Challenger Community News September 27, 2017

SERVING BUFFALO, ROCHESTER, NIAGARA FALLS AND SURROUNDING AREAS

September 27, 2017 | FREE

Despite attempts to hijack the truth and twist the issue, The NFL players peaceful protest is NOT done as an assault against the United States military, the national anthem or the flag but as a dissent against police brutality and racial injustice Page 12

BUSINESS

Ashtae Hair Care Owners to Address THE PITCH Page 10

HONORS

Black Achievers Special Awardees Page 3

INSIDE ROCHESTER Interview: Deputy Mayor Alexander Page 2

Buffalo Police Who Cross The Line Page 3

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

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INSIDE ROCHESTER

An Interview With Rochester’s Deputy Mayor Dr. Cedric L. Alexander

By George Radney For those who might have missed it, Dr. Cedric L. Alexander has returned to Rochester, NY in the position of Deputy Mayor.

I had the opportunity to interview him recently about why he returned to the area and his new role in Mayor Lovely Warren’s administration.

Dr. Alexander, who holds a doctorate in clinical Psychology, is a CNN law enforcement analyst and former director of public safety at the DeKalb County Police Department in Georgia. He is a former national president of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives and served as Rochester’s police Chief and Deputy Chief from 2002 to 2005 under the administration of former Mayor William A. Johnson, Jr. Dr. “I originally came to Rochester to attend University of Rochester, earned my degree, worked on the faculty before being recruited for the Police Chief position” he stated. “I truly love this community and Mayor Lovely Warren called me up one day and asked if I was interested in becoming Deputy Mayor.

We talked about it for some time and I always loved the city and she (Mayor Warren) is such a dedicated person to the community .It’s not about her but truly about the community. We are going to do some great things and continue to serve this community well. My drive for coming back to Rochester is to be a part of something dynamic in the continued growth and overall welfare of the City. We are focusing on revitalization and bringing more jobs to the area. There is great opportunity here!”

The Deputy Mayor has direct oversight of the majority of City Departments including Environmental Services, Neighborhood and Business Development, Information Technology, Human Resources, Emergency Communications, Finance, Fire, and Law. In his position he also oversees the office of Management & Budget and the Parking and Municipal Code Violations Bureau.

“I’m currently working on a strategic plan on what our City will look like in 2025. This will be our road map … an outline for ourselves to stay on track in reaching the goals and visions for City of Rochester.” We have a water front that runs through downtown, communities in and around downtown that are historic, excellent neighborhoods, and everyone will be able to participate in the future growth of our City. We want to ensure no neighborhood is left behind. I will be working closely with our Police Department to ensure safety at all of our festivals that are put on during the spring and summer seasons. We have people coming from all over the region, country, and world. You will be seeing a different level of security for our various festivals next year. We must have our patrons feeling safe during festivals.. It’s about public safety and keeping everyone safe while attending an event in Rochester.”

Where does he see himself down the road? “ I don’t know where my next assignment will be. Only God knows and will direct me. No, I do not want to be Mayor, we have a very talented Mayor who will be in charge for quite sometime.

Dr. Cedric L. Alexander is a modern day renaissance man, who keeps himself busy outside of work with various projects like his book which he released in 2016, “The New Guardians: Policing in America’s Communities for the Twenty-First Century.” It’s a very engaging book that follows his career path along with taking a look at high profile cases and wondering if community policing could have made a difference in the outcome of each case. Dr. Alexander, who I grew up in the seventies in Buffalo, recalled how he participated along with most kids in his eastside neighborhood in PAL (Police Athletic League) activities.

“Police officers coached us in a wide variety of sports and participated in community activities.

You had the opportunity to interact with officers on a regular basis where they knew your name and you knew them as well. “ The book is a very .good read and gives us food for thought on how we all can assist in making our communities a better place to live.

Dr. Alexander also just recently made his acting debut in the local production of “Collard Green Curves,” the true life story of Nurse Theresa Bowick.

Dr. Cedric L. Alexander is truly a man on the move who is dedicated, and looking forward to making Rochester, NY a better place to live.

Rochester Board of Education to Honor Ernest Flagler as “Hometown Hero”

Ernest Flagler

On September 28 at 6:30 p.m. the Rochester Board of Education will honor Ernest Flagler for his dedicated service to our community by presenting him with the “Hometown Heroes” Award. The Award is given to alumni of the Rochester City School District in recognition of their outstanding accomplishments.

Mr. Flagler was one of the first African Americans to graduate from the Firefighter Trainee program at East High School, then joining the Rochester City Fire Department and rising through the ranks to become fire marshal. He has served with the Department for over 20 years. He has also served in a multitude of capacities: legislator, founder of Rochester Parents United, former President of the 14621 Community Association, Boy Scout Troop leader, and church elder.

The Award Ceremony and Business Meeting are open to the public.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •September 27, 2017

AROUND TOWN! #ROCRelief Benefit to Support Puerto Rico, Other Caribbean Islands – The City of Rochester is working in collaboration with the Red Cross, the Rochester City School District, Pathstone, New York State Assemblyman David Gantt, the Rochester Police Department and the Rochester Fire Department to host the #ROCRelief event to benefit Puerto Rico and other Caribbean Islands devastated by recent natural disasters. The benefit will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, October 7 at Parcel 5 (corner of East Main Street and Cortland Street).

“We have a large Puerto Rican and Caribbean community in Rochester, and the pain of these disasters is being felt close to home,” Mayor Lovely A. Warren said. “My thoughts and prayers go out to our friends and neighbors impacted by this devastation, and I am happy to support this opportunity to provide relief.”

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •September 27, 2017

AREA BRIEFS Armed Security Guards at Common Council Meetings?

A Community Toast to Betty Jean Grant!

A community toast to honor Legislator and community activist Betty Jean Grant will be held Thursday, September 28 from 5-9 p.m. at the Rafi Green Community Center, 1423 Fillmore Avenue. This will be an evening for the community to show its love and appreciation for Sister Grant! there will be an open mic, food, music, and much much more

Back to Basics Job and Information Session Set The Back to Basics Re-Entry Program along with the United Coalition of Churches and Brotherhood (U.C.C.B.) will be holding a job and information session on Thursday September 28 from 2- 4 p.m. at 1370 William Street. There will be representatives from various construction companies as well as the Fillmore Housing Rehab corporation and the N.F.T.A. Vendors from various health care providers will also be there to sign those up without any health insurance. The community is invited to come out and listen and possibly get interviewed for positions on the spot. Any questions, please call Pastor Charles H.Walker II at 8541086. Striving to help make our city great!

As Above, So Below….

The weather has heated up considerably recently, with this past Sunday marking the warmest day of 2017 with the temperature reaching 90 degrees just two days after autumn!

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The Common council last week renewed their contract for a second year at the cost of $660,000 with a private security company to provided uniformed armed guards at all council meetings, including committee meetings and regular business meetings.

The guards will also be able to make arrests and detain a person for carrying narcotics other than marijuana. Council President Darius G. Pridgen told reportrs that the added armed guard measure is for public safety.

Fillmore District Council Member David Franzcyk voted against it. …Are Council meetings that dangerous?

Puerto Rico Hurricane Maria Relief Fund Announced Mayor Byron W. Brown, in partnership with Western New York Latino Leaders, have come together to assist the victims of Hurricane Maria, and establish The Puerto Rico Hurricane Maria Relief Fund. To support efforts, resources and involvement are needed from the Buffalo area community.

Multiple donation centers have been set up to collect items for emergency relief now thru Friday, October 6. Locations include Buffalo City Hall, All County Buildings, ECC, as well as the Belle Center at 104 Maryland St. (8a.m.-6p.m.) and St. Anthony’s Church at 306 Ingham Ave. Lackawanna (10a.m.-12p.m. and 2-4p.m.). Once these desperately needed items have been collected, we will ship them directly to a collection center located in Puerto Rico.

A list of much-needed supplies is available at drop-off locations and requested items can be found by going to: www.city-buffalo.com A bank account, managed through the Belle Center, has been established at M& T Bank. Checks may be made payable to the Puerto Rico Hurricane Maria Relief Fund. A Go-Fund-Me account has also been set up.

You can find the link on the local FB Page: Puerto Rican Hurricane Maria Relief Fund.

Four to Receive Special Awards at 45th Annual Black Achievers Event

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n Saturday October 7, Black Achievers Inc., will honor 32 outstanding individuals when it hosts the 35th Annual Black Achievers Awards Banquet. This week the organization released the names of four others to be honored at the event with special awards. They include: • Rev. Mark E. Blue, President of the Buffalo Branch NAACP, the Community Service Award •Rhonda A. Ricks, Ph.D., President and CEO of R+A+R Development, Inc.,

Nekia Kemp

Pastor Blue

the Entrepreneur of the Year Award •Nekia Kemp, Executive Director of the Police Athletic League of Buffalo, the Mayor’s Youth Award •Rona Drinkard, a Senior IT Project Manager with Leidos, The Homecoming Award

Rona Drinkard

Rhonda A. Ricks

The 45th Annual Black Achievers Awards Banquet will be held at the Adams Mark Hotel, 120 Church Street. For more information on the gala or to purchase tickets all 884-1490, or visit the Black Achievers, Inc. website at www.buffaloblackachievers.com

Buffalo police who cross the line Courts records show Strike Force, Housing Unit conduct illegal searches, sometimes submit dubious testimony By Daniela Porat, Investigative Post Mayor Byron Brown established the Strike Force and Housing units to address the scourge of gangs, drugs and guns in Buffalo. While few argue with the mission of these police units, the way they go about their job is raising alarm, with some defense attorneys characterizing Strike Force and Housing Unit officers as “vigilantes” with a “cowboy mentality.”

