review BY MICHAEL HILL Rise Higher, by local author Jesse Key, is a good book for students, middle school grades and above. A biographical story that carries profound meaning, Key’s memoir captures the keen observations of a bright and talented youth deeply affected by social conditions and by the natural rural environment.

It offers to students and teachers, insight to American history and the life experiences of African American youth in Southern States in the late 1940’s through the early 60’s.

It is an excellent resource for motivating student achievement through African American cultural heritage.

A short memoir of a period in the life of Jesse Key and his family, Rise Higher tells the story of growing up in the Jim Crow South. It expresses the trepidation of dealing with the dominant culture of White supremacy, as well as the excitement and exuberance of a youth during the northern migration of African American families fleeing racist exploitation and violence.

Jesse Key, an accomplished teacher, musician, visual artist and entrepreneur, shares in poignant detail, episodes of his life as a youth in Tupelo, Mississippi and later in Oberlin, Ohio. His story traverses the feeling and emotions of a child facing the challenges of social and economic injustice. As a youth arriving in Oberlin, he is mesmerized by the culture of education and social refinement of Central

State College, a Historical Black College. The campus, the students and his unexpected encounter with the College President make a huge impression on Key. Blessed with loving parents, Jesse was provided with a protective home environment of learning and discipline. He is nurtured to be a self-empowered learner and achiever. The book conveys the life lessons, skills, wisdom and values instilled by his parents. Southern African American family culture is presented in both its practicality of survival, and inspiration of achievement for a greater quality of life. Every Black parents dream, that their child will excel in life, achieving more than they, is realized in Rise Higher as Jesse and his siblings demonstrate a notable work ethic and character.

The book is a memoir and more. In four sections, Key presents his life experiences, images of his original paintings; historical information and a personal empowerment guide, for students, to gain life success. In both words and artwork, Key captures the natural environment of rural life, the beauty and bounty. It tells the reader of the share cropping conditions of the Key family, their hope in the northern migration; it also presents an aspect of the civil rights movement that honors the role of students in the movement.

Rise Higher is an encouragement of lessons learned and wisdom passed from one

generation to the next. It is the hope of the author that the book will be an inspiration to students and adults, teachers and youth workers to engage in meaningful dialogue, motivating achievement, and embracing life values of humanity that are embedded in African American cultural heritage values.

For further information on the author, his writings and artworks visit: whatittakestolive.com

FOSTER DAD

continued from page 3 But he decided to "come out of retirement" when he heard about Zendaya, Jamel, Nakia, Major and Michaela.

"It's amazing he's taking on all of them," LaMonica, also 27, said. "He does anything for everybody. He's a really a great man." Michael added that caring for children is his fat her's God-given call.

"We're all grown now, I can't believe he's started all over again," Michael said.

"Lamont has been a life-saver to me. I wouldn't be the person that I am today, had Lamont not ventured in my life."

Writing on social media, foster care worker Anna Miller said in reference to the most recent adoption: "My heart is seriously melting today. So much hard work to get these children back together, few will ever know just how much. But being able to witness these children get blessed with a loving home and supportive community is truly priceless... thank you Mr. Thomas and the rest of the village."

Lamont simply said, 'I wanted to make a difference by being a difference, and I love what I do.'

(Portions of this article from Daily mail.com)

9

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 18,2019

"Hair Concepts by Duchess would like to thank our clients for your LOYAL support! Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New

543 E. Amherst St.

(jl/licy;:836-6228

cgell.- 445-8122

'<Smail.· duchess543@iCloud.com

MASTERS

TOUCH

Colston Mobil Auto Repair WILLIAM COLSTON

ASE Certified Technician

• IT'S WINTER CHECK UP TIME!

Phone: 716.896.3910 • 720 E. Ferry St.

Diagnostic Testing, NYS Inspection, Towing Service Tire Repair, Brake Repair, Air Conditioning Service

PEACE & LOVE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!

10

Entertainment

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 18, 2019

Events December 21 The Ugly Christmas Sweater Skating Jam 10-p.m. – 1 a.m. Arena Skating Rink, 30 E. Amherst $10 in advance $15 at the door. go to wblk.com for tickets .

Brian Freeman & Friends VIII

will perform on stage Friday, Dec. 20 at The Tralf. Doors open at 7, show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased at the Tralf Box Offic and Doris Records.Brian is best known for his trumpet work in local jazz outfit, Taylor Made Jazz – Buffalo’s most esteemed jazz group from the late 1980s through the early 2000s. Freeman’s upcoming concert promises a night of great jazz and of course the talented Brian Freeman on trumpet.

Ladell McLin, David “Teaspoon” Hulett and Juni Booth : On Monday, December 23, at 9 p.m., Ladell

Rick James

Birthday Celebration!

Save the Date! On Saturday January 25, a Rick James Birthday Celebration will be held at the Millennium Hotel, 2040 Walden Avenue at 7:30 p.m. with performances by the Kenny Hawkins All Star Band, a Teena Marie Tribute

by Tonya Deion and special guest Paul Anthony of Full Force, Mike Porter with the Nickle City Band and Oscar Rotten and his Blues Band of No Goods. Tickets are $25 in advance and $35 at the door and available at Doris Records, Revolver Records and Cool Beat Records. The celebration is being brought you

by Carmen,/Mary Jane Productions, Rick James’ brother.

McLin, will be joined by David “Teaspoon” Hulett and Juni Booth as they rock the Sportsman’s Tavern, 326 Amherst St, Buffalo. Admission just $12!

SUPPORT THE ARTS!

SEE YOU AT THE

EVENTS

December 22 The Holiday Jam Hosted by Rishon Odel Featuring Avys BurroughsAlto Sax, Chris RudroffAlto /Tenor Sax, George Caldwell- Piano Keys, Grace Lougen- Guitar, Levi Bennett -Drums, Tom Marinaro-Alto/ Tenor Sax 6 p.m. at the CMC 145 Broadway $10 donation.

December 22 Hip Hop Karoake Christmas Edition and Ugly Sweater Party at Venu, 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. with host OJ Barker, Billie Essco and DJ Lil Gabby for bottle service text 716 553-3365 .

December 27 Cal Parmer Presents: The Reset 2019 -2020 at Buffalo Iron Works with opening act Singing Cops Officer Mike Norwood Jr. Jonathan C. Johnson, Moe Badger, Eddie Payne and Preech Freedom Doors at 8 p.m. show at 9:30 p.m. $20 at door.

December 31 Mr. D. Wilson x CM3 presents New Years Eve 2020 Extravaganza on Tuesday December 31, 10:30 p.m. – 3:30 a.m. Buffalo Grand Hotel, 120 Church Street get tickets at www.

MRDWILSON.COM or on Eventbrite.com, also at Doris Records and The Oakk Room .

11

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 18,2019

Open Buffalo Sankofa Celebration Sankofa is an African word from the Akan tribe in Ghana. One literal translation is, "it is not taboo to fetch what is at risk of being left behind." A more modern interpretation is that "in order to move forward, one must learn from the past."

As Open Buffalo recognizes five years serving Buffalo, we will hold a Sankofa Celebration on January 9, so that we can reflect on the lessons learned, the victories won, and prepare for our collective work in the year to come.

The fundraiser will be held from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. at the Northland Workforce Training Center, 683 Northland Ave., Donation: $50 per person. The event includes a spoken word performance by Open Buffalo Emerging Leader and social justice poet, Jillian Hanesworth, delicious New Orleans-inspired food by January 9, 2020 • 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Manna@Northland, a silent Northlands Workforce Training Center auction, one complimentary drink ticket, movement music, A fundraiser for Open Buffalo to support and more!

