Challenger Community News December 2, 2021

MICHIGAN STREET AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE CORRIDOR'S SOULFUL CHRISTMAS DECEMBER 3 & 4 Page 10

December 2, 2021 | FREE | thechallengernews.com

When the Bennett High School Tigers Football Team Roars into the Carrier Dome at Syracuse University this Saturday to Play for the State Title, Regardless of the Outcome, They’ve Already Proven Themselves to be True Champions - Both On and Off the Field! GO TIGERS! Page 12

Tenants Fight To Remain In Their Homes! Page 3

PHOTO BY Ernie Thalhamer

Street Legacy Photos by Darvin Adams

GO TIGERS!

DA Files Charges Against Activist Betty Jean Grant Page 3

Historic Police Reform Comes to Rochester Page 2

A Message From Barack to India: ‘You Have Been An Inspiration’ Page 15

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INSIDE ROCHESTER

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2,2021

Mayor Warren, Rev. Stewart Sign Historic Agreement to Advance Police Reform Mayor Lovely A. Warren and the Rev. Lewis Stewart of United Christian Leadership Ministry have advanced the police reform goal outlined in the City’s response to the Governor’s Executive Order 203 to create Civilian Public Safety Interview Panel.

“We must create a Police Department that truly protects and serves our community because it has the empathy and perspective to do so,” said Mayor Warren. “Every officer has to be connected to the residents they serve and see their challenges, not through the lens of the badge, but through a lens of understanding. The Civilian Public Safety Interview Panel will go a long way toward helping us do that.”

The nine to twelve-member panel will interview new-hire candidates for the Rochester Police Department officers and provide a recommendation to the Chief of Police.

The City will begin taking applications for the Interview Panel in January. But to ensure the Panel’s credibility from Day One, the City has asked Rev. Stewart to sit on a three person committee to review the panelist applications with a member of the Rochester Police Department and the Department of Human Resource Management.

Mayor Warren and Rev. Stewart signed a Memorandum of Agreement that outlines the role of this committee. The memorandum also articulates the format and procedures of the Interview Panel. They will ask questions regarding the candidates:: • Attitudes on contemporary policing; • Life experiences; • Familiarity with and involvement within the Rochester Community; • And implicit biases to determine whether the applicant is fit to serve with ethics, integrity, and non-discriminatory and non-racist attitudes and behaviors.

Monroe County COVID Cases Skyrocket: 550 New Cases Reported Miriam Rivera Farmers Insurance

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The Monroe County Health Department reported 550 new COVID-19 cases on Thursday. It's the highest single-day total reported in the county since January 14th, according to state data.

The report prompted a joint statement from County Executive Adam Bello and Dr. Michael Mendoza, the county's Commissioner of Public Health, urging more residents to get vaccinated or to get booster shots if they have not already.

"As much as we would all like to see an end to this pandemic, today’s new caseload is a clear indication that COVID-19 is still very much a part of our lives," the pair said in their statement.

"As we know, an increasing caseload will translate into increasing hospitalizations in the coming weeks if we cannot get the virus under control.

Fortunately, we know how to do that."

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BILLS RECAPBY RADNEY & CHEEKS

Bills Defeat Injury Riddled Saints 31 - 6

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hat took so long for Bills Offensive Coordinator Brian Daboll to realize Matt Breida should be starting and using power sweeps along with getting him isolated on linebackers down field?

The Bills Special Teams dominated the Saints most of the game on coverages and stopped a fake punt attempt.

The big news was the knee injury to Tre Davis White late in the second quarter.

White’s foot seemed to get Matt Beida & Dawson Knox stuck in the turf and his right knee popped as he was in coverage. The Buffalo Bills have announced that White has a torn ACL and is out for the remainder of the season.

The Bills blew out an injury riddled Saints team, who were missing 14 starters due to injuries. I don’t understand why Isaiah McKenzie was inactive?

The Bills offense could be like a 1985 San Diego Chargers Air Coryell type unit being so explosive that you could not cover everybody. It’s painfully clear that Brian Daboll is not creative enough for the high-octane offense in his hands. His play calling continues to be at best simply and plain. If a play is successful, Daboll continues to call the same play instead of running various plays off of that successful one.

There should be play action off of jet sweeps, along with reverses or fake ones leading to some downfield pass plays by QB Josh Allen. Daboll is about to get Josh Allen injured by continuing to call his number on running plays. Josh must stop running with the ball unless it’s totally necessary. That’s what team running backs are for, with Matt Breida and Devin Singletary getting most of the touches.

Continued Page 16

Where Faith and Friendship Come Together.

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When you’re ready to plan your next event, the team at Visit Rochester will provide complimentary assistance every step of the way. When you meet in Rochester, NY, there is no limit to what you can do, and no reason to do it anywhere else.

For more information, go to visitrochester.com/meetings or contact Tim James at (585)279-8342 or timj@visitrochester.com

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2,2021

AREA BRIEFS Superintendent Cash to Host Community Town Hall Meeting “A Conversation with BPS Superintendent Dr. Kriner Cash” Town Hall Meeting will be held at East Community High School auditorium, 820 Northampton St., Thursday December 2 from 5:30 -7:30 p.m.

Masking, social distancing and temperature checks will be required to enter.

Convening of the Elders

Umoja has announced the Convening of the Elders 2021, on Saturday December 11 at 1423 Fillmore Avenue from 2-6 p.m. Samuel L. Radford will host the event. Among the elders listed: Baba Eng Karima Amin, Queen Halima, Paulette Woods, James Giles, L. Nathan Hare, Cariol Horne, Kim Beaty John Walker, Ras Jomo, Kamau Fields, Modell Gault and Dahveed Muhammad.

1619: Twenty Africans arrived in Jamestown, Virginia, aboard a Dutch ship. They were the first Blacks to be forcibly settled as slaves in the Colonies.

1641: Massachusetts was the first colony to legalize slavery by statue.

1663: The first documented attempt at a rebellion by slaves took place in Virginia.

1664: Maryland was the first state to try to discourage by law the marriage of White women to Black men.

1712: A slave insurrection occurred in New York City, resulting in the execution of 21 African Americans.

Tenants Fight to Remain in Their Homes!

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hile Governor Kathy Hochul recently extended New York State’s eviction moratorium until January15th, many landlords are using shady tactics to force tenants out against their will.

Such is the case at the Peace Bridge Apartments on Porter Avenue, where the new owners, along with the management company Power Play Partners, have given many tenants the minimum legal notice to leave their apartments.

Many of the residents are older, have disabilities, and receive rental assistance, which makes displacing them during an ongoing pandemic particularly cruel and harmful.

Michael Alsbrook and Michael Crosby.