“I think they have a complete disregard for the Constitution of the United States, and most importantly, the Fourth Amendment,” said Michael Stachowski, a Buffalo defense attorney. “They just seem to roust kids in the street, chase people, and hope they find contraband.”

Investigative Post reviewed ten criminal court cases involving Strike Force and the Housing Unit in which judges tossed out evidence seized by officers on the grounds police had no reasonable justification to conduct the searches. In two of those instances, judges raised questions about the testimony of officers because of conflicting video evidence or its sheer implausibility.

While these cases represent only a fraction of arrests made by these units, defense attorneys said these incidents illustrate a wider pattern of misconduct by a group of Strike Force and Housing Unit officers.

“I call it stalk and frisk,” said James Auricchio, a former state and federal prosecutor and the head of the criminal division of the Assigned Counsel, which provides legal representation to indigent defendants in Erie County.

Interviews with seven defense attorneys and a review of court documents, including hearing transcripts, arrest records and judicial decisions, reveal numerous examples of unconstitutional tactics and other misconduct.

For example, Strike Force officers threatened a mother with a visit from Child Protective Services if she didn’t consent to a warrantless search of her house.

In another incident, they burst into a home without justification and put people in chokeholds.

And in a separate episode, officers punched someone in the head who was already in handcuffs and subdued by pepper spray.

“They are paid to supposedly get guns and drugs off the street and Shaketa Redden, their way of doing that is to just hop out on every Black or brown person they see,” said Shaketa Redden, co-founder of Just Resisting, a racial and criminal justice group that promotes the empowerment of people of color.

Natasha Soto, the other co-founder, said these officers patrol “assuming everyone’s guilty and waiting to be proven right.”

It’s not just lawyers and activists crying foul. Judges in the criminal cases reviewed have criticized the way in which these officers have conducted stops and searches, eventually suppressing the gun or drugs found on the defendant.

In one decision, a State Supreme Court judge wrote, “the officer’s conduct was not justified from its inception.” In another case, an Erie County court judge described an officer’s testimony as “inventive.”

Police Commissioner Daniel Derenda denied a request from Investigative Post to speak with individual officers or a department representative to discuss specific incidents. Lieutenant Jeffrey Rinaldo, a police spokesperson, said the department is not aware of a pattern of unconstitutional searches or problematic testimony involving members of either unit.

“We would never sacrifice constitutionality for a greater mission of getting guns, or violent offenders off the street,” he said. “It does no good to make arrests that are not going to hold up in court.”

But that’s not the kind of behavior some East Side residents say they see when they interact Continued Page 11

The African Midday •Malian sailors got to America in 1311 AD, 181 years before Columbus. An Egyptian scholar, Ibn Fadl Al-Umari, published on this sometime around 1342. In the tenth chapter of his book, there is an account of two large maritime voyages ordered by the predecessor of Mansa Musa, a king who inherited the Malian throne in 1312. This mariner king is not named by Al-Umari, but modern writers identify him as Mansa Abubakari II. • On a pilgrimage to Mecca in 1324 AD, a Malian ruler, Mansa Musa, brought so much money with him that his visit resulted in the collapse of gold prices in Egypt and Arabia. It took twelve years for the economies of the region to normalise.

• West African gold mining took place on a vast scale.

One modern writer said that: “It is estimated that the total amount of gold mined in West Africa up to 1500 was 3,500 tons, worth more than $30 billion in today’s market.”

•The old Malian capital of Niani had a 14th century building called the Hall of Audience. It was an surmounted by a dome, adorned with arabesques of striking colours. The windows of an upper floor were plated with wood and framed in silver; those of a lower floor were plated with wood, framed in gold.

• Mali in the 14th century was highly urbanized. Sergio Domian, an Italian art and architecture scholar, wrote the following about this period: “Thus was laid the foundation of an urban civilization.

At the height of its power, Mali had at least 400 cities."

•The Malian city of Timbuktu had a 14th century population of 115,000 - 5 times larger than mediaeval London. Mansa Musa, built the Djinguerebere Mosque in the fourteenth century. There was the University Mosque in which 25,000 students studied and the Oratory of Sidi Yayia. London, by contrast, had a total 14th century population of 20,000 people.

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NATIONAL + WORLD + LOCAL

When Will the American Caribbean Become Enough of a Priority for U.S. Government and Media?

By Frederick Reese

The 2017 Atlantic hurricane season, which is still in progress, may be the most intense season to date. The season has already seen two record-breaking hurricanes and a level of destruction the Caribbean has not seen since 2005.

“This hurricane stayed in the country for a very, very long time and (was) just unrelenting,” Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit

told CNN about Hurricane Maria, which packed wind speeds of 160 miles per hour when it touched ground on the island nation on Sept. 18.

Skerrit described his nation, where at least 15 lives were lost, as being devastated by the storm. “I don’t think there were very many roofs which would survive the hurricane.”

In Puerto Rico, where Maria made landfall as Category

4 hurricane on Sept. 20, the long-term loss of electricity to the entire territory’s populace and the potential collapse of the nation’s critical infrastructure, such as the fissuring of the Guajataca Dam, have left millions in direct danger or severely compromised. The U.S. Virgin Islands is currently coping with a collapse of its communication network, as major flooding and downed utility lines plague the islands. The American Caribbean territories are unlikely to recover from these disasters soon. Both territories faced financial crises before the storms. Post-storm aid has been promised by Washington but has been slow to arrive.

Frances Colon, founder of the non-profit group Cenadores, speaking to NBCNews, argues that the scale of the federal response in Puerto Rico has not been on the scale of the devastation. “ation,” Colon said. “We need boots on the ground from the federal government.

We need FEMA, National Guard, a federal response at [Hurricane] Katrina scale.”

For many in the American Caribbean — particularly, in light of collapsed communications — the coverage in the United States of the storms’ impact in Florida and Texas seemed to take precedence over island coverage.

A n s w e r i n g y o u r q u e s t i o n s a b o u t c r e m a t i o n a n d b u r i a l . . .

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For example, if a couple chooses side-by-side casketed burial in 2 graves, there’s room for them and up 6 other members of their family. This can represent a significant cost savings for the family. But more importantly, it can make it possible for you and your dearest loved ones to remain together forever.

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •September 27, 2017

Senate Republican Leaders Decide Not to Hold Vote on Obamacare Repeal Bill

WASHINGTON— Facing assured defeat, Republican leaders decided Tuesday not to even hold a vote on the GOP’s latest attempt to repeal the Obama health care law, surrendering on their lastgasp effort to deliver on the party’s banner campaign promise.

Leaving a bunch of Republican senators who’d gathered to discuss their next steps on the issue, Sen. Pat Roberts, R-Kan., said Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., and other leaders decided that “the votes are not there, not to have the vote.” Another lawmaker leaving the gathering, Sen. Jeff Flake, R-Ariz., shook his head and said, “No,” when asked if a roll call would occur.

The decision marked the latest defeat on the issue for President Donald Trump and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky. In July, the Republican-controlled Senate rejected three similar GOP measures, a failure that infuriated conservatives and prompted Trump to spend much of his summer tweeting criticism at McConnell for falling short.

One of the measure’s sponsors, Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., said the GOP fight to erase President Barack Obama’s 2010 health care overhaul would continue.

“We’re going to get there,” he said. “We’re going to fulfill our promise.”

Rejection became all but inevitable on Monday after Maine GOP Sen. Susan Collins announced she opposed the legislation. She joined Republican Sens. John McCain of Arizona, Rand Paul of Kentucky and Texas’ Ted Cruz who’d already said they opposed the measure. Cruz aides said he was seeking changes that would let him vote yes.

Because of their narrow majority and unified Democratic opposition, Republicans can lose just two GOP votes and still push the legislation through the Senate. A vote or a decision by McConnell, R-Ky., to forego a roll call was needed this week because procedural protections against a bill-killing filibuster by Democrats expire Sunday.

In choosing whether to hold the roll call, McConnell had to pick between some Republicans arguing that lawmakers can’t be seen as abandoning a pledge that Trump and countless GOP have run on, and others challenging the value of shining a fresh spotlight on their inability to pass the bill.

HEALTH MATTERS

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •September 27, 2017

Managing Type II Diabetes Take care of your body, it’s the only place you have to live in” Jim Rohn

T

ype 2 diabetes is a chronic disease all too familiar in our communities and families. Erie county has a higher incidence of diabetes than NYS and the United States. It is also the 5th leading cause of death in Erie county. African Americans in Erie county have double the hospital admission rates than their white counterparts for Type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is an insidious disease that can lead to loss of vision, kidney disease, nerve damage and is a precursor to heart disease and stroke. We must begin to understand this disease and take the necessary steps to mitigate its negative effects and begin the journey to reverse it.

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

When someone has Type 2 diabetes, their body becomes resistant to insulin’s effects.

This causes glucose (sugar) to end up in the blood stream and this can overwhelm the kidneys.

How Does Insulin Work?

