Challenger Community News October 21, 2015

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OCTOBER 21, 2015 • FREE

ENCOURAGING A CULTURE OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP PG. 10 ENTERTAINMENT

POLITICS

Newcomers Continue Their Campaigns for Fillmore, Masten, Ellicott Council Seats PG. 3

He Put The “Style” in Stylistics!

PG. 9

TRANSITIONS

LOCAL

Enough Is Enough:

Prayer for Peace in the Wake of Continued Street Violence

Russell Thompkins Jr.:

PG. 3

IN REM

AUCTION

The Legacy of Sharon A. Thomas

PG. 7

Facing Foreclosure? Here’s What You Can Do To Save Your Property!

PG.12

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INSIDE ROCHESTER

Challenger Community News • thechallengernews.com • October 21, 2015

AroundTown

First Sunday Gospel Sounds and Songs of the Past :

Gospel Sounds and Songs of the Past will be presented at St. Luke’s Tabernacle Community Church located at 1261 Dewey Avenue in Rochester, pastored by Bishop James Evans, every first Sunday of the month during a 5 o’clock afternoon service featuring Professor Marvin Rogers and his music ministry.

First Sunday, introduced in September, is a Service where the Voices of Tabernacle, along with the Marvin Rogers Singers, minister vocal praise accompanied by skillful musicians. Classic gospel music, solos and the great hymns of the church are presented in a power packed hour and a half. The sounds of the service will transform you to a place back in time. It will make you reminisce of days gone by. The artistry of Professor Rogers is second to none. He plays the piano with great skill and stumps his foot with mighty energy. The eight singers and three musicians, whose sound is much larger, are poised and professional, but that doesn’t stop them when the Spirit moves – they will throw up their hands and add a few extra words of praise to the songs. Whether they are singing The Lord’s Prayer or one of the gospel classics, the sound is electrifying. Audience participation is encouraged from the beginning to the end of the Service.

Baden Holiday Food and Toy Gift Card Registration The Baden Holiday Food and Toy Gift Card Project Christmas and Thanksgiving Food assistance registration will be held Monday, November 2 thru Wednesday November 25 from 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 2-4:30 p.m. at the Baden Street Settlement Emergency and Family Assistance, 152 Baden Street in Rochester. Call 3254910 ext. 1132, 1137 or 1136. You must live in the Baden Street service area.

Fifth Pastoral Anniversary for Rev. James C. Simmons The 5th Pastoral Anniversary Celebration for Rev. James C. Simmons will be held Wednesday, Thursday and Friday November 4,5 and 6.

On Wednesday Nov. 4 at 7 p.m. the guest preacher will be Rev. Kenneth Q. James, Pastor of Memorial AME Zion Church. On Thursday, Nov. 5 at 7 p.m. the Rev. Frederick Johnson, pastor of First Genesis Baptist Church will be the guest preacher.

The Anniversary Banquet will be held on Friday, November 6 at 7 p.m. at the Holiday In Downtown 70 State Street. Donation is $50 adults.

*Blood Drive hosted by the African American Leadership Development Program (AALDP) Class of 2014, Sat. Oct. 24, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. David F. Gantt Recreation Center, 700 North St. Gym; for info or to schedule an appointment contact Cliff at (585)576-4617 or call 1-800-Red-Cross or go to www.redcrossblood.org Walk-ins welcome.

*G4U Records presents the 5th Anniversary celebration and reunion concert of Rochester, NY’s own gospel super group Judah Oct. 24th @ 530pm doors open @ 4:30pm at Victory Living Christian Faith Center, 303 Jay st Rochester.

Tickets are $12 in advance and 15 at the door Featuring Judah, Vizion, SPECIAL GUEST Demetrius Ledbetter and Purpose from Fayetteville, NC, Next Generation, The New Gospel Times, Truly Committed, and more $12 in advance $15 at the door call 585-354-5440 for more *Black Friday Weekend Explosion 1: Friday, Nov. 27, featuring Enchantment, The Blue Notes, Intruders & The Deele; 8 p.m., Auditorium Theatre, 855 E. Main St. Rochester; Tickets $30; locations Ticket Master Outlets, MAD FLAVORS, 185 Lyell Ave., Auditorium Theatre Box Office. *Black Friday Weekend Explosion 2: featuring Avant, David Hollister, H-Town & Noel Gourdin, Sat. Nov. 28, Auditorium Theatre, 885 E. Main St., Rochester; 8 p.m.; tickets $48.50 advance; locations Auditorium Theatre Box Office, Ticket Master Outlets, MAD Flavors, 185 Lyell Ave., Rochester.

*The Rochester Association of Black Journalists’ “Salute to Excellence Gala,” 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at the historic Perkins Mansion, 495 East Ave. in Rochester. A fundraising event for RABJ’s “Wyoma Best Scholarship Fund’’ which assists collegebound students, the gala will honor photographer Rodney A. Young and journalist Cynthia Benjamin . Advance sale tickets are $50 until Aug. 31; $60 from Sept. 1 to Nov. 6.

Student tickets are $25. Individuals, businesses or organizations that want to be a patron or sponsor a table can contact gala co-chair Richard McCollough at (585) 4423728 or rmccollo@gmail. com. For more on the gala, visit RABJ’s Facebook page

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Challenger Community News • thechallengernews.com • October 21, 2015

AREA BRIEFS

3

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH: PRAYER FOR PEACE IN THE WAKE OF CONTINUED STREET VIOLENCE

Political Newcomers Continue Their Campaigns for the Fillmore, Masten and Ellicott Districts The hotly contested race for the Fillmore and Masten District Council seats in the September Primary resulted in victory for incumbent David Franczyk in the Fillmore District and Ulysees O. Wingo in Masten.

It was a historically low voter turnout . Across Erie County, only 7.5 percent of eligible voters actually cast a ballot.

On Tuesday, November 3, the race for Masten and Fillmore, in addition to the Ellicott District, will continue at the polls.

David Howard, Chief of the Buffalo Police Reserve Unit, has announced that he will be on the ballot on Suarez (left) and Heard. the Independence Party Line as he attempts to unseat Mr. Francyzk in Fillmore. Less than 1,000 votes were cast in that District during the Primary.

Yvette Suarez, who ran a spirited campaign for Masten is back again – this time as a write-in candidate in the November 3 election. Active in her community for many years, the former realtor holds a Masters in Urban Planning and is a Block Club President.

Although he was knocked off the ballot in the Primary, Terrance L. Heard recently announced that he’s back and running to unseat Council Member Darius Pridgen in Ellicott. Mr. Heard’s platform includes community focused economic development; accessibility to residents; Veterans housing; and stopping the spread of gentrification in the Fruit Belt, Town Gardens and West side.

Erika Webb Promoted to Deputy Chief Clerk Buffalo City Court Justice Paula L. Feroleto, Administrative Judge for the Eighth Judicial District, recently announced the appointment of Erika Webb to the position of Deputy Chief Clerk in Buffalo City Court.

Ms. Webb has worked in the court system for more than nineteen years. She started working in Buffalo City Court in 1996. In 2010 she went to work in State Supreme Court as a Court Clerk and returned to Buffalo City Court in January 2015.

Erika held positions of Court Office Assistant, Senior Court Office Assistant and Court Assistant, working in courtrooms with various Judges.

In addition to her career in the court Erika Webb system, Erika founded a non profit organization called Eagle Wings which focuses on mentoring young women and building self confidence through volunteer work on community projects.

Erika is the single mother of three children: Daryle, Eriell and Emmanuel. She is a member of the Greater Refuge Temple of Christ Church.

F

or the past five years, dedicated community workers and agents for change have gathered on street corners, in churches, and wherever else they were needed, to hold “Enough is Enough” prayer vigils for an end to the violence that has taken the lives of so many young people in our community. For the families of victims and hard working people in the neighborhoods that have been impacted by violence, they are a welcome sight; their bottom line conviction is that “prayer changes things.” The vigils were started by Rev. Darius Pridgen inside his church, True Bethel Baptist. George Johnson and his Buffalo United Front eventually picked up the crusade and took it to the streets. Today they are joined regularly by members of the Peacemakers, No More Tears, Buffalo FATHERS, MADDADS Stop the Violence, SNUG and other front line vanguard organizations and individuals. This Thursday, October 22 at 6 p.m. sharp, prayer will be held on the steps of Masten Park on Masten Street. “All are welcome to join us as we pray with the Goldsmith Family,” said Johnson. Jeraldine Goldsmith , a 52-year-old mother of seven was found brutally murdered on the steps of the park at Masten and Edna last October. Her family wants to create a mural at the park in her memory to transform the space into a symbol of hope.

Her killer has not been found.

Mayor Brown and Police Commissioner Derenda unveiled ‘Buffalo Police Department: 21st Century’ (BPD21) during a press conference at Mt. Olive Baptist Church.

New Police Academy Scholarship Program Designed to Revolutionize Community-Based Policing in Buffalo This week Mayor Byron Brown and Police Commissioner Dan Derenda unveiled the “Buffalo Police Department: 21st Century” (BPD21C). BPD21C is an innovative, first of its kind in the nation, police pre-employment scholarship program designed to provide scholarship opportunities for city residents who want to pursue a career in law enforcement. Up to 50 successful City of Buffalo residents may receive full scholarships to the Erie County-Erie Community College Central Police Services Law Enforcement Training Academy for the spring semester, beginning on January 18, 2016. The goal, explained Mayor Brown and Commissioner Derenda, is to make the department more reflective of minorities, women and immigrants.

APPLICATION PROCESS To apply for a BPD21C scholarship, City of Buffalo residents must complete and submit applications to the City’s Department of Human Resources by NOVEMBER 13, 2015. There are NO FEES for application or participation in this program. Complete application packets will be available at City Hall, at each District Police Station, at recruiting events throughout the City, and via the City’s website (www.city-buffalo.com) by downloading and printing an application, or by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the Human Resources Department. The WRITTEN ASSESSMENT will be administered on SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2015. Continued Page 13

Dr. Cheikh Anta Diop Senegalese-born Cheikh Anta Diop (1923 – 1986) received his doctorate degree from the University of Paris and was a brilliant historian, anthropologist, physicist and politician and one of the most prominent and proficient black scholars in the history of African civilization.

