Challenger Community News November 29, 2017

SERVING BUFFALO, ROCHESTER, NIAGARA FALLS AND SURROUNDING AREAS

November 29, 2017 | FREE |

INTERNATIONAL

Libya and The African Slave Trade 2017 Page 4

INJUSTICE

“You Can Replace A Window…

But You Can’t Replace A Life…”

Page 3

THE ARTS

“Stay Gold!”

Burchfield Penney Celebration Page 9

WORLD AIDS DAY: HIV Rate for America’s Black Gay and Bisexual

Men at Crisis Levels Page 5

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

2

INSIDE ROCHESTER

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 29, 2017

BILLS UPDATE

By George Radney

Rochester to Host Kwanzaa Marketplace!

Open Sundays December 3, 10 ,17 ,& 24 at Public Market

Gather your friends and family together for a unique shopping experience. The Kwanzaa Marketplace 2017 is a lively vendors showcase, featuring art, clothes, crafts, Kwanzaa kits and other wonderful gifts just in time for the holidays! It takes place on Saturday, December 2 at the Baobab Cultural Center, 728 University Avenue from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information contact Delores Jackson Radney 585 355 8888.

City Business Development Session to Feature Guest Speaker Kevin Howell Mayor Lovely Warren invites business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs to attend an information session with the City's Neighborhood and Business Development Department designed to help businesses located in Rochester access City loans, grants and services in order to grow or improve their business. The second of three, free information sessions will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30 at the Thomas P. Ryan R-Center, 530 Webster Ave. and features guest speaker Kevin Howell.

An additional information session is scheduled for 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 10 at City Hall, Council Chambers, 30 Church St. City business owners should RSVP by calling (585) 428-6912 or email at Alisa.Gillan@cityofrochester.gov.

More information on resources for city businesses may be found at www.cityofrochester.gov/BusinessResources.

Baobab Center Issues A Call to Action!

The Baobab Cultural Center stands at a critical point in time.

As a major education and cultural resource in the city of Rochester and surrounding counties, the center is faced with the reality of closing its doors permanently at the end of 2017, due to a lack of resources.

In this season of giving, we ask that you consider adding a different type of gift to your holiday list- the gift of Knowledge.

Join us as we develop concrete ways to sustain this fine institution for years to come.

Therefore, we invite you to help us in this endeavor to SAVE the Baobab Cultural Center.

Please join us for an Open Reception with Tours, Conversation, Video Highlights and Refreshments. Tours will be held at 6:00pm and 8:00pm. 1st Friday, December 2, 2017, 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm at The Baobab Cultural Center 728 University Ave.

AROUND TOWN *Garth Fagan Dance 2017 Home Season: Nazareth College Arts Center Wed., Nov. 29 @ 7:30 p.m.; Thursday Nov. 30 @ 8 p.m.; Friday Dec. 1 @ 8 p.m.; Saturday Dec. 2 @ 2 p.m.

Matinee with Garth Fagan Dance Student Ensemble ; Saturday Dec. 2 @ 8 p.m. and Sunday Dec. 3 @ 2 p.m. Matinee with Garth Fagan Dance Student Ensemble. For more info 585-3892170 or artscenter@naz.edu; Tickets www.naz.edu/artscenter

Kelvin Benjamin #13 Photo by Jerome Davis

Bills Upset Chiefs

Bills Head Coach Sean McDermott really looks stupid by benching his QB last week. The Bills 16-10 win in Kansas City and could have been a win last week in LA against the Chargers. It’s like our Head Coach does not have total confidence in his players. He still is not playing Ryan Gory (center/Guard), Seantel Henderson (tackle) and John Miller (guard) on the Bills offensive line. The Bills best offensive line is currently sitting on the bench.

The Bills are 6-5 and still have an opportunity at ending the 17 year drought, but our Head Coach seems hell bent on getting rid of almost all of former General Manager Doug Whaley’s players no matter how productive they are or have been in the past season. One bright spot for the 2017 season is Tre Davious White who helped seal the game with a 66 yard interception. It was his second career interception. Tre Davious White will be a good player providing the Bills continue to have a pass rush upfront on the defensive line. Bills wide receiver Zay Jones caught an 11 yard pass from Tyrod Taylor in the first quarter for his second career touchdown. It’s quite obvious Zay Jones is now catching up to the speed of the game. It was during the game against New York Jets when he finally started to feel and look comfortable catching the ball with a man on him. He has a very good future ahead of him and could become a true number one

dominate receiver with this t e a m in the next two years.

The GEORGE RADNEY Bills new running back Travaris Cadet is quite explosive getting to line of scrimmage and is an excellent receiver out of the backfield.

He was a good receiver for Drew Brees in New Orleans and can help Tyrod Taylor by taking a short pass and picking up first downs. He will be much more reliable than Kelvin Benjamin has been so far in the Bills lineup.

Why would the front office agree to pay Kelvin Benjamin his 5th year contract for next season for 7.5 million but choose not to pay former Bills receiver Robert Wood last year for 8 million? Woods is now number one receiver for the LA Rams and could still be here in Buffalo for virtually the same money but a much better receiver. This is the idiot moves that keeps the Bills from making the playoffs. The Bills did extend Eric Woods, who continues to be a terrible football player for the team. The front office says he promotes the right culture in the locker room, but the right culture never won a football game, good players do!!!

Yes, good players will be coming to New ERA Field on Sunday in the presence of New England Patriots. I look for former Bill Mike Gillislee

to play and have a big game for Patriots along with Gronk and Tom Brady. The Bills must score at least 30 points to keep up with Patriots, so I see Tyrod Taylor having a big passing game provided he is allowed to roll out of pocket to make plays in a shootout won by Bills 38-35 possibly in overtime. Get ready football fans for a very exciting game! Follow me on twitter/ Facebook: georgeradney@george radman or TheChallengernews.com for more photos and articles.

3

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 29, 2017

AREA BRIEFS Howard Officially Wins Race for Sheriff

Wisdom Speakers: Former Deputy speaker Arthur O. Eve, age 85 and his long time assistant viola Hill, 98, will be cited along with several other outstanding "elders" in the community during the Convening of the Elders event Saturday.

Convening of the Elders 2017 On Saturday, December 2 UMOJA Inc. presents the annual Convening of The Elders at Rafi Green Community Center 1423 Fillmore & Glenwood. The Brunch will be held at 12 noon and Presentations of Wisdom from 1pm –until. The host and moderator is Sam Radford.

Wisdom Speakers include Art Eve- 85 , Baba Eng-65, Viola Hill-98, Clifford Bell-88, Eva Doyle-71, Sam Radford-50, Krima Amin-70, Charley Fisher-63, L. Nathan Hare-67, Dawud Adeyola-70, Akua Kamau-69, William Peoples-77, Willie Underwood-52, Brenda McDuffie-63, Roger Blackwell-85, George K. Arthur-84, and George Alexander-65 making it a total of 1,222 Years of Wisdom! Now more than ever we must come together! Sponsored by C.A.O. of Erie County For more info contact Bro. Sam 578-3571 or Bro. Bill 533-6283

Incumbent Timothy B. Howard has been declared the official winner in the race for Erie County Sheriff after the count of outstanding absentee ballots.

With fewer than 1,000 ballots left to count, the race still remained close, but Howard actually gained 300 votes and was leading 110,585 to Tolbert’s 106,898; making it impossible for Tolbert to overtake him.

African Heritage Food Cooperative Annual Food Drive The African Heritage Food Cooperative (AFHC) will be having its annual nonperishable food drive to assist working families that do not qualify for government assistance.

Members and supporters of the AFHC are asked to bring non-perishable food items to the Edward Saunders Community Center, 2777 Bailey Avenue on December 16 between the hours of 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Our hope that by helping families with your donations and by giving back to the community, these families will have a joyous holiday this year.

Attention-Masten Park, Fruitbelt, Kingsley Block Clubs & All Residents Residing In The Jefferson & Best Area Attention-Masten Park, Fruitbelt, Kingsley Block Clubs and all residents residing in the vicinity of the Jefferson and Best area, we need your help!!!!

Please attend TOP Inc. Community Forum where we will discuss our Mission: “Build People-Build Community," Thursday December 7 from 6-8 p.m. at the Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Ave. at E. Utica.

HOLIDAY GREETINGS!

“YOU CAN REPLACE A BROKEN WINDOW… BUT YOU CAN’T REPLACE A BOY’S EYE OR HIS LIFE" Community activists call for a full Investigation into the shooting of a 12-year old boy accused of throwing a rock thru the window of an East Buffalo homeowner, who responded by using deadly force.

D

etails are sketchy.

But what we do know is that according to reports a 12-year old boy was shot in the face after throwing a rock thru the window of an East Buffalo Resident’s Quincy Street home in the city’s Broadway/Bailey neighborhood shortly before noon.

The youth, who turned 13 since the incident about a week and a half ago, remains in Children’s Hospital. He has undergone 10 hours of surgery. He lost his right eye, he has shot gun pellets lodged in his brain, a collapsed lung, a blood clot, a damaged esophagus and swelling on the brain according to a family member.

At press time there had been no charges or arrests in the case, which authorities say is under investigation.

Community activists want to make sure that investigation is thorough.

Lou DeJesus, of the Buffalo Anti-Racism Coalition, called the shooting “an abuse of any idea of self defense" to shoot at a kid that committed vandalism who is fleeing.

A homeowner for over 20 years, DeJesus said she has also had her windows broken.

“A broken window is not a death sentence…you can replace a window…but you can’t replace a … boy’s eye or his life.”

Victoria Ross, Executive Director of the Western New York Peace Center, also finds the shooting troubling and said what is needed is a full investigation.

“Violence is an epidemic and its raging out of control,"she lamented She said that people should be criminally liable for shooting first and asking questions later.

“There is no violent solution…violence cannot drive out violence," she said, “violence begets violence.”

Erie County Legislator Betty Jean Grant of We Are Women Warriors said she was devastated when she learned of the shooting of a 12 year old boy who threw a rock and broke a window.

“While we all have a right to protect our property and ourselves from bodily harm, I have not read or heard of any action, minus the throwing of the rock, that would justify the shooting especially since the youth was still in the yard and his motivation for throwing the rock is still unknown.”

Mrs. Grant said that concerns of many citizens in the community prompted her to call the Erie County District Attorney’s office for an update on the status of their investigation. As of this writing, she said "they have not called me back."

Paul McQuillen, Upstate and WNY Coordinator, New Yorkers Against Violence, in a letter to District Attorney John Flynn called for criminal charges to be placed against the shooter, 61-year-old Edward Bald.

