Challenger Community News November 28, 2018

SERVING BUFFALO, ROCHESTER, NIAGARA FALLS AND SURROUNDING AREAS

November 28, 2018 | FREE |

INSIDE ROCHESTER

School Board Commissioner LeBron:“ I will not allow my words to be twisted” Page 2

NATIONAL

Will Holton

Minister Farrakhan Denies ‘Death to America’ Chant Page 4

B U F FA L O ’ S P R E M I E R S A X O P H O N I S T

“The First Day of Christmas Holiday Smooth Jazz Concert” Marks a Decade of Showcasing Extraordinary Local Talent Page 9

ACHIEVER

Buffalo Native Dr. Gayles is Founder of Innovative New Texas Middle School Page 7

VOICES Betty Jean Grant: “Free But Not Free, A Call for Justice for the Buffalo 3!” Page 11

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

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INSIDE ROCHESTER

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 28, 2018

School Board Commissioner Beatriz LeBron

At The Baobab...

728 University Ave. 585-563-2145

Ujamaa Marketplace

When: First Saturday of every month, 1-5 p.m.

Ujamaa Marketplace is a cooperative of Afrikan centered businesses. facebokk.com/ baobabculturalcenter Baobab Cultural Center 728 University Ave. phone 563-2145 UP COMING EVENTS African World History Class with Dr. Kiah E. Nyame November 29th - Class 5, The Struggle For Mother Africa (Under Attack for its land and natural riches) December 6th - Class 6, The African presence in Early India, Early Asia, Early Europe, and Early Americas. (***THERE WILL BE A FEE FOR THIS 10 WEEK SERIES, $7.00 FOR EACH CLASS OR $50.00 FOR THE ENTIRE 10 WEEKS)

“ I will not allow my words to be twisted or distorted…”

The Rochester school board has begun the search to replace Superintendent Barbara Deane-Williams who will be leaving the district at the end of January, ending her tenure six months before her contract runs out. Rochester School Board Commissioner Beatriz LeBron released the following statement to clarify her position in support of transparency in the selection process.

Local School Board Commissioners Among Highest Paid A blistering assessment of the Rochester City School District by a state-appointed watchdog revealed that of the roughly 700 school boards in the state, only a handful pay their elected representatives, and the rate of pay in Rochester tops the list .

•Six of the seven members on the Rochester Board of Education are paid $27,033, according to the district’s budget. The seventh, President Van White, takes a salary of $34,758.

•In comparison, school board members in Buffalo are paid $5,000 apiece. In Syracuse, board members get $7,500.

•The school board in Yonkers voted last year to pay its president a retroactive $15,000 stipend.

•In NYC in 2002, board members were stripped of their $15,000 pay when public schools fell under mayoral control.

“The minutes of the November 1, 2018 Special Meeting include the Board’s discussion regarding selecting an executive search firm to assist with recruiting and screening candidates for superintendent of the Rochester City School District. These meeting minutes contain the following statement: “Commissioner LeBron suggested that the Board proceed with a closed process until finalists are determined.”

“I want to clarify specifically what I meant, as I will not allow my words to be twisted or distorted to support those who are part Beatriz LeBron of the dysfunction.

“It is my intent to advocate for the Board to have the most open and transparent search process possible. With that, there has to be a level of anonymity and respect for those who apply.

“I hope that if the Board selects a search firm, the Board will require the firm to engage in a comprehensive community engagement process to develop a candidate profile that is reflective of the core educational values of the Board and the community. Following the development of the candidate profile, I will support the Board’s efforts to vet qualified candidates and present the finalists to the community.

“I will advocate with my fellow commissioners to conduct a public interview process that includes students, parents, community members, and staff. This interview process is to include a method for capturing feedback from stakeholders that the Board can use in making their final decision.

“I take the superintendent search process very seriously. As a parent for over 15 years in this District, I understand the frustration Continued Page 10

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Application due: December 31, 2018

Learn more at our 911 OPEN HOUSEs:

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APPLICATION DEADLINE: 12/14/18 EXAM DATE: 2/2/19

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 28, 2018

AREA BRIEFS Umoja Inc. “Convening of the Elders: The Master Class 2018”

William Y. Cooper

Art for Artists Holiday Auction The Art for Artists Holiday Auction will be held Saturday, December 1 from 6:309:30 p.m. at the Unboxed Art Sanctuary @ Outside the Box, 1272 Delaware Avenue (in the carriage house). The event, a benefit for the African American Cultural Center, is $25 per person. Tickets are available online at https:// artforartistsholidayauction. eventbrite.com or by calling 716.445.5122, unboxedink@ gmail.com. Remember, “original art is a legacy gift!”

Umoja Inc. presents the annual “Convening of the Elders: The Master Class 2018” hosted by Samuel L. Radford III. It will be 1,071 years of wisdom held on Saturday, December 1, at the Alphonso “Rafi” Green Masten Resource Center, 1423 Fillmore Ave.. Brunch will be served at 12 noon, spoken word at 1p.m. Master presenters include L. Nathan Hare- 68, Karima Amin-70, Baba Eng66, Viola Hill-100, Art Eve86, Baba Akil-82, Bill Peoples-78, Patricia Elliott-50, Sabu Adeyola-71, Eva Doyle-72, Charley Fisher-64, Roger Blackwell-86, Lorna Hill-65, Brenda McDuffie-63, Sam Radford-51. “Masters” are those who have simply started to see the difference in what they have learned and yet to understand….” For more information contact Bro. Sam Radford 716-578-3571 or Bro. Bill Peoples 716-5336283. https://www.facebook. com?ConveningOfTheElders

Moot Senior Center Completes $500,000 Renovation

NOMINATED: Neal Mack Jr. has been nominated for the position of KenFeild At Large representative 2018. If elected he will be the first epileptic to take this position in this office. He's asking residents to help make this historical day come true !

Congratulations to the Moot Center on reopening after its $500,000 renovation. The result: the center is now handicapped accessible, all the bathrooms have been redone and a shower room added, and laundry space provided for senior citizens. About 500 seniors use the center yearly administrators said.

The renovation was funded through a $1 million federal grant the Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers obtained for work at Moot and at the Neighborhood House, with about half of the money going to each facility.

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Notice to Sue Filed in Police Shooting Death of Rafael Rivera

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t has been reported that Denice Rivera of Niagara Falls, plans to file a wrongful death lawsuit over the fatal police shooting of her son Rafael. No monetary amount has been set.

Rafael Rivera was running away from police, fell, down, got back up and continued to run when he was shot in the back and side by authorities on September 12 around 3 a.m. on Buffalo’s West side according to reports. Rafael, 32, died.

“The city’s position is that he was carrying a firearm, and he was a threat to society,” Mrs. Rivera’s attorney Steven M. Cohen told the Buffalo News. “But it’s clear there was no imminent danger.”

In a related report, the News revealed in a Nov. 26 story that positions on the Commission on Citizens’ Rights, the oversight panel that is supposed to monitor police interactions with the community, has been without a director for a year. Fillmore District Councilmember David A. Franczyk initially raised the issue in January. He recently called the Brown administration’s failure to fill the $86,427 position a “waste of money” and a disservice to citizens who needed help.

Victory for the Fruit Belt Community Land Trust!

OPEN BUFFALO NEWS -- As a member of Grounded Solutions Network, the Fruit Belt Community Land Trust (FBCLT) traveled to Pittsburgh recently to participate in their annual Intersections conference. FBCLT board member India Walton presented in a session entitled “Getting to Scale: Strategies for Making Lasting Affordability the New Norm.” She told the history of the Fruit Belt neighborhood and how the collaboration between community-based organizations and resident leaders have produced innovative policy solutions like the moratorium on the sale of City-owned lots and a burgeoning community controlled economy. Her best practice for attendees was simple: Small is all. Neighborhoods are at scale.

Finally, on the last day of the conference, the FBCLT was invited, as one of 4 finalists, to participate in the fourth annual IGNITE! Community Pitch Fest. The finalists from across the country, representing diverse cities and neighborhoods, gave three-minute presentations on transformative policies, wins, and game changers.

Founding board member Annette Lott represented the FBCLT during the Pitch Fest, telling the story of her family and their connection to the Fruit Belt and the importance of organizing against speculation and displacement in the name of community. When the votes were counted, it was the FBCLT who received the most votes and the coveted “Voters Choice” award!

The board of directors received a standing ovation for their efforts and an emotional Dennice Barr gave an acceptance speech that undergirds the truth for many low-income residents and communities of color, saying, “For us, this is life. Our city government didn’t have a plan for us, meaning they had a plan for us not to be in our community, but we are still here. You don’t know how much this recognition means to us. Thank you.”

The Fruit Belt Community Land Trust recently celebrated the transfer of the first 4 City-owned lots into the community’s control.

Services Held for Ray Smith

R

ay Smith, well regarded community worker, educator, thespian and a founding member of The Circle Brotherhood Association, made his transition on November 20. He was 90 years young.

Raymond Alvin Smith, Sr. was born May 8, 1928, to the late Olivia Byrd Smith and Raymond Duval Smith of Niagara Falls, New York. He graduated from Niagara Falls High School and earned his Bachelor’s and Juris Doctor degree from the University of Buffalo. He is a veteran of the United States Army, former Executive Director of the East Buffalo Community Development Center (CDC), former probation officer and retired educator.The Circle Brotherhood Association, is a group of African American men “practicing and dedicated to the quality of life, successful manhood and parenting, economic growth and development and the pursuit of excellence and spiritual development.”

Ray had been living in Birmingham, Alabama for the past three (3) years prior to his passing.

