Challenger Community News May 11, 2016

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May 11, 2016 • FREE

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NATIONAL

FROM PROTEST TO OLIVE BRANCH

LP Ciminelli Company Extends ‘Olive Branch’ To Activists After Main St. Protest Rally PG. 3 GENERATIONS

PG.10

Report shows minority students a majority in public schools. Yet more than 80 percent PG. 4 of teachers are White…

FAITH BASED

INSIDE ROCHESTER

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT!

President Obama Pens Letter to Buffalo 4th Grader Jennell Robinson

Where are the Teachers of Color?

Lightfoot Launches New Barber/Cosmetologists Organization

PG. 2

Rev. Beaman Runs For Bishop!

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Challenger Community News • May 11-17, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.

Lightfoot Launches United Professional Barbers and Cosmetologists Association Rochester-- The United Professional Barbers and Cosmetologists Association has been officially launched in Rochester, NY. This organization is the realized dream of Willie Lightfoot who began holding meetings in 2007. In partnership with Workers United, as of March 2016, this association is recognized as a non-profit 501C6 in the State of New York.

This is the newest endeavor of Mr. Lightfoot who has been a lifelong advocate in the Rochester community. He was a former Monroe County Legislature for ten years, is a current member of the City of Rochester Fire Department, and throughout it all has owned and operated New Creations Unisex Shop as a licensed Master Barber.

In a life that has been spent serving others for the benefit of his community, Mr. Lightfoot, along with his newly appointed board of directors, formed this association to create a resource for education and networking to those in the barbering and cosmetology industry.

Their first class will be offered on Wednesday May 25th from 6pm8pm at Workers United. The topics of focus will be Personal and Business Money Management. As the first class it will be free and open to all those in the industry that would like to join.

Kemetic Study Group Formed

Around Town *The Omega Cabaret 2016, Featuring Brownskin, Saturday May 28 from 8p.m.

Until 1a.m.The Party House 677 Beahan Road, Food, Dancing, Dj, And Loads Of Fun B.Y.O.B.,Tickets $30.

Contact Dwight 585-7494585 Or Stoneq85@Aol. com

A Kemetic Study Group based on the Metu Neter series, a modern practice of the spiritual tradition of Ancient Egypt, will be held on Sundays from 4-6 p.m. at 333 Hollenbeck Street in Rochester. Join us! For more information contact Ausar at (585)743-8527.

The Following Events @ The

Baobab Cultural Center

728 University Ave 585-563-2145 •YOGA with Jim Thompson: Tuesday 5:45 - 7:15; "EASY" YOGA: Wednesdays, 5:457:15.

•AFRICAN WORLD HISTORY CLASS - Tuesdays, 7:30 pm.

•WEST AFRICAN DRUMMING Saturdays: 14-Adult 9:30-11am; Youth 13 & under: 11am-12pm.

Willie Lightfoot association is to: “Enhance personal and business development, industry advocacy, and community involvement.” The feedback from industry leaders in Rochester has been thus far extraordinary.

There are several planned events that will be available for viewing

on the official website (www.upbca.org) as well as contact information for the board members should there be any questions on how and when to become involved. Federal, State, County, City Officials, and community have all been invited.

RABJ Names Brooks New Vice President

The Rochester Association of Black Journalists has appointed Kristopher Brooks, innovation and entrepreneurship reporter with the Democrat and Chronicle, as its new vice president for social media. Richard McCollough, RABJ president, has The purpose 11793 in the by-laws of the General appointed Brooks succeed Michelle Faust.

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Home Buying Seminar

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AREA BRIEFS

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Challenger Community News • May 11-17, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

LP Ciminelli Company Extends 'Olive Branch' To Activists After Main Street Protest Rally By Legislator Betty Jean Grant

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From left: Paulette Woods, Theresa A. Harris-Tigg, Sharon Belton-Cottman

COMMUNITY CANDIDATES SCHOOL BOARD WINNERS!

Paulette Woods was the winner in the race for the Central District in last week’s School Board Elections with 1,207 votes to candidate Bryon J. McIntyre’s 932. She will replace former School Board Member Mary Ruth Kapsiak. East District representative, Theresa A. Harris-Tigg, who called the election results (which essentially ushered in a new majority) “a victory for our community,” was also a decisive winner in her bid for reelection with 846 votes.

Incumbent Sharon Belton-Cottman ran unopposed in the Ferry District but still came out with 1,186 votes. Additional winners were Jennifer L. Mecozzi in the West District, Hope R. Jay in North District and Carl Paladino in Park District. Mr. Paladino’s opponent, 18-year old Hutch Tech senior Austin Harig (1,436 to Palaldino’s 1543), ran an impressive race. Although some predicted a low voter turnout, almost as many people went to the polls as three years ago when the turnout was in record numbers. (Figures from Board of elections Election Night results).

Investigative Post to Host Free Workshop on Workforce Diversity in the Construction Trades Investigative Post is holding a workshop May 25 aimed at educating the community, contractors, unions and policymakers on how to promote diversity in the construction trades. Charlotte Keith will recap her extensive reporting on the topic for Investigative Post. John Goldstein, a national expert in workforce diversity, will then discuss the key steps in building a pipeline to connect low-income residents and construction jobs. The event starts at 7 p.m. at the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site, 641 Delaware Ave. For more info investigativepost.org

Attention Residents! Take Part in Planning for The Development of Deaconess Hospital Site The Deaconess Site Community Coalition ( DSCC) would like to inform the community of our planning for the development of the former Deaconess Hospital site. The site is located on the east end of the two blocks bounded by Riley, Kingsley and Northhampton Streets in the East-West direction and Humboldt Parkway running North-South. DSCC has been continuously meeting the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at 5 p.m. at the Herbert V. Reid Senior Citizen manor, located at 228 Kingsley St, 2nd floor Community Room. We will be having conceptual drawings of the former Deaconess Hospital site to reflect the community’s desire for home ownership. We expect this task to be completed in the very near future. The public is invited to attend regularly scheduled meetings. Call 716 400-2041.

FREE LEGAL ADVICE

The Free Legal Advice Clinic is free of charge and open to the public. Lawyers will be on hand to discuss issues and give advice on ANY issues you have questions about. Hosted by WNY Council on Occupational Safety and Health (WNY COSH) and PUSH Buffalo. Our Lady of Hope Church corner of Lafayette and Grant. Thursday 5-19-16 / 4:30pm to 6:30 pm Any questions call Marshall at WNY COSH @ 716 833-5416

n Monday, May 9, the members and officers of the Contract Compliance Review Committee participated in a protest rally to call attention to the plight of African American and Latino men and women as it relates to the employment and training of individuals from these two minority groups. The rally, organized by the committee's cochairs, Charley H. Fisher and Betty Jean Grant, was called after a controversial article by a Legislator Grant (center) and Charley H. Fisher (right) speak to news local newspaper reporter stated media at protest rally and press conference. that the minority percent on the SolarCity project was not only being met but was exceeding the minority workforce goals of 15% minority and 5 % women. The Contract Compliance Review committee members were confused because only a few short months ago, data was released that showed the participation levels were only 5.6% instead of the aspirational goal of 15%.

The decision to protest at LP Ciminelli's company was also made because in the past our committee had requested certain information from the company to back up their claims. Up to and including the day of the protest rally, no information or even an acknowledgement of our request was ever confirmed by LP Ciminelli. After a 30 minute rally and press conference in front of the company, our group led a small procession to the door of the company for a personal meeting with the company's officials. We were allowed in and after a couple of hours, we departed with business cards and promises from them that they would attend meetings in the community at a place and time chosen by us.

One thing we found out at the meeting, was that many of the concerns and issues we raised at this particular meeting could only be addressed and possibly solved by dialogue and interaction with the area's union leaders. The Contract Compliance Review Committee is looking forward to the community meetings with LP Ciminelli and the unions that we believe will lead to a collaboration that will increase training and employment opportunities for those who, at this time, seem to be left behind in Buffalo's job and construction boom.