Bald, who was in violation of various sections of the New York Penal code, he continued, “took it upon himself to dispense justice, by means of a lethal weapon, in broad daylight...

While, of course, we recognize the state law permitting defense of one’s home, that right does not grant unlimited, unsighted and wanton shooting.”

“Throwing a rock and breaking a window is certainly not a home invasion…..and it'rs not a threat of deadly physical harm to this individual," he told the Challenger -Troubling“This shooting is disturbing not only because a 12-year old was shot in the face, but the lack of justice and due process seems all too familiar related to how society sees young Back boys,” said Katrinna Martin-Bordeaux, president of Young Black Democrats.

“It is also troubling because there is a lack of investigation into this shooting and no accountability for what I see as a disregard for life and the reckless use of a firearm.”

Bordeaux said she questioned some of the recent statements made by the shooter to various news agencies.

“The homeowner professed to firing a warning shot through a hole in his window caused by a rock thrown through his window, and by his own statement, his reaction was to fire his weapon …speculating that the object thrown through his window was an attempted home invasion.”

Taking issue with that premise, she questioned how he could have known that the rock breaking his window was an attempted break in and not just vandalism. And vandalism does not Continued Page 12

Freedman’s Bank The Freedman’s Savings and Trust Company, better known as the Freedman’s Savings Bank, was a corporation established by the U.S. Congress for newly freed Blacks to gain financial footing. The bank, while successful in its early days, ran afoul of corruption and mismanagement before it was shut down for good, but not without some lasting benefit.

The bank was officially established in March 3, 1865 by clergyman John Alvord and abolitionist A.M. Sperry in 1864 to house monies of the emancipated. President Abraham Lincoln signed the bank’s official opening into law and soon after, many began using its services. Freedman’s Savings was linked to the Freedman’s Bureau Act, which was a series of programs and services to assist newly emancipated former slaves.

At its height, the bank housed up to $57 million across several states including Washington, D.C. While most accounts were small, a significant portion of deposits were high for the time and thus showed the power of both Reconstruction and the viability of adding Black folks to the economy.

However, the bank faltered around 1874 due to mismanagement of funds. The allwhite board of trustees moved to shut down the bank as a result.

Abolitionist Frederick Douglass used $10,000 of his money to keep the bank in operation and became its president. But the bank’s troubles were too much to overcome and Douglass recommended to Congress it close its doors.

Source:BlackAmericaWeb.com

4

NATIONAL + WORLD

- Briefs -

Homeland Security Head: ‘Lazy’ Blacks Turned ‘Cities To Slums’ An appointed official in the Department of Homeland Security came under heavy fire after revelations about his racist remarks about Blacks on conservative radio.

Rev. Jamie Johnson, the department’s head of faith-based and neighborhood partnerships, made derogatory comments in 2008 that recently resurfaced in a CNN report. He said African Americans were to blame for having turned cities into “slums” in a radio interview on the “The Right Balance” on Accent Radio Network.

“And it’s an indictment of America’s black community that has turned America’s major cities into slums because of laziness, drug use and sexual promiscuity,” Johnson said during that 2008 discussion.

He abruptly resigned amid the racially charged controversy.

By Any Means Necessary...

The Israeli cabinet will deport 40,000 African asylum seekers — including 27,500 from Sudan and 7,800 from Eritrea against their will. The government also approved a measure to close the by 2018 the Holot detention center, a facility in the southern Negev desert which currently holds above 1,000 asylum seekers. The Africans, who fled their home countries to escape economic hardship and political repression, will be given a choice: leave Israel for a third country, presumably Rwanda or Uganda in three months, or suffer indefinite detention in Israel.

Israel will pay Rwanda $5,000 for each African migrant it accepts, and $3,500 to each African who leaves. The Israeli government will even cover the airfare.

Netanyahu referred to the policy as one of “increased removal” of the “infiltrators,” the derogatory term used for these African people. “Minister Aryeh Deri, who introduced the deportation proposal, arguing the steps were necessary to “return peace and quiet” to the country, and “the right policy to ease the suffering of residents in south Tel Aviv and other neighborhoods where the infiltrators reside.”

Culture Minister Miri Regev has called the African refugees “a cancer in our body.”

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 29, 2017

Migrants From West Africa Being ‘Sold in Libyan Slave Markets’

A

fter a critical CNN report showing Footage of African migrants being sold at auctions in Libya has been circulating the internet, and many are shocked and highly disturbed that human beings are being sold at modern-day slave auctions by smugglers in Libya for as little as $400, the new investigation has revealed.

Migrants are trying to reach Europe via North and along the Libyan coast, smugglers have racked up hundreds of thousands of dollars putting migrants on the perilous journey to Europe on rickety boats across the Mediterranean Sea. Desperate migrants make their way through sub-Saharan Africa—either west or east—to Libya, a near-failed state wracked by years of civil war and lawlessness, to pay substantial sums to traffickers in hope of a new life on European shores.

According to the investigation, cell phone footage showed African men being sold, offered as one of the “big, strong boys for farm work.”

In the Libyan capital of Tripoli, an auction was witnessed for a man whose price rose from 500 dollars to $650. Some were sold for just $400, less than half the median weekly earnings of an American worker.

“Does anybody need a digger? This is a digger, a big, strong man, he’ll dig,” an auctioneer said.

“What am I bid, what am I bid?”

Libya, which has fallen into a void since the death of Muammar Gaddafi, is the last stopping point on the continent before migrating the treacherous Mediterranean to Europe. Hundreds of thousands of Africans from countries all over the continent have attempted to travel to Europe in recent years, resulting in thousands of drowning deaths.

-Country of Rwanda Offers RefugeIn one of the most extraordinary responses, the Rwandan foreign ministry offered to provide asylum to 30,000 mainly sub-Saharan Africans trapped in Libya in slave-like conditions.

“Given our own history ... we cannot remain silent when human beings are being mistreated and auctioned off like cattle,” the foreign ministry said. During Rwanda’s 1994 genocide, 800,000 ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hutu were massacred in 100 days while most countries did little to help. Rwanda was at the center of one of the largest refugee crises of the 20th century and two million fled the nation to neighboring countries.

He said Rwanda stands in solidarity with its “African brothers and sisters still held in captivity.We are ready to work closely with theAfrican Union, the private sector, as well as other friends and partners to ensure that we can provide minimum comfort to those in need.”

Libyan officials have condemned the practice of slave trading but said that they required more support from the international community.

The United Nations held an emergency session last Wednesday, calling the practice a “crime against humanity” and many Parisians took to the streets last week in protest -the majority of them being Black on the Champs-Élysées and it went bad . There have also been street protests in Belgium and London.

In Libya itself, Arabs have taken to social media to show their solidarity with Black migrants.

African Union Condemns Libya 'Slave Markets The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, has learned with dismay of reports on the auctioning of African migrants in Libya as slaves. Following the communiqué of the Chairperson of the Union, Professor Alpha Conde, he strongly condemns these despicable acts which are at odds with the ideals of the Founding Fathers of our Organization and relevant African and international instruments, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights.

The Chairperson of the Commission has called for an immediate end to these practices and other criminal acts of human trafficking. He urges swift action to identify all perpetrators and accomplices, with a view to bringing them to justice. In this regard, he welcomes the announcement by the Libyan authorities of an investigation into these criminal acts and looks forward to a credible outcome. He further urges the Libyan authorities to do everything in their power to improve the conditions of African migrants on their territory.

Tens of thousands of migrants, many of them from West Africa but also Bangladesh, Somalia, Sudan and Eritrea, are being held in camps and warehouses on the Libyan coast, hoping to reach Europe.

HUGE 50% OFF SALE PLUS 30% �

Saturday December 9 11-Spm & Sunday December10 Noon-Spm LAYAWAY AVAILABLE

Louis Kallinikos & Sons

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS

5

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 29, 2017

DECEMBER 1st IS WORLD AIDS DAY

America’s Black Gay And Bisexual Men Have Higher H.I.V. Rate Then Any Country In The World

T

hanks to the success of lifesaving antiretroviral medication pioneered 20 years ago and years of research and education, most H.I.V.-positive people today can lead long, healthy lives.

In cities like New York and San Francisco, once ground zero for the AIDS epidemic, the virus is no longer a death sentence, and rates of infection have plummeted. In fact, over the past several years, publichealth officials have championed the idea that an AIDS-free generation could be within reach — even without a vaccine. But in certain pockets of the country, unknown to most Americans, H.I.V. is still ravaging communities at staggering rates.

Last year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, using the first comprehensive national estimates of lifetime risk of H.I.V. for several key populations, predicted that if current rates continue, one in two African-American gay and bisexual men will be infected with the virus. That compares with a lifetime risk of one in 99 for all Americans and one in 11 for white gay and bisexual men. To offer more perspective: Swaziland, a tiny African nation, has the world’s highest rate of H.I.V., at 28.8 percent of the population. If gay and bisexual African-American men made up a country, its rate would surpass that of this impoverished African nation — and all other nations.

The crisis is most acute in Southern states, which hold 37 percent of the country’s population and as of 2014 accounted for 54 percent of all new H.I.V. diagnoses. The South is also home to 21 of the 25 metropolitan areas with the highest H.I.V. prevalence among gay and bisexual men. Jackson, the capital of Mississippi, the country’s poorest state, is best known for blues, barbecue and “The Help.” It also has the nation’s highest rate — 40 percent — of gay and bisexual men living with H.I.V., followed

by Columbia, S.C.; El Paso; Augusta, Ga.; and Baton Rouge, La. In Jackson, a small city of just over 170,000, half a dozen Black gay or bisexual men receive the shock of a diagnosis every month, and more than 3,600 people, the majority of them Black men, live with the virus.

The South also has the highest numbers of people living with H.I.V. who don’t know they have been infected, which means they are not engaged in lifesaving treatment and care — and are at risk of infecting others. An unconscionable number of them are dying: In 2014, according to a new analysis from Duke University, 2,952 people in the Deep South (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas) died with H.I.V. as an underlying cause, with the highest death rates in Mississippi and Louisiana. Among Black men in this region, the H.I.V.related death rate was seven times as high as that of the United States population at large.

“It’s deeply troubling when 50 percent of African-American gay men are expected to get H.I.V. during their lifetime, but it’s also been a clarion call for all of us to improve on what we’re doing,” said Dr. Jonathan Mermin, the director of the C.D.C.’s National Center for H.I.V./AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, S.T.D. and TB Prevention. “What we have been trying to do is ensure that we’re having the greatest effect with the resources we’re provided.”

