Challenger Community News

V O I C E S : F R O M B R O D E R I C K PA R K T O F R E E D O M PA R K , C O M M U N I T Y M A K E S I T S C A S E ! Page 17

WILL WE SOON KNOW WHO KILLED

TYLER LEWIS? Page 5

Street Legacy Photo by Darvin Adams

September 14, 2023 | FREE | Community News

THE SHAW BROTHERS 11 YEAR-OLD ALEX AND

14-YEAR OLD JAYLEN BEGIN FRESHMEN YEAR AT CITY HONORS Page 3

MIDGE THOMAS:

Celebration of Life Set for

JOYCE WILSON NIXON Page 7

Micaiah Celebrates 10th Birthday With Book Bag Giveaway! Page 14

Rochester Woman Of Distinction Page 2

POLITICAL DOMINO THEORIES: Elected Officials Leaving Their Posts for New Jobs? Page 16

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Challenger Community News •September 14, 2023

Fringe Festival Introduces Zoe Walker-Itoh in “Motha Has Lived: Almost A Memoir”

INSIDE ROCHESTER

Midge Thomas Honored As 2023 NYS Senate Woman of Distinction A

t 96 years young, Rochester’s Midge Thomas continues to serve.

The iconic philanthropist and beloved community leader was honored recently as a 2023 NYS Senate Woman of Distinction by Senator Jeremy Cooney for her decades of service to the Rochester community.

She established the Freddie Thomas Foundation to honor the legacy of her late husband, civil rights activist Dr. Freddie Thomas. The Foundation provides a free space for community organizations and has funded countless projects in Rochester, including the Jane Pittman Drinking Fountain which provides free drinking water in the center of the city.

Today, Mrs. Thomas continues her work, inspiring the next generation of community leaders in Rochester. "It is my honor to recognize Midge Thomas as my 2023 Woman of Distinction” said Senator Cooney. “Midge truly embodMidge Thomas ies this award. For decades she has been a leader in our community, fighting for humanity, liberty, and equity for all. Both Rochester and New York State have benefited from her decades-long work, and are proud to present her with this prestigious award. We are deeply grateful for Midge’s relentless effort to improve our community.”

“Research what you want to be. Make short and long term plans. Focus on your goals. Go for it,” said Midge Thomas, 2023 NYS Women of Distinction Honoree. “Midge Thomas has etched her own legacy into the story of Rochester’s never-ending quest for equity, inclusion, and social justice,” said Mayor Malik D. Evans. “And now, thanks to this recognition from Senator Cooney and the New York State Senate, her legacy—and the lessons we all can learn from that legacy – extends beyond Rochester to the entire state.”

"My life had been impacted byMidgeThomas before I really knew who she was,"said Rochester City Council Member LaShay D. Harris.

"I remember participating in the activities at the Triangle Building such as dodge ball and swimming. Activities offered free to youth in the community. Midge Thomas has blazed a trail in her role a stark advocate for the Rochester Community. As the founder of the Freddie Thomas Foundation formally known as the Triangle Building now located at the Harro East Building, she became one Rochester's First African-American to own a major commercial building. She continued the work of supporting community youth which was started by the late Dr. Freddie L. Thomas, her husband. That is just one of the many accomplishments of Mrs. Thomas."

Councilmember Harris (South District), who helped honor Mrs. Thomas as she was recognized at the ceremony, continued to praise Ms. Thomas for her lifelong work to better the City of Rochester.

“Midge Thomas is a trailblazer of philanthropy and community service in Rochester. While she is known as the widow of Dr. Freddie L. Thomas, her lifetime of work in our city shines a spotlight on her own identity as a community leader. I am thrilled to Continued Page 13

Presented by Geva Theater’s Fielding Stage at 75 Woodbury Blvd. on September 20 at 6pm, September 21 at 6pm, September 22 at 8:30 pm, September 23 at 6:30pm. “Motha…” is a theatre work explores 1980’s NYC from a Black woman’s view.

Zoe Walker-Itoh Filled with stories of love, funk and disco. Written and performed by Zoe Walker-Itoh, “Motha” is based in a little bit of truth and alot of imagination. Born out of Walker-Itoh’s experiences during the era, the piece touts joy, laughter and the poignancy of trying to succeed as an actor in NYC. For more info contact zoeandnia@aol.com 585-703-1257 (est) Zoe Walker-Itoh on Facebook and Instagram.

Zoe lives in Rochester and is a former theater director at St. Bonaventure University and educator with the Rochester City School District.

Daniel Prude Day Celebration

September 20th is Daniel Prude’s birthday.

He was a father, brother, uncle, son and deeply loved by his family. Three years ago, on March 23rd, 2020, Daniel Prude was killed by RPD while experiencing a mental health crisis. In his memory, communities across NY State will gather to honor those killed by police and advocate for the passage Daniel Prude of Daniel’s law, a bill that would remove police as the default response to mental health crises and allow Peers/Mental health workers and EMT's to be first responders.

At the celebration on September 23 from 4-7 p.m. on Jefferson & McCree you'll have the chance to hear from State and municipal legislators fighting to transform how we respond to mental health crises in NY, alongside families of those directly impacted and learn about mental health and wellness resources available in your community and how you can get involved in the fight for Daniel's Law.

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Challenger Community News• September 14, 2023

AREA BRIEFS Asantewa K. Holley Named VP Of operations At Northland Asantewa K. Holley, MBA, has been named Vice President of Operations for Northland Workforce Training Center. Asantewa started at Northland Workforce in September 2021 as Director of Operations. Ms. Holley previously worked in the financial industry for eighteen years holding multiple operational management roles. In addition, Ms. Holley serves as an Adjunct instructor at The University of Buffalo Educational Opportunity Center. Asantewa holds an MBA from The University of Buffalo, B.S. in Accounting from Empire State College and is a 2020 Graduate of Leadership Buffalo and 2023 Graduate of the New York Association of Training and Employment Workforce Academy.

Ms. Holley currently serves as a Board Member for House Opportunities Made Equal (HOME), the Michigan Street Preservation Corporation – Nash House and Trustee at True Bethel Baptist Church. Asantewa is a member of the National Black MBA Association, WNY Chapter. Asantewa has won several awards including Business First 40 Under 40 and the Buffalo Black Achiever Award.

Bills Owner Terry Pegula Denies Making Racist Statement Alleged in Sports Reporter’s Lawsuit Against the NFL According to CNN, Former National Football League reporter Jim Trotter filed a discrimination lawsuit against the

NFL and NFL Media Tuesday, alleging that he was let go by the football league because he publicly challenged Commissioner Roger Goodell and other executives on the NFL’s “record of race discrimination and lack of diversity.”

Trotter worked as a sports reporter for the NFL from 2018 until March.

Trotter’s lawsuit also alleges that his experience with discrimination was not limited to the circumstances surrounding his firing, however. According to the suit, the sports reporter witnessed hostile comments by NFL team owners on multiple occasions.

In one example, when discussing player protests against racial injustice, Trotter alleges that Buffalo Bills owner Terry Pegula said “If the Black players don’t like it here, they should go back to Africa and see how bad it is.”

In a statement, Pegula vehemently denied Trotter’s allegation.

“The statement attributed to me in Mr. Trotter’s complaint is absolutely false. I am horrified that anyone would connect me to an allegation of this kind. Racism has no place in our society and I am personally disgusted that my name is associated with this complaint,” Pegula said.

The NFL said it disputes the allegations laid out in Trotter’s suit.

Young, Gifted & Black!

The Shaw Brothers

11 Year-Old Alex and 14-Year Old Jaylen Begin Freshmen Year at City Honors

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By Nanette D. Massey

BUFFALO BLACK HISTORY FACTS

ny family would be proud to have one whiz kid in its ranks,

but how about two? And so it is with brothers Alexander “Alex” Shaw age 11 and Jaylen Shaw age 14 . Even more remarkably, Jaylen and Alex finished eighth grade together this past June as valedictorian and salutatorian of their class at Buffalo’s Dr. Lydia T. Wright’s School Of Excellence, PS #89. Jaylen took the number one spot with a grade point average of 98.27, and Alex was right behind him with a grade point average of 96.

Despite the three year gap in their ages, they came to be in the same class after Alex skipped three grades. As early as preschool their father, Barace Shaw, was getting outstanding reports of Alex’s abilities. He kept a close eye on Alex’s progress and continually advocated with the school on his son’s behalf. Both brothers have started ninth grade together at City Honors High School.

It’s easy to imagine the two brothers as bookish, or socially awkward but they’re none of that. They’re just two good-natured, spirited youths. Alex barely stopped giggling for one minute during this entire interview, and amused himself by copying his father’s busy hand gestures with exact precision when Barace wasn’t looking. Outside of school he enjoys soccer, swimming and basketball. The third he admits he’s not particularly good at, but he participates hardily nonetheless. His true love is chess which he learned to play from one of his friends at school. He’s hoping to Jaylen (top) and Alex. bring this skill to a chess team or club at City Honors.

Jaylen is a particularly social young man. He is a fan of games like charades, and participates in the Leaders In Training program. Through LIT, youths learn what it means to be a leader and practice things like how to focus, and how to calm down and be in control of your emotions, skills that will prove invaluable in their adulthood. In 2022, LIT joined forces with AT&T and Mission Ignite to reward participants with their own computers at the program’s completion.

Both boys admit their good grades came relatively easily. The big secret for them, they say, is simply listening intently and paying attention.

Jaylen’s favorite subject is social studies. He is interested in history, culture, and how they come together to inform the ideas of today. He’s challenged though by science, readily conceding he finds talk of chemicals, atoms and such “boring.” Alex finds the absoluteness of math and science easy to grasp. Social studies, on the other hand, requires more brain power and effort for him.

Alex sees a clear path ahead for himself. Ultimately he plans to become a cardiologist. Jaylen still has more of the world he wants to explore before coming to any conclusions about where he’ll land.