Buffalo Schools Superintendent Dr. Kriner Cash to Keynote Stop The Violence Awards Banquet

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uffalo Schools Superintendent Dr. Kriner Cash will deliver the keynote address at the 5th Annual Stop The Violence Coalition, Inc. Awards Banquet on Friday, May 20 from 5:3010:30p.m. at The Aqua Restaurant, located at 2192 Niagara St. This year’s theme “Stand Up and Speak Out…the March Continues” speaks to those who have continued to stay focused in the mission of peace and bettering the community in spite of adversity and struggles. The following awards will be presented to those individuals who have successfully continued in their mission to leave a positive legacy for our community: Clergy Services Award, Pastor Garney Davis; Business Services Award, Darrell Saxon – Thomas Edwards Funeral Home, Thomas Childs of Destiny’s Pizza and Tim Hall, The ink Spot; Criminal Justice Services Award, Attorney General William Hochul and Judge Craig Hannah; Youth Services Award, Danielle Roberts, YMCA and Pastor Bob Kuebler, Youth With A Purpose; Community Service Award, Marnetta Malcolm and Buffalo Fire Department Commissioner Garnell Whitfield Jr.; Peacemaker’s Award, Buffalo Police Department Commissioner Dan Darenda and Officer Harold Walker; and the Stop The Violence Honorary Award, Paul Hogan – Oishei Foundation.

Dr. Cash In addition to a keynote address by Buffalo Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Cash, the event will also include a silent auction, raffles, dinner and dancing. Donations for tickets are $50 per person and $350 per table of 8. Gold, silver and bronze sponsorships are also available. Carlanda Wilson - Banquet Co-Chair The Coalition has earned a well-deserved reputation as the “Peacemakers of Buffalo” since its founding in July 2004.

Mound Bayou Residents in Front of Store, Late 1930s. Photo courtesy of BlackPast.org

OUR TOWN

The Land of Promise: Mound Bayou, Mississippi Mound Bayou was an all-Black town located in the Yazoo Delta of Northwest Mississippi. Established in 1887 by Isaiah Montgomery and 12 other pioneers, the town was considered a new “land of promise” for Black Americans. According to BlackPast.org, an online reference guide to African-American history, this promise included “self-help, race pride, economic opportunity, and social justice.” The community was also self-segregated, which limited interaction with Whites until integration was an option.

Mound Bayou had a post office, six churches, a bank and countless public and private schools. Through its newspaper, The Demonstrator, the town pushed the importance of education. The community continued to thrive and boasted a population of 8,000 by 1911. Unfortunately, The Great Migration period from 1915 to 1930 caused a sharp decline in the populace. Yet, the town still exists today.

The Town Destroyed to Make Way for Central Park: Seneca Village, N.Y. Seneca Village was founded in 1825, when Epiphany Davis and Andrew Williams became the first African-Americans to buy land in the area. Trustees of the AME Zion Church then purchased eight plots of land close by. By 1829, nine homes had been built. The dwellings ranged from one-room houses to three-story houses made of wood and brick. The town also featured three churches and a schoolhouse.

According to the Central Park Conservancy, an 1855 census showed 250 residents living in Seneca Village, with 70 homes built. After a history of just 32 years, the end of the town came when the New York State legislature used eminent domain to seize the occupied land and build what is now Central Park.

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Challenger Community News • May 11-17, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.

Where are the teachers of color?

Today, a student in America can go from kindergarten to college and never have one teacher of color. In a nation where minorities are a growing share of the 50 million children in public schools, the proportion of teachers who are racial minorities has not kept up: More than 80 percent of teachers are white

Delrish Moss

Delrish Moss Named Ferguson, Mo., Police Chief Veteran Florida cop Delrish Moss has been picked to lead Ferguson, Mo.'s Police Department, a department that became the subject of national news after a white officer fatally shot unarmed teen Michael Brown in 2014 and a federal probe concluded that there was racial bias throughout the city's justice system.

"Change doesn't come easily, but I think I'm ready for that challenge," Moss said.

Moss, 51, a major with the Miami Police Department, will bring 32 years of experience to the job, which Ferguson officials hope will repair its department's reputation since the killing of Brown.

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he U.S. Department of Education released a report last week titled “The State of Racial Diversity in the Educator Workforce,” in conjunction with the National Summit on Teacher Diversity held at the Department.

The report noted a lack of racial diversity among teachers at public elementary and secondary schools across the nation. Less than one in five U.S. public school teachers — 18 percent — are individuals of color, while approximately half —49 percent — of public elementary and secondary school students are individuals of color.

That means today, a student in America can go from kindergarten to college and never have one teacher of color. In a nation where minorities are a growing share of the 50 million children in public schools, the proportion of teachers who are racial minorities has not kept up: More

than 80 percent of teachers are White.

Buffalo reflects the disparity. According to Samuel L. Radford, III, president of the District Parent Coordinating Council, the city’s minority population stands at 75% minority and only 9% of the teachers are African American.

Stated Secretary of Education John B. King Jr. at the summit: “It’s important for

students of color to have role models who look like them and share common experiences. It’s just as important for all students to see teachers of color in leadership roles in their classrooms and communities. We must work together to support states and districts as they work to prepare, hire, support, and retain a more diverse teacher workforce.”

Secretary King has reportedly prioritized supporting

and lifting up the teaching profession and is committed to supporting efforts to increase diversity in the teaching profession so that our teaching force more closely reflects the increasingly diverse student population it serves.

The Report made the following findings and observations: “Since teachers of color can be positive role models for all students in breaking down negative stereotypes and in preparing students to live and work in a multiracial society, this diversity gap suggests that the U.S. public school system is not reaping the known benefits we could experience if we had greater diversity in the teacher workforce.

The State of Racial Diversity in the Educator Workforce document also highlights a potential reason for this gap in the fact that students of color are underrepresented in teacher prep programs; only 26% of enrollees in teacher prep program are students of color.

-Black Male Figures even Worse“Research shows that diversity in schools, including racial diversity among teachers, can provide significant benefits to students. While students of color are expected

to make up 56 percent of the student population by 2024, the elementary and secondary educator workforce is still overwhelmingly White.

“In fact, the most recent U.S. Department of Education Schools and Staffing Survey (SASS), a nationally representative survey of teachers and principals, showed that 82 percent of public school teachers identified as White. This figure has hardly changed in more than 15 years; data from a similar survey conducted by the Department in 2000 found that 84 percent of teachers identified as White. In addition, Black men make up only 2 percent of the teaching workforce nationwide.!

The report continued: “Improving teacher diversity can help all students. Teachers of color are positive role models for all students in breaking down negative stereotypes and preparing students to live and work in a multiracial society. A more diverse teacher workforce can also supplement training in the culturally sensitive teaching practices most effective with today’s student populations.

GivePeaceAChance

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I am excited to continue bringing local art to the public in a way that is affordable, accessible and fun!”

Marcus Wise, 2015 Grad www.464gallery.com

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FAITH & FAMILY

First Shiloh Baptist Church Presents Women’s Weekend 2016

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he First Shiloh Baptist Church women’s fellowship will celebrate “The Power of Prayer” for Women’s Weekend 2016.

On Friday night, May 20 they will screen the movie “War Room” at 6:00 PM in the E.J. Echols Fellowship Hall, and a discussion will follow. Shiloh has invited First Ladies from churches around Buffalo to lead a prayer breakfast on Saturday May 21, from 8:30 AM – 11:00 AM. The prayer lead-

ers will be Min. Ina Chapman, Lady Linda Donalson, Min. Janice Fisher, Elder Lula Herring, Rev. Chan-Tell King-Beckwith, Lady Zandra Lewis and Lady Tanya Staples.

The weekend keynote speaker is the Rev. Victoria Ferguson-Young of the First Afrikan Presbyterian Church, Atlanta, Georgia, who will preach on Sunday, May 22 at the 10:00 AM worship service. A daughter of Shi-

loh, Rev. Ferguson-Young follows her passion for the work of ending domestic and gender-based violence. She is the founder of The Kindred Moxie Network, which educates and trains faith leaders and advocates on the intersection of faith and domestic violence. Victoria is also the Coordinator of the Ending Abuse in Later Life Project for DeKalb County, Georgia. The Project is focused on improving services for older victims of domestic

violence and abuse through training law enforcement and professionals, and working to create systemic changes to better assist elderly victims. Rev. Ferguson-Young is a legal communications graduate of Howard University and earned the M. Div. at the Morehouse School of Religion at the Interdenominational Theological Center.

The Women’s Day Chorus directed by Maestro Edna Gayles Kee will bring spe-

cial music at the Women’s Day service, and women in the congregation are asked to wear “hat and gloves” for the Sunday service. A light reception will follow immediately after morning worship.