Join Us

racial, economic, and ecological justice $50.00 per person www.openbuffalo.org for tickets

19th SPECTACULAR EDITION!

CGI ROCHESTER INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL

JUNE 19 - 27, 2020

Together, we have learned a lot and accomplished a lot in the last five years; however, there is so much more to do.

As we enter what could be one of the most challenging years in recent history, we need unity, we need a collective strategy, we need empowered leaders...we need you.

Please join us, we hope to see you there!

Open Buffalo's mission is to advance racial, economic, and ecological justice. We do so through skillbuilding, network connecting, and actiating leadership opportunities.

Our goal is for all communities in Western New York to thrive free from discrimination and poverty.

If you cannot make the event and want to support the work ahead, contact our development office at (716) 243-8777 x 108.

SUPPORT THE

ARTS!

FRIDAY, JUNE 26, 8PM KODAK HALL AT EASTMAN THEATRE

BUY AT ROCHESTERJAZZ.COM CHARGE BY PHONE 585-454-2060 CHERYL DINOLFO COUNTY EXECUTIVE

Follow us:

Chalenger_Nile Rodgers_5105x55.indd 1

12/13/19 1:38 PM

LOCS, TWISTS, DREDS: Be Happy, Nappy and Care Free!

Hair To Go Natural Salon was the first dedicated natural hair salon in Buffalo. When we started Hair To Go Natural we were pretty much the only salon servicing locs. Now locs are everywhere. For some they are a form of self-expression, to others it’s a question of identity.

Winter is here and it is a good time to start your locs. A lot of people don’t like the start of locs but I say this is a great time to get them started. Hats, scarves and do-rags will take you through the ugly phase of the locs and by spring you will be on your way.

I have been starting, twisting, coloring, trimming and extending locs for 30 plus years when it was rare to see anyone with them, (Bob Marley) now they are everywhere.

Methods used to create locs depends on your hair texture. Locs can be obtained by letting your hair form on it’s own. Back combing, sponging, interlocing and two strand twisting is some of the techniques used to create locs.

We at Hair To Go maintain, detox, color, twist, style, repair and re-install locs that were cut and re-attached.

Locs are a form of freedom and gives a royal/regal look to any attire. Locs also make a fashion statement and you can express your individuality. Locs are low maintenance. Cleaning your scalp is a must and for mature locs detoxing removes them of the build-up. You won’t have too many bad hair days!

Some of us have negative feelings about locs based on their need to have straight/permed hair. Remember to keep silk or satin scarves/do-rags to sleep or shower in to keep the lint out and also to stop the cotton sheets from robbing them of their oil which can also lead to breakage.

Be happy nappy and care free, embrace the natural! Check us out on facebook/instagram call Hair To Go Natural 716/8832000 for your hair care needs.

BUFFALO CASTING CALL! Citrola Casting is gearing up for its next motion picture and is seeking background actors of all ages and ethnicities to portray pedestrians, drivers, patrons, and more for an upcoming Fox Searchlight Pictures film directed

by Academy Award Winner Guillermo del Toro set in the 1940’s. To submit go to citrolacasting.com/searchlightpictures and fill out a profile for consideration! All background roles are PAID. Shooting end of February in Buffalo, NY. All background must be local to Buffalo (within 1.5 hrs of Buffalo).

No experience required!

Holidays at The Broadway Market: 999 Broadway Ave. Pictures with Santa 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. $5 each. Holiday Train and Wine show (free) both Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 .

Info on BroadwayMarket.org

DECEMBER SPECIAL !

12

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 18, 2019

Charter School of Inquiry Students Present Annual Kwanzaa Celebration

A

s hordes of shoppers descend on the Internet and area stores to ready themselves for Christmas, the students at the Charter School of Inquiry are also preparing to celebrate a different holiday.

Kwanzaa is coming.

The holiday, which honors the deep roots of those of African descent, runs from Dec. 26 through Jan. 1. Kwanzaa, a Swahili word that means “first fruits,” honors the tradition of many African cultures that celebrate the first fruits of the harvest.

And CSI is ready.

Each grade is doing activities that represent a principle of Kwanzaa,” said Rebecca Roman, CSI’s music teacher. Her classes have been learning songs that they will perform at the school’s annual holiday celebration, which will be held Thursday (Dec. 19). On Thursday (Dec. 12), a group of students showed off their skills with a stellar, energetic rendition of “Sing a Song of Kwanzaa.”

Roman and Andrea Pawarski, CSI’s art teacher, have been coordinating the effort as their students tackle the Nguzo Saba: The Seven Principles of Kwanzaa.

Kindergarten students were tasked with Umoja, or unity.

They are decorating plastic “unity” cups with African patterns.

Nia (purpose) is the province of the first graders. “They’re weaving mats with Adinkra symbols,” Pawarski said, referring to glyphs representing concepts or stories that are frequently used in pottery and fabrics. The mats, known as Mkeka, represent tradition, which is considered the foundation on which everything else rests.

According to Pawarski, many class discussions have centered around how students can make a difference in the world.

Second-graders, following the principle of Kuumba (creativity), have been creating collages that incorporate Muhindi (corn) and are inspired by French artist Henri Matisse. In the third grade, they’re celebrating Imani (faith) by printing African patterns on wrapping paper for the Zawadi (gifts) that are part of the Kwanzaa tradition.

The fourth-graders have Kujichagulia (self-determination).

They’re creating mosaic paper candles, which symbolize the seven candles of Kwanzaa. Traditionally, there is one black candle (for the people), three red candles (symbolizing the people’s struggle), and three green candles (symbolizing the future and hope).

By Melvin Bankhead III Special to The Challenger Ujima, or collective work and responsibility, is the province of the fifth grade. The class is creating ceramic fruits and vegetables that symbolize the harvested Mazao (crops).

The sixth grade is working on Ujamaa (cooperative economics). The class is creating sellable artwork that includes printed t-shirts (also adorned with Adinkra symbols), bracelets, earrings, and other items that will generate funds to donate to Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and a local SPCA Serving Erie County shelter.

All of the students’ work comes together to complete the traditional set of Kwanzaa celebratory symbols. The Mazao (crops), Mahindi (corn), a Kikombe cha Umoja (unity cup) Zawadi (gifts), and a Kinara (candle holder) holding the Mishumaa Saba (seven candles) are all placed on the Mkeka (mat).

The students’ extensive work reflects CSI’s culture, which infuses African-American history, art, culture, music, heritage and achievement throughout the school’s classes. In recent weeks, the school’s art, culinary, music and history lessons have addressed Kwanzaa’s principles.

Celebrating Kwanzaa as part of the curriculum fits perfectly with CSI’s mission, as stated by Helene Kramer, who cofounded the school in 2015.

“When we started this school, we wanted to nurture African-American students in their own history, culture and educate them in their heritage stories,” said Kramer, chair of CSI’s Board of Trustees and a former president of the Buffalo Board of Education. “We are the only school in the region that offers parents and their children this full and focused African and AfricanAmerican immersion.”

Of course, a quality education isn’t the only thing students are learning at CSI. “A fourth-grade student (was) excited to purchase a shirt … because she loved the design, she loves animals, and wanted to support animals,” recalls Pawarski, the art teacher. “(The student) said something along the lines of, ‘Well, I’m definitely going to bring in my $5 because I love animals and want to help them."