With their natural smarts, the constant attention and devotion of their dad behind them, and a top notch education awaiting them at City Honors, undoubtedly these are two young Black men we’ll be hearing more about soon and often.

Don’t Miss The Buffalo History Channel Outside Film Screening Join the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor and the founder of the Buffalo History Channel for an outside film screening on September 16 at 136 Broadway.

There will be Pre-Screening stories from 5:30 to 6:30 with Dr. Eva Doyle who will share Buffalo African American history and stories that will inspire.

The movie screening begins at 7 p.m. with Doug Ruffin, visionary media professional/founder of the Buffalo History Channel. With over 25 years in television and radio he has served as a producer videographer/editor, photographer and on-air personality. Bring a lawn chair or blanket to enjoy

this open air screening. Refreshments will be available.

Doug Ruffin

The mouth of Buffalo Creek, circa 1800. Joseph Hodge's log cabin home and tavern was not far from this spot

JOSEPH HODGE Joseph Hodge, known as ”Black Joe” thought to be an escaped slave, lived in Buffalo with the Seneca Indians.

He is the first non-Native person to live in WNY and operated a trading post. Fluent in both Seneca and English languages, he was also an interpreter.

KKK EXPOSED In the early 1920s, the Ku Klux Klan was active in Buffalo, but conflict emerged when recently elected Mayor Francis Schwab promised to repeal prohibition.

Edward Obertean, a police spy, exposed a list of more than 2,000 members and backlash ensued. He was murdered at the hands of national klan leaders.

NATIONAL CONVENTION OF COLORED MEN In 1843 Vine Street AME Church (Bethel AME Ferry & Michigan) hosted a national convention with the purpose of discussing how to end slavery. Speakers included Samuel H. Davis, George Weir, Frederick Douglass, and Henry Highland Garnet. Garnet called for Southern slaves to refuse to work and resist their oppressors by any means necessary. The gatherings exContinued Page 8

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HEALTH MATTERS

Hustle for Health Offers Free Line Dance Fitness Classes

THE HEALING POWER OF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES: COLOR MATTERS

It's Back to School Season, that means the kids are gone for the day and YOU have time to get your Hustle on!

Hustle for Health is currently offering FREE line dance fitness classes in Buffalo: Urban Line Dancing at Delavan Grider Community Center and Gloria J. Parks Community Center is designed for local residents age 50+ looking for a fun, free exercise routine. We take classic routines like the electric slide and add a fitness twist to maximize health benefits.

Join founder Jazzy T, Tynell Stewart and Phyliss Caver on Mondays and Wednesdays at noon and 11a.m. respectively.

Each class starts with a mindfulness exercise. Bring your good vibes and intentions for the week!

From the Archives of Bro. Ishma'el Jamal

White Color Foods

White, the color of peace and spirituality has a special healing quality. It is the symbol of purity, protection, and reverence. This color is conducive to helping with the inner cleansing of emotions, alleviates emotional shock and despair, and brings serenity and comfort at the highest level. It is believed to raise consciousness and understanding as it is the highest energy vibration and represents the light emanating from the Divine. White is the best reliever of pain.

The most famous of all the healing foods, garlic is an excellent source of phytochemicals, vitamin A and C, calcium, and iron. Garlic’s benefits include lowering blood pressure, helps to prevent blood clots by thinning the blood, lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer, improve circulation, and lowers blood sugar levels. The compound that gives garlic its strong odor is an antibiotic that may be more powerful than penicillin and tetracycline. This antibiotic fights against tuberculosis, botulism, colds, flu, stomach viruses, and yeast infections. Garlic stimulates the immune system that helps the body fight infectious diseases.

Cabbage speeds ulcer healing, improves digestive health, helps prevent cataracts, may reduce cancer, and may lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. Other white vegetables include cauliflower and white onions.

eat to live

Annual Kite Festival to Raise Mental Health Awareness Mental Health PEER Connection will hold its annual Kite Festival, a celebration of mental health, Saturday, September 16 from 11a.m. to 3p.m. at the Cheektowaga Town Park, Pavilion Shelter # 1, 2600 Harlem Road, south of Como Park Boulevard in Cheektowaga.

The purpose of this event is to raise awareness of the needs of individuals who have experienced mental health challenges or are in recovery.

DEATH BY SUICIDE

According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, suicide is the 11thleading cause of death among adults. In 2021, 48,183 Americans died by suicide and there were an estimated 1.7 million suicide attempts. In that year suicide rates were higher among adults aged 25-24 (19.48 per 100,000) and 7584 (19.56 per 100,000), while adolescents and young adults aged 15-24 had a suicide rate of 15.15 per 100,000. The highest U.S. age-adjusted suicide rate was among Whites (15.65) and the second highest rate was among American Indians and Alaskan Natives (16.74). Much lower rates were found among Black or African Americans (8.34) and Asians and Pacific Islanders (6.86).

Challenger Community News •September 14, 2023

Tobacco Companies Required to Post Signs on Health Risks of Smoking in Stores Across the U.S by Sept. 30

By Sept. 30, 2023, the major U.S. tobacco companies must post visual signs at about 220,000 retail stores across the nation that sell cigarettes, telling store-goers the truth about cigarette smoking. Under federal court order, the signs—known as corrective statements—are being installed near cigarette displays in these stores between now and September 30 and must continue to be displayed until June 30, 2025.

This action will significantly benefit communities of color that are disproportionately saturated with colorful tobacco advertisements and flavored tobacco products, which attract and addict new teen smokers and make quitting smoking more difficult.

In Black and brown communities, there are up to ten times more tobacco retail stores, meaning shoppers in those areas have more exposure to tobacco advertisements and products that line the shelves of stores behind the counter with high accessibility. These tobacco retailers are typically in close proximity to schools, community centers, and health facilities.

The signs will vividly showcase the truth about the dangers of smoking and secondhand smoke, and the addictiveness of smoking.

Rashawn Smalls, Community Engagement Program Manager for Tobacco Free Erie and Niagara says “It isn’t about taking away people’s choice to smoke. We are not against smokers.

It is about saving lives. And preventing future addiction and disease.”

Compliance will be enforced by external agencies to ensure that stores are adhering to the mandated law. A tip line will also be created for people to call in and make reports on stores that are not following in accordance.

A local youth leader from the East Side of Buffalo, Jah’Asya Cannon, said “Menthol is more accessible than mental health facilities and smoking cessation resources that will effectively help people stop smoking.”

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Challenger Community News• September 14, 2023

Public Hearing On $1 Billion Plan to Cover Portion of Kensington Expressway A public hearing will take place on Wednesday, September 27 on the $1 Billion Plan to cover a portion of the Kensington Expressway. The hearing will include two sessions be held at the Buffalo Museum of Science, 1020 Humboldt Parkway from 10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. and from 4:30 pm to 8 p.m. The public will be able to ask questions aout the design plans after an update on the project progress.

The federal Highway Administration is conducting the hearing with the state DOT. Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes called the community’s input “critical.”

We May Soon Know Who Killed Tyler Lewis!

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yler Lewis, a promising 19-year-old sophomore at Buffalo State College from Long Island, NY, was stabbed to death on UB’s campus last October 14th by a White male.

For months his murderer remained at large after fleeing the scene. The Erie County DA's office remained silent while Tyler's parents and supporters des-

perately sought answers regarding his murder.

Finally in March, to add insult to injury DA Flynn announced no charges in the fatal death of Tyler. The case was closed and no arrests were ever made.

This past Friday, after a meeting behind closed doors with the family and members of the Black Lives Matter Grassroots Movement, the DA’s office agreed to request that a judge unseal the grand jury minutes from the investigation for the purpose of revealing the names of those involved in the incident.

Prior to the announcement members of Tyler Lewis’ family – including his mother, father, grandmother, grandfather, uncle girlfriend and more than two dozen demonstrators with Black Lives Matter Grassroots from around the country, held a protest outside the Erie County courthouse downtown and then sat inside the waiting area of the DA’s office while others met with prosecutors.

The family announced the agreement to supporters after the meeting (Flynn was not present). They made clear their goal and purpose: for the man who stabbed their son and loved one to death be prosecuted and that all evidence in the case to be unsealed, including videos of the killing.

In a show of solidarity and commitment to justice, they chanted “Say His Name.

TYLER LEWIS” several times before leaving.

They also visited the site of the 5/14 Massacre on Jefferson Avenue.

In June of this year the family of Tyler Lewis filed a discrimination suit against DA Flynn.

SAY HIS NAME! Pat Bozeman demonstrates outside the DA's office Friday. Street LegacyPhoto

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FAITH & FAMILY

First Shiloh Baptist to Host the Purposeful Women of Faith Awards

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irst Shiloh Baptist Church welcomes back its Purposeful Women of Faith Awards Breakfast on Saturday, September 23 from 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. at Aqua Restaurant & Events, 2192 Niagara Street. The event has not taken place since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In 2018, The Women’s Fellowship Ministry at First Shiloh Baptist Church established the “Purposeful Women of Faith” (PWOF) Awards, and since that time has recognized and celebrated 40 women for their achievements across denominations who are making an impact in Western New York.

“Women play major roles within faith communities, and we

are excited to have an opportunity to celebrate the clergy, administrators, ministry leaders within the community,” said Lady Tanya Staples, First Shiloh Baptist Church. “Women are active in the wider community, running businesses, ministries, and charities, as well as supporting, helping and inspiring others whether at work, faith communities or in the home.”

Tickets for the awards breakfast are $30. Payment may be sent to the attention of PWOF at First Shiloh Baptist Church, 15 Pine Street, Buffalo, NY 14204.