He leaves his wife Juanita to mourn and his four children: Raejeana Smith Coates (Leroy,Sr.) of Birmingham, AL; Roderick Smith of Buffalo, NY; Raymond Smith, Jr. of Youngtown, AZ; and was proceeded in death by his eldest son Reginald Smith. He has seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

As a public servant, he took a lot of pride in serving his community and teaching. He spent his spare time sharing his talents in the performing arts. He enjoyed storytelling, playing guitar and entertaining as an actor and director at local theaters in Buffalo. He was funny, witty and the life of the party; and, enjoyed reminiscing and sharing memories of his childhood in Niagara Falls.

He was an avid reader and author of the book, The Color of Hope.

Graveside services were held November 23 at the Alabama National Cemetery, Montevallo, Alabama.

Aaron Albert Mossell

The Black Man Who Desegregated Lockport Schools 78 Aaron Albert Mossell is credited with forcing desegregation of Lockport, New York schools in 1876, some 78 years before the Supreme Court ordered national desegreation of this nation’s schoos.

His actions were ultimately responsible for the closing of a one room school house for "colored" children in Lockport.

A historical marker commemorating Mossell for his desegregation efforts was unveiled last week (Nov. 20).

The sign is posed near the Erie Canal in Josephine Carveth Packer Park,next to the Exchange Street lift bridge.

Lockport is about a half-hour drive from Buffalo.

Mossell, a Baltimore native and the son of a freed slave, settled in Lockport during the 1860s. At the time, Lockport was known for its sympathy to African-Americans and its role in the Underground Railroad.

Mossell and his family moved into a house on High Street, across the street from the school for whites. Rather than send his children to the school for Black children, which was several miles away, he pushed the Lockport school board to desegregate.

(The High Street school was also built with bricks from Mossell's successful brickContinued Page 4

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NATIONAL + WORLD

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 28, 2018

GET AHEAD

Let us help you earn your High School Equivalency Diploma (formerly GED )

Kristine E. Guillaume Minister Louis Farrakhan

Minister Farrakhan Denies 'Death To America' Chant As He Rips U.S. Foreign Policy In Iran Nation Of Islam Leader Compares Trump To Satan, Slams Reimposed Sanctions Minister Louis Farrakhan described as “wrong and shameful” international media reports that he led anti-American and anti-Israel chants earlier this month during his ongoing solidarity tour of Iran, which was timed to the re-imposing of U.S. economic sanctions as the Trump administration moves to exit the 2015 nuclear deal brokered by President Barack Obama.

“I never led a chant that called for the death of America or Israel, contrary to misreporting in U.S., British and Jewish publications and the intentional, malicious and false reinterpretation of my words,” said Mr. Farrakhan in a press statement.

Minister Farrakhan drew more headlines by comparing President Trump to Satan and warning him not to “pull the trigger of war in the Middle East at the insistence of Israel.”

The Christians say that Satan is a liar, and every day they keep a count of Trump’s lies,” Mr. Farrakhan said .

“I asked a question about how to pronounce the chant in Farsi during my meeting with Iranian students and an examination of the video shows just that,” said Mr. Farrakhan. “My point was to engage students in a talk about what gives a nation perpetuity versus that which undermines and destroys a nation.”

Minister Farrakhan also blasted the sanctions as “unjust,” and warned the crowd not to trust the U.S. government.

“That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t communicate with America, but you should know who you’re communicating with,” Mr. Farrakhan said. “You’re communicating with those who make promises that they never intend to keep.”

In his press statement Farrakhan insisted that “I am not and have never been an enemy to America, nor the people of America.”

“However, I love America enough to speak unpleasant truths that are in the best interests of an erring nation that perhaps she may change her conduct and course,” he said.

Louis Farrakhan, 85, arrived in Iran over to celebrate the 39th anniversary of the takeover the American embassy in Tehran during the Islamic Revolution of 1979.

Black Woman Will Lead The Harvard Crimson Newspaper For First Time Since 1873 Writers and editors at The Harvard Crimson have gone on to be presidents, tech billionaires, and news media bosses but what the newspaper had in power, it lacked in diversity.

Now Kristine E. Guillaume will lead The Crimson’s “146th guard,” making her the third Black president and first Black woman to helm the organization since its founding in 1873.

Ms. Guillaume, a junior majoring in literature, history and African-American studies, was born to a Chinese mother and Haitian father, both physicians, Ms. Guillaume, 20, said she took an interest in journalism while growing up in Queens.

BLACK HISTORY continued making business on Walnut Street employing laborers of all races and providing bricks for local schools and homes, his African Methodist Episcopal church, and eventually a hotel which he himself owned.

After five years, the Mossell family's efforts finally paid off. The Lockport school board allowed the Mossell children to attend the previously whites-only school in 1876 — some 78 years before Brown vs. the Board of Education desegregated schools

across the nation.

The Mossells moved into the Trowbridge Street house in 1878, and remained there until 1905, according to the Niagara County Historian's Office.

Mossell has since become a prominent local figure, particularly for the city's African-American community.

Jacqueline Gibson, historian of the First African Methodist Episcopal Church, said she was encouraged by the effort to protect Mossell's legacy.

First A.M.E. Church was built with Mossell's bricks, which the church has become widely known for.

For FREE Call for an appointment 716.888.7088 ext. 100

All WNYers Welcome More information on

Buffalo Public Schools Adult Education Division programs available at:

www.UpSkill.org or (716) 888-7088 ext. 100

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 28, 2018

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in both men and women and the leading cause of cancer death. More people die from lung cancer than from all other major cancers combined. Currently, African-American men have the highest rate of new lung cancer cases and lung cancer death.

One reason that lung cancer is so deadly is because most people already have a late stage of the disease at their time of diagnosis, when treatment is less effective and options are more limited. Lung cancer screening helps detect cancer at an earlier stage, which can save your life.

The Lung Cancer Screening Program at Roswell Park offers low-dose chest computed tomography (LDCT), a type of spiral CT scan that detects early cancers better than an x-ray. You should consider having this screening if you have any of the following risk factors for lung cancer: • A history of cancer of the lung, esophagus, head or neck • Age 55 to 79, with at least 30 pack-years of smoking, and smoked in the past 15 years. (To calculate your “pack-years”, multiply the number of packs you smoke (or used to smoke) a day by number of years you smoked).

Other risk factors for lung cancer include: • Asbestos-related lung disease or pulmonary asbestosis • History of emphysema • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease • Family history of lung cancer (parent, sibling or child) Lung cancer typically grows subtly for years without causing any symptoms. However, you should tell your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms: • Chest pain or discomfort • Persistent cough • Trouble breathing or wheezing • Blood in sputum (phlegm or mucus coughed up) • Hoarseness • Loss of appetite/unexplained weight loss • Fatigue • Swelling of the face and/or neck Quitting smoking remains the single most effective way you can reduce your lung cancer risk. At Roswell Park, we are committed to offering a wide range of high-quality resources and proven effective techniques to help smokers quit.

The NYS Smoker’s Quitline is headquartered on Roswell Park’s campus and provides innovative tobacco cessation interventions that help tobacco users break their addiction to nicotine.

Coaching, stop-smoking medications, and information or referrals to additional resources are also offered. For more information, please call the NYS Smoker’s Quitline at 1-866-NYQUITS (1-866-697-8487) or visit www.nysmokefree.com

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HEALTH MATTERS

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Herbal Teas for Health and Healing

he origins of herbal tea date back to Ancient Africa (Egypt) and Ancient China, used for thousands of years for its great taste and medicinal properties. There are many different herbal teas you can drink, all with varying tastes and benefits. These benefits can range from treating colds, improving digestion, boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation and anti-aging relieving stress and anxiety, lowering blood pressure and supporting great skin health.

Here is a list of some of the best teas for specific health benefits.

1. Chamomile tea—relaxes mind and soul.

Chamomile tea is a great relaxing herbal tea used to calm the soul and mind. Chamomile tea is also anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal and can improve digestion, irritable bowel disease and colitis.

2. Ginger Tea—improves immune system and reduces digestive disorder and nausea.

Ginger tea made from the roots of ginger is an effective herbal tea for treating motion sickness and nausea. This great antiinflammatory herb also improves digestion and helps to reduce the pain of arthritis, joints and muscles. The powerful antioxidant in ginger tea is great for reducing stress and cleansing chemicals and free radicals accumulated on our bodies. Ginger is also a great herb for fighting cold and reducing menstrual cramps.

3. Green Rooibos Tea (with lemon grass)—high in antioxidants and can fight cancer and improve vascular health.

Green Rooibos Tea originally grown in South Africa is known for its two powerful antioxidants called aspalathin and nothofagin. Green Rooibos Tea is naturally grown caffeine free tea and the powerful antioxidants in Rooibos Tea can fight free radicals and cancer cells. The powerful antioxidants in Rooibos Tea known as Chysoeriol can improve vascular health by enhancing circulation and lowering cholesterol and blood pressure.

4. Valerian Tea—helps to improve sleeplessness and stress.

Valerian is a great herb for improving our common side effects of the modern life style called “insomnia and stress.” Valerian Tea can also help neurological disorder, gastrointestinal problems,ADHD and seizures and it’s better to drink valerian tea before bedtime.

5. Echinacea Tea—helps to treat colds, flues and common infections.

The active substance in echinacea tea helps to boost the immune system and fight infections. Echinacea Tea is great for improving colds and

flues, nasal congestion and infections such as skin, eat and urinary tracts infections. Echinacea Tea is not recommended during pregnancy.

6. Peppermint Tea— helps to improve digestion and relieve irritable bowel syndrome.

Peppermint is a nutritious herb that can help indigestion and calm stomach disorders. Peppermint tea can also sooth stomach muscles and intestine and improve the inflammatory bowel disease. The powerful phytonutrient in peppermint can also reduce the growth of cancer cells in liver and pancreas.