Contrary to the long-standing European myth of a Caucasian Egypt, Diop’s studies into origins of the human race and pre-colonial African culture established that ancient Egypt was founded, populated, and ruled by black Africans; the Egyptian language and culture still exists in modern African languages (including his own Wolof language) ; and that black Egypt was responsible for the rise of civilization throughout Africa and the Mediterranean, including Greece and Rome.

Diop also pioneered techniques of scientific research – such as carbon dating as a means of dating artifacts and remains, and the melanin dosage test which he used to verify the melanin content of Egyptian mummies. Forensic investigators later adopted this technique to determine the “racial identity” of badly burned accident victims.

Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar, Senegal, is named after him.

Source: cheikhantadiop.com

know thyself...

4

UPDATE LOCAL + NATIONAL + WORLD

Global Racism: Blacks are Three Times More Likely to be Tasered by Police Than Whites in Britain Despite attempts to sweep them under the rug, Britain has had longstanding problems regarding institutional racism, racial violence and police abuse against Black people, and the latest news on the use of Tasers in the UK bears this out.

Data from the Home Office in the UK tell the story: Blacks in Britain are three times more likely to have Tasers used against them.

Of 36,000 cases between 2010 and 2015, police used Tasers against Black people in more than 12 percent of cases, including those of African-Caribbean and mixed white and African-Caribbean origin, as The Guardian reported. Meanwhile, Blacks are subjected to this law enforcement weapon far beyond their numbers, as they comprise only 4 percent of the national population.

In addition, the data shows an increase in the use of Tasers against children under 18—522 times last year compared to 349 in 2010.

In one case, police used a Taser on a 9-year old boy, and in another instance against a 91-year old man.

According to data from the London Assembly, as many as 30 percent of people Tasered by the London police are mentally or emotionally distressed, while half of those Tasered are Black or from other racial and ethnic minority groups. Labour MP Chuka Umunna, a high profile Black lawmaker, has called for an investigation.

The release of the data comes amid growing tensions between police and communities of color. Further, despite an overall drop in the number of youths in police custody, the percentage of Black youths in jail jumped 37.5 percent, and the proportion of mixedrace youths increased 50 percent between 2012 and 2014.

The Campaign Against Police and State Violence said the police clearly have a problem with Black people, offering that of the 240 complaints against the London Metropolitan police last year, not one was upheld.

“This racial bias cannot be blamed on individual rotten apples, the consistency of disproportionate racist outcomes means that the entire barrel is suspect,” a spokesperson for the campaign said.

“Even the head of the Metropolitan Black Police Association last year stated that she believed the police are institutionally racist.”

The group also noted that police use of Tasers in England has resulted in fatalities, meaning that police are disproportionately targeting Blacks with potentially lethal force. –Atlanta Black Star

Presidents of the Dominican Republic and Haiti Agree to Normalize Bilateral Relations The countries have brought their ambassadors home following a dispute this summer over of the rights of Haitians living in the Dominican Republic. The presidents of the Dominican Republic and Haiti agreed Tuesday to normalize bilateral relations. Tensions between the two neighbors flared over the summer when the Dominican Republic began deporting Haitians who could not prove their legal status.

Jamaica Celebrates National Heroes Day as Prime Minister Encourages Youth to Protect the Country’s Proud Heritage

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller, in her message to mark National Heroes Day Oct. 20 said that Jamaican youth and children, “in whose hands rest our future and the great legacy of our amazing heritage,” must be the guardians of the country’s proud heritage.

Black Families and Women Bear Burden of Mass Incarceration A survey of 1,000 former prison inmates and their families by the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights, in Oakland, California, “showed that it’s mainly African American women who bear the brunt of a loved one’s incarceration,” said Darris Young.

“When an individual is incarcerated, then that impacts on the family, which translate back into the community, are enormous.

For example, “nearly one out of five families involved in our survey faced eviction – they were denied housing or did not even qualify for public housing once their formerly incarcerated family member returned.”

Challenger Community News • thechallengernews.com • October 21, 2015

Federal Prisons to Begin Nationwide Release of 6,000 Prisoners Next Week The Justice Department is set to release about 6,000 inmates early from prison — the largest one-time release of federal prisoners — in an effort to reduce overcrowding and provide relief to drug offenders who received harsh sentences over the past three decades, according to U.S. officials.

The inmates from federal prisons nationwide will be set free by the department’s Bureau of Prisons between Oct. 30 and Nov. 2.

About two-thirds of them will go to halfway houses and home confinement before being put on supervised release. About one-third are foreign citizens who will be quickly deported, officials said.

The early releases follow action by the U.S. Sentencing Commission — an independent agency that sets sentencing policies for federal crimes — that reduced the potential punishment for future drug offenders last year and then made that change retroactive.

The commission’s action is separate from an effort by President Obama to grant clemency to certain nonviolent drug offenders, an initiative that has resulted in the early release of 89 inmates.

The panel estimated that its change in sentencing guidelines eventually could result in 46,000 of the nation’s approximately 100,000 drug offenders in federal prison qualifying for early release. The 6,000 figure, which has not been reported previously, is the first part in that process.

Rise Up October Campaign The Rise Up October campaign against police violence arrives in New York City for demonstrations this weekend, Saturday, Oct. 24, at 11 a.m. in Washington Square Park. A march begins at 1 p.m. followed by a closing rally at 3 p.m. at Bryant Park.

Initiated by Dr. Cornel West and Carl Dix, the National Contact Information for the Stop Mass Incarceration Network is Email: stopmassincarceration@ gmail.com / FB: stopmassincerationnetwork Twitter:@StopMassIncNet / Phone: Call 646-709-1961 The People’s Organization for Progress (POP), based in Newark, New Jersey, will be there in strength. “We’re going to bring family members of victims of police from New Jersey to stand with the family members they are assembling from across the country,” said POP chairman Larry Hamm. Home-based

CHANGE THE NAME! Support the

Campaign led by Alabama State Senator Hank Sanders and the Institute of the Black World 21st Century to change the name of the Edmund Pettis Bridge, which honors a Grand Dragon of the Ku Klux Klan who used violence, terror and murder to deny Blacks the right to vote after Reconstruction. We demand that the bridge be renamed the Amelia Boynton Robinson Bridge in honor of the Mother of the modern Voting Rights Movement.Go to this link and sign the petition.(http://ibw21.org/ changethename/)

organizing is critical. “We have to build strong movements at the local level, so that we can not only have thousands of people assemble in New York City, but thousands in every city across America,” said Hamm. “What an impact that would have!”

Challenger Community News •thechallengernews.com•October 21, 2015

Workshop on Disaster Preparedness Set The We Are Women Warriors and Erie County Legislator Betty Jean Grant will host a workshop on disaster preparedness on Wednesday, October 21 from 5:30 - 7:45 p.m. at the Merriweather library. Columnist Eva M. Doyle has been invited to do a presentation on how to survive natural disasters. Mrs. Doyle will answer such questions as: How much food and water do you need to have on hand in case of a disaster ? What do you need to know if you are asked to leave your home in a matter of minutes in case of an emergency ? What are some alternative power sources if the power goes out in your home ?

What is a “go bag ?” These questions and much more will be answered at the workshop. A representative from the Erie County Department of Emergency Services will also speak about what the county is doing to prepare for disasters. Mrs. Doyle would like to encourage participants to bring paper and pencil to takes notes and also to bring a friend. This workshop is free and open to the public. For more information call 847-6010 or 602-5877.

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

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FLORISTS

To Flu Shot or Not To Flu Shot Last year’s (2014 to 2015) flu vaccine was just 18 percent effective among adults, and only 15 percent among children aged 2 to 8. One of the most widely circulating influenza A strains mutated early in the season, leaving those who had gotten a flu shot with the belief that they were protected when they were not This year, the CDC is still actively promoting the flu shot for Americans.

Thursday, Oct. 22 Conference: “Safe at Home: Seeking Solutions for Adult and Child Victims of Family Violence.” Seventeenth annual Family Violence Intervention Project conference, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., The Conference & Event Center, 101 Old Falls St., Niagara Falls. Registration required – fee $65.For information call 285-0045. or e-mail cacofniagara@nfmmc.org.

Absentee Voting Hours Extended The Erie County Board of Elections has announced that their office will be open for absentee voting for the Tuesday, November 3 General Election from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each working day up to and including Monday, November 2.

-Extended Hours for Absentee VotingIn addition the office will be open extended hours for absentee voting on: Thursday October 22 until 7 p.m.; Saturday, October 24, 9 a.m. to 12 noon; Tuesday October 27 until 7 p.m.; Thursday October 29 until 7 p.m.; and Saturday October 31 9 a.m. to 12 noon.

The last day to apply in person for an absentee ballot is Monday, November 2.

A list of candidates for the November 3 General Election and an absentee ballot application can be found on their website: www.elections.erie.gov Call the Absentee Ballot Department at 858-7818 or 858-7819 if you have any questions.

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DO YOU REMEMBER…

Health Matters

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Diagnoses & Survivorship

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ou’ve been diagnosed with cancer. The feeling of uncertainty is upon you. Questions zip through you mind: What do I do? How do I tell my family and friends? Am I going to survive?

The day I was diagnosed is unforgettable. I can remember like it was an hour ago. I was at work when I received my “results” from the routine tests my doctor ordered. When he said “Yes, you have cancer,” I went numb. I sat at my desk, in total shock. I have cancer! My journey was soon to begin. More testing, then surgery, chemotherapy, and or radiGina ation. Not a clue as to what I should do.

Who do I call first? Where do I go for the DAVIS best care? Time is of the essence. One thing for certain, I felt that I had to keep my mind positive, and full of all the faith I knew I had. This was a time for me to do not only medical homework, I had to do some soul searching as well. While on my survival fight for my life, this was a time where strength came from prayer, supportive loved ones and plenty of laughter. After months of medical therapy (protocol) were completed, It was time for Survivorship!