This year’s Purposeful Women of Faith Awards Breakfast will recognize the following women in these categories: Women in Politics: •Honorable April Baskin Women in the Community: •Ms. Vicki Baxter •Lady Angela Blue •Ms. Josephine Cross Ms. Mildred Shephard Ms. Kelly Marie Woffard •Ms. Karla Thomas •Ms. Michelle Martin

Challenger Community News •September 14, 2023

Women in Ministry: •Mrs. Jeraldine Boyland •Lady Bertha Brinson •Dr. Sharon Brown •Reverend Lillian Davis-Wilson •Ms. Cynthia Harbin •Ms. Tammy Lee •Bishop Evelyn Parmer •Reverend Melody Rutherford, MDiv. Exceptional Young Christian Woman: •Ms. Danielle Burruss Women in Missions: •Ms. Merry Cherry Naomi Award: •Mother Callie Jones •Mother Elva Whitaker Women in Business/Finance: •Mrs. Asantewa Holley •Mrs. Latisa Roosevelt Turn Around Award: •Ms. Charlene Thomas - Turn Around Award Nomination forms for the 2024 Purposeful Women of Faith awards will be available in January.

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Challenger Community News• September 14, 2023

Celebration of Life Set for Joyce Wilson Nixon: A Woman With A Vision For the Youth

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oyce was always looking out for the children,” recalled longtime friend Karla Thomas. “She ran the celebrated Crusaders Drill Team and youth program out of the Casino in MLK Park .”

For over three decades she served the youth and fought for funding for a variety of youth programs including The Randy Smith Basketball League; the Jeff Nixon Basketball League. A woman with a love and vision for young people, she was longtime director and CEO of the National Inner cities Youth Opportunities (N.I.C.Y.O.). After the Casino was renovated , her dream was to re-establish her location where she worked for so many years, Intensified.

“She wanted to turn the usage of it back to the children…..she just wanted a place for the kids…a place to service our children,” continued Karla. “But for some reason it never happened.”

Joyce Wilson Nixon, a 66 years young youth worker and entertainer, made her transition peacefully on September 1 before being able to see that dream come true after a long battle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD. Joyce Nixon was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and adopted by James and Edna Wilson. Her biological father, Ron Bassham is involved with local unions and politics. He is retired from military intelligence and is in the UAW Hall of Fame.

She attended Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. She was also a vocalist and often performed with the group Taylor Made Jazz. At one point in her career she was also a model/ spokesperson for Ralph Lauren, Inc. Locally, Joyce was active with Fifty Women With a Vision since its inception . The primary goal of the all-volunteer group is to revitalize Jefferson Avenue on the East Side.

A CELEBRATION OF LIFE: The family of Joyce Wilson Nixon will be present Saturday, September 16 from 11 AM 12 PM at True Bethel Baptist Church, 907 E Ferry St. where a Celebration of Life will immediately follow at 12 noon.

The recipient of a number of community awards, the always fashionable , upbeat, vivacious Ms. Nixon leaves to cherish her beloved memory, her devoted husband Jeff Nixon; sons Charles Wilson, Damien Wilson and Libran Thomas; step children Jeff Nixon and Jena Nixon; many loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren; siblings Melvin, Jackie, Debbie, Debran, and Kletis; and a host of family, friends and young people whom she mentored.

The family will be present Saturday, September 16 from 11 AM - 12 PM at True Bethel Baptist Church, 907 E Ferry St. where a Celebration of Life will immediately follow at 12 PM. Interment held privately.

May her loving and giving soul rest forever in the Eternal Fields of Peace.

Fourth Annual Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship District Appreciation Awards Dinner

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f you have ever wondered what the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship is all about, we invite you to join the WNY & Vicinity District Overseer, Dr. James A. Lewis III, and the Full Gospel area churches as we host our Fourth Annual District Appreciation Awards Dinner, Friday, September 22 at 6:00 p.m. at the Classics V Banquet Hall. Our theme for this awards dinner is “We Are Better Together.”

The Body of Christ is made up of all kinds of people, we have identified individuals from within the Full Gospel congregations and in the community, we worthy of being recognized as “Kingdom Workers”.

This event provides an opportunity to celebrate individuals who have worked to expand the “Kingdom” and have gone unrecognized.

We sincerely hope you can be a part of this special event. The cost of tickets is $50.00, to purchase tickets please call 716-913-0941. The deadline for ticket purchase is September 19, 2023.

It is the vision of both our New York State Bishop Darius G. Pridgen and District Overseer, Dr. James A. Lewis III to expand the kingdom. Our arms are open to receive you in fellowship. Blessings in Christ

Agape AME Community Day Sponsored by the Annie W. Hargrave Missionary Society, the Agape AME Church presents Community Day Thursday September 14 at 1300 Jefferson from 4-7pm there will be food, health screenings, giveaways (bookbags and socks) Children's discount haircuts from Fade Facrory and Love Barber Shop and Childrens Discount Maincures from Amy Nails. Rev. Willie Pulliam is Pastor.

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

Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church Is On The Move!

Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church is on the move. They just hosted their 3rd annual Pilgrim Family Fest in July. Featuring Angela Winbush, Glenn Jones, Old School B Boys, The Black Betty’s of Georgia, Frank’s Angels, Jess Suilenroe of Texas and many more; a fish fry on Friday along with P.E.A.C.E. and a 2 hour dance party.

After an early Sunday service Pilgrim had lunch for $25 which included Pastor Frank Bostic a fantastic play called Swagga.

Now, please come and join Pilgrim on September 24th as it will be celebrating Men’s and Women’s Day along with their own 89th year church anniversary.

Pastor Frank Bostic has a new CD out - Where I’m From, which highlights Keep Jesus First , now on sale for $10.

"Not Only Is God's Work Wonderful.

God's Work Can Never Be Undone."

-African Wisdom

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Challenger Community News •September 14, 2023

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month!

Free Legal Clinic To Serve Buffalo's East Side

SATURDAY SEPT. 16 *Party In the Park, 11 a.m. Massachusetts Ave. Park Free. *Familia Fun Day, The Martin House, 125 Jewett Parkway, 12 Noon Free *Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser for Gabriel Rodriguez Post, 3 p.m. Puncho’s Social Club, 261 Swan Street. $15 advance SUNDAY SEPT. 17 NFL Buffalo Bills Hispanic Heritage Youth Sport Leadership awards, 1 p.m.

Highmark Stadium.

WEDNESDAY SEPT. 20 Celebration of Hispanic Heritage, 1 Naval Park Cove, 5 p.m. Free THURSDAY SEPT. 21 *Vejigante Come Coco: Lectura con Maricruz, 6 p.m., El Batey Puerto Rican Center, 175 Rano St. Free

BLACK HISTORY

continued from page 3

exceed the church’s capacity and was moved outdoors, where 5,000 attend. *FREE SOIL PARTY FOUNDED IN BUFFALO In 1848 Buffalo hosted a major convention for a new political party: The Free Soil Party, founded on an abolitionist platform. 40,000 gathered at Lafayette Square. *WAR MEMORIAL BUILT In 1937 War Memorial Stadium was built. A new Black business district emerged on Jefferson Avenue in the surrounding blocks. “The Old Rock Pile” became home to the Buffalo Bills & Buffalo Bisons. *EVA NOLES. In 1940 Eva Noles became the first African American woman to

become a registered nurse in Buffalo. She graduated at the top of her class and was hired by Roswell Park Cancer Institute. *LEELAND JONES was the first Black on the UB football team. He faced discrimination while travelling, having to stay at separate hotels from White players. In 1949, Jones was elected county supervisor, the first Black to hold political office in Buffalo.

He organized the March of Mothers to protest of school inequality.

Source: Buffalo bike tours, an organization which seeks to amplify Buffalo’s lesser known Histories.

WNYCOSH (WNY Council on Occupational Saftey and Health ) in partnership with Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo, is thrilled to announce a free Legal Clinic on Buffalo's East Side on September 28 from 4:30 -6:30pm at the Merriweather Library. This initiative will provide vital legal assistance and guidance to residents in need, helping them address legal concerns effectively.

The free Legal Clinic will offer consultations with experienced attorneys on various issues, including family law, housing, employment, immigration, and more. Our aim is to empower the community by making legal information and support accessible.

No appointments are required, and attendees are encouraged to bring relevant documents. The clinic will be held on the fourth Thursday of each month, ensuring ongoing access to legal assistance. For more information, please contact Jaela Williams at jw@wnycosh.org “Knowing when to stop, you can avoid any danger.” -Tao Te Ching

Challenger Community News• September 14, 2023

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Entertainment

In rehearsal for the Royale: Matthew Ball, David Mitchell, VerNia Sherisse Garvin, Roosevelt Tidwell III & Vincenzo McNeill.

"THE ROYALE": A True Story Based on World Champion Boxer Jack Johnson "The Royale,” by Marco Ramirez, and co-produced by The Paul Robeson Theatre and Revelation Theatre is based on the true story of Jack Johnson, the first African American Heavyweight boxing World Champion. It is Directed by Verneice Turner on stage at the African American Paul Robeson Theatre now thru September 24.

“The Royal” features Vincenzo McNeill Roosevelt Tidwell III, VerNia Sharisse Garvin , Matthew Ball & David Mitchell. Showtimes are Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 4p.m. Tickets: General admission $30 ; BOGO Thursdays; Students $10 with ID. You can order & pay on the Revelation Theatre Website revelationtheatre.org or pay at the door. Reservations call Revelation Theatre at 716.213.7253 or the African American Cultural Center at 716.884.2013.

Victor Wooten and the Wooten Brothers

ON STAGE!

The Color Purple A Musical Shea's 710 Theatre now through October 1. The musical adaptation of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel spotlights Celie, a downtrodden young woman whose personal awakening over the course of 40 years forms the arc of this epic story. For tickets visit Sheas.org or call 716- 847-1410.

MURDER

BALLAD,

Challenger Community News •September 14, 2023

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Road Less Traveled Productions (456 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14202) - An Off-Broadway sensation, the dramatic story of a love triangle gone wrong, a steamy and fun thriller with a razor's edge. September 14 - October 15, 2023, Thursdays-Saturdays @ 7:30 p.m., Sundays @ 2:00pm. For Tickets: (716) 629-3069 / reservations@ roadlesstraveledproductions. org.