-Excerpted from The New York Times Magazine, June 6, 2017 “America’s hidden HIV Epidemic”

Code Blue Emergency Shelters Protect Homeless From Cold “Code Blue” is the City of Buffalo’s emergency weather safety plan that provides outreach, engagement, case management, transportation, shelter and a warm meal to Buffalo’s homeless population on evenings when temperatures and wind chill fall to 15 degrees or below from November 15 to March 15. This year’s Code Blue Shelters are located at: The Matt Urban Hope Center- 385 Paderewski Drive, St. Luke’s Mission of Mercy- 325 Walden Avenue and Harbor House- 241 Genesee Street. Also when temperatures decline between 16 to 32 degrees services will be available at Matt Urban Hope Center and Harbor House shelters (St. Luke’s will be closed these nights) as well as a daytime warming center located at Harbor House.

Western New York on track to end the HIV Epidemic Erie County recognizes World AIDS Day on December 1, 2017. This marks the third year of New York State’s aggressive campaign to End HIV by 2020. The End the Epidemic (EtE) initiative made New York the first State in the nation to identify and adopt strategies that would change the course of HIV infections. These strategies are 1) Make HIV testing truly routine (part of health maintenance). 2) Ensure that all HIV infected persons are linked to care and are on proper medications. This will maximize their viral suppression. Research proves that people who are virally suppressed have a negligible chance of transmitting the virus to their partner(s). 3) Provide biomedical interventions to uninfected persons who may be at risk of becoming infected, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) or Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP).

“Thirty years ago, New York was the epicenter of the AIDS crisis. Today I am proud to announce that we are in a position to be the first state in the nation committed to ending this epidemic.”

Governor Andrew Cuomo April 2014

Natural Ingredients: Eat to Live!

Fruits, Grains, Green Vegetables & Legumes

*Fruits-Add sweetness to life (and to food). Become familiar with the vast range of citrus and other fruits, and begin to use these energy and vitamin treasures for snacks, desserts, arid the foundation of fruit-based meats, such as fruit bowls and smoothies. *Grains and Whole Grain Products-Brown rice, barley, millet, corn, oats, couscous, buckwheat groats (kasha), bulgur wheat, and products made from them; i.e., cereals, flour, pastas, breads, etc. Store In dry, covered containers in cool area. *Green Vegetables-High in protein, vitamins and minerals. Get to know and love them: Collards, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cucumbers, kale, dark lettuce, mustard greens, spinach, swiss chard, endive, zucchini, asparagus, etc. Herbs-Oregano, basil, dill, sage, rosemary, garlic, ginger, all your favorites that add the spice to life. They work great in vegetable stews, casseroles, arid grain loaves. *Legumes-Protein Bonanzas! Anything that grows in a pod. Of best use to the body when eaten with whole grains; 2 1⁄2 parts grains to 1 part legumes. Beans of all types (kidney, pinto, navy, lima, soy, aduki, etc), lentils, chick peas (garbanzos), alfalfa and mung bean sprouts, etc. Use In soups, stews, tacos, chili, casseroles, mash into sandwich spreads, etc.

6

FAITH & FAMILY

National Wreaths Across America™ Day National Wreaths Across America Day is Saturday, December 16. The ceremony begins at noon at Pine Lawn Cemetery 2957 Harlem Road @Genesee. The National Theme for 2017 is “ I'm an American. Yes, I Am.” Pine Lawn Cemetery, an official Wreaths Across America (WAA) location, will host a wreath-laying ceremony, joining more than 1,200 other locations across the country for National Wreaths Across America Day, coordinated and led by local volunteers. The Johnetta R. Cole AMVETS Post No. 24 will be placing wreaths on the headstones of our fallen service members. This annual event seeks to further the WAA mission of Remember, Honor, Teach, ensuring that the memory of those who served our country endures. Speakers will be Veterans, active service members and families. All are welcome.

Zion Missionary Baptist Church November Prayer And Fasting Zion Missionary Baptist Church is once again hosting the “Repositioning the Body of Christ Through Prayer and Fasting” Monday mornings at 6 a.m. for the month of December. Please join us December 4, 11 and 18 at 179 E.Ferry. For more information contact the church office at 886-1362. Rev C.M. Jenkins II is Host Pastor.

WNY Interdenominational Congress of Young Preachers Join the WNY Interdenominational Congress of Young Preachers for our One Day Christmas Revival, “Immanuel.” For one night only we will celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. This will be an evening filled with word, worship, and fellowship. Come hear powerful inspirational messages from Minister Malik Fuller of First Calvary Baptist Church and Pastor Nicholas Irion, the senior pastor of Centennial A.M.E. Zion Church. Also, our celebrant will be Minister Ahmad Randall of ELIM Christian Fellowship. This revival will be a time of ecclesiastical unity and a refreshing move of God. Service will be held December 22, 7pm at First Calvary Missionary Baptist Church located at 467 William St. Buffalo, New York. Don't miss it! See you there!

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 29, 2017

TRUE BETHEL TO HOST 7TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BAZAAR The True Bethel Baptist Church Senior Ministry will host its 7th Annual Christmas Bazaar Saturday, December 2nd from 10AM to 3PM. This year’s Bazaar will be held at True Bethel Baptist Church 907 E. Ferry Street Campus.

This is a one stop shopping event which features such items as designer bags, hats, scarves, perfumes, oils and much more. By shopping with us you will be supporting various local small business owners with gifts and ideas for the entire family.

For more information about this event or applications to be a vendor please contact the church at 895-8222.

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

C.R. Productions Gospel Concert C.R. C.R. Productions presents a Gospel concert at Prince of Peace Church of God in Christ December 3 at 5p.m., 669 Kensington Ave. with The Visionaries, Pastor Deas and Family,The Mount Calvary Specials and The Gospel Diamonds of Buffalo plus The New Gospel Times, Truly Committed and the All New Dynamic Dixie Wonders of Rochester. For more info call 716 597-2165, 716 838-0389 or go to 3329-3330 Bailey Avenue for tickets.

FAITH & FAMILY

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 29, 2017

Ellen Pauletta Peoples, Buffalo’s First Black Female Fire Fighter Retires After 26 Years of Service

I

t was 1991 and a 5'4", 120 pound Ellen Peoples showed up for day one of her training as Buffalo's first Black female firefighter.

Her presence was a surprise to everyone, even her own parents. She hadn't told anyone in her family she was studying for the exam.

Most surprised was her father, Conde Peoples, who was already one of the very few Black firefighters in the city himself. His reservations subsided as he reminisced over his daughter's roughand-tumble upbringing. This would be the same fearless, sensible, brave woman charging into buildings, he thought to himself, and he had little to worry about.

Ellen grew up with brothers older than her. Having someone to play with meant keeping up with the boys, and she did so with gusto. She described herself as a real ashykneed, fence climbing, dirt under her fingernails tomboy.

She was a fearless adventurer.

Ellen went to Burgard Vocational High School, where she was one of only two girls in the entire school, and studied aviation mechanics. As a result, she was no stranger to being in an almost all male environment.

After finishing at Buffalo State College, She knocked around town as a substitute teacher, waited tables, taught aerobics classes, and even did a four-year stint as a member of the Buffalo Jills cheerleading squad. In fact, it was her ambition to make it as a Cowboys cheerleader that moved her to Dallas, Texas. After a few years, it was her attachment to family that brought her back.

It was the early 90's, yet Buffalo was still light years away from a sensibility that could even imagine a Black mayor. On top of being the first Black female, Ellen was only the 10th woman hired as a firefighter. She knew there

7

MICHIGAN STREET

BY NANETTE D. MASSEY

would be opposition wherever she went and vowed to be a professional no matter what, believing professionalism would trump all things in the end. Ellen explained that women in this profession had to make a decision early on about just being "one of the boys" or setting immediate boundaries. The fire houses were no strangers to off-color remarks, bawdy conversations, even pornography. One of her fire houses even had a tacit agreement with the neighborhood "working girls" that the house was eventually cited for.

"There is a fine line for women," she said, "and it's tough to draw." The same man she might have had to call to account for his behavior might be the same man she would need to count on later for a life-saving decision or a leg-up to her next position.

Ellen’s mother encouraged her to start from the beginning demanding the respect she deserved as a woman co-worker.

Ellen battled for a long time for lavatories for women.

Of the nineteen houses open when she started, only six had anything resembling separated showering accommodations and commodes for women. A bathroom might seem like a small thing. For Ellen and other women it posed limitations such as choices for where they wanted to be stationed, overtime hours available to them, opportunities for advancement, not to mention just plain having a work environment where a woman can feel safe. Ellen took her concerns to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission on more than one occasion. Other women were afraid to join their names to the action, and each time nothing moved forward.

Out in the field, Ellen's fierceness was never in question. She drew a fire call on her first night on the job. She remembered it was the night

before Thanksgiving. Sent up to the top floor of a burning structure, she charged in ahead of her supervising officer. She knew she was being tested for hesitation or panic, and she jumped right in. They slapped her on the back and broke out the good beer to acknowledge her when they got back to the station.

She exemplifies the benefit of diverse backgrounds among emergency response personnel by recalling that there were many instances where she was the only Black person on the scene.

Once they were summoned to a home where a young boy called because he smelled smoke. As soon as she and her White partner entered the house, Ellen recognized the smell of a hot comb against dry hair. The woman doing her hair was shocked the boy called 911 and began yelling at him out of panic. Ellen's partner wanted to call the police on the woman for her spirited outburst towards the boy, and the whole situation could have gone irretrievably sideways if it weren't for Ellen's own life long experiences in Black women's beauty salons. She was able to calm everyone involved down, and they left the home without a hot comb becoming the lead story on the six o'clock news.

Ellen would love to keep going, but a shoulder injury has put her on the sidelines. What

MichiganStreetBuffalo.org

Ellen Pauletta Peoples: Buffalo's First African American female firefighter, has retired. A celebration in her honor will take place Thursday, Nov. 30 at the Landmark on Pearl at 6 p.m. call 507-8696 for more information.

she will miss most about the job is the active, hands-on involvement with her community. She usually lived in the same neighborhood as the station she worked in and was likely to personally know the people at the calls they were responding to. Ellen loved the visibility, the respect the uniform afforded, and the opportunity to use her visibility as an inspiration, encouraging everyone

she engaged with to know that they too could make a difference in their respective communities.