Activists at Queen City Workers Center have been working closely with tenants to hold meetings where people share stories and discuss ways to resist eviction, such as tenants Michael Alsbrook and Michael Crosby.

Mr. Alsbrook and Mr. Crosby, 69 and 70 years old respectively, were born and raised in Buffalo and attended East High School together. Mr. Crosby has lived at Peace Bridge Apartments for five years. Mr. Alsbrook for 24.

Mr. Alsbrook was one of the tenants who received a 90 day notice. He was told by the new management that they’d normally only give him a month, but “because [he] was such an excellent tenant they’d give [him] three” - this in spite of the fact that residents who have lived in a unit for longer than two years are legally entitled to 90 days notice of eviction.

According to local housing attorney Adam Bojak, some other tenants have been given less than the legally required notice. Alsbrook, a veteran and former employee of the federal government for over 40 years says, “these are supposed to be the best years of my life, but now I feel like I’m being persecuted for doing the right thing.”

“They don’t consider us as human beings, that’s what it boils down to.”

"Tenants in Buffalo have little to no rights" stated John Washington, Organizer and Advocate for Homes Guarantee. "Housing Court is an eviction mill that empowers landlords to extort and exploit the most vulnerable tenants. It is time for Good Cause Eviction and a Tenant Bill of Rights that gives tenants a chance for justice."

Both Crosby and Alsbrook reported having experienced severe stress over their situation, along with their families, who have been assisting them in finding a new place to live. Mr. Alsbrook says his daughters, granddaughters, and ex-wife expressed concern over his lack of sleep and high stress -“And if she’s [his ex-wife] upset, you know it’s bad!”

Both said they’ve had difficulty finding anything nearby. According to Mr. Alsbrook “they want to gentrify this whole area... apartments are going from $900 to $2500 a month. Who can afford that?”. " I think it’s inhumane, I think everyone should have the right to have affordable housing.”

We asked Mr. Crosby and Mr. Alsbrook if they had any parting remarks.

“I would say that the landlord should have been more concerned when he took over the building as to the policies he was presenting to people," said Mr. Crosby. He should have been more concerned ...and not just all of a sudden telling people to leave” “This may not be affecting you (personally) now, but trust me, it may come sooner than you think," warned Alsbrook. "This is a nationwide mission here… it would probably behoove you to stand with us, because you may need us to stand with you further down the road.”

If you are a tenant facing issues with your housing or in your workplace, or if you would like to support Mr. Alsbrook and Mr. Crosby and their fellow tenants, please contact the Queen City Workers Center, 716-259-1970 or qcworkerscenter@gmail.com .

Council Returns to Virtual Meetings Due to Rise in Covid Cases Due to a rise in Covid cases, the Buffalo Common Council has announced that it will be holding all of its meetings virtually until health officials say it is safe. Here’s what you need to know: •Meetings can be seen live on the Council’s Facebook page, facebook. com/ BFLOCC. •Sessions also can be viewed on the city website at buffalony.gov, the Council’s web portal at buffalony.gov/ meetings, the City of Buffalo Common Council YouTube page and public access television for on-demand viewing. •For the agendas for Council meetings, go to buffalony. gov/meetings. If you want to at a Council committee meeting call 716-851-5105 or email councilstaff@ buffalony.gov .

DA Files Charges Against Activist Betty Grant: Court Date Set for Monday December 6

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he Erie County District Attorney’s Office has filed charges against 73-year-old Betty Jean Grant of Buffalo.

Mrs. Grant was given an appearance ticket on one count of a misdemeanor in relation to election law and one count of Harassment in the Second Degree (violation).

Her court date has been set for Monday, December 6 at 9:30 a.m. in Buffalo City Court, Part Two at 50 Delaware Avenue. She is being represented by attorney James A.W. McLeod.

Letters of support on Mrs. Grant’s behalf are welcome and can be emailed to him at : JudgeJim148@ gmail.com Grant, who has advocated on behalf of Buffalo’s Black community for over four decades, is Betty Jean Grant accused of "technically" entering “an occupied voting booth,” and observing the preparation of another person’s ballot while inside a polling place at the Delavan Grider Community Center on East Delavan Avenue during early voting on October 23 . She is also accused of recording the incident and streaming it live on Facebook Live.

This year’s mayoral election was one of this city’s worst, marked by unprecedented smear tactics, lies and fear mongering directed at Democratic Primary winner India Walton, whom Mrs. Grant supported.

The person Mrs. Grant is being accused of allegedly “harassing” was Mrs. Grant’s neighbor. The other person involved was a Byron Brown supporter inside the polling place “helping” two other women who allegedly didn’t know how to use the rubber stamp to write in Brown’s name.

Grant’s neighbor was asked if she needed help voting as well. At that point Grant protested the intervention.

According to the DA’s office, Mrs. Grant’ neighbor whose ballot was being prepared, urged prosecutors to charge Mrs. Grant. The DA’s office has stated that there will be no charges filed against any other person involved in the alleged incident.

In an unrelated incident the Erie County Board of Elections dismissed a team of poll workers after receiving an allegation of a ballot that was pre-stamped for Mayor Brown.

No one was legally charged.

Betty Jean Grant is one of the few people left in this community who will dare speak truth to power. The founder of We Are Women Warriors, she holds a Master’s Degree from UB and is a regular columnist for The Challenger and The Criterion newspapers. A businesswoman, she is a former teacher, Chairperson of the Erie County Legislator, University District Councilwoman, Board of Education member, talk show host and Board of Elections worker.

Long before the East Side even got a testing site for COVID-19 Betty Jean was in the forefront of providing free masks and sanitizer to the community throughout the pandemic; riding for hours in her car with a bullhorn on the roof, sounding the alarm and educating a community that had initially, all but been ignored.

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HEALTH MATTERS

On My Mind...

Save the Children

“Let's...let's save all the children, (Save the babies, save the babies!)

(And if you want to love, you got to....save the babies) (Oh you've got the feeling, you've got the feeling) (You will save the babies, all of the Children)” Marvin Gaye, Save The Children (1971)

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e are in the midst of an epidemic of epic proportions. The effects of COVID-19 have not only ravaged our nation, not to mention the entire world, but we have a generation of youth that is facing challenges that no one saw coming.

Even before the pandemic, mental health issues among American youth were escalating. A report published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, found that suicides rose from 2003 to 2017 among Black youth of all ages and that the biggest increases occurred among teens aged 15 to 17.

There are a wide range of issues that are considered

to be “risk factors” which affect the emotional health of our children. Everything from disparities in healthcare, economics, as well as environmental factors. There is also the increasing influence of social media, which while still relatively new in the grand scheme of things, is having an obvious detrimental effect on the lives of youth in our country, regardless of ethnicity.