The Magic of Mowtown Saturday, Oct. 14 at Shea's.

Tickets $54 TicketmasterShea’s, 7:30 p.m.,“A Tribute to Hitsville USA” featuring music from The Temptations, Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye and more. Tickets Ticketmaster.

Victor Wooten and the Wooten Brothers will be performing at the CMC International Jazz Festival live October 14, 7:30p.m. at the Villa Maria Auditorium 240 Pine Ridge Rd. For over four decades the Wooten Brothers have been recognized as some of the most talented and dynamic band of brothers in the world. Call 716 855-9383 for tickets or visit online at www.thecoloredmusiciansclub.com This performance is part of the CMC 2023 International Jazz Festival.

Buffalo Fashion Runway: A Confluence of the Arts on September 16

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oin Buffalo Fashion Runway for an extraordinary evening of fashion, creativity, and artistic expression at the Buffalo Fashion Runway- A Confluence of the Arts event! This in-person extravaganza will take place on Saturday, September 16 at 5p.m. at 500 Seneca Street 3rd floor. A mesmerizing and electric fusion of fashion, music, dance, and visual arts talented designers showcase their latest collections on the runway. Watch models strut down the catwalk adorned in stunning ensembles that push boundaries and redefine style. From avant-garde couture to streetwear chic, this event promises to offer something for every fashion enthusiast.

The local designers include: Dare To Be Different,DooProcess x New Suns, Good Neighbors Club, I Got Here Being Me, Faith Over Fear NY, By A Guy. Tickets on eventbrite.com.

SUPPORT THE ARTS!

Challenger Community News• September 14, 2023

DON’T MISS THAT TRANE! Jazz Extravaganza Commemorates Birthday of Jazz Icon John Coltrane

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he Pappy Martin Legacy Jazz Collective and Burchfield Penney Art Center celebrate the

birthday of one of the greatest saxophone players of all time at the annual John Coltrane jazz festival September 28 – 30, 2023! This year will be bigger and better than ever with headliner Ravi Coltrane closing out the festivities on Saturday night in the Buffalo State Performing Arts Center at Rockwell Hall. Check out the full schedule below! Tickets to this year's COLTRANE Celebration are now available to purchase online, by phone, or in person at the Buffalo State Performing Arts Center box office (716-878-3005).

The 2023 Coltrane Celebration Schedule is as Follows: Thursday, September 28 *Opening Reception 6:00 p.m. Burchfield Penney Art Center | Reception Space There will be a special performance by the Love Supreme School of Music from 7:00 p.m. to 7:40 p.m. Burchfield Penney and Pappy Martin Legacy Jazz Society members enjoy early check-in for the reception at 6:00 p.m. *George Caldwell Quartet 8:00 p.m.

Featuring Lawrence Clark at the Burchfield Penney Art Center | Auditorium Acclaimed pianist George Caldwell will be joined by Lawrence Clark (saxophone), Sean Jefferson (drums) Joe Goehle (bass) in this star-studded quartet! ...................................................................

Friday, September 29 *Ron Carter: Finding the Right Notes Film Screening 2:00 p.m.

Burchfield Penney Art Center | Auditorium ...................................................................

Saturday, September 30 *Ravi Coltrane 8:00 p.m.

Accompanied by the Curtis Lundy Trio at the Performing Arts Center | Buffalo State University (Rockwell Hall) The celebration will culminate in a performance by Ravi Coltrane (saxophone) in the Performing Arts Center in Buffalo State University’s Rockwell Hall at 8:00 p.m. He will be joined by COLTRANE Celebration artistic directors Curtis Lundy (upright bass) and George Caldwell (piano), along with Johnathan Blake (drums).

All Coltrane Celebration ticket-holders are invited to attend the opening reception on Thursday, September 28th at 7:00 p.m., and the Documentary Screening on Friday, September 29th at 2:00 p.m. at the Burchfield Penney Art Center. Tickets can be purchased online (processing fees apply) or in person at the Buffalo State Performing Arts Center box office. Buffalo State Performing Arts Center box office hours for in-person or phone sales: Tuesdays through Fridays, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Phone: 716-878-3005

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A SPECIAL ATTICA REMEMBRANCE

Last Thursday the community welcomed home one of Buffalo’s most prolific poets and best selling author Celes Tisdale who is currently on tour with his latest Book When The Smoke Cleared: Attica Prison Poems and Journal . The meet and greet, sponsored by the Challenger News and Zawadi Books, took place at the Merriweather Library where Dr. Tisdale even did a reading from the book and talked to the audience about his experience leading workshops with those incarcerated at Attica shortly after the prison uprising in 1971. The remaining dates for readings and book signings include Buffalo and Erie County Public Library at 1 Lafayette Square Thursday September 14 at 2p.m. and Erie Community College City Campus 121 Ellicott St. on Monday September 18.

About the book: Following the Attica prison uprising in September 1971, Celes Tisdale—a poet and then professor at Buffalo State College—began leading poetry workshops with those incarcerated at Attica. Tisdale’s workshop created a space of radical Black creativity and solidarity, in which poets who lived through the uprising were able to turn their experiences into poetry. The poems written by Tisdale’s students were published as Betcha Ain’t: Poems from Attica in 1974. When the Smoke Cleared contains the entirety of Tisdale’s own poems and journal entries from the three years he taught at Attica, a previously unpublished collection of poems by Attica poets, and a critical introduction by poet Mark Nowak.

The Book is available at Zawadi Books (see their ad page 17).

Challenger Community News •September 14, 2023

New Mural by Jalen Law Recently Unveiled in Town of Amherst

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new mural by artist Jalen Law was unveiled recently at the Amherst Police training facility, which serves many other departments throughout Western New York as well. Assemblymember Karen McMahon was able to recognize the facility with the mural through a recent community arts project, along with necessary funding.

"It's called 'The Future is Amherst.' It celebrates the young people who are the future of our community. The public servants who make our town the safe and prosperous place it is, and the growing diversity of the community that makes Amherst special," McMahon said at the unveiling.

An artist since the age of four, Jalen Law is a Buffalo-based artist, art educator, and entrepreneur whose work supports emerging artists and youth throughout the region’s arts communities. He founded the non-profit organization Buffalo’s Own, Inc. as a resource for local artists looking to advance their professional careers at the local, regional, and national levels. Law has been an artist since the age of four and works primarily in drawing and painting. His first mural was a City of Buffalo initiative to honor essential workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. He was then approached by the Niagara Falls Heritage Center to create a portrait for their Niagara Falls Murals initiative, leading to the creation of his Calvin “Pop” Porter mural. He has since also completed a mural for the NFTA-Metro Portage Road Transportation Center in Niagara Falls, among others. Jalen said he is looking forward to creating more murals in the City of Buffalo.

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Challenger Community News• September 14, 2023

Flower City Arts Center be able to support Ms. Thomas as she continues the work she to Host Ceramist Dr. and her husband began. I can think of no one more deserving of Sharif Bey for Artist the title, ‘Woman of Distinction.’”

During the ceremony, Councilmember Harris presented Ms. Demo & Class Thomas with a certificate of recognition in conjunction with MIDGE THOMAS continued from page 2

the Women of Distinction award.

Laura DiCaprio, author of Letters to Freddie: The Biography of Midge Thomas, also had praise for Mrs. Thomas. “ Working with Midge over the past two-years has been a rewarding experience. Not only was I able to publish my first book, but I got to know a phenomenal woman who initiated positive change in the city of Rochester,”she said.

“Her dedication to helping others has inspired me to do the same, therefore all proceeds from the book will be donated to Downtown ROCs, a non-profit organization that creates economic opportunities for youth in the city, while simultaneously adding beauty and energy to Downtown Rochester.”

Each year state senators select one constituent to decorate with this prestigious honor. The Women of Distinction program highlights exemplary women from across New York whose professional or personal achievements, commitment to excellence and accomplishments merit special recognition.

Comedian Jo Koy Comes to Rochester

Coming off of the highly anticipated Universal Picture film, Easter Sunday and his recent Netflix special, Jo Koy: Live From The Los Angeles Forum, Comedian Jo Koy announces his Jo Koy World Tour. The tour will make a stop at Rochester's West Herr Auditorium Theatre Sunday, November 26. Pre-sale tickets will begin Wednesday, September 13 at 12 p.m., and tickets go on sale Friday, September 15 at 12:00 p.m. Tickets will be available to purchase at the Auditorium Box Office and Ticketmaster.com

Flower City Arts Center, 713 Monroe Ave. Dr. Sharif Bey, renowned ceramicist and college professor, will give a live wheel demonstration and lecture on Saturday, September 16 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at the Flower City Arts Center, 713 Monroe Ave. Dr. Bey’s sculptures are inspired by modernism, functional pottery, Oceanic Art, and Art of the African diaspora.

After the demonstration, there will be a 45-minute lunch break. From 1 - 2 p.m., Dr. Bey will present and take questions. Pre-registration is required and costs $35 for Flower City Arts Center Members and $40 for nonmembers. Please register online at bit.ly/SharifBey2023.

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Micaiah Celebrates 10th Birthday Bash With Book Bag Giveaway!

“Village” for helping to make it all happen. They include The Youth of Making Fishers of Men and Women Inc., Masten District Council Member Ulysees O. Wingo, Sr., Marie Enterprise, Purr-Fit Body, King of Ausome, WUFO Mix 1080 Power 96.5, Will’s BBQ Sauce, Nickel City Construction & Development, Positive Nation Productions, Timmy Gleen & Family, DJ Ca$h Tim Overbeck, Environmental Education Associates, Elim Christian Fellowship, Challenger Community News, Priceless Home Décor, Verizon TTC, Property Upgradez, Mission: Ignite, Marshawn Quinney & PHAM, Pastor Warren and First Lady Deborah Adams, Avery Morris Construction LLC, Mandella Market, the Smith Family and a host of others.