There were many side effects that I was told could happen while going through chemotherapy. I was ready to accept them…at that time. One of the side effects happened months after I completed chemotherapy. Oh my! I was in shock, once again! Oh No! What is this? I thought I was done. No more chemo, no more side effects! Not so. Thank God for my support with words of encouragement at that very moment. There are many phases you can go through, not only while going through treatment, also after treatment is completed. Physical, psychological, emotional and spiritual. My body will never be the same.

Then come more “self” questions. “How do I look”? “Will people stare at me”? “Will I be able to handle the comments, the ignorance of others”? My hair is gone…bald. My breasts are two different sizes. Some days were better than others. There were times when I would cry for no reason. Days came when I did not want to talk to or see anyone. Too sick to go to church.

Depression ALMOST won. This was the new “me” that I had to begin to know, before I could introduce her to the world!

When I reached the “5 year” mark I was told, I would be medically monitored closely for 5 years for a re-occurrence. No re-occurrence meant there is a greater chance of survivorship.

Can you imagine what that was like every time I had a doctors appointment? Thankfully, all tests were good and I was in the “clear.” However, my faith told me different. I was healed and I just needed to do what I had to do to survive!

Here are the 7 Steps to my Survivorship: 1)I had to stay in control of my Journey. Keep my faith strong with positive family & friends around me 2)I needed to know what I had to do to survive. Testing, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, eat healthy and deep breathing.

3)I had to Take notes. My memory needed help. (smile) 4) I did not own this dis-ease. Did not say, “My cancer”…

5)I never used (or use) the word, “remission.” To me, remission meant, cancer is still there, sitting dormant, somewhere. I AM HEALED. (period) 6) I Continued to change my lifestyle after treatment. I am mindful of the words that I use and the thoughts I put in my mind.

7) I laugh. Laughter is good for my soul.

My life motto: A Survivors journey is a daily process!

For support after a cancer diagnose call: Jes Breathe cancer Awareness Group 1-855-JES-H0PE (537-4073). E-mail jesbreathe@yahoo.com P.O. Box 341 Buffalo, New York 14209.

Jes Breathe c.A.G. is an Awareness Group for all types of cancer. Currently seeking dependable volunteers to assist us with or global mission of making cancer patient’s journey HOPEFUL!

Humboldt Parkway before the construction of the Kensington Expressway?

ROCCBuffalo.org (716) 883-0529

6

FAITH & FAMILY

Challenger Community News •thechallengernews.com• September 21,2015

New Hope Baptist Church, Buffalo Celebrates 90th Anniversary

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ew Hope Baptist Church, Herschel Chapman, Jr., Pastor is happy to announce its 90th Anniversary. A 90th Anniversary Celebration will be held October 25 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Lafayette Hotel on Washington Street.

Ninety years ago, on July 15, 1925, New Hope Baptist Church held its first meeting with fifteen members at Bristol Hall on Bristol Street near Jefferson Streets. In November ,Rev. Luther A. Holloway was called to the Pastorate. On September 9, 1926, New Hope Baptist Church was incorporated. Unfortunately, Rev. Holloway resigned in 1927.

In 1928, after calling Rev. Nathaniel Mason to the Pastorate, New Hope moved to an aged church building on old Vine Alley . Five years later in 1932, New Hope laid the cornerstone of the first official church home for New Hope Baptist Church at 63 Union Street.

The final mortgage was burned in 1944, and, in November of 1960, the New Hope congregation

relocated to 543 Richmond Ave. In 1962, Pastor Mason was called from labor to reward, and Rev. Joseph Moore became New Hope’s shepherd for the next 13 years. Pastor More departed this life in 1976.

From 1977 to 1980, Rev. Lee Roy Jefferson served as pastor. He resigned in May of 1980.

On November 2, 1980, Rev. Dr. Paul F. Thompson was called to the Pastorate. After 20 years of service, Pastor Thompson retired in 2001, and was given the title Pastor Emeritus.

In October 2002, Herschel Chapman, Jr., was called to pastor New Hope. Guided by Pastor Chapman, New Hope continues to be a vibrant and active church in the Buffalo community that warmly welcomes all in a spirit of hospitality. Lovingly nurtured by Pastor Chapman, New Hope is joyously celebrating its 90th Anniversary while continuing to move forward in the grace and wisdom of God. New Hope’s worship service is each Sunday morning at 10a.m. at 833 Michigan Ave in the BW Smith Family Life Center. For further information call the church office at 833-0821.

The Legacy of Sharon A. Thomas Mother, Grandmother, Community Builder & Activist, Change Agent :A Woman of Substance

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riendship Baptist Church was filled to capacity as scores of family, friends and associates turned out to pay their last respects to Sharon Ann Thomas, the first Black Chief Clerk of Buffalo City Court.

Her historic career accomplishment was equaled by her awesome role as mother, grandmother, community builder and change agent.

Sharon was indeed, a “Woman of Substance.”

She was born on July 25, 1951 to the late Ruby Thomas and the late William Chandler in Buffalo, New York. From an early age, Sharon found her roots in the church, having been raised by her mother and grandmother, both of whom were members of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church.

Sharon would later become a member of Friendship herself.

Sharon was a product of the Buffalo public schools who became a teenage mother with the birth of her first child Feli-

cia, at age 16. Despite being a single mother at a young age, Sharon graduated from East High School with her class in 1969. That Fall she began attending classes at Daemen College (formerly Rosary Hill College) while pregnant with her second child Kimberly. She earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from Daemen College in 1981.

In 1974, Sharon applied for employment under the federally funded CETA Program.

She was hired and assigned to Buffalo City Court as an Information Aide. This was the beginning of her remarkable career in the Court system. As she worked her way up in the court system, Sharon was a Court Assistant, Criminal Records Clerk and head Teller. In 1981, Sharon was promoted to the position of Deputy Chief Clerk, a job she held for eighteen years. Sharon made history on April 1, 1999 when she was appointed as the Chief Clerk of Buffalo

City Court and sworn in by Justice Samuel L. Green at a public ceremony. She was the first African American to hold the Chief clerk position outside the New York City area. As Chief Clerk, Sharon was responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the busiest upstate local criminal courthouse and supervising a staff of 84 employees.

Sharon was well known in the Court system as an innovator and hard worker throughout her career. She was instrumental in the creation of the Children’s Center in Buffalo City Court that opened in December 1999 for families with court-related cases. She was active on various Office of Court Administration committees which addressed important issues like gender bias and gender fairness, domestic violence protocols and minorities in the court. Sharon was also certified as a course instructor in Cultural Diversity and Public Awareness. In 2000, Sharon was the recipient of the prestigious Unified Court System Merit performance Award which was presented to her during the Law Day celebration at the State Court of Appeals in Albany.

Aside from her exceptional career in the court system, Sharon had an extraordinary history of involvement in many professional and community-based organizations and committees. She was a natural-born leader and her affiliations and volunteer work from an impressive record which reveals her genuine desire to help others.

Sharon’s accomplishments were recognized in the Uncrowned Community Builders publication. She has been the recipient of numerous outstanding awards and honors As a catalyst for change, Sharon will always be remembered for her very special gifts, her positive approach to life, her exceptional wit and her sense of humor.

She loved traveling, shopping and spending time with members of her blended family,

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FAITH & FAMILY

Challenger Community News • thechallengernews.com • October 21, 2015

Spiritual Warfare Conference A Spiritual Warfare Conference, “Setting The Captive Free,” will be held Oct. 2224 at the Adams Mark Hotel, 120 Church St. Thursday and Friday 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Conference guests include Dr. Rebecca Brown of Clinton, Arizona; Pastor Alberto Deleon of North Star Christian Fellowship, Buffalo; Apostle Eric Von Copeland of San Antonio, Texas; and Psalmist Brian Sharp, Guest Worship Leader, Greer, South Carolina. Conference hosts include Evangelist Tracy Hunt, Prophetess Wanda Core and Prophetess Jazzie Myree. For more information call (716) 308-2584, (716) 247-3276 or (716) 361-2509. especially her grandchildren.

Sharon was also a woman who possessed a keen sense of fashion and style. She was a real “fashionista.”

Sharon departed this life early in the morning of Monday October 5, 2015.

Left to celebrate her life is her loving life partner, Kenneth Johnson, one brother, Randolph (Ida) Adams; one sister, Darlene Thomas; one half-brother Donald Chandler; two daughters, Felicia (Eric) Eve of Brooklyn, NY and Kimberly (Michael) Johnson; one stepdaughter, Rona (Haashim) Drinkard of Bowie, MD; three stepsons, Dedric (Tamieka) Johnson, Eric Johnson and Tauhid Nur of Atlanta GA; sixteen grandchildren, one great granddaughter and a host of other relatives and friends.

May her beautiful soul rest forever in the Eternal Fields of Peace.

Acting In Faith Theater

Acting In Faith Theater Company will host “Getting to Know Us” on Saturday October 24, from 6 -9 p.m. at Buffalo East, 1410 Main Street. Entertainment will be provided by the Freeman Trio Refreshments by D R & D Catering .Adults (21) only.

Focus On Overcoming Domestic Violence

A Women’s Service, “Escaping Domestic Violence: Focus on Empowering Women to Overcome Domestic Violence,” will be held October 25, At 5 P.m. Fellowship World 878 Humboldt Parkway corner of Utica.

Guest speakers will include: * Tina Sanders, President of “No More Tears Inc.” Topic: Helping women and young ladies turn their life around, and family support. *Marilyn Gibson, President of W.A.V.E. Buffalo, Inc. (Women Against Violence Everywhere, Inc) Topic: You Don’t Know My Story - Overcoming Toxic Relationships. *A special testimony by Mama Charlene Miller, Community Activist.

The Bible says And they overcome him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony. Revelation 12:11a.

Newly ordained Elderly Paulette Woods invites the community to come together to let the women of this community know they are not alone In facing domestic violence. Let’s stand together to empower women to escape domestic violence. Each one, help one! There is much we can do, together!