Rev. Jonathan R. Staples is Senior Pastor of First Shiloh Baptist Church and Sis. Yvonne Hargrave is chair of the Women’s Fellowship.

Rev. Ferguson-Young

WORSHIP THIS WEEK!

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FAITH & FAMILY

Rev. Dr. Beaman Runs for Bishop: Citywide Celebration Set

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he Western New York Committee to Elect “Beaman for Bishop” welcomes the Rev. Dr. Silvester S. Beaman “home” for a citywide celebration. The event will take place on May 19, at 6:30 p.m. at St. John AME Church, 917 Garden Avenue, Niagara Falls. Rev. Beaman will preach at the event.

Rev. Beaman is a native Niagarian and a 1978 graduate of Niagara Falls High School. Rev. Beaman earned his baccalaureate degree with honors from Wilberforce University. In 1985, he achieved his Master of Divinity degree, as a Mary McCloud Bethune Scholar from Boston University School of Theology.

In 2012, he earned his Doctorate of Ministry degree in Transformational Leadership from Payne Theological Seminary/Bakke Graduate School.

Rev. Beaman grew up on the city’s north side and sang tenor in the St. John AME Church Youth/Young Adult Choir and preached from several local pulpits. Rev. Beaman went on to be a close confidant to a sitting Vice President of the United States of America, council three Governors of the State of Delaware and serve on their transition teams, offer prayers in both the United States Senate and the House of Representatives, serve on the World Methodist Counsel Executive Committee, General Board of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and be inducted into the Morehouse College Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Board Preachers.

Pray for PEACE

Community Forum!Calling All Fruit Belt Residents!!

If you have a vacant lot next to your house or behind your house, come let us show you how you can turn that lot into monthly revenue! Attend a meeting at the Rev. Dr. Bennett W. Smith, Sr. Family Life Center, 833 Michigan, Thursday, May 12 at 6 pm. For more information contact Mrs. Melson at (716) 856-0029 ext. 229. Sponsored by the St. John Fruit Belt Community Development Corporation Business and Leadership Academy.

Two Day Conference on Civil Rights Justice

Rev. Dr. Silvester S. Beaman, Pastor of Bethel Methodist Episcopal Church in Wilmington, Delaware is an aspirant for Episcopal Ministry in the REV. BEAMAN AME Church. In July 2016, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the Delegates to the 49th Session of the General Conference will determine those who will serve the Church as new Bishops.

Serving as Pastor of Bethel Methodist Episcopal Church since 1993, Rev. Beaman’s commitment to ministry is evident by the establishment of the AIDS Task Force, men’s, women’s, and senior citizen ministries, youth mentoring programs and a community evangelism outreach program. Rev. Beaman also established the Beautiful Gate Outreach Center ministries – a full service provider to individuals who are living with HIV/AIDS and their families.

This ministry is internationally recognized and has been featured on CNN News. He also created Bethel Helping Caring Hands, a nonprofit organization established exclusively for charitable, religious and/or educational purposes.

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Challenger Community News • May 11-17, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

Weddings Retirement Graduation Parties Repass Outdoor Summer Picnics - up to 1,000 people & More

The National Association for Equal Justice of America (NAEJA) will present a two day conference on Civil Rights Justice Friday May 13 from 6-8 p.m. and Saturday may 14 from 12n noon – 3 pm. at Mt. Aaron Baptist Church, 540 Genesee Street.

The conference will feature Brother Royce Esters of Compton, California, CEO and President of NAEJA, and Brother Timothy Bennett of Cleveland, Ohio, Community Liaison for NAEJA. Buffalo community leaders will also participate. Refreshments will e served.

For additional details contact Sister Nora Massey at 578-5671 or Sister Karima Amin at 834-8438. The conference s free and open to the public!

Mother’s Board Revival Welcome! Be blessed! Acts 2:4 John 3:16 Read Psalm 49 A Four-Day Revival will be held Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday May 10 – 13 at 7 p.m. nightly at Cold Spring COGIC 107 Verplank Street where Joseph L. Wallace is Pastor. Please come for repentance and saving of souls. Bishop Gerald Drayton is in charge. Mother Brant is President of Mother’s Board.

Worship This Week

2669 Union Rd. @ William St. Cheektowaga, NY 14227 Free Parking Phone: 668-8668

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Entertainment/Lifestyles

Challenger Community News • May 11-17, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.

ON STAGE *Alex Bugnon, May 28 @ 7pm New Golden Nugget. Advance tickets $30.

*Smokey Robinson, June 11 @ 8 p.m., Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino; ticketmaster 1-8-00-745-3000. *Farragut North, on stage at Road Less Traveled Theater, 500 Pearl Street, April 29 – May 22, Thursday/Friday/ Saturday 7:30 p.m. & Sunday 2 p.m.; featuring Richard Satterwhite, Peter Johnson, Danica Riddick and Xavier Harris Tickets $20 @ 629-3069. *“Detroit 67” on stage at the Paul Robeson Theatre at the African American Cultural Center, 350 Masten Avenue, May 6 – May 29, Friday & Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday 4:00pm. Directed by Aaron Moss, starring Annette L. Christian, Heather Reed, Candace Whitfield, Shabar Rouse and Gary-Kayi Fletcher. Special Mothers Day Dinner Sunday May 8th $50 Per Person Dinner at 4 p.m.

Sand 6 pm. Call For Reservation And Menu. Special rate with coupon $20.00 per person on May 7, 13, 22, visit website www.aaccbuffalo.org or for more info email paulrobesontheatrebuffalo@gmail.com

*Ceelo Green: 7 p.m., June 11.

Town Ballroom, 681 Main St. townballroom.com. tickets $29.50 - $104.5

SEE YOU AT THE EVENTS!

*Marsha McWilson Friday, May 27, Buffalo Convention Center, 7 p.m. donation is $30. For tickets or info 8327542 or 741-1908.

*Muhammad School of Music Voice of My Heart Recital Series, “Beethoven & Ballerina” featuring Maestro Henri Star Muhammad Orchestra and Ballerina Amirah Muhammad, Sunday, May 15 at 3 p.m., Aloma D. Johnson Charter School, 2408 Main Street; $20 advance, $25 @ door; (716)570-5064 or 881-5088.

**Canal Side Concerts: June 23, Public Enemy, August 18, Coolio; www.canalsidebuffalo.com

Party Over Here

*Juneteenth Second Annual Gala Event, “Harlem Nights Gimme that Swing 2016!” On Friday, May 15, 5 to 11 p.m. at the Statler City Ballroom, 107 Delaware Ave. Admission is $75. juneteenthofbuffalo.com or call (716) 891 - 8801. Tickets are at Doris Records. *The National Black MBA Association Soul Bowl,Saturday, May 14, 70s, 80s Throw-Down, Throwback Dance Party: 8 PM – 1 AM Kerns Avenue Bowling Center, 163 Kerns Avenue,.

Donation $20 per person .Email benjamin.walden@ ymail.com.

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Metropolitan Opera Star Returns To Inspire Buffalo Public School Students Through The Art Of Music

Entertainment/Lifestyles

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Buffalo middle school students to experience opera with famed Opera Soprano, Angela Brown through unique “Success Looks Like Me®” program

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etropolitan Opera Soprano and philanthropist, Angela Brown returns to Western New York for a second time as featured presenter and partner for a Communities of Giving Legacy Initiative (CGLI) Success Looks Like Me® Role Model event with a group of 400 Buffalo Public

School students at the Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Arts (BAVPA) on Thursday, May 12.

Brown will conduct an interactive performance of her popular one-woman-show entitled “Opera from a Sistah’s Point of View,” and will also perform traditional opera from the English, European and Russian schools, with the hopes of inspiring a child’s imagination and providing access, experiences and opportunities for city youth to arts & cultural offerings.

The CGLI was officially introduced to the public in 2010 with support from Brown which included a performance for more than 2,000 Buffalo Public School students at Kleinhans Music Hall.

The CGLI, a fund of the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, was created to increase philanthropy within and for Western New York communities of color.

As a premier program of the CGLI, Success Looks Like Me® provides youth of color living in low-income communities with opportunities to interact with successful adults who reflect the multicultural richness of Western New York and nation.

Brown is appearing for Success Looks Like Me® through a program partner-

Opera Soprano Angela Brown

ship with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra (BPO).

