Challenger Community News September 2, 2015

CHALLENGER

I N S I D E : B O A R D O F E L E C T I O N S C I T Y O F B U F FA L O P O L L I N G P L A C E S & O F F I C I A L P R I M A RY E L E C T I O N N O T I C E

SEPTEMBER 2, 2015 • FREE

WE PROUDLY ENDORSE…

Sharon Belton-Cottman Masten District

JaHarr Pridgen City Court Judge

Was Buff City Hoops the Victim of Politricks? PG. 7 ENTERTAINMENT

Godfather Returns to The Concert Scene PG. 8

Kelly Brinkworth Family Court Judge

PG. 3

Samuel A. Herbert Fillmore District

Please Cast Your Vote For The Challenger’s Endorsed Candidates on

PRIMARY ELECTION DAY, THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10!

INSIDE ROC

INTERNATIONAL

The Crisis of African Refugees PG. 4

Rochester School District Benefits From $200,000 NFL Grassroots Grant PG. 2

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INSIDE ROCHESTER

Challenger Community News • September 2, 2015

AroundTown *The Eighth Annual Sankofa Evening of Theatre & Jazz Fest concludes its twoweek run at 7:30 p.m. Sept.

3, 4, and 5 at the Multi-Use Community Cultural Center (MuCCC), 142 Atlantic Ave., Admission is $12 in advance and $16 at the door. For tickets or details, call Mood Makers Books at (585) 271-7010 or go to www.muccc.org Members of the Franklin Modified Football Team visited Bills training camp at St. John Fisher College and were presented a ceremonial check by Bills President and Managing Partner Russ Brandon.

Buffalo Bills, Local Support Corporation Donate $200,000 To The Rochester City School District

*Back 2 School Bash, Saturday, September 12, 1-3 p.m., Jordan Health at Community Place, 145 Parsells Ave., free food, games, music, health screenings, backpacks and school supplies. For more information call (585)4232879 or (585)434-7530.

NFL Grassroots Grant will go towards the construction of a synthetic turf football field at the Franklin Campus

• Have you ever injected or snorted drugs?

ROCHESTER, NY – The Buffalo Bills and the Local Initiatives Support Corporation have donated $200,000 to the Rochester City School District to help build a synthetic turf football field at the Franklin Campus through the National Football League Foundation Grassroots Grant Program. The Franklin Campus Field will be utilized by two high schools that share the educational facility, Vanguard Collegiate High School and the Integrated Arts and Technology High School. The facility will also provide a safe playing surface for local athletic programs including local youth football leagues and the Rochester City School District 7th and 8th grade modified football program, which began in 2014.

To celebrate the announcement of the grant, members of the Franklin Modified Football Team visited Bills training camp at St. John Fisher College and were presented a ceremonial check

by Buffalo Bills President and Managing Partner Russ Brandon.

“The Bills are proud to partner with LISC and the National Football League Foundation on this project to benefit young people in the city of Rochester,” said Bills President and Managing Partner Russ Brandon. “As an organization, we concentrate on promoting fitness and health and safety within the Western New York community. We believe this field will provide a safe playing surface for Rochester students to use for youth football training in addition to a number of other fitness-based activities all year-round.”

In partnership with the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) the National Football League Grassroots Program, provides non-profit, neighborhood-based organizations, middle schools and high schools with financing and technical assistance to improve the quality, safety and accessibility of local football fields.Well over one million dollars in grants have been awarded to community facilities on behalf of the NFL Foundation and the Buffalo Bills since 1998.

“We are especially pleased to be making a first award from the Grassroots program in Rochester,” said LISC Executive Director Michael K. Clarke.

• Were you born between 1945-1965?

436-7737

www.jordanhealth.org All insurances accepted. No insurance, no problem.

Sliding fee scale available. Se Habla Espanol.

*Charles “The Natural” Murray Champion Parade A Charles “the Natural” Murray champion parade will be held on Saturday, September 12. The motorcade honoring “Rochester’s First World Champion” will take place from Bullshead Plaza to Frontier Field from 10 a.m. (gathering time 8:30 a.m.). A ceremony at Frontier Field starts at 11 a.m. To register go to www.charlesthenaturalmuray.com

11th Annual Hanover Projects Picnic The Men of Hanover will present their 11th Annual Hanover Projects Picnic on Labor Day Sept 7 from 12 noon until we can’t party anymore!

This year we will be honoring Johnhifer Crittenden aka BooBoo with the “HitMan” Of The Year Award. There will be games, music, food and entertainment so bring the whole family for a day of free fun! We are asking for any donations to be dropped off at the Quick Self Storage and Hauling office at 412 Clifford Ave. for more info, contact Poncho 284-7417 or Kenny at 797-3413.

Ask about confidential Hepatitis C testing and treatment.

Anthony L. Jordan Center

423-HEPC

www.jordanhealth.org

Full day PreK makes all the difference!

“

It’s a joy seeing my son so eager to learn. A full day has given him more time to practice his reading and writing skills, so I know he’ll be ready for kindergarten.

”

-Rochelle, PreK parent

FREE programs include:

• Healthy breakfast and lunch • Literacy and math skills • Computer learning • Music, art, and dramatic play • Indoor/outdoor play and naptime • Free RTS bus pass for parent and child Register today! Call 262-8140 or visit www.rcsdk12.org/prek

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Challenger Community News • September 2, 2015

JUDGE JAHARR S. PRIDGEN

AREA BRIEFS Masten District Debate The Fillmore Leroy Area Residents, Inc. will host a debate for the Masten District Councilmember candidates on Friday, September 4 in St. Charles Hall, located at 317 Leroy Avenue in the rear of the FLARE Community Center (307 Leroy Avenue). The time is 6-7 p.m. and it is open to the public. Columnist and educator Eva Doyle will moderate.

NAN to Host Primary Election Forum The Buffalo Niagara Chapter of the National Action Network (NAN) will host a community forum to familiarize Buffalo voters with the balloted candidates for the city’s upcoming primary election during a Primary Election Candidates Forum from 6 – 8 p.m. at Delaine Waring AME Church, Fellowship Hall, 680 Swan Street. This event is free and open to the public.

Primary Election Day, is Thursday, September 10.

Mascia Suspended as BMHA Tenant Commissioner Mayor Byron W. Brown, one of the targets of Joseph A. Mascia’s “n-word rant,” has suspended Mascia from his position as tenant commissioner at the Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority pending a hearing to determine whether he will be removed from the board for the racially tinged name calling. The public hearing is expected to begin in late September or early October. Mascia remains a candidate in the Fillmore District race.

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 10 IS PRIMARY ELECTION DAY DON’T FORGET TO VOTE!

Buffalo City Court

J

SHARON BELTONCOTTMAN Masten District

T

he most encouraging thing about the race in the Masten District is that all the candidates have shown great promise.

And although they are all qualified to run, only one is unquestionably qualified to lead at this critical juncture in Masten District’s history.

Sharon Belton Cottman is that person. She is the most experienced, the most knowledgable and the most capable to represent Masten District in City Hall. She is not afraid to speak up and ask the hard questions.

We proudly endorse her in the upcoming primary and urge our readers to join us in voting her into office.

Masten has suffered a leadership deficit for many years.

Belton-Cottman will fill that void and bring the kind of strong, uncompromising, compassionate, honest independent energy that will help Masten realize growth and progress along with the rest of the city..

We are excited about her candidacy because it represents such a vast change from the stagnant, politically mired, game-playing status quo.

We join Legislator Betty Jean Grant, Mrs. Eva Doyle, Stephanie Barber-Geter, Rev. Greg Nelson and countless other respected stakeholders in this community in supporting her in this noble and important quest.

Sharon Belton-Cottman has the wisdom, the matu-

rity, the wide ranging experience and genuine love for her people to make a real and impactful difference in the lives of all of Masten’s residents.

She has demonstrated her commitment to our children as the Ferry District representative on the Board of Education, and has pledged that same level of commitment as Council Member to the residents of the Masten district.

This is Masten’s chance to break the chains of mediocrity and “politricks” as usual.

Please vote 7-A on Primary Election Day for Sharon Belton-Cottman.

Experience really does matter…

SAMMUEL A. HERBERT Fillmore District

T

he choice is clear in the Fillmore District Race: Samuel A. Herbert.

Although that seat has eluded him twice in the past – once by only a few hundred votes - Herbert never gave up; returning each time to map out a new strategy to gain that position.

His role as a public advocate in the restoration of MLK Park, specifically over seeing the completion of the long awaited Spray Pad for the children, earned him positive visibility and widespread respect.

Herbert , a decades long resident of the Fillmore district , has seen first hand, its decline and has vowed to make a change if elected.

We believe he can make a positive difference. Mr. Hebert is a fighter and will be a voice for those he is elected to

serve. He has the education, the experience, the commitment and dogged determination to get things done.