Gospel Temple Renovation Service The Gospel Temple, located at 143 Beard Avenue, will present the Gospel Temple Renovation Service featuring special guests The Visionaires on Friday, October 23 at the church, at 7 p.m. Also appearing will be the Temple Choir, Delivered, Carol Milhouse, Aaron Blackmon, Joy Clark, Favaa, Pastor Deas & The Men of God, Shera Benton and more! Supt. Willie Flurence is Pastor.

Nurses Anniversary Program The Nurses Anniversary Program will be held at Friendship Baptist Church, 402 Clinton St. Sunday, October 25 at 4p.m. Rev. Edward Jackson, Jr.,is Pastor. Everyone is welcome

St. Martin De Porres Feast of All Saints Auxiliary Bishop Fernand J. Cheri will be the guest presider at St. Martin De Porres on Sunday, November 1st at the 9:30 a.m.

Mass as the congregation celebrates the Feast of All Saints. This celebration will be American Commission’s annual tradition of honoring All Saints, especially those of African and African American Cultures. Please join us as we welcome Bishop Cheri back to St. Martin’s for the first time since he was named Auxiliary Bishop of New Orleans in January 2015.

Bishop J. Cheri

8

ENTERTAINMENT ON STAGE

Scratch Night At The Robeson The African American Cultural Center will present SCRATCH NIGHT at the Robeson for its second session on Monday, October 26 in the Center’s Paul Robeson Theatre.

Edreys Wajed will host the event opened to individuals who are interested in showcasing work-in-progress performances in theatre, dance, music, poetry, comedy, storytellers, writers, indie film, vendors are also welcomed @ $20.00 per table; cover charge $5 from 7:30 – 9:30pm.

Scratch Night will be held every last Monday of the Month October 26, November 23, and December 28. Additional dates can be found at aaccbuffalo.org individuals and vendors who are interested should send a request to paulrobesontheatrebuffalo@gmail.com

The Jazz Embassy Café with Melodic Word Artist Fragrance of YAH

The Jazz Embassy Café will be held on Sunday, October 25, from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m. at The Parkside Lodge at Delaware Park, 84 Parkside Avenue. Come join in residence with the ambassadors of “Heavenly Consciousness.” Take a ride through the galaxy of cosmic words and music a likened to that of Earth, Wind, and Fire as described by founder Maurice White, in an interview for The Las Vegas Review-Journal (2015), having “life-affirming power that can change the world[!]”

General admission is free! Café items will be provided by Golden Cup Café. Open wine and beer bar with ID and VIP ($10). For more information please contact Fragrance ofYah Harris at (716) 253-1404.

See You At The EVENTS!

*Godfather Promotions Presents Russell Thompkins Jr. And The New Stylistics, Halloween Musical Love Affair, Sat. Oct. 31, Featuring The Fabulous Old School B-Boys & Juanita Duncan. hosted by Mrs. Dee Paris.Two Shows 7 & 10:30 p.m. General admission event, $50 advance $55 day of show available at Brooks Central Park Cleaners, Doris Records, Tralf Box Office & all Ticket Master locations; In Rochester @ Classie’s Bar &Grill, 685 Thurston Rd. or call (585)370-206. *Stevie Wonder, Thursday Nov. 19 to perform live at the First Niagara Center in downtown Buffalo! Tickets are available at Livenation.com, Tickets.com and at the First Niagara Center Box Office or call 1-888-223-6000.

See You At The EVENTS!

Challenger Community News • thechallengernews.com • October 21, 2015

Baba Raymond Sylla and the Family Workshop Hosts Cultural Weekend Baba Raymond Sylla and the Family Workshop Weekend will take place Friday, Saturday and Sunday, October 23, 24 and 25. The cultural extravaganza, presented by Slyboots School of Music and Art and Afro-Physique Dance, will feature guest speakers, drum, dance and cultural workshops and a West African Style Party with live entertainment. The schedule is as follows: •Friday, Oct. 23 : ALT Theater, 255 Great Arrow. Dance Workshop @ 4 p.m. & Traditional Drum Circle, 9-11 P.M. •Saturday Oct. 24: -Ashker’s, 1002 Elmwood Avenue 11 a.m. -1 p.m. Workshop, “West African Culture for a New World” & Drum Workshop 1-3 p.m.

-ALT Theater, 255 Great Arrow. Dance Workshop@ 4 p.m. & West African Style Party w/live entertainment, 10 pm. – midnight.

•Sunday, October 25: -Ashker’s, 1002 Elmwood Avenue 11 a.m. -1 p.m. Workshop, “West African Culture for a New World” & Drum Workshop 1-3 p.m.

-Alt Theater, 255 Great Arrow Dance Workshop 4 p.m.

For more information: SlybootsBuffalo.com or LILA.Afropsusioque@Gmail.com (Baba Raymond and organizers would like to offer a special thank you to the African American Cultural Center and Womb of the Mother Habitats Inc.)

Challenger Community News •thechallengernews.com•October 21, 2015

ENTERTAINMENT

9

Interview by Matt Bauer

Legendary Soul Music Great Russell Thompkins Jr. : “I’ve Been Singing All My Life..”

H

is voice is unforgettable. Whether you first encountered it four and a half decades ago on those magical sides of vinyl with the purple and orange labels or you’re experiencing its aural delight for the first time in the digital age, the falsetto is timeless. As the lead singer of the original incarnation of The Stylistics and currently fronting The New Stylistics, Russell Thompkins Jr. is one of the key vocalists to emerge from the storied Philly soul movement of the 1970s.

The list of hits is long and impressive “You’re A Big Girl Now,” “Betcha By Golly Wow,” “Stop, Look, Listen (To Your Heart),” “You Are Everything,” “Break Up To Make Up,” and that’s just to name a few of the classics that Thompkins has graced with his creamy vocals; providing a lush, soulful soundtrack for romance that’s left an unforgettable influence on the soul music landscape. Thompkins will be bringing those classic hits and more to The Tralf for two shows on October 31, with The New Stylistics.

“I’ve been singing all my life,” explains Thompkins when asked how he developed his signature vocal style. “I grew up singing in a natural voice and most of the time I still do. In my teenage years, when I heard Motown and before that Frankie Valli, I knew I had the ability to sing falsetto.”

Formed in 1968 from the remnants of two Philadelphia based-vocal groups named The Monarchs and The Percussions, The Stylistics originally consisted of Thompkins, Airrion Love, James Smith, Herb Murell and James Dunn. The quintet recorded their first single “You’re A Big Girl Now,” leading to a contract with Avco Records tapping legendary Philly Soul producer Thom Bell for production duties.

Released in 1971, the Bell-produced The Stylistics was the first of seven gold and eight platinum albums, yet the tranquil cover on that debut with the five members reflecting in the summer grass belied that Thompkins (save for Love on “You Are Everything“ ) was the only vocalist featured on it or any of Bell’s subsequent landmark 1970’s productions for the group, which helped define the innovative Philadelphia soul sound of

Russell Thompkins Jr.

that decade.

Prompted for his thoughts on why the City of Brotherly Love became a soul music Mecca, Thompson says, “I think one reason was business. Everything was formed here in Philadelphia, the way that Motown was and it was on the tails of Motown and Stax. The musical reason is because it was done well; the recording, the musicians and the producers came up with a very good studio product. But the messages said everything that people wanted to hear at that time. The love songs we were coming out with hit the love portion of that while Philadelphia International had their message songs. Like Kenny Gamble said, ‘There’s a message in the music.’”

While the emerging disco scene of the mid-1970s threatened to make the group’s romantic balladry obsolete in the States, its success had spread internationally to the UK, Australia, Japan and Hong Kong but dissension was growing in the ranks. “I didn’t get along with the other members of The Stylistics. It was a job, other than getting up on stage with a microphone and singing, because there was a lot of trouble which stemmed from when Thom Bell didn’t use them. And for 35 years everything fell on my shoulders and I stayed there at least 37 years more then I wanted to. I was going to leave the group but Eddie Kendricks of The Temptations talked me into staying. And to this day I hope that I go to the same place that Eddie went to so I can talk to him later.” (laughs) Later records like 1974’s Hugo & Luigi-produced “Let’s Put It All Together” (which included the Van McCoy arranged smash “You Make Me Feel Brand New”) and 1975’s “Thank You Baby,” showcased more vocal contributions from group members. Yet with the exception of their 1980 reunion with Thom Bell’s “Hurry Up This Way Again” on the TSOP label, The Stylistics were unable to return to their former commercial glory.

Thompkins would eventually leave the group in 1999 to study music, with no plans of working with The Stylistics again and emerging from a three year hiatus with his solo debut A Matter of Style on the Rochester-based Forevermore records in 2002. At the urging of the label’s Christopher Bieler, Russell Thompkins Jr. and The New Stylistics formed shortly thereafter with Raymond Johnson and Jonathan Buxton.

The trio has just released their first live album The Very Best Of The Stylistics Hits, a 23-track collection recorded with the 50-piece Long Bay Symphony which has been in the works for years. “I’m the kind of person that can never listen to myself because all I hear is the faults. I’ve been listening to it and I like it. For the first time I like something that I did,” he confesses with a laugh.

As he approaches age 65,Thompkins sums up the current state of his career: “Basically right now I feel that I’ve built a new family around myself that I feel about in that same way.

They’re younger than me; they still want to make music and they’re building their lives around me so I’m here to work with them. And I still like to do it. I still like to sing. I don’t care if I retire now, I’m going to sing somewhere.”

SEE YOU AT THE EVENTS!

10

Challenger Community News •thechallengernews.com•October 21, 2015

GENERATIONS

Student Board of Education Member Accepted to Howard U. Ameer Dunston will enter the Honors Business Program with Scholarship

Jennifer Parker and John Gavigan. Photo Will Jones/Xaviers Photography

W

e are sure you have seen the logo around the city and even the ads in our publication among others, but do you know what 43North really is? If you have great business ideas or currently an emerging entrepreneur then you should keep reading this!

43North is the world’s largest idea competition that awards $5 million in cash prizes to some of the best ideas for starting a new business in the Buffalo Niagara region.