The city sends Ellen Peoples off with a retirement party Thursday night at 6 p.m. at the Landmark On Pearl event facility at 318 Pearl Street in downtown Buffalo. Tickets are $45 and can be acquired at https://www.eventbrite. com/e/ellen-peoples-retirement-tickets-38850275219.

A Soulful Christmas: A Celebration of African American Holiday Traditions Saturday, December 9 Noon-5pm FREE The day will include: Freedom Wall Spotlight and Tribute Museum Tours Storytelling Pictures with Kente Claus Vendors Food Trucks A Tree Lighting Ceremony A Gospel Concert Caroling Children’s Activities (Make a Kwanzaa/Christmas ornament, write a letter to Santa, cookies and hot chocolate!)

Special guests and surprises!

Thank you to our Michigan Street sponsors: City of Buffalo, New York Power Authority, Erie County of New York State, The State of New York

8

Entertainment

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 29, 2017

Paul Robeson Theatre Kicks off Holiday Season with August Wilson's 'Ma Rainey's Black Bottom'

ON STAGE *THE LION KING: Shea’s Buffalo Theatre, Dec. 13-JA. 7; 866870-2717; LionKing.com

I

t's 1927 in a rundown studio in Chicago where Ma Rainey is recording new sides of old favorites.

However more goes down in the session than music in this riveting portrayal of rage, racism, self hate and exploitation. “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” is one of the plays in August Wilsons Century Cycle – chronicling the African American experience.

The production is directed by veteran actor/director/writer/producer Willie W. Judson Jr. Judson has studied theater at both Buffalo State and Daemen Colleges, and specialized in the Stanislovsky method of theater training. He co-founded and serves as Artistic Director of the People of Drama Acting Ensemble, with whom he has written, directed and produced 18 original plays. His experience spans more than 40 years in the theatre and numerous productions throughout Western New York. His credits include directorial, stage, television and film.

The ensemble includes Sandra Gilliam, Rachel Henderson, Leon Copeland, Ricky Needham, Sean Farrell, Tuhran Gethers, Roosevelt Tidwell, Al Garrison and Marcus Thompson Jr. “Ma Rainey’ Black Bottom” opens Friday, Dec. 1 and runs thru Dec. 24 Fridays and Saturdays at 8p.m. and a Sunday matinee at 4p.m. with an audience talkback to follow the performance.

Willie W. Judson Jr. A special gift from the Paul Robeson Theatre on the closing weekend makes all tickets $20 so bring your family, visiting relatives and show off your local theatre!

For more information call 716-884-2013 or to purchase tickets online aaccbuffalo.org for group information paulrobesontheatrebuffalo@gmail.com

Jazzology Pays Tribute To Cold Springs!

J

azz music, authentic history and somber memories are what's contained in this current production being held at The Daily Planet Bistro on Hertel Avenue, December 10th at 6:00 p.m.

Leading the ensemble is the Joe Giambra, a great musician, whose deep-seated roots permeates throughout this entire city in varied arms. Rounding out the group is Rick Carfa, guitarist Chuck Buffamonte of Anchor Bar fame, and thespian Ernest "Buzzy" Griffin. Though known

for his work at Paul Robeson Theatre (AACC), This is not a play, it is more like a vocal exchange.

This is a story that highlights the glory days of the community of Cold Springs. From the Eastside to the West. From Bailey Avenue to the river banks of Ferry Street.

Cultural relationships are examined from positive and challenging perspectives. In addition to a wide range of other sentimentalities.

The jewel in the crown of this original script is its references to the hot spots of the past. You old timers may recall joints like Max-

els, Revolt, Moon-Glo, Chez Ami, Zanzibar, Little Harlem, the Blue Note and many more.

There are famous individual names mentioned who were outstanding members of the community that you are sure to remember. Along with some classic institutions such as Offerman Stadium, Weber's Meat Market, The Aud, Dan Montgomery's, Bethel AME Church and a host of others.

There is a plethora of star-studded information that will be revealed.

You will be amazed at the historical cultural worth that this town has and how unaware you were of it.

I'm thrilled to be performing with these outstanding professionals. Joe and I worked together in the currently playing movie, Marshall.In the lastest collaboration, I get a chance to do a little scatting and some gospel. It's gonna be a fun time and an informative evening. See you there!

--Ernest "Buzzy" Griffin

World AIDS Day Event Legacy Sound and FX: music festival supports ending AIDS A youth-led organization, titled Leaving Our Legacy, is presenting Legacy Sound and FX on Friday, December 1st. This free music event is open to all ages and will showcase local artists from 7-11 p.m. at the CRUCIAL Center, 230 Moselle Street.

There will be live musical genres ranging from hip hop to acoustic R&B and punk. Food will be provided. Free HIV testing available

*BUFFALO SOUL REVUE featuring MR. CHALMA paying homage to some of Buffalo’s music legends, music by Gregory Tredwell & The GLV T Band, hosted by David Allen Power 96.5, Saturday Dec. 2 @ 8 p.m., Colored Musicians Club, 145 Broadway; Admission $15; tickets at African American Cultural Center, 350 Masten, 884-2013; All proceeds to benefit the African American Cultural Center. *Buffalo City Ballet Presents The Nutcracker: Dec. 2 @ 7 p.m. & Dec. 3 @ 3 p.m. at Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Arts, 450 Masten Ave. Admission $20 & $18; 833-1243 to reserve seats or visit Buffalocityballet.org online to reserve. *BUFFALO OPERA UNLIMITED Tim Kennedy, Artistic Director presents THE MAGIC FLUTE by W. A. Mozart Abridged version, sung in EnglishFully-staged with orchestra at Rockwell Hall Performing Arts Center1300 Elmwood Ave.Friday, December 1 at 8p.m., Children’s activities at 7p.m.; Sunday, December 3 at 2:30 p.m., Children’s activities at 1:30 p.m. TICKETS:$30 general, $25 senior, $10 student.

Available at Rockwell Hall Box Office, 878-3005; online at www.buffalostatepac.org *Garth Fagan Dance 2017 Home Season: Nazareth College Arts Center Wed., Nov. 29 @ 7:30 p.m.; Thursday Nov. 30 @ 8 p.m.; Friday Dec. 1 @ 8 p.m.; Saturday Dec. 2 @ 2 p.m. Matinee with Garth Fagan Dance Student Ensemble ; Saturday Dec. 2 @ 8 p.m. and Sunday Dec. 3 @ 2 p.m. Matinee with Garth Fagan Dance Student Ensemble. For more info 585-389-2170 or artscenter@naz.edu; Tickets www. naz.edu/artscenter

*Marsha McWilson Christmas Concert Saturday, Dec. 9 from 6-10 p.m. Niagara Catholic High School in Niagara Falls, featuring Richie Derwald and Steadfast. For tickets visit

www.marshamcwilson.com and www.markwebermusicblog. com.

*Musical Word-Jazz Presentation featuring Joey Giambra, guitarist, Chuck Buffamonte, pianist, Rick Carta and actor Ernest Griffin will present " Joey's Cold Springs I'm Home: A Jazz Story" on December 1 at 6 p.m. at Daily Planet Coffee, 1862 Hertel Avenue - ( corner of Parker).

You may bring your own wine.

Tickets $30. Seating is limited; reservations suggested . E Mail Joey Giambra at Panecip@aol. com Hope to see you there.

9

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 29, 2017

STAY GOLD: THE BURCHFIELD PENNEY ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

The Center will exhibit Western New York Urban Arts Collective works to mark anniversary. Public is invited for live music, workshops, ballads, site-specific installations and the unexpected Friday, December 8, 5:30 pm – 11 pm.

L

ast year the Burchfield Penney Center Art Center at SUNY Buffalo State presented GOLDEN celebrating the Center’s 50th anniversary. By design, the cultural happening drew large, diverse crowds from our neighbors throughout this region. Between 3,000 and 4,000 visitors stormed the Center for site-specific installations, live music, workshops, and wide-ranging creativity not just in the galleries but the hallways, stairwells, and secret nooks and crannies of the entire building. The experience created so much buzz it will now be an annual anniversary celebration.

STAY GOLD will take place Friday, December 8, 5:30 pm – 11 pm. The public is invited to an evening of art, music and the unexpected! Admission is free and open to the public. All ages are welcome.

The Western New York-Urban Arts Collective (WNYUAC), the newly formed organization assembled to unite and promote African American artists, will showcase eight artists to mark the anniversary celebration. Curated by John Baker, IMAGES (of US by US), will feature works by Kobie Barber, Niaja Boles, Renee Brown, Kerima Collier, James Cooper III, Betty Pitts Foster, Iris Kirkwood and Mark Gaston Pearce. “From realism to abstract, the exhibition is a creative interpretation of culture and identity,” said Baker.

“The WNY-UAC is grateful to the Burchfield-Penney to present this diverse portfolio

of work.” The installation will be on view thru April 1, 2018.

“Stay Gold was designed to remind The Center and our community that we are still growing, developing and excited about it,” said Heather Gring, Burchfield Penney Archivist and event leader. “It reminds us to stay true to our roots of exploration and innovation in the arts, and stay inquisitive, open and genuine.

We will showcase local artists and musicians, all in one night.”

The event also includes performances by Jillian Hanesworth, Fragrance, Juan Stan-

Artist Iris Kirkwood, Past Tears

field, Josh Smith and a dance party set by DJ ToneyBoi. For the full line-up, go to www. burchfieldpenney.org.

10

GENERATIONS

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 29, 2017

Winter Artisans Market

poetry

A Winter Artisans Market will take place at North Park Academy, 780 Parkside Ave.December 2 and December 16 from 9 a.m.- 12 noon .

Get your holiday shopping out of the way while enjoying fun and free activities for the whole family!

Activities include: Sports with the Police Athletic League, Buffalo Zoo Mobile, Literacy Workshops, Animal Adventures, Yoga (mats are provided), Chess, Arts and Crafts, and so much more! Free Breakfast and Lunch will be provided. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

When You Thought I Wasn’t Looking…

When you thought I wasn’t looking You cleaned up after my brother and I And I felt loved.

SUPPORT FOR BUILD: The community answered the call Nov. 11 to come out and show its support and offer input and ideas on how to save BUILD Academy. It was a successful gathering, attended by parents, teachers, school board members, concerned citizens, BUILD Principal Kevin Garcia and Dr. Kriner Cash, School Superintendent. A host of ideas were shared and there were many pledges of support from community stakeholders. Proud students are pictured above following an awards ceremony. A lot of positive things are happening at the school contrary to the receivership issue. The struggle to keep BUILD Academy continues.