Brown will also perform Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess in concert with the BPO and Kevin Deas on Saturday, May 14. Patrons interested in attending this performance can purchase a CGLI VIP ticket through the BPO box office by calling (716) 8855001. A portion of all CGLI supported ticket sales for this performance will go towards helping the organization continue to provide access opportunities for youth of color. .

SEE YOU AT THE EVENTS!

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Challenger Community News • May 11-17, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

GENERATIONS

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Julian (center) with family, friends and supportesr after signing.

Jessica Nicole Butler

St. Joe’s Julian Smallwood to Continue Track & Field Success

On May 15 Jessica Nicole Butler will receive her Masters of Education Degree from Marymount University in Arlington VA. Jessica is a 2010 graduate of East High School in Buffalo. She received her Bachelor’s from Marymount in 2014. Jessica will remain in the DC area as she is actively being recruited by the local school districts.

Jessica is the daughter of proud parents Deacon Tracy and Rachel Butler and the sister of Raphael and Jazmine.

Remember the past, live in the present and look forward to the future! May your graduation be just the beginning of a lifetime of fulfillment for you.

You truly deserve the success!

St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute is proud to announce that Julian Smallwood has signed a National Letter of Intent to continue his track & field career with Belmont Abbey College. A two time All-Catholic champion, Smallwood was a qualifier for Catholic states beginning his sophomore year. He placed second in shotput indoor at the Catholic states his senior year after a fifth place finish the year prior. The 2016 team captain capped off his successful high school career ranking in the top 10 in New York State. Also recognizing his accomplishments in the classroom, Smallwood received both athletic and academic scholarships from the college.

Congratulations Jessica Nicole Butler!

Niagara Falls Youth to Perform in Walkin’ In Rhythm…’ Spring Concert

NIAGARA FALLS, NY – The Niagara Falls Housing Authority is proud to present the annual Spring Concert entitled “Walkin’ in Rhythm…Movin’ in Sound” on Friday, May 20, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. The concert will be held in the Theater of the Doris W. Jones Family Resource Building at 3001 Ninth Street, NF, NY 14305.Featured concert presenters include the Niagara Falls Housing Authority Youth Choir.The event is free and open to the public.

Refreshments will be served.

Submitted by Sanaa Jones, who was really impressed with the owner of the UniverSoul Circus and can’t wait to see the Show! See their ad page 16.

A TRUE INSPIRATION!

Little Anaya Ellick was born without hands and does not use prosthetics. However, the first-grader at Greenbrier Christian Academy in Chesapeake, Va., still has some of the neatest handwriting in her class and even beat out 300,000 other grade school students to win the Nicholas Maxim Special Award for Excellence in Manuscript Penmanship. Anaya chooses to hold her pencil between her two arms and stands up at her desk to get the right angle to write on her paper. “It may be different, it may be hard, the road may be long, but she will persevere,” Bianca Middleton, Anaya’s mom, said.

Jennell Robinson

President Obama Pens Letter to Jennell Robinson

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few weeks ago, 9-year old Jennell Robinson, a 4th grader at the respected Dr. Charles R. Drew Science School (PS 59), got the surprise of her life. She received a letter from none other than, the 44th President of the United States of America himself, Barack Obama. The letter, dated March 25, 2016, was mailed to her home in Buffalo’s University District.

How did it come to pass that this relatively shy little girl received such a historical correspondence from the nation’s first Black President?

It began in the latter part of 2015. While visiting with her maternal grandmother, Jennell Robinson, for whom she’s named after, the precocious 4th grader stated, “I wish President Obama could come back to Buffalo.” Her grandmother replied, “Well Jennell, why don’t you write him a letter.”

The impressionable grandchild then asked, “You can do that?” Her grandmother reassured it could be done.

Young Jennell then took the initiative to search and find the President’s address using her smart tablet. She actually wrote him a letter and mailed it. In the correspondence, she praised the President and expressed admiration for his beautiful family, and stated how proud she was of him.

Months later, without any prior notice, she received a response from 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, in an official White House envelope. The parcel arrived first class, with a message “Do Not Bend” stamped across it. Inside the envelope, secured against packaging cardboard, were pictures of President Obama, the First Family, and the White House’s Presidential dog “Bo.” It also contained educational worksheets on wellness, such as “Get out and Play,” with the underlying question, “How do you stay active?” As CONTINUED PAGE 12

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Challenger Community News • May 11-17, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

Journalistic Malpractice: Observations About the School Board Elections

D

ay after day after day, leading up to Tuesday’s school board election, articles in the Buffalo News predicted an Armageddon if certain candidates were not re-elected or elected to the Board. The headlines screamed warnings about the untenable and catastrophic consequences that would result from the seismic shift of power, if majority bloc members were not re-elected. They bemoaned the use of the fairly common tactic of challenging an opponent’s petitions as endemic of the “hard-ball, bare-knuckle Buffalo politics” that had infected the electoral process, even though this maneuver was used by their preferred candidate in his first race three years ago. They conveniently ignored the fact Barbara that Mr. Sampson successfully removed NEVERGOLD Mr. Hernandez from the ballot in 2013 or that Mr. Paladino attempted to knock Mr. Harig off the ballot this year.

Using vague or few facts to substantiate their recommendations, they endorsed little-known, un- accomplished candidates over seasoned incumbents whose records they tried to trash.

Ironically, they attributed incremental academic successes, e.g. the increase in the graduate rates, to Board President James Sampson and North District Representative, Jason McCarthy.

In doing so, they contradicted their own assessment of the significance of this progress indicator. They previously downplayed this accomplishment as this is an outcome of Dr. Pamela Brown’s Superintendency. In this regard, they are consistent, however, in that they’ve never attributed credit to Dr. Brown for this achievement or acknowledged the fact that the schools which were removed from receivership earlier this year also made progress under Dr. Brown’s tenure.

Employing a documented propaganda strategy, the News purposefully published multiple daily articles in various formats, supporting their message of impending doom and gloom.

They lamented the demise of the majority bloc’s “reform” agenda and mused about the chaos the District would experience if the “status quo”, “union supported” minority succeeded in winning a position as the new majority. One can almost picture the handwringing and hear the moaning of the editorial writers as they penned their fear-mongering opinion pieces. They touted the union’s support of some candidates as tantamount to that group taking control of the District. Yet, the Buffalo Niagara Partnership’s bankrolling of the incumbent majority members and at least one challenger was framed as the business community fulfilling its civic responsibility.

The Buffalo News’ unprecedented coverage of the School Board, the candidates, and the issues (as they determined them) was intended to sway public opinion during an election season that had few public forums or other opportunities to meet the candidates. In the end, voters saw through the ruse and refused to be influenced by irresponsible, biased journalism. Rejecting the News’ arguments, they cast their ballots for the children.

The new Board-elect is comprised of new and returning Board members, who are united in an agenda that aims to re-focus the Board on the broad educational needs of all children in the District.

I began writing this column two years ago because a) the Buffalo News marginalized and often demonized the minority women on the Board and Superintendent Pamela C. Brown and b) the 2014 “Vision Statement” advanced by the majority board members was exclusionary, divisive and proposed a “reform” agenda that threatened to “dismantle” our public schools.

Throughout this period I’ve often asked the question when is enough, enough? Obviously, many of you have answered that question with your vote and the response is, NOW! I believe that this Board will move forward, collaboratively and cohesively to develop a new vision, one that’s inclusive and puts the children in the beginning, the middle and the end of our agenda.

“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

“There is No Power Like the Power of the People”: Thank You Community!

By Paulette Woods

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s the newly elected Board of Education member for the Central District I would like thank the community, all who carried petitions, voted for me, and entrusted me with the responsibility of this position. There is no power like the power of the people! To God be the glory!