When COVID-19 struck, I and many others in the world of behavioral health, forecasted a “tsunami” of mental health issues amongst our youth stemming from the collective trauma that they’ve experienced primarily related to the social isolation caused by the lockdown we went through that lasted for what seemed like forever.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2,2021

It’s for all these reasons, and more, that we need to support our youth through the most important years of their lives. Considering the importance of brain development, the ages from birth to 25 are critical. It is during these years, especially early on, that children are provided with a sense of security and support. This may seem like a “pie in the sky’ notion, but I believe that with the appropriate interventions, a child can mature in an appropriate manner.

For some youth, this intervention may be in the form of formal mental health treatment, or it can be in other community-based programs that focus on mentoring.

There are several local organizations that are committed to this kind of work, including the Boys and Girls Club of Buffalo, Compeer Buffalo, and the Mental Health Advocates of WNY, among others. In addition, Breaking Barriers is dedicated to uplifting the next generation of young African American men through a variety of empowering initiatives.

Each one of these organizations is in need of support, whether it be through volun-

Change Lives, Starting With Your Own

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teering or financial support.

If more people were to offer assistance to these agencies, our future would be much brighter and we can save the children.

Karl Shallowhorn is the Director of Youth Programs for the Mental Health Advocates of WNY and President of Shallowhorn Consulting, LLC. He is also the host of Mental Health Verses, which can be found on YouTube. Karl was a featured speaker at TedX Buffalo where his topic was on African American men and mental health. To contact Karl, you can contact him at karl@shallowhorncon-

ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE! Finishing up a hot thanksgiving dinner and groceries at a giveaway at Refuge Temple sponsored

by APS Foreclosure, is Brent Rollins (Dorie Miller Gun and Rifle Club), Amanda Brook-Woody( C& R), Timothy Ivy (MVP), Lion Blyden (C&R), Bro. Bill Thomas (APS Foreclosure) and Oswaldo Mestrese (City Hall). Over 600 hot meals were given away with groceries! Street Legacy Photos by Darvin Adams

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2,2021

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FAITH & FAMILY

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2,2021

Black Americans in the South More Likely Than Other Black Americans to Pray Daily

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orship habits among Black Christians in the South, where African-American churches date back to the 1770s, have long differed from practices of Black Americans in other parts of the United States.

Today, there are few regional differences among Black Americans when it comes to worship styles, but Black Southerners differ somewhat from other Black Americans – especially Northeasterners and Westerners – in other ways when it comes to religion, according to a recent Pew Research Center report based on a survey of 8,660 Black U.S. adults.

For example, Black Southerners are more likely than Black Americans living elsewhere to be part of a Black congregation.

The religious experience of Black Southerners stands out in other ways, too.

Protestantism, which is the most common faith among Black Americans in all four regions of the country, is most prevalent among Black Americans in the South (72 percent).

That compares with 65 percent of Black adults in the Mid-

west, 58 percent in the West and 54 percent in the Northeast.

The Northeast has relatively high shares of Black Catholics and adherents of non-Christian religions compared with the South; 11 percent of Black Northeasterners are Catholic, compared with 5 percent of Black Southerners.

A similar pattern can be seen when looking at religious service attendance and frequency of prayer. More than a third of Black Southerners (37 percent) say they attend worship services at least once a week, compared with roughly three-in-ten Black adults in the Midwest (31 percent) and about a quarter in the West (26 percent) and Northeast (25 percent).

About seven-in-ten Black Southerners (69 percent) say they pray daily, compared with six-in-ten in the Midwest and just over half in the Northeast (54 percent) and West (51 percent) and when it comes to the importance of religion, U.S. adults overall in the South are more likely than Black people in other regions to say the Bible is the literal Word of God. Source: Pew Research Center.

Emmanuel Temple Holiday Musical!

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

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

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2,2021

Familiar Real Estate Terms And Definitions PART 1

KICKING OFF THE HOLIDAYS WITH BLESSINGS! Pastor Newkirk (above) and GYC Ministries handed out over 800 turkeys throughout the holidays to the community as part of their Holiday kickoff! Street Legacy Photos by Darvin Adams

"Happy Holidays" Are Here! Remember to share some time for "Thankfulness" and enjoy the "Journey."

Here are some familiar - and helpful -real estate terms and definitions: 1. Defining Monthly Debt: Automobile loan payments, college, education, repairs, mortgage, medical expenses, life/auto insurance,support funds (children and alimony) 2. Household Income: Disposable income for all members in the household, income before taxes/deductions, investment plans, Social Security, Permanent Disability,Retirement and long-term verifiable funds from all sources of income.

3. Equity: Ownership of a property where the "market value" is determined considering the balance owed on a mortgage and/ or private recorded liens.

Also, applies to a "home equity" with a balance as well.

4. Appraisal/Value: Prepared by a Licensed Appraiser. The appraisal value is determined by an analysis of recently closed comparable homes in the area of similar size, style and current closing dates. The goal is to have the analysis agree with the contract sales price.

5. Mortgage: Financing from Banks, Credit unions and other financial businesses that are able to lend. The property is the collateral, with a recorded lien, whereas the purchaser has to make timely payments 6. Mortgage Insurance: This is usually for real estate loans with an equity of less than 20% to be financed. This is included in the monthly mortgage payment. The insurance protects the lender. The value of having the insurance is, in the event the "new" owner defaults on the loan, the insurance will be used by the lender to discharge a portion of the remaining balance.

7. Homeowners Insurance: Covers the property and liability for any damages, natural occurrences and accidents. The purchaser must submit the policy before the closing. Homeowners insurance is required by the lender/bank.

8. Loan Types/Products: Repayment terms range from 1030 years for mortgages.

Fixed interest rates Adjustable interest rates Conventional ~ standard product FHA - Federal Housing Administration - Government VA - Veterans Administration - U.S. Dept. of Government Affairs Continued Next Week

FREE LEGAL CLINIC The Western New York Law Center’s consumer debt defense legal clinic (CLARO) will be resuming in-person sessions every Tuesday evening beginning December 7th from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. at the Frank E. Merriweather Jr. Library, 1324 Jefferson Avenue, with no appointment needed.

The CLARO Project provides legal advice related to consumer issues and assists consumer debtors with preparing legal papers to represent themselves in court to avoid unfair default judgments.

If you have any questions please call 716-828-8432.

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2,2021

See for yourself.

Villa is a place where exploration and continual discovery is prized. Because going to college isn’t about having it all figured out — it’s about inventing who you’re going to become.

Visit Villa and learn more about the 99% of students who receive financial aid. Get more information about our new programs in Community Health and Motion Design, and get involved in our athletics program.