Our bodies break down all the food we eat into glucose (sugar). Glucose is the fuel all our cells need to function.

Glucose needs insulin to get from the bloodstream into the cells. Every time you eat a meal, the pancreas releases insulin to transport glucose into our cells. But when someone is a Type 2 diabetic, the cells are resistant to insulin and the glucose is not transported to the cells and instead builds up in the bloodstream. This is one reason why diabetics may be constantly hungry.

The fuel (glucose) is not getting into cells and the body doesn’t know that energy has been provided.

Over time, this extra glucose (sugar) can damage the blood vessels throughout the body, causing blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks and stroke. Blood sugar can also damage the nerves, which is known as neuropathy. Diabetics can also suffer from poor circulation which can lead to injuries that don’t heal properly and could result in amputations.

What Causes Insulin to Malfunction?

The accumulation of fat inside the cells of muscles and liver interferes with the action of insulin. The larger the fat cells become, the more resistant they may be to insulin.

Where Does the Fat Come From?

The fat inside muscles comes from our own fat stores and the fat we eat. Obesity is considered the number one risk factor for Type 2 diabetes, especially when the excess fat is carried around the abdomen.

What can I Do? 1.Healthful Mindset As a practicing holistic nutritionist, it is the belief that there is no separation between mind, body and spirt and one is not affected without impacting the others. All action is preceded by thought. It has been said that “we become what we think about”. The first step is to analyze our thought patterns concerning Type 2 diabetes.

Do we have the mindset that because our family members suffered with diabetes, so must we? Have we mentally resigned ourselves to taking pills, insulin shots, or dealing with tingling and numbness the remainder of our lives?

Or are we prepared to believe that, “given the right conditions the body will heal itself”. Do our mindsets reflect

the belief that our bodies are temples and should be valued and respected by nourishing it with good food, drink and exercise. As it was written, “as a man thinketh, so is he”.

2.Exercise Exercise is a great way to better manage Type 2 diabetes. Physical activity helps insulin get glucose into your cells! You don’t have to go out and run a marathon, but a 20-30-minute daily walk can go a long way. Remember, “success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out”.

3.Weight Loss Obesity is the number one risk factor for Type 2 diabetes.

Losing weight will release the excess fat stored around the liver and in cells and help insulin work better to help normalize blood glucose levels.

4.Eat a healthful diet The standard American diet which is the meat-sweet diet is wreaking havoc on our bodies. Gradually switching to a plant based diet that is high in fiber and low in fat will aid the pancreas, liver and kidneys in performing its functions more efficiently. Eating healthful also means eating 5-6 small meals every 2-3 hours. Regularly scheduled, balanced

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Kathleen

RICHARDSON

meals will provide a constant, steady, moderate flow of glucose to the bloodstream—so the body’s insulin response can keep up with the need to process the glucose. This will also prevent overeating at any one meal.

Living with Type 2 diabetes can be a struggle and deciding to embrace and implement these lifestyle changes can be an even greater struggle. But there is one thing to remember, “You cannot change your destination overnight, but you can change your direction overnight”. Taking it one day and one meal at a time is all it takes.

Do’s •Eat a variety of fruit •Eat more fresh and frozen fruit and less canned fruit and fruit juices •Eat more dark green veggies like broccoli, spinach and other dark leafy greens •Eat more orange vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes

•Eat more dry beans and peas like black beans and red beans •Eat a variety of whole Grains like wheat, rye, barley, quinoa, and brown rice •Drink water •Homemade snacks that satisfy the sweet tooth Don’ts •White rice •White bread •Eat fried and fast foods often •Frozen meals (high in sodium) •Eat processed meats often (hot dogs, bacon, sausage,

lunch meat) •Packaged cakes, cookies, pies, candy •Pop •Diet pop Kathleen Richardson is a certified Holistic Nutritionist and certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant. She is owner of Beauty In A Barbell Nutrition, a Holistic Health centered company dedicated to the physical, mental and spiritual empowerment of the African American community through nutrition and exercise .

“Knowing when to stop, you can avoid any danger.” -Tao Te Ching

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FAITH & FAMILY

Humboldt Parkway Baptist Church Annual Family Day The Humboldt Parkway Baptist Church will host its 16th Annual Family Day beginning Saturday, September 30 with a Fish and Grits Prayer Breakfast at 9:00 a.m. Please join us to be fed both spiritually and physically!

On Sunday, October 8th at the 11 a.m. Family Day Worship service our own Reverend Robert Jackson from the Atlanta, GA area will bless us with the preached Word.

The Family Day celebration will come to a close on Sunday at 4 p.m. with a gala banquet at the New Golden Nugget located at 2046 Fillmore Avenue.

Please call the Humboldt Parkway Baptist Church 896-4363 for more information.

Reverend John T. Hilliard is the Pastor of the Humboldt Parkway Baptist Church located at 790 Humboldt Parkway at Woodlawn.

Deacon and Mrs. Joe Henderson are the 16thAnnual Family Day Co-Chairpersons.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •September 27, 2017

Full Gospel District Appreciation Dinner Set The 2nd Annual Full Gospel District Appreciation Dinner will be held Friday, September 29 at 7 p.m. at the Adams Mark Hotel. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased by calling Minister Anita Sawyer at (716)541-0863.

Men’s Symposium Breakfast: “You Don’t Know My Story – Through The Eyes of A Man” The Men’s Symposium Breakfast will be held Saturday, October 7th from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at Elim Christian Fellowship, 70 Chalmers Avenue. The theme is “You don’t Know My Story – Through the Eyes of A Man” (YDKMS) All proceeds will benefit the Girls and Boys Mentoring Programs.

According to organizers this year’s Men’s Symposium breakfast will be amazing. Guest speakers include Joseph Joeycakes Young, Donell Gibson Jr., Councilman Rasheed NC Wyatt, Dante Bates Griggs, Pastor Andre Clark and Vandell Marshall.

The Master of Ceremony will be Tim Hogues. There will also be a comedy skit by Julian Russell.

For tickets call Antonio Evans at (716) 289-5454.

24 HOURS OF PRAYER! Join Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 179 E. Ferry Street for 24 Hours of Prayer Thursday, September 28 at 12 noon thru Friday September 29 at 12 noon. For more information call 886-1362. Rev. C.M. Jenkins II is Pastor.

Full Gospel District Appreciation Dinner Set The 2nd Annual Full Gospel District Appreciation Dinner will be held Friday, September 29 at 7 p.m. at the Adams Mark Hotel. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased by calling Minister Anita Sawyer at (716)541-0863.

Women’s Day Held at Trinity Baptist Trinity Baptist Church observed their Annual Women’s Day last Sunday, The guest speaker will was Co-Pastor/Evangelist Celestine Booze of the Potter’s House Christian Community Church of Niagara Falls, N.Y. The theme of the observance was “Women of God Growing in the Grace of God” (II Corinthians 13:14) Rev. Karen Anderson Hardaway was chairperson. Sis. Vivian Payne co-chairperson. Rev. Dr. Jimmie Hardaway Jr. is Pastor.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •September 27, 2017

7 Potters House COGIC Celebrates 100th Church Anniversary: 1917 – 2017!

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The Potter’s House COGIC, Rev. Daniel J. Lewis, Pastor, celebrated its 100th Church Anniversary at a gala banquet September 16 at the Creekside Banquet Facility on Union Road.

The guest speaker was Elder Eric Lewis Williams, Ph.D., Curator of Religion at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington D.C. Congratulations Pastor Lewis and the congregation of Potter’ House COGIC! Photos By Ronnie Tillman Of Made In Your Image Photos

8 Cardi B. Is Officially Making "Money Moves" With Her Smash-Hit "

Cardi B just made history and shut down any talk that she’s just a blip on the rap radar. And she dethroned Taylor Swift in the process. The 24-year-old Bronx MC has become the first female rapper since 1998 to land a single at no. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart unassisted.

The industry record chart reported the “Love and Hip Hop” star’s debut song, “Bodak Yellow (Money Moves)” hit the top spot making it the first time any solo female MC has done so since Lauryn Hill’s “Doo Wop (That

Entertainment

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •September 27, 2017

Jordan Sparks, Stevie Wonder Show Support for NFL Players Protest Movement Jordin Sparks Delivers Powerful, Silent Protest While Loudly Singing the National Anthem The Root - Before Monday Night’s Football Game Monday night’s meeting between the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys and Arizona Cardinals began with both teams taking a knee prior to the singing of the national anthem. As the anthem began, both teams stood, arms linked in unity as Jordin Sparks began to sing.

SB Nation reports that Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and team coach Jason both joined their team in kneeling before the anthem, drawing boos from the crowd in Arizona.

Former American Idol star Jordin Sparks drew the most attention, however, with her silent protest in the form of a biblical scripture, Proverbs 31:8-9, written on her arm and displayed visibly for all the cameras to sing as she sang.

The scripture says, “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”

A powerful message indeed, given the current political climate in this country, and the statements made over the past weekend

by Donald Trump, who seems to think people should be fired for exercising their constitutional rights. Her silent action garnered plenty of praise across Twitter Legendary musician Stevie Wonder took both knees at a New York music festival, seemingly showing solidarity with NFL players criticized by President Donald Trump hours earlier.