Thank you to Legislator Betty Jean Grant, my hardworking campaign manager; Mary Ruth Kaspiak, to my campaign crew Linnette Woods, Daddy Paul Woods, Angel Nicole Gamble, Daysha Witt, Margo , Jeanette Jones, Mama Charlene Miller, Esther, Rebecca , Duane Woods , to PASTOR JOHN YOUNG, Torie Young, Pastor Rivera, Pastor Michael Chapman, Apostle Robert Sanders and my Greater Refuge Temple Family, BTF, Barbara Jones & My POP Temple Family, Bishop Darius Pridgen & my True Bethel ministry family, Rev. Gregory L. Pritchett, Rev. Howard Patton, Rev. Gorgoffy Hord, and so many more churches. To friends and my supporters: Bonnie Bailey Tolbert, Bernie Tolbert, AKA Sisters, Oxford Block Club Family, Champ Eve UNITY, Len Lenihan, Phil Rumore and BTF, Mark Schroeder, Commissioner Brian McLaughlin, Jeff Conrad, my American Legion Jesse Clipper family, Brenda Calhoun, Donald McReynolds, Benay and Johnny Robinson, Fred Pordum, Curtis Jackson, Joseph Castricone, Joan Simmons, Elaine Barthel, Tamell Walker, Mike Darby, former State Commissioner John Johnson, Deborah Pleskow, and to those individuals who publicly endorsed me Mary Ruth Kapsiak, Eva M. Doyle, George K. Arthur, Ted Kirkland, Rev. Eugene Pierce, Charley H. Fisher and the We Are Women Warriors! LET’S MAKE THE CHILDREN’S FUTURE BRIGHTER. It is an honor to serve our children. MY COMMITMENTS AND PRIORITES include: 1) I am committed to restoring the joy in school by enhancing and improving the arts, music and sports programs in our schools; reducing class sizes, providing after school and summer programs, and adding cultural diversity programs, among my priorities.

2) Restoring these programs will give students a reason to work hard so they graduate, knowing they are college or career ready, employable with a trade and a skill. Implementing Restorative Justice techniques will also reduce suspensions so more students graduate.

3)Increasing the number of Career and Technical Schools, Innovative High Schools, and Community Schools with wrap around services including health and mental health services. I will be working with Superintendent Cash to promote this plan for the success of our children.

I will be working with “Say Yes” to provide more afterschool programs, enhance summer enrichment programs, and mentoring program for year round learning for BPS students. I am currently meeting with Board members to ensure that physical education and music remain in the upcoming budget, for July 2016 when I take office. I will be working to ensure that the needs of our Special Education population is being meet. My work has already begun to make the future brighter for our students!

I will be reporting back to the community and asking for your support and input on further improvements to the education of our children.

Become a Foster Grandparent!

Thank You Dr. Cash!

Dear Editor: For the past four years, I have been blessed to be able to be a volunteer for the Catholic Charities Foster Grandparent Program, which allows people age 55 and older who live in Erie County to develop one-on –one relationships with special needs children through tutoring, mentoring and support. Grandparents can volunteer between 15 and 40 hours each week.

This is a great program that allows you to get out of the house and do something meaningful by helping children. You will also attend training classes, receive a small stipend and be eligible for partial transportation and meal reimbursement, as well as volunteer insurance. You can contact the Foster Grandparent Program at 716 896-6388 ext. 216 or 217.

Dear Editor: Recently, the guest on my radio show, “The Truth and Nothing But The Truth So Help Us God,” was Dr. Cash, the Superintendent of Buffalo Public Schools. He shared his vision, expectations, and aspirations for the children of Buffalo Public Schools.

He spoke of his dream, and made it clear it's going to take team work including parents, teachers, students, unions and more – the entire community – to make the dream of a quality first rate education for all of our children to work. I would like to thank Dr. Cash for taking the time to address the community and look forward to having him on the show once again.

-Samuel A. Herbert, Host

dear editor

Morris W. Brown Barely a week has passed since the election. And the new Board won’t take office until July 1st. Yet I anticipate more propaganda from the News. I urge readers to watch the Buffalo News reports. Will they be fair and balanced? If they’re not, call them on it! We cannot be silent and allow journalistic malpractice to continue and to undermine the new Board before we even convene.

Challenger Community News P.O. BOX 474 Buffalo, NY 14209 advertising@thechallengernews.com P : 716 8 81.10 51 F: 716 8 81.10 5 3

READERS ARE LEADERS

• 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.

Suggested readings by Kenneth and Sharon Holley

I

n 1925 Counte Cullen published the poem, “Yet Do I Marvel” with the most quotable last two lines: “Yet do I marvel at this curious thing…

To make a poet Black and bid him sing.”

The month of April has been designated as National Poetry Month since 1996. One of its missions is to “encourage the reading of poems.” Poetry must be read aloud and what a great time it is to read aloud the rhythmic verses that speak to our culture, our heritage and our selves. We offer a few of these poets and their writings to enjoy not just during Poetry Month, but throughout the year!: Young People •Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson. A biography in poems.

•Freedom in Congo Square by Carole Boston Weatherford.

New Orleans landmark.

•We Troubled the Waters by Ntozake Shange.

Poems about the Civil Rights Movement.

•Crossover by Kwame Alexander. Basketball poems Adult •Blessing the Boats: New and Collected Poems 1988-2000

by Lucille Clifton •Groundwork: New and Selected Poems by Haki Madhubuti •New and Collected Poems 1964-2006 by Ishmael Reed •Prince of Kokomo by Laini Mataka •SOS Poems 1961-2013 by Amiri Baraka •Home/Bass by Sterling D. Plumpp •Homegirls and Handgrenades by Sonia Sanchez Any works by Langston Hughes, Nikki Giovanni, Maya Angelou.(Zawadi Books is located at 2460 Main St. 716-903-6740.)

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

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

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Challenger Community News • May 11-17, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT continued meaningful as these tidbits on healthy habits were, the most outstanding document was the letter, from President Obama himself. In three short paragraphs his transformative powers were on display. He highlighted the importance of education, by stating, “As a Nation, we have no higher priority than making sure the doors of opportunity are wide open for you and your generation.” He added, “And as your President, that is a promise I will never stop working to keep.” Jennell shared this significant development with her classmates, teachers and the administration at Dr. Charles R. Drew Science, where she is an honor roll student. The school was proud and celebrated the good news through an announcement on the public address system. In fall of 2016, Jennell will begin her enrollment at the prestigious Frederick Law Olmsted School (PS 64), where she plans to continue excelling academically. She will no doubt be buoyed by the President’s on words to her, wherein he stated: “In the years ahead, always remember that nothing is beyond your reach as long as you are willing to dream big and work hard. If you stay focused on your education, I know there are no limits to what you can achieve.”

President Barack Obama—March 25, 2016 Congrats to Jennell on a job well done!

JOBS

Buffalo Employment and Training Center 77 Goodell St., Buffalo, 856-5627/ Fax 7856-5670 www.workforcebuffalo.org The BETC is here to help with your job searching needs.

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 RFP CITY OF BUFFALO OFFICE OF STRATEGIC PLANNING DIVISION OF REAL ESTATE NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Former Hertel/Delaware Library – 2351 Delaware Avenue Buffalo, NY The Mayor’s Office of Strategic Planning (OSP), Division of Real Estate is soliciting proposals for the sale and redevelopment of the former library located at 2351 Delaware Avenue Buffalo, New York. The former library is a 1 story, commercially zoned site encompassing approximately 18,295 square feet.

Proposals are due no later than Monday June 27, 2016 at 4:00pm. Proposals should include all information specified in the Request for Proposal which is available in the Mayor’s Office of Strategic Planning, Division of Real Estate 905 City Hall Buffalo, NY 14202. The proposal package is also available on the City of Buffalo’s website at: http://city-buffalo.com/Home/ City_Departments/RealEstate/ RequestsForProposals

Advertising Pays

Public Information Meeting Tonawanda Rails to Trail ExtensionCity of Tonawanda Project 5761.02 Erie County/City of Tonawanda public information meeting May 26, 2016, 6pm to 8pm in Community Room of Tonawanda City Hall, 200 Niagara Street, Tonawanda, NY to discuss extension of Tonawanda Rails to Trails pathway to East Niagara Street. Comments due by June 9, 2016 at 5pm EST. Details on Erie County website at: http:// www2.erie.gov/dpw/index. php?q=what039s-new or call 858-2079.

LEGAL NOTICE Bids County Of Erie Request For Qualifications For General A/E & Testing Services Buildings & Highways The County of Erie, Department of Public Works is seeking qualification statements from interested firms to provide General A/E & Testing services for County capital construction projects for 2016. Qualification statements must be received by the Commissioner of Public Works, 95 Franklin Street, Room 1408, Buffalo, New York 14202 by 2:00 pm EST, June 2, 2016. RFQ submission instructions may be found at www.erie.gov/dpw

advertising@thechallengernews.com

LEGAL NOTICE Bids

GED REPLACED BY THE TASC*

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Preparation classes start every week

• No-cost to students • Conveniently located sites across Buffalo • Morning, afternoon, and evening classes available • Distance Learning Including Online Programs (for qualifying students)

For orientation appointments call 716.888.7088 For a complete listing of class sites visit

LEGAL NOTICE Bids

ext. 100 www.UpSkill.org

*The TASC™ (Test Assessing Secondary Completion) has replaced the GED® as the official exam for obtaining a high school equivalency diploma in NYS.