The competition, part of New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo’s Buffalo Billion initiative, operates through the support of the New York Power Authority and the Buffalo Billion initiative.

In the past year, with the support of Buffalo’s Minority and Women liaison Jennifer Parker, owner of Jackson Parker Communications, the 43North team has managed to nearly double their minority and female entrepreneur registrants and are seeking to increase that number again for the 2016 competition.

“43North is committed to raising the awareness of the emerging business opportunities such as in the Tech, Life Sciences, Renewal Energy and STEM (Science, Technology, engineering and mathematics) industries. We are not only proud of the increased awareness among minorities and women about the 43North Business competition but also that more minority and women business embraced the entrepreneurial challenge of ‘yes we can,’ ” stated Jennifer Parker.

Jennifer, along with 43North executive director John Gavigan, are strong advocates for the inclusion of minorities and females in business and working closely together to make sure everyone knows about this opportunity.

“Great ideas come from everywhere and 43North is truly committed to fostering inclusiveness and inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs in Buffalo,”said John, who fearlessly leads the initiative into its upcoming third successful year in 2016.

In 2015 MWBE outreach included a strategic plan that involved support from various ambassadors, including members of 2014 43North winning teams KeepUp and triMirror. These teams along with Parker represented the competition at startup events and conferences across North America, including the Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Summit in Atlanta; the Collision Technology Conference in Las Vegas; Startup Grind Toronto; Tech Cocktail gatherings in New York City and Washington, D.C.; judging of the Queensborough Community College Entrepreneurship Finals; and additional stops in Buffalo, Hamilton, Toronto, Waterloo and New York City. They also spoke at the University at Buffalo’s National Society of Black Engineers Annual Gala and for Buffalo State College’s Fashion & Textile Technology department.

-The 43North Finals Week The 43North Finals Week is fast approaching and Buffalo residents are invited to attend the next “Think Big with 43North” event: A Celebration of Entrepreneurship on Oct 26th, from 5:30- 8p.m. at the Buffalo Marriott HARBORCENTER, 95 Main Street. This is a great networking opportunity and will feature a panel discussion and conversation with the 2014 43North Female Competition Winners and Local Entrepreneurs who will discuss their journeys to success.

Then on Thursday, Oct. 29th The 43North Final Ideas Competition Pitch Sessions and Award Ceremony takes place at Shea’s Performing Arts Center. The morning pitch session is between 9 a.m. and noon and the afternoon pitch session is between 1 and 4 p.m., where you can witness all of the 43North’s finalists pitching their business ideas to an all-star panel of judges for a shot at $1Million. The pitch sessions are followed by the awards ceremony at 6 p.m. where the $1million grand prize winner will be announced; a legacy video, similar in scope to last year’s ‘Next Things Now,’ is unveiled; and a Buffalocentric marketing campaign kicks off.

You don’t want to miss this chance to learn more about what opportunities are next. All of these events are free and open to the public. You can register to attend these events at 43North.org.

ABOUT 43NORTH 43North is the world’s largest business idea competition. As part of Governor Cuomo’s Buffalo Billion initiative, the competition awards $5 million in cash prizes to some of the best entrepreneurs and startups from around the world. 43North winners also receive free incubator space in Buffalo for one year, guidance from mentors in related fields, and access to other business incentive programs such as START-UP NY. 43North operates through grants of $6 million from the New York Power Authority and $1 million from Empire State Development. Additional support comes from National Grid, Orange Capital, Ernst & Young, and several other sponsors. For a full list of sponsors and more information about 43North, visit www.43north.org.

Ameer Dunston, a senior at BPS Leonardo da Vinci High School #212, was visiting colleges and universities this past week, and the trip has paid off well for this exceptional student.

Following his interview at Howard, Ameer was informed of his acceptance into the Honors Business Program. He will be receiving his formal correspondence from the university next week.

Da Vinci Principal Florence Krieter says Ameer is a student who has received high college and career readiness scores on his assessments and was selected to be in the small cohort of his classmates who leave school during the Ameer Dunston day to take higher-level college classes on the D’Youville Campus. Afterwards, Ameer returns to #212 for calculus and AP Statistics.

Along with lauding Ameer’s talents and work ethic, Principal Krieter credits her staff who have “transformed da Vinci into a true college preparatory high school, and I am immensely proud that each of them has helped to make Ameer's dream a reality!”

She says AP Stats and calculus teacher Ken Hans and School Counselor Ariana Wright had a hand in supporting Ameer’s da Vinci academics, as well as readying him for his college visits.

“Ariana Wright spent the last three weeks preparing Ameer for his interview’” said Principal Krieter, “from processing paperwork, taking him to college prep sessions, and discussing his personal appearance for the big interview!”

When Ameer returns next week, school Assistant Principal Greg Lodinsky will meet with him, his Mom and Ms. Wright to look at the necessary steps needed to “button up the process and send him off in style.”

Multi-Media Arts Workshops for High School Students The African American Cultural Center & Empire State College are seeking Junior and Senior High School Students to engage in Multi-Media Arts Workshops in reference to the Underground Railroad.

Students will participate in a series of multi-media arts workshops, culminating in live performance which will be presented at the African American Cultural Center’s Paul Robeson Theatre under the Artistic Director Paulette D. Harris.

Susan Forbes, an associate professor with SUNY Empire State College School for Graduate Studies along with Paulette D. Harris will implement the workshop series based on methodologies developed in the interdisciplinary arts and experimental theatre by avant-garde practitioners and theorists. Following the workshop traditions, the students will develop the content and media for their final performance as they improvise, explore and share in dancing, writing, video production, vocalization and other forms of media to create their artistic expression.

The Multi-Media Arts Workshops will be held on Thursday, from 3:30 – 5:30 and Saturday noon – 3:00 beginning October 23, 2015, field trip days Saturday 9:00 – 3:00. Students interested please call the African American Cultural Center at 884-2013 or e-mail paulrobesontheatrebuffalo@gmail.com

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Challenger Community News •thechallengernews.com•October 21, 2015

The Board Majority’s Reform Vision: Dream or Nightmare?

H

ow many of you remember the “Vision for Buffalo Public Education”? That was the document issued by the “new” Board majority in July 2014 shortly after their takeover. This document was supposed to guide the reform agenda of the Board majority and, in a 5 year period produce “a robust portfolio of high performing schools.” Elements of this agenda included the promise to create a range of options for parents to choose to educate their child – a) high performing charters b) expansion of criterion schools c) expansion of high demand CTE programs d) possible creation of a Recovery District for lowest performing schools e) transfer agreements to send Buffalo students to suburban schools f) creation of “opportunity scholarships” aka vouchers to use at private schools.

In addition, the “Vision” proposed to initiate changes in organizational and fiscal “structural realignment” that would improve management and more efficiently drive money to the classroom; teacher incentives; engage stakeholders, principally by creating a non-voting Board seat for a member of the DPCC and other activities focused on the relationship with the DPCC. A central element to insure the success of this plan was dependent on the hiring of an Interim Superintendent, who had the experience, insider knowledge, positive relationship with the State Education Department and, most importantly, a philosophy in line with that of the Board majority. Of course, the qualifications of the Interim Superintendent were tailored to those of the hand-picked appointee, Donald Ogilvie. Mr. Ogilvie was waiting in the Barbara Seals and named to the position shortly after the publication of the “ViNevergold wings sion Statement.” Awarded a two-year contract, Mr. Ogilvie was to lay the groundwork for the plan, develop strategies to initiate the “Vision’s” proposals and facilitate the Majority’s goals and objectives.

A year and a half later, what of the “Vision”? And what’s been accomplished?

Less than a year into the plan, Mr. Ogilvie the central architect, found himself under attack. Members of the New Majority accused him of moving too slowly and not aggressively implementing their objectives, such as increasing the charter school footprint in the District. A hidden power struggle between Mr. Ogilvie and Mr. Paladino, in particular, erupted into an open conflict when Paladino threatened to fire Ogilvie unless he resigned. Citing Ogilvie’s “betrayal” of the Majority’s agenda, Mr. Paladino launched his own advocacy campaign, to appoint the next Superintendent – a principal. By July 2015, the District was again without a Superintendent, leading to the appointment of HR Director Darren Brown as the third Interim in 12 months. The District lost precious months in the search for a new Superintendent as the majority refused to engage in an open and inclusive process. Even after the agreement to open a national search, Paladino refused to participate and continued to advocate for his own internal candidates. The hiring of current Superintendent Kriner Cash was accompanied by some threats and insults from Mr. Paladino, who has begrudgingly accepted Dr. Cash.

Oh, and what of the plan to increase charter schools in the District? An attempt to give selected charter schools existing Buffalo school buildings was proposed by Mr. Quinn in January of this year. It led to a protracted process during which three charters requested to takeover Bennett High School and MLK Multi-Cultural Institute. Never mind that these buildings had children in them who the charters would not be taking or that they wanted the buildings for free. Resistance from the community and minority board members coupled with the failure of the majority to undertake due diligence ended this attempt to undermine our District, for now. After much wasted time and talent, the Board was informed by the Corporation Counsel (thanks to Mrs. Cottman’s initiative) that the Buffalo Board is not authorized to dispose of school buildings. Closed buildings must be returned to the City. Consequently the charters would have to negotiate with the City, not the Board, for use of any school buildings.

And that goal to have transfer agreements with suburban schools? Just the mention of this idea in a Buffalo News article resulted in a flurry of hateful, hostile and racist comments opposing the suggestion.

Then there is the Office of Civil Rights mandate to increase equitable access to Buffalo’s Criterion schools. Ironically, one of the “Vision’s” goal states “Approximately 2,000 children apply but are denied admission to City Honors, Olmsted, da Vinci and Hutch Tech. The high demand for these schools makes a strong case for their expansion. The Board should plan to increase this option by 800 seats by 2015-2016.” Yet Mr. Paladino’s response to the serious matter of the OCR finding has been to publicly denigrate the consultant who recommended solutions to address documented disparities. He has also repeatedly questioned the authority and jurisdiction of the Office of Civil Rights. This behavior has not gone unnoticed by the OCR. Dr. Orfield, the consultant, provided a written response questioning the failure to comprehend the magnitude of the problem and the lack of civility. Mr. Paladino has created an environment that has made it difficult for the District to comply with the OCR requirement for a plan that addresses the finding of inequity for children of color in this District and contradicts his “Vision Statement’s” own goal.