7. Dandelion Tea – Great for detox and improves digestion and liver function The health benefit of dandelion has been known for centuries and Persians were the first to discover the great medicinal properties of dandelion. For centuries, dandelion has been used to improve liver function, digestion and expel kidney stones. The active phytonutrient in dandelion can also help to promote weight loss and detox the body from accumulation of toxins and free radicals.

8. Passion flower Tea—helps insomnia and anxiety The leaves of the medicinal passionflower plant have active compounds known as flavonoids and alkaloids. Like chamomile, valerian root and lavender, this great medicinal herb can help sleeping problems and combat stress and anxiety. According to a study by University of Maryland Medical Center, passionflower was as effective as the drug oxazepam (Serax) for treating anxiety symptoms. Another 2001 study, published by the “Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics” indicates that passionflower is as effective as the drug “clonidine” for treating the withdrawal symptoms in people such as anxiety and stress.

The Office of Community Outreach and Engagement at Roswell is dedicated to serving the underserved and minority communities by providing evidence-based education programs on the topics of lung cancer and decreasing cancer risk.

We have programs that address lung cancer risk and tobacco use in the African-American, Hispanic/Latino, Native American and rural populations.

We also have programming geared toward youth, as smoking rates and the use of smokeless tobacco products (e-cigarettes and vaping) are on the rise.

The Office of Community Outreach and Engagement has trained Tobacco Treatment Specialists that can work with your community group to offer a smoking cessation program as well If you would like to schedule a program visit to your organization, please call Nikia Clark, Health Education Specialist, at (716) 845-4888 or email Nikia.Clark@roswellpark.org.

YOUR HEALTH IS YOUR WEALTH

Kunle Odunsi, MD, PhD, FRCOG, FACOG

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FAITH & FAMILY

Evangelistic Temple to Celebrate Pastor George W. Dubois 32nd Pastoral Anniversary and 65th Birthday!

The community, friends and former members are invited to worship with The Evangelistic Temple and Community Church on December 9 in celebration of Pastor George W. Dubois 32nd Pastoral Anniversary and his 65th birthday. The Evangelistic Temple is located at 92 Hedley Place (between Jefferson Avenue and Meech Street).

Special guests will be the congregation from Jordan Grove Baptist Church, the Pastor’s former church home. Starting the day at 9:30 will be R.I.S.E. Service (Religious Instruction on Sunday for Everyone) with guest teacher James L. Spencer.

Morning service will begin promptly at 10:45 with guest speaker C. C. Co, Pastor of Jordan Grove.

Immediately following morning service there will be fellowship with guests in the Lewis Holley Fellowship Hall. If you have any questions or require additional information, please call the church at 882-1432.

We would like to take this opportunity to wish all a safe and joyful Christmas Holiday.

We’ve come this far by faith, leaning on the LORD. Trusting in His Holy Word, He never failed me yet!

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 28, 2018

ST. JOHN FRUIT BELT COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION HONORS LUNCHEON The community is invited to attend the Fruit Belt Community Development Corporations HONORS LUNCHEON which will be held on Saturday December 8 at 1:00 p.m. at the Grand Hotel 120 Church St. Buffalo, New York.

The St. John Fruit Belt Community Development Corporation has completely and successfully transformed the Fruit Belt Community into a world class community. This transformation is the Comprehensive Urban Development Model which has gained national and international attention through the Progressive National Baptist Convention.

The event will recognize and honor forty-three individuals whom faithfully supported the St. John Fruit Belt Community Development Corp. project. Honorees are, Frank Mesiah, Hon. Chris Collins, Lynette Copland Esq. Otis Cowart, Hon. Andrew Cuomo, Father Drilling, Arthur O. Eve, William Finn, Patrick Flynn, Dottie Gallagher, Andy Garcia, Robert Gioia, Hodgson Russ Attorneys at Law, John Hurley, Rene Jones, Ronald Kru-

kowski, Robbie Lattimore, Essentino Lewis Sr., Kenneth Macur, Brenda McDuffie, Shirley Mullen, Janet Meiselman, Gary Olson, Hon. Mark Poloncarz, Dr. Henry Taylor, Phil Rumore, Sundra Ryce, Demone Smith, Dr. Satish Triphathi, YMCA, Marsha Henderson, Hon. Crystal People-Stokes, Karla Gadley, Hon. Kristen Gillibrand, Judge James McCloud, John Johnson, Brenda Calhoun, Hon. Christopher Jacobs, Robert Kresse, William Yokley, Joseph Merritt, Elnora Grice, Todd Beckham and David Rutecki.

Rev. Dr. Timothy Stewart President of the Progressive National Baptist Convention, Inc. and Pastor of the Bethel Baptist Church, Nassau Bahamas will be the Key note speaker. Overseer Michael Chapman is the President and CEO of the St. John Fruit Belt Community Development Corporation. Dawna Jones is the luncheon event Chairperson. For tickets and information call 716 -852-4504.

SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH HOLIDAY BAZAAR Second Baptist Church Women’s Ministry presents their Annual Holiday Bazaar on Saturday, December 1 from 12 noon to 4 p.m. at The AJ Phillips Fellowship Hall, 18 Church St., Lackawanna.

Vendors will be offering a full array of unique gifts to help you find that “special” selection for the holidays.

For more information contact Mrs. Sonja Melvin, Ministry Chairperson, at 716-646-1875 or Second Baptist Church Office at 716-

826-4940. Rev. Mark E. Blue is pastor.

Hallelujah, What A Savior “Hallelujah, What A Savior!” will be performed Saturday, December 1, at 4p.m. at Calvary C.M.E Church, 1007 Ellicott St., featuring guest soloists Sis. Darcel Blue, Sis. Alaina Cottrell and Bro. Mitchell McCleod. The event is being sponsored by the adult choir. Rev. Brandon K. Baum is pastor.

FAITH & FAMILY

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 28, 2018

Legislator Baskin Announces HEAP Outreach Sessions in 2nd District Erie County Legislator & Majority Leader April N.M. Baskin is announcing that several HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program) outreach sessions for the second legislative district will be held.

The first outreach session will be held at the Delavan Grider Community Center, 877 E. Delavan in Buffalo on Thursday, November 29 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

The second outreach session will be held on Wednesday, December 19, 2018 in Buffalo at the Community Health Center, 34 Benwood Ave from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Additionally, there will be another outreach session on Thursday, January 31, 2019 at the National Grid Utility Expo held at Our Lady of Hope Church, 248 Lafayette in Buffalo from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

HEAP is a federally funded program to assist Erie County Residents with their heating bills.

The HEAP outreach will be administered by the Erie County Departments of Social Services and Senior Services and is open to all income eligible households. For more information, contact the HEAP Hotline at 858-7644 or visit: www.erie.gov/ depts/socialservices/heap.asp and www.mybenefits.nygov.

Erie County HEAP and Emergency Services department has re-located from 478 Main - 1st floor to 460 Main St, second floor, effective October 15, 2018. For regular benefit assistance, customers can request an application be mailed to them by calling the application request line at 858-1969.

Interviews will be conducted on a first-come, first-served basis. All prospective clientele are welcome to apply for HEAP assistance at outreach sites, regardless of age or disability.

Emergency Heap Applicants must have a final disconnection notice. General HEAP applicants are required to bring the following documentation to the session: -One (1) form of identification for all household members (Birth Certificates, License, Social Security Card) -Proof of income received within the last 30 days for all household members (Pay Stubs, Social Security or Pension Award letters, Proof of Child Support, Rental Income, Unemployment Benefits, Worker’s Compensation, Etc.) -Current heat and electric bills including current shut off or disconnect notices, if applicable If an applicant is missing information, they may be allowed to mail the information and complete the application process. For more information or assistance, please contact Nicole at 8951849 or Nicole.Daniels@erie.gov

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Buffalo Native Dr. Michael Gayles

Founder’s Passion Sparks Direction For New Ignite Middle School

W

hile enrolled in medical school and doing night rounds at a hospital, Michael Gayles came to a life-changing decision: he would follow his dream of becoming an educator.

Dr. Gayles was born and raised in Buffalo, NY. He attended Buffalo public schools and in 1991 was valedictorian of the graduating class at Buffalo Traditional High School, now named Performing Arts.

After graduating from medical school, Gayles went on to serve as a teacher at North Dallas High School and, several years later, as an assistant principal at T.W. Browne Middle School. Today, Gayles is helping open and serving as principal at IGNITE Middle School, the new Dallas ISO Personalized Learning transformation campus which opened in August, 2018.

For Gayles, his goal for IGNITE Middle School is simple: help students envision their best possible life, and set them on the path toward making that life a reality.

"Growing up I didn't have anyone who helped me think about what I was passionate about or possible career paths I could pursue," Gayles said.

"What I'm most excited about is how Ignite Middle School

educators the chance to create high-quality, best-fit options for Dallas ISO students to realize their full academic potential.

Dr. Michael K.Gayles is the youngest of the six children of Edward and Doris Gayles and

Dr. Gayles

will help students discover their passions at an early age." IGNITE Middle School is seeing tremendous interest: more than 700 incoming sixth-graders applied for what was originally 150 seats. Due to the high interest, the campus increased its inaugural class to 230 students.

IGNITE Middle School is a Personalized Learning campus that will provide individualized instruction, not only based on each student's academic needs, but also on their interests and goals. The students will take field trips to high schools, colleges and workplaces to help them better envision their future.

"The most important resource in a child's educational life is their own potential. If we can ignite that potential, they will be unstoppable," Gayles said. "Ignite is dedicated to helping students discover their super powers."

IGNITE Middle School is opening thanks to the Office of Transformation and Innovation' Public School Choice Competitive Proposal Process. The process gives

he is the husband of Cheryl Hunter Gayles. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University Of Notre Dame with a Bachelor's Degree in Science. He then went on to earn an M.D. from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.