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retty Micaiah Brundige hasn’t given much serious thought to what she’d like to be when she grows up.

But she does know that whatever it is, she’d like to be able to help people.

The articulate little 5th grader appears to be off to an impressive start.

For her 10th birthday she and her equally impressive 14 year old sister London, hosted a Back to School Book Bag Giveaway celebration complete with bounce houses, music, roller skating and free food in addition to the book bag and school supplies for neighborhood kids. Plus there were prizes! One child received a $100 gift card for a back to school outfit and another received a desk top computer courtesy of Mission Ignite!

The festivities took place on Labor Day at 1557 Jefferson Avenue. These two young budding community leaders wanted to make sure their peers could celebrate going back to school and learning rather than dreading it! They also wanted to foster the Spirit of God and Fellowship!

To make it all possible they asked several Community Partners to come together and assist them in this endeavor and the results were a resounding YES! They pray that the smiles and fun had by all will serve as proof that: Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. (2 Corinthians 9:6-8) When interviewed by a local TV station Michael Brun-

Challenger Community News •September 14, 2023

A FAMILY AFFAIR: The beautiful Brundige Family, Chalise, Micaiah (w/Birthday Girl Crown), Shalisha (Mom), London, Lynda (Grandma) and Lynda (grandaughter) and dad Michael (rear).

dige expressed pride in his girls, especially Micaiah who chose to spend her birthday gifting, rather than focusing on receiving.

“For someone that young on their birthday to be wanting to do that when everyone else is about getting the gifts…for her to have that in her heart is special,” he said.

The Brundige Family would like to thank “God” and the

Future Hope Pre-Apprenticeship & Reco

Now Accepting Applications: Program Days/Hours: Mon-Fri: 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Challenger Community News• September 14, 2023

This is an opportunity for those who have been incarc

Office: 60 Hedley Place Now Accepting Applications: Program Days/Hours: 15 Mon-F Buffalo NY 14208 Office: 60 Hedley Place Buffalo NY 14208 Future Hope Pre-Apprenticeship & Recovery Program, Inc. Call to schedule an appointment!

Call to schedule an appointmen (716) 331 - 3730 This is an opportunity for those who have been incarcerated & returning (716) citizens.

331 - 3730

Now Accepting Applications: Program Days/Hours: Mon-Fri: 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

APPLICATIONS And REGISTRATION APPLICATIONS And REGISTRATION Office: 60 Hedley Place • Buffalo NY 14208 Sessions Call to Schedule an Appointment! (716) 331-3730 are Quarterly Every Three M Sessions are Quarterly Every Three Months program designed to de APPLICATIONSA&Pre-Apprenticeship REGISTRATION A Pre-Apprenticeship program designed to develop andare enhance Sessions Quarterly Every Three Months workforce development skills in the buil

Pre-Apprenticeship program designed to develop and enhance In Accordance with: workforce development skills in the Abuilding trades.

In Accordance with: Division of Apprentice Standard Training Under provisions of Department of Labor within General Laws Program Information: Participants will be trained and educated in: ● Basic Carpentry ● Painting ● Taping ● Roofing ● Drywall ● HiSet Prep (as needed) ● Offering Recovery Coaching Candidates Complete Carpenters Pre-Apprentice Training Program!

workforce development skills in the building Division of Apprentice Standardtrades.

Training

Under provisions of InofAccordance Department Labor withinwith: General Laws Division of Apprentice Standard Training Program Information: Under provisions ofeducated Department Participants will be trained and in: of Labor within General Laws ● Basic Carpentry ● Painting Program Information: ● Taping Participants will be trained and educated in: ● Roofing • Basic Carpentry ● Drywall • Painting ● HiSet Prep (as needed) • Taping ● Offering Recovery Coaching

• Roofing

For& more information contact: Future Hope Pre-Apprenticeship Recovery Program, • Drywall

• HiSet Prep (as needed)Office: (716) 331 - 3730

rm@fhap.info • Offering Recovery This is an opportunity for those who have Coaching beenEmail: incarcerated & returnin

www.futurehopeapprenticeship.org

Pastor Program Emanuel L. Days/Hours: Hutcherson, Founder & CEO9:00 / Stan Martin, Now Accepting Mon-Fri: a.m.

- 3: ForApplications: more information contact: Office: (716) 331-3730 Office: Email: rm@fhap.info 60 Hedley Place www.futurehopeapprenticeship.

The North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters is proud to announce that the first For more information contact: cohort of their Pre-Apprentice Program has completed their training. This was a statewide initiaOffice: (716) 331 3730 Buffalo NY 14208 tive to provide union training to interested and committed candidates who did not have enough Pastor Emanuel L Hutcherson, Founder &Hope CEO / Stan Martin,&Director of Buffalo Officeand volunteers do not disc Future Pre-Apprenticeship Recovery program, employees, Email: rm@fhap.info work experience or formal training to enter the standard apprenticeship. Local 276 graduated origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disa Call schedule an appointment!

Future Hope Pre-Apprenticeship & Recovery program, employees, andto volunteers do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, five from the Buffalo center (4 from Buffalo and 1 from Cheektowaga) and five from the Rochstatus, or based on income derived from a public www.futurehopeapprenticeship.org religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression),family/parental sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status,assistance or based program. on income derived from a public assistance ester center. The WNY WDI provided assistance to help the students. Chris Austin is the Busi(716)program.

331 - 3730 ness manager for Local 276.

And REGISTRATION Pastor Emanuel L. Hutcherson, Founder & CEO / Stan Martin, Director of BuffaloAPPLICATIONS Office

Sessions are Quarterly Every Three Months A Pre-Apprenticeship program designed to develop and en workforce development skills in the building trades.

Future Hope Pre-Apprenticeship & Recovery program, employees, and volunteers do not discriminate based on race, color, national

Indisability, Accordance with: status, origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, age, marital Division of Apprentice Standard Training family/parental status, or based on income derived from a public assistance program.

Under provisions of Department of Labor within General Laws Program Information: Participants will be trained and educated in: ● Basic Carpentry ● Painting ● Taping ● Roofing ● Drywall ● HiSet Prep (as needed) ● Offering Recovery Coaching For more information contact: Office: (716) 331 - 3730 Email: rm@fhap.info www.futurehopeapprenticeship.org

Pastor Emanuel L. Hutcherson, Founder & CEO / Stan Martin, Director of Buffa

Future Hope Pre-Apprenticeship & Recovery program, employees, and volunteers do not discriminate based on rac origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital statu family/parental status, or based on income derived from a public assistance program.

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Challenger Community News •September 14, 2023

NNPA Commentary Biden Needs a Reparations Commission for 2024

Political Domino Theories

eaders within the Democratic Party in the last Congress demonstrated their political will for a reparations commission. 217 confirmed yes votes in the House and half of the Senate Committee chairs, along with the Senate Leader, and many of their colleagues, signed on to the Senate bill.

Mr. President, the call for justice in America is at a historic high. This current call for justice is founded squarely on the issue of Reparations. This is an American call for justice – not only has it been identified as the major issue by Black Americans via a 2021 Congressional Black Caucus poll, but in a recent USA Today poll, 83 % of Americans said racism is a problem facing the US. This explains why an array of Americans has enthusiastically joined this call for reparatory justice – allied ethnic groups, many of the largest social justice organizations in the country, a diversity of religious orders, America’s most prestigious universities, major US corporations, some of the largest philanthropies in America, and of immense importance, following Evanston, Illinois – numerous municipalities and States within the Union. This is proof that much of America wants to see this issue addressed and resolved now!

Leaders within the Democratic Party in the last Congress demonstrated their political will for a reparations commission. 217 confirmed yes votes in the House and half of the Senate Committee chairs, along with the Senate Leader, and many of their colleagues, signed on to the Senate bill.

However, as you are aware, Mr. President, the bipartisanship that is needed to pass the bill in the Senate does not exist. Thus, the only way to move this issue forward, which much of America is demanding, is through an Executive Order.

This must be done immediately as the next Presidential election is approaching. On one side of this issue are those calling for “No Reparations No Vote,” in their attempt to drive Black voters to the Republican Party. On the other side, are those of us who fully understand the significance of the Black vote for a Democratic Party win. Statistics have shown that since 1960, except for 1964, the Black vote was the deciding factor in each of the Democratic Party’s wins in presidential elections.

In essence, the Black vote gave American Presidents Kennedy, Carter, Clinton, Obama, and you Mr. Biden.

A growing number of major publications have recognized this dependence of the Democratic Party on the Black vote. Immediately after your election, Vox reported – “The Black Vote is key to Democratic success”- saying you “could not have been competitive without it.” At this same time, the New York Magazine shouted, Joe Biden Owes It All to African American Voters. In April of this year, Time Magazine wrote, Black Voters Gave Biden the White House. They May Determine Whether He Stays There – the writer concluded “Put plainly: you can’t win the nomination or the White House as a Democrat without the Black vote. And finally, just last month, the Washington Post echoed the Times writer, by saying the Black vote “will be crucial in a Biden bid for reelection.”

We are 20% of your base Mr. President, more than all other people of color combined. When we come out and vote, Democrats win! Certainly, Mr. Bidden, the Republicans are fully aware of this as they have directed enormous resources to suppress the Black vote– by spending nearly $1 billion in the last election and introducing over 900 pieces of legislation, according to Marc Morial of the National Urban League. The Democratic Party needs to both counter these efforts by Republicans and address the low enthusiasm for the Democratic Party in the Black community.

This counter-offensive must be an immediate statement announcing the implementation of an HR 40-like Reparations Commission via Executive Order by the President of the United States of America. This, and only this, will generate the turnout in the Black community necessary for a Democratic Party victory in 2024. The Democratic Party can no longer waffle on this issue of reparations. We need a Reparations Commission Now! You, Mr. President, need a Reparations Commission now – for any hope of a 2024 victory.