"Tonight, I'm taking a knee for America; but not just one knee, I'm taking both knees," he said on stage Saturday before his performance at the Global Citizens Festival."Both knees in prayer for our planet, our future, our leaders of the world and our globe. Amen ..." During the event, Wonder also spoke about interrupting hate, bigotry and condemning sexism.

"Bodak Yellow" serves as Cardi's debut single under Atlantic Records and has steadily climbed the charts since it's June release. Last month, in a sit down with the New York Times the femcee's team predicted a No. 1 victory for the bass-heavy track. As Joanna Nikas reported, after Cardi asked her publicist how they would celebrate "if" the song hit the top of the charts, Cardi was corrected. "Don't say 'if," publicist Patientce Fostersaid.

"When."

The song now marks the first solo woman-fronted rap single to ascend to the top of the charts since Lauryn Hill's 1998 effort "(Doo Wop) That Thing." Ahead of Monday's Hot 100 reveal, J. Cole took to Twitter to congratulate Cardi on her success and offer a word of advice. "Don't put all that pressure on your album," he advised. "You already won."

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BUFFALO/ B&W 5”W X 5.5”H

Groups (10+): 716 -829-1183 91913 / 2CX4 / BUFFALO CHALLANGER RUN DATE: SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16

ON STAGE *ON STAGE AT THE HELIUM COMEDY CLUB, 30 Mississippi St. 853-1211 Oct. 5-8 John Witherspoon

Sept 27th – 30th and Oct 4th – 7th Buffalo State's Theater Department presents: Blood at the Root, 8pm at Buffalo States Flexible Theatre, Savage Theater and Communication Bldg.

1300 Elmwood Ticket info call 873-3505

9

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •September 27, 2017

ON STAGE *AN EVENING WITH RUSSELL THOMPKINS JR. STYLISTICS Saturday October 7 @ 730pmOriginal Voice on all these #1 Hits, Betcha By Golly Wow, You Are Everything, You Make Me Feel Brand New, Rock N' Roll Baby, Break Up To Make Up, Stop Look Listen, Stone in Love With You, You're A Big Girl Now, plus special guests from MotownThe Shades of Blue Oh How Happy; Historic Riviera Theatre67 Webster St..North Tonawanda, NY. 692-2413 for tickets. www.RivieraTheatre.org *PATTI LABELLE, Friday, October 20, 2017 at 8:00 PM Seneca Niagara Events Center. Tickets available at Seneca Niagara or online at ticketmaster.com, at any Ticketmaster location or order by phone by calling 1-800-7453000. *JANET JACKSON, Sat. Nov. 4 @ 8 p.m., KeyBank Center. Tickets VividSeats.

Party Over Here

*BACK IN THE DAY OLD SCHOOL JAM, Saturday Sept. 30, Arthur’s Pub, 596 Geneses, 8 p.m. – 12 Midnight

OPEN MIC in BLACK &WHITE

By Goodne$$

W

elcome back Kings & Queens Ladies & Gentlemen ... Coming up next to the page {stage} put your hands together (clap) for this brilliant composer, and talented songbird introducing my featured guest Phoenix.

Born Shauntae Rose, now performing un. der the stage name "Phoenix" ... once well received as Nzinga Madu.

GOODNE$$ A native of Buffalo, New York currently residing in PA, her inspirations evolves from such national/international recording artists as India Arie, Jill Scott, Me'Shell Ndeg'eochello, Amel Larrieux, Erykah Badu, Goapele and Anita Baker as her close associates would proclaim.

All of the above mentioned are truly iconic women in the industry, but Phoenix has an intriguing sound of her own with a distinctive voice to complement her lyrics.

Breaking freshly onto the scene with her hit single "Golden" written Phoenix to a very popular instrumental originating from Beethoven singing Darude- Sandstrom- Indie.

Golden is track #5 off of her EP entitled "Tunnel To Freedom" Nzinga Madu. This ballad is full of soul meaning it's extremely soulful, demonstrating how anointed her vocals are. Each and every one of her songs are beautifully sung - written and arranged.

Phoenix is working on her 1st album, and she's definitely excited about the new project. Since moving to Pennsylvania she has performed at Bloomfield Tavern, Club Cafe',and the River Casino located in Pittsburgh, She's also performed in Rochester, New York.

I'm So happy to announce that this will be her 1st ever appearance on stage here in her hometown, Saturday - September 30th, 2017' for the 13th Installment of My "Citywide Youth Open Mic" at The Rafi Greene CAO Center ... 1423 Fillmore Ave. from 1 - 6pm ...

These event are always Free & Open to The Public, so I invite you all to come out and experience this gifted songstress for yourself.

Last but not least her creativity doesn't stop at Singer/songwriter - performer, she has a handcrafted jewelry collection calledAddison Ivory Miller ...

You can find her on these social media platforms, 1nzinga. bandcamp.com/ ... @1shauntae on instagram for bookings and music inquiries ...

I'd like to sincerely Thank You in advance Sistah Queen for traveling back this way to physically be here and I thank you for being my showcased artist in the spotlight.

If you or someone you know would like to be a feature please submit a photo, short bio, contact information and an original poem/song, links for audio or visual to: shawndrell03@gmail. com ... subject put; Open Mic in Black and White.

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF JAZZ with the Colored Musicians Club Tues. Oct. 3, 7pm Stefan Sanders, conductor

The George Scott Big Band joins the BPO to celebrate the legends that performed at Buffalo’s Colored Musicians Club over its 100-year history. This musical tribute traces the astounding story of the iconic venue’s contribution to black history, music history, and Buffalo history.

Attend the post-concert party for more great George Scott Big Band music! Bring this ad to the Box Office or use code KTS10 to save $10 on your ticket.

(716) 885 5000 bpo.org M172715

10

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •September 27, 2017

Ashtae Hair Care Products Owners Michael and Ramona Woods to Address The PITCH Business THE PITCH is a collaborative M/WBE business plan competition designed to elevate the profile of minority and women business owners in the City of Buffalo.

Join us and the WNY business community at the Buffalo Museum of Science, 1020 Humboldt Parkway as four local entrepreneurs present their business plans on Thursday Sep. 28 for a slice of $50,000 in prizes! There are

two categories, each with a $15,000 grand prize and $5,000 runner-up prize, as well as the Five Star Bank People’s Choice Minority and Women Small Business Award of $10,000.

The event is free and open to the public, but you must RSVP to attend. Networking and light food will be provided before and after the event.

Doors open at 5pm and the event starts at 6pm.

MAYOR BROWN KICKS OFF MINORITY-AND-WOMENOWNED BUSINESSES (MBE/WBE) WEEK IN BUFFALO Mayor Byron W. Brown recently kicked off and highlighted a week of activity focused on Minority-and- Women-owned businesses (MBE/WBE) in Buffalo by issuing a proclamation, declaring September 25-29, 2017 as MBE/WBE Week in the City of Buffalo, in support of the great value Minority-and-Womenowned businesses have to the community.

Event Highlights include: •Wednesday, September 27th – How to Respond to a ‘Request for Proposals’ - presented by ECMC, 462 Grider Street. Smith Auditorium. 6-8 pm •Thursday, September 28th – The PITCH: A collaborative MWBE Business Plan Competition – 5-9 pm - Buffalo Museum of Science •Friday, September 29th – Big Opportunities for Small Business

by Small Business Development Corp. (SBDC) @ SUNY Buffalo State. Burchfield Penney Art Center, 8 am to 2 pm Additionally, Mayor Brown highlighted the accomplishments of the City's MBE/WBE program since 2006 including improving conditions for minority and women owned business enterprises (MBE/WBE) and minorities and female workers by bolstering equity in City of Buffalo contracting and hiring opportunities as well as the formation of the City of Buffalo Contract Compliance Committee.

Buffalo public schools OPEN HOUSE & ADMISSION TESTING schedule

OPEN HOUSES

Michael and Ramona Woods

Experience an Entertaining Program: • Musical opening by performing artist Henri L. Muhammad, concert violinist, conductor, composer/arranger, and studio recording artist •4 Business Pitches- Vote for the $10,000 Five Star Bank People's Choice Minority and Women Small Business Award.

•A Business Talk by Michael and Ramona Woods, owners of Ashtae Products, a successful beauty industry business featured on the CNBC TV show,The Profit.

•Enjoy the power of networking following the program.

End the evening networking and enjoying delicious hors d'oeuvres, drinks and musical entertainment.

NO COST to attend. Please RSVP and print tickets at www.43North.org.

Questions? Contact Lee Locklear at lee@43north.org AshtaeMichael & Ramona Woods authors of “Living In A Wealthy Place,” are the President/CEO and Chief Financial officer respectively of Ashtae™ Products Inc, a Greensboro, NC based company they co-founded in 1994. Ashtae Products is a manufacturer and distributor of multi-cultural hair care products. Ashtae products are sold exclusively to salons, beauty schools and spa’s all across the United States, Canada and the Caribbean Islands. The Woods have grown Ashtae Products from ZERO sales to a multi-million dollar corporation.

They began their quest by mortgaging their home and sacrificing personal items to raise the necessary cash. The company was named after their two daughters, Ashley and Taylore. Ashtae means: The Power of Positive Thought which they believed was appropriate considering the odds of the venture they set out to build. Difficult as it was in the early years, Michael and Ramona never lost their dream.

September 30 9 a.m. – Noon October 2 3 p.m.