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Entertainment

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 28, 2018

ON STAGE August Wilson's King Hedley II is on stage at the

Robeson Theatre now thru Dec. 2 at the Paul Robeson Theatre inside the African American Cultural Center 350 Masten Ave. Directed by Ed Smith, 884-2013 or www.aaccbuffalo.

SHE'S BACK! Buffalo’s Own, Foxie Brown and The Blues Boys, will be performing at the Broadway Market, 999 Broadway, on Saturday, December 1 from 12 noon to 3 p.m. The cost is free. There will be free gifts from Foxie See you there!.

*Mike Epps Comedy Showdown featuring Lavell Crawford, Earthquake, DC Young Fly, Chico Bean and Karlous Miller on Saturday, December 1, 8 p.m., at Blue Cross Arena, Rochester. Tickets available at the box office, ticketmaster. com or 1-800-745-3000

*Marsha & Friends featuring Marsha McWilson in concert on December 1, from 1-3 p.m. at What’s the Point Ministries, 409 Plain St., Lewiston NY. 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. For info *The First Day of Christ- whatsthepointministries.com mas Holiday Smooth Jazz or 716-246-2199.

Concert featuring Will Holton, Tim Bowman, Carl- *The Albright Famton Wilcox, Brian Freeman, ily Christmas Tour featuring and Buffalo Academy of Vi- Gerald Albright and Selina sual and Performing Arts Vo- Albright, Friday, December cal Symphony on December 14, 8 p.m., Buffalo State Col1, at Tralf Music Hall, 622 lege Performing Arts Center, Main St., Buffalo, doors open 1300 Elmwood Ave. Tickets at 7 p.m. and show is at 8 p.m. available online at buffaloTickets available at Doris Re- statepac.org or call 716-878cords or call 716-852-2860.

3005.

Flip the switch to POWER 96.5fm!

ON STAGE AT THE SENECA NIAGARA CASINO

A Dinner Dance for Mature Adults

*JAY PHAROAH Friday, December 7 and Saturday, December 8 at 8 p.m.

Bear’s Den Showroom Tickets start at $65

The Gloria J. Parks Senior Program announces its Holiday Party, a dinner dance for adults 55 or better, on Friday, December 14, from 5 – 9p.m. at the Gloria J. Parks Community Center, 3242 Main Street on the corner of Heath Street. Parking for the event is free and available behind the Gloria J. Parks Community Center and across Main Street behind St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. Admission is $20.00 which includes a full-course dinner. Tickets can be purchased at the Center’s reception desk. For more information, call Phyllis Caver, Senior Director at 8321010 ext. 206.

*THE DRIFTERS HITS & HOLIDAY SHOW Tuesday, December 11 at 2 p.m. Seneca Niagara Events Center Tickets start at $35 *Lady Legends Holiday Tour featuring The Crystals, The Marvelettes & The Toys, on Saturday December 8, at 7:30p.m. at Riviera Theatre. For tickets call 716-692-2413 or RivieraTheatre.org

SUPPORT THE ARTS! Christmas Breakfast Kick Off with Kente Claus!

Kente Claus presents the 2018 Christmas Breakfast Kick Off in Buffalo on Saturday December 1st from 9 a.m.-12 p.m., at the William Emslie YMCA .

The Afrocentric Claus is coming to the Path Of The Panther free community breakfast to spread the Christmas spirit and love. Come and enjoy a wonderful hot breakfast with games and lots of fun for the entire family.

Space is limited and we can accommodate 50 families. Please RSVP at Kenteclaus@gmail.com or directly @Kenteclaus on instagram, facebook or twitter.

Bringing you the best in R&B and Throwbacks.

Kente Claus is having a gently used toy drive, so if your child has any gently used toys they could donate to the Kente Claus "Barrels of Hope" campaign. These toys will be cleaned and sent in barrels to charities in the Caribbean and Africa.

listen worldwide in hd at

Event sponsored by the UNIA-ACL #433, Tops Supermarket on Jefferson Ave and the William - Emslie YMCA

www.power965radio.com

Entertainment

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 28, 2018

9

Will Holton, Buffalo's Premier Saxophonist "The First Day of Christmas Holiday Smooth Jazz Concert" Marks a Decade of Showcasing Extraordinary Local Talent!

T

his Friday evening, December 1, Buffalo’s premier saxophonist, Will Holton, will celebrate his 10th year of showcasing extraordinary local talent when he hosts “The First Day of Christmas Holiday Smooth Jazz. Concert" at the Tralf Music Hall. Showtime is 8p.m. Doors open at 7.

Buffalo born and raised, Holton first picked up the sax at age 18. It was a kind of 'love at first note.' He initially learned how to play in church. Plans to join the military after high school were put on the back burner.The rest is history, The extraordinarily talented young musician reflected on his career during a recent interview. One of his most vivid memories? Standing at the top of the escalator at the Tralf Music Hall and playing solo at 19 while concertgoers waited to go inside…

Q:What should people expect at the show on Saturday?

A:Holiday cheer, high energy, soulful melodies in an awesome atmosphere! Performing will be world renown guitarist Tim Bowman, smooth as silk vocalist from Carlton

Wilcox from Rochester, NY, Buffalo Music Hall of Fame Inductee from Taylor Made Jazz - Brian Freeman, The Buffalo Performing Arts Vocal Symphony under the direction of Karen Saxon and yours truly of course. Hosted

by The Doctor James Cornelius from Power 96.5 FM Q:You have produced the Christmas Show and other shows for nearly 10 years now, what do you attribute to the success of this event and other events each year?

A: Over the past 10 years, I have had the pleasure of presenting over 20 concerts and a host of smaller events from Jon B., Alex Bugnon, Melisa Morgan, “Jazz Legend” Roy Ayers and Smooth Jazz icon Najee. My concerts the Love Cadenza, Soulful Christmas, Christmas to Remember and Night of Stars have been a platform provider to many of the rising artists in the region and this brings me joy.

Launching my debut album titled “Always” was a pivotal point in my musical life.

It was at the moment I felt a surge of accomplishment.

Ten years before I did my first concert I performed in many smokey bars, small clubs, hotels, and later casinos as I cemented myself as a local artist.

One thing is certain about Buffalo NY music lovers, they are “real listeners” and if they like you they will come out even in the coldest weather!

So I would have to say having a “good product” is definitely

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a start. Branding is the other part, investing in yourself. It's a continual process.Whether its the promotions team hitting the streets, purchasing billboards or radio spots, you have to invest in yourself.

I’m so thankful to have the support of the local news both print and television including Buffalo News writer Mary Kunz Goldman (my first time in the paper, 2004).The local radio has been very supportive throughout the years as well. In 2007, 93.7 WBLK promotions director Kole Porter and program director Chris Reynolds gave me my first opportunity to open up for a national act “singer from Incognito” - Maysa Leak and also “American Idol” Ruben Studdard. This was followed up by a great article by Buffalo News reporter Brian Connelly. Ten years later since the release of 2 records, 3 nationally published songs, 3 produced records for clients and 20+ concerts… all I can say is thanks to the artists, my bandmates, WNY & CNY and all the media outlets especially the continual support from the Buffalo News “Gusto" editor Toni Ruberto and owner of Challenger Community News Alnisa Banks.

Success… I don’t really pay attention to that. I’m thankful but I desire more than a successful show or a successful album. I desire a successful career.I know it sounds cliche but hard work does pay off.

Try not to ever become complacent. Don’t be detoured.

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Q: You’ve helped many musicians over the years in many ways. Who have you helped and what has that experience been like?

A: As I have helped others they have helped me. That's the way I look at it - as a branding liaison or musical guide. Tim Webb, Deshawn DRay Jackson, Delvin Payton and others have had their first secular performances through my band. Drummer Daniel Powell (dpondrums) started playing in my band when he was just 15 years old (now 34), Rod Bonner (RB3) was 14 years old (now 27) these guys have worked hard to create their own brands but before they started touring the world with Najee, Marsha Ambrosia, Eric Benet and Will Downing we played many nights of small intimate rooms. I watched out for them being underage professional musicians. The talent they possessed then was so unique and now legendary around the nation. I was fortunate to be a connector. That’s my gift. Together we produced my first record, aided me in my first worldwide publishing placements and so much more. I’m ever grateful to them and I know they feel the same.

I worked for almost a decade for my friend / Multi-Platinum recording artist saxophonist Najee as his brand developer,

launching him on various social media platforms (myspace, youtube, facebook etc). I also designed websites (5), promotions, album photos, and video press kits - I have done the same for artists here in Buffalo. Branding is a passion of mine.

Q:How would you characterize the state of jazz today and where does smooth jazz fit in?

A: Jazz is being fused now more than ever with pop, hip-hop, rock, r&b, and soul.

Snarky Puppy, Corey Henry & The Funk Apostles, Robert Glasper are prime examples.

Their musical DNA comes from Herbie Hancock, Jazz Crusaders and Miles Davis (post-bop works). As far as smooth jazz, its a very small contributor to yearly sales. It's hard to say where it fits in but I do believe creation will continue. I do not consider myself a smooth jazz artist. In the words of the legendary Duke Ellington “Its all Music.”

Q:What have you learned playing before audiences?

A: As a performer I have learned “play your heart out” whether its for 50 or 5,000.

Every artist has great night and not so great nights. Know your audience and cater to them. Thank God for the blessings of expansion.

Continued Page 10

10

Generations

Gloria Parks Seniors Thanksgiving Luncheon!

There were a great deal of smiles and gratitude amongst over 85 senior citizens on Thursday, November 15th.

Canisius College’s Dining by Chartwells donated a full course Thanksgiving Luncheon to the members of the Senior Program at the Gloria Parks Community Center at 3242 Main Street. Chartwells not only donated and prepared all the food, but also provided several student staff members to serve the meal.