Herbert’s platform basically consists of working with community leaders and stakeholders both in the district and on the Council to improve the quality of life for all of his constituents.

We agree with Mr. Herbert, that the incumbent- having served three decades with little to show for it - has served long enough .

Please join us in supporting and voting for Samuel A. Herbert , 6A on Primary Election Day, Thursday, September 10.

We also agree, as Mr. Herbert has declared thoughout his campaign, that his time has come!

KELLY BRINKWORTH Family Court Judge

K

elly Brinkworth is no stranger to families and children in crisis. Throughout her 25-year legal career she has worked in Erie County Family Court and is keenly aware of the disproportionate number of poor and working class families in that court and has come to understand the struggles today’s families face. She is rated Well-Qualified by the Erie County Bar. We need fair, compassionate, impartial and sensitive representation in Family Court, and we believe that Mrs. Brinkworth can deliver.

That is why we are endorsing her candidacy and urge our readers to join us in voting for her on Thursday, September 10th!

udge JaHarr S. Pridgen, currently the youngest jurist on the Buffalo City Court bench, was appointed by Mayor Brown last January.

Today this bright and promising young woman, is seeking a 10-year term on the bench. She has proven her ability to render sound, fair and impartial judgement, as well as represent a compassionate and sensitive presence in the courtroom.

Her credentials and experience – even at her young age of 34 – is impressive.

Additionally, she has b een cross endodrsed as been Rated “Highly Qualified” by the WNY Chapter of the Women’s Bar and “Well Qualified” by the Bar Association of Erie County.

Judge JaHarr is among our brightest and our best. Please join us in supporting and voting to retain her on the City Court Bench on Primary Election Day, Thursday, September 10!

Black Social Workers Luncheon The Buffalo Association of Black Social Workers, Inc. Legends Luncheon will be held on Saturday, September 12 at 1p.m. at the Lafayette Hotel, Crystal Room, 391 Washington Street. The event will recognize individuals serving the African American community as well as award scholarships to Kelli Conerly of UB School of Social Work and Kym Carter, Daemen College-Social Work.

The guest speaker will be Kenneth P. Green, NABSW National Relations Committee, Chair and former House of Representatives, Connecticut (D) from1995-2011.

Tickets are $40 and proceeds will benefit local charities and the BABSW Scholarship Fund. For additional information and/or tickets Email buffaloabsw@yahoo.com; visit http.www.buffaloabswinc. com or call (716) 884-4725

Emmett Louis Till

(July 25, 1941 – August 28, 1955)

Emmett Louis Till Emmett Louis Till was an African-American teenager who was murdered in Mississippi at the age of 14, after reportedly flirting with a White woman.

Till was from Chicago, Illinois, visiting his relatives in Money, Mississippi, in the Mississippi Delta region, when he spoke to 21-year-old Carolyn Bryant, the married proprietor of a small grocery store there. Several nights later, Bryant’s husband Roy and his half-brother J. W. Milam went to Till’s greatuncle’s house. They took Till away to a barn, where they beat him and gouged out one of his eyes, before shooting him through the head and disposing of his body in the Tallahatchie River, weighting it with a 70-pound cotton gin fan tied around his neck with barbed wire. Three days later, Till’s body was discovered and retrieved from the river.

Till’s body was returned to Chicago. His mother, who had raised him mostly by herself, insisted on a public funeral service with an open casket to show the world the brutality of the killing. “The open-coffin funeral held by Mamie Till Bradley exposed the world to more than her son Emmett Till’s bloated, mutilated body.

Her decision focused attention not only on American racism and the barbarism of lynching but also on the limitations and vulnerabilities of American democracy”.[1] Tens of thouContinued Page 13

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LOCAL + NATIONAL + WORLD

Challenger Community News • September 2, 2015

The Crisis of African Refugees at Sea

T

he African migrant crisis is an international catastrophe, as the world has witnessed the recent deaths of Africans attempting to make it to Europe. People are dying by the thousands, yet the world community is not motivated to act to address and alleviate the crisis.

Recently, at least 150 people drowned off the coat of western Libya near the port city of Zuwarah, after a fishing boat sank in the Mediterranean Sea. A Libyan Red Crescent official said that 82 bodies had washed ashore, 198 people were rescued, and 100 more still were unaccounted for.

This accident is among the worst disasters involving the deaths of migrants and refugees trying to reach Europe from North Africa.

This year at least 300,000 people have attempted to make this crossing, with at least 2,500 dying in the process according to the United Nations High Commissioner For refugees. Typically, traffickers pack 300 to 400 people onto fishing boats. In April, another similar Mediterranean boat disaster claimed 400 lives.

Meanwhile, the same day, Hungarian police have arrested four people after the discovery of 71 bodies in a truck, presumed to be Syrian, including 59 men, eight women and four children, as the BBC reported. One child was between one and two years.

The people, who likely suffocated, were presumed dead when the vehicle crossed from Hungary into Austria.

After hundreds of years of European countries slicing up, plundering, raping and enslaving Africa, Africans now escape to Europe—seeking a better life from the realities these European nations helped create in Africa in the first place. And once in Europe, these Africans potentially face even worse conditions and more harsh treatment than the situations they left at home.

Whether these Africans are considered refugees or migrants has significant implications. For example, as the New York Times notes, although the terms are often used interchangeably, the two terms differ. A refugee is someone who has fled his or her country as a result of war or persecution, and can prove this.

The 1951 refugee Convention defines a refugee as, “A person who owing to a well-founded fear of being persecuted for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion, is outside the country of his nationality and is unable or, owing to such fear, is unwilling to avail himself of the protection of that country; or who, not having a nationality and being outside the country of his former habitual residence as a result of such events, is unable or, owing to such fear, is unwilling to return to it.”

Once designated a refugee, these Africans are entitled to international protections and cannot be sent back home to the source of danger. Otherwise, these people are considered migrants, people who may be seeking better economic opportunities. There is a debate as to whether people fleeing the effects of climate change are in fact, refugees.

“The umbrella term migrant is no longer fit for purpose when it comes to describing the horror unfolding in the Mediterranean,” wrote Barry Malone, the online editor of Al Jazeera English, in a blog post. “It has evolved from its dictionary definitions into a tool that dehumanises and distances, a blunt pejorative.”

Al Jazeera has decided to use the term “refugee” to describe people crossing the Mediterranean.

“Migrant is a word that strips suffering people of voice,” Malone concluded. “Substituting refugee for it is – in the smallest way – an attempt to give some back,” he added.

As the Independent recently reported, anti-immigrant sentiment, xenophobia and intolerance are a part of the discourse in Europe. European newspapers use the terms “siege,” “invasion” and “horde” when describing African refugees, and Europe characterized as a “war zone” as “marauding” foreigners “swarm” the borders.

The scale of the refugee crisis is daunting, with 100,000 people arriving in the EU in July alone. According to the Financial Times, the immigration crisis is creating divisions among the European nations, with Germany, taking in 40 percent of asylum seekers, while Britain is taking 4 percent and France 8 percent. In France, the neo-fascist National Front Party, capi-

AA Rare Conviction of Killer Cops in South Africa: South African court found eight Black policemen guilty of

murdering a Mozambican taxi driver by handcuffing him to a police van and dragging him two hundred yards behind the vehicle. Then, the cops beat the already badly injured man to death at the police station.A cell phone camera video of the dragging of the victim, Mido Macia, went viral on the internet, back in February of 2013. The murder convictions of the eight South African police are unusual – as they would be in the United States – because South African cops also operate under a culture of impunity. South African police are as feared, today, as under the apartheid regime that slipped into history in 1994. And, just as under White rule, the main victims of police violence are the poor and powerless. The South African police now serve the Black-led ruling party, the ANC. South African police are as feared, today, as under the apartheid regime. - Glen Ford for Black Agenda Report

DON’T FORTGET TO VOTE SEPT. 10TH! talizing on the anti-immigrant sentiment, is dragging the nation’s politics to the extreme right.

In Israel, officials began releasing nearly 1,200 refugees

from the Holot detention facility in the Negev desert, without a place to go according to UPI. They are prohibiting from working in Tel Aviv and Eliat, where many former detainees live. Around 50,000 African migrants live in Israel, typically from Eritrea and Sudan, and they face detention, racism, police brutality and other humiliating conditions. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, whose rightwing Likud party as benefited from scapegoating of Africans as infiltrators, said that the Africans “threaten the country’s Jewish character.”

Meanwhile, in Spain, the death of a Senegalese man during a police raid in the beach town of Salou led to a peaceful antiracism protest of 200 people. The man had fallen from a third-floor balcony during the raid. Approximately 10 percent of Spain’s population of 46 million are foreigners, and immigrants face a particularly tough time with heavy handed police tactics. Further, the economic recovery has not reached the poor, who revert to the underground economy as unemployment exceeds 22 percent. Human rights groups are demanding that undocumented immigrants receive free health care.