LINKS HOLIDAY GALA 2017 The Buffalo Chapter of The Links, Incorporated will host the 2017 “Swing Into the Holiday Season” Friday December 8, at the Millennium Hotel, 2040 Walden Avenue Cheektowaga.

“Swing Into the Holiday” is a charity fund raiser to donate books and toys to children in the Buffalo community as well as provide scholarships for area college bound high school students who have performed well academically but may lack funding to attend college.

Entertainment will be provided by the Larry Salter’s Soul Orchestra of Buffalo, New York. Featured vocalist for the evening is Alissa Todd, of Niagara Falls, New York.

TO SPEAK HERE: Dr. RegThere will be line dance instructions by Ernestine Wilson, as inald Brothers, former Secrewell as “Lip Sync-ing” performed by the Buffalo Links. tary for Science and TechnolVendors, include Janie’s Emporium, Kenmore, New York and ogy at the U.S. Department of Desma Reid-Coleman St. John Knits -Detroit, Michigan.

Homeland Security, will lead Guests are asked to bring an unwrapped gift or book to support an in-depth dis­cussion on emthe community toy drive for children. The donation is $40 ployment in the age of STEM To purchase tickets & for more information call 716-832-0326. (Science, Technology, Engi neering and Mathematics).

The workshop is free and will take place from 4:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. at East Community We Are Women Warriors will be holding their 2017 end of the High School, 820 Northampyear meeting at the Frank E. Merriweather Library on Wednesday, ton Street). The event will December 6, at 5:30 p.m. The meeting will be held to review and also serve as a precursor to the discuss the successes of the group and also to reflect on what re- school's Access to Jobs Pipemains to be addressed in 2018, among them, the unresolved status in line program, which will bethe Cariol Holliman-Horne and John Walker & the 'Buffalo 5' cases. gin on December 6th with an In addition to all We Are Women Warriors members, we are request- orientation. ing all women-oriented groups such as W.A.V.E., No More Tears, As part of the program, on WOMEN and others to join us as we work to develop a strategy and Monday and Wednesday evea plan to work together in 2018 to help develop a more productive nings, adults can gain tips and safer community for all of us. for obtaining an entry level The meeting will end at the Merriweather Library @ 7:45 Pp.m. position, and tools needed to After that we will go across the street to the Buffalo Empowerment Center, 1327 Jefferson Ave. for further networking and refreshments enhance their skills. East will of chicken wings and pizza. You are welcome to bring your young also begin to work with the children as we have a limited amount of notebook paper, folders, University of Buffalo durspiral notebooks and other school supplies to give away to those ing its evening Parent STEM who may be running short before the holiday season break for Buf- activities into iall community falo Public Schools. These supplies will be given away on a first offerings.

We Are Women Warriors' End of Year Meeting

come-first serve basis until we run out. The distribution of these items will be at 1327 Jefferson immediately after the discussion in the library. For more information, please contact Esther Smothers @ (716) 894-0914 or Betty Jean Grant @ (716) 602-5877.

When you thought I wasn’t looking You did my laundry and Organized my clothes And I felt very special.

When you thought I wasn’t looking You put clothes on our backs And shoes on our feet And I was very grateful.

When you thought I wasn’t looking You put food on the table no matter what And I felt very thankful.

When you thought I wasn’t looking You put money in my savings And I felt lucky.

When you thought I wasn’t looking You listened to what I had to say And I felt important.

When you thought I wasn’t looking You comforted me when I was feeling sad And I felt loved When you thought I wasn’t looking You always kept it “real” and told me the truth And I felt very trusted.

When you thought I wasn’t looking I looked And I wanted to say thanks mom And ‘gamma’ for all those things you did for my brother Damir and I When you thought I wasn’t looking…

-By Sanaa Jones, Age 12 (Dedicated to my Mom, and my Grandma aka “Gama”)

Happy Hoidays

VOICES

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 29, 2017

As Thou Hast Done…The Roy Moore Scandal is All About Us

M

uch of the country is aghast as the Alabama Republican legislature refuses to withdraw support from Senatorial candidate Roy Moore, who has been accused publicly by nine women of sexual abuse while they were teens.

News outlets are twisting themselves into pretzels trying to avoid a discussion of the true reasons for that refusal, despite the fact that many believe the women’s accounts. It’s not “tribalism,” or “partisan politics.” It’s not about a Republican obsession with a single issue like abortion or gun control or tax cuts, for which they want votes. It’s not about the sanctity or safety of young girls. It’s not that party has become a religion, where party affiliation for Republicans takes precedence over all other concerns. Though you’ll hear all these motives hoisted high in the attempt to explain the fanatical support of many Alabamians for former Judge Roy Moore, none of it is true. The hidden issue underlying all the uproar – is us.

Yes… the hidden controversy that permeates the core of politics in America and the Roy Moore scandal is the raging Civil War that didn’t end in 1864, but continued as a covert operation. The surrender at Appomattox didn’t settle the question - the one that’s always been the litmus test for political candidates. Will Black people advance in America as empowered, equal participants in the society, or will they remain perpetual, new-age slaves in an America that’s “great again?”

In a recent speech where former judge Roy Moore waxed heavily nostalgic with Civil War lore, he reminisced on the effort to preserve the world as he knew it, traveling through the insertion of the words “under God” in the Pledge of Allegiance in 1954, during the Eisenhower administration. Next, the cherished moment when the words “In God we trust” were added to the nation’s currency. True to form, Moore couches his longing for the old ways as he and his ilk have always done, under a veneer of religious postulates. He continues in the reverie, and with just a few crafty sentences, assures his listeners of who he is. “But what have we done today?” he asks. “Are we still standing in that faith? Or have we forgotten it? By 1962, the US supreme court took prayer out of school. Bible reading followed. … Then, they started creating new rights in 1965. And today we’ve got a problem.”

And there it is. The Voting Rights Act, (1965), and the Civil Rights Act, (Fair Housing Act), (1968) signed into law by Lyndon B. Johnson have created a “problem.” The fact that Black people were afforded the right to vote, and to be treated fairly

when securing housing… is a problem. That tiny hint speaks volumes about the true ethos undergirding a few key words that suffice to make the point.

Roy Moore’s supporters know exactly who he is, and what agenda he’ll fight for as a United States Senator. Justice for the girls even they believe he molested is not a factor. The safety of women and girls he may target in the future, from a more powerful position than ever before – is irrelevant. But that makes sense. This is Alabama. This is the deep south, where White women like Alabama Governor Kay Ivey have always stood by their men as they made rape the very condition of enslaved Black men, women, and children’s lives. As the enslaved were conditioned by that experience, so were they who imposed it.

Roy Moore is doing what his fathers have done for centuries, with the bone-deep conviction that it’s his right to do so. His wife, his governor, and so many other women supporters are doing what they’ve been conditioned to do – look the other way - even as the pathology metastasizes, engulfing and savaging their own girls.

As what goes around comes around, even the alleged victims of Roy Moore’s depravity are reaping what they have sown.

These women are Trump supporters! These women listened to the cries and trauma and pleas of others, who begged us to believe their violation at the hands of Donald Trump. Their response? To help to usher him into the most powerful position in the nation. They listened to Trump’s own voice on tape, describing how he groped women’s private parts, and now they want somebody to care - that Roy Moore groped theirs. They want to be validated. Even though Moore can’t be prosecuted, they want to tell their truth, and have it matter. They do not want their community to reward their abuser with more prestige and power. They should have thought of that last November, when they assaulted the majority of the country with “President” Donald J. Trump. As Thou hast done… so shall it be done unto you. The Governor of the state – a woman – has said without batting an eye that she has no reason to doubt these women’s stories, but will cast her vote for the Republican nominee. Damn.

Right in yo face.

As for Trump, Moore, and the network of structures that uphold this wicked nation built on slavery, oppression and death… don’t worry about it. Sit back and watch the melee as those who have inflicted so much backbiting, betrayal, and fratricidal conflict become consumed by it. If Satan cast out Satan, how can his kingdom stand? Obviously, it can’t. And since a rising force pulls apart a falling force… rise. Plan your work, and work your plan. Converge with like minds to leverage the power of unity… and build the just and beautiful world that will replace the one that’s falling. Act like you know what they know.

It’s over.

11

A Respose To Critics of the African American Monument Dear Editor: Two letters recently appearing in Everybody's Column of the local daily newspaper essentially voiced opposition -- to the African American Veterans Monument -- which will be at the Buffalo Naval and Military Park.

One writer questioned -- if a monument -- solely confined to US African American military participants wrongfully would amount to a "continuous visual message" applying the philosophy of "equal but separate" -- instead of integration.

No, it would not! Similarly, the rightful monument (included at the naval park since 2013) commemorating Hispanic-American veterans (past, present and future) does not indicate separation.

Both attempt some remedy for the historical omission of acknowledgement for both groups expansive years of commendable service, for the US. The other writer said erecting a monument for black veterans, only, would be strange and would look like segregation "plain and simple." He added that he knew of no monument based on skin color anywhere in the world.

Wow! It's indisputable most monuments in America, exclusively and purposely, have white subjects. It's obvious but not highlighted.

Dr. King said, "nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance."

Enough said! Let's look forward to the completion of the long overdue national memorial structure.

(PS -- It was reported on wivb.com that donations can be made in assistance. The story included a link to do so, however it's no longer working.) -Kat Massey

dear editor

Reader Says Cosby Conspiracy Commentary On Point Dear Editor: The commentary in your November 15, issue,"Cosby Conspiracy Comes Home to Roost" by Sabirah Muhammad was an history lesson on how to destroy a prominent Black man legally.

Their scheme seems to have backfired and the creeps of White men in positions of power have shown their inability to be real men. Hopefully, if Sabirah's essay is read Black people will begin to understand that Bill Cosby was another victim in the 500 year war by White people against Africans.

-Roy St.Claire

TOLBERT THANKS SUPPORTERS, REFLECTS ON SHERIFF'S RACE I placed a call to Sheriff Howard the morning after the eletion to congratulate him on his apparent win and also to tell him that, given the extraordinary closeness of the race, I believeed it is prudent and sensible to await the official vote certification by the Erie County Board of Elections, which includes the tally of all absentee ballots.

way, not just managed on the margins. This is not one individual or one office’s problem, it is a community problem, here in Western New York, across the New York State, and throughout the nation.