Dr. Z and Dr. Tarah are Teaming up to Treat Patients in the South Buffalo Area

I

n the Spring of 2017, Dr. Ziarkowski (Dr. Z) acquired South Buffalo Chiropractic from his mentor, Dr. Amabile, who had to step down due to illness. Built on the hallmarks of compassion and care, as well as first-rate treatment, South Buffalo Chiropractic was established with a goal to become the largest chiropractic care provider in the area. The current doctors of South Buffalo Chiropractic continue to honor that vision. This vision of the past and present doctors combined, is to provide the patients with the means to achieve the highest possible quality of life, to improve their health through personal dedication and cutting-edge technology, and to help them heal, without surgery, in the most affordable manner possible.

Dr. Z worked with Dr. Amabile for over 10 years at his South Buffalo Chiropractic practice.

After starting his own business in 2008, Universal Chiropractic, Dr. Z made his way back to his roots re-opening South Buffalo Chiropractic. Shortly after, Dr. Z integrated Dr. Tarah Dolce into the practice. Dr. Z chose Dr. Tarah to lead the South Buffalo office because of her strong leadership skills and her desire to build the practice and provide care to the surrounding community.

Dr. Tarah received her Bachelor of Science degree from SUNY Brockport in 2009 and her Doctorate of Chiropractic from D’Youville College in 2013. After graduation, she relocated to Pittsburgh to begin her career, and in 2014 she returned to Buffalo to continue chiropractic care and be closer to friends and family. Dr. Tarah enjoys treating patients of all ages and is committed to making Buffalo healthier by educating patients of the importance of spinal health and chiropractic care. When Tarah is out of the office she enjoys spending time with her husband and two young children.

Dr. Tarah and South Buffalo Chiropractic offer an array of treatment options for pain relief including manual adjustments, spinal decompression, cold laser therapy and low force instrument adjustments. Dr. Tarah is certified in the Graston Technique and Kinesotaping.

At South Buffalo Chiropractic we have been specializing in work-related injuries and auto accidents for over 35 years. We accept no fault and workers’ compensation cases.

Schedule an appointment with South Buffalo Chiropractic at (716) 822-2225

Handmade Kwanzaa items by CSI students in preparation for the school's annual Kwanzaa celebration.

It’s not just the younger kids who are excited to be making a difference, Pawarski added.

“The sixth-graders also seemed very passionate about helping kids with cancer, which was a big motivator for them to choose Roswell as a local community member to support.”

Melvin Bankhead III is a member of CSI’s Board of Trustees. A former editor for The Buffalo News, he is now the owner of MB Ink!, a public relations consultant firm.

13

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 18,2019

Kwanzaa 2019: Celebrating Our African Culture THEME: “The Afrikan Man, The Original Man In Full Effect!”

All programs will be from 7:00 – 9:00pm unless otherwise noted.

Admission is free at all programs!

-SCHEDULE OF EVENTSDecember 26-Thursday Umoja - Unity Kwanzaa Dedication!!

City Hall in Niagara Square at 12pm Black Liberation Flag Raising Evening Program Opening Ceremony Tribute to the Ancestors & Elders Traditionkeepers Black Storytellers of WNY Access to A-Free-Ka BUILD Community School 340 Fougeron Street December 27-Friday Kujichagulia-Self Determination An evening of electrifying performances by, African American Cultural Center BUILD Community School 340 Fougeron Street December 28-Saturday Ujima-Collective Work & Responsibility Children's Kwanzaa “I AM Afrikan First” Afrikan Cultural Education, & Art Activities & Storytelling 11am – 4pm Youth Entrepreneur Marketplace East Community School 820 Northampton Street <<All children must be accompanied by an adult!>> Evening Program Ujima Theater Ujima in Action! A captivating evening of Arts, Entertainment, and Cultural Activism 429 Plymouth Avenue December 29-Sunday Ujamaa-Cooperative Economics Evening Program 6-9:30p.m.

Black Chamber of Commerce Night Opening Address: “The Black Man is The Original Man” by, Min. Dahveed Muhammad Panel Discussion: Afrikan Men in Business Legacy: How we did it! How we Keep it! Bailey Avenue Business Association, Fillmore Avenue Business District, East End Business District, and Jefferson Avenue Business District.

Moderator: Richard Cummings, President Black Chamber of Commerce East Community School 820 Northampton Street December 30-Monday Nia-Purpose Keynote Address: Dr. Maulana Karenga *Health, Beauty, and Massage Therapy tables dedicated to our our brothers. (6-7:30p.m.)

NiaSoul Concert: For the Love of the Black Man! (89:30p.m.)

East Community School 820 Northampton Street December 31-Tuesday Kuumba-Creativity Karamu Feast & Dance!!! 6-9p.m. *Free Potluck! Please bring a dish to share (no red meat, alcohol, pork) Nia Soul Train by, Ras Muata CAO Pratt Willert Center 422 Pratt Street January 1-Wednesday Imani-Faith 12:00-4:00p.m Presentation: “Our Story: An Interactive Class/Presentation on Afrikan Men from the Motherland to Buffalo”

by Queen Mother Eva M. Doyle CAO Alphonso Rafi Greene Center 1423 Fillmore Avenue

Daytime Celebrations and Communiversity Classes: December 26, 2019 2-4pm Lion Blyden Marcus Garvey Way CAO Rafi Center or Juneteenth Bldg (TBD) December 27, 2019 Noon – 2pm Ras Joma Farming While Black Juneteenth Bldg December 28, 2019 Children’s Kwanzaa 11-4 Jessica Miller East Community School December 29, 2019 Noon – 2pm Spiritual Sunday Adegboyega Shamshideen Yoruba Lessons CAO Rafi Center December 30, 2019 Noon – 2pm Patricia A. Elliott Repatriation Process to the Motherland CAO Rafi Center December 31, 2019 Noon – 3pm Dr. KaBa Hiawatha Kamene CAO Pratt Willert Center January 1, 2020 Noon – 4pm Mother Eva Doyle CAO Rafi Center

The Lonnie B. Harrell Afrikan Marketplace is available every evening from 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m.

Buy Black!!!

Pictured above is Dr. Maulana Karenga and his wife and Professor KaBa Hiawatha Kamene (inset). Dr. Karenga and Professor Kamene are our two esteemed national speakers this year.

“Celebrated by millions throughout the world African community, Kwanzaa brings a cultural message which speaks to the best of what it means to be African and human in the fullest sense.” -Maulana Karenga,

Kwanzaa Founder

T

he Buffalo Kwanzaa Committee will host a 53rd Kwanzaa anniversary celebration this year December 26, 2019 thru January 1, 2020.

The creator of Kwanzaa, Dr. Maulana Karenga, is scheduled to deliver his yearly founder’s message Monday December 30 at East High School, 820 Northampton at 7 p.m.

Dr. Karenga is Professor and Chair of Black Studies at California State University at Long Beach; the creator of Kwanzaa, the Nguzo Saba (Seven Principles), Kawaida; and author of several books, including “Introduction to Black Studies.”