Speculation abounds involving elected officials leaving their posts for new jobs — and who will fill the vacancies they leave behind.

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NATIONAL/ WORLD NEWS Ai-Powered Killer Robots Poised To Shape U.s.-China Rivalry

Ghost sharks: U.S. allies and China are working to develop uncrewed subs, warships, fighter jets, aerial drones and ground combat vehicles that rely on artificial intelligence to operate autonomously. Upside: Removing the human operator allows for amazing innovation. Downside: The potential for robots to make lethal decisions on their own.-REUTERS

Eating Fruit While Black…

A New Rochelle, N.Y., police officer shot Jarrell Garris, 37 on July 3 after he was accused of eating some grapes and a banana without paying, his family’s lawyer said.

Last of the Tuskegee Airmen, Col. Carl Johnson, Dies at 97

Col. Carl Croston Johnson, one of the last known living member of the famed Tuskegee Airmen, died last week at age 97 in Reston, Virginia. Col. Johnson was born in 1926 and was discharged from active duty in the US Army Air Force in 1947. The Tuskegee Airmen was a group of African-American military pilots who served in World War II.

Proud Boy Behind Bar

Former Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio was sentenced Tuesday to 22 years in prison the longest sentence given to anyone in relation to the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol.

Natural Disasters

Around 10,000 people are thought to be missing following floods in Libya. Around a quarter of the city of Derna was wiped out after a dam burst in a storm, and more than 1,000 bodies have been recovered.

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By Geoff Kelly/Investigative Post

his past summer, speculation has run amok regarding exit strategies for longtime elected officials: Will SUNY Buffalo State hire Mayor Byron Brown, or perhaps Congressman Brian Higgins, as its next president?

How about Erie Community College? That financially beleaguered institution, too, is seeking new leadership, having run through three presidents — one of them carrying the prefix “interim” for two years — since former Congressman Jack Quinn left the post in 2017.

Or perhaps Higgins, who began his 10th term in January, will land instead as the head of Shea’s Performing Arts Center, which lost its president last fall, amid staff complaints of a toxic work environment. It’s a prestigious job with high pay and little stress, at least compared to Buffalo State or ECC, both of which face fiscal crises and declining enrollments.

As for Brown, who is almost halfway through his record-setting fifth term, his campaign for the Buffalo State presidency has been beset by opposition from faculty and a pesky obstacle: He has only a bachelor of arts degree — political science and journalism, 1983 — from the institution he reportedly would like to helm. The job description requires at least a master’s degree.

Higgins, on the other hand, has a master’s degree from Harvard’s JFK School of Government, which he earned while working for the Erie County Legislature, almost 30 years ago.

Or perhaps neither Higgins nor Brown is going anywhere.

Nonetheless, other elected officials and the staffers who serve them are busy plotting their futures in the event one or both those seats become vacant. And they all gossip.

Most of the domino theories being bandied about begin with state Sen. Tim Kennedy filling Higgins’s seat in Congress. While Kennedy’s gaudy state campaign war chest — more than $2 million — cannot be used in an election for federal office, it can buy a lot of support from local Democratic Party chairs and elected officials.

Kennedy has a much clearer path than, say, Brown or Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz, both of whom have test-driven runs for Congress before. Poloncarz is in the middle of his own reelection campaign. Brown’s 2021 reelection relied heavily on support from South Buffalo, whose voters likely would favor Kennedy over Brown.

If Higgins were to leave before next July — that is, six months before the end of his current term — Gov. Kathy Hochul would call a special election to fill the vacancy.

So, if Kennedy were to go to D.C., who would backfill his state Senate seat?

Erie County Legislature Chair April Baskin is a darling of party headquarters. But then, so is Fillmore District Common Council Member Mitch Nowakowski, who is young and ambitious, as Kennedy was in 2010 when he — then an Erie County legislator — bucked both Higgins, his mentor, and Democratic Party leadership to run for Senate.

If it’s Baskin, the rumormongers say, then look for Cheektowaga’s Tim Meyers to be voted chair of the Legislature and Buffalo’s Howard Johnson to move into Meyers’s current slot as majority leader. And expect Johnson to keep his eye on Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes, 71, now in her 20th year in Albany, should she retire at the end of her current term.

All this may be no more than a parlor game: It’s possible Higgins will stay put. And rumors of Brown’s imminent departure — for the State Liquor Authority, as one story had it, or, once upon a time, to become Andrew Cuomo’s lieutenant governor — are legion.

But what does it say that Higgins’s longtime chief of staff, Chuck Eaton, is leaving this month to take a high-paying gig as executive director of the Erie County Water Authority?

And that Brown’s deputy mayor, Crystal Rodriguez-Dabney, decamped in May to become chief diversity officer at the Roswell Park Cancer Institute?

Other dominoes are poised to fall in Western New York’s political ecosphere, too.

It’s widely believed Erie County District Attorney John Flynn will not run for a third term next year. Rumor has it he’ll say as much soon — or at least as soon as he negotiates a landing spot. Many district attorneys have parlayed their retirement into judgeships, but we’re told Flynn would rather make some money in the private sector.

Flynn will need to make a move soon: His first deputy, Michael Keane, has already lined up support to succeed him, at least within the DA’s office and the Democratic Party. And there are just five months between now and February, when candidates for office will begin collecting signatures on nominating petitions for the June primary elections.

SUPPORT Investigative Post is a nonprofit investigative reporting center based in Buffalo. You can find their work at investigativepost.org and on WGRZ, Channel 2. You can subscribe to their free weekly newsletter by emailing info@investigativepost.org

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Challenger Community News• September 14, 2023

VOICES

Are Young, Black Workers Becoming Expendable?

A SUMMER OF HEALING: Pictured above are scenes from the "Beating of the Drums" - The beautiful closing ceremony /event to mark the end of this summer's amazing "Healing by the Water" twice weekly gatherings at Broderick Park - Freedom Park!. Challenger Photos

In support of Renaming Broderick Park to Freedom Park

Broderick Park is Sacred Ground. Its Name Should Reflect That!

The Friends of Broderick Park recently petitioned the city to change the name of Broderick Park – located at the foot of ferry Street along the Niagara River which is part of the Underground Railroad history – to Freedom Park. Public meetings dealing with the proposed name change began Tuesday in the Council Chambers at City Hall. The Friends of Broderick Park and its president, George Johnson, outlined the reasons for their request in the following letter.

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he Board of Directors for The Friends of Broderick Park is respectfully requesting a change of name from Broderick Park to Freedom Park. This park and its many attractions, attracts visitors from every council district in Buffalo, people across NY State and the entire U.S., as well as international visitors.

We are asking for the name change to Freedom Park for several reasons. First and most importantly is the Park's significance to the Underground Railroad. On September 9th, 2010 this Park was officially recognized by the National Park Service as a National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom site. The park is considered sacred ground by Buffalo’s African American community as many of the ancestors lost their lives while attempting to cross to freedom from this spot. The Park is also home to the Underground Railroad Museum, which receives many visitors daily. Several of the Board members act as tour guides for the museum, showing visitors the various photographs and answering questions.

The Friends of Broderick Park Board of Directors believes that a name change to Freedom Park is in keeping with this significant and sacred site.

The proposed name change is in keeping with many of the programs that take place at the Park. This year, Juneteenth was officially recognized as a National Holiday in the United States. Buffalo has one of the largest and longest running Juneteenth Festivals in the country, 48 years. The Buffalo Juneteenth Festival sponsors annual Underground Railroad tours that include a stop at the Park to educate about the Park’s significance in the Underground Railroad movement, and the annual Maafa, a memorial ceremony honoring the ancestors that lost their lives while seeking freedom.

The Friends of Broderick Park sponsors a summer long event called Healing By the Water, which takes place on Thursdays and Sundays at the Park. These events honor the position of the Park as a gateway to freedom and healing for all populations that have experienced enslavement, and separation from home and family, but especially meaningful to the African American and BIPOC people that attend these events.

Buffalo United Front and Friends of Broderick Park also hosts Family Fishing Days, which take place late June annually. This event is attended by families, especially families with children from across Buffalo.

A letter and certificate from the National Park Service supports the importance of this Park to the struggle for Freedom and its place as an Underground Railroad site.

Sincerely, The Board of Directors, Friends of Broderick Park George Johnson, President

I know the title of my Op-Ed is controversial but just think about the definition of the word Expendable and the current state of the situation of employment among Black teenagers and young adult males in the low income sections of the city, especially the eastside of Buffalo.

Expendable is defined as, "Of little significance when compared to an overall purpose and therefore are abandoned.”

The overall purpose of this country has always been about the dollars and not the financial wellness of all its citizens, especially the low income or minority ones. A few decades ago, jobs were plentiful and young workers were sought out and hired regularly and frequently. Now, with many retirees going back into the workforce and newly arriving immigrants and refugees competing for jobs with young workers and getting hired, our once sought after young men and women may find themselves outside of the business establishment, looking in at other people working.

I am not trying to pit one group of workers against another, but one has to admit that there are stores and businesses located in the heart of the Black community with none or maybe one or two Black teenagers working there. I am just saying that employers are not going to be putting up with workers coming to work late, unkempt and with surly attitudes. And if the worker does not read well or cannot count money or is unable to make change correctly, they will not be hired, it's as simple as that!

We are 'barking up the wrong tree' if we think jobs will always be available for us in the fast food restaurants and dollar stores in our neighborhoods. But, guess what , take a slow walk down your street. You will see that your neighborhood has become everybody's neighborhood!

The times, they are a-changing. And so are job opportunities and our once exclusively, African American communities.

Our youth need to take advantage of all the scholarships and programs available in our schools and community agencies to ensure that they won't be replaced by a robot, Artificial Intelligence or ambitious, deeply rooted or newly arrived citizens who are appreciative of the opportunities offered here and are ready to take any kind of jobs out there.