There’s not enough space to fully critique the reform agenda proposed in the Majority’s “Vision Statement.” The “Vision Statement” proposed numerous objectives “to break the cycle of educational failure”. Instead outcomes produced by the actions of the Board majority have resulted in undermining the District’s stability, increasing organizational dysfunction, micromanagement

by Board members, and poor staff morale to name a few. And now there is infighting between majority Board members that exacerbates Board instability. It would seem that, under their management, the Board majority’s vision; a dream for “high performing schools” has been turned into

Challenger Community News P.O. BOX 474 Buffalo, NY 14209 “We wish to plead our own cause.

Too long have others spoken for us.”

- John Russwurm, Freedom’s Journal.

advertising@thechallengernews.com

Rally at The ECIDA: We Need Jobs!

dear editor

Dear Editor: Last Month a project Carl Paladino’s Company Ellicot Development ask the ECIDA for OUR Tax Dollars to turn School 56 into luxury apartments and thanks to Frank Messiah and other folks at the table the project was voted down On Wednesday Oct. 21,the Project will be reintroduced to the Board for approval much like Solar City this money comes with no strings attached. As we said in front of Solar City we don’t want GOALS with no consequences, if you are getting our money to create jobs then we need MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS. John Washington PUSH Buffalo

Call for “Justice or Else!” Resonates for Buffalo too!

Dear Editor, I was disappointed by the lack of media coverage of the 20th anniversary of the Million Man March as I returned to Buffalo from Washington D.C. this past Sunday. Even the Sunday talk shows all but ignored the historic gathering of our Black and brown family. I was also informed by many people that not even BET showed coverage of the great day. What a slap in the face!

All the newspapers and online articles I later queried started with a similar sentence; “thousands attend Million Man March,” which reminded me how the numbers were under-reported 20 years ago! As a Specialist in the U.S. Army stationed at Ft. Eustis, VA 20 years ago, I recalled the intentional drumming down of the numbers in attendance that day and as an eye witness I can say the turnout on 10-10-15 was about the same as the first Million Man March. I remember the bean counters falling all over themselves to stress we did not reach a million attendees before the numbers were adjusted to just over one million people days later! The same shenanigans this time around as we again surpassed a million Black and Brown people who came from all over the country to again unify in our continued fight for equal justice. The “whole” family was in attendance this time! Our brothers and sisters, Native Americans, Mexicans, Palestinians and Africans, brought their entire families and it was special to see so many young children who probably experienced our brotherhood en masse for the first time. The love and energy flowing throughout the crowd in unison seemed to inspire even the pigeons that continuously flew overhead in a unity of their own as the Sun came out and shined brilliantly as the speakers began to take the stage. The unified message from the speakers was that we must build ourselves up and take control of our communities and the trillions of dollars we spend each year. The invoking of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s last speech and organizing goals to control our wealth was a breath of fresh air to a great people in need of oxygen.

The time is now for us to take up the mantle and prepare the children for a better future that we control and design for ourselves. As I mentioned, the news practically ignored the march on a weekend when a Texas Councilman was tased by police officers, when Tamir Rice’s shooting

by Cleveland police officers was called “justified”, and here in Buffalo we a big turnout to rally in support of minority hiring goals on construction projects. Not to mention that the state of Alabama is closing the DMV’s serving 75% of the Black and Brown citizens who are required to have a state ID just to be eligible to vote!

The very reasons we gathered in Washington in the first place made the news every hour but our unified response in coming together to end those injustices did not? This movement is not going away no matter what “they” attempt to do to quell it. The “Black Lives Matter” organizers are still shining the spotlight on the message and showing the attitude that we ain’t going nowhere until we are treated equally and if we can’t get the equality we deserve as human beings then we must respond by pulling our support of any and all institutions that continue to ignore us or infringe on our God given rights! We need everyone to BOYCOTT Christmas, stand up to those failing our children in schools, demand sensible gun laws and demand equal opportunities for employment on every job that comes to any city that we live and work in.

Let’s not forget that L.P. Ciminelli, the lead contractor for the Solar City project, also was the lead contractor on the Joint Schools Construction Project over the last decade and the minority and women hiring goals that were contracted were not met on that project either. Thanks to those who are holding them accountable to the contracted goal of 25% because we need to speak up or continue to be left out. Central Park Plaza is another project L.P. Ciminelli will lead and the people living in and around Central Park should employ and be employed to complete the job or we find another contractor. They will continue to ignore us if we let them as they are now with the Solar City project because we didn’t stand up during the school construction project. As the late great Marcus Garvey would say, “Up, Up You Mighty Race! You Can Accomplish What You Will!”

Ronald R. Draffin DR. NEVERGOLD continued

a nightmare plan for disassembling a school district.

Perhaps that was the goal all along. Dr. Cash would be well advised to throw this “Vision Statement” in the trash where it belongs and concentrate on developing a plan that puts students at the center of the agenda.

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12

Challenger Community News •thechallengernews.com•October 21, 2015

How To Obtain Assistance To The Work Needs YOU! H Avoid Foreclosure Sale The City of Buffalo IN REM Foreclosure Takes Place Tuesday October 27th, Wednesday October 28th and Thursday October 29th at the Buffalo Convention Center

Y

ou are strongly encouraged to retain an attorney, however if your income does not fall within the income guidelines of the following listed agencies or due to financial hardship and you cannot afford to retain a private attorney you still have the right to seek court intervention without an attorney to avoid foreclosure. Attorneys representing the City of Buffalo will be available to speak with you at the Erie County Courthouse on October 20, 21 & 22 from 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. at the following location: Erie Count Courthouse, 25 Delaware Avenue (between

church and west eagle street) Part 27- Lower Level The REM Foreclosure sale happens on the following dates: Tuesday October 27th, Wednesday October 28th and Thursday October 29th at the Buffalo Convention Center , Convention Center Plaza , 153 Franklin Street.

Registration is at 7:30 A.M. and the Auction Starts at 9:30 A.M. The Following Tax Districts will be Auction on the Following Days. Please Note that These Tax Districts May Change Closer To Auction Date:

*Tuesday Oct 27 Tax Districts 1,2,3,4,5 *Wednesday October 28 Tax District 6,7,8,8,10 *Thursday October 29th Tax Districts 11,12,13,14 Please be aware that the Tax Districts listed for auction dates in this notice are subject to change closer to auction date. If you want to see the list in person you can go down to City Hall to The Department of Assessment & Taxation Room 121 to get updated info.

If you cannot afford an attorney, you may qualify for legal assistance through one of the agen-

cies listed below: LEGAL AID BUREAU OF BUFFALO 237 Main Street (corner Main & Seneca), Room 1602 Telephone: 853-9555- Ext. 453 (Dorothy Adams) Walk-Ins are Welcome, Mondays & Wednesdays, 9:00a.m.

- 2:00p.m.

Property must be Owner-Occupied; Owner must meet income guidelines LEGAL SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY, DISABLED OR DISADVANTAGED OF WESTERN NY 237 Main Street (corner Main & Seneca) Room 1015 Telephone: 853-3087 (Extension 220) Properly must be Owner-Occupied; Owner must be 60 or Older VOLUNTEER LAWYERS PROJECT 237 Main Street (corner Main & Seneca), Room 1000 Telephone: 847-0662 Must meet income guidelines ERIE COUNTY EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE HOUSING OFFICE LOW INTEREST LOAN- IT'S A ONE-TIME DEAL Income Guidelines Apply Rath County Office Building, 95 Franklin Street, 1st Floor For Information call 858-6265

City Mission Kicks Off Annual Fall Campaign The Buffalo City Mission launched its annual campaign for the 2015 season today, “One Mission, One Hope” setting a goal of $2.4 million. This annual campaign helps raise the essential funds necessary to sustain the Mission’s critical programs and services for the homeless population of Buffalo. This amount reflects 39% of its operating costs for 2015.

Today, the mission cares for over 90% of homeless men and 40% of homeless women.

This year alone, they have provided over 188,000 meals and over 84,000 nights of shelter, so the need is great. n change the lives of all of our neighbors. Send your donation to: Buffalo City Mission, P.O. Box 496, One Mission, One Hope end Campaign, Buffalo, NY 14205-9914. To give online, p www.buffalocitymission.org.

ere in Buffalo there are meetings, forums, panels, rallies, gatherings, demonstrations, teach-ins and conferences everyday. On a daily basis, those of us who care about social justice are scrambling for time, stretching our energies, and striving to make Western New York, and the world, better. There is so much work to be done and it often appears that the workers are few. No doubt, most of us have discovered that our solo efforts may be minimally productive. Coalitions can be chaotic at times but a strong coalition with a defined mission can be successful in a major way. That is why Prisoners Are People Too, Inc. joined VOICEBuffalo two years ago.

In 1996, VOICE-Buffalo was born when a group of clergy identified congregation-based organizing as a strategy for change.

Moving forward, with the motto: “Faithfully bringing forth Justice,” VOICE-Buffalo has been able to bring people together in an interracial, urban-suburban coalition of more than 45 faith-based congregations, as well as community, business, and labor leaders throughout Buffalo and Erie County. VOICE-Buffalo has a proven track record of rallying local leaders, congregations, and businesses together in holding policy makers and power players accountable.

In 2013, VOICE-Buffalo stood with us in our desire to improve conditions at the Erie County Holding Center as well as our aim to bring restorative practices to our county jails. In 2014, VOICE-Buffalo championed our desire for conditional release that would allow some individuals in our county jails to be released before KARIMA the completion of their sentences with certain AMIN conditions and wrap-around services in place for successful reentry. This year, PRISONERS ARE PEOPLE TOO, INC. is especially concerned with the need for providing healthcare to returning citizens. VOICE-Buffalo agrees. This means that more than 45 entities agree with us. As one organization, we have power. With VOICE-Buffalo we have more power and a stronger community presence.