Not only was it a close race, it was a tough, hard fought contest. Strong words were used and sharp elbows thrown on both sides. However, it is now time to put all of that behind us and work together for our community.

My love for our community is what motivates my desire to serve. Western New York is a special place, the best place on earth. I was reminded of this time and time again as I campaigned throughout the county. I will always cherish the support and fellowship I encountered in every town, village and election district.

The men and women in uniform who protect us – in the sheriff’s office and every law enforcement agency in the county – all have my respect and appreciation. The growing problem of the jails becoming catch basins for the addicted and those suffering from mental illness has to be addressed in a bigger

Our values in Western New York are hard work, dignity in who we are, and respect for each other. We are the community of good neighbors and good friends. We help each other out, we don’t turn our back. Let’s raise up those values. Let’s show the nation that we are one community working together for every-

“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

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

P: 716 881.1051 F: 716 881.1053

one’s greater good.

Thank you to everyone who supported my campaign, who marched with us, rang doorbells, made phone calls, watched the polls, and rallied voters. I am blessed to have had your support. -Bernie Tolbert

BCAT High School Student Showcase Buffalo Center for Arts and Technology (BCAT) High School students will exhibit their fine arts projects and photography created in BCAT’s Afterschool Arts Program during the first trimester from 6-8pm on December 1st, 2017. Videos will be also be featured by students enrolled in the Buffalo Youth Media Institute (BYMI), a program where BCAT partners with Squeaky Wheel Film & Media Art Center. Additionally, the BCAT vocal ensemble will perform selected songs at 6:30 and 7:30.

This event is free and open to the public.

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

• Ad Deadline: Friday 5 p.m.

• Classified Deadline: Thursday 5 p.m.

We respectfully submit that the opinions expressed on the editorial pages of this newspaper

are not necessairly those of Challenger Community News Corporation or its advertisers.

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

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

12

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 29, 2017

Western New York Law Center: One Of Buffalo's Best Kept Secrets! Part 2 Legislator Miller-Williams Proudly Champions Frederick Douglass More Good News From the WNY Law Center: Walk-In Legal Clinics!

Affordable Housing in Buffalo

By Nanette D. Massey Erie County Legislator Barbara MillerWilliams has again shown her support and advocacy for the continued revitalization of her community at the November 16th session of the Erie County Legislature.

Legislator Miller-Williams passed a resolution empowering the Erie County Executive and the City of Buffalo to enter into an agreement with Frederick Douglass I 2017 Barbara Miller Williams LLC to revitalize affordable housing projects on Jefferson Ave. and Clinton St., based on a payment of over $23,000 for 15 years, escalating 3% each year. The arrangement will allow Erie County to receive 25% of each annual payment and the City of Buffalo 75%.

To facilitate Phase I of the redevelopments, the agreement’s relief will help keep the projects afloat and avoid an unforeseen financial crux. The use of “PILOT” agreements, an abbreviation for payments in lieu of taxes, have been beneficial in keeping projects funded in the past, and the Erie County Legislature’s sustained embracing of them are a positive approach in spurring and maintaining development in the region.

“I am proud to have supported this PILOT agreement to continue spreading prosperity to every citizen of the City and ensure each section is a vibrant part of the greater whole. The renovation of these existing units will revitalize its surrounding neighborhood and hopefully spur better things to come in the future for our great City,” stated Legislator Miller-Williams.

First constructed in 1999, the existing project site is an 87-unit multi-family rental housing project that utilizes low-income housing tax credit equity and other affordable housing funding sources. Since opening for occupancy in 2001, the buildings have experienced wear and tear that most buildings face. With the new PILOT agreement, Legislator Miller-Williams hopes to bring the buildings and others like it back to life to allow them to continue housing their many families and residents.

L

ast week we introduced readers to the Western New York Law Center and the work it does dispensing legal help in civil law matters to area residents at no charge. We continue our coverage by highlighting WNYLC's regular walk-in legal clinics.

The project is called Civil Legal Advice and Resource Office, or CLARO. These two hour open sessions are held Tuesday evenings at BFNCH Hope Center on Jewett Avenue, Friday mornings at Buffalo City Court downtown on Delaware, twice a month at ACCESS of WNY in Lackawanna, and once a month at the Willie Cotton Community Center in Lackawanna. People needing legal help with matters such as judgements against them, garnishments, utilities collections and a host of other issues can get straight answers here.

The clinics are staffed by lawyers and law students. Clients have the opportunity to meet with them one-on-one to discuss individual particulars of their own predicament, and there is no limit on the number of visits. Come prepared, hypothetical questions will only lead to incomplete information and the ne-

Sisters In Season

BROKEN WINDOW/SHOOTING continued from page 3

meet the criteria to use deadly force.

“A shooter must be in eminent danger, specifically when the 12 now 13 year old in question never entered his residence. The only clear fact is that an object broke his window,” continued Ms. Bordeaux.

There was reportedly more than one child present during the incident and it is highly unlikely that the shooter fired without taking direct aim at his target based on the youngster’s injury she said.

“There needs to be an unbiased investigation into the shooting, and I would like to see the shooter charged with a crime and the evidence placed before a grand jury for a potential indictment.

“There must be a clear message that says we will not tolerate the maltreatment of our people regardless of living in a highly impacted Black community,” She concluded.

shooter look like the ultimate victim.

-First Reportsinitial media reports about this tragic shooting were clearly designed to make the

Family members are asking for prayers.

Many in this community are asking for justice too. -a.b.

Never mind that this was a 12 year old boy who was blasted with a 20-gauge shotgun in broad daylight. Never mind that a broken window was the only visible “justification” for this deadly use of force.

The shooter reportedly told authorities that all he saw was someone wearing a hoodie. In some circles, that is a code word for thug.

One news story made sure that readers knew he was in a “dangerous” neighborhood.

He had two attempted breakin attempts in the past – one in 2015 and one in 2004. Then the story cited “three homicides this year within three blocks of Bald’s home on Quincy.”

But we are talking about a broken window and a young boy who thew a rock.

Latoya Monique Horton, Marlena Edwards ,Terri L Davis, Shelby Jeannette Thompson, Ellen Pauletta Peoples, LaKisha Willis (Not pictured Jakina Grimes and Geneal Wagstaff).

Seven amazing African American female firefighters of the Buffalo Niagara Region were recognized by The Links, Incorporated – Erie County (NY) chapter at the annual Sisters in Season event. An elite group of females were highlighted whose accomplishments and contributions have embraced the role women play in shaping their communities. Since the Link’s program inception in March 2012, the chapter has been chronicling and preserving individual stories in order to expand the historical perspective of residents in Western New York and use the information as a resource.

Mary Ruth Kapsiak and Parette Walker read abbreviated biographies of each of the honorees as they were presented to the membership and guests. The common theme of each of the firefighter’s stories was establishing a new norm by breaking down barriers and courageously making the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. As trailblazers and legacy builders, they have cleared the path which has brought change to the culture of the fire department not only in WNY but for future generations of female firefighters throughout this nation. Each honoree received a proclamation from Major Brown, recognizing their bravery, courage, steadfastness and commitment to service.

Firefighter Ellen Pauletta Peoples, a Buffalo native, joined the Buffalo Fire Department in September 1991. She was the tenth woman hired and the first African American female. During the event she challenged each of her colleagues to live out their dreams: “It’s the strong sense of belonging and the camaraderie we share that propels us to the next level. I pass the torch of pride to my sisters who are dream catchers, servant leaders called to serve.” Program co-chair Redahlia Riggins presented each honoree with a beautiful gift to symbolize the organization’s gratitude for their service.

cessity for a second trip. The lawyers ask that clients bring all papers, bills, relevant correspondences, and a complete copy of any related court file in their possession.

A common conundrum lawyers at these clinics see are cases where very old debts seem to spring out of nowhere.

Too often this scenario happens with elderly people. You will receive a call saying you owe $1500 to J.C. Penney. You know you used to have a credit card with them so it all seems legitimate, and you go ahead and agree to a payment plan.

Kate Lockhart of WNYLC says should you get such a call, "don't pay it! Get it in writing and bring it to us first!" Routinely, these debts have long been written off as a loss by the original creditor, but the right to continue attempting to collect on it has been sold to a collection agency for pennies on the dollar. If you do not answer them, they will usually move along to another debtor. If you do pay even five dollars towards it though, that debt becomes reactivated and will likely show up in your current credit history again as outstanding.

Through the CLARO clinics, a lawyer can get a copy of your credit report at no charge and help you determine your next course of action. In fact, as is the case for many seniors, circumstances may render you "judgement proof." Creditors cannot garnish your money if you have no assets and your income comes from sources such as social security benefits, veteran's benefits, civil service retirement benefits, or child support.

"Don't pay a dime until you talk with someone" restates Ms. Lockhart.

Connie Joyce, Community Outreach Coordinator for WNYLC, recalls the story of a war veteran who got such a notice in the form of a letter, leaving him quite unsettled. He lived in a rooming house and collected bottles to afford cigarettes. The letter offered to get this debt squared away for around ten dollars a month, which he would likely have been paying for decades to come. A concerned neighbor brought the veteran to one of the open clinics where they were able to run his credit report, compare it to the demand in the letter, and determine that in fact he had no obligation to this collector. The veteran was grateful for the help of the lawyers and his neighbor, without whom he may never have heard of CLARO. The CLARO clinics see a lot of newly settled refugees to Western New York. Ms. Joyce recollects the circumstance of parents from Syria who were having trouble with their new baby's birth certificate. The first and last names had been alternated, causing havoc for the family in even the most mundane of undertakings. This daunting problem was solved by WNYLC with a few simple phone calls. Another refugee was up against a $1200 fine while trying to import cocoa bean hulls, a common gardening mulch in his home country. The mulch appeared to look like wood chips, requiring an entirely different shipping protocol. WNYLC was able to help this man get the package released with a written letter from a lawyer to the proper authorities.

Ms. Joyce punctuates that "not everything we do here is necessarily about working miracles. Sometimes all that is needed from us is just the untangling and the heavy lifting. We want people to know that even for the simple, day to day things you can come to us and we will say 'yes, we can help you.'"

The Western New York Law Center is at 230 Main Street in downtown Buffalo. Their phone number is (716) 855-0203.

You can find them online at wnylc.com or, of course, on Facebook.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 29, 2017

NEW BUSINESSES LLC -LEGAL NOTICENOTICE of FORMATION of a DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Name of LLC, T- N-T Rental Properties, LLC Date of filing of Articles of Organization with the NY Dept. of State: June 5, 2017. Office of the LLC: 82 Stonham Way Williamsville, NY 14221 Erie County. Contact: Theodore Brinson (716) 444-1278.