In June, EU leaders decided to

relocate 40,000 migrants from Italy and Greece to other EU

nations. -David Lowe, ATLANTA BLACK STAR

Mrs. Boynton Robinson (inset) and in larger photo where she was injured during “Bloody Sunday” in 1965.

Amelia Boynton Robinson, Civil Rights Activist Dies at 104 BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Amelia Boynton Robinson, 104, who helped lead the 1965 "Bloody Sunday" voting rights march and was the first Black woman to run for Congress in Alabama, died Wednesday (August 26) at a Montgomery hospital, surrounded by family and friends. She suffered a stroke in July.

Mrs. Boynton Robinson was among those beaten during the march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma in March 1965 that became known as Bloody Sunday. State troopers teargassed and clubbed marchers as they tried to cross the bridge. A newspaper photo featuring an unconscious Boynton Robinson drew wide attention.

"Civil rights was her life," said her son Bruce.

Fifty years after Bloody Sunday, President Obama held her hand as she was pushed across the bridge in a wheelchair during a commemoration.

Mrs. Boynton Robinson, who helped organize the Selma-toMontgomery march, asked the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to come to Selma to galvanize the local community.

Health Matters

Challenger Community News • September 2, 2015

Apples: The Live Longer Fruit!

Of all of the fruits we eat, apples are the best source of pectin, a natural fiber that has several health benefits.

Apples also contain phyto-

chemicals, quercetin, tannins, and antioxidants, all of which have different healthy properties. Below is a list of the tophree benefits of making

ATTORNEYS

ELECTRICIAN

Terrence D. McKelvey Attorney at Law 181 Franklin St. Suite 101 (716) 847-2606

Empire Electric (716) 634-0330

AUTO Ben’s Downtown Tire 50 Sycamore (cor. Elm) (716) 856-1066 or 894-1483

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

AUTO – USED CARS TNT Used Autos 856 East Ferry St. 863-0400*602-0269 * 553-7285

BOUTIQUES Simply Plus Boutique & More 943 Broadway Ave. (716) 906-1612 or 605-6918

CELL PHONES Ansar Cellular Communications & Fragrance Store 1371 Fillmore @ E. Utica (716) 884-2373

FLORISTS Maureen’s Flower Market 441 Ellicott St. * 852-4600

HAIR SUPPLY Main Hair & Beauty Supply 3067 Main St. (716) 862-4247

HOME/PROPERTY INSPECTION Majadi Enterprises Inc.

(716) 316-7776

majadienterprise@aol.com

INSURANCE Able Insurance Jeff Moore/Broker 1798 Main St. *883-5212

TAILORS Ann Rhod’s Tailoring 3185 Bailey Ave. (716) 838-5633

For More Info: advertising@thechallengernews.com 881-1051

apples a standard part of your daily diet.

1. Apples improve the bowels. Pectin is a source of dietary fiber and a very handy nutrient to have in one’s diet. Apples have the highest concentration of pectin which is helpful in treating constipation, diarrhea, and generally improving the health of the bowels. Studies have also found that apple pectin reduces the incidence of colon tumors, and that has been demonstrated to reduce the risk of colon cancer.

2. Apples lower cholesterol.

A study on nutrition and heart disease found that eating three apples a day for three months can help you to drop your cholesterol by at least 20 points.

3. Apples reduce the risk of cancer. Apples do not stop at merely preventing colon cancer...apple eating prevents cancer of the prostate and lung, as well as other parts of the body.

DID YOU KNOW…That M&M’s candies contain harmful, petroleum-based, artificial dyes that can trigger hyperactivity in sensitive children? M&M’s are already made without most of those dyes in Europe.

Why are they being made with cheaper, controversial ingredients in North America?

Jes Breathe

WHAT IS CANCER? hat is cancer? Although W there are many kinds of cancers, ALL cancers start

because abnormal cells grow out of control. This dis-ease is a large family that has Gina potential DAVIS to invade or spread to other parts of the body. Many cancers can be prevented by not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, not drinking too much alcohol, eating plenty of vegetables, fruits and whole grains, not eating too much red meat, and avoiding too much exposure to sunlight. The most common types of cancer in males are lung, prostate, colorectal, and stomach cancer. In females breast, colorectal, lung and cervical.

September is: Childhood (Gold), Gynecological (Teal,Teal/White,Peach) Leukemia (Orange)/Lymphoma (Lime), Ovarian (Teal), Prostate (Lt. Blue) & Thyroid (Teal/Pink/Blue) cancer Awareness Month.

Gynecological (aka “silent killer”) is an uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells that originate from the reproductive organs.

There are several types which include cervical, gestational trophoblastic dis-ease (GTD), primary peritoneal, ovarian, uterine/endometrial, and vaginal and vulvar cancers.

For more information on these dis-eases go to www. jesbreathe.info or tune in on our monthly “Journey Calls” every first Wednesday of each month 760-984-1000 Pin # 649957.

Gina Davis Is Founder Of The Jes Breathe Cancer Awarness Group In Buffalo, New York.

DID YOU KNOW...

The Khoe-San people of southern Africa carry a genetic mutation that reduces pregnancy complications, according to a study in the journal PLOS Genetics. The gene variant can alter the formation of the placenta during the early stages of pregnancy, resulting in larger, healthier babies and reducing the likelihood of pre-eclampsia, a disorder that can be fatal.

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Rev. and Mrs. Harris, Others, Featured in the New York Times

Rev. Vernal Harris, Pastor of Prince of Peace Temple Church Of God in Christ, in Buffalo, and his wife Narseary, were featured in the August 25th edition of the New York Times. The title of the article, “a Racial Divide on Hospice Care,” deals with doctors and clergy members trying to calm Black suspicions about Hospice Care. At the root of the resistance researchers say, is a toxic distrust of the heath care system . The Harris family, who lost two sons to sickle cell disease, are using their good hospice experience to share their stories with friends and church members. Mrs. Harris has even enlisted the wives of Black pastors in WNY known as the First Ladies, to counter negative views about palliataive care. Camille Wicher, VP for clinical operations at Roswell, who has studied African Americans’ end-of-life choices, was also quoted in the article, as was First Lady Joyce Badger of Bethesda World Harvest International Church. “The power of knowledge that we’ve gained is really going to help our community,” she said.

Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor presents

MUSEUM OPEN HOUSE DAYS

(No Admission Charge)

Saturday, September 5 and Saturday, September 26, 2015 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Join us in the Corridor for a step back into time!

Michigan Street Baptist Church 511 Michigan Avenue Nash House Museum 36 Nash Street Colored Musicians Club Museum 125 Broadway WUFO 1080AM Radio Station 143 Broadway For more information, call 716-259-8888 or contact info@michiganstreetbuffalo.org

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FAITH & FAMILY

Challenger Community News • September 2, 2015

Black Tie Event to Honor Deacon’s Legislator Steed Alliance The St. John’s African Methodist Episcopal Church Lay Organization is sponsoring a Black Tie Dinner, honoring Niagara Falls Legislator Owen Steed, on September 11. The Dinner will be held at the Four Points Sheraton, 7001 Buffalo Ave. Niagara Falls N.Y. The donation is $40. Please RSVP by Sept 4 to 2855973 or 285-6432.

WORSHIP THIS WEEK

Banquet

The Annual Deacon’s Alliance Banquet will be held at the New Golden Nugget, 2046 Fillmore Avenue on Friday September 18 at 6 p.m. For Tickets call 885- 6348.

Mt. Moriah to Observe 55th Year Bible Facts – Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, 400 Northampton Street, the Rev Jeffrey Chambless, pastor, will celebrate its 55th Anniversary, Sunday Sept.20. The Celebration will begin during the morning Worship hour at 11 a.m. Brunch will be served following the service. A special Tribute will be given to the Founding Pastor, the late Rev. Anthony Benson Sr. The Church Fellowship Hall will be named in his honor at 1 p.m. Special guests for the 4 p.m. service will be Pastor Timothy Brown and the Mt. Zion Baptist Church, from Niagara Falls, N.Y. Mother Villa Jones, is Program Chair. For more information, call the Church at 885-8778.

*The Bible contains 1189 chapters. *The Old Testament has 929 chapters and the New Testament has 260 chapters. *The longest chapter in the Bible is Psalm 119; and the shortest is Psalm 117. *The longest verse is Esther 8:9, the shortest is John 11:35.

FAITH & FAMILY

Challenger Community News • September 2, 2015

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Was Buff City Hoops A Victim of Politricks?

A

RETIREMENT BANQUET In Honor Of Pastor William A. Bunton Jr.

Sixty Years as a Servant of God to the People Saturday, October 17,2015 Adams Mark Hotel 120 Church Street 6:00 p.m. Start Donation $75.00 To Purchase Tickets Call Antioch Baptist Church 1327 Fillmore Avenue

716-895-0198

Congratulations to Mother Jessie Jones

on your 70th Birthday from Your Children Jada, Rod, Angie and her Grand Children. She is also a member and mother of Elim Christian Fellowship.