SCHEDULE A PERSONAL TOUR OF CAMPUS Sign up at Visit.Villa.edu Email: admissions@villa.edu Call/text: 716.462.5037 240 Pine Ridge Road | Buffalo, NY 14225 VILLA.EDU

UNIQUE! Pretty 6-yearold Unique Todd stole the show when she sang "That's Why God Loves You" during one of Rehoboth House of Prayer's outdoor crusades and free giveaways in the lot next door to Mandella Market in October. The event, which featured prayer, testimony and The Word of God, was hosted by Rehoboth Pastors Andrae & Sharifah Kamoche. Unique attended the event with her mom Tishawn Todd. Challenger Photo

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

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2,2021

Partnering to help create opportunities Last year, Bank of America committed $1.25 billion over five years to advance racial equality and economic opportunity. To date, we’ve directly funded or invested one-third of this amount on top of long-standing efforts to make an impact in our communities and address society’s greatest challenges.

Here are some of the ways we’re working to make a difference: • Investing $300 million in 100 minority-owned and minority-led equity funds for diverse entrepreneurs and small business owners, helping them create more jobs, financial stability and growth.

• Investing $36 million in 21 Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs) and Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) banks that support minority-owned businesses, building pathways to economic vitality in our local markets. This is in addition to approximately $100 million in deposits to MDIs and our existing CDFI portfolio of more than $2 billion.

• Providing funding and support through innovative programs and partnerships with community colleges, universities and nonprofits that offer training and credentialing programs connecting more people to high-wage, in-demand careers.

We’re doing this work in collaboration with community partners, business leaders, experts and academics across the public and private sectors to ensure that our investments are directed where they’re needed most. Together, we can help drive sustainable progress in Buffalo.

What would you like the power to do? ®

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Learn more at bankofamerica.com/buffalo

Bank of America, N.A. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender

© 2021 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

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Entertainment

Damon Wayans Jr. will be at Helium Comedy Club Damon Wayans Jr. comes from a long line of funny folks. Son of stand-up funny man, actor producer writer Damon Wayans, Damon Jr. is following in his footsteps and paving his own path in comedy. He is widely known for his character Coach on “New Girl” and as the character of Brad Williams in the ABC sitcom “Happy Endings,” for which he was nominated for the Critics’ Choice Award for Best Supporting Actor. He has been on tour selling out all over the country in theaters and casinos.

Showtimes at the Helium: Thursday Dec 2, 8pm,Friday Dec. 3, and Saturday Dec. 4 @7:30 m and 10pm, and Sunday December 5 at 7pm Call the club for detailps at 716.853.1211.

Earth Wind & Fire Show Rescheduled

The Earth Wind & Fire concert has been rescheduled for July 31, 2022, at 8pm at the Artpark Amphitheater 450 S. 4th street in Lewiston. Tickets are currently on sale at ticketmaster.com Adult SIPn'SLAY Tea Party at Antonio's Banquet Hall and Conference Center 7708 Niagara Falls Blvd. Reaching out to woman on topics of concern and also a day of relaxation. Info and tickets call 716 907-2219.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2,2021

A Soulful Christmas Inside the Michigan Street Heritage Corridor December 3 & 4 December 3 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM WUFO Toy Giveaway 143 Broadway Food Drive for First Fruits Food Pantry & Clothing Closet at Lincoln Memorial United Methodist Christmas Cookies Decorating Stations Drop in Art Activities 7:00 PM - Christmas Tree Lighting outside the Michigan Street Baptist Church December 4 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Inaugural Horse Drawn Wagon ride with Kente Claus Christmas Market Food Drive for First Fruits Food Pantry & Clothing Closet at Lincoln Memorial United Methodist Christmas Cookies Decorating Stations Drop In Art Activities 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM Public Horse Drawn Wagon Rides Storytelling by Tradition Keepers: Black Storytellers of Western New York & Kente Claus Story Book.

Throughout the day there will be performances by a band from the Colored Musicians Club and local school choirs and theatre groups. .

For more info about the celebration visit michiganstreetbuffalo. org/christmas-in-the-corridor or contact the Program Manager at

aclark@michiganstreetbuffalo.org

612 Northland Avenue Buffalo, New York October 16, 2021–January 16, 2022

It’s Party Time With Foxie Brown and Men of Power!

It’s party time with Buffalo’s own Foxie Brown and Men of Power back by popular demand on Saturday, December 4 from 12 noon-3 p.m. at the Broadway Market, 999 Broadway St. Enjoy music, singing old school, new school, line dancing and more. FREE!

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2,2021

A D O C U M E N TA R Y A B O U T B U F FA L O’ S R E S U R G E N C E

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D.A.D.S. HONOR YOUTH: Pictured above are scenes from the D.A.D.S Hon-

orary Youth Breakfast and 3 on 3 Basketball Turkey Jam held last Saturday at Community School 53. The well attended program featured guest speaker Attorney and author John Elmore. Also in attendance and addressing the youth was Mayor Byron Brown, Douglas Hearon of Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Bridgette Gillespie, Omar Overstreet of Key Bank and Brian Pawloski, Head of Buffalo Collegiate Charter School. Among the youth awardees: David Douglas, Akeyle Furbert, Cyrus Milan and Oliver “Big O” Ngarukiyintwari. Jason Love was also honored. “Mama” Charlene Miller, representing Winslow Avenue Block Club 3 was surprised with the “Key to The Hood” Award. The morning’s event was highlighted by testimonials from mothers and fathers who accompanied their children and spoke proudly about their accomplishments. The event was hosted by D.A.D.S. (Dads Anointed Delivering Sons) president and CEO Dwayne Ferguson. D.A.D.S runs a successful summer program that fosters fathering through basketball as well as ministry, mentoring and tutoring year round. Go DADS! STREET LEGACY PHOTOS BY DARVIN ADAMS

New Black Wall Street Market Opens In Georgia The New Black Wall Street Market, housed in a 125,000 foot former Target store, is the home to a Black-owned shopping venue with over 100 Black and women-owned businesses in Stonecrest, Georgia. As an extension of the Allen Entrepreneurial Institute, the New Black Wall Street Market shares its mission: to increase the size and number of minority and women-owned businesses throughout the United States and Globally. The grand opening was held November 26. Stonecrest, located in DeKalb County, is 15 miles from Atlanta. For more information on the New Black Wall Street, visit newblackwallsteetmarket.com

Learn more at ForTheLoveOfBuffalo.org

“Buffalo is open for business but it’s not the same old business that existed here.”

- Douglas Jemal

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rue grit and awesome talent.

That best describes Head Coach Steve McDuffie’s winning Bennett Tigers.

It’s been an historic season for these bright young athletes, who have prevailed against some pretty challenging odds.