On Tuesday, December 31, Dr. Kaba Hiawatha Kamene will be presenting at Kwanzaa this year from 12 noon to 3 p.m. at the Pratt Willert Center. Kaba Hiawatha has starred in several critically acclaimed, documentaries such as Tariq Nasheed’s, Hidden Colors 1, 2, 3, 4, A Pan African, African- Centered educator, consultant, administrator, staff developer and curriculum writer for over 40 years, he has taught every grade level (Pre-K-12) in the New York City Department of Education for over 31 years. Kaba Hiawatha is the creator, Principal Facilitator and Chief Executive Officer of the African-Centered Science Academy, “Per Ankh (Temple/ House of Life).” The Per Ankh is now a feature in the Kemetic Wisdom School at www. shockmetaphysics.com. You can get his free E-Course and study guide at www.kabakamene. com.

This year’s local theme is "The Afrikan Man, The Original Man In Full Effect!”

Sister Akilah/Patricia A. Elliott is this year's Buffalo Kwanzaa Chair.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 18,2019

14

Racially Discriminatory Legislation and Policies Must Be Stopped The Unintended Consequences of a Menthol Cigarette Ban to Black America From pro-slavery laws to Jim Crow, to Prohibition, to racial profiling, to Stop-and-Frisk, history is clear: racist laws and discriminatory bans have been devastating for Black America.

Today, Law Enforcement Action Partnership (LEAP) and National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) have joined together with other African-American law enforcement executives to call on you - our readers in Black communities across the nation - to see the warning signs of yet another proposed racially discriminatory law: the menthol cigarette ban.

It is a well-known fact that over 85 percent of African Americans who smoke prefer menthol cigarettes. There is no factual basis to assert that a menthol cigarette ban will stop African Americans from smoking. In fact, the unintended consequences of such a raciallydiscriminatory ban will set the stage for more negative and more likely counterproductive interactions between law enforcement and African Americans.

While proponents argue that a menthol cigarette ban could encourage menthol cigarette smokers to quit smoking cold-turkey, another possible outcome could be extremely dangerous—the creation of an illicit market. If this happens, illegal sales of menthol cigarettes will likely be concentrated in communities of color, leading to a greater police presence, citations, fines, and arrests for selling a product that for the past 50 years has been legal.

Possible bans on menthol cigarettes are now being considered throughout the United States as add-ons to e-cigarette bans. It must be said that while FDA has deemed teen vaping an “epidemic,” there is no teen menthol cigarette epidemic. The fact is teen cigarette use has steadily been on the decline over the past decade.

Recently in New York, the mothers of Trayvon Martin and Eric Garner courageously issued a public statement warning against the consequences of a proposed menthol cigarette ban. Sybrina Fulton and Gwendolyn Carr stated, “When you ban a product sold mostly in Black communities, you must consider the reality of what will happen to that very same over-represented community in the criminal justice system.”

Law enforcement leaders like Law Enforcement Action Partnership (LEAP), National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE), Grand Council of Guardians, and National Association of Black Law Enforcement Officers (NABLEO) have stated countless times that a ban on menthol cigarettes will have unintended negative consequences, especially for African Americans.

Over the past 30 years, we have reduced tobacco consumption overall across this country by about 40 percent. And we did not do that with the criminal justice community. We did that with education, we did it with treatment, we did it from a health and educational perspective.

Let’s continue with that. Let’s not do something that’s going to end up with these unintended consequences of increasing interaction between police and community members.

Major Neill Franklin (Ret.), Executive Director of the Law Enforcement Action Partnership (LEAP): “I dedicated 34 years of my life to public safety, enforcing the laws that our legislators placed before me. That’s what cops do, and we trust that those laws are well thought out, studied and based upon sound data and evidence. As we begin to mirror the days of alcohol prohibition with tobacco bans, expect the violence and corruption that comes with the illicit market and add something else, the over criminalization of the black community.”

Jiles Ship, President of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives – New Jersey (NOBLE): “Banning menthol cigarettes would be a 21st Century attempt at Prohibition, a past failure of government to restrict a previously legal product. As we learned with Prohibition, every time the government tries to ban something, it seems to cause other problems. And unfortunately, a menthol cigarette ban would be another example of government action that disproportionately disrupts the Black community.”

Charles Billips, National Chair Person of Grand Council of Guardians, “The first question I asked is how are they going to implement this ban on menthol cigarettes, knowing that a large number of Black and Brown people smoke menthol cigarettes? It would be best to educate the communities on the affect it has on our health instead of a ban enforced through Law Enforcement.”

As The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once prophetically said, “The time is always right to do what is right.” And the right thing to do for our families and communities and for all who stand for freedom, justice and equality is to speak out against all forms of racial discrimination and disproportionate law enforcement, as well as the systems, laws, bans and policies that perpetuate them.

Speak out against racism. Stand up against discrimination. Let your voices be heard.

NATIONAL

VOICES

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 18,2019

NATIONAL/INTERNATIONAL

Death Toll From US Wars in 3 Nations "Staggering" By conservative estimate, the US has directly killed nearly half a million people, and doomed millions more, in just three of the countries it is attacking. Brown University’s Costs of War Project recently released a new estimate of the total death toll from the U.S. wars in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. The numbers, while conservatively estimated, are staggering. Brown’s researchers estimate that at least 480,000 people have been directly killed by violence over the course of these conflicts, more than 244,000 of them civilians. In addition to those killed by direct acts violence, the number of indirect deaths — those resulting from disease, displacement, and the loss of critical infrastructure — is believed to be several times higher, running into the millions.

The Other Drug Epidemic

According to a New York Times report, while news reports focus on an epidemic of opioid abuse among young adults, another totally legal and usually hidden drug epidemic is occurring among older adults. According to the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists, people aged 65 to 69 take an average of 15 prescriptions a year, and those aged 80 to 84 take 18 prescriptions a year. And that’s in addition to the myriad over-the-counter drugs, herbal remedies, vitamins and minerals they may take, any of which — alone or in combination — could cause more problems than they cure. Among people over 65, 44 percent of men and 57 percent of women take five or more nonprescription and/or prescription drugs a week, and 12 percent take 10 or more.

Impeachment Update The impeachment process is exhausting, and it feels obvious how things will ultimately end. Following a House Rules Committee hearing today( Dec. 18), the full House is expected to impeach Trump tomorrow (Dec.19), making him the third US president ever to be impeached. The Senate would then hold a trial next year to consider whether to remove him from office. Though Senate Democrats don’t have the numbers to send Trump packing, an impeachment trial would put his legacy and reputation at stake. Chuck Schumer, the Senate’s top Democrat, is pushing for a trial to include new testimony from White House officials and new documents. Many Republicans, though, would like to get it all over with quickly. GOP leaders need 51 votes for things to go their way, but they don't have that yet – which means it’s still unclear how a trial would play out.

"The Lawrence" And Writer Arthur Giacalone

In the Dec. 4 edition of The Challenger in the article by Arthur Giacalone, we left out the following in reference identifying the author.: Art Giacalone is a Buffalo resident, semi-retired zoning/environmental lawyer, who posts on development-related topics at his blog, https://WithAllDueRespectBlog.com.

Hua Hu Ching

by Lao Tzu

Twenty-One Each moment is fragile and fleeting. The moment of the past cannot be kept, however beautiful. The moment of the present cannot be held, however enjoyable. The moment of the future cannot be caught, however desirable. But the mind is desperate to fix the river in place: Possessed by ideas of the past, preoccupied with images of the future, it overlooks the plain truth of the moment. The one who can dissolve her mind will suddenly discover the Tao at her feet, and clarity at hand.