The University of Buffalo Occupational Therapy Department also provided volunteers for the event.

This event marked the first partnership between the University District Community Development Association, which operates Gloria Parks Community Center, and Chartwells. Chartwells’ Marketing Director, Sharif Hamdy explained, “Seniors Citizens are a cherished part of our community, some of which struggle this time of year to enjoy the meal and holiday fellowship that so many of us take for granted.

Our company felt it was important to reach out and make sure these wonderful people enjoy a Thanksgiving meal served in the true tradition of giving thanks.

It is our opportunity and privilege to give back to those who came before us, who helped create the society that we all enjoy, and to instill that sense of thankfulness and kindness into the next generation of community leaders, our students.”

The event was held in the Senior Dining Room of the community center.

The event included a full-course catered turkey dinner with pie for dessert. The Senior Program hosted Pastor Elder Willie Flurence of the Gospel Temple C.O.G.I.C., who spoke about the true meaning of Thanksgiving.

Several Gospel songs were performed by Pastor Valerie Foye, who works by day at Gloria Parks. The Senior Program also recognized the excellent service of two

GRATITUDE! Photos from the Thanksgiving Luncheon.

of its staff members, Geri DuBois, program receptionist, and Sheila Johnson, Senior Program Cook. Senior Program Director Phyllis Caver stated, “My daily program goal is to make our seniors feel they are cherished and supported. I felt strongly that both Geri and Sheila create that warm sense of hospitality daily for our seniors, and I just wanted to give our seniors a chance to show their gratitude to them at our first annual Thanksgiving Luncheon.

The Gloria J. Parks Senior Program serves 400 active seniors annually. Seniors can choose from many activities including hot lunches provided by Erie County, fitness classes including Hustle for Health, Stretch Band Exercise, and Tai Chi, Computers for Seniors classes, bingo and other games, field trips, and special events, like this luncheon.

Membership in the Gloria Parks Senior Program is free.

For more information, call Senior Program Director Phyllis Caver at the Gloria J. Parks Community Center at 832-1010 ext. 206.

Hats - Scarves - Gloves!

*To benefit School 31 Boys and Girls Grades Pre-K to 8th*

Drop Off Information Greater Eastside Fields OF Dreams, 188 Detroit Street Contact Marva or Mike Threat (716) 240-0708 Or Harriet Ross Tubman; School 31, 212 Stanton Street.Accepting Donations of New Gloves, Mittens, Scarves and Hats! School Officials will work to identify students in need of these items and distribute them accordingly!

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 28, 2018

CGLI TO COVER FEE FOR BUFFALO PUBLIC SCHOOL SENIORS TO SUBMIT COMMON BLACK COLLEGE APPLICATION The Communities of Giving Legacy Initiative (CGLI) a fund of the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo announced today that for the first time all Buffalo Public School high school seniors will be eligible to submit the Common Black College Application (CBCA) at no cost to them.

Between now and April 1, 2019, students can apply to any number of the participating 50 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) by visiting www.commonblackcollegeapp.com and entering code BUFPS2018. This service normally costs $35 per student. The CGLI will be covering the cost of the common application fee.

The mission of the CGLI is to cultivate positive change in the lives of trailblazing youth of color living within Western New York. The CGLI accomplishes this mission via endowment building, engaging strategic partners and intentional community connections. A core area of focus for the CGLI is removing access barriers so our youth of color may fully participate.

“The HBCU Initiative is critical to the educational, social and cultural development for students of color,” said CGLI Chairperson, Dr. Tracy Johnson. “This initiative provides access opportunities for students who otherwise may not have had the opportunity to apply to college.”

For more information about the application and for a list of participating schools, visit www.commonblackcollageapp. com. Buffalo Public School high school seniors should apply through that link and use the code BUFPS2018 to have the application fee waived.

WILL HOLTON

continued from page 9 Q:What music do you listen to and what attracts you to an artist?

A:My music choice is slightly different than what people may think… saxophonist Michael Brecker is my favorite. His musical versatility from Funk, R&B and Straight Ahead music was just unparalleled. I also like saxophonists James Carter, Bob Berg, Chris Potter, and Ernie Watts. All are versatile players.

When you listen to these giants you can hear the relationship.

The connection.

VERSATILITY, education, consistency are key to success.

Q:Any advice to young artists coming up?

A:Create your own opportunity. Don’t wait to be called for work! Invest in yourself.

Have the vision and execute!

Event: The First Day of Christmas Date : Saturday December 1, 2018 Time: 8pm Where: Tralf Music Hall 622 Main Street, Buffalo - NY Tickets Available: Doris Records, Ticketmaster and Tralf Box Office Reserved Tickets Prices : - $20 to $40 INSIDE ROCHESTER continued from page 2 that people are experiencing. I understand that there has been a lack of transparency and understanding in the superintendent search and selection process in the past. I will continue to be an authentic and transparent individual, but I will not engage in discussions questioning or disputing my views. I urge those who disagree with my viewpoint to use their energy to vet the candidates to ensure that they have the best interests of our children at heart. It is my most sincere hope and goal to identify the most highly qualified and best-suited leader for the children in the Rochester City School District.”

Suggested Readings by Kenneth and Sharon Holley “An ideology for liberation must find its existence in ourselves, it cannot be external to us, and it cannot be imposed by those other than ourselves; it must be derived from our particular historical and cultural experience. The liberation of ourselves from the captivity of racist language is the first order of the intellectual. There can be no freedom until there is a freedom of the mind.” Molefi Kete Asante from Afrocentricity: The Theory of Social Change.

•Accessory to War: The Unspoken Alliance Between Astrophysics and the Military

by Neil DeGrasse Tyson and Avis Lang •Fear: Trump in the White House by Bob Woodward •Lilley’s Journey by Cheryl Lewis (historical fiction) •Underfire: Reporting from the Front Lines of the Trump White House by April Ryan •Unhinged: An Insider’s Account of the Trump White House by Omarosa Manigault Newman •We Can’t Breathe: On Black Lives, White Lies and the Art of Survival by Jabari Asim •For the Young at Heart Corduroy Takes a Bow by Viola Davis •The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas •Swing by Kwame Alexander edited by Wade Hudson and Cheryl Willis Hudson

Leaders are readers....

VOICES

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 28, 2018

Is The Legalization of Weed All About The Benjamins?

A

full-court press is in motion for New York State to join the "fraternity" of states that have legalized cannabis (marijuana) for medical and recreational purposes.

Currently, only medical weed sales are lawful.(Recently, a medical marijuana "dispensary" opened downtown on Seneca Street.)

Pot sales are a HUGE source of tax revenue for participating states and local governments benefit, also.

The New York City Comptroller disclosed the legalized marijuana "market" could, conservatively, yield New York

by Kat Massey State and local governments $1.3 billion (combined taxes) yearly. NYC's share, alone, potentially is pegged at $1.1 billion.

(Side Note: the taxes placed on alcohol and tobacco sales are sometimes called "corrective" or "sin" taxes. They are so named -- because they are, supposedly, in part, meant to "discourage" use of the products -- which can increase users health care costs, for instance.

Clearly, it's "all about the Benjamins" and there seems to be no intention by NYS to dissuade the use of "herb" which may be addictive (due to the increased levels of mind-altering THC), and it could cause lung problems for long-term, heavy users.

Legalization is being marketed as a potential big moneymaker, which can be inclusive of Buffalo residents that are prepared for weed business opportunities, upon its passage into law. (Isn't it impressive, drug dealing, almost with the stroke of a pen [NYS] can be elevated from low-life occupation to one of upward mobility?)

Possibly, current owners of convenient stores, gas stations, cellphone and beauty-supply businesses -- located in abundance on the Eastside and other areas -- can capitalize greatly on such "new sales." They have "infrastructure." That is, buildings, business experience, capital, etc.

With Buffalo ranking among the poorest cities in the US, how many in the low income, unemployed and underemployed ranks will benefit?

With little money, how could he or she buy the "product" for selling, rent or buy a location, pay utilities, etc.?

It's doubtful the drug can be sold from small kiosks (booths) on street corners or from back packs!

Question: will weed "hubs" attract similar problems (ex, loitering) as some liquor stores encounter?

Part of the sales pitch given -- to gain support for decriminalizing marijuana -- is the admission that African Americans, Hispanics and Latinos are in the majority, for decades, for arrests in NYS for possessing it.

Most disturbing, since 1977, NYS law allows people to have small amounts which are hidden from "public view" on their person. Yet, countless people, in the above group, in clear violation of the guideline, have been arrested, unjustly, after a "search and seizure" occurrence.

It's obvious, NYS has neglected, with longevity, enforcement of the letter of the law which should have rectified the situation long ago.

Nancy Reagan, a former First Lady, championed a "just say no" initiative for youth.

Even in its considerable ineffectiveness, it at least offered cautionary guidance for them.

The current legalization movement, doesn't directly convey a get-high endorsement. However, there aren't needed counterbalance messages telling young folks it's cool not to get high.

Perhaps the "illegal" label, applied to some drugs, has become just a temporary identification reversable should revenue opportunities arise for the State.

SPEAK OUT

“We wish to plead our own cause.

Too long have others spoken for us.”

- John Russwurm, Freedom’s Journal.

1827 America’s 1st Black Newspaper

Printend In Canada

Free But Not Free: A Call for Justice for the "Buffalo 3"!

I

met Buffalo resident John Walker over 10 years ago at a fundraiser that was being held to raise money to hire lawyers to help clear his name. For those that don't recall this case, John Walker and two other men were arrested, charged and convicted for a murder that evidence (or in this case the lack of it) clearly showed that John Walker, Darryl Boyd and the now, late, Darren Gibson could not have committed the murder they went to jail for in 1977.