The NY Secretary of State has been designated as the agent upon whom process may be served. NYSS may mail a copy of process to the LLC at 82 Stonham Way Williamsville, NY. Purpose of LLC: Rental Assistance and Property Management. No specific duration attached to LLC. Nov. 15,22,29 Dec.6,13,20 -LEGAL NOTICENOTICE of FORMATION of a DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Name of LLC, RET Freedom LLC, Date of filing of Articles of Organization with the NY Dept. of State: August 9, 2017. Office of the LLC: 1000 Jefferson Ave, Buffalo, NY 14204 Erie County. Contact: Timothy Hogues (716) 818-6637. The NY Secretary of State has been designated as the agent upon whom process may be served. NYSS may mail a copy of process to the LLC at 1000 Jefferson Ave, Buffalo, NY 14204. Purpose of LLC: Rental Assistance and Property Management. No specific duration attached to LLC. Nov. 15,22,29 Dec.6,13,20 -LEGAL NOTICE-

ADMalcolm Construction Management LLC. Art of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/11/17. Office: Erie County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 212 Wallace Ave, Buffalo, NY 14216. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Nov. 15,22,29 Dec.6,13,20

-LEGAL NOTICENOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Ximi Underneath filed Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on the 1st day of November, 2017. Office location: Erie County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served upon him or her to: 33 Weber Ave, Buffalo, NY 14215.

Purpose: Any lawful act or activity.

Nov. 15,22,29 Dec.6,13,20 -LEGAL NOTICENOTICE OF FORMATION OF A DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Name of LLC: Pleasant Ride Transportation, LLC. Articles of Organization November 7, 2017 Office of LLC: Erie County.The NY Secretary of State has been designated as the agent upon whom process may be served. Mail to : 120 Easton Ave. Buffalo, NY 14215.Purpose of LLC: Any lawful purpose permitted for LLC under NY Limited Liability Company Act. NOV. 15,22,29 DEC. 6,13,20

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.

LEGAL NOTICE STOX Ref: Smith File#50306

LEGAL NOTICE

ERIE - INDEX NO.: 813566-2016 SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS. Plaintiff designates ERIE COUNTY as the place of trial based upon the location of the premises herein described as Section 90.21, Block 3, Lot 16, Buffalo, NY, County of Erie COMMUNITY RESTORATION CORPORATION, PLAINTIFF, -against- JUANITA P. SMITH, if living, and if she be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or generally or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs-at-law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through, or under them and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs-at-law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff, CAPITAL

COUNTY OF ERIE REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL ENGINEERING SERVICES On Call General Civil & Geotechnical The County of Erie is seeking proposal statements from qualified engineering firms to provide on-call general civil & geotechnical engineering services. County goal of 15% Minority, 5% Women Business Enterprise participation is required. Proposals must be received by the County’s Commissioner of Public Works, 95 Franklin Street, Suite 1400, Buffalo, NY 14202 until 2 PM EST on Tuesday, December 12, 2017. RFP submission instructions may be found at: www.erie.gov/dpw/

ONE BANK, MRC RECEIVABLES CORP., MICHAEL WEINER, COMMISSIONER ERIE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES, MIDLAND FUNDING LLC DBA IN NEW YORK AS MIDLAND FUNDING OF DELAWARE LLC, NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, JOHN DOE #1 through JOHN DOE #12, the last twelve names be-

LEGAL NOTICE RFP NFTA Procurement Invitation to Bid 4719 - REMANUFACTURER OF TYPE B VITAL RELAYS 4722 - CONSULTANT FOR ADVANCED TRANSPORTATION AND CONGESTION MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES DEPLOYMENT PROJECT 4745 - RAIL GRINDING SERVICE Download Bids from www.nfta.com

ing fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, DEFENDANTS. YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the Plaintiff's Attorney within 20 days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this Summons and Complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered against you and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action.

YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated:

Syosset, New York, November 21, 2017. Peter T. Roach & Associates, P.C., attorney for Plaintiff, 6901 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 240, Syosset, NY 11791. Tel: 516-938-3100. To the above named defendants: The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Dennis E. Ward, a Justice of the Supreme Court, State of New York, filed with the Erie County Clerk on July 6, 2017 together with the supporting papers thereon. This is an action to foreclose a mortgage held by Plaintiff on the premises known as Section 90.21, Block 3, Lot 16, Buffalo, NY, County of Erie as described in the complaint on file and commonly known as 36 MORRIS AVENUE, BUFFALO, NY 14214. 50306-2

ROOMS

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

(716)818-3410.

I T PAYS TO ADVE RT I S E

Email legals & classifieds to: advertising@thechallengernews.com • Deadline Fridays @ 5pm LEGAL NOTICE BIDS ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Sealed bids for Project Nos. 44822C, 44822-H, 44822-P, 44822-E, comprising separate contracts for Construction Work, HVAC Work, Plumbing Work, and Electrical Work, Provide Maintenance Sub headquarters, DOT Region 5, Route 16, Town of Farmersville, Franklinville (Cattaraugus County), NY, will be received by the Office of General Services (OGS), Design & Construction Group (D&C), Division of Contract Management, 35th Fl., Corning Tower, Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12242, on behalf of the Department of Transportation, until 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 13, 2017, 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 $94,100 for C, $23,900 for H, $22,300 for P, and $23,700 for E. All successful bidders 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 $3,000,000 and $4,000,000 for C, between $500,000 and $1,000,000 for H, between $250,000 and $500,000 for P, and between $500,000 and $1,000,000 for E. Designated staff are Jessica Hoffman, Carl Ruppert and Pierre Alric in the Division of Contract Management, telephone (518) 474-0203, fax (518) 473-7862 and John Lewyckyj, Deputy Director, Design & Construction Group, telephone (518) 4740201, fax (518) 486-1650.

As a condition of award, within 48 hours of receipt of the proposed Contract Agreement from the State, the low bidder shall return the Contract Agreement to the State, properly executed, along with the Bonds if required by said Agreement. Low bidders who cannot meet these provisions may be subject to disqualification and forfeiture of the bid security.

The State intends to expedite award of this Contract and the Contractor shall be prepared to proceed with the Work accordingly. Bidders are warned that time is of the essence of the Contract and substantial completion of the Work must be within 924 days after the Agreement is approved by the Comptroller. Due to the tightness of the construction schedule, bidders should consider the necessity for an increased work force and shift operations.

The only time prospective bidders will be allowed to visit the job site to take field measurements and examine existing conditions of the project area will be at 9:00 a.m. on November 30, 2017 at DOT Region 5, Cattaraugus County, 8088 Route 16, Franklinville, NY. For assistance pertaining to the site visit only, please phone Lauren Clausen (716) 885-0908.

Pursuant to New York State Executive Law Article 15-A and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, OGS is required to promote opportunities for the maximum feasible participation of New York State-certified Minority- and Women-owned Business Enterprises (“MWBEs”) and the employment of minority group members and women in the performance of OGS contracts. All bidders are expected to cooperate in implementing this policy.

OGS hereby establishes an overall goal of 30% for MWBE participation, 15% for Minority-Owned Business Enterprises (“MBE”) participation and 15% for Women-Owned Business Enterprises (“WBE”) participation (based on the current availability of qualified MBEs and WBEs). The total contract goal can be obtained by utilizing any combination of MBE and /or WBE participation for subcontracting and supplies acquired under this Contract.

The Bidding and Contract Docu-

ments 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 online 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 DC.Plans@ogs.ny.gov, or call(518) 474-0203.

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

John D. Lewyckyj, C.S.I., C.D.T. Deputy Director, OGS Design & Construction Group

13

EM P LOY M EN T Research Associate

Data analysis position at Via Evaluation open. Must have experience using Microsoft Excel & college degree. FT. EOE. Send resumes by 11/30/17 to komani@viaeval.com For more info:www.ViaEvaluation.com

JOB ALERT Hiring:

Hotel PositionsDaytime/Overnight Valet Room Attendant For more information visit UnilandEmployment.com

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.

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE

BID

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 on the associated dates for interested firms at MCI Office. Documents can be obtained by contacting the associated estimator, Phone 716-282-5244, Fax 716282-5245 or iSqFt®. Bids are due electronically or in person at 2368 Maryland Ave., Niagara Falls, NY 14305. Certified firms for associated goals are strongly encouraged.

UB South Townsend Hall Renovation Project in Buffalo, NY. Contact: pscheuer@markcerrone.com.

MWBE Meeting: 12/20/17 @3:30pm.

MBE: 13%, WBE: 17%. Proposals due to MCI by 12/29/17 at 10:00AM. Prospect Point Pedestrian Entrance #D004921 Project in Niagara Falls, NY. Contact: gbostard@markcerrone.com. MWBE Meeting: 12/13/17 @3:30pm. MBE: 13%, WBE: 17%.

Proposals due to MCI by 12/18/17 at 10:00AM.

BID

COUNTY OF ERIE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES 95 FRANKLIN STREET BUFFALO, NEW YORK County of Erie, New York RFP RELEASE The Erie County Department of Social Services is seeking proposals from qualified agencies to provide Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CPEP) diversion services. The RFP #1727VF can be found at http://www.erie.gov and a complete copy of the package can also be obtained by contacting Carrie Godfrey, ECDSS, at 716-8586086, or via Carrie.Godfrey@erie. gov.

All correspondence, communications and/or contact with the County in regard to any aspect of this proposal shall be with the ECDSS contact person listed on the specific RFP. Prospective proponents, or their representatives, shall not make contact with or communicate with any representatives of the County, including employees and consultants, other than the designated person in regard to any aspect of this proposal.

Final sealed proposals are due to the Erie County Department of Social Services, 95 Franklin Street, Room 804, Buffalo, New York 14202, by 4:00 p.m. (EST) on December 13, 2017.

Erie County reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and waive any informality.