DON’T FORGET TO VOTE THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 10!

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!!

funny thing happened on the way to the Buff City Hoops Championship games last Saturday.

There was no place to park.

“Do Not Stand” signs were posted along Best Street from close to Jefferson Avenue almost to Main.

“Who would do this?” remarked one parent who had to park a few blocks away on a side street. “I’ve never in all my years seen anything like it.”

On any given Saturday during little league football season, there are countless cars parked on both sides of Best Street near the stadium. Never has this writer seen a “No Standing” sign posted.

Why now? There was nothing going on in the street. Masten Park sits on elevated ground. There were no parades, no festival, no 5-k

run…and hardly any traffic.

Would the city have allowed those signs - signed “Commissioner of Police” - to be posted and enforced (tickets!) during a youth hockey tournament near an ice rink in South Buffalo? Or a soccer game in North Buffalo?

Is this what we can expect this fall when the kids play football at Wiley Stadium??

Think about it.

What a slap in the face to young people and parents from this community. What a callous disregard for the hard work of those who labored to give our children an alternative to Gus Macker – after the PAL organization decided not to renew its contract; and the city essentially allowed it to be taken away.

And there were other “circumstantial “ indications that “something is not right in

the state of the Black community.” ; that politricks has somehow sunk to a new low, leaving even the children vulnerable to its toxicity.

-Still We RiseLooking west from Jefferson, Best Street looked deserted, like nothing was going on, until you came upon Masten Park and saw all those beautiful young people in white, yellow and purple “Buff City Hoops” T shirts ‘ballin’ for the title of champion. What a vision!

Despite the “No Standing Sign Saga” and some of the missing teams, it was a wonderful event. Everything for the youth – males and females - was provided free thanks to the kind donations and support of members and supporters.

Last Friday morning, the day prior to the championship games, a press conference took place at offices of BAK USA headquarters located in the Compass East Building at 425 Michigan Avenue where members of the Buff City Hoops organization,

along with founder Betty Jean Grant, were presented with 14 new Bak Board Tablets.

The kindness and sincerity of the company’s visionary CEO, JP Bak, was acknowledged by Legislator Grant. BAK quipped that although in basketball, hitting the back board is not looked upon favorably, perhaps after the championship and the awarding of the BAK tablets, “hoops will be ok, but ‘BAK’ board better!”

In addition to Mrs. Grant, Buff City Hoops officers include Murray Holeman, president; Jocelyn O’Steen, Vice President; Russell King, Treasurer; and Dwayne Ferguson, Sergeant of Arms.

The organizers and supporters should be proud – and commended for a job well done. –a.b.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Godfather Promotions Returns to Buffalo’s Entertainment Scene

ON STAGE

Russell Thompkins Jr. and the New Stylistics Will be Godfather Promotions First Show in Four Years

D

ane R. Smith remembers it almost to the minute when he decided to leave the concert promotion business.

“It was June 12, 2011,” he said. “The show was the Ohio Players.” It would be his last.

A serious car accident which left him disabled for six months was a key contributing factor. Dane is still receiving treatment for that collision.

“I told myself I was going to retire…I threw away everything (promotion related) – phone books, contracts, other documents etc.”

But as the years went by, he said people kept asking him when he was doing another show.

Plus, he said, very few old school concerts were coming to Buffalo….”seemed like everything stopped and they were going to different cities…but not here.”

“And to be honest,” he continued, “the more I was away the DANE R. SMITH: GODFATHER PROMOTIONS more I missed it.”

That’s when he decided to start working on the upcoming show. “ His “Halloween Musical Love Affair” featuring Russell Thompkins Jr. and the New Stylistics, will take place at the Tralf, Saturday, Oct. 31 for two shows at 7 and 10:30 p.m. Tickets are $50 in advance and $55 at the door. It will also feature popular local musical greats, The Old School B-Boys and special guest Juanita Duncan. God Father Promotions own Mrs. Dee Paris will host the show.

Dane admits it was not easy initially.

“I was rusty,” he recalls. “Not only did I have to get back into it mentally…but I’d given everything away like contracts and contacts.”

A local business he said, came to the rescue.

“The Inkspot played a big part in my comeback,” he said.

“Fortunately they kept everything (from work they’d done for him in the past) and they also designed everything for me…

Inkspot is the best thing that ever happened to Godfather…”

“I feel spectacular about the show coming up,” he continued.

The legendary lead singer, Russell Thompkins Jr., hasn’t played here in over 30 years he pointed out.

“Russell was the voice of the Stylistics,” he mused. “the voice everybody tried to imitate.”

Bufflalo is “almost like home” to Thompkins, he added. Lenny Silver of Amherst Records was the New Stylistics original manager and produced the album “Round 2.” Lenny’s godson Chris Biehler of Forever More Records, currently manages and produces the group.

“Godfather is back!” Dane said with a smile. “I’m retired from the plant and this is my job now. I’m a full time concert promoter!”

“Russell said this is a show you’ll always remember and never forget….and I say if you’ve seen the rest now come see the best!”

Tickets are on sale at Brook Brother Central Park Cleaners.

Dane pointed out that all the tickets sold at Brooks are reserved seats without a service charge as a “give back to the community.” Brooks he said, is Godfather promotions one and only sponsor.

Challenger Community News • September 2, 2015

Burning Books is commemorating its 4th birthday and the 44th anniversary of the Attica Prison uprising with New African saxophonist Bilal Suni Ali on Thursday, September 10 at 7 p.m., 420 Connecticut Street.Bilal is known for his extensive performances with Gil Scott-Heron and for having been a co-defendant of several Black freedom fighters . Bilal will be performing some original music on his sax and speaking about the Attica Prison Uprising and the New African struggle.

Additional tickets are available at Doris Records, the Tralf Box Office and al Ticket Master locations. In Rochester tickets are available at Classie’s Bar & Grill, 685 Thurston Rd. or call (585)370-2206.

For all other information call 602-8150.

ALEMAEDAE THEATRE in cooperation with Vincent Scarsella presents the world premiere of “Hate Crime,” written and by Vincent Scarsella and directed by Phil Davis Sr., Sunday, Sept.

13 at 6 p.m. in the Lackawanna High School Auditorium, 550 Martin Rd., Lackawanna, N.Y. Advance tickets $20, available online at www.atpgalaxy.com & $30 at the door. 602-6253 for group rates.

“Friday Night Laughs” Two Year Anniversary Best of The Best Show, Friday, September 4 for One show at 9p.m., The Tralf featuring Rip Micheals and Capone, host of Showtime at the Apollo. Also featured on the night’s show are comedians Smokey Suarez and Rob Stapleton.Tickets $35 per person in advance and are on sale at the Tralf Box office (716-852-2860), at all Tickemaster Outlets or online at www.ticketmaster. comTickets can also be purchased at Doris Records, 286 East Ferry Street and the Oakk Room Restaurant, 1435 Main Street. *Keith Sweat & SWV in Concert September 25 at Kleinhan’s Music Hall.8188899 or 479-9911 for info. *Natalie Cole, September 19 @ 8 p.m., Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino; ticketmaster 1-800-745-3000 or SenecaCasinos.com

“Blues of the Decade” The Salvation Army presents

“Blues of the Decade” featuring Buffalo’s own Foxie Brown (above) & The Blues Trio Friday, September 11 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Salvation Army 960 Main Street (near High St.)/ Admission is $10 per person.

The day will include breakfast 8:30 – 9:30 a.m., Lunch 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., and entertainment from 10 a.m.

– 2 p.m. There will be giveaways and plenty of fun! For more info and tickets call 888-6261.

*STEVIE WONDER Thursday

Nov. 19 to perform live at the First Niagara Center in downtown Buffalo! Tickets are available at Livenation. com, Tickets.com and at the First Niagara Center Box Office or call 1-888-223-6000.

ENTERTAINMENT

Challenger Community News • September 2, 2015

PAUL ROBESON THEATRE ANNOUNCES ITS 2015 – 2016 48TH SEASON The Artistic Director Paulette D. Harris of the African American Cultural Center’s Paul Robeson Theatre opens its 48th Season with a rousing selection of theatrical productions.

Back by popular demand the season will open with How I Got Over directed and written by Paulette D. Harris. The show will run from September 18 – October 11 with some of Buffalo’s fabulous gospel singers celebrating the life and music shared by some of Western New York most beloved oldies but goodies gospel singers and their powerhouse pianist.

November 13 – December 16th the PRT will return with an outstanding musical Stompin at the Savoy directed by the talented thespian Mary Craig, written by Ron Stacker Thompson. Stompin will bring back the era of the Cotton Club and Savoy Ballroom of the 1930’s and 40’s you will experience the bubblin’ brown sugar revue.