Recently during the state tournament, nine players and two coaches on the McQuaid Jesuit team which they were scheduled to play, tested positive for COVID. It was expected that they would have to forfeit the game against Bennett - just as Bennett had to do in a similar situation last year when only one of its players tested positive. The forfeit would have allowed the Tigers to automatically advance to the Class AA state championships. But McQuaid went to court - and was granted a temporary restraining order ultimately allowing them to play anyway.

Community leaders rose to the occasion decrying not only the double standard and what many saw as “white privilege” - but most importantly the issue of safety for the Bennett team - despite claims that only McQuaid players who tested negative for five days before the game would be allowed to play.

The game was postponed and finally took place last Tuesday night at Williamsville South after being rescheduled from its original Nov. 20 date.

Bennett prevailed in the end, defeating McQuaid 26-14 in a sweet win to earn a spot

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2,2021

in the New York State Public High School Athletic Association semifinals for the first time.

This past Saturday (Nov. 27), The Tigers, with only four days rest after playing McQuaid (Coach McDuffie was unsuccessful at getting a one day postponement so his team would have at least 5 days rest- their opponent had 7!) - hit the field once again - this time crushing Cicero-North Syracuse 38-0 -earning them the opportunity to play for the coveted state title this Saturday, Dec. 4 where they will face Section 1 champion Carmel.

Putting all the challenges behind them, and their victories in front, the Tigers are poised to become the first Section VI team since Jamestown in 2014 to win a championship in the state’s highest classification.

And how does the team feel going into this historic championship game?

Dominick Allen, Senior Running Back, Corner Back: “It feels good to go to play in the state championship. I’m a little nervous because it’s my first time being here but I’m gonna come out ready to play!”

Xzavier Goodman, Junior Center, OL & LB: “It feels good to be here with my friends and it shows all the hard work we’ve been through, with early mornings and late nights, is paying off.”

Edgar Key III Senior Full Back : “This is amazing to be headed to the state championship and its important for me because it’s my first and my last. There’s no coming back next year for me so I’m going all out.”

Rashard Perry Junior D Tackle: “ I’m proud to be here and hopefully we will pull off the win. I’m doing this for all my seniors . Our group is like 100% and we have a lot of older guys on the team so we want to make their last year a bang."

Jayden Lewis Junior, Outside Linebacker/Receiver: “This is a good opportunity and I’m ready to play. I have a message to future players: stay focused, stick with your team and your coaches and you will be good!”

Head Coach McDuffie has a seasoned group of coaches who assist with this outstanding team that include: Khalil Cottman, Arthur Jordan, Anthony Scott, William Blackford, Marty Trisdale, Bob O’Conner, Djuan Todd, Jermaine Clemmons and Aaron Young.

After the championship a lot of the young men will be going off to college, McDuffie said.

"We’ve had over 20 colleges in to see the kids, and we have been successfully graduating 98% of these student athletes and over 89% go play football somewhere."

Former student Kahlil Summerville has had professional tryouts, and his own son Isaiah McDuffie went through the program and is currently playing for the Green Bay Packers.

"We are very excited and I’m very proud of these kids," McDuffie commented reflecting on the season. " They have put in a lot of hard work and their sacrifices and dedication have paid great dividends!

"This is not only a win for the Buffalo Public Schools, he concluded, " but a win for the community as a whole!" -Staff Reporter

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2,2021

They’re rebuilding Buffalo.

Thurman Thomas will always be known as a hall of fame running back. Now the Thomas family is building on their legacy: being good people who love their community. Through their construction company, 34 Group, Thurman and Patti Thomas are supporting and developing the city we all know and love – and they’re inspiring others to do the same.

Because they know that together, we make a mark.

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13

14 Crystal Middleton Named City’s Director of Planning and Zoning at Office of Strategic Planning

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rystal Middleton has been named Director of Planning and Zoning at the City of Buffalo Office of Strategic Planning. A graduate of Virginia State University with a degree in Mass Communication she holds a Masters Degree in City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning from the University at Buffalo.

Ms. Middleton, a former Microsoft Product Advisor, started her career in City Hall as an Crystal Middleton intern with the Buffalo Renewal Agency. She also served as a General Planner, Senior Planner, and Acting Director with the Agency before being named to her current position as Director.

“I’m a planner with a focus on enhancing urban living in the City of Buffalo. In this role I perform staff reviews for the City’s Planning and Zoning Boards, I support community development projects that take place throughout the city, specifically on the East Side, amongst a host of other related responsibilities.,” states Ms. Middleton.

“As a product of the East side, I am truly passionate about the rebirth of the City of Buffalo as I aim to work with others to enhance our communities, economy and quality of life for city residents. “ Ms. Middleton, who currently oversees a staff of seven planners (two more are expected to be added) was featured in the most recent issue of Buffalo Business First. In that article she credited a visit to Ghana after graduating from Virginia State , with ultimately leading her to enrolling at UB’s School of Architecture and Planning.

A visionary, she was also praised in the Business First report by the Office of Strategic Planning executive director Brendan Mehaffy for her “energy, enthusiasm and professionalism.”

Developing single-family homes in the Masten Park Neighborhood is one of her many goals.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2,2021

Quote of the Week “We don’t have to argue with anybody. We don’t have to curse or go around acting bad with our words. We don’t need any bricks and bottles. We don’t need any Molotov cocktails…We just need to go around to these stores, and to these massive industries in our county and say, ‘God sent us by here to say to you that you’re not treating his children right.

Now if you are not prepared to do that, we do have an agenda that we must follow.

And our agenda calls for withdrawing economic support from you.”

-Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (Delivered in April 3, 1968 a day before he was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee)

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2,2021

NATIONAL Malcolm X daughter, Malikah Shabazz, Found dead in NY Malikah Shabazz, the daughter of c u l t u r a l Malikah Malcolm X and human rights icon Malcolm X, was found dead inside her Brooklyn home on Monday, November 22. Authorities said they found Shabazz, 56, unconscious and unresponsive inside her home on East 28th Street in the Midwood section of the borough just before 4:30 p.m. The sad news comes only days after investigators and a New York judge cleared the men convicted in the 1965 assassination of Malcolm X at the Audubon Ballroom in Manhattan.

Former President Barack Obama Pens Personal Note of Encouragement to India Walton

I

ndia Walton’s campaign for Mayor shook up this city and made headlines around the country because of its historic nature. From interviews in publications such as The New York Times, the Washington Post, and the New Yorker Magazine and President Obama, Ms. Walton others to national networks and endorsements from some of the nation’s most powerful political figures, India was the “woman of the hour.”

When her campaign kicked off early voting with a rally in downtown Buffalo, over 1,000 people crowded into the Town Ballroom. It was electrical and magical.

Even after the election was over, and her opponent declared victory, the praise for India continued to come in.