October 3 5 p.m.

October 4 4 p.m.

October 4 6 p.m.

October 11 4 p.m.

October 11 5 p.m.

October 12 9 a.m.

October 12 9 a.m.

October 12 4 p.m.

October 16 4 p.m.

October 17 4 p.m.

October 17 5 p.m.

October 17 5 p.m.

October 18 9 a.m.

October 18 4 p.m.

October 19 6 p.m.

October 23 & 25 9 a.m.

October 25 5 p.m.

October 26 5 p.m.

October 26 6 p.m.

November 2 6 p.m.

November 4 9 a.m.

November 18 9 a.m.

ANNUAL HIGH SCHOOL SHOWCASE (gr. 7 & 8) International Preparatory School Frederick Law Olmsted School #156 @203 Lewis J. Bennett H.S. Innovative Technology Buffalo Academy for Visual & Performing Arts Research Lab H.S. for Bioinformatics & Life Sciences Burgard High School Leonardo da Vinci High School Research Lab H.S. for Bioinformatics & Life Sciences South Park High School Early Childhood Center #17 (gr. PK-4) Emerson School of Hospitality East Community High School Pathways Academy Frederick Law Olmsted School #64* (gr. PK-4) Emerson School of Hospitality Annex @28 Hutchinson-Central Technical High School Middle Early College High School Math Science Technology School Math Science Technology School @39 (gr. 5-8) Riverside Academy McKinley High School Lafayette International High School City Honors School at Fosdick Masten Park

2885 Main St. 110 14th St. 319 Suffolk St. 2885 Main St. 450 Masten Ave. 2885 Main St. 400 Kensington Ave. 320 Porter Ave. 2885 Main St. 150 Southside Pkwy.

1045 W. Delavan Ave. 86 W. Chippewa St. 820 Northampton St. 820 Northampton St. 874 Amherst St. 1515 South Park Ave. 256 S. Elmwood Ave. 2885 Main St. 646 E. Delavan Ave. 487 High St. 51 Ontario St. 1500 Elmwood Ave. 370 Lafayette Ave. 186 E. North St.

*ADMISSIONS TESTING FOR FREDERICK LAW OLMSTED PS #64 WILL BE SCHEDULED BY APPOINTMENT ONLY; 11/18 (K-1), 12/16 (K-4) AUDITIONS FOR BUFFALO ACADEMY FOR VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS (PS #192) WILL TAKE PLACE AT 450 MASTEN AVE. DATE

TIME

GRADE LEVEL(S)

October 14 & 21

8:00 a.m.

9, 10, 11, 12

November 4 & 18

8:00 a.m.

5, 6, 7, 8

 All students MUST fulfill the admissions requirements found at http://www.buffaloartsacademy.org/admissions-process

ADMISSIONS TESTING FOR CITY HONORS SCHOOL (PS #195) & FREDERICK LAW OLMSTED MIDDLE & HIGH SCHOOL (PS #156) WILL TAKE PLACE AT 319 SUFFOLK ST. DATE TIME GRADE LEVEL(S) TESTING FOR: STUDENTS TO BE TESTED:

October 14 October 21 November 4

8:00 a.m.

1:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m.

1:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m.

1:00 p.m.

9 6, 7, 8, 5 6, 8 5, 6, 7 8, 9 10, 11, 12

PS #156/#195 PS #156/#195 PS #156/#195 PS #156/#195 PS #156/#195 PS #156/#195 PS #156

NON-BPS STUDENTS ONLY NON-BPS STUDENTS ONLY NON-BPS STUDENTS ONLY BPS STUDENTS ONLY BPS & NON-BPS STUDENTS

Current BPS Students  Students interested in 5th, 7th, or 9th grade for 2018-2019 may test at their home school; please contact your child’s principal.  Students applying for 6th, 8th, 10th, 11th, or 12th grades for 2018-19 cannot test at their home school. See above for test dates/times Non-BPS Students MUST provide the items below ON THE TESTING DATE:  Two (2) distinct proofs of City of Buffalo residency: parent’s NYS driver’s or non-driver’s license; gas, cable, or electric bill dated within the last 30 days (only 1 may be used; no other utility bills accepted); parent’s pay stub dated within the last 30 days; Notice of Decision from the Erie County Department of Social Services from 2017  Applicant’s final CUMULATIVE 2016-17 report card  Applicant’s final CUMULATIVE 2016-17 school attendance record (may appear on the report card)  Completed 2018-2019 Elementary or High School Application available at www.buffaloschools.org  Current IEP, 504, or English Language Learner documents (if applicable)

APPLICATION WINDOW: Oct. 2 –dec. 1, 2017 www.buffaloschools.org

VOICES

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •September 27, 2017

BUFFALO POLICE WHO CROSS THE LINE continued with these officers. One, whose house was subject to a search in 2015 that a judge subsequently ruled was not permissible, testified that a Strike Force officer brushed off protests with a declaration: “We work for the mayor. We’re Strike Force. We can do whatever the fuck we want to do.”

Proactive Policing Strike Force and the Housing Unit have distinctive roles in the police department.

Unlike a regular unit, Strike Force can patrol anywhere in the city. Its 20 officers are deployed to high-crime neighborhoods, and they routinely conduct traffic checkpoints. Strike Force also partners with other law enforcement agencies to gather intelligence.

While Strike Force bears most of the responsibility for implementing what Rinaldo called a “proactive” policing mission, Housing Unit officers at times work with Strike Force. The Housing Unit was created in 2010 and is made up of 18 officers who are responsible for patrolling the complexes of the Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority.

“This is another effort that continues our commitment to reducing crime, apprehending anyone involved in criminal activity and improving our law abiding residents’ quality of life,” Brown said in a press release when the Housing Unit was established.

A dozen officers in the Housing Unit and in Strike Force, both led by Chief Aaron Young, were involved in the cases reviewed by Investigative Post.

Together, Strike Force and the Housing Unit made 1,826 arrests, 120 of them gun related, between July 2016 to July 2017, the only year of data police provided to Investigative Post.

A coalition of lawyers and activists, citing a two-year study by University of Buffalo and Cornell law schools, asked the state attorney general in August to investigate what they contend is a pattern of illegal searches, discriminatory policing and other misconduct by the Buffalo Police Department. “[Buffalo] took a page from Rudy Giuliani’s campaign in New York City,” Anjana Malhotra, one of the co-authors of the study, said at a press conference in September. “It took actual techniques that have been ruled unconstitutional and is applying them with impunity top-down.”

Strike Force and Housing Unit officers are cited as perpetrators of this kind of conduct.

One mother of a young black man who was arrested by Strike Force officers said she’s not against the mission of these units. She’s glad they got her son’s gun.

“They want it off the street. I want it off the street. I don’t want it in my son’s pocket. They don’t want it in his pocket,” said the woman, who spoke on the condition she would not be identified because she fears police retaliation.

But, she said, these officers are “supposed to uphold the law at all times.”

“And it seems really like they’re a gang against the community.”

Rinaldo, The Police Spokesman, Disagreed.

“Is it something where the department encourages people to go out and violate rights? Of course not. Our goal is to make the city as safe of a place as we can.”

Scott Decker, a professor of criminology at Arizona State University, who has studied the gang strategies of police across the country, said arrest and prosecution are necessary for a successful law enforcement response to violent crime.

But, he added, “If it’s the only thing done after a short term it loses effectiveness. It begins to undermine confidence in the position of police on the part of the community.”

Illegal searches Police encounters with the public are governed by the Constitution and legal precedents that have established when, how and to what extent a police officer can question, detain or search an individual.

The types of questions officers can ask, whether they can pursue someone who is fleeing or pat down someone they have stopped, for example, depend on whether they suspect a crime has happened, or is about to.

But reasonable suspicion of criminal activity “is not satisfied by a hunch, intuition, or inchoate suspicion,” wrote federal Magistrate Judge Kenneth Schroeder in a decision earlier this year in which he recommended to rule out as evidence a gun because it was seized in an illegal search.

Strike Force and Housing Unit officers don’t always stick to these principles, however.

“Their job [as officers see it] is to go out and prevent crime just about by any means necessary,” said Kevin Stadelmaier, the chief of criminal defense at the Legal Aid Bureau, a public defenders office in Buffalo. “And if that means you violate the constitutional rights of an entire group of people, that’s what they’re going to do.”

For example, Housing Unit officers scoping out a liquor store for underage patrons would likely have the authority to ask customers for their age or identification. But on an evening in April 2011, one officer took it a step too far, according to the judge’s ruling, by searching the backpack of a man without any justification as he was trying to leave the store.

Although the officer seized a gun, Erie County Judge Michael Pietruszka ruled that the officer had no authority to ask permission to search because there was no evidence of criminal activity or danger to the officers. The case was dismissed.

In another case, Erie County Judge Thomas Franczyk suppressed evidence of a gun because the officers justified their pursuit and eventual arrest of a young Black man because he was walking near a store where Black men have congregated in the past and, at times, engaged in illicit drug activity.

“Proactive police work in the face of burgeoning gun and drug crimes is commendable,” wrote Franczyk in his decision, “but must be tempered by the Fourth Amendment lest the right to inquire be confused with the right to seize just because a person happens to be walking in the vicin-

“We wish to plead our own cause.

Too long have others spoken for us.”

- John Russwurm, Freedom’s Journal.