18 LEGAL NOTICE Plaintiff designates ERIE as the place of trial situs of the real property SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Mortgaged Premises: 47 NORWOOD AVENUE, HAMBURG, NY 14075 Section: 182.20, Block: 5, Lot: 6&7 SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK INDEX NO. 801775/2022 COUNTY OF ERIE _____________________________ MEB LOAN TRUST IV, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE Plaintiff, vs.

MARK SKINGLEY, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF EARL M. SKINGLEY; if living, and if she/he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general 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, or either of 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 CHERYL SKINGLEY, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF EARL M. SKINGLEY; JESSE RANDALL SKINGLEY, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF EARL M. SKINGLEY; CANDICE SKINGLEY, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF EARL M. SKINGLEY; HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF DARIN SKINGLEY, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF EARL M. SKINGLEY; HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF EARL M. SKINGLEY; HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF ALAYNE SKINGLEY, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF EARL M. SKINGLEY; any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general 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, or either of 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; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, John Doe #1, "JOHN DOE #2" through "JOHN DOE #12," the last twelve names being 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.

To the above named Defendants

YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service.

Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you.

NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $90,000.00 and interest, recorded on July 24, 2006, in Liber 13302 at Page 5550, of the Public Records of ERIE County, New York., covering premises known as 47 NORWOOD AVENUE, HAMBURG, NY 14075.

The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.

ERIE County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county.

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 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 the mortgage company will not stop the 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: August 18, 2023 ROBERTSON ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff Theresa Regis, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675 September 14, 21, 28 October 5

LEGAL NOTICE Bid Monsignor Carr Clinic Building Renovation Project Bids will be received by RP Oak Hill Building Co., Inc. for the Monsignor Carr Clinic Building Renovation Project on 9/27/2023 at 2:00pm. Please fax bids (716-822-4367) or email (bids@rpoakhill.com) prior to 2:00 pm. There will be a pre-bid meeting on 9/13/2023 @ 9:00am located at20 Rich Street, Buffalo, NY 14211. The scope of work includes select demolition, concrete, masonry, steel, doors, carpentry, flooring, painting, specialties, elevator, M/E/P, etc. The contract documents may be examined at Construction Exchange or can be purchased at Avalon Printing, (P: 716-995-7777). This project is open shop. ***W/M/DBE & SDVOB participation is encouraged.

LEGAL NOTICE NDEX NO. 801008/2020 Plaintiff designates ERIE as the place of trial situs of the real property SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Mortgaged Premises: 184 ROEBLING AVENUE BUFFALO, NY 14215 District: Section: 90.73 Block: 4 Lot: 12 SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF ERIE _____________________________ NEW RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE, LLC Plaintiff, vs.

DOROTHY N. BISHOP, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF EDWARD BISHOP; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF EDWARD BISHOP, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general 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, or either of 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; HSBC BANK NEVADA, N.A.; 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 being 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.

To the above named 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) in the event the United States of America is made a party defendant, the time to answer for the said United States of America shall not expire until (60) days after service of the Summons; 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 OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $60,000.00 and interest, recorded on July 23, 2004, at Liber 13175 Page 9706, of the Public Records of ERIE County, New York, covering premises known as 184 ROEBLING AVENUE BUFFALO, NY 14215.

The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.

ERIE County is designated as the place of trial because the real

property affected by this action is located in said county.

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 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 the mortgage company will not stop the 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: July 18, 2023 RAS BORISKIN, LLC Attorney for Plaintiff OLUWATOBI ADEDOKUN, ESQ. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675 August 17, 24, 31 September 14

LEGAL NOTICE Bid Glynn Family Services Center – Interior Renovation Bids will be received by RP Oak Hill Building Co., Inc. for the Glynn Family Services Center – Interior Renovation Project on 9/28/2023 at 2:00pm. Please fax bids (716-8224367) or email (bids@rpoakhill.com) prior to 2:00 pm. There will be a prebid meeting on 9/15/2023 @ 1:00pm located at625 Tronolone Place, Niagara Falls, NY 14301. The scope of work includes selective demolition, millwork, doors, glass, carpentry, flooring, painting, specialties, M/E/P, etc. The contract documents may be examined at Construction Exchange.

This project is open shop. ***W/M/ DBE & SDVOB participation is encouraged.

LEGAL NOTICE NEWS RELEASE ERIE COUNTY GOVERNMENT ERIE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE PHONE ECDOH 716-858-7226 Dr. Gale Burstein, Commissioner of the Erie County Department of Health announced today, September 6, 2023 that a in person/virtual meeting of the Erie County Department Board of Health is scheduled for Tuesday, September 19, 2023 at 3:30 P.M. Included on the agenda will be a review of the May 2, 2023 meeting minutes, updates on the Food Policy Council, Sanitary Code revisions regarding tobacco vaping, retail permits; Commissioner’s update as well as Old/New Business.

LEGAL NOTICE Bid NFTA PROCUREMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL/BID 230064 – FEDERAL GOVERNMENT RELATIONS SERVICES Go to NFTA's Website to register as a supplier and for instructions to download the Procurement Document at https://www.nfta.com/departments/ procurement.

Challenger Community News •September 14, 2023 LEGAL NOTICE BID Advertisement for Bids August 31, 2023 Roycroft Campus Corporation 31 South Grove Street East Aurora, New York 14052 NOTICE OF SOLICITATION OF SPECIALTY CONTRACTORS FOR RESTORATION WORK at the ROYCROFT PRINT SHOP, 21 SOUTH GROVE STREET, EAST AURORA, NY for TOWER RESTORATION – PHASE 2 INTERIOR Sealed bids for the Roycroft Print Shop Tower Restoration Phase 2 - Interior will be received until 11:00 am, Thursday, September 28, 2023, at the Roycroft Campus Powerhouse, 39 South Grove Street, East Aurora, NY 14052 (Attn: Curt Maranto), where they will be opened and read publicly. Mailed or currier delivered bids should be sent to Roycroft Campus Corp., 31 South Grove St., E. Aurora, NY 14052, in advance of the bid date, and clearly marked “Print Shop Construction Bid.”. Each bid must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the Bidding and Contract Documents and must be accompanied by references of similar projects. Work must be performed by contractors with no less than five years successful experience in completion of similar projects for State, National or locally registered landmarks. Contractors must submit a list of completed projects, including project name, address, owner and consultant. (Similar projects to be listed on the Bid Form).

This project is being funded by a grant administered by Erie County, New York. The Contractor, by bidding on the contract, acknowledges and pledges to fully cooperate with the Roycroft Campus Corporation in meeting County requirements as set forth in the Bidding and Contract Documents.

• Effective Thursday September 7, 2023, Bid Documents may be examined via the Online Plan Room at Construction Exchange of Buffalo & WNY, 2660 William St.., Buffalo, New York 14227; (716) 874-3435.

Documents may be purchased at the same location.

• There will be a pre-bid meeting on Thursday September 14, 2023, at 9:00 AM at the Roycroft Print Shop, 21 South Grove Street, East Aurora, New York.

• Questions must be submitted in writing no later than the end of the business Thursday, September 21, 2023, attention Michael Meyer, RA at Flynn Battaglia Architects, PC. Email (mmeyer@flynnbattaglia.com ) or phone (716-854-2424) are acceptable.

• All Addenda, if any, will be provided via the Online Plan Room at Construction Exchange of Buffalo & WNY. Please provide email contact information.

This project is supported in whole or in part, by federal funds awarded to the County of Erie through the American Rescue Plan Act. As such it is subject to all federal rules and regulations pertinent thereto, including, but not limited to, federal policy of encouraging the participation of minority and women business enterprises as sources of suppliers, equipment, construction, and services.

The Roycroft Campus Corporation has been and will continue to be an equal opportunity organization. All qualified Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBE) suppliers, contractors and/or businesses will be afforded equal opportunity without discrimination because of race, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual preference, or Vietnam Era Veterans status.

LEGAL NOTICE BID NFTA PROCUREMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL/BID 230043 – 2023-2024 SEASONAL CHEMICALS Go to NFTA's Website to register as a supplier and for instructions to download the Procurement Document at https://www.nfta.com/departments/ procurement.

LLC'S NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY The Earverse LLC. Filed with SSNY on 05/31/2023. Office: Erie County.

SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail copy to 346 Cable St, Buffalo, NY 14206. Purpose: any lawful.

September14,21,28 October 5,12, 19 NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY RUBY R ROSE LLC filed Articles of Organization with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 8/11/23. Office location: Erie County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 345 BROADWAY ST, SUITE 120, BUFFALO, NY 14204. Purpose: any lawful act or activity.

September14,21,28 October 5,12, 19 NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY 1er Cru, LLC filed Articles of Organization with the New York Department of State on 08/25/2023. Its office is located in Erie County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the Company upon whom process against it may be served and a copy of any process shall be mailed to 65 Burbank Dr, Amherst, NY 14226. Purpose is any lawful purpose.

September14,21,28 October 5,12,19

19

Challenger Community News• September 14, 2023

RISE UP RIGHT SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS

W

elcome to Rise Up Right. Let's Rise Up!

High School Football #7 Pioneer 44 South Park 12 Bennett 36 McKinley 0 #2 Jamestown 35 Niagara Falls 6 Wilson 53 Cardinal O'Hara 12 Upcoming Games This Week •Cheektowaga vs Pioneer •#3 Cansius vs LaSalle •Niagara Falls vs Hutch Tech •#20 McKinley vs Niagara Wheatfield •West Seneca East vs South Park •#13 Lackawanna vs Tonawanda Buffalo Bisons Baseball The Buffalo Bisons just recently finished their home stand against Lehigh Valley and currently sit three games behind Durham for the best record in their respective division. The Bisons will be looking to add on wins to their record if they want to make the playoffs. Can the Bisons finish the month off on a strong note? The playoffs are in the rear view.