If you are not a member of PRP2 and you don’t know VOICEBuffalo, then you need to come to VOICE-Buffalo’s annual Public Meeting, which will be held on Monday, October 26. As you know PRP2 usually meets on the last Monday of the month. This month, we will participate in the VOICE-Buffalo Public Meeting. On October 26, we will meet at Elim Christian Fellowship, 70 Chalmers Avenue in Buffalo, at 7:00-8:30pm. Doors open at 6:30pm. Last year we had 700 attendees. This year we are aiming for 1100 attendees who value community enhancement and who believe in the power that we have to hold our public officials accountable. These public officials will be at the Public Meeting and we will define our public agenda. We will ask them to stand up and publicly state their degree of willingness to work with us.

In addition to providing healthcare to returning citizens, on the local front, we are working toward the following: ·Addressing Violence in the Community (Buffalo Peacemakers) ·Workforce Diversity and Workforce Development ·Extending Public Transportation Come out, come early, learn more, and join us. The work needs YOU! If you plan to attend, please respond to this message with an e-mail, or give me a call, or inbox me on Facebook. Please note again: WE ARE NOT AT PRATT-WILLERT this month. We will be at ELIM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP. “Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.”

Karima Amin, 716-834-8438; karima@prisonersarepeopletoo.org;

AKA ‘s to Celebrate Model United Nations Day Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Gamma Phi Omega and Gamma Iota Chapters, and the ASCEND, Educational Program of Gamma Phi Omega Chapter will celebrate Model United Nations Day, Saturday, October 24 at Diefendorf Hall, University of Buffalo South Campus, from 11 to 2 p.m.

UN models to be discussed at the program include GENDER AND SCIENCE and ERADICATION OF EXTREME POVERTY-- issues that impact all lives globally. High school students, teachers, parents, and principals are encouraged to attend.

Over 400 are expected to attend from the Western New York area. For more information and registration contact 716-2348840 or akagpo@gmail.comEdith M. Terrell is president, Sharon M. Bradley, Vice-president of Gamma Phi Omega; Jada Rain Heron is president of Gamma Iota Chapter. Chairmen for the event are Nellie B. King and Ottilie M. Woodruff.

Public Notices/Classified

Challenger Community News •thechallengernews.com•October 21, 2015

Holiday Job Fair at the Galleria Mall October 24 from 2-6 PM & October 25 from 1-5 PM .

Lower Level Near The Cheesecake Factory Walden Galleria Mall will host their annual holiday job fair on Saturday October 24 from 2-6 p.m. And Sunday, October 25 from 1-5 p.m. on the lower level near The Cheesecake Factory.

A variety of the mall’s retailers and restaurants will have exhibits set up for applicants to seek out seasonal positions in addition to full time employment positions.

This is a great opportunity for applicants and attendees to meet store managers face to face, ask questions, and apply for position of interest. Candidates are also encouraged to bring copies of their resumes and dress in business casual attire.

For more information and or the most updated list of participating retailers, please visit: www.waldengalleria.com and click on the Events Calendar.

For a list of additional job opportunities click Jobs on the bottom of the Walden Galleria homepage.

Housing/ Apartments / Rooms

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

(716)818-3410.

NEW POLICE ACADEMY continued Qualifications for applicants include: •City of Buffalo residency requirement / proof of U.S. Citizenship •Valid and clean driver’s license •Age requirement: applicants must be at least 19 years old on or before the date of the written assessment screening *Applicants who will be 35 years old on or before June 18, 2016 are not qualified to participate •Criminal background check *Education (high school diploma / GED / equivalency) for more information, call the civil service office at: 851Mayor Brown and Commissioner Derenda were joined

by Erie Community College President Jack Quinn, members of the Buffalo Common Council, local and state legislators, members of the Concerned Clergy Coalition of Western New York and other interfaith-based community leaders, Peacemakers, Buffalo Office of New Americans, Police Athletic League of Buffalo, Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority, Buffalo Employment and Training Center, National Federation for Just Communities, communitypolicing advocates and many other stakeholders, who were gathered at Mt. Olive Baptist Church, where Rev. William Gillison is Pastor.

EMPLOYMENT

LEGAL NOTICE RFP Bids will be received by R&P Oak Hill Development LLC for the H.E.L.P. Buffalo II Project located at 362-368 Broadway, Buffalo, NY 14203 on Friday, October 30, 2015 at 2:00 PM. TWO (2) SEALED BIDS HAND DELIVERED TO: Jennifer Kinney, Project Manager, R&P Oak Hill Development LLC, 3556 Lakeshore Road, Suite 620, Buffalo, NY 14219 by 2:00 PM on Friday, 10/30/2015. Bids cannot be emailed or faxed! The bid documents can be viewed at the R&P Oak Hill Plan Room (3556 Lakeshore Road, Suite 620, Buffalo, NY 14219) or can be purchased/viewed at Construction Exchange (www.conexbuff.com) & Avalon Document Services, (716-995-7777). There will be a Prebid Walk-Thru scheduled via Bid Period Clarification. HUD Residential Prevailing Wage Rates Apply. ***W/M/DBE par-

ticipation is strongly encouraged.*** LEGAL NOTICE BIDS

NFTA Procurement Invitation to Bid Service Maintenance Agreement for Aviation Elevators, Escalators and Moving Walkways Download Bids from www.nfta.com

A D V E RT I S I N G PAY S

Quality, Affordable Housing

St. Isaac Jogues Wheatfield 283-5811

Santa Maria Towers Buffalo 882-2661

Timon Towers Buffalo 882-2123

Msgr. Kirby Batavia 585-344-3610

St. Timothy’s Tonawanda 447-8876

St. Clare Buffalo 446-1667

St. John Bosco Buffalo 884-8059

Sycamore Mills Buffalo 847-1635

Mt. St. Mary’s Tonawanda 871-4123

Our Mother of Good Counsel Blasdell 825-3711

La Casa de los Tainos Buffalo 849-0485

School House Buffalo 447-1334

Call for information!

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MUSICIAN WANTED The New Hope Baptist Church in Niagara Falls, New York is looking for a qualified pianist/ organist to play for a medium size congregation. Must be a person of faith and have a commitment to building the music program. Salary-Negotiable. Knowledge of praise, gospel and traditional music helpful and is able to work with a youth choir. If interested, please contact Deacon Michael Williamson at 716622-2189 or Deacon Patrick Jones at 716-990-3676.

LEGAL NOTICE Public Notice Lake Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. has applied to the NYS Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services for a license to establish Substance Abuse outpatient treatment services at 254 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY 14202. Lake Shore Behavioral Health operates three existing programs at 254 Franklin St including Mental Health Outpatient Services and Personalized Recovery Oriented Services licensed by the NYS Office of Mental Health.

The public is invited to submit written comments or questions no later than October 28, 2015 and should be directed to: Lake Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. 255 Delaware Avenue, Suite 300 Buffalo, NY 14202 Or by email: centralintake@lake-shore.org

Executive Assistant: Excellent writing and organizational skills a must. Write, review and compile reports.

Works closely with the board of Directors. BA or equivalent. exp. Req’d.

Customer Service Representative: Answer all incoming department calls and direct them to the appropriate individual.

Part Time Comfort Peer: Provide companionship, peer support and modeling of independent living skills to individuals with a mental health diagnosis.

Resumes: HR, WNYIL, 3108 Main St., Buffalo, NY 14214.

EOE

JOBS

Buffalo Employment and Training Center 77 Goodell St., Buffalo, 856-5627/ Fax 7856-5670 www.workforcebuffalo.org 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 Mon – Thurs 10 am or 2 pm.

LEGAL NOTICE RFP Buffalo City School District Request for Proposals Professional Architectural & Engineering Services The Buffalo Public Schools Division of Plant Services and School Planning is soliciting Letters of Interest and Requests for Proposals for provision of a build-to-suit new facility to be leased to the District for a new culinary high school. Design procurement and construction will be the responsibility of the selected owner/developer and the facility will be leased as a “turn-key” space, including all furnishings and equipment. The completed facility is anticipated to be approximately 80,000 gross square feet and is required to be ready for occupancy in August 2017.

Beginning Friday, October 16, 2015, the RFP document may be requested electronically via e-mail from Paul McDonnell, AIA, at pmcdonnell@ buffaloschools.org. The RFP document will include a written narrative, a spatial program, evaluation criteria, and anticipated costs to the District for this facility.

Letters of Interest and Proposals will be received at the Office of Plant Services and School Planning, 403 City Hall, Buffalo, New York 14202 on Wednesday, November 4, 2015 at 10:00 a.m.

Paul McDonnell, AIA Director of Facilities Planning, Design & Construction

LEGAL NOTICE BIDS COUNTY OF ERIE NOTICE TO BIDDERS 2015 MISCELLANEOUS BRIDGE REPAIRS FA-BRMISC5-15 Department of Public Works (DPW), Highways Division, seeking sealed bids for (5) bridge rehabilitation project.

Sealed proposals due at DPW, 95 Franklin St, Rm 1400, Buffalo, NY, 10 am, Thursday, November 5, 2015. Bid deposit of $50,000. required with proposal.

9% DBE & Apprenticeship required. Plans available for purchase at $20/CD Thursday, October 15, 2015 through bid date.

Pre-let meeting Thursday, October 29, 2015 at 10 am, DPW Room 1419A, 95 Franklin St, Buffalo, NY. Bid submittal details are on the Erie County website at: http://www2.erie.gov/dpw

PUBLIC NOTICES Help Wanted email:

advertising@thechallengernews.com

Deadline for Legal ads

5 p.m. Thursday

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Challenger Community News •thechallengernews.com•October 21, 2015

RADNEY’S SPORTS UPDATE

NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS

SUN10/11

MON 10/12

TUES 10/13

WED 10/14 THURS 10/15 FRI 10/16 SAT 10/17

Bengals Rout Bills 34 – 21

T

he Bills jumped out with an early 7 – 0 lead after an impressive drive lead by EJ Manuel.