Most recently, and perhaps most significantly, was a hand written note from former President Barack Obama, which surely gave her reason to smile. And to stay encouraged.

President Obama congratulated India on a job well done, and assured her that although the results of the election may have been disappointing to her, that she achieved an even greater victory/ goal - that of “inspiring a lot of people.” “ I hope you stay active in trying to make a difference,” Obama wrote. “Good Luck!”

15

How Many Pastors Can We Have?

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By Julianne Malveaux, NNPA Newswire Contributor

ev. Jesse Jackson and Rev. Al Sharpton did the right thing by attending the Amaud Arbery trial. They demonstrate the solidarity that the Black community has with each other when one of us is lynched. Lynching has reverberations. Each of us, every Black person, is repulsed and dismayed when we learn that armed White men, using the pretense of “citizen’s arrest,” can kill any of us. What is a citizen’s arrest, anyway? Is it simply a license to kill?

Kevin Gough, the attorney “defending” William “Roddie” Bryant, the man who both took the video of the massacre and participated in it, asked the judge, each day, to bar Rev Jesse Jackson from the courtroom. How absurd! He said Rev. Jackson’s presence might influence the nearly all-White jury, and I suspect his objections might lay the groundwork for an appeal since the devilish White men were found guilty of murder.

Gough’s racism and ignorance was a constant presence in this trial. He said he didn’t want more Black pastors in the courtroom after Rev. Sharpton sat with the Arbery family. He asked the stupid question, “How many pastors does the Arbery family have.” He had the nerve, throughout the jury’s hearing, to ask if Georgia Senator Raphael Warnock, also a pastor, will be next in the courtroom.

What Gough does not understand are the many ways that racism connects Black people. In the book Lynching and Spectacle (University of North Carolina Press, 2009), Amy Louise Wood writes, “The news of lynching shook (the author Richard Wright) to his core. Despite, or even because of, its relative rarity, lynching held a singular psychological force, generating a level of fear and horror that overwhelmed all other forms of violence. Even one lynching reverberated, traveling with sinister force, down city streets, and through rural farms, across roads and rivers.”

Any of us could be followed and shot on any given day. We have no shield. We can be unarmed and running. In bed and sleeping (ask Breonna Taylor), or simply walking down the street. And White folks see a threat because racism is baked in the cake we call America. When we watch the massacre of Amaud Arbery, we see ourselves, our sons, our daughters, our mothers. That connects us. That’s why more than one hundred pastors rallied with Rev. Sharpton outside the Brunswick courthouse in solidarity. I wanted Revs. Jackson, Sharpton, William Barber, Freddy Haynes, and so many others rally at every massacre. 'Cause it’s personal. How dare this high-handed man, the "offense" attorney, question anybody’s religion, pastoral relationships, community connections, or anything else?

Gough will go down in the racist’s hall of fame, but he is not the only one. All these “stand your ground” laws are an absurd attempt to allow White people to shoot Black people with impunity.

Southern state legislatures empower White people to embrace their racism with firearms, whether they are police officers or ordinary citizens. It is frightening to think that we live in a world where White fear, real or imagined, justifies a Black massacre.

On the witness stand, one of the murderers admitted that Arnaud did not say a word to him, did not do a darn thing but try to get away from him. He shot him anyway! So, some random White person follows a Black man and attacks him because he is “scared.” He should have kept his scared self in his house and called the police. But no, he was a White man with privilege, power, and a weapon. Why should he call law enforcement when he could enforce the law himself?

So how many pastors did the Arbery family have? As many as they wanted. Black folks around the nation and the world were praying for a just result in this trial. We were praying for a judicial ruling that the massacre of Black people is unacceptable. We were praying for an examination of this nonsense called “citizen’s arrest.” And we were praying for our leaders, our pastors, our brothers to keep the faith and keep representing.

Kevin Gough does not “get” the Black community, and he doesn’t have to. But what he needs to know, when he thundered about Black pastors, is that all of us, Black people, are connected.

How many pastors do I have? As many as will claim me. Hundreds of Black pastors claimed the Arbery family because they related to their pain. Whether you are a pastor or not, you should claim them, too.

(Ed Note: The nearly all-White jury last week in Georgia found all three White men charged in the killing last year of Ahmaud Arbery, a 25-year-old Black man, guilty of murder.

Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an economist, author, and dean of the College of Ethnic Studies at Cal State LA. juliannemalveaux.com

16

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2,2021

LEGAL NOTICE Bid

Applications Available for East Side 2022 Community-Based Real Estate Development Training

Program Graduates Will Be Invited to Apply for Project Funding from Empire State Development Buffalo, NY -- Applications are now being accepted for the 2022 Community-Based Real Estate Development Training program, which teaches East Side building owners and community members how to plan for and implement a commercial real estate development project. The program is designed to build a community of citizen developers on the East Side of Buffalo by empowering community members with the skills and knowledge to successfully complete a project. It is part of New York State’s $65 million East Side Corridor Economic Development Fund and funded in collaboration with private and philanthropic organizations who created a pooled, $8 million East Side Collaborative Fund to support capacity building and to develop and implement programs like this. This is the third cohort of the successful program which began in 2019.

Applications for the Community-Based Real Estate Development Training Program are due Wednesday, December 8, 2021 by 5 p.m. and are available on the East Side Avenues website at www.eastsideavenues.org/ CBREDT-2022. There is no cost to apply or participate in the program. Students will be selected from the pool of applicants. Upon acceptance, there is a one-time, nonrefundable $100 registration fee.

BILLS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

Dawson Knox continues to impress with his suddenly sure hands and breaking Bills all-time tight end touchdown record with his sixth and seventh of the year. It’s hard to imagine Buffalo Bills tight ends having only six touchdowns in the history of the team. Allen said of the Knox play, “He continues to get better when the ball is in the air, especially just making plays on the ball. He’s going to be bigger than most DB’s and faster than most linebackers. He’s got unreal athleticism and he’s putting it all together now.”

Bills Defensive Coordinator Leslie Frazier must continue to Coach up his unit especially without all pro shutdown cornerback Tre Davis White lost for rest of season. I do think Dane Jackson can do a good job in the position due to the fact he played in the same system at University of Pittsburgh. The Bills defense will be tested by New England Patriots running game and rookie QB Mac Jones. The Bills must make plays at the line of scrimmage and can’t afford to be tackling Patriots running back Damien Green and company down field.

It’s going to be a good Monday Night football game at High Mark Stadium. I see the Bills barely winning this nail biter with our defense making key stops and forcing rookie Patriots QB Mac Jones into bad reads resulting in turnovers.

Prediction: The Bills will win 31-28. Enjoy the game!