A true story exploring the improbable bond that is formed between these drastically different, influential cultural icons PRT proudly presents Fetch Clay, Make Man by Will Power, Directed by our veteran artist Lavern Clay opens February 5 – February 28th. You will enjoy the two very interesting characters with very different backgrounds similar points of view.

Racial riots are not new to our community but we learn so much from each as portrayed in the production Detroit 67” written by Dominique Morisseau, Directed by Buffalo State College Professor Aaron Moss explosive moment in our history – the race riots that ravaged the city of Detroit in 1967.

Come join and support our theatre. Go online at www.aaccbuffalo.org for information on special rates, and discount coupons. Information can also be picked up at the Center (350 Masten Avenue).

Projects such as Scratch Night at the Robeson – A night showcasing works-in-progress by emerging artists from a wide range of cultural arts disciplines. There will be live performances, audience talkbacks, vendors, and networking opportunities after every performance. Anyone interested in performing or vending please contact the e-mail address below.

For additional information on the 48th Paul Robeson Theatre Subscription Season or special projects/and offers please call 884-2013 or e-mail us at paulrobesontheatrebuffalo@gmail. com

VOTE Thursday Sept. 10 CORRECTION!

1.75L - $20.99+tax August 26 thru Sept. 30

9

On Primary Day, Septemer 10 Vote for La’Mone Gibson For Masten District Council Member Because...

If given the opportunity, he will work toward restructuring an easier process for our seniors to receive grants and create new resources for neighborhood rehabilitation, education and jobs that will result in a revival of the Masten District. He will work toward encouraging residents of all ages to dedicate themselves to press for the goal of community ownership through entrepreneurship and property upkeep. He will organize a team of professionals, community leaders, and stakeholders working together on target areas for development within Masten. LaMone is the fresh energy and unbiased voice that the community of Masten needs.

LaMone contends that it's time to do something different so that Masten can see different results!

La’Mone is.....

A Youth Minister at Bethel AME Church where he works with youth ages 12 and up. He is President of the 1st Episcopal District’s 4,000 strong Young People’s Department.

A Gang Specialist with the Buffalo Peace Makers, an organization through which he promotes peace and safety throughout the City of Buffalo. He is also a Counselor at one of the City’s Alternative Schools. As founder of “Saving Our Sons”, a youth mentoring program, La’Mone is mentoring and providing positive role models to over 150 young men, ages 12-18. LaMone is also a member of the board of directors for the CAO, board of trustees for Maritime Charter High School (Alum) and a recent graduate of Canisius College.

La’Mone Gibson is already a Community Servant.

Let’s make him OUR Community Servant.

VOTE 5A ON ELECTION DAY!

10

Challenger Community News • September 2, 2015

A BIG Thank You!

Images from Librarian Sandra Williams Bush’s retirement reception (top) with “Big Mama Boo,” Legislator Betty Jean Grant and Sharon Holley ;(bottom left) with the legendary “Mr. Library” - William “Bill” Miles; and young supporters(right) Third Eye Photos

Dear Editor: I would like to extend a big thank you to those attended my retirement reception on Friday, August 21 at the Frank E. Merriweather, Jr. Library. Also, I recognize that there were others in the community who would have liked to attend but had other commitments; thank you to one and all for your well-wishes.

I would like to thank Demone Smith, Sharon Holley, Linda Rizzo, Joy Testa Cinquino and Director Mary Jean Jakubowski for their part in coordinating and putting together the reception.

Above all, much love to my daughter, Libby, who was the reason I became a public Librarian.

Many in the community have asked why I chose to retire now. To that my answer is that I didn’t choose the time, the time chose me. I am pleased that I was able to leave the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library on a positive note and with a positive effect on those who came into the library. It has been my honor to serve and represent the community for 30 years.

What next? Look for me to continue working in the community and participating in community events; as both a performer and concerned citizen. Once again, thanks to all for your support throughout the years.

Sandra Williams Bush Retired Branch Manager Frank E, Merriweather, Jr. Library

Buff City Hoops is in Buffalo to stay!

On a day that could be described as being nothing but perfect, the 1st. Annual Buff City Hoops basketball tournament got underway early Saturday morning in Masten Park. Hundreds of youths from all across Buffalo converged in Masten Park to play competitive games of 5-5 basketball. The parents were there, the coaches and the referees as well as a small but hard working group of community leaders who were not going to sit around let the children in basketball be denied an organized basketball tournament this year.

This group of Buff City Hoops officials, led by Buff City Hoops founder, Betty Jean Betty Jean Grant and president, Murray Holman, put forth a first class tournament that filled the GRANT void left by the departure of the Gus Macker tournaments from the city. There were several all girls teams that played under the guidance of coach and referee, Principal Cecelie Owens and Gina Davis from the Jes Breathe organization. This year, due to the postponement of the Gus Macker games, both tournaments were held on the same weekend. According to the Grand Island organizer, Corey McGowan, that will not happen next year. The Gus Macker 3-3 basketball tournament is going back to their original 2 days of tournaments in June. Next year, Buffalo City Hoops will continue to be played in August and we will continue to have the community centers and outdoor basketball elimination games where the winners will advance to the Buffalo City Hoops’ 2nd. Annual Grand Finale tournament in August, 2016.

A special note to the community: the Buff City Hoops organizers thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your well wishes and financial support allowed us to make life a little bit brighter and happier for many of our youth. It was for only one day but what a day it was!

Meet Zandra,

Back To School Uniform Donations The 2015 -2016 school year is approaching. In recent years, it is a known fact that many children don’t attend school the first week due to the lack of proper clothing.

The Young Parents Campus (YPC), program of True Community Development Corporation has adopted a local elementary school to donate uniforms to this year.

Donations of new or gently used Navy Blue and Khaki Pants as well as Burgundy Polo shirts, sizes 4T -18 Juniors, should be dropped off at 594 Winslow Ave. Monday – Friday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. We are looking to give uniforms to assist at least 30 students. Call 895-7019 for further information.

"The Allstate MWEE program offered me the resources and support I needed to really learn what it means to be "in" business.

I was partnered with an amazing mentor that guided me through many of the fine details of building my brand. I learned how to compete, how to find my voice and to dream big!"

Zandra Cunningham, 2014 Grad

Owner of Zandra Natural Bath + Body ALLSTATE MINORITY AND WOMEN EMERGING ENTREPRENEURS PROGRAM Specialized help for women and minority business owners Now enrolling for class of 2016 For more info, contact Alex at mgt-cel@buffalo.edu or 716-885-5715

11

Challenger Community News • September 2, 2015

That Was the Week that Was! B

efore Jon Stewart and the “Daily Show” there was David Frost and “That Was the Week that Was”. For those of you who need a refresher and for those for whom this is historic data, here’s a brief overview of the program. Originally produced in the United States from 1963-65, TW3 was a pioneering satirical and comedic television show. The broadcast lampooned topical events, which were all the “buzz” the previous week. A British import, it was hosted by British newsman, David Frost and also featured musical skits. Buffalo’s search for a Superintendent has provided more than its share of news “vignettes” worthy of parody by this legendary program. Yet even as we successfully concluded the search last week several events reminded me of TW3 and the biting commentary the program might have created with this material.

The selection of Dr. Kriner Cash as Superintendent ended months of uncertainty and concern about the leadership of the district. In an unprecedented vote, seven of the nine Board members unanimously confirmed Dr. Cash for the position. Two Board members were not in attendance at the special meeting called for that purpose. Mrs. Kapsiak, disabled by recent surgery, arrived at the meeting too late for the vote but in time for the Press Conference and to affirm her support for Dr. Cash. Mr. Paladino was on vacation in Barbara Seals Paris. Members were invigorated and encouraged by this rare achievement Nevergold of Board cohesiveness and the near universal consensus that we indeed have the right man for this time of travail. Our euphoria was short lived.

Not one to let distance and a vacation interfere with his First Amendment rights, Mr. Paladino fired off an email in which he accused New York Education Commissioner MaryEllen Elia of being a “rookie” who had “rammed the new Superintendent up our …….”. He threatened Dr. Cash and promised to fashion a “career-ending casket” if he “messed with me”. Can’t you just envision the fun that TW3 would have with that image? Even the Buffalo News could not resist its own parody of this latest Paladino insult.

The Sunday morning edition featured the Paladino email in graphic detail followed later in the week by an editorial suggesting that Mr. Paladino lived in “Paladinoland” a mythical place where all things Paladino are given credence and sanction. The editorial concluded: “To summarize: Do what Paladino says, and the nation will salute; have his (Cash) own ideas, and it’s cemetery time.

Only in Paladinoland – or maybe Trump Tower – is that kind of invective interpreted as normal or acceptable.”

Inexplicably, Mr. Paladino, apparently had second thoughts about the degrading email, and is quoted as saying about Dr. Cash, “I wish him well. I want him to do good.” Pardon my skepticism!