But it seemed after first Bills drive, EJ Manuel went back 3-WAY to being sorry EJ, throwing balls late and behind wide open receivers. He also appeared to get nervous and unable to execute the game plan for the day’s game. The Bills might have to use Josh Johnson next week MID- 0807 MID -1008 MID - 2691 MID-3043 MID -6310 MID-1562 MID-8114 if EJ does not step his game up. He must EVE8030 EVE6855 EVE 3042 EVE6465 EVE0144 EVE4091 EVE-0036

WIN 4 make a quick decision.

The Bills are finally using Chris Gragg in

meaningful plays. Hopefully they can build on this for next week.

3-9-23-35-39 15-16-22-30-31 2-4-13-33-39 18-27-28-30-31 7-10-11-13-36 10-14-19-21-34 7-13-21-34-39 EJ seemed very hesitant in releasing the TAKE 5 ball, but the Bengals defense gave him a

variety of different looks that confused EJ.

Bengals defensive end Carlos Dunlap said:

By GEORGE

13-35-42-47-48-58 #52 1-9-11-16-19-22 #37 “We prepared for both quarterbacks but LOTTO

RADNEY caught us off guard after he first 15 plays... they had a good start, but we settled down and made the proper adjustment.”

Bengals corner back Dre Kirkpatrick : “The Bills came out fast, but we got into a rhythm, and for the second half of game we HOT TIPS switched things up more and gave him different looks that he’d never seen before.”.. We did not want him (EJ) to get comfortable.”

Challenger Hits The Bengals defense forced EJ into being nervous and extra careful with the ball. I felt EJ should have run with the ball more only to make the Bengals defense respect his running ability, Midday 124 Quick Money (straight) Luckie Duckie , Number which would force them to drop back into coverage. Bengals 547-491-165-990-256-035-068-475-176-970-370-198-513- Book (bx) offensive coordinator Hue Jackson: “We are playing better, and we can play better than we did today. We left some plays out 522-809-507-647-350-760-919-513-891-558-047-060-307- 136 ZR Rundown (straight) there today, we have not played our best football yet and I’m 852 Weekday Hits (straight) Taurus (bx) 491-507-912-107-047-311-567-239-865-791-085-473-165- 844 Doubles (bx) looking forward to it. It’s years of hard work coming together.

We are doing what we do best, it’s always about us and not re789-247-567-543-136-705-892-965-135-79-510-460 ally about the other team.”

Evening “Its In The Stars” Billy Bye Bye Sez: It takes time and experience in the NFL and this was only 387 Luckie Duckie (bx) Aquarius -496-235-165-579 EJ’s 15th start in the league, with that being said EJ must seize 964 Number book Aquarius, Gemini, Pieces , Aries, (bx) 570-153-268-393-803-118 Pisces - 056-362-237-694 075 Hot Tips , ZR Rundown, Billie Bye Bye (bx) Number the moment and take matters into his own hands by doing what1447-1645-4444-6888 ever is needed in order to win football games.

Cancer - 482-372-895-718 Book (strt) “Believe in miracles but The Bills picked up more injuries with Marquise Goodwin Aries - 561-236-164-469 don’t depend on them” 724 ZR Rundown, Libra (bx) once again going down with a rib injury. Marquise is a very nice Taurus -258-231-026-695 380 Billie Bye Bye (bx) guy and has a heartwarming story, but he has a track & Field Gemini-495-257-694-508 613 ZR Rundown (bx) OCTOBER MONTHLY VIBES body which cannot take the punishment of the NFL. That’s why Leo-345-213-157-201 during training camp my wide receiver selections included AnVirgo 385-291-431-170 874-164-094-592 LUCKIE DUCKIE dre Smith and Deonte Thompson. I had Marquise Goodwin and Libra -247-723-179-501 Halloween Numbers Percy Harvin not making the team due to not being able to stay Scorpio - 453-253-571-597 202 335 -2015-4444 on the field. Sammy Watkins is beginning to fall into that same 375 & 409 Sagittarius - 389-701-234-924 134-431-143

category of being more track star than NFL player due to nag Capricorn:893-275-342-506 648*123*104 ging injuries from not even being hit by a defender. I’m not surprised by the injuries at the wide receiver position because 980-422-809 quick money $$$$ THE NUMBER BOOK coaches chose to go with injury prone receivers. Percy Harvin 981-989-970-990-080189-809-444 800-515-996 is an outstanding football player, but he can only play possi390-196-102-581-752886-980-422 bly 4 – 6 games in a season. Unfortunately the Bills are not a 319-408-378-352-126 position for a player who can only play so few games. Seattle 322-522-355 189-444-886-514 322-522-412-432-421Seahawks could because of the overall talent on the team and 800-592-390 423 a veteran quarterback in Russell Wilson. (Harvin only played 394-833-924 in two games during their Super Bowl season). Bills offense 127-909-418 finally went to a spread formation which allowed EJ more time 3-Way Winning Numbers Last Year 2014 and some running lanes for LeSean McCoy to get through. Mc927-313-466 Coy finished with 90 hard fought rushing yards on 17 carries.

124-550-525 10/29/2014 Evening 6-8-9 The Bills offense must regroup and offensive coordinator Greg 10/29/2014 Midday 9-2-3 583-269-508 Roman must come up with a game plan that will allow EJ to 10/28/2014 Evening 5-5-7 roll out and make plays down field. You must remember, the 10/28/2014 Midday 2-9-3 Bengals have played together for at least five years and you can Grandma’s OCTOBER Picks 10/27/2014 Evening 6-0-5 see the continuity is working for them. Bengals offensive tackle 342-882-789-513-435-06510/27/2014 Midday 0-6-8 Andre Smith (former number one draft pick out of Alabama) 10/26/2014 Evening 0-2-6 said: “We played fast, knowing your assignments coming into Powerful New Energy Shift for Chinese New Year of the Sheep, Lucky 10/26/2014 Midday 9-3-4 the game and everybody playing together. We have a lot of guys Number “8.” This year marks 4017 Years of Celebration.

10/25/2014 Evening 8-7-0 who have played together a long time and have seen almost ev“Watch your temper!”

10/25/2014 Midday 9-4-9 erything on a football field.”

10/24/2014 Evening 1-6-3 Best Triple for Month of OCTBER- 333 The Bills left for London, England immediately after the 10/24/2014 Midday 0-7-5 game. Nigel Bradham : “We must deal with injuries and come Doubles - 262-448-889-552 10/23/2014 Evening 5-7-4 back strong against the Jacksonville Jaguars.” The Bills must 10/23/2014 Midday 8-2-2 relax for a couple days and get acclimated to the time change WEEK DAY HITS! 10/22/2014 Evening 1-5-7 (five hours ahead). Its back to work on Wednesday to prepare 10/22/2014 Midday 2-4-0 mon 852-tues 987-wed 726 for another physical game right before the bye week.

10/21/2014 Evening 7-9-3 I see Bills winning 24 – 17 over a young Jaguars team. thurs 931-fri 794-sat 015

MID-613 MID-403 MID-844 MID-036 MID-852 MID-136

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Zakiyyah’s Rundown (ZR)

10/21/2014 Midday 0-8-5

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Challenger Community News •thechallengernews.com•October 21, 2015

DON’T CURB YOUR ELECTRONICS. Electronics should be dropped off for safe disposal.

Contact us for locations.

MAYOR BYRON W. BROWN

CoB_Challenger.indd 24

Wednesday October 21

Friday October 23

Saturday October 24

Film screening of The Black Panthers! 7.p.m., Burning Books, 420 Connecticut Street.

Baba Raymond Sylla and the Family Workshop Weekend: Dance Workshop 4 p.m. Traditional Drum Circle, 9-11 P.M. & ALT Theater, 255 Great Arrow. For more information: SlybootsBuffalo.com or LILA. Afropsusioque@Gmail.com

Baba Raymond Sylla and the Family Workshop Weekend: -Ashker’s, 1002 Elmwood Avenue 11 a.m. -1 p.m. Workshop, & Drum Workshop 1-3 p.m.

Also at ALT Theater, 255 Great Arrow. Dance Workshop@ 4 p.m. & West African Style Party w/live entertainment, 10 pm. – midnight.

Line Dance Fitness For Seniors: Hustle For Health at the Gloria J Parks Community Center 3242 Main St. .11am - 12pm FREE. 832 -1010 Public Meeting: Board of the Westminster Community Charter School 3p.m. M&T Bank, One M&T Plaza - 19th Floor.

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

CAN IT BE RECYCLED? Call 311 or visit BuffaloRecycles.org to learn more.

7/20/15 2:55 PM

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The Durham Central City Baby Café: every Wed. and Thurs.

5:30 – 7:30 p.m. 200 E. Eagle.

Dinner free! 885-6348.

Saturday October 24 Jes Breathe Breast Cancer Awareness Brunch: Think Pink Think Healthy 11 a.m.- 3 p.m., The Hope Center, 385 Paderewski Drive Tickets $10. All proceeds go to Jes Breathe Cancer Awareness Group Global Mission.

Celebrate the Retirement of Honorable H. Sconiers: 6 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Buffalo, 2 Fountain Plaza. Tickets $60 .

(716) 688-4292.

see you at the events

FREE CLOTHING GIVE AWAY: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Reverend Dr. Bennett W. Smith, Sr. Family Life Center, Saturday, October 24, 833 Michigan Avenue. Open to all! (716) 5600541.

Fall Clothing Giveaway ( and other good stuff too): 9 a.m.

– 3 p.m. at Hopewell Baptist Church Annex 1307 Fillmore Ave at urban (side entrance) Acting In Faith Theatre Company: Getting to Know Us, 6-9 p.m. Buffalo East – 1410 Main Street, . Adults 21 +

Your Homeownership Partner

The State of New York Mortgage Agency offers: • Competitive, fixed-rate mortgages for first-time homebuyers • Downpayment assistance available up to $15,000 • Special program for veterans, active-duty military, National Guard and reservists • Funds available for renovation

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Challenger Community News •thechallengernews.com•October 21, 2015

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