1827 America’s 1st Black Newspaper

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

P: 716 881.1051 F: 716 881.1053

Sabirah Muhammad is Right On Point!

Dear Editor: The article "The Battle to Repeal Obama's Care" by Sabirah Muhammad in your Sept.20 isdear sue was so editor on point.

She connected with me and all woke Black people of African decent in America. Her analysis and research is clear that a proxy war on Black America is real.

The Whites extreme dislike for Black people have the political power structure willing to sacrifice thousands of their own in order to hurt millions of Black people.

Ms. Muhammad's essay laid-out the pathologic's DNA of the political rulers in Washington, Crazytown. Hopefully, the piece will be read by cultural-nationalist and realize the 500 year war on African people is still on. Stay Woke!!!

Roy St.Clair

ity of a location where drugs are known to be sold.”

Judges also need to assess the entire context of an encounter in determining whether a search is lawful. But these determinations are not always clear cut.

In 2012, a man was stopped and searched by Housing Unit officers because he fit the description of a suspect described in a 911 call – a man wearing a blue hoodie and blue jeans. He initially pled guilty to criminal possession of a weapon.

But the plea was vacated in 2015 by the Appellate Division. In the ruling, the judges acknowledged that police had a right to stop and ask the man basic questions because he fit the description of the suspect.

But the search was ruled improper because the suspect did not do anything to raise suspicion or make the police feel threatened.

(Next Week- Part 2 Conclusiion )

11

We Lost the Election, But Learned So Much!

A

By Duncan Kirkwood

s some of you may know, I ran for Erie County Legislature for district 2, The seat about to be vacated by Legislator Betty Jean Grant.

First and foremost, I want to say thank you to everyone across the district that supported the movement we started.

I cannot say thank you enough for the prayers, the support, the time, the energy, and the donations. Eighty percent of the people that donated to our campaign had never given to a political campaign in their entire life. So we thank those who have now taken a step into involvement in the local political process.

We came about 340 votes short of victory, but we won a huge victory for the community. We sent shock waves all the way to Albany. We stood up to not just a political machine, but to multiple political machines in our community, and several outside our community. We showed that when the community comes together, ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE. We brought the same message to folks in Langfield as we do to folks on Bidwell Parkway, and we learned that we all have common goals: The safety of our families, clean drinking water, access to senior services, great programs for our youth, equal opportunities to benefit from county government, and support for our veterans.

We learned what groups do what. We learned what organizations will support who and why. Which endorsements are for sale, and which are based on merit. We learned which news publications will print knowingly false information to influence leadership in our community. We learned how to petition, and how to canvass. We learned how to raise money, and how to report it. We learned which churches will embrace educated and qualified new leaders, and which will not. But the most important thing we learned was that you can never truly lose when your heart is for improving the community. That there is always a blessing in working to serve people, to help make their lives better.

Now that the primaries are over, it’s back to business as usual. The yard signs are gone, the promises have faded, and the phone calls have stopped. Those who feel voiceless, or who are living in poverty are back to the everyday grind of trying to survive. There is no superman coming to save our communities, we have to step up and be the change we want to see. In fact, when those people come to our communities that we have never met saying they are here to help up, we need to be incredibly skeptical.

In 2019 the school board seats, the council seats, and the legislative seats are all up for reelection. So If anyone is interested in running for something, I am happy to share all of the information we have acquired. I am happy to share the things that worked well, and the lessons I learned from missteps.

Community leaders, activists, educators, if you are thinking you might want to step out and run, do not be afraid. Do not doubt yourself.

We have started a movement, and I am just a young man that made it out of the hood in Central Park. There is no reason anyone else cannot make a difference as well. We are puttingpeople over politics, and we can’t stop, so we won’t stop!

(Pictured above, Duncan and Mrs. Kirkwood)

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

• Ad Deadline: Friday 5 p.m.

• Classified Deadline: Thursday 5 p.m.

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

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

12

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •September 27, 2017

BILLS UPDATE

BY GEORGE RADNEY

Why Taking A Knee Matters From Louis Armstrong to the N.F.L.: Ungrateful as the New Uppity

S

PHOTO JEROME DA VIS

Bills Surprise Broncos in 26 – 16 Win !

The Bills got off to a slow start with offensive tackle Dion Dawkins allowing Von Miller to beat him easily for a sack of Tyrod Taylor. But Bills offensive coordinator Rick Dennison made necessary adjustments in order to slow Von Miller down.

The Bills defense continues to dominate and put pressure on their opponents. It’s a credit to defense coordinator Leslie Frazier and his coaching staff’s hard work in putting the defensive scheme together. The Bills defense forced the Broncos quarterback into two interceptions by cornerbacks E.J. Gaines and Tre Davious White who, respectively, were key plays in Bills pulling the upset win.

Bills strong safety Micah Hyde: “We made mistakes out there …. and were able to turn things around. The young guys are playing well. We are going to have highs and lows throughout a long 16 game season. The guys are going to complete passes on you, guys are going to get touchdowns on you but we must be able to flush it, and move.”

Tyrod Taylor went 20/26 passing for 213 yards and a passing percentage of 76.9%. That percentage moved him into seventh place on the all-time on Buffalo Bills completion list passing J.P. Losman. The best parts of Tyrod Taylor’s game was on display Sunday afternoon in the sense he does not turn the ball over too much, and along with his running ability, turns almost certain losses into positive yardage.

Broncos veteran nose guard Damata Peko Sr. said of Tyrod Taylor : “Tyrod did a great job of escaping the pocket to extend the play, allowing his receivers down field time to get open.

He’s an elusive and slippery guy. We got him down a couple of times but that was not enough.”

Yes, these are the reasons Tyrod should be the Buffalo Bills quarterback now and in the future. It’s no coincidence that Kyle Williams name was not called too much due to the absence of Marcell Dareus (high ankle sprain). Adolphus Washington has been doing a fine job so far, but the Bills will need a healthy Marcell Dareus back in that frontline hopefully after the bye week of October 15th. He’s a key component of taking up space in the middle of the Bills defense.

T he Bills travel to Atlanta next to take on defending NFC Champs and Super Bowl losers to the Patriots. The Bills running game must dominate in order to keep the Falcons explosive offense off the field. It’s going to be a time of possession lead for the Bills along with a couple of turnovers which will be needed. I still see Atlanta coming away with a 27- 20 win over an up in coming Bills team.

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!

By Jelani Cobb

ixty years ago, Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, became a flashpoint in the nascent civilrights movement when Governor Orval Faubus refused to abide by the Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education. Faubus famously deployed the state’s National Guard to prevent nine AfricanAmerican students from attending classes at the high school. In the midst of the crisis, a highschool journalist interviewing Louis Armstrong about an upcoming tour asked the musician about his thoughts on the situation, prompting Armstrong to refer to the Arkansas governor as several varieties of “MF's.”

(In the interest of finding a printable quote, his label for Faubus was changed to “ignorant plowboy.”) Armstrong, who was scheduled to perform in the Soviet Union as a cultural ambassador on behalf of the State Department, cancelled the tour—a display of dissent that earned him the scorn and contempt of legions of whites, shocked by the trumpeter’s apparent lack of patriotism. As the historian Penny Von Eschen notes in “Satchmo Blows Up the World,” a history of the American usage of black culture as a tool of the Cold War, students at the University of Arkansas accused Armstrong of “creating an issue where there was none,” and joined the procession of groups cancelling Armstrong’s scheduled concerts.

The free-range lunacy of Donald Trump’s speech on Friday night in Alabama, where he referred to Colin Kaepernick— and other N.F.L. players who silently protest police brutality— as a “son of a bitch,” and of the subsequent Twitter tantrums in which the President, like a truculent six-year-old, disinvited J Golden State Warriors from the a White House visit, illustrates that the passage of six decades has not dimmed this dynamic confronted by Armstrong, or by any prominent black person tasked with the entertainment of millions of white ones. There again is the presence of outrage for events that should shock the conscience, and the reality of people who sincerely believe, or who have at least convincingly lied to themselves, that dissenters are creating an issue where there is none. Kaepernick began his silent, kneeling protest at the beginning of last season, not as an assault against the United States military or the flag but as a dissent against a system that has, with a great degree of consistency, failed to hold accountable police who kill unarmed citizens. Since he

The Bills Take A Knee. Photo Jerome Davis did this, forty-one unarmed individuals have been fatally shot by police in the United States, twelve of them African-American, according to a database maintained by the Washington Post. The city of St. Louis recently witnessed three days of protests after the acquittal of Jason Stockley, the former officer who, while still working for the city’s police force, fatally shot Anthony Smith, an eighteenyear-old African-American motorist who had led officers on a chase. Stockley emerged from his vehicle, having declared that he would “kill the motherfucker,” then proceeded to fire five rounds into the car. Later, a firearm was found on the seat of Smith’s car, but the weapon bore only Stockley’s DNA. The issue is not imaginary.

Yet the belief endures, from Armstrong’s time and before, that visible, affluent AfricanAmerican entertainers are obliged to adopt a pose of ceaseless gratitude—appreciation for the waiver that spared them the low status of so many others of their kind. Stevie Wonder began a performance in Central Park last night by taking a knee, prompting Congressman Joe Walsh to tweet that Wonder was “another ungrateful black multi-millionaire.” Ungrateful is the new uppity. Trump’s supporters, by a twenty-four-point margin, agree with the idea that most Americans have not got as much as they deserve—though they overwhelmingly withhold the right to that sentiment from African-Americans. Thus, the wonder is not the unhinged behavior of this weekend but rather that it took Trump so long to exploit a target as rich in potential racial resentment as wealthy black athletes who have the temerity to believe in the First Amendment.