Dr. Cash’s first Board meeting was fairly uneventful (as Board of Education meetings go). Even Mr. Paladino was quietly reflective during most of the meeting. The normal divisions on the Board returned at the end of the meeting, however, when Dr. Harris-Tigg and I presented a resolution and motion for consideration and a vote. Dr. Harris-Tigg’s Resolution called on the Board to define and limit the time Special Counsel, Karl Kristoff spends at the Board meetings; cited concerns about the lack of a formal agreement between Mr. Kristoff and the District and the rising legal costs accruing as a result of the attorney’s routine attendance at the Board meetings. Her arguments were brushed aside and the Resolution was defeated by a 5-3 vote.

My motion called on the Board to end the longstanding silence of the Board as a body and its failure to address Mr. Paladino’s inappropriate behavior and actions. The motion read: “Move that the Board of Education formally, go on the record opposing the ongoing actions/behaviors of Board Member Carl Paladino noting that these actions are willfully counter-productive, un-professional, lacking in civility, harmful to the District and contradict the Board’s Codes of Conduct/Ethics.

Further that the Board acknowledges its members’ roles as District Leaders and role models for our students and the school community in general and as such does not condone behaviors and actions by any member that would communicate the Board’s tolerance of behavior that violates our own Code of Conduct or Code of Ethics.”

As usual, majority Board members continued to respond to this issue with stony silence, deflecting their attention to their cell phones or tablets and ultimately voting the motion down. Surprisingly, even Board President James Sampson, who has been the recipient of numerous Paladino “smear-mails” voted against this motion. In typical style Paladino defended himself saying he had the right to tal TO VOTE!k about any of us, however he pleases, and besides he “tells the truth”.

TW3 would have had a field day with this one.

The final takeaway from all of this is that the Board majority is unconcerned about their hypocritical stance and the messages sent to our children by this failure to act on a matter that mirrors situations they often confront. We require them to obey the Dignity for All Students Act while Board “leaders” are allowed to intimidate, harass and bully with impunity.

DON’T FORGET

TO

VOTE!

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

Too long have others spoken for us.”

- John Russwurm, Freedom’s Journal.

1827 America’s 1st Black Newspaper

advertising@thechallengernews.com

P: 716 881.1051 F: 716

Campaign for Erie County Family Court Judge: Are You Well Informed?

I decided to run for Erie County Family Court Judge for several reasons. I will get to that in a moment. First, I want to inform you that my outstanding team worked very hard to get the word out, gather Petitions with over 2200 voter signatures delivered to the Board of Election on time. Although we fell short of making the ballot, what a strong showing for a first time. Second, I want to thank the people of Buffalo and Erie County who were so very supportive and encouraging during this run for Judge. The positive response from the Inner City of Buffalo (the community where I grew up) which by the way is rapidly changing into an upscale center (come downtown sometime)…..to the KATIE Farmer’s Market of East Auroara, what a welcoming and warm reception we HARROD received. People seemed ready to vote for someone who is understanding of their concerns and is not a “run-of-the-mill” politician. I Will share what we learned about politicians in a moment. During our petition process our team would briefly inform voters throughout the streets of Western New York that I was qualified as a Family Court attorney who has worked exclusively with low and middle income families since graduating from Law School in 1984; specifically helping children and families in Erie County Family Court since 1996.

We informed people that my community service included starting and assisting with After School, Tutoring Programs, Summer Enrichment Camps, helping to provide relief for Katrina victims, distributing food baskets for those in need and participating in clothing and School Supply Give-Aways to name a few of my community efforts over the years. We also informed people about this campaign by going to as many events as possible; opening our Kensington headquarters to the community and providing information through local appearances on TV, Newspaper and Church Services. It was great to see the people of Buffalo and Erie County reaching out to us from all walks of life. Men, women; young, not-so young; union, non-union; every ethnic and cultural background who were interested in voting for a Judge who had real life experience raising her own three children in the City, getting them through school to adulthood and now raising their own children. I also let people know Now, to answer the question of why I decided to run for Family Court Judge; one of our team’s goals was to see our Western New York community well informed about the political process.

Having correct information and being informed is important and so very powerful. Did you know that there is only one seat open in Family Court and it is a brand new seat? Are you aware that Family Court candidates appearing at events or church services might be Democrats or Republicans….do you know who is who? They probably won’t tell you so….shouldn’t you be well informed? You may need to educate yourself by contacting the Erie County Board of Elections.

You have a right to ask questions and to inform yourself in detail about each candidate. Another reason I decided to run was in order to give voters a choice they had not had in the past 50+ years….as there have been no women of color EVER elected to the Erie County Family Court Bench. I ran to give an example to our young people coming up that they can follow their dreams and goals, they can drop the excuses and do whatever God has called them to do in life….they CAN do it! Our children also need to see examples of us taking steps to do what we are telling them to do. Will there be difficulties? Hardships along the way? Of Course. But Try anyway.

I can tell you about some of the difficulties we faced, but it was still worth it all. I can tell you about how unusual politics in Buffalo and Erie County really is….but that will have to wait for another issue. In the meantime, please make sure you are WELL INFORMED on Primary Election Day, Thursday, September 10.

No Time for Petty Politics

Dear Editor: Mayor Byron Brown is the head of the police department. The Police Commissioner serves at the pleasure of the mayor and takes direction or orders from the mayor. On August 29, 2015, the Commissioner had “No Standing” signs posted on Best st. between Jefferson Ave. and Masten Ave. during the hours of 8 a.m.-8p.m. There was no construction or street paving going on Aug. 29th.

There was a scheduled basketball finals event conducted by Buff City Hoops in Masten Park adjacent to Johnny Wiley Stadium on Best between Jefferson and Masten Aves. The “No Standing” signs on Best inconvenience families and friends from normally parking on Best to see their boys and girls play in the Buff City Hoops finals.

Historically year in and year out little league football is played in the park , “No Standing” signs are not posted. Buffalo public schools use Johnny Wiley Park for track&field, football and baseball. “No Standing” signs are not posted by the police Commissioner.

From the information I’ve heard, the Brown administration misused its political power in a petty personal way to harm a political riva, and in the process harmed Black, Latino and White boys and girls by inconveniencing their families and friends with bogus “No Standing” signs.

Hats off to the organizers of Buff City Hoops led by County Legislator Betty Jean Grant and all the brothers, sisters holding up our creativity! roy st.clair

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

• Ad Deadline: Friday 5 p.m.

• Classified Deadline: Thursday 5 p.m.

We respectfully submit that the opinions expressed on the editorial pages of this newspaper are not necessairly those of Challenger Community News Corporation or its advertisers.

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

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

Challenger Community News • September 2, 2015

12

Classified

Challenger Community News • September 2, 2015

13

EM P LOY M EN T Ralph M. Mohr Commissioner

Leonard R. Lenihan Commissioner

OFFICIAL PRIMARY ELECTION NOTICE

Democratic, Republican, Conservative, Green, Working Families, and Independence Parties to be held in the County of Erie on Thursday, September 10, 2015, from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. for the purpose of nominating candidates for the following offices: Erie County City of Buffalo City of Lackawanna City of Tonawanda Town of Amherst Town of Aurora Town of Cheektowaga Town Town Town Town Town Town

of of of of of of

Clarence Grand Island Hamburg Marilla North Collins West Seneca

Erie County City of Buffalo City of Tonawanda Town of Alden Town of Aurora Town of Brant Town of Clarence Town of Grand Island Town of Hamburg Town of Holland Town of Marilla Town of North Collins Erie County City of Buffalo City of Lackawanna City of Tonawanda Town Town Town Town Town Town

of Alden of Aurora of Clarence of Grand Island of Hamburg of Lancaster

Erie County Erie County Legislator City of Tonawanda Town of Aurora Town of Cheektowaga Town Town Town Town Town

of of of of of

Grand Island Hamburg Holland Lancaster Newstead

Erie County Erie County Legislator City of Buffalo City of Tonawanda Town Town Town Town Town Town

of Alden of Amherst of Aurora of Boston of Clarence of Hamburg

Erie County Erie County Legislator City of Buffalo City of Tonawanda Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town

of Alden of Amherst of Aurora of Clarence of Eden of Grand Island of Hamburg of Lancaster of Newstead

DEMOCRATIC CONTESTS

Family Court Judge Council Member Fillmore District, Council Member Masten District Council President, Councilman 4th Ward City Judge Councilman Town Justice Supervisor, Councilman, Town Superintendent of Highways Town Justice Town Justice Councilman, Town Justice Supervisor, Councilman, Town Clerk Councilman, Town Clerk, Town Justice Supervisor, Councilman, Town Superintendent of Highways