“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

Printend In Canada

OPEN BUFFALO IS POISED TO LEAD WITH NEW STRATEGY AND MISSION After five years in the social justice space working on everything from establishing the FB Community Land Trust in the Fruit Belt Neighborhood of Buffalo to graduating more than 100 Emerging Leaders from our signature program, Open Buffalo is set to begin our sixth year of nonprofit operations with a new strategic plan and mission that will solidify our presence in Western New York.

Established in 2014 to help advance a diverse set of social justice initiatives throughout Buffalo, while also working collaboratively with a number of others, our organization recently underwent a year-long strategic planning process that identified our leadership development programs and issuesbased campaign organizing as our core strengths. These strengths underscore niche offerings in which Open Buffalo can take a leading role and fulfill its mission to advance racial, economic, and ecological justice.

“If we lift up individuals to combat pervasive inequities of the system through intensive skill-building, then we are creating a pipeline of leaders who can use their voice for community-based organizing, action and change,” said Executive Director Franchelle Parker.

As an example of a current and relevant issue facing the community and the nation, Open Buffalo is currently organizing a youth civic engagement initiative that will educate and engage 5,000 new young voters in advance of what will be a critical 2020 election cycle for social justice advocates.

Parker added that “2020 may be one of the most critical years of our lifetimes and it’s imperative to teach the upcoming generation not only their civic responsibility, but the relevance of their voice for shaping our world.”

A celebration of our first five years and rollout of our new mission is planned for the evening of January 9, 2020 at the Northland Workforce Training Center. The community can learn more about Open Buffalo at www.openbuffalo.org

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

P: 716 881.1051 F: 716 881.1053

15

The Electoral College’s Racist Origins

I

By Wilfred Codrington III

s a color-blind political system possible under our Constitution? If it is, the Supreme Court’s evisceration of the Voting Rights Act in 2013 did little to help matters. While Black people in America today are not experiencing 1950s levels of voter suppression, efforts to keep them and other citizens from participating in elections began within 24 hours of the Shelby County v. Holder ruling and have only increased since then.

In Shelby County’s oral argument, Justice Antonin Scalia cautioned, “Whenever a society adopts racial entitlements, it is very difficult to get them out through the normal political processes.”

Ironically enough, there is some truth to an otherwise frighteningly numb claim. American elections have an acute history of racial entitlements—only they don’t privilege Black Americans.

For centuries, White votes have gotten undue weight, as a result of innovations such as poll taxes and voter-ID laws and outright violence to discourage racial minorities from voting. (The point was obvious to anyone paying attention: As William F. Buckley argued in his essay “Why the South Must Prevail,” White Americans are “entitled to take such measures as are necessary to prevail, politically and culturally,” anywhere they are outnumbered because they are part of “the advanced race.”) But America’s institutions boosted White political power in less obvious ways, too, and the nation’s oldest structural racial entitlement program is one of its most consequential: the Electoral College.

Commentators today tend to downplay the extent to which race and slavery contributed to the Framers’ creation of the Electoral College, in effect whitewashing history: Of the considerations that factored into the Framers’ calculus, race and slavery were perhaps the foremost.

Of course, the Framers had a number of other reasons to engineer the Electoral College. Fearful that the president might fall victim to a host of civic vices—that he could become susceptible to corruption or cronyism, sow disunity, or exercise overreach—the men sought to constrain executive power consistent with constitutional principles such as federalism and checks and balances.

The delegates to the Philadelphia convention had scant conception of the American presidency— the duties, powers, and limits of the office. But they did have a handful of ideas about the method for selecting the chief executive. When the idea of a popular vote was raised, they griped openly that it could result in too much democracy. With few objections, they quickly dispensed with the notion that the people might choose their leader.

But delegates from the slaveholding South had another rationale for opposing the direct election method, and they had no qualms about articulating it: Doing so would be to their disadvantage.

Even James Madison, who professed a theoretical commitment to popular democracy, succumbed to the realities of the situation. The future president acknowledged that “the people at large was in his opinion the fittest” to select the chief executive. And yet, in the same breath, he captured the sentiment of the South in the most “diplomatic” terms.

There was one difficulty however of a serious nature attending an immediate choice by the people. The right of suffrage was much more diffusive in the Northern than the Southern States; and the latter could have no influence in the election on the score of the Negroes. The substitution of electors obviated this difficulty and seemed on the whole to be liable to fewest objections.

Behind Madison’s statement were the stark facts: The populations in the North and South were approximately equal, but roughly one-third of those living in the South were held in bondage.

Because of its considerable, nonvoting slave population, that region would have less clout under a popular-vote system. The ultimate solution was an indirect method of choosing the president, one that could leverage the three-fifths compromise, the Faustian bargain they’d already made to determine how congressional seats would be apportioned. With about 93 percent of the country’s slaves toiling in just five southern states, that region was the undoubted beneficiary of the compromise, increasing the size of the South’s congressional delegation by 42 percent. When the time came to agree on a system for choosing the president, it was all too easy for the delegates to resort to the three-fifths compromise as the foundation. The peculiar system that emerged was the Electoral College.

Right from the get-go, the Electoral College has produced no shortage of lessons about the impact of racial entitlement in selecting the president. History buffs and Hamilton fans are aware that in its first major failure, the Electoral College produced a tie between Thomas Jefferson and his putative running mate, Aaron Burr. What’s less known about the election of 1800 is the way the Electoral College succeeded, which is to say that it operated as one might have expected, based on its embrace of the three-fifths compromise. The South’s baked-in advantages—the bonus electoral votes it received for maintaining slaves, all while not allowing those slaves to vote—made Continued Page 16

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

• Ad Deadline: Friday 5 p.m.

• Classified Deadline: Thursday 5 p.m.

We respectfully submit that the opinions expressed on the editorial pages of this newspaper are not necessairly those of Challenger Community News Corporation or its advertisers.

Advertising /News/ Information/Inquiries adver tising@thechallengernews.com

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

16

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 18,2019

RISE UP RIGHT SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS Welcome to Rise Up Right, where we give you the best sports news and highlights, and updates taking full circle in the sports world. Thank you for your continued support....and with that being said Let's Rise Up....

Playoff Picture AFC Torch's NFL Scoreboard 1. Ravens 12-2 Bills 17 Steelers 10 2. Patriots 11-3 Ravens 42 Jets 21 3. Chiefs 10-4 Chiefs 23 Broncos 3 4. Texans 9-5 Packers 21 Bears 13 5. Bills 10-4 Patriots 34 Bengals 13 6. Steelers 8-6 Buccaneers 38 Lions 17 Texans 24 Titans 21 NFC Giants 36 Dolphins 20 1. Seahawks 11-3 Eagles 37 Redskins 27 2. Packers 11-3 Seahawks 30 Panthers 24 3. Saints 10-3 Jaguars 20 Raiders 16 4. Cowboys 7-7 Cardinals 38 Browns 24 5. 49ers 11-3 Vikings 39 Chargers 10 6. Vikings 10-4 Cowboys 44 Rams 21 Falcons 29 49ers 22 NCAA Championship Colts at Saints Playoff Picture (Mon Night Game) LSU vs Oklahoma Ohio State vs Clemson Buffalo Sabres News Last 4 Games.

Next 4 Games Islanders 3 Sabres 2 OT 12/14. Sabres at Maple Leafs Sabres 4 Predators 3 12/12.

Sabres at Flyers Sabres 5 Blues 2 12/10.

Kings at Sabres Sabres 3 Oilers 2 OT 12/8.