Al Dirschberger, PhD., Commissioner of Social Services

14

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 29, 2017

NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS SUN 11/19

MON 11/20

TUES 11/21

WED 11/22

MID-9-3-8

MID-3-1-6

EVE-7-4-0 EVE-1-7-5

EVE-6-8-1

EVE-1-1-2

WIN 4

MID-4-1-8-9 EVE 0-1-0-5

MID-7-5-6-9 EVE-9-5-1-4

MID-9-0-0-5 EVE-8-2-6-7

MID-1-3-9-7 EVE-1-3-9-7

TAKE 5

01-17-19-35-38

03-15-25-31-35

15-20-33-34-36

3-WAY

MID-8-9-2

01-11-13-17-19

FRI 11/24

SAT 11/25

EVE-8-7-1

EVE-9-5-6

EVE-4-3-1

MID-9-0-2-3 EVE-6-5-1-7

MID-5-1-1-7 EVE-0-5-2-7

06-07-18-35-38

09-13-14-23-25

MID-6-0-8

MID-2-4-3

MID-6-8-0

MID-8-3-4-4 EVE-4-5-4-7 03-08-14-23-29

04-09-28-37-43-48 #57

LOTTO

HOT TIPS

MID-2-4-9

THURS 11/23

4018

022

064

648

Zakiyyah’s Rundown (ZR) 981-253-679-350-156-847-605-580-470-547-491-165-990-256035-068-475-176-970-370-198-513-522-809-507-647-350-760919-513-891-558-047-060-307-491-507-912-107-047-311-567239-865-791-085-473-165-789-247-567-543-136-705-892-965135-679-510-460-570-153-268-393-803-118-030-637-326-479 MA RUTH SPEAKS THE TRUTH! SURE HITS! 242-000-111-777-989-123125-436-515-600-349-675652-986-568-853-578-168

NOVEMBER Vibes 289-163-654-890529-236 quick money 189-809-444 886-980-422 322-522-355 800-592-390 394-833-924 127-909-418 927-313-466 124-550511-005/201

“It’s In The Stars”

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

02-14-21-23-38-44 #10

996

515

140

Challenger Hits

9-3-8 Sagittarius , Capricorn (box) 3-1-6 ZR, November (box) 8-9-2 ZR (straight) Aries (box) 2-4-9 Sagittarius, Quick Money(box) 6-0-8 ZR, Number Book (box) 2-4-3 Sagittarius , Capricorn, Luckie Duckie (box) Gramma’s Picks (straight)

Evening

7-4-0 ZR (box) 1-1-2 Luckie Duckie (box) 8-7-1 Cancer, Number Book (box) 9-5-6 ZR ,Tarus (box) 4-3-1 Virgo, Luckie Duckie (straight) Luckie Duckie (box)

GAMMA’S NOVEMBER PICKS

793-563-867-296-243-738

NOVEMBER Best Triple - 666 NOVEMBER Special Doubles 556-911-255-677

100 NUMBER OF THE MONTH

Positive thoughts are neessary to bring to reality the outcome you desire

ELECTRICAL

LAW OFFICE OF DARIA L. PRATCHER, PC “Everything Real Estate” 523 Main Street (716)541-8574

EMPIRE ELECTRIC (716) 634-0330

AUTO

2372 Genesee St. (716) 894-3742

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

648*123*104*820

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

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

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

Colston Mobil Auto Repair

716 E. Ferry (Near Fillmore)

(716) 896-3910

BAIL BONDS GIST BAIL BONDS

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

BOOKS

LUCKIE DUCKIE

12/06/2016 Evening 12/06/2016 Midday 12/05/2016 Evening 12/05/2016 Midday 12/04/2016 Evening 12/04/2016 Midday 12/03/2016 Evening 12/03/2016 Midday 12/02/2016 Evening 12/02/2016 Midday 12/01/2016 Evening 12/01/2016 Midday 11/30/2016 Evening 11/30/2016 Midday 11/29/2016 Evening 11/29/2016 Midday

ATTORNEYS

BEN’S Downtown Tire

Midday

THE NUMBER BOOK

advertising@thechallengernews.com

2016

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

DOCTORS RAPHA FAMILY MEDICINE Frances IIozue MD 2200 Main St. (716) 200-4122

DOG TRAINING DOGMAN’S K -9 Obedience Training

1963 Fillmore Avenue (716) 807-8163

FASHION F& S Fashions

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

HAIR SUPPLY MAIN HAIR & BEAUTY SUPPLY 3067 Main St. (716) 862-4247

HOME IMPROVEMENT HOMEOWNER;

Free Roof Check, Lead Test, All Home Repairs, Payment Plans, Everyone Approved 380-3459

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

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES MEREA WORLD Transportation Service Specializing in Round Trip & Over Night Trips Text or call 716 939-8892

15

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 29, 2017

WEDNESDAY NOV. 29

THURSDAY NOV. 30

THURSDAY NOV. 30

Hustle for Health Senior Program : Gloria Parks, 3242 Main St. 11am - 12pm. FREE Line Dance Fitness for ages 55+ 716 832 -1010.

HEAP OUTREACH: Delavan Grider community center, 877 Delavan Ave., 9 a.m. – 4 pm, 894-0914 or 602-5877.

Art Opening : A Conversation About Conservation “-opening reception 4:30-6:30pm Buffalo State College - Atrium Gallery Rockwell Hall, 1300 Elmwood.

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.

Urban Line Dance Classes: St. Phillips, 15 Fernhill ; 6-8 p.m.; Cheri & Darel 200-9702.

THURSDAY NOV. 30 Retirement Celebration to Honor Ellen Pauletta Peoples Buffalo’s First African American Female Firefighter: 6 p.m. ,The Landmark on Pearl, 318 Pearl Street. Donation $45 advance, $50 at the door. For more info or to RSVP call (716) 507-8696.

FREE Coffee House for Youth Ages 12 to 18: Open Mic Session & Workshop 7–9 p.m., Gloria J. Parks Community Center, 3242 Main Street. For more info call 716-832-5085.

Foxie Brown Line Dance Classes: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Schiller Senior Center, 2057 Genesee St. 444-2046.

FRIDAY DEC. 1 Buffalo Center for Arts and Technology (BCAT) High School Student Showcase: 6-8p.m. Free .

Chicago Steppin: Every Friday 7-8:30 p.m. The Pratt Center 422 Pratt St.

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.

TOOL FEST at The Foundry: 5:30 - 8pm 298 Northampton Street. $10 entry without a tool, Bring a tool to donate = Free Entry .Ticket info 885-1381.

Art Opening: Artist Rodney Taylor - New Works opening reception 6-9pm Nina Freudenheim Gallery 140 North Street Hotel Lenox.

Hustle for Health Fitness & Finance BONUS CLASS: Learn how to do more with less this Christmas. Free talk followed by line dance 3242 Main 12pm SATURDAY DEC. 2 The True Bethel Baptist Church Senior Ministry 7th Annual Christmas Bazaar: 10a.m.to 3p.m. 907 E. Ferry Street.

UMOJA Convening of the Elders: Rafi Green Community Center, 1423 Fillmore; lunch 12 noon, program 1 p.m..

Mike’s Smooth Urban Ballroom Dance Classes: 11 a.m.

– 1 p.m. Delavan-Grider Community Center, 877 E. Delavan.

380-5100. $5 Hustle for Health line dance class for all ages 820 Northampton St. 11:30a.m. - 12:30p.m., Followed by free lunch. W Winter Artisans Market: North Park Academy, 780 Parkside Ave. 9a.m.- 12 noon.

SUNDAY DEC. 3 Power 96.5 FM Holiday Party: 3:30PM,Tralf Music Hall, 622 Main $15.

MONDAY DEC. 4 African Consciousness Workshop: Frank Merriweather Library,“Contradiction – A Question of Faith, 6-8 pm, Free Community Workforce Development Discussion: East Community High School, 820 Northampton St., 4:30-6:45 p.m.;free & open to the publilc.

Hustle for Health Senior Program : Gloria Parks, 3242 Main St, NOON - 1pm. FREE Line Dance Fitness for ages 55+ 716 832 1010 TUESDAY DEC. 5 Charter School of Inquiry Regular Monthly Business Meeting: 4:45 pm, 404 Edison 716-833-3250

OVER 4 MILLION WEEKLY WINNERS ©2017 New York Lottery. You must be 18 or older to purchase a lottery ticket. PLEASE PLAY RESPONSIBLY. For help with problem gambling, call 1-877-8-HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369). nylottery.ny.gov

PUB: The Challenger

Ad Size: Half Page V

16

IMAGES OF US!

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •November 29, 2017

AMAZON BEAUTIFUL!OMEGA GENTS & OMEGA QUEENS! Pictured above are the 2017

Omega Gents and Omega Queens, participants of the Omega Mentoring annual ball held November 24 at the Hyatt Regency Downtown Buffalo. The theme of the ball was “Coming to Omega, ” A spin from the movie Coming to America. The Omega Gents and the Omega Queens performed an African themed step/hop show. The event also included performances by the African-American Cultural Center Drum and Dance Troupe. Congratulations Queens and Gents! For more information on how to enroll your son or daughter into the Omega Mentoring Program go to omegamentoring@yahoo.com

WHEN YOU SWITCH AND GET A SAMSUNG GALAXY J7 PRIME.

ENJOY THOUSANDS OF MOVIES AND TV SHOWS FOR A WHOLE YEAR.

HOLIDAY FUN! Promiseland Missionary Baptist Church hosted a safe, fun Haloweeen party for trick or treaters!

For MetroPCS store locations near you, visit www.metropcs.com/find-store.

Find us on Facebook, at MetroPCS

877-8metro9 metropcs.com

Follow us on Twitter, @MetroPCS

Valid only for purchases between November 16 and 30, 2017. The year of Amazon Prime has a $99 value. Requires activation on an unlimited high-speed data plan. Additional Terms and Conditions apply. See sales associate for details.

You must redeem your Amazon Prime membership code and agree to the Amazon Prime Terms to qualify for Amazon Prime membership by December 31, 2019. Your Amazon Prime membership automatically renews for the membership fee in effect at the time of renewal plus applicable taxes. You may cancel at any time by visiting Your Account and adjusting your membership settings. Valid credit card required at time of registration if Amazon does not have one on file. Amazon Prime membership codes cannot be transferred or resold. For more information about Amazon Prime, visit amazon.com/prime. Amazon.com is not a sponsor of this promotion. All Amazon ®, ™ & © are IP of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. General: Coverage and services not available everywhere. Rates, services, coverage, and features subject to change. MetroPCS features and services for personal use only. Service may be slowed, suspended, terminated, or restricted for misuse, abnormal use, interference with our network or ability to provide quality service to other users, or significant roaming. See store or metropcs.com for details, coverage maps, restrictions and Terms and Conditions of Service (including arbitration provision). MetroPCS related brands, product names, company names, trademarks, service marks, and other intellectual property are the exclusive properties of T-Mobile USA, Inc. ©2017 T-Mobile USA, Inc.