REPUBLICAN CONTESTS

Family Court Judge Council Member Delaware District* City Judge, Councilmember 4th Ward Councilman Town Justice Councilman, Town Superintendent of Highways Supervisor, Town Justice Councilman, Town Justice Town Justice Councilman Supervisor, Councilman Town Justice, Town Superintendent of Highways

CONSERVATIVE CONTESTS

Family Court Judge Council Member Delaware District* Mayor, Council President City Judge, Councilmember 3th Ward, Councilmember 4th Ward Supervisor, Councilman Town Justice Town Justice Councilman, Town Justice Town Justice Supervisor, Councilman, Town Clerk

GREEN CONTESTS

Family Court Judge 5th District, 8th District* President of the Common Council*, City Attorney*, Councilmember 1st Ward*, Councilmember 2nd Ward*, Councilmember 3rd Ward*, Councilmember 4th Ward* Town Justice Supervisor*, Councilman*, Town Superintendent of Highways* Town Justice Councilman*, Town Justice Councilman* Supervisor*, Councilman*, Town Clerk* Supervisor*, Councilman*

WORKING FAMILIES CONTESTS

Family Court Judge 5th District, 8th District Council Member Niagara District* City Judge, President of the Common Council, Councilmember 1st Ward*, Councilmember 2nd Ward, Councilmember 3rd Ward, Councilmember 4th Ward Councilman* Councilman Town Justice Councilman* Town Justice Town Justice

INDEPENDENCE CONTESTS

Family Court Judge 4th District Council Member Fillmore District* City Judge, President of the Common Council, City Attorney*, Councilmember 1st Ward, Councilmember 2nd Ward, Councilmember 4th Ward Councilman Councilman Town Justice Town Justice Councilman, Town Clerk Supervisor, Councilman, Town Justice Town Justice Supervisor, Councilman, Town Clerk Supervisor*, Councilman

*-Write-In Contest All Polling Locations in Erie County will be open for voting from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Candidate names and polling locations are available at 858-7821 or elections.erie.gov.

Musician Wanted Unity Baptist Church Form More Info Please Call 716-380-1891 ECMC Peer-Req’d experience: Working with people with lived experience with MH Two years + experience with psychiatric hospitals.

Bi-lingual a plus.

Resumes to HR, WNYIL 3108 Main Street Buffalo NY 14214. EOE

EMMETT TILL continued

sands attended his funeral or viewed his casket and images of his mutilated body were published in Black-oriented magazines and newspapers, rallying popular Black support and white sympathy across the U.S. Intense scrutiny was brought to bear on the condition of Black civil rights in Mississippi, with newspapers around the country critical of the state. Although initially local newspapers and law enforcement officials decried the violence against Till and called for justice, they soon began responding to national criticism by defending Mississippians, which eventually transformed into support for the killers.

In September 1955, Bryant and Milam were acquitted of Till’s kidnapping and murder. Protected against double jeopardy, Bryant and Milam publicly admitted in an interview with Look magazine that they killed Till. The case was officially reopened by the United States Department of Justice in 2004. As part of the investigation, the body was exhumed and autopsied resulting in a positive identification. He was reburied in a new casket, which is the standard practice in cases of body exhumation. His original casket was donated to the Smithsonian Institution.

The trial of Bryant and Milam attracted a vast amount of press attention. Till’s murder is noted as a pivotal event motivating the African-American Civil Rights Movement.

Events surrounding Emmett Till’s life and death, according to historians, continue to resonate, and some writers have suggested that almost every story about Mississippi returns to Till, or the region in which he died, in “some spiritual, homing way”.Though it has been 60 years since Till’s killing, his killing still resonates with other families of color today, including the relatives of Trayvon Martin Michael Brown, Tamir Rice and countless others.

Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority Serving the Niagara Region

Jump Start Your Career

Body Shop, Building Maintenance, Electricians, Garage Mechanics and Technicians

The NFTA is currently looking for qualified applicants seeking steady employment, good starting pay with guaranteed increases along with a comprehensive benefit package to work in a clean, safe shop.

Interested individuals may download an application at www.nfta.com or stop in at our Open House, Saturday, September 19th, 9 am – 12 noon. Comprehensive Skills Tests will be administered at 12 noon for interested applicants.

Cold Spring Bus Maintenance Office 1581 Michigan Avenue 2nd floor, Buffalo, NY 14209 EOE

BUFFALO & ERIE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Please check out our website at:

http://www.buffalolib.org/ content/employment-opportunities/job-postings

CONSTRUCTION

Housing/ Apartments / Rooms

HOME FOR SALE East Side Home For Sale.

Double. 716-983-0540.

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

(716)818-3410.

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBIC HEARING City of Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency Request for Proposal The City of Buffalo (“City”), through the Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency (“BURA”), is seeking proposals through the federal HOME Investment Partnership Program to assist in the development of affordable housing projects in the City of Buffalo. Through this program, activities have been undertaken to enhance ongoing neighborhood revitalization efforts. For the funding period covered by this application the City will assess proposals received that address the goals outlined in the City’s Consolidated Plan.

Applicants must be incorporated for-profit or non-profit entities to undertake affordable housing activities within the boundaries of the City of Buffalo.

It is the policy of BURA, that all local Minority/Women Business Enterprises (M/WBE’s) be encouraged to submit proposals.

BURA continues to ensure that all locally owned M/WBE’s are afforded the maximum opportunity to participate as Applicants or Sub-Applicants in the provision of goods and services for BURA. BURA encourages the award of at least thirty percent (30%) of the total dollar value of this project directly or indirectly to M/WBE’s.

Proposal Submission Deadline: September 25, 2015 at 4:00 p.m. Request for Proposal submissions are due to:

Yvonne C. McCray, Director of Housing

City of Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency

65 Niagara Square

Room 315 City Hall

Buffalo, N.Y. 14202 RE: City of Buffalo HOME Investment Partnership Program RFP Submission (No. 2015-1H) A full copy of the Request for Proposal can be picked up in 315 City Hall or 920 City Hall, 65 Niagara Square Buffalo NY 14202, the Central Library, 1 Lafayette Square, Buffalo NY 14203 and http://www.city-buffalo.com/BuraBids or http://www. city-buffalo.com/bids .

14

Challenger Community News • September 2, 2015

RADNEY’S SPORTS UPDATE

NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS

SUN/ 8/23

MON 8/24

TUES 8/25

WED 8/26 THURS 8/27 FRI 8/28 SAT 8/29

GET READY FOR THE RIDE! Bills Defeat Steelers 43 – 19

L

et’s get right to it.

Like I said back in April 2015, Tyrod Taylor WILL BE THE MID-539 MID-588 MID-781 MID-068 MID-515 MID-900 MID-800

BUFFALO Bills Starting quarterback for the upcoming season.

3-WAY

He has done nothing to lose his position and E.J. Manuel has EVE-138 EVE-331 EVE-516 EVE-287 EVE-739 EVE-299 EVE-775 shown what good coaching can do for a young quarterback. E.J. is playing with confidence and his techniques of turning his hips has helped his MID- 2467 MID -5221 MID - 1366 MID- 6217 MID- 9267 MID -1891 MID-6070 accuracy. Tyrod will be the starter with EVE9984 EVE1773 EVE 2876 EVE2869 EVE9411 EVE2539 EVE-4151

WIN 4 E.J. as back up QB and Matt Cassel will

be among the final cuts and possibly might

return after cuts with a much lower salary.

The Bills will not pay Cassel 5 million dol10-26-31-33-36 3-8-17-20-27 10-11-18-25-33 4-11-14-27-38 3-14-29-35-37 11-12-13-27-38 2-5-12-32-33 lars to be a backup and quite frankly the TAKE 5

third best QB on the team.

I also see Percy Harvin being cut due 3-24-31-33-41-48 #30 15-17-25-33-34-37 #35 to his constant injuries. That would save 11

By GEORGE million dollars which could be used in other LOTTO RADNEY areas.

The offensive line seems to be jelling with Cordy Glenn, Richie Incognito, Eric Wood, rookie left

guard John Miller and Seantrel Henderson. The Bills guards are much quicker and can pull and open up holes like the one HOT TIPS opened for Fred Jackson against the Steelers. This is the best Bills team I’ve seen in over 10 years and look forward to the regular season.

Challenger Hits I think Deonte ThompMidday son and rook800 – Quick Money, Lucky Duckie (straight) ie free agent Lucky Ducky (bx) 786-568-853-518-312-468-014-065-342-781-852-612-754Andre Davis 900 – Billie Bye Bye (bx) will make the 156-801-645-580-234-537-121-065-720-628-435-468-075515 – Lucky Ducky (straight) team as wide 716-214-258-128-813-576-802-201-473-354-169-212-512066 – Zakiyyah’s Rundown, The Number receivers and Book (straight) 469-801-066-980-194-580-075-467-890-944-357-909 Marquise 781 Zakiyyah’s Rundown , The Number Goodwin “Its In The Stars” Book (straight) Capricorn (bx) Billy Bye Bye Sez: and Chris Evening Aquarius -496-235-165-579 Hogan will 108-456-090-108-652 516 - Zakiyyah’s Rundown, Aquarius, Pisces - 056-362-237-694 be cut due to 1447-1645-4444-6888 Aries,( bx) Cancer 482-372-895-718 the tremen“Believe in miracles but 331 – Quick Money, Bee’s Pix (bx) Aries - 561-236-164-469 dous depth at don’t depend on them” 138 - The Number Book (bx) the position.