Follow me on FACEBOOK, Instrgram, TWITTER: georgeradney@georgeradman, LIVE STREAMING: Pro Talk Plus the Winners Edge Noon EST, 9am PST, (Catch the show throughout the weekend), RADIO: Pro Talk Plus, WLGZ The Beat 105.5 FM every Saturday morning 7AM – 8AM, Every Sunday morning 8AM – 9AM What’s going on The Experience on WHTK Fox Sports 1280 AM in Rochester, NY

Advertisement for Bids November 23, 2021 Lehigh Valley Section House: Exterior Asbestos Abatement Village of Williamsville Williamsville, New York NOTICE OF SOLICITATION OF SPECIALTY CONTRACTORS FOR LEHIGH VALLEY SECTION HOUSE: EXTERIOR ASBESTOS ABATEMENT, 150 MILTONSTREET, WILLIAMSVILLE, NY PROPERTY OF VILLAGE OF WILLIAMSVILLE, 5565 MAIN STREET, WILLIAMSVILLE, NEW YORK Sealed bids for the Lehigh Valley Section House: Exterior Asbestos Abatement project will be received until 2:00 pm, Wednesday, December 8, 2021 at Williamsville Village Hall (Attn: Ben Vilonen), where they will be opened and read. Each bid must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the Bidding and Contract Documents and must be accompanied by references of similar projects and a bid security in the form of a Certified Check, Bid Bond or Bank Check in the amount of 5 percent of the bid amount.

Funding for this project comes through a Community Development Block Grant from the Federal Housing and Urban Development Agency (HUD) as administered by the NYS Office of Community Renewal (OCR). The United States Federal government is committed to providing Minority and Women Owned Business (MWBE) equal opportunity to participate in government contracts. The successful bidder may be required to furnish reports showing the participation of various business enterprises of subcontractors and suppliers on the contract.

•Effective Tuesday, November 23, 2021, Bid Documents may be obtained at Avalon Document Services, 40 LaRiviere Dr., Suite 150, Buffalo, New York 14202, phone number (716) 995-7777. Plans and specifications can be viewed on the Avalon Buffalo Planroom at http://avalonbuffplanroom.com and can be purchased digitally or in hard copy from that website.

•A Pre-Bid Walkthrough will be held Wednesday, December 1, 2021 at 10:00am. Interested contractors should meet at the parking area behind the Lehigh Valley Section House at 150 Milton Street. Attendance at the walkthrough is not mandatory but is strongly encouraged to fully understand the work scope.

•If you have questions, please contact LaLuce Mitchell at Flynn Battaglia Architects (716) 854-2424.

Email (lmitchell@flynnbattaglia. com) inquiries are also acceptable.

Questions must be received no later than 5:00pm on Friday, December 3, 2021.

•All Addenda, if any, will be sent via email no later than Monday, December 6, 2021. Please provide email contact information when you purchase drawings.

The Village of Williamsville has been and will continue to be an equal opportunity organization.

All qualified Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) suppliers, contractors and/or businesses will be afforded equal opportunity without discrimination because of race, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual preference or Veterans status.

LEGAL BID Scrufari Construction Co. seeking M/WBE/SDVOB subcontractors to quote Construct Building Addition Maintenance Headquarters, Region 5 Bid Due: Mon., Dec. 13, 2021 We are an EEO employer – 716-282-1225

The New York State Police Hiring The NYS Police Department is hiring. Starting salary $58,443 - $82,677 after one year. Full benefits and retirement. Minimum test requirements: US citizen 20 years old, High School diploma/GED. Go to Joiinstatepolicie.ny.gov LEGAL BID COUNTY OF ERIE ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Erie County Family Court Roof Replacement PROJECT NO. 2021-820-01 Sealed bids for: General Construction 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 Monday, December 20, 2021 at which time they will be opened and read aloud. MBE/WBE, Apprenticeship program, and Local and Disadvantaged Workforce requirements may apply to this project. Additional information must be found at: www. erie.gov/dpw .

LEGAL BID PUBLIC NOTICE REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL YOUTH SERVICES under THE GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION INITIATIVE (RFP #2) The Buffalo & Erie County Workforce Investment Board, Inc. is accepting proposals for services to youth to foster employment and prevent gun violence in the local workforce area. A signed and electronically submitted proposal with the subject clause RFP for GVP Initiative must be received at info@becwib.org no later than 2:00 PM on Tuesday, December 21, 2021 in order to be considered. Those interested in submitting a proposal may download the RFP at www.workforcebuffalo.org.

LEGAL BID COUNTY OF ERIE ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Rath Building Parking Level Sprinkler System Replacement PROJECT NO. 2019-816-01 Sealed bids for Fire Protection 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 Tuesday, December 21, 2021, at which time they will be opened and read aloud. MBE/WBE, Apprenticeship program, and Local and Disadvantaged Workforce requirements may apply to this project. Additional information must be found at: www. erie.gov/dpw. Attention is called to COVID bid procedures on the County’s website.

To advertise inquire at: advertising@ thechallengernews.com

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

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

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

17

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2,2021

EMPLOYMENT Family2Family Specialist

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Assist with duties within the Compliance Dept w/a focus on QA measures & auditing.

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Cover letter & resume to WNYIL, Inc. 3108 Main St Buffalo NY 14214 employment@wnyil.org EEOC

Van Driver

Transport persons w/disabilities to & from Various points in a Coordinate living skills, evalua- wheelchair lift equipped tions, And trainings for persons Van or regular vehicle. Must have clean Driving record withwith disabilities. Associate in past 2 years. Cover letter & Degree required. 22.5 hrs/wk. resume required to Resume and cover letter to WNYIL, Inc, 3108 Main St WNYIL, Inc. 3108 Main St Buffalo NY 14214 Buffalo, NY 14214 employment@wnyil.org EEOC employment@wnyil.org EEOC

Tech Support III

Set up & provide tech support/ training to Staff on electronic & peripheral equipment. Must have Associate deg & website builder exp. Cover letter & resume to WNYIL, Inc. 3108 Main St Buffalo NY 14214 employment@wnyil.org EEOC

Open Doors Transition Specialist

Facilitate & coordinate, for people Residing in institutions, a plan to Re-enter the community.

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NY Connects Independent Living Outreach Specialist

Help connect aging or disabled individuals and their Families to support groups and streamline access to Public benefits and application assistance.

Asso. degree and human services exp. req. Resume and cover letter to WNYIL, Inc 3108 Main St Buffalo, NY, 14214 employment@wnyil.org EEOC NAME CHANGE

Notice is hereby given that an order entered by the supreme court, Erie County, on the 16th day of November, 2021, bearing index number 2021/600307, a copy of which may be examined at the office of clerk, located at 92 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY grants me the right to assume the name of Empress Zati. The city and state of my present address are Buffalo, New York; the month and year of my birth are December, 1991; the place of my birth is Buffalo, New York; my present name is Jeanette Nicole Carrion.