It’s impossible not to be struck

by Trump’s selective patriotism. It drives him to curse at black football players but leaves him struggling to create false equivalence between Nazis and

anti-Fascists in Charlottesville.

It inspires a barely containable contempt for Muslims and immigrants but leaves him mute in the face of Russian election intervention. He cannot tolerate the dissent against literal flagwaving but screams indignation at the thought of removing monuments to the Confederacy, which attempted to revoke the authority symbolized by that same flag. He is the vector of the racial id of the class of Americans who sent death threats to Louis Armstrong, the people who necessitated the presence of a newly federalized National Guard to defend black students seeking to integrate a public school. He contains multitudes—all of them dangerously ignorant.

It has been convenient and politically profitable for Trump to paint the black athletes’ protests as an inane attack upon the symbols of the United States, but he is deeply implicated, and is increasingly aggravating the actual cause of this discord. It was Trump who urged police officers in Brentwood, New York, to treat the suspects in their charge with casual brutality. Trump’s Department of Justice has overseen the dismantling of the community-policing initiative, which was meant to encourage greater rapport between law enforcement and the neighborhoods they patrol. It is the President’s D.O.J. that has displayed disdain for the federal consent decrees that had been used to reform dysfunctional police departments.

A week and a half ago, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, the White House press secretary, assailed the black ESPN journalist Jemele Hill for referring to Trump on Twitter as an “ignorant white supremacist.” She asserted that Hill’s tweets were a “fireable offense.” Several days later, Trump attacked the sports network on Twitter and demanded that it “apologize for untruth.” After Trump rescinded his White House invitation

to the Golden State Warriors, Hill tweeted, “Hey @stephencurry30, welcome to the club, bro.” LeBron James tweeted that Trump was a “bum”— which inspired criticism that he had crossed a line. (James was, it should be noted, considerably kinder than Louis Armstrong might have been.) The club of Trump dissidents grew larger on Sunday, when dozens of players from the Baltimore Ravens and the Jacksonville Jaguars took a knee, and Shad Khan, the owner of the Jaguars, locked arms with players and coaches who remained standing during the national anthem. All but one of the Pittsburgh Steelers opted to remain in their locker room during the playing of the national anthem ahead of their game against the Chicago Bears. Both the Seattle Seahawks and the Tennessee Titans decided to do the same for their game. If Trump’s intention was to stigmatize such displays, his words have had the opposite effect. He is perhaps the greatest example of the law of unintended consequences this side of the Darwin Awards.

Amid Trump’s nuclear brinksmanship and social-media provocation toward North Korea, amid the swollen gorges of water streaming through Puerto Rico, amid the craven and indefensible attempts to gut health care, amid the slower-moving crises of voting access, economic inequality, and climate change—amid all these things, Trump yet again found a novel way to diminish the nation he purportedly leads. He has authored danger in more ways than there are novel ways to denounce it. This is his singular genius. When this moment has elapsed, when some inevitably unsatisfactory punctuation has concluded the Trump era, we will be left with an infinitude of questions. But Trump, we will assuredly understand, is a small man with a fetish for the symbols of democracy and a bottomless hostility for the actual practice of it.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •September 27, 2017

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

EMPLOYMENT

LEGAL NOTICE Bids ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Sealed bids for Project Nos. 45679-C,H,P,E, comprising separate contracts for Construction Work, HVAC Work, Plumbing Work, and Electrical Work, Provide Building Upgrades, Industry Limited Secure Center, 375 Rush Scottsville Road, Rush, (Monroe County), NY, will be received by the Office of General Services (OGS), Design & Construction Group (D&C), Division of Contract Management, 35th Fl., Corning Tower, Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12242, on behalf of the Office of Children and Family Services, until 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 11, 2017, when they will be publicly opened and read. Each bid must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders and must be accompanied by a certified check, bank check, or bid bond in the amount of $374,600 for C, $91,800 for H, $58,100 for P, and $127,800 for E. All successful bidders will be required to furnish a Performance Bond and a Labor and Material Bond in the statutory form of public bonds required by Sections 136 and 137 of the State Finance Law, each for 100% of the amount of the Contract estimated to be between $14,000,000 and $15,000,000 for C, between $3,000,000 and $4,000,000 for H, between $1,000,000 and $2,000,000 for P, and between $5,000,000 and $6,000,000 for E. Designated staff are Jessica Hoffman, Carl Ruppert and Pierre Alric in the Division of Contract Management, telephone (518) 474-0203, fax (518) 473-7862 and John Lewyckyj, Deputy Director, Design & Construction Group, telephone (518) 4740201, fax (518) 486-1650.

The Contract Documents provide for Construction Acceleration Incentives not to exceed $369,000 for C, $81,000 for H, $42,000 for P, and $126,000 for E. The only time prospective bidders will be allowed to visit the job site will be at 10:00 a.m. on September 28, 2017, Building 90, Industry Secure Center.

Phone the office of Kristina Johnson, (585-591-0356) a minimum of 48 hours in advance of the date to provide the names of those who will attend the pre-bid site visit.

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

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

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

For questions about purchase of bid documents, please send an e-mail to DC.Plans@ogs.ny.gov, or call(518) 474-0203.

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

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

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ROOMS

Housing Supervisor – Fulltime with benefits. High school diploma plus 3 years home construction or equivalent trades, computer literate. NYS valid driver’s license. Responsibilities include housing grant program management to include home inspections, spec writing, bidding, etc. Send resume and 2 references by October 2, 2017, to S. Shears, Niagara Community Action Program, Inc., 1521 Main Street, Niagara Falls, NY 14305. EOE

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

(716)818-3410.

To Advertise, Email: advertising@thechallengernews.com

JOBS

Are you a Business Professional?

Come Boost your career in eastside Buffalo Property Management!

We are now hiring Site Managers and Leasing Agents!

Duties include leasing apartments, certifying residents, collecting rents, supervising staff and negotiating with contractors. Must have excellent computer and people skills! EOE. FT, with benefits. HUD Experience a plus!

Send Resume/references to: HR, 215 Broadway, Buffalo, NY 14204 or fax to 854-2981.

Buffalo Employment and Training Center /

BETC 716-856-5627

JOB ALERT Hiring:

www.workforcebuffalo.org

Unlawful discrimination. “This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer. If you wish to file a program complaint of discrimination complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html or at any USDA office or call (866)632-9992 to request the form. Send your completed complaint form and letter to us by mail and the US Department of Agriculture, Director , Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, DC 20250-9410 or by fax (202)690-7442 or email at program.intake@usda.gov.”

legal Notices -LEGAL NOTICEANDERSON FAMILY ENTERPRISE, LLC. Art. Of Org. filed with SSNY on 9/5/2017. Office: Erie Co. SSNY desi. as agt. for process & shall mail to: The LLC, 249 Tacoma Ave, Buffalo, NY 14216. Any lawful purpose.

Sept. 13, 20, 27 Oct 4,11,18 -LEGAL NOTICENOTICE of FORMATION of a DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Name of LLC, T.A.G. Rental Properties, LLC Date of filing of Articles of Organization with the NY Dept. of State: August 11, 2017. Office of the LLC: 37 Humason Ave Buffalo, NY 14211 Erie County. Contact: Antionette T. Craig (808) 489-7548.

The NY Secretary of State has been designated as the agent upon whom process may be served. NYSS may mail a copy of process to the LLC at 37 Humason Ave Buffalo, NY. Purpose of LLC: Rental Assistance and Property Management. No specific duration attached to LLC. Sept. 13, 20, 27 Oct 4,11,18 -LEGAL NOTICENOTICE of FORMATION of a DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Name of LLC: Superior Support Staffing LLC Date of filing of Articles of Organization with the NY Dept of State: July 21, 2017 Office of the LLC: Erie County The NY Secretary of State has been designated as the agent upon whom process may be served. NYSS may mail a copy of any process to the LLC at: 50 Fountain Plaza Suite 1400 Buffalo, NY 14202 Purpose of LLC: Employment Agency The LLC is to be mana\ged

by Vivian Zola, LPN Sept. 13, 20, 27 Oct 4,11,18

-LEGAL NOTICEJ &W PLANNING GROUP, LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/05/2017. Office in Erie County. SSNY is the designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 163 Richmond Avenue Buffalo, NY 14222.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Sept. 27, Oct 4,11,18,25, Nov.1

-LEGAL NOTICEMalcolm Properties & Management LLC. Art. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/11/17. Office: Erie County.

SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 212 Wallace Ave, Buffalo, NY 14216. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Sept.27, Oct. 4,11,18,25, Nov.1.