There was no eyewitness to the crime that linked the three men to the robbery and crime scene.

There was no weapon found or money recovered.

There was no smoking gun or piercing knife and in spite of the elderly victim being brutally beaten to death, no blood stained clothes belonging to any of the gentlemen were put forth.

BETTY JEAN

All the prosecutor had GRANT was the scared, forced, false confession of a 16 year old who was drilled by an ambitious district attorney (who is now a retired supreme court judge) and who offered this youth a 'free card out of jail' if he would just say they killed the man who lived on Fillmore Ave, right across the street from the Golden Nugget Lounge. All he had to do, the DA told him, was to implicate his co-defendants and leave town. The intimidated young man took the offer and ran out of town the same day he was released from the jail cell.

When this case first started, there were five Black men charged. One took the plea deal; Darryl Boyd (left) and John Walker (right) pictured in a second young man was represented by 2012 after submitting a Motion to Vacate Indictment a smart, young lawyer named James A.W. 41413. Challenger Photo McLeod and he was acquitted. The other three defendants, Walker, Boyd and Gibson, who were represented by public defenders, were convicted and spent decades in jail before they were paroled. Darren Gibson, the son of a Buffalo minister, wound up spending 12 years more years in prison than he needed to because he refused to show remorse for a crime that he did not commit. The last time he appeared before the parole commissioners, they did not ask him to show remorse and he was paroled. Sadly, he died of a massive heart attack only a few months after he was released from prison.

The Buffalo 3, minus the deceased Darren Gibson, are still fighting to clear their name. John Walker, whose health is rapidly declining and who is walking with the aid of a cane, and Darryl Boyd are still fighting to clear their names so they can live the rest of their lives without the false charge of being murderers wrongly attached to them and their families.

Those of us in this community, who believe they were wrongly convicted, need to call the current Erie County DA, John Flynn, and ask him to keep the promise he made to us when he was campaigning for his position in 2017. He said that he would look into the matter and see if justice was indeed miscarried in this decades old case. That is all we ask for and that is what the falsely accused and wrongly convicted deserve.

Hua Hu Ching Twenty-One Each moment is fragile and fleeting. The moment of the past cannot be kept, however beautiful. The moment of the present cannot be held, however enjoyable. The moment of the future cannot be caught, however desirable. But the

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

P: 716 881.1051 F: 716 881.1053

by Lao Tzu

mind is desperate to fix the river in place: Possessed by ideas of the past, preoccupied with images of the future, it overlooks the plain truth of the moment. The one who can dissolve her mind will suddenly discover the Tao at her feet, and clarity at hand.

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

-Tao Te Ching

• 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.

11

Nate Boyd, Let Me Know The Next Time You Need Me To Join You!

Dear Editor I am a former HUD REAC Inspector, certified by HUD to come out to municipal housing developments to go over the mana g e m e n t dear and main- editor tenance and inspect municipal housing properties. For more than six years I’ve submitted HUD management, maintenance and taught staff how to pre-inspect the municipal properties. I submitted these proposals to the mayor and various city councilmembers, only to be ignore by all of them. I also submitted to the past and current Executive Directors. The result? NOTHING. The worst part is that I’ve directly spoken to the mayor about my services and how they would help as recently as several weeks ago. His response was that I should not believe everything I read or hear on the news and that they’ve got everything under control.

REALLY? Apparently HUD doesn’t think so.

Yet, we continue to see article after article showing just how badly my HUD REAC knowledge and experience is truly needed.

I’ve even been asked to join my friend activist Nate Boyd at a Langfield apartment (BMHA), along with channel 7 to tour the apartment of a young lady suffering from numerous problems in her homet.

I’ve tried to avoid speaking on this subject but when you look me dead in my face and tell me my services aren’t needed and I’ve seen first hand and in the news that my services and HUD experience is needed I can no longer turn a blind eye.

Nate, let me know the next time you need me to join you!

(Side Note: The Perry Projects are located in a prime development area of the city. If they can allow it to remain vacant and deteriorate to a point of no repair - which is why HUD is on the case - the property can be demolished and eventually sold to developers that will build non affordable Housing for new, incoming residents who have not supported the city for years.)

-Willie A. Price Majadi Enterprises Inc. Advertising /News/ Information/Inquiries

adver tising@thechallengernews.com

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

12

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 28, 2018

BUSINESS BRIEFS CAOWNY-PECI Business Development Series Graduation Set The CAOWNY-PECI Business Development Series graduation is scheduled for December 4 from 6- 9 p.m.at the Rafi Greene CAO Masten Resource Center, 1423 Fillmore Avenue.

Over 40 students will graduate From September 10 to November 27 the CAOWNY-PECI ran two full Business Development Series; one on Mondays and the other on Tuesdays. The Monday workshops provided basic information to participants. The Tuesday workshops were frequented by students who had graduated from previous Business Development Series and were more intense. For more information call (716) 332-3773.

Over 2 Million Black-Owned Businesses in U.S. According to the United States Census Bureau, there are more than 2 million businesses in the country that are owned

by African Americans, dispelling a lot of rumors that African Americans are not successful in business. On the contrary, Black-owned businesses are a huge asset to the U.S. economy.

Here are 10 more little-known facts about Black businesses: LOCATION: #1 – The highest ratio of Black-owned businesses is in Washington, DC where 28% percent of ALL businesses there are owned by African Americans. #2 – The second highest ratio of Black-owned businesses is in the state of Georgia, where 20% of ALL businesses there are Black-owned. #3 – Although the ratio is only 10.6%, the state of New York actually has the most Black-owned firms at 204,093.

EMPLOYEES: #4 – Of the 2 million Black businesses in the U.S., only about 107,000 of them have actual employees and they employ mo INDUSTRIES: #5 – Nearly 38% of Black businesses are in health care and social assistance, repair and maintenance, and personal and laundry services. #6 – Other popular categories among Black businesses include advertising firms, auto dealerships, consulting services, restaurants, barbershops, beauty salons, and more.

TOP BUSINESSES: #7 – World Wide Technology, a global technology consulting firm based in St Louis, MO, is the LARGEST Black-owned business in the country. Founded by entrepreneur David Steward, they post annual revenues of more than $2 billion. #8 – There are actually many Black-owned businesses that generate millions in annual revenue. For example, Oprah Winfrey’s Harpo Productions and Bob Johnson’s RLJ Companies. There is also GlobalHue, an advertising agency in Detroit, that generates more than $480 million in annual revenue; and many, many others.

WHERE IMPROVEMENT IS NEEDED: #9 – African Americans make up more than 13% of the U.S. population, but only own 7% of the businesses. #10 – Nearly 1.9 million of the 2 million Black-owned businesses do not have paid employees.

For more stats and information pertaining to Black businesses, visit www.BlackBusiness.org. *This article originally appeared in the Charleston Chronicle

AT THE POINT BY

GREGORY L. GAMBLE II

For Student-Athletes by a Former Student-Athlete Part 4: Extraordinary Discipline and Stewardship For high-school athlete’s there’s always great emphasis put on what level of one would be able to participate in college.

Division I being the highest, where you could receive full tuition, room and board as a part of your awarded scholarship.

Division II being the level right below Division I, where you could earn partial scholarships for college and then Division III where no athletic scholarships were awarded.

Where I’m from, in basketball, it was either Division I or bust.

In my early high school years, I was thought of as a Division III player at best.

One of my assistant coaches even thought it appropriate to tell me this not just to my face, but also while in a huddle during an actual basketball game where the rest of my teammates could hear. Imagine how embarrassing and demeaning that could feel.

But for me, it was fuel, and maybe the coach knew that about my personality and made the statement to motivate me. Either way, it added gas to an already scorching flame.

What I quickly found was that my success lied in simplicity. John W. Gardner explains this best when he stated, “Excellence is doing ordinary things, extraordinarily well.” I found my athletic voice through meticulousness and self-accountability.

I found out what factors made me successful as a basketball player and I practiced them over and over and over again.

It was through the lens of simplicity that efficiency was prioritized. I discovered that I could be excellent by being efficient, and that I could become efficient by practicing stewardship and discipline over the knowledge I had gained.

Commonly overlooked when discussing discipline and stewardship, is circumstance. It’s very easy to create plans, schedules and goals when life is throwing you fair weather. You can wake up early, be excited about your day and knock your own expectations out of the ballpark.

But it’s when you’ve awakened to another day of unfavorable circumstances, or insurmountable odds, that the character of a true champion is developed and at that point it’s about staying in the fight, making the everyday/hour decisions, remaining committed to your focus, your discipline, your stewardship and your excellence that will propel you to successfulness.

The beautiful thing about commitment is that it has no prerequisites. You’re not required to have already accomplished major feats in your life to become committed or to practice discipline and stewardship. All that is required of you is to move forward everyday committed to excellence.

You can do so by starting a small challenge: wake up every-day and make sure your bed is made and your room clean before you walk out of the house. This is a simple practice of discipline, and stewardship and you can build from there and see where it takes you! Be extraordinarily great every-day and watch how your life and your skill level makes a change for the better. You’ve Got Odds2Beat!

Greg Gamble is a Former Student Athlete, Educator and Youth Sports Advocate. The forthcoming part 5 will be the final piece to this series. Read previous articles on thechallengernews.com

Bills Defeat TRASH Talking Jaguars 24-21 The Bills and Jaguars actually played a very entertaining game with plenty of superb defensive plays by the Bills. However the momentum changed in the game after a fight broke out with several players from both teams were involved in incident.

The Bills were able to use the momentum to take over with QB Josh Allen running for a decisive TD. Bills QB Josh Allen threw for 160 yards on 8 out of 19 attempts but ran for 98 yards.