Taurus -258-231-026-695 Our Special Gemini-495-257-694-508 AUGUST MONTHLY Teams, espeLeo-345-213-157-201 VIBES LUCKIE DUCKIE cially kicker Virgo 385-291-431-170 Dan Carpen754-860-293-147-246Libra -247-723-179-501 202 335 -2015-4444 ter, looks like Scorpio - 453-253-571-597 134-431-143

he has not fully recovered from a groin injury from last season

Sagittarius - 389-701-234-924 648*123*104

and might need to be replaced sometime during the season. GenCapricorn:893-275-342-506 eral Manager Doug Whaley continues to bring in quality players 980-422-809 like veteran defensive tackle Red Bryant to replace Jarius Wynn, 981-989-970-990-080quick money $$$$ THE NUMBER BOOK 800-515-996 who the Bills lost for the season with a knee injury. The Bills 189-809-444 390-196-102-581-752have plenty of depth at so many positions which bodes well for 319-408-378-352-126 886-980-422 late in the season when injuries always seem to occur.

189-444-886-514 322-522-355 I think Leotis McKelvin will be put on PUP list and miss 322-522-412-432-421423 at least first six games of regular season due to broken ankle 800-592-390 suffered in the Miami Dolphin game back on November 13, 394-833-924 2014. His ankle has not healed properly and was reset about 127-909-418 3-Way Winning Numbers Last Year 2014 two weeks ago.

927-313-466 It’s obvious that 2nd round draft pick Ron Darby will be getting help from the safeties during the regular season. He’s 124-550-525 09/10/2014 Evening 8-7-8 not a shutdown cornerback, but will learn trial by fire in a Bills 09/10/2014 Midday 6-8-4 583-269-508 secondary that will be tested quite often due to an outstanding 09/09/2014 Evening 6-9-9 run defense.

09/09/2014 Midday 7-4-9 Grandma’s AUGUST Picks Marcel Dareus is this year’s JUST PAY THE MAN player 09/08/2014 Evening 6-0-7 whose contract is up at the end of the season and will cost the 242-013-890-134-246-387 09/08/2014 Midday 6-3-3 Bills around $60 million , guaranteed totaling over $100 Mil09/07/2014 Evening 6-8-2 Powerful New Energy Shift for Chinese New Year of the Sheep, Lucky lion similar to Miami Dolphins Ndamukong Suh’s monster deal.

09/07/2014 Midday 5-5-2 Number “8.” This year marks 4017 Years of Celebration.

General Manager Doug Whaley will also need to work on line09/06/2014 Evening 9-7-9 “Watch your temper!” backer Nigel Bradham and offensive tackle Cordy Glenn, who 09/06/2014 Midday 0-0-3 the Bills cannot afford to lose via free agency.

09/05/2014 Evening 2-6-0 Best Triple for Month of AUGUST- 333 The Bills are saving 3 million by cutting fan favorite Fred 09/05/2014 Midday 2-9-6 Jackson because Bryce Brown, Karlos Williams, and LeSean Doubles - 772-544-001-488-311-288 09/04/2014 Evening 6-4-9 Mccoy makes for a loaded backfield. Boobie Dixon is an out09/04/2014 Midday 7-7-0 standing special team’s player and will make the team.

09/03/2014 Evening 3-9-1 Bee’s Pix:133 “All My Children” This will definitely be a season to remember and the roller 09/03/2014 Midday 3-2-7 412-225-654-402-201-471-557 coaster ride is just beginning!!! Hang on for the ride!!!!!

09/02/2014 Evening 4-9-3 COMBO: 202-252, 228,140 09/02/2014 Midday 5-3-7 PHOTOCREDIT: JEROME DAVIS

711

807

215

367

Zakiyyah’s Rundown (ZR)

803

410

768

025

YARD SALE

African Cultural Center Yard Sale

Saturday, September 5, 10am - 3pm, 350 Masten Avenue, For more information or if you would like to set up a table please contact Tammy Gaines at the center at 8842013. The cost to get a table is $25.

Community Yard Sale

Saturday, September 12 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., 641 Masten Ave. Tables available $10 to $25; sponsors - Northland CUSHION Block Club & Lincoln UM Church; 8847664 or 462-1080.

ART MAKING DAY!

Wednesday September 2

Saturday September 5

Wednesday September 9

Thursday Sept 10

Saturday Sept 12

Public Hearing: Buffalo Board of Education Members Bishop Michael A. Badger, Lead Applicant of the Proposed ACE Charter School, 4:30 p.m. Buffalo City Hall Room 801

Free Breakfast for Senior Citizens and Masten District Block Club Presidents: 10 a.m., Karen Klimczak Non-Violence Center, 80 Durham Ave.; hosted by Masten District Council Candidate LaMone Gibson; 2359359.

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

Burning Books s 4th birthday and the 44th anniversary of the Attica Prison uprising with New African saxophonist Bilal Suni Ali 7 p.m., 420 Connecticut Street.

Community Yard Sale: 10 a.m.

– 3 p.m., 641 Masten Ave. Tables available $10 to $25; sponsors: Northland CUSHION Block Club & Lincoln UM Church; 884-7664 or 462-1080.

PRIMARY ELECTION CANDIDATES FORUM: 6 – 8 pm, Delaine Waring AME Church, Fellowship Hall, 680 Swan Street. hosted by the BuffaloNiagara Chapter, National Action Network (NAN) Khametic Ascendants: 9-10 a.m. & 12:30 a.m. (after midnight), public Access Channel 20.

The Durham Central City Baby Café: every Wednesday and Thursday 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. 200 E. Eagle in the Durham Outreach Center. Dinner is free!

Doris Gayles 885-6348.

Friday September 4 Debate for the Masten District Councilmember Candidates: St. Charles Hall, 317 Leroy Avenue in the rear of the FLARE Community Center 6-7 p.m. Hosted

by The Fillmore Leroy Area Residents, Inc.

Saturday September 5 Free Art Making Day at The Foundry, 298 Northampton Street (in the community!) is held every second Saturday of the month for all ages and all skill levels. Parents – come & watch your kids create or join in! For more information go to thefoundrybuffalo.org

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Challenger Community News • September 2, 2015

African American Cultural Center Yard Sale :10am - 3pm, 350 Masten Avenue, 884-2013.

National Buffalo Wing Festival: All Day, Coca Cola Field , Info buffalowing.com

see you at the EVENTS!

Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor :Museum Open House Days, 11 a.m., - 4 p.m. More info 716 259-8888 o

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

5:30 – 7:30 p.m. 200 E. Eagle, Outreach Center. Dinner free!

Doris Gayles 885-6348.

Sunday September 6

YOU DON’T EVEN HAVE TO SORT IT.

Black August Freedom School Know Your Rights Workshop: 3 p.m. at Frank Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Ave.

Put all of your recyclables in the green tote.

We’ll do the rest.

Monday September 7 Afrikan Consciousness Workshop: 6-7:45 p.m. Merriweather Library Jefferson @ E. Utica; every Monday; public invited.

Tuesday September 8 Pre Primary Rally & Fundraiser: The Committee To Elect Sharon Belton Cottman, Masten District Councilmember, 6-8 p.m., Mikes Lounge, 1343 Jefferson Ave. More info (716) 602-5877. “ We Beat Drums Not Each Other”: 5-7 p.m., African rhythms, history, culture & community fun; free for youth; 715-3727.

SEE YOU AT THE EVENTS!

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

MAYOR BYRON W. BROWN

CoB_Challenger.indd 2

Wednesday September 9 Buffalo Board of Education: Regular Board Meeting, 5:30 p.m. Buffalo Academy for Visual &Performing Arts, 450 Masten ave corner of East Ferry)

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: • 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.

H

Certain restrictions apply. Subject to credit and property approval. NMLS# 381076 ©2015 M&T Bank. Member FDIC.

Challenger: 5” x 5.5”

7/20/15 2:47 PM

Challenger Community News • September 2, 2015

Buff City Hoops Thanks

THANK YOU! Buff City Hoops basketball championship organizers led by founder, Legislator Betty Jean Grant, held a press conference last Friday on the eve of the championship games to receive and thank BAK USA for their generous donation of BAK Board Tablets for the games MVP’s.

Pictured above, Buff City Hoops representatives and BAK CEO JP Bak and the president of the company, his wife, Ulla Third Eye Photos

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