To Advertise, Email: advertising@thechallengernews.com

LEGAL NOTICE Bid

NFTA Procurement Invitation to Bid

4682 - AIRPORT FOOD, BEVERAGE, AND CONCESSIONS SERVICES Download Bids from www. nfta.com

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

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

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

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

To Advertise, Email: advertising@thechallengernews.com

Affordable Living For Disabled, Elderly, Families, Individuals and Seniors

HANOVER HILL APARTMENTS Conveniently located at 1413 Central Avenue, Silver Creek, NY 14136

Accepting applications for our waiting list Fully Subsidized 1 and 2 bedroom units that include: Stove & Refrigerator Water & Sewer On Site Laundry & Parking Trash & Snow Removal 24 Hour Maintenance Rent based on 30% of adjusted income

Income limits apply

FOR RENTAL INFORMATION CALL: (716) 934-0099 TDD Relay 711 EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

Unlawful discrimination. "This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer. If you wish to file a Civil Rights program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust. html, or at any USDA office, or call (866) 632-9992 to request the form. You may also write a letter containing all of the information requested in the form. Send your completed complaint form or letter to us by mail at U.S. Department of Agriculture, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, by fax (202) 690-7442 or email at program.intake@usda.gov.”

14

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •September 27, 2017

NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS SUN 9/17

MID-4-3-1

3-WAY

EVE-2-5-1

WIN 4

MON 9/18

TUES 9/19

MID-1-4-0

WED 9/20

MID-2-6-2

MID-4-4-4

EVE-9-4-2

EVE-5-2-9

EVE-2-4-1

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MID-9-1-2-7 EVE-6-1-5-8

MID-9-3-6-7 EVE-4-5-6-0

THURS 9/21 MID-0-2-8

EVE-1-8-8 MID-3-3-0-7 EVE-2-7-3-5

FRI 9/22

MID-8-0-9

EVE-8-9-9 MID-3-1-2-9 EVE-8-8-3-5

SAT 9/23

MID-7-0-2

EVE-0-8-4 MID-8-7-0-5 EVE-2-3-6-7

advertising@thechallengernews.com

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ATTORNEYS

DOG TRAINING

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

DOGMAN’S K -9 Obedience Training

1963 Fillmore Avenue (716) 807-8163

AUTO

ELECTRICAL

BEN’S Downtown Tire

EMPIRE ELECTRIC (716) 634-0330

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

Colston Mobil Auto Repair

716 E. Ferry (Near Fillmore)

(716) 896-3910

BANQUETS/EVENTS THE LANDMARK ON PEARL

318 Pearl St. (Across from the Hyatt) (716) 884-1444

BAIL BONDS GIST BAIL BONDS

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

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

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

FASHION F& S Fashions

2372 Genesee St. (716) 894-3742

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

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

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

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

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •September 27, 2017

WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 27 Hustle for Health Seniors line dance fitness class Gloria J Parks Center 3242 Main St. 11am - 12pm 716 832-1010. FREE The Durham Central City Baby Café . Info and support for pregnant and breastfeeding moms 5:30 – 7:30 pm 200 Eagle St. 885-6348 Urban Line Dance Classes: St. Phillips, 15 Fernhill ; 6-8 p.m.; Cheri & Darel 200-9702.

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WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 4 A Buffalo Conversation, on Racism, Classism and Gentrification: Merriweather Library 1324 Jefferson Avenue, 5:307:45 p.m.. Some of the Invited Panelist: Katrinna MartinBordeaux, India Walton, John Washington.

Discover your next opportunity

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 28 A Community Toast to Betty Jean Grant! Open Mic, Food, Music, and much much more; 5 PM - 9 PM Rafi Green Community Resource Center,1423 N. Fillmore Ave.

Now hiring part-time associates in Buffalo, NY

BETC 2017 Fall Career Fair: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., 77 Goodell St. 8568139; bring your resume. Dress for success.

Are you ready to take on the world? Amazon is hiring part-time seasonal associates in Buffalo. Apply online, complete our quick assessment, and watch your email for next steps.

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS TRAINING: Hosted by AMVETS Post No. 24 Frank E. Merriweather Library 6 to 7p.m.

FOXIE BROWN LINE DANCE CLASSES: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., Schiller Senior Center, 2057 Genesee St. 444-2046.

The Durham Central City Baby Café . Info and support for pregnant and breastfeeding moms 5:30 – 7:30 pm 200 Eagle St. 885-6348.

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 30 Fish Sub Fundraiser: Dorothy Collier Community Center, 118 East Utica Street; 570-3884 to order.

Eye On History Award: Presented to Artist James J. Cooper lll at the Merriweather Library, 3 p.m.

Clothing Giveaway: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Hopewell Baptist Church Annex, 1307 Fillmore at Urban.

Black Chamber of Commerce WNY: Networking and membership info session Delavan Grider Community Center, 877 E. Delavan Ave. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

GOODE$$ CITYWIDE YOUTH OPEN MIC : Rafri Greene CAO Center 1423 Fillmore Avenue {parking lot}, Music By: DJ Ras Muata ; 1 - 6pm..

Mike’s Smooth Urban Ballroom Dance Classes: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Delavan-Grider Community Center, 877 E. Delavan. 380-5100. $5 SUNDAY OCTOBER 1 FUNDRAISER for “Luxuri Looks Virgin Hair”: 5 p.m. Bethesda World Harvest Church, 1365 Main Street to aid Teresa Chapman whose business was destroyed by fire. Donations may also be sent payable to: Tersa Chapman, PO Box 98, Buffalo, NY 14225.

MONDAY OCTOBER 2 African Consciousness Workshop Documentary Series: 6-8 p.m.

Frank Merriweather Library “Black America Since MLK – Still I Rise” Part 1; Free Admission.

TUESDAY OCTOBER 3 Charter School of Inquiry Monthly Business Meeting: 4:45 p.m., 404 Edison, 716-833-3250 or email info@csicharter.org The public is invited.

City of Buffalo Revaluation Information Meetings The City is in the process of reviewing, and adjusting if necessary, the assessed value of all property, residential, commercial, and industrial, in Buffalo.

In partnership with The City Tax Department, The Council will host information sessions throughout The City to explain the revaluation process and answer questions.

Proper and correct data information for each property is essential in establishing a fair and equitable value. Meeting dates are as follows: : •Lovejoy-Autumnwood Senior Center, 1800 Clinton Street, Wednesday, September 27 at 6 pm •Delaware-North Buffalo Community Center, 203 Sanders Road, on Thursday, September 28 at 6:00pm •Niagara-Lafayette High School, 370 Lafayette Ave., an Thursday, October 12th at 6:30pm •South-Southside Elementary School 430 Southside Parkway, on Monday, October 16th at 6:00pm •Fillmore Part 1-Theater of Youth, 203 Allen Street, on Thursday, October 19th at 6:00pm •Fillmore Part 2-Matt Urban Center, 1081 Broadway St., on Monday, October 23rd at 6:00pm •North-McKinley High School, 1500 Elmwood Ave., on Wednesday, October 25th at 6:00pm •Masten-Delavan Grider Community Center, 877 East Delavan Avenue, on Monday, October 30th, 2017 at 6:00pm •Ellicott--TBD For further information, please call Clayton B. Hoyt at 851-6699 or e-mail councilstaff@city-buffalo. com.

Benefits include:

• • •

Weekly and holiday pay

Apply Today!

Flexible shifts Casual Dress

Apply now

amazon.com/buffalojobs Amazon is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action Employer — Minority / Female / Disability / Veteran / Gender Identity / Sexual Orientation

Meet Gretchen Owner, Peg’s Hardware

“The Allstate MWEE program has afforded me the opportunity to take my business to the next level. With the understanding I gained from taking this class, I don’t see any limits to how far I can tag Peg’s. I was also paired with an incredible mentor who helped me focus and figure out how to build my brand. I would highly recommend this program to anyone looking to continue the health growth of your business! ” -Gretchen Meyers, 2017 Graduate

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

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •September 27, 2017

IMAGES OF US

Homeownership is important.

We’re here to help first-time homebuyers navigate the mortgage process and make buying a home affordable, even if you have:

DR. UMAR JOHNSON DELIVERS IMPORTANT MESSAGE: Dr. Umar Johnson (center in blue),noted scholar and school psychologist, spoke in Buffalo at St Luke AME Zion Church September 9. He is pictured above with members of the local U.N.I.A. PHOTO STARLIGHT MEDIA

• Little money for a downpayment • Little or “less-than-perfect” credit history • A recent job change To get started, call 1-888-253-0993 or visit mtb.com/mortgage.

Equal Housing Lender.

This is not a commitment to make a mortgage loan. Certain restrictions apply. Subject to credit and property approval. ©2017 M&T Bank. Member FDIC. NMLS# 381076 Challenger: 5.105” x 5.5” - 4/2017

Great Expectations Labor & Delivery Open House Tuesday, October 10 Come see why more families 4:30 pm - 7 pm choose Sisters Hospital to deliver their babies.

Meet Our Team Take a Tour

(Every half hour; start at the Piver Center) l l l l

l l

Labor & Delivery Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Sisters OB-GYN Center Piver Center for Women’s Health & Wellness WIC Centering Pregnancy Club House

Need a doctor? We can help you find a provider who is right for you.

Space is limited. Call 923-9790 to reserve your spot.

Visit Our Health Fair (After Your Tour)

Join us in Sisters Hospital’s Cafeteria to learn more about: l Infant Sleep Safety l Infant/Child CPR l Car Seat Safety l Baby Café l Childbirth Classes for the Whole Family l Women’s Health & Wellness Enjoy refreshments, prizes, giveaways and much more!

Sisters of Charity Hospital 2157 Main St., Buffalo, NY 14214