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18

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2,2021

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GAMMA’S DECEMBER PICS

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16-20-27-44-49-55 +38

996

515 140 Challenger Hits MIDDAY

2-7-3 ZR, Ma Ruth, Pisces, Cancer, Libra (box) 6-5-9 Taurus (box) 4-2-2 Quick$ (straight)

African Consciousness Workshop Every Monday 4-6pm, Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Avenue. “Where we learn About Our Glorious Past & Present African Family.” (716)400-8644 or kmtfllix@gmailcom The Buffalo Zoo Lights A light show, Christmas music and a visit with Santa at Buffalo Zoo 300 Parkside avenue for month of December from 5:30 – 9:30pm Go to buffalozoo.org for more info.

Festival of Lights For the month of December The Fairgrounds Festival of lights annual event is underway at5820 South Park avenue. Rides for kiddies, see a holiday show and visit Santa Go to the-fairgrounds.com for info.

EAT OFF ART POP UP

431 Ellicott is every Friday and Saturday from 12 -6pm featuring art, apparel jewelry and more by Edreys and Alexa Wajed. Ends Dec. 24.go to eatoffart.com for info.

EVENING 4-1-8 Quick$ (straight) 0-0-9 ZR (box) 3-8-5 Virgo (straight) 4-2-2 Quick$ (straight)

890-COVID CASH$$-356

190-093-142-534857-521-406-9961

1027 LUCKIE DUCKIE

743-133-202- 335 -2015-44441871-0978 134-431--143-

648*123*104

980-422-809-981989-970-990-080-800515-996-390-196-102581-752-319-408-378352-126-189-444-886514- 332-522-112-432421-423-154-039-524

GRANDMA'S DECEMBER-DOUBLES

662-711-919-422 Madam Ozlla's Predictions 140-143-133-392-320-965-843 5037-2156-3034-1342

19

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2,2021

MON. DEC. 6 Hustle for Health Urban Line Dance Fitness with at Gloria Parks Community Center 3242 Main St, Buffalo. 12pm - 1pm. FREE for ages 55+ Visit Hustlefor Health.com to RSVP TUES. DEC.7 Line Dance Classes With Ms. Foxie, Martha Mitchell Center, 165 Oakmont (Langfield) Tuesdays 6-7 p.m. (716)833-1038.

Louis Maurice Hawkins U.S. Navy

1988-1998 U.S.S. Iowa BB-61 Norfolk Naval Station Petty Officer Third Class Master At Arms Maurice is a survivor of the U.S.S. Iowa BB-61 explosion in which 47 fellow sailors perished that fateful day on 19 April 1989 off the coast of Puerto Rico.

Fair Winds and Following Seas Shipmates!

WED.DEC. 8 Hustle for Health Urban Line Dancing at Gloria Parks Community Center 3242 Main St., Buffalo.

11am- 12pm. FREE for ages 55+ 716 832-1010 x 211 to RSVP THURS. DEC. 9 Line Dance Classes With Ms. Foxie, Schiller Park Center, 2057 Genesee St. on Thursdays 10:3011:30 ages 60 and over.

(716)895-2727.

Fruit Belt Neighborhood Conversation

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

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

The BFNC New CEO, Chandra Redfern, is inviting the community to a Conversation about the Fruit Belt neighborhood. Tuesday, November 9, at 6:00 p.m. @ the Moot Center 292 High Street, Refreshments. Please let us know if you can attend. )8560363 Email: lharwell@bfnc.org

Get the AARP® Medicare Advantage Plan from UnitedHealthcare *Doctor Coverage *$0 copay for preventative care

*Prescription Drug Coverage *$0 copay for Contact: Tanya Mulvaney/ Liscensed Sales Agent lab services *$0 or low copay *Routine Vision Coverage

717-435-9339 tanya_m_mulvaney@uhc.com

Locust Street Art’s 2nd Annual Holiday Market Locust Street Art’s 2nd Annual Holiday Market from December 4th - December 11th .Dec. 4th - 1-5pm; Dec. 5th - Closed; Dec 6th - 1-5pm; Dec. 7th - 1-6:30; Dec 8th - 1-6:30pm; Dec. 9th - 1-6:30pm;BDec 10th - Closed; Dec. 11th - 1-4pm www.locuststreetart.org www.locuststreetart.org/holidaymarket

©2021 New York Lottery

PLEASE GIFT RESPONSIBLY.

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

Recyclable Tickets

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

20

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2,2021

BUY HOLIDAY TICKETS NOW! B U F F A L O

P H I L H A R M O N I C

O R C H E S T R A

Bring a new,

unwrapped toy

for a child in need!

The BPO is a

drop-off location.

John Morris Russell’s

Jazzy Vanessa Williams

Elf TM

in Concert

Film with Live Orchestra

Fri Dec 3, 7:30pm

John Debney, conductor

Relive this heartwarming holiday classic as your BPO performs every note of John Debney’s wonderful score live to film!

ELF and all related characters and elements © & ™ New Line Productions, Inc. (s21).

Brought to you by CineConcerts.

CLASSICS 21303

Tue Dec 7, 7:30pm

Ron Spigelman, conductor

The multi-faceted performer of film, stage, and television is also one of the world’s most accomplished concert artists, and her orchestral performance with your BPO will feature holiday favorites along with Broadway show tunes, pop songs, and personal stories from her celebrated career.

JoAnn’s Classical Christmas

Fri Dec 10, 10:30am Sat Dec 11, 7:30pm

JoAnn Falletta, conductor Sirgourney Cook, soprano

Wintry classical treasures including Rimsky-Korsakov, Glazunov, Bizet, selections from The Nutcracker and Messiah, and the always popular Leroy Anderson carols anchor a program that will unwrap even more holiday joy!

Holiday Pops

Thu Dec 16, 10:30am Fri Dec 17, 10:30am Sat Dec 18, 7:30pm Sun Dec 19, 2:30pm

John Morris Russell, conductor

Our own “Mr. Christmas” maestro conducts festive Pops favorites featuring sensational Buffalo singers Curtis Lovell and George Brown, Normal St. Entrance, and an eclectic variety of carols plus seasonal music from popular song, film, musical theatre, gospel, and jazz.

TICKETS AT (716) 885-5000 OR BPO.ORG

BPO Film presented by

FREE

On Demand Broadcast!

Jingle Bell Jam Sun Dec 12, 2:30pm

Broadcast available for an additional 30 days

Jaman E. Dunn, conductor

A family tradition of festive frivolity is wrapped with a virtual bow this season!

Stream our video broadcast from the safety and comfort of your own home.

Register at bpo.org.

Coffee concerts presented by