Once again I hate to sound like a broken record but Allen’s performances are very Tyrod Taylor like with him missing open receivers who were wide open or throwing the ball at their feet. Allen can throw one or two passes that well and turn around like a semi pro QB. He has a long way to go in order to be a good NFL QB. You can’t run every game and avoid taking hit along with calling his own number and taking unnecessary hits. Marcell Dareus, Jaguars Defensive end and former Buffalo Bill said thank you to the Western New York community and admits he misses playing Santa Claus in the community.

Marcell also said, “I enjoyed being involved in the community and wanted to give back to our kids, it changed my life as well.

It was very important to me to be in the community. I feel comfortable playing at a 318 lbs instead of 335 lbs; I’m quicker and can get inside push on opposing linemen much better.” We thank Marcell for his time spent in Western New York and especially his Santa Claus parties for the children of our community.

Bills cornerback Levi Wallace said “I ripped the ball out of the hands of the receiver and it should have been ruled an interception. I was wondering why it took so long for players and the ref to break us up.” It was my first home game and I was nervous for the team. I look forward to playing against Dolphins in Miami. We must have a good week of film study in order to be prepared for them.”

Levi Wallace is another one of those good football players coming from Alabama championship teams and will be a good cornerback for the Bills if he can stay healthy. He must be able to stay on the field. That was his only problem at Alabama and could turn into a high quality un-drafted free agent starter for the Bills.

It’s squish the fish week and the Bills travel to South Florida for the first meeting against the Dolphins in 2018. I see Dolphins QB Ryan Tannerhill and Bills QB looking very similar and running and throwing terrible passes throughout the game.

Prediction: Bills will win on last second field goal 20-17.

Follow me on Twitter, Facebook

Bills Report

Visit our sports writers online www.thechallengernews.com/ sports

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 28, 2018 Advertisement for Bids November 15, 2018

LEGAL NOTICE BIDS REQUEST FOR BID Mark Cerrone, Inc. is requesting bids for the following projects for all scopes of work detailed in contract documents. Optional MWBE Pre-bid meetings will be held interested firms at MCI Office. Documents can be obtained by contacting the associated estimator, Phone 716-282-5244, Fax 716-282-5245 or iSqFt®. Bids due electronically or in person at 2368 Maryland Ave., Niagara Falls, NY 14305. Certified firms for associated goals are strongly encouraged.

Large Services Contract in Erie County, NY. Contact: jlarcara@ markcerrone.com. Optional MWBE Meeting 11/28/18 at 3:30PM. MWBE:10%. Proposals due to MCI by 12/3/18 at 12:00PM. Hertel Ave. at Deer St. Real Time Control Project in Buffalo, NY. Contact: cganje@markcerrone.com.

Optional MWBE Meeting 12/5/18 at 3:30pm. MWBE: 20%. Proposals due to MCI by 12/11/18 at 2:00PM.

Roycroft Campus Corporation 31 South Grove Street East Aurora, New York 14052 NOTICE OF SOLICITATION OF GENERAL CONTRACTORS FOR CONSTRUCTION WORK at the ROYCROFT COPPER SHOP, 31 SOUTH GROVE STREET, EAST AURORA, NY for FLOOR REPLACEMENT AND MECHANICAL SYSTEM UPDATE

LEGAL NOTICE

NFTA Procurement Invitation to Bid 4830 - CONSULTING SERVICES FOR TRANSPORTATION MODELING SUPPORT Download Bids from www. nfta.com LEGAL NOTICE BIDS COUNTY OF ERIE NOTICE TO BIDDERS Genesee Rd/NYS Rt 240 & Sibley Rd Safety Improvements PROJ# FA-30.49.198.409.432-18 PIN 5760.99 Department of Public Works (DPW), Division of Highways, seeking sealed bids for federal road intersection improvement project in Town of Concord. Sealed proposals will be received at the Erie County Rath Building, DPW, 95 Franklin St, Rm 1400, Buffalo, NY by 10 am, Thursday, December 6, 2018. $31,000. certified check, as bid deposit, attached to bid submittal required.

Minority workforce, NYS Apprenticeship goals, 11% DBE goals, and Davis Bacon Wage Rates requirements may apply. Pre-let meeting scheduled for Thursday, November 29, 2018 at 11 am EST, Rath Building, DPW, 95 Franklin Street, Room 1404, Buffalo, NY. Download plans and additional bid submittal information from the Erie County website at: http://www2.erie.gov/dpw see On

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

ROOMS

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

(716)818-3410.

Sealed bids for the Roycroft Copper Shop: Floor Replacement and Mechanical System Update will be received until 2:00 pm, Tuesday, December 11, 2018 at the Roycroft Campus Power House, 28 South Grove Street, East Aurora, NY 14052 (Attn: Curt Maranto), where they will be opened and read publicly. 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 (10%) ten percent of the bid amount. Work must be performed by contractors with no less than five years successful experience in completion of similar projects for State, National or locally registered landmarks. Contractors must submit a list of completed projects, including project name, address, owner and consultant. (Similar projects to be listed on the Bid Form).

The successful bidder will be required to furnish a Performance Bond and Labor and Material Bond each for 100% of the Contract amount.

The completion date for this project is May 15, 2019.

This project is being funded in part by grants administered by Erie County, New York and by the New York State Council on the Arts for Empire State Development.

Under Article 15A, Executive Law, it is the policy of the State of New York to encourage participation of minority and women-owned business enterprises in Statefunded projects. The following goals have been set for this project: 17% Women Owned and 13% Minority Owned businesses. The Contractor, by bidding on the contract, acknowledges understanding and support of this policy and pledges to fully cooperate with the Roycroft Campus Corporation in meeting NYS requirements as set forth in the Bidding and Contract Documents.

•Effective Thursday, November 15, 2018, Bid Documents may be examined free of charge at Avalon Document Services, 741 Main Street, Buffalo, New York 14203. Bid Documents may be purchased at the same location. Each request must be accompanied by a certified check in the amount of $42.00 (non-refundable) for each set of drawings and specifications. Cash or personal Checks will not be accepted.

•There will be a mandatory prebid meeting Thursday, November 29, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at the project location: Roycroft Copper Shop, 31 South Grove Avenue, East Aurora, New York.

•Questions after the pre-bid meeting must be submitted in writing no later than the end of the business December 4, 2018 attention Michael Lennon at Flynn Battaglia Architects, PC. Email (melennon@flynnbattaglia.com) or fax (716-854-2428) are acceptable.

•All Addenda, if any, will be sent via email after the November 29 meeting. Please provide email contact information.

The Roycroft Campus Corporation has been and will continue to be an equal opportunity organization. All qualified Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (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 Vietnam Era Veterans status.”

LEGAL NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE APPLICATION FOR DEBT EXCLUSION County of Erie The Chief Fiscal Officer of the County of Erie filed on November 21, 2018, in the Office of the State Comptroller an Application for Exclusion of Outstanding Sanitary Sewer Indebtedness in the Amount of $2,305,000 pursuant to Section 124.10 of the Local Finance Law. This Application is on file as public record in the Office of the Chief Fiscal Officer.

Stefan I. Mychajliw Comptroller Chief Fiscal Officer, County of Erie

13

EMPLOYMENT/HELP WANTED

LEGAL NOTICE BIDS

Quality Assurance Specialist:Assisting with duties within the Corporate Compliance Department with a focus on quality assurance measures, auditing and monitoring. Associates degree in human serviceor High School Diploma and 3 yrs. experience in field of human services. SALARY RANGE: 33,000 – 38,000 HIPAA Compliance and Security Officer: managing the protection, security of and access to information deemed confidential, sensitive and/or regulatory protected in compliance with federal and state laws (HIPAA, HITECH). Bachelor’s Degree and 1 yr. experience in privacy in Human Services.

SALARY RANGE: 45,000 – 50,000 Director, Niagara Frontier Radio Reading Service: Coordinating and supervising the day-to-day activities of the Niagara Frontier Radio Reading Service. Must have experience in soliciting corporate sponsorships and fundraising.Experience in event planning highly desirable. Must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in public communications, marketing, business; with two (2) years related experience, or an Associate’s Degree with three (3) years related work experience. SALARY RANGE: 50,000 – 55,000 NY Connects Independent Living Outreach SpecialistILNC(Niagara Falls): Present in the community program LEGAL NOTICE information at venues with access to seniors, individuals with disabilities and caregivers who would benefit from access to the NOTICE OF SALE NY Connects. Bachelor's or an Associate's Degree related to huSTATE OF NEW YORK SUPREME COURT : COUNTY OF man services with work experience related to same. Must have ERIE the ability to be mobile and work at various locations. SALARY Index No. 807996/2016 RANGE: 29,500 – 34,500 Hon. E. Jeannette Ogden Addict to Addict Family to Family Peer Support Specialist JOHN PREVITY and MILTON KOUTSANDREAS, Provide Rapid Peer Support Services to individuals being treated Plaintiffs, in Hospital Emergency Rooms throughout Erie County. Candiv. date MUST be able to work Evenings Monday through Friday 49 HOPKINS, INC. and NEW YORK STATE “Flexible Schedule.” Bachelor's Degree in a Human Services DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND related major and one-year experience working in a Human SerFINANCE, vices or an Associate's degree with three years’ experience workDefendants. ing in Human Services. SALARY RANGE: 30,000 – 35,000 Pursuant to a Judgment of ForecloNotice to MBE, WBE, SDVOB, DBE, Section 3, HUB, etc., as applicable.

Conifer-LeChase Construction, LLC is requesting bids from certified MBE, WBE, SDVOB, Section 3 contractors for all trades for the Western NY Rural Preservation (C3PO) project.

Bids are due 12/3/18, at 2:00 pm.