Sabres at Senators In Other Sports Highlights Bills have clinched a playoff spot for the 2nd time in 3 seasons.

The 10 wins they have currently is a 1st since 1999. The Buffalo Bill's will be at New England at 430pm on Saturday 12/21.

The UB Bulls will face Charlotte on Friday evening at the Bahamas Bowl. Will they win their 1st bowl in UB Football history?

The Beast Elite Ducks won another national championship. Congratulations to the Ducks.

Sabres are 2nd currently in the Atlantic division with 39 points.

Mick Snowden was named USCAA National Player of the week for the Bryant&Stratton Bobcats as he eclipsed 1000 career points.

Bryant&Stratton Women's Team is currently 10-1.

Bryant&Stratton Men's Team is currently 8-2.

For more sports talk and news follow me on Facebook @Andre Robinson or D'Andre Torch Robinson. therealtorch716 or riseupfamilyseven16 on Instagram.

Watch Rise Up Unlimited TV Show every Thursdays at 130pm and Saturdays at 730am on Channel 1302 for Spectrum Cable Subscribers. Also tune in to Power 96.5FM every Sunday from 6pm to 7pm as I am a Co Host on the WUFO Sport Report.

Happy Holidays Sports Fans and Thank You for your Continued Support!

Bills Defense Dominate in 17—100 Win Over Steelers The Bills defense exposed Pittsburgh Steelers third string QB Delvin Hodge as having no arm strength on throwing the ball towards sidelines and on deep balls. The Bills had an excellent week of film study in preparing on how to defend against the injury plagued team. The second ranked NFL defense forced 5 turnovers against the Steelers offense including four interceptions and one fumble recovery.

Tre Davious White is now emerging on the national level as an all pro shut down cornerback. The Bills need to get ready and pay the man. They also need to pay defensive end Jordan Phillips with the man currently being used on over rated Trent Murphy. Murphy has done very little to earn big time money.

Yes, speaking of a waste of money, the Bills tight end Tyler Kroft caught his first touchdown since 2017, yes, 2017!

It was his fourth catch of the season for his whopping 9 million dollar contract.

He should be arrested for stealing money from Bills organization. If the Bills passing game currently rank 28th in the NFL, it could somehow move up between 14th to 20th; this would make Bills a serious playoff contender that could actually make it to Super Bowl LIV. I would add 6’7 rookie tight end into the lineup in place of either Dawson Knox or Tyler Kroft, along with wide receiver Duke Williams, and running back TJ Yeldon to possibly jump start a horrible offense. I’m thinking taller more physical receivers could help Josh Allen make some plays down field. That would send full back Patrick Dimarco and wide receiver Robert Foster to the bench.

Bills QB Josh Allen continues to put up Tyrod Taylor numbers and is benefitting from a Super Bowl caliber defense. Josh was once again awful and now starting to hang his receivers out to fry with very high uncatchable passes that will get our receivers seriously hurt. Yes, Josh can run for first downs but ranking 28th in passing is not going to get it done. The Bills must find a quality mobile backup QB with experience and not prone to turning the ball over. Let’s be real here, the Bills won game over the Steelers and most games this season in spite of Josh Allen’s horrible accuracy problems. Allen can’t continue to go 13 for 25 for a total of 139 total passing yards. You must keep in mind the Bills faced a lot of rookie QB’s throughout the season but in the playoffs you are going against the best QB’s in the league and Josh Allen must perform much better Allen’s best game was against a Dallas Cowboys team that really laid down on the job against Bills with no pass rush at all.

The Bills head to Foxboro, Mass for another nationally televised game against New England Patriots. The Bills out played the Patriots last time and should have won the game, but here we are and Bills are now in the playoffs for the second time in three years. This would be an emotional win for Bills to finally start beating the Patriots on a consistent basis and show everyone they are ready to be a dominate team in the AFC Eastern Division. It’s quite similar to the Miami Dolphins domination of the Bills for 20 years.

I see the Bills winning 17-16 in another exciting finish. I also see the Bills beating the New York Jets 24 - 20 in a last regular season game at New ERA Field. The Jets game should be played with backups and QB Davis Webb could get some action to see if he might be a reliable QB especially if Josh Allen’s erratic play continues into next season. If the Bills play Houston Texas in the playoffs during wildcard weekend I see the Bills winning 17—14 or playing the KC Chiefs losing to them 27 – 17.

Happy Holidays, Happy Kwanzaa.I look forward to writing in 2020! Follow me on Twitter: georgeradney@georgeradman, Facebook, Instagram, and Cable TV: Pro Talk in Buffalo & Rochester, NY. RADIO: 105.5.FM The Beat of Rochester Every Saturday morning 7 AM to 8 AM Pro Talk Plus, Call in to join the conversation at 585 595 1055

Legislator Baskin Seeking Spring Interns Erie County Legislator, Chairwoman April N.M. Baskin is seeking high school students to serve as unpaid interns from February through May of 2020.

Interns will assist the legislator and her support staff during regular sessions of the Erie County Legislature and in her district office to gain relevant experience. Interviews will be scheduled with prospective intern candidates; women and minority students are strongly encouraged to apply.

The desired intern qualifications are: A strong desire to learn public policy and the legislative process; Excellent written communication skills; Analytical and research skills; Strong work ethic; Ability to handle a fast-paced environment. A strong desire to learn public policy and the legislative process; Excellent written communication skills; Analytical and research skills; Strong work ethic; Ability to handle a fast-paced environment.

There is no compensation for program participation.

Students will interact with County officials as they learn about the function of county government, the procedures for introducing new legislation, and the roles of the various departments in each branch. Interns will be supervised by a legislative staff person and will be assigned to either subject-oriented committees or to the offices of staff.

For more information, please contact Pedro Gonzalez at the district office at 716-895-1849 or via email at pedro.gonzalezortiz@erie.gov.

ELECTORAL COLLEGE

continued from page 15 the difference in the election outcome. It gave the slaveholder Jefferson an edge over his opponent, the incumbent president and abolitionist John Adams. To quote Yale Law’s Akhil Reed Amar, the third president “metaphorically rode into the executive mansion on the backs of slaves.” That election continued an almost uninterrupted trend of southern slaveholders and their doughfaced sympathizers winning the White House that lasted until Abraham Lincoln’s victory in 1860.

In 1803, the Twelfth Amendment modified the Electoral College to prevent another Jefferson-Burr–type debacle. Six decades later, the Thirteenth Amendment outlawed slavery, thus ridding the South of its windfall electors. Nevertheless, the shoddy system continued to cleave the Ameriacn democratic ideal along racial lines. In the 1876 presidential election, the Democrat Samuel Tilden won the popular vote, but some electoral votes were in dispute, including those in— wait for it—Florida. An ad hoc commission of lawmakers and Supreme Court justices was empaneled to resolve the matter.

Ultimately, they awarded the contested electoral votes to Republican Rutherford B. Hayes, who had lost the popular vote.

As a part of the agreement, known as the Compromise of 1877, the federal government removed the troops that were stationed in the South after the Civil War to maintain order and protect black voters.

The deal at once marked the end of the brief Reconstruction era, the redemption of the old South, and the birth of the Jim Crow regime. The decision to remove soldiers from the South led to the restoration of white supremacy in voting through the systematic disenfranchisement of Black people, virtually accomplishing over the next eight decades what slavery had accomplished in the country’s first eight decades. And so the Electoral College’s misfire in 1876 helped ensure that Reconstruction would not remove the original stain of slavery so much as smear it onto the other parts of the Constitution’s fabric, and countenance the racialized patchwork democracy that endured until the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

What’s clear is that, more than two centuries after it was designed to empower southern whites, the Electoral College continues to do just that. The current system has a distinct, adverse impact on black voters, diluting their political power. Because the concentration of black people is highest in the South, their preferred presidential candidate is virtually assured to lose their home states’ electoral votes.