389 Virginia Street • Buffalo, NY 14201

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 Tuesday, June 7, 2016 at 9:00 a.m., proposals will be publicly opened and read aloud for the following three (3) prime contracts: General; Mechanical; and Electrical: PROJECT 0094-014: Air Conditioning and Mechanical Upgrades at P.S. #94 West Hertel Academy, 489 Hertel Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14207.

Beginning Tuesday, May 10, 2016, 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 716-9957777. Owner can assume no responsibility for errors, omissions, or other misinformation obtained via other bid document distribution resources.

A mandatory pre-bid conference will be held at the facility on Thursday, May 26, 2016 at 10:00 a.m., please assemble at the main entrance. The Design Engineer will be present. Eligible bidders are required to attend this walkthrough or another previously arranged and documented site visit with Design Engineer and District personnel.

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, RA, 716-816-3610, and Eric Lindstrom, PE, at Cannon Design 716-774-3414.

Paul McDonnell, AIA Director of Facilities Planning

LEGAL NOTICE Public Hearing LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held in the Rath Building, 6th Floor Resource Room, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY 14202, on Friday, May 20, 2016 at 2:00 p.m., for purpose of adoption of amendments to the Appendices of the Rules for the Classified Civil Service of the County of Erie and the Towns, Villages, Special Districts and School Districts within the County. These amendments deal with the request to include the titles of Household Assistant Long-Term Care Facility and Housekeeping Attendant LongTerm Care Facility from the Erie County Medical Center in the Labor Class of the Classified Civil Service of the County of Erie. A full set of proposed amendments will be available for inspection during business hours (9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.) at the Personnel Department (Room 604), County of Erie, Edward A. Rath County Office Building, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York.

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 Thursday, June 9, 2016, at 11:00 a.m., proposals will be publicly opened and read aloud for the following four (4) prime contracts: General; Electrical; HVAC; Plumbing: PROJECT 0204-027: Science Laboratories & Lavatories Renovation Project and Building Upgrades at P.S. #204 Lafayette High School, 370 Lafayette Ave., Buffalo, NY 14213.

Beginning Monday, May 9, 2016, 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 716-9957777. Owner can assume no responsibility for errors, omissions, or other misinformation obtained via other bid document distribution resources.

A mandatory pre-bid conference will be held at the facility on Friday, May 20, 2016 at 11:00 a.m., please assemble at the main entrance. The Architect will be present. Eligible bidders are required to attend this walkthrough or another previously arranged and documented site visit with Architect and/or District personnel.

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, RA, 716-816-3610, and Manuel Rivera, AIA, HHL Architects, 716885-0743 Paul McDonnell, AIA Director of Facilities Planning

ADVERTISING PAYS

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Sealed bids for Project No. Q1657-C, for Construction Work, Repair/Replace Roof and Masonry, State Armory, 27 Masten Avenue, Buffalo (Erie County), NY, will be received by the Office of General Services (OGS), Design & Construction Group (D&C), Contract Administration, 35th Fl., Corning Tower, Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12242, on behalf of the Division of Military and Naval Affairs, until 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 1, 2016, when they will be publicly opened and read. Each bid must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders and must be accompanied by a certified check, bank check, or bid bond in the amount of $50,800 for C. All successful bidders on a multiple trade project or the successful bidder with a bid over $200,000 on a single trade project, will be required to furnish a Performance Bond and a Labor and Material Bond in the statutory form of public bonds required

by Sections 136 and 137 of the State Finance Law, each for 100% of the amount of the Contract estimated to be between $1,000,000 and $2,000,000 for C. The requirement for Labor and Material and Performance Bonds may be waived on a bid under $200,000 on a single trade project.

Designated staff are Frank Peris and Carl Ruppert in the Bureau of Contract Awards, telephone (518) 474-0203, fax (518) 473-7862 and John Lewyckyj, Deputy Director of Design and Construction telephone (518) 474-0201, fax (518) 486-1650.

The only time prospective bidders will be allowed to visit the job site will be at 10:00 a.m. on May 19, 2016 at Masten State Armory, 27 Masten Avenue, Buffalo, NY. Phone the office of Jeremy Krupski, (716) 8850908 a minimum of 72 hours in advance.

It is the policy of the State and the Office of General Services to encourage meaningful minority business enterprise participation in this project by contractors, subcontractors and suppliers who perform commercially useful functions under the Contract, and all bidders are expected to cooperate in implementing this policy.

The Bidding and Contract Documents for this Project are available on compact disc (CD) only, and may be obtained for an $8.00 deposit per set, plus a $2.00 per set shipping and handling fee. Contractors and other interested parties can order CD’s on-line through a secure web interface available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Please use the following link at the OGS website for ordering and payment instructions: http://www.ogs.ny.gov/bu/dc/ esb/acquirebid.asp.

For questions about purchase of bid documents, please send an e-mail to D&C.Plans@ogs. ny.gov, or call toll free at 1-877647-7526.

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

John D. Lewyckyj, Deputy Director OGS - Design & Construction Group

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Challenger Community News • May 11-17, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

LEGAL NOTICE Bids

LEGAL NOTICE RFP NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS (NOIRROF) May 11, 2016 - Date of publication

New York State Housing Trust

Fund Corporation (HTFC) 38-40 State Street Albany, New York 12207 (518) 486-3379 On or about May 19, 2016, the New York State Housing Trust Fund Corporation (HTFC) will submit a request to the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the release of HOME funds under Title II of the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act (NAHA) of 1990, in accordance with section 288 (42 U.S.C. 12838), to undertake a project known as the 2015 New York State HOME LPA Program. The 2015 HOME LPA Program will use HOME funds from 2011, 2014, and 2015 awards to fund a variety of activities through partnerships with counties, municipalities and non-profit communitybased housing organizations, which are referred to as Local Program Administrators (LPA).

Each LPA works within a specific geographic area – usually a county or municipality. The Program provides funds to acquire, rehabilitate or construct housing or to provide assistance to low- and moderateincome home-buyers and renters.

Funds must be distributed in accordance with needs and priorities identified in the State’s Consolidated Plan.

The proposed activities that are the subject of this Notice are Categorically Excluded under HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58 from National Environmental Policy Act requirements. The specific LPA Programs that are the subject of this Notice do not constitute every LPA Program that is proposed for inclusion within the 2015 New York State HOME LPA Program. A full listing of the 2015 HOME LPA Programs is available at http://www. nyshcr.org/Funding/Awards/.

This is the first tier of review in a 2-tiered process. The specific addresses of homes are not known at this time because the participating property owner identification process is ongoing. Therefore, under 24 CFR Part 58.15 (Tiering) and 24 CFR Part 58.32 (Project Aggregation), HTFC will use a tiered approach and once specific sites are determined, each site will be reviewed in compliance with the instructions established in the Tier 1 Review. No physical work will begin on properties until all levels of environmental review are complete and found to be in compliance. Tier 1 review addresses specific environmental factors for which compliance has been documented, regardless of specific site locations. It prevents repeating the same compliance factors on a Tier 2 site-specific basis, once all participating homeowners are known.

The following 2015 HOME LPA Program will be undertaken in this publishing area. An Environmental Review Record (ERR) that documents the environmental determinations for this Program is on file at http://www.nyshcr.org/Programs/NYSHome/ and the following location: Broadway Fillmore NHS-Home Repair Program, for purposes of assisting 10 low income homeowners to rehabilitate their property up to HTFC rehab standards at selected sites in the Broadway Fillmore neighborhood, City of Buffalo, Erie County. Houses will have an environmental assessment for asbestos, radon, mold & wood eating insects. Lead paint testing will be done but will largely

be confined to areas where work will be performed. We are partnering with the Matt Urban Center for weatherization services, including energy audits and post-construction testing.

BFNHS anticipates there will be some accessibility issues with these homeowners, possibly including new access ramps.