Buffalo Sabres Hockey The anticipation looms large as the Buffalo Sabres season is quickly approaching. The Sabres are favored to make the playoffs this season.

The Sabres preseason starts against the Capitals on September 24th. The Sabres first home preseason game will be on September 26th against the Boston Bruins. Their regular season will kick off on October 12th at home against the New York Rangers.

Buffalo Bulls Football The UB Bulls football season kicked off against the Wisconsin Badgers. The Badgers in the second half would be a thorn in Bulls side as they ran away with a convincing 38 to 17 victory. This past week the UB Bulls posted their home game against FCS opponent, the Fordham Rams.

The atmosphere looked very promising as the Bulls took a 21-3 lead early but Fordham refused to go away and the Bulls would surrendered 37

EMPLOYMENT

points between the second and fourth quarter as Ford shocked the UB Stadium by walking out with a 40-37 victory. This is the second time that the UB Bulls have opened up at home with a loss to a FCS team. The Bulls will face Liberty at home this Saturday at noon.

For more sports talk and news follow me on Facebook @ Andre Robinson or D'Andre Torch Robinson. Join the Rise Up Family Sports Network for a look at all the daily sports shows. Tune into the WUFO sports report every Sunday at 6pm, and every Monday and Wednesday at 10pm . Remember to Act Accordingly as you continue to support your Rise

Up Right articles.

RADNEY'S BILLS REPORT

Bills vs Jets: A Disappointing Loss

I

t did not take long for the Bills to put Jets QB Aaron Rogers out of the game/season with a torn Achilles tendon during the fourth play of his offensive career with the Jets after a sack

by Bills Edge rusher Leonard Floyd.

The Bills run defense was non existence with Jets running back Breece Hall’s two carries for 109 yards in the first half. The Bills should have brought up practice squad linebacker Christian Kirksey. Kirksey has 9 years of experience and can make tackles at the line of scrimmage.

The Bills outside linebacker Matt Milano had an outstanding game with key tackles and an interception. Milano was the best Bill on the field with several bone crushing hits especially the one on Dalvin Cook along the sidelines was quite memorable.

Josh Allen continues to show a lack of patience and very poor decision making by not taking what the defense gives you. Allen seems not to be maturing into a seasoned QB; but continues to revert back to his early years. Allen has been in the league six years and still refuses to take what the defense gives him and not take unnecessary hits. Late in the fourth quarter he turned the ball over again by not throwing to a wide-open Murray out of the backfield, instead choosing to go to a double covered Gabe Davis along the sidelines. Allen’s football IQ has always been quite low and he continues to not understand the game. It seems he misses Brian Daboll’s experience and new Offensive Coordinator Ken Dorsey has not been able to get through to him. It’s always been between the ears with Allen and his inability to withstand critical situations. Instead he panics and loses his composure on a regular basis.

Dorsey called a good game against the Jets but Allen stopped taking what the defense gave him and ran into trouble throwing into double coverage.

Said Jets cornerback Sauce Gardener:” The Bills were attacking me at the beginning and it got to the point that guys waited for (Allen) to scramble around and eventually receivers would make their moves. I was not 100%, my legs were cramping up. We knew Allen would eventually throw the deep ball and we made a play each time.”

The Jets NFL offensive rookie of the 2022 season Garrett Wilson said, “My mom putting me in dance and gymnastics classes when I was young helped me in making that back shoulder touchdown. I had to make a play on the ball and Bills cornerback Tre'Davious White had good position but I was still able to bring the ball into my body for the reception.”

The punt return was a fitting end to a sloppy game by the Buffalo Bills. The Bills defense played well enough to win and Bills Defensive Coordinator/ Head coach Sean McDermott is much more aggressive with various blitz packages that kept Jets QB Zach Wilson guessing most of the night. Bills safeties Micah Hyde and Jordan Poyer both seem to have lost a step and can’t make game saving tackles on speedy players like Breece Hall of the Jets.

The Bills open the home portion of their schedule with Las Vegas Raiders coming to town. Bills defense must stop Raiders running back Josh Jacobs and force QB Jimmy G into turnovers. If Josh Allen doesn’t turn the ball over and takes what the defense gives him Bills will win 24 – 17.

Follow me on Twitter@georgeradman, FACEBOOK: George Radney & Real Deal Sports Show, RADIO: WLGZ HD2 The Beat 105.5 FM Every Saturday Morning 8am – 9am; YouTube: Real Deal Sports Show, please subscribe cost you nothing but means everything to us.

EMPLOYMENT

20

Frederick Douglass Towers Annual Family Day!

T

here is nothing more gratifying than putting a smile on the face of a child!

With funding from the Ralph C Wilson Jr. Legacy Funds administered by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, GObike, the Jesse Clipper Post C(EUGENE PIERCE), The Frederick Douglass Tenants Association (Community Event Coordinators: Husband and wife Erica Smith, Charles German (Chucky), Buffalo Freedom Gardens and Hope Program Inc. Org (HIPO) Hope Isom) gifted 9 children with bikes, helmets, locks and safety resources at the Annual Family Day celebration August 26 for residents at the Frederick Douglass Towers The events of the past couple of years have brought to the forefront how invaluable community, wellness and the joy of play is to our children. Through a unique collaboration and partnership the Jesse Clipper Post, Buffalo Freedom Gardens, and Hope Program Inc. Org (HIPO) was able to build equity by providing personal mobility and access to free play and encourage behaviors that will lead to improved long term health outcomes and quality of life. We love our children and want only the best for them. We lead by example and give “hope” from the heart! -Submitted by Gail Wells

Challenger Community News •September 14, 2023

21

Challenger Community News• September 14, 2023

BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS!

COVERAGE FOR THE THINGS YOU CARE FOR n Coverage you can customize to meet your needs n Vacant/Occupied Properties n Renters Insurance n Surety Bonds n Notary Services

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Call about our Certified Defensive Driving Classes!

SEPTEMBER •51ST ANNUAL BLACK ACHIEVERS AWARDS DINNER, Saturday, September 30 at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center, 153 Franklin Street. For more info visit www.buffaloblackachievers.org Buffalo Center for Health Equity sixth annual Igniting Hope Conference on September 29th-30th 2023 Igniting Hope Conference Friday, September 29 at 12:30 p.m.; Saturday, September 30 at 1:30 p.m OCTOBER 2023 CHILDREN’S GARDEN FESTIVAL Sunday, October 8 from 2 - 5 pm in Martin Luther King, Jr. Park, co-presented by the Olmsted Parks Conservancy. free food and giveaways, children’s bike repairs, games, music, entertainment, and environmental and gardening related activities with the goal of bringing families and neighbors together.

12th ANNUAL VICTORIAN TEA AND LUNCHEON, presented by the Women’s Health Broadcast Network, Saturday, October 14, Noon – 3 p.m., Salvatores Italian Garden, 6461 Transit Road. Keynote Speaker, Awards Presentation. $65.

The family and friends of Eddie Mae Harris would like to wish her continued blessings of good health and prosperity as she celebrates her 80th Birthday on Saturday September 16th, 2023 in a private celebration!

We love you Mae, holler back after 80!( Her actual birthday is September 14th)

CMC International Jazz Festival with Victor Wooten & The Wooten Brothers Saturday, October 14 · 7pm Villa Maria College 240 Pine Ridge Road call tix call (716) 855-9383 or visit www.thecoloredmusiciansclub.com

•44TH Annual Hispanic Women’s League Scholarship Awards Celebration, Acqua, 2192 Niagara St. 10 a.m. For more info. visit www.hispanicwomenleague.org

•WUFO Health, Wealth & Education Expo, Sat. Oct. 28, 4-9 p.m. Acqua, 2192 Niagara St. Visit www.power96.5radio.com

NOVEMBER A celebration in honor of

22

Challenger Community News •September 14, 2023

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Challenger Community News• September 14, 2023

CALENDAR OF EVENTS SAT. SEPT. 16 Joyce Wilson-Nixon Memorial 11 AM - 12 PM True Bethel Baptist Church, 907 E Ferry St. where a Celebration of Life will immediately follow at 12 noon.

Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor and Buffalo History Channel outside film screening 136 Broadway.

Pre-Screening stories 5:30 to 6:30 . Movie screening 7 p.m. with Doug Ruffin.

Bring a chair!

Renee Likong

United States Marines Basic Training: Parris Island 2531 Communications Specialist Duty Stations: 29 Palms Camp Pendleton Camp Hansen, Okinawa Japan Futernma Air Force Base, Okinawa Japan

TUES. SEPT. 19 Free Line Dance Class, Dorothy Collier Community Center, 118 E. Utica, BEGINNER 11a.m.12p.m.; ADVANCED 12-1 p.m. (716)882-0602.

Michigan Street Heritage Corridor Farmers Market 3-6 p.m., 136 Broadway.

“Don’t think there are no crocodiles just because the water is calm.” -Afrikan Proverb

MON. SEPT. 25

LAST PUBLIC MEETING to give your opinion on 5/14 MASSACRE MEMORIAL Meeting Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Avenue from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Also: if you can’t attend the meeting go to the. 5/14 Memorial Survey which can be found at https://wnysurveys.com/514memorial

TUES. SEPT.26 Free Line Dance Class, Dorothy Collier Community Center,

History of Aircraft of the Tuskegee Airmen The African American Veterans Monument Inc.’s Board of Directors is hosting a ground breaking experience in collaboration with the Buffalo Board of Education. The CAF Rise Above Squadrons, a three-fold traveling educational outreach program that brings the history and legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen and Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs) to life nationwide, has landed in Western New York.

The first outreach featured two original historical short films that told powerful stories of Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs) .

The second phase, started September 12 and runs through September 23 and features the exhibit and magnificently restored WWII-era P-51C Mustang, the iconic aircraft of the Tuskegeee Airmen, will be at Signature Flight Support, 50 N. Airport Drive, Cheektowaga NY. .

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Challenger Community News •September 14, 2023