To Be Continued

17

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 18,2019

LEGAL NOTICE BIDS Buffalo City School District Request for Proposals For New Leased Facility for Middle Early College High School The Buffalo Public Schools Division of Plant Services & School Planning is soliciting letters of interest and requests for proposals for the provision of a build-to-suit new facility to be leased to the District for Middle Early College High School. The location shall be in proximity to the SUNY Erie City Campus at 121 Ellicott Street. Design procurement and construction will be the responsibility of the selected owner/developer and the facility will be leased as a turnkey space, including all furnishings and equipment. The completed facility is anticipated to be approximately 40 – 50,000 gross sq. ft. and is required to be ready for occupancy in July 2021.

Beginning Friday, December 20, 2019, the RFP document may be requested via email from Paul McDonnell, AIA, at pmdonnell@buffaloschools.org. The RFP document will include a written narrative, a spatial program, evaluation criteria, and anticipated costs to the District for this facility.

Letters of Interest and Proposals will be received at the Office of Plant Services & School Planning, 403 City Hall, Buffalo, NY 14202 on Thursday, January 23, 2020 at 4:00 p.m.

Paul McDonnell, AIA Director of Facilities Planning

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE BIDS

ERIE COUNTY GOVERNMENT ERIE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH GALE BURSTEIN, M.D. COMMISSIONER

Bids will be received by RP Oak Hill Building Co., Inc. for the D’Youville College – Health Professions HUB Project on 12/27/2019 at 2:00pm.

Please fax bids (716-822-4367) or email (bids@rpoakhill.com) prior to 2:00 pm. The scope of work includes concrete polishing, masonry, millwork, roofing, fireproofing, air barrier, caulking, waterproofing, exterior skin, carpentry, glass & glazing, overhead door, operable partitions, demountable partitions, signage, flooring, epoxy, painting, elevators, fire protection, plumbing, HVAC and electrical, etc. The contract documents may be examined at Construction Exchange or can be purchased at Avalon Printing, (P: 716-995-7777). This project is prevailing wage. ***W/M/DBE & SDVOB participation is encouraged.

Dr. Gale Burstein, Commissioner of the Erie County Department of Health announced today, December 12, 2019 that the next Erie County Health Department Board of Health meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, January 14, 2020 at 3:30 P.M. The meeting will be held in Room 904 of the Rath Building, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York.

Included on the agenda will be a review of the September 10, 2019 meeting minutes, discussion on the Food Policy Council, as well as a Commissioner’s update and old and new business.

ROOMS FOR RENT ROOMSFOR RENT: DelavanHumboldt area, Bailey$325-$480.

Delavan. included.

Everything (716)818-3410.

“Knowing when to stop, you can avoid any danger.”

-Tao Te Ching

JOBS

Buffalo Employment and Training Center /BETC

EMPLOYMENT/CAREERS

716-856-5627

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

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

LEGAL NOTICE BIDS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Please see website for more details:

www.buffalolib.org/content/ employment-opportunities

REQUEST FOR BID Mark Cerrone Inc. is requesting quotes for the Bollier Ave Watermain Replacement 82nd St to Military Rd in Niagara Falls. The scopes of work detailed in contract documents. Optional MWBE Pre-bid meeting will be available upon request at MCI Offices. Documents can be obtained by contacting ttibbs@markcerrone. com, Phone 716-282-5244, Fax 716-282-5245 or iSqFt®. Quotes due electronically or in person at 2368 Maryland Ave., Niagara Falls, NY 14305 by 12/18/19 at 12:00pm.

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

COMMUNITY ACTION ORGANIZATION OF WNY Has Immediate Openings for the following positions Come grow with us!

Director of Employment & Training Director of Housing License Practical Nurse/Health Coordinator Accounts Payable Clerk Data Entry Clerk Family Partner Intake Clerk Substance Abuse Counselor Youth Service Counselor Teachers I/II/III & Certified Teacher Home Visitor Site Manager Visit our website caowny.org to learn more about the requirements and to complete an online application. Erie & Niagara counties.

LEGAL NOTICE BIDS Buffalo City School District Advertisement for Bids Sealed proposals for the following project will be received at the office of Plant Services, 403 City Hall, Buffalo, NY 14202. On Wednesday, January 29, 2020 at 10:00 a.m., proposals will be publicly opened and read aloud for: PROJECT 0305-014: McKinley High School Gymnasium Bleacher Replacement Bids will be opened for a single prime contract: General Construction. Beginning Monday, December 30, 2019, bidding document packages may be viewed and purchased through Avalon Document Services online Planroom website at www. avalonbuff-planroom.com, under “Public Jobs”, or ordered by phone at 716-995-7777. Owner can assume no responsibility for errors, omissions, or other misinformation obtained via other bid document distribution resources.

Please note that required bid bond is 10%. The work will be subject to the equal employment opportunity requirements. Any questions regarding this project, please refer to Juan Perez, AIA, Associate Architect, 716-816-3610.

Paul McDonnell, AIA Director of Facilities Planning

Be A Census Taker  Extra Income  Flexible Hours  Weekly Pay  Paid Training

Apply Online 2020CENSUS.GOV/JOBS For more information or help applying, please call 1-855-JOB-2020

TO ADVERTISE: advertising@thechallengernews.com

Federal Relay Service: 1-800-877-8339 TTY/ASCII www.gsa.gov/fedrelay The U.S. Census Bureau is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

D-1531 | April 2019

18

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 18, 2019

NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS SUN 12/8

MID-9-6-8

3-WAY advertising@thechallengernews.com

ATTORNEYS LAW OFFICE OF DARIA L. PRATCHER, PC “Everything Real Estate” 523 Main Street (716)541-8574 PRATCHER & ASSOCIATES Franklin Muhammad (Pratcher) Attorney 1133 Kensington Avenue (716) 838-4612

ACCESSORIES DEMENSION42 Bracelets - Pearls Purses (716) 440-3700

AUTO BEN’S Downtown Tire

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

BAIL BONDS GIST BAIL BONDS

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

BARBER SHOPS MASTERS TOUCH 1283 E, Delavan (716) 322-5641

BARBERSHOPNY.COM

BOOKS ZAWADI BOOKS 1382 Jefferson Ave. 716-903-6740

BOOKS ALIVE CHRISTIAN BOOKSTORE 2275 Fillmore Ave. (716) 837-1118

CLEANING SERVICE SISTER DIANE'S CLEANING SERVICE

(770 )256-3271 Diane.Shakir@gmail.com Independent Contractor

MON 12/9

MID-2-7-7

TUES 12/10

WED 12/11

MID-8-4-3

MID-5-0-0

THURS 12/12

MID-4-7-1

FRI 12/13

MID-1-7-5

SAT 12/14

MID-6-5-2

EVE-5-0-7

EVE-4-0-2

EVE-8-7-3

EVE-9-0-3

EVE-9-1-7

EVE-2-3-5

EVE-0-3-0

WIN 4

MID- 2-3-0-7 EVE-4-6-7-6

MID-3-2-4-0 EVE-8-6-3-3

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

MID-7-8-0-7 EVE-0-9-0-3

MID-6-0-0-9 EVE-0-6-3-4

MID-6-5-1-8 EVE-1-7-5-4

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

TAKE 5

05-07-14-17-30

02-11-19-27-38

15-22-23-34-36

01-04-19-24-35

07-25-32-34-36

03-08-22-32-37

CLEANING SERVICE SOPHIA CLEAN & CLEAR CLEANING SERVICE (716) 370-3862

OFFICE CLEANER AVAILABLE Monday -Saturday Any Time after 5pm (716) 602- 0000

ELECTRICAL EMPIRE ELECTRIC (716) 634-0330

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

GET PAID! GET PAID FOR OPINIONS! Up to $500 Per Week!