Submit a letter of interest in bidding the project to Conifer-LeChase Construction, LLC, attention Joe Stutzman. The letter should be on letterhead and include years in business, trade union affiliation, certified MBE, WBE, SDVOB, Section 3 status. Letters can be emailed to joe. stutzman@conifer-lechase.com or faxed to 585.760.5353. All qualified applicants will be afforded equal employment opportunities without discrimination because of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, age, disability or marital status.

sure and Sale duly entered October 23, 2018, and filed October 24, 2018, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction in the Foreclosure Alcove located on the First Floor of the Office of the Clerk of the County of Erie, located at 92 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York 14202, on December 18, 2018 at 9:00 a.m., all that certain parcel of land situate in the City of Buffalo, County of Erie and State of New York, SBL: 133.17-1-7, together with the buildings and improvements thereon, the premises commonly known as 49 Hopkins Street, Buffalo, New York 14220.

The amount of the judgment is $274,737.96, plus costs and disbursements in the amount of $2,485.00 and attorneys’ fees in the amount of $24,644.99, all with interest, plus advances made by plaintiffs until the date of sale, pursuant to the Judgment.

The premises will be sold subject to the provisions of the filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.

Dated November 14, 2018 Arcangelo J. Petricca, Esq., Referee Attorneys for Plaintiffs: Deborah J. Chadsey, Esq. Kavinoky Cook LLP 726 Exchange Street, Suite 800 Buffalo, New York 14210 (716) 845-6000

NY Connects Independent Living Outreach Specialist- ILC work with the NY Connects Team to connect aging or disabled individuals and their families to established support programs help facilitate access to needed home and community based supports and services. Bachelor's or an Associate's Degree related to human services with work experience related to same. Must be able to independently travel throughout Erie county.

Salary Range: 30,000-35,000 Please submit Resume and Cover letter to: Tina Brown, CHRCO 3108 Main Street Buffalo, NY 14214 employment@wnyil.org

JOBS

Buffalo Employment and Training Center / BETC 716-856-5627

www.workforcebuffalo.org The BETC is here to help with your job searching needs.

We have free services to all jobseekers looking to find better paying work, an exciting new career, or wanting to upgrade skills to become more marketable. in today’s marketplace.

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

SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES!

14

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 28, 2018

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

AUTO BEN’S Downtown Tire

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

ART GALLERY Main Street Gallery Lodina Clyburn 515 Main Street Lodina@gmail.com

BAIL BONDS GIST BAIL BONDS

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

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

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BOOKS ALIVE CHRISTIAN BOOKSTORE 2275 Fillmore Ave. (716) 837-1118 ZAWADI BOOKS 1382 Jefferson Ave. 716-903-6740

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 28, 2018

WEDNESDAY NOV. 28

FRIDAY NOV. 30

Meet The Artist, Dr. Ysaije Barnwell: 7 p.m., Paul Robeson Theater inside the African American Cultural Center, 350 Masten Avenue.

Mommy and Me Yoga! For children ages 3-12 and the adults that love them, fee i$15 per person 289 Summer St. Hosted by The Mindful Center LLC. For info Gizelle @ 716310-9954

“KeyBank Business Boost & Build Buffalo Pitch Competition” : 5:30 p.m.-8 p.m. at the Foundry Suites 1738 Elmwood Avenue.

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

THURSDAY NOV. 29 Community Sing Featuring Dr. Ysaije Barnwell: 7 p.m. Buffalo State College’s Alumni l& Visitors Center, 667 Grant Street.

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

SEE YOU AT THE EVENTS!

“Dance is for everybody…”

-Alvin Ailey

On Going Community Dance Classes MONDAYS Hustle for Health Urban Line Dancing with Phyllis Caver at Gloria Parks: 3242 Main St. 12 noon. – 1p.m.; FREE for ages 55+ 832 -1010 DJ Dave Urban Line Dancing, Martha Mitchell Center, 175 Oakmont, 5:307:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAYS Hustle for Health Urban Line Dancing with Phyllis Caver at Gloria Parks: 3242 Main St. 11 a.m. - 12 noon.

FREE for ages 55+ 832 -1010 Urban Line Dance Classes: St. Phillips, 15 Fernhill ; 6-8 p.m.; Cheri & Darel 200-9702.

DJ Dave Urban Line Dancing, Baptist Manor, 276 Linwood. 5:30-7:30 p.m.

THURSDAYS Line Dance Classes with Willa Jackson, Instructor, 10:30 -11:30 a.m.

Schiller Park Senior Center, 2057 Genesee st. 895-2727.

FRIDAYS Beginners/Intermediate Line Dance Classes Every Friday 6pm Bethel AME Church Hall 1525 Michigan @ E.Ferry Ernestine, Instructor Chicago Steppin’: Every Friday 7-8:30 p.m. The Pratt Center 422 Pratt St. SATURDAYS Mike's Smooth Urban Ballroom Dance Classes: 11 to 1 PM, Saturdays, Delavan-Grider Community Center, 877 E. Delavan Ave. 716-380-5100 class is $5 DJ Dave Urban Line Dancing, Baptist Manor, 276 Linwood.10a.m.-12 noon.

Holiday Celebration , Visit from Santa and Tree Lighting at Ice at Canalside: 5pm - 9 p.m.

SATURDAY DEC. 1 The Art for Artists Holiday Auction : 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the Unboxed Art Sanctuary @ Outside the Box, 1272 Delaware Avenue (in the carriage house).

A benefit for the African American Cultural Center, $25 per person. Tickets are available online at https://artforartistsholidayauction.eventbrite.com or by calling 716.445.5122 Will Holton’s “The First Day of Christmas Holiday Smooth Jazz Concert”: Tralf Music Hall.

Doors open 7 p.m. Showtime 8 p.m.852-2860; Tickets $20-$40 Ticketmaster.

Shop Till You Drop Holiday Bazaar: 12 noon – 4 p.m, Second Baptist Church, 18 Church Street, Lackawanna; hosted by Women’s Ministry; 646-1875 or 826-4940.Baptist Church Wednesday Dec. 5 The Durham Central City Baby Café . Info and support for pregnant and breastfeeding moms 5:30 – 7:30 pm 200 Eagle St (716)427-0566.

2018 Holiday Celebration and Tree Lighting at Ice at Canalside This Weekend!

The 2018 Holiday Celebration and Tree Lighting at Ice at Canalside will take place Friday, November 30 @ 5pm - 9 pm This free, family-oriented event takes place at the Ice at Canalside presented by BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York , just off the Erie Canal Harbor Station on the Metro Rail!

Holiday festivities will kick off at 5 p.m. with music, on-ice performances, and a visit from Santa himself. (Santa will meet with all the good little girls and boys on weekends throughout the month of December!)

Regular Ice Skating Hours

•3 to 7 p.m.: Wednesday/ Thursday •3 to 10 p.m.: Friday •10 a.m. to 10 p.m.: Saturday •10 a.m. to 8 p.m.: Sunday Hours may change during school breaks and on holidays, as well as during inclement weather.

Visit Canalside’s website or facebook, Instagram, and twitteraccounts for the most up-to-date hours.** Rates: Ice Admission, Adult

Thursday Dec. 6 The Durham Central City Baby Café . Info and support for pregnant and breastfeeding moms 5:30 – 7:30 pm 200 Eagle St (716)427-0566.

Friday Dec. 7 Studio J’s 6th Annual Holiday Dinner Showcase: McKinley High, 150 Elmwood Ave. Dinner 5-6:15 p.m., Showcase 6:30 p.m. $5 donation at the door.

Book Signing “Bullying” by Dr. Catherine Collins: Zawadi Books , 1382 Jefferson Ave. (across from Jim Bell Cleaners) 3-6 p.m.

Saturday Dec. 8 Fruit Belt Community Development Corporations HONORS LUNCHEON: 1 p.m. at the Grand Hotel 120 Church St. For tickets and info call 716 8524504.

Wednesday Dec. 12 The Durham Central City Baby Café . Info and support for pregnant and breastfeeding moms 5:30 – 7:30 pm 200 Eagle St (716)427-0566.

BOOK SIGNING: A Book Signing “Bullying” by Dr.Catherine Collins will be held at Zawadi books, 1382 Jefferson Ave. (across from Jim Bell Cleaners) on Friday Dec. 7 from 3-6 p.m.

Friday Dec. 14 A Dinner Dance for Mature Adults: The Gloria J. Parks Senior Program Holiday Party, for adults 55 or better 5 – 9 p.m.

3242 Main Street (corner of Heath Street).

SEE YOU AT THE EVENTS!

15

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IMAGES OF US

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 28, 2018

THE FIRST FAMILY: Ebele Ifedigbo, the brilliant young co-founder of Oakland California’s The Hood Incubator, (fourth from left), was the featured presenter during a panel discussion on what minority communities can do to prepare to enter the multi-billion dollar legal marijuana industry.

Hosted by State Assemblywoman Crystal Peoplesl Stokes as part of a two-day event, Ebele captivated the standing room only gathering at Medaille College Nov. 17 with her common sense, down to earth, profoundly informative presentation. A native of Buffalo, she grew up on the city’s East side and graduated from City Honors. She holds a joint B.A. in Economics and Philosophy with a minor in African Studies from Columbia University and graduated with an MBA from Yale University.

Among her honors, she was named to Forbes Magazine’s prestigious “30 Under 30 List ." She has been invited back to Yale twice since graduating to address cannabis business conferences hosted by the university. Unapologetically Black, Ebele’s Hood Incubator project is dedicated to using business to foster innovation and racial equity in the cannabis industry. Watch t he Challenger for a follow up report soon. Ebele is pictured above with her proud Nigerian family following the panel discussion: (l-r) Ike Amobi (uncle), Barry Infedigbo (uncle), Gwen Ifedigbo (mother), Ebelel, Obi Ifedigbo (father) and Basil Gigi (uncle.) Congratulations First Family! Challenger Photo

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