The ERR is available at: Broadway-Fillmore Neighborhood Housing Services, Inc., 780 Fillmore Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14212 care of Stephen Karnath and may be examined or copied weekdays 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. Additional LPA Programs in this publishing area may be the subject of additional public notices. A full listing of the 2015 HOME LPA Programs is available at http:// www.nyshcr.org/Funding/Awards/.

PUBLIC COMMENTS Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to Heather Spitzberg, Esq., Environmental Analysis Unit, NYS Housing Trust Fund Corporation, 38-40 State Street, Albany, New York, 12207 or at eau@nyshcr.org. Please note to which LPA your comment pertains in your correspondence. All comments received by May 18, 2016 will be considered by HTFC prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds.

RELEASE OF FUNDS HTFC certifies to HUD that Ms. Heather Spitzberg, Esq. in her capacity as Certifying Officer consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied.

HUD's approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities, and allows HTFC to use Program funds.

OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS HUD will consider objections to its release of funds and HTFC’s certification received by June 3, 2016 or for a period of fifteen days following its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of HTFC; (b) HTFC has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the project have committed funds or incurred costs not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds

by HUD; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58) and shall be addressed to Director of Community Planning and Development U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development 26 Federal Plaza New York, New York 102780068 Potential objectors should contact HUD to verify the actual last day of the objection period.

Ms. Heather Spitzberg, Esq. Certifying Officer

For Advertising Information email advertising@thechallengernews.com

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS CITY OF NIAGARA FALLS, NEW YORK ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Sealed proposals will be received by the City Engineer or his designee of Niagara Falls, New York, at his office located at 745 Main Street, Room 303, in said City not later than 1:30 P.M., on May 31, 2016, at which time they will be publicly opened and read for the following project: BUFFALO AVENUE REHABILITATION 65th STREET TO LASALLE EXPRESSWAY OFFRAMP PIN 5757.16

in the City of Niagara Falls, N.Y. Each bidder must include with his bid, a certified check or bid bond, payable to the order of the City of Niagara Falls, in the amount of not less than FIVE (5) PERCENT of the price bid, subject to the conditions in the Instructions to Bidders.

The successful bidder will be required to furnish a performance bond and labor and material payment bond, in form and substance, and with sureties approved by the City Corporation Counsel, in the amount of not less than ONE HUNDRED (100) PERCENTUM of the total amount of the accepted proposal.

All proposals must be made on blank forms, which together with other requirements, may be obtained in the Office of the City Engineer.

Contractor is required to complete the Insurance Information Form, Performance and Payment Bond Information Form, and other documentation specified in the Instructions to Bidders, when submitting a proposal.

The City Administrator reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive all informalities.

Copies of the set of bid documents, drawings, and specifications may be obtained from the Office of the City Engineer upon deposit of $50.00 (CHECK ONLY) for each set.

The deposit is not refundable to non-bidders unless they are returned prior to the bid date and time. Bidders requesting a refund must return all plans and specifications, in good condition, within forty-five (45) days after the bid date.

A pre-bid meeting will be held at the OFFICE OF THE CITY ENGINEER, CITY HALL, ROOM 303 at 1:30 P.M. on May 24, 2016.

Robert Buzzelli Civil Engineer III

VEHICLE

AUCTION Vehicle Auction of Richard Gadley vehicle 2004 Ford Explorer XL vin#1FMZU73E94UB78060 May 21 at 9 a.m. at Lark’s Enterprise,726 Sycamore Street.

LEGAL NOTICE Request for Quotes NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS The University District Community Development Association, Inc. (UDCDA) has been awarded a $125,000 grant through New York State Homes and Community Renewal’s (HCR) Buffalo Main Streets Initiative (BMSI). This grant allows us to assist the owner of Parkside Candy, a historic landmark and neighborhood anchor located on Main Street in Buffalo’s University Heights community.

The UDCDA is assembling a list of general and specialized contractors interested in receiving bid opportunities to work with the property owner on building renovations.

Renovation work includes but is not limited to health and safety improvements, remodeling upstairs apartments, running new electrical service, window and door replacement, detailed painting and plaster work in historic commercial space, exterior neon signage, facade repair, and installation of new awnings.

Contractors must be able to perform work in compliance with applicable standards, to provide required insurance, licenses & references.

If you are interested in bidding on this project please visit our website: www.udcda.org/rfq or contacting our Community Development Department at 716832-1010x212. The deadline for submission is May 31, 2016 MWBE and EPA Certified contractors are encouraged to apply. Our agency is required to comply with the Equal Employment Provisions of NY Code Section 312, and all contractors are required to make affirmative efforts to ensure NY State Certified Minority and WomenOwned businesses are afford opportunities.

For Advertising Information email advertising@thechallengernews.com

EM P LOY M EN T Say Yes Director of School-Based Preventive Programming Innovative opportunity to lead school-based preventive programming within the Buffalo Public School system. Serve as a key liaison between Say Yes Buffalo, Erie County, Buffalo Public Schools and community-based organizations. Qualified candidates must possess a Master’s Degree in a Human Services field and a minimum of five years community based experience and three years supervisory experience.

Apply online at www.cfsbny.org Please include cover letter and resume FT MAINTENANCE MECHANIC

Vacant apartment preparation, routine site maintenance, 3 years experience in plumbing, electrical, carpentry and painting. Resumes to nfha@ nfha.org.

LEGAL NOTICE Bids

NFTA Procurement Invitation to Bid

4581 - FINANCING OF CNG BUSES Download Bids from www. nfta.com

RESEARCH ASSISTANT for local downtown office.

Must have strong organizational skills, experience using Microsoft Excel and college degree. FT. EOE. Send resumes by 8/5/16 to komani@ viaeval.com / Fax: 716-3620712. For more info: www.

ViaEvaluation.com HELP WANTED Need Helper to assist with day to day odd jobs & driving. Must have clean drivers license, no pet allergies and be available 4hrs per day. Serious available candidates only. Please contact 874-9128.

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

(716)818-3410.

Until further notice the Waitlist at Mariner Towers Apartments will be closed. We will no longer be accepting applications for the 1,2 or 3 bedroom units.

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Challenger Community News • May 11-17, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

Adult Education Division’s Career Institute to Host 4th Annual Career Fair

NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS

3-WAY

MON 5/2

WED 5/4 THURS 5/5 FRI 5/6 SAT 5/7

TUES 5/3

MID-918 MID-610 MID-606 MID-413

EVE- 355 EVE-454 EVE-985 EVE-926 MID- 8210 EVE- 7147

WIN 4

MID -2174 MID -3514 EVE- 3308 EVE - 5700

MID-9970 EVE-5571

MID-174

EVE-706 MID-5715 EVE- 4620

MID-799

MID-381

EVE-552

EVE-256

MID-5811 EVE- 2880

MID-2727 EVE-3714

The Adult Education Division is hosting a Job/Career Fair that will feature over 30 employers who will be available to discuss job opportunities. Several industries will be represented including banking, healthcare, insurance, call centers, childcare and retail.

The event is open to adult students as well as adult members of the community. The event will take place on Wednesday, May 11th, from 10 AM - 2 PM at the Career Collegiate Institute, 756 St. Lawrence Avenue in North Buffalo.

TAKE 5

18-25-28-31-39 1-5-14-17-18 3-9-14-18-33

17-20-26-32-35 26-27-30-32-35 3-7-12-20-29

LOTTO

SUN 5/1

HOT TIPS

4018

022

16-18-26-44-49-51#8

064

648

Zakiyyah’s Rundown (ZR) 689-955-467-809-074-657-906-671-978-010-743-234-680468-089-902-325-561-635-278-435-780-108-657-562-178930-354-763-469-012-757-689-208-645-785-454-678-612579-905-436-809-675-680-100-535-768-985-324-354-184-

Billy Bye Bye Sez: 865-790-895-333-1954

“Sgt. Hyder’s Hits”

1928-1447-5780-9966-6888

Vibes 903-327-782-187678-890-347-036

“Its In The Stars”

Aquarius -496-235-165-579 Pisces - 056-362-237-694 Cancer - 482-372-895-718 Aries - 561-236-164-469 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 $$$$ THE NUMBER BOOK 189-809-444 886-980-422 322-522-355 800-592-390 394-833-924 127-909-418 927-313-466 124-550-525 583-269-508

GAMMA’S PICKS 093-563-167-096-743-234 4-WayHot Tips

5767-8866-5252-7788-2018-1871-1303

101

7-8-27-28-39

Best Triple- 444 Special Doubles - 778-335-881-883

NUMBER OF THE MONTH

Let go of things you can’t control and allow your thoughts to become more positive. Positive thoughs and this elevated vibe attracts all good things in your in your life.