Work 1-4 hours per day only!

Text infoplz to 31996 GET PAID TO DOWNLOAD APPS! Up to $500 Per Week!

Work 1-4 hours per day only!

Text infoplz to 31996

PAINTING & GENERAL REPAIRS BODYGUARD INTERIOR PAINTING & GENERAL REPAIRS

Fully Registered/ Insured.

Seniors Welcome!

(716)940-8502

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

LOTTO

01-14-19-20-29-38 #39

HOT TIPS

4018

022

064

648

Zakiyyah’s Rundown (ZR) Daily Vibrations 981-852-679-254-728-805-545-583-234-532-791-365193-428-4345-268-075-176-974-243-198-513-546-839079-340-645-790-190-653-334-568-919-784-546-894769-234-145-136-044-074-347-092-651-908-756-090198-652-882-681-192-345-678-978-567-786-846-675677-147-790-052-453-132-365-902-784-456-790-109535-780-735-632-460-179-106-801-634-610-235-900567-893-965-435-059-693-354-786-967-913-169-326MA RUTH SPEAKS THE TRUTH! SURE HITS! 168-985-678-198-256-890054-698-679-943-001-202147-001-865-732-855

DECEMBER Vibes 854 214294-190-124-547

“It’s In The Stars”

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

quick money 189-809-444 886-980-422 322-522-355 800-592-390 394-833-924 127-909-418 927-313-466 124-550-098 511-005/201

GAMMA’S DECEMBER PICKS

302-536-741-394-164-870 BEST DECEMBER DOUBLES 662-711-919-422 BEST TRIPLE 999

WEBSITES SMALL BIZ WEBSITES CONTACT CHRIS PARKS (716) 249-4800

15-17-22-23-34

999

This is a message signifying completion of an important chapter in your life...time to get to work on your life's purpose!

19-24-25-29-36-38 #59

996

515

140

Challenger Hits MIDDAY

9-6-8 Ma Ruth Speaks (box) 8-4-3 Ozlla (straight) 5-0-0 Quick $ (box) 4-7-1 ZR, Ma Ruth (box) 1-7-5 Leo, Scorpio (box) 6-5-2 ZR (straight) Ma Ruth (box)

EVENING

5-0-7 ZR Number Book (box) 8-7-3 Luckie Duckie (box) 9-0-3 Luckie Duckie (box) 9-1-7 ZR, Libra (box) 2-3-5 ZR (straight) Lukie Duckie (box) LUCKIE DUCKIE

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

648*123*104

980-422-809-981-989-970-990-080800-515-996-390-196-102-581-752-319408-378-352-126-189-444-886-514- 332522-112-432-421-423-154-039-524

Madam Ozlla's FALL Predictions 140-143-133-392-320-965-843 5037-2156-3034-1342

WIN 4 2019 *1027 1590 *1928 5711 * 6502 1342 * 0907 3333*1971* 1931 *8938-1610-2001-6543

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 18,2019

Wednesday December 18 Back to Basics Outreach Ministries Reentry Mentoring Graduation Ceremony: 3-5p.m.

BETC, 77 Goodell St. RSVP at 716-854-1086.

Public Meeting Notice: Board of the Westminster Community Charter School, 12 Noon, The Buffalo Club, 388 Delaware Hustle for Health Urban Line Dancing Gloria Parks: 3242 Main St. 11am- 12pm. FREE for 55+ Call 716 832-1010 .

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

Urban League, BURA Fair Housing Forum: Urban League, 15 Genesee St. 6p.m.; (716)2502418 or bsmith@buffalourbanleague.org National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Family Support Group: 7 p.m., at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 4007 Main St., 716-226-6264 for more info.

Thursday December 19 Jefferson Avenue Block Club Meeting: God City Apartments, 175 Pershing Ave., 6 p.m.; (716)563-3136 for more info.

Thursday December 19

Monday December 30

EM Tea Coffee Cup Cafe & Hamlin Park, Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides & hot chocolae 5:30-7:30; 80 Oakgrove .

KWANZAA: 6-9:30 P.M. DR. MAULANA KARENGA TO SPEAK; East Community School, 820 Northampton

Sunday December 22

Tuesday December 31

BLACK EXPO HOLIDAY EDITION: 1-4 p.m. The Rose Bar & Grille, 199 Scott St. Vendors contact (716)495-4416 or (716)770-8005.

KWANZAA: 7-9 P.M. GUEST SPEAKER Professor Kaba Hiawatha Kamene, CAO Pratt Willert Center, 422 Pratt St.

Thursday December 26

FIRST NIGHT BUFFALO: A night of family fun, 5-10 p.m.

Buffealo Convention Center; carnival rides, live entertainment; tickets start @ $15 Age 2 and under free,

KWANZAA: 12 Noon Black Liberation Flag Raising; 7-9 p.m. Evening Program, BUILD Community School, 340 Fougeron St. Friday December 27 KWANZAA: Evening Program, BUILD Community School, 340 Fougeron St.

Wednesday January 1 KWANZAA: 12 NOON – 4 P.M., CAO Alphonso Rafi Green Center, 1423 Fillmore Ave.

Saturday December 28 KWANZAA: 11 A..M. – 4 P.M. CHILDREN’S KWANZAA, East Community School, 820 Northampton; Evening Program 7-9 P.M. Ujima Theatre, 429 Plymouth Ave.

Manna Culinary Group New Years Day GOSPEL JAZZ BRUNCH: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

683 Northland. Live music, great food. Tickets inside Manna @ Northland. For info visit www.mannaculinarygroup.com

Sunday December 29 KWANZAA: 6-9:30 p.m.

East Community School, 820 Northampton. see you at the events!

19

Thursday January 9 Open Buffalo Sankofa Celebration Fundraiser: 6 p.m.

- 8 p.m.Northland Workforce Training Center, 683 Northland Ave., Donation: $50 per person.

©2019 New York Lottery

PLEASE GIFT RESPONSIBLY.

You must be 18 years or older to purchase a lottery ticket.

Struggling with a gambling addiction? Call the HOPEline 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or text HOPENY (467369).* NYLResponsiblePlay.com *Standard text rates may apply.

20

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 18, 2019

PRATCHER

frpratcher@gmai I .com

FRANKLIN R. PRATCHER, ESQ 1133 Kensington Avenue Buffalo New York 14215 716) 838-4612 Office (716) 570-3885 Cell (716) 838-4828 Fax

ACCEPT APPLICA ING T FOR 4TH IONS – 7T GRADES H

THE GREATEST GIFT IS THE BELIEF IN OUR CHILDREN. Happy holidays from our Buffalo Collegiate family.

Now accepting application for the New Year!

BUFFALOCOLLEGIATE.ORG/APPLY