5-12-18-33-56-57#51

996

515 140

Thursday May 12

Challenger Hits

Midday

918- Quick Money, Luckie Duckie (BX) 610- Number Book (BX) 606- Number Book (BX) 413- Virgo, Luckie Duckie (BX)

Evening

355- Quick Money (STR), ZR (BX) 454- ZR (STR) 985- ZR (STR), Billy Bye Bye, Cancer (BX) 926- Quick Money (BX) 552- Quick Money (BX) 256- ZR (BX) LUCKIE DUCKIE

133-202- 335 -2015-4444-1871-0978

134-431-143

648*123*104

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

3-Way Winning Numbers Last Year

05/20/2015 Evening 05/20/2015 Midday 05/19/2015 Evening 05/19/2015 Midday 05/18/2015 Evening 05/18/2015 Midday 05/17/2015 Evening 05/17/2015 Midday 05/16/2015 Evening 05/16/2015 Midday 05/15/2015 Evening 05/15/2015 Midday 05/14/2015 Evening 05/14/2015 Midday 05/13/2015 Evening 05/13/2015 Midday 05/12/2015 Evening 05/12/2015 Midday 05/11/2015 Evening 05/11/2015 Midday

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

2015

ATTORNEYS

DOG TRAINING

Terrence D. McKelvey Attorney at Law 181 Franklin St. Suite 101 (716) 847-2606

Dogman’s K -9 Obedience Training

Law Office of Daria L. Pratcher, PC “Everything Real Estate” 523 Main Street (716)541-8574

ELECTRICIAN

Attorney FritzGerald Tondreau 1133 Kensington Ave. /1610 Genesee

1-888-400-6811/ 716-222-9119 TondreauLaw.com

AUTO Ben’s Downtown Tire

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

Colston Enterprises 716 E. Ferry (Near Fillmore) (716) 894-3910

CELL PHONES Ansar Cellular Communications & Fragrance Store 1371 Fillmore @ E. Utica (716) 884-2373

BAIL BONDS GIST BAIL BONDS

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

For More Info: advertising@ thechallengernews.com

1963 Fillmore Avenue (716) 807-8163

Empire Electric (716) 634-0330

FLORISTS Maureen’s Flower Market 441 Ellicott St. * 852-4600

HAIR SUPPLY Main Hair & Beauty Supply 3067 Main St. (716) 862-4247

HOME/PROPERTY INSPECTION Majadi Enterprises Inc.

(716) 316-7776

majadienterprise@aol.com

TAILORS Ann Rhod’s Tailoring 3185 Bailey Ave. (716) 838-5633

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES MEREA WORLD Transportation Service City To City State To State Safe & Dependable • Specializing in Round Trip & Over Night Trips Text or call 716 939-8892

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Challenger Community News • May 11-17, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Wednesday May 11

Friday May 13

Public Hearing: 4 p.m., PS #95 Waterfront Elementary School, 95 Fourth St on proposed REACH Academy Charter School, Bishop Michael A. Badger proposed ACE Charter School

National Association for Equal Justice in America 2-Day Conference: Friday May 13, 6-8p.m. & Saturday May 14, noon-3 p.m. Mt. Aaron Baptist Church, 540 Genesee St. ..

Contractors Meet & Greet, MWBE Information & Networking Mixer: 6 p.m., ECC North, Wehrle Dr. & Element Rd.; 768-0952 BPS Adult Education Division Job/ Career Fair: Career Collegiate Institute, 756 St. Lawrence Avenue, 10 AM - 2 PM. Call (716) 888-7088 ext 100.

Khametic Ascendants: 9-10 a.m. & 12:30 a.m. (after midnight), Channel 20.

The Durham Central City Baby Café: every Wed. and Thurs. 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. 200 E. Eagle. Dinner free! 885-6348.

Line Dance Fitness For Seniors: Hustle For Health at the Gloria J Parks Community Center 3242 Main St 11am - 12pm age 50+ FREE Instructor Phyllis Caver 716 832 – 1010 www.HustleForHealth.com Thursday May 12 Important Community Forum for Fruitbelt Residents: Rev. Bennett W. Smith Sr. Family Life Center, 833 Michigan Ave., 6 p.m. 8560029 ext. 229 for more info.

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Meeting: St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church, 4007 Main St., Amherst, 7:00 p.m. 30.

(716) 226-6264

"A Weekend of Peaceprints" Musical-Poetic Tribute, to Sister Karen Klimczak: 7:30: PM; SS. ColumbaBrigid Church, 75 Hickory Street.

Juneteenth Festival of Buffalo Inc. “Harlem Nights Gimme That Swing 2016!” 5-11 PM, Statler City Ball Room, 107 Delaware Ave. Admission $75. For info: at marketingrezultz@gmail.com or via cell (716) 605-4455.

Saturday May 14 Studio J’s 3rd Dance Recital, : 2 p.m., Tralf Music Hall. Tickets $15 advance, $20 at door; Walmart, the Tralf box office or www.ticketmaster.com (716) 83-DANCE Day Two of The National Association for Equal Justice in America (See May 13).

The Buffalo Chapter of The National Caucus Center on Black Aged, Inc. Rainbow Tea & Senior Celebration: 2-6 p.m., Frederick Douglas Center, 234 Jefferson; $10.

For more info 716-725-6158.

The National Black MBA Association Soul Bowl, 70s, 80s Dance Party: 8 PM – 1 AM Kerns Avenue Bowling Center, 163 Kerns Avenue,. $20 per person .Email benjamin.walden@ymail.com.

PEACE!

Sunday, May 15 Muhammad School of Music Recital Series, “Beethoven & Ballerina” 3 p.m., Aloma D. Johnson Charter School, 2408 Main Street; $20 advance, $25 @ door; (716)570-5064 or 881-5088.

The Ed Parson, Sr. Sunday Morning Memorial Softball League Season Opener: 11 AM at Parson Field on Fillmore Avenue.

Evangelism Ministry Bowling Fellowship: Kenmore Lanes 1691 Kenmore Ave. RSVP by May 12; 3p.m. Info 895-8222.

Monday, May 16 Aloma D. Johnson Charter School Board of Trustees Open Meeting: 6 p.m.,15 Jewett Parkway. Info contact (716) 856-4390.

Wednesday May 18 Meeting of the Board of the Westminster Community Charter School: 3p.m. M&T Bank, One M&T Plaza - 19th Floor.

Khametic Ascendants: 9-10 a.m. & 12:30 a.m. (after midnight), Channel 20.

The Durham Central City Baby Café: every Wed. and Thurs. 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. 200 E. Eagle. Dinner free! 885-6348.

Line Dance Fitness For Seniors: Hustle For Health at the Gloria J Parks Community Center 3242 Main St 11am - 12pm age 50+ FREE Instructor Phyllis Caver 716 832 -1010 www.HustleForHealth. com

Artist Talk: Mark Bradford

Tuesday, May 24, 2016 PS 192 Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Arts Free Talk 6–7 pm Free Community Reception 7–8 pm FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Mark Bradford is one of his generation’s most celebrated artists and the cofounder of Art + Practice, an arts and education foundation based in Leimert Park, Los Angeles.

Bradford’s work is the subject of an exhibition at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, Shade: Clyfford Still / Mark Bradford, which has a free public opening on Wednesday, May 25, from 7 to 9 pm. The artist will give a free talk at 7:15 pm.

Albright-Knox Art Gallery

1285 Elmwood Avenue Buffalo, New York 14222-1096 albrightknox.org

Shade: Clyfford Still / Mark Bradford has been made possible through the generosity of the First Niagara Foundation, Mr. and Mrs. Charles W. Banta, Jay Goldman, Hauser & Wirth Inc., Deborah Ronnen, and Amy and Harris Schwalb.

The First Niagara Foundation is proud to serve as the official Education Sponsor of this exhibition. Their sponsorship will underwrite free admission to the exhibition for all K–12 students in Erie County during the months of July and August.

Education programming for Shade: Clyfford Still / Mark Bradford is presented in partnership with the City of Buffalo.

Image: Mark Bradford (American, born 1961). Photograph courtesy the artist.

Challenger Community News • May